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Democratic newcomers challenge pro-Israel status quo

Three Democratic candidates willing to challenge the bipartisan orthodoxy on Israel are likely to win seats in Congress next year.
NEW YORK, NY - JUNE 26: Progressive challenger Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez celebrartes with supporters at a victory party in the Bronx after upsetting incumbent Democratic Representative Joseph Crowly on June 26, 2018 in New York City.  Ocasio-Cortez upset Rep. Joseph Crowley in New York’s 14th Congressional District, which includes parts of the Bronx and Queens. (Photo by Scott Heins/Getty Images)

Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez called the Israeli military’s killing of Gaza protesters a “massacre.” Ilhan Omar has referred to Israel as the “apartheid Israeli regime.” And Rashida Tlaib would be the first Democrat in Congress to explicitly reject a two-state solution in favor of a one-state solution.

Their willingness to challenge bipartisan orthodoxy has put them on a collision course with Democratic leaders as the Donald Trump administration tilts US policy ever further in favor of Israel.

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