Rep. Ilhan Omar Facing New Challengers After Outspoken Stance Against Israel In Hamas War

Tim Peterson, an Air Force veteran, is a congressional candidate for the U.S. House in Minnesota’s Fifth District. He aims to address the impending issue of mass retirements of police officers in Minneapolis, which he considers an “existential” problem.

However, before delving into this matter, he feels the need to assert that Hamas is a “fascist organization.”

Sarah Gad, a vibrant attorney specializing in criminal defense who is also vying for the same position, holds a strong interest in reforming the criminal justice system. However, she readily admits that people are curious about her stance on the Gaza conflict.

Don Samuels, an additional contender, holds a wealth of experience serving the public as a former city council member in North Minneapolis, which he aims to highlight. He also acknowledged that a significant factor affecting the race is the ongoing Israel-Palestine conflict.

In the upcoming Democratic primary in August, these candidates are competing against Rep. Ilhan Omar (D-Minnesota), a prominent critic of Israel in Congress. However, it is expected that only one of them will receive substantial financial support from the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC), its super PAC and other pro-Israel allies.

These organizations are angered by the criticism of the Democratic left towards Israel following the attacks by Hamas on October 7 and the subsequent conflict in Gaza.

In a recent statement, Omer said, “Amid the horrifying carnage in Israel and Gaza, we have worked day and night to secure the evacuation of multiple constituents out of Israel and the Gaza Strip. We have worked with regional partners to press for the release of all hostages and are leading an international parliamentary push for a cease-fire.”