Michigan AG Dana Nessel skips Democratic convention over Israel fears

Key Points:

• Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel, who is Jewish, skipped the state's Democratic convention due to fears of being booed, harassed, or chased over her support for Israel amid rising antisemitism and party tensions related to the Israel-Hamas conflict.
• The Michigan Democratic Party implemented heightened security measures for the convention, including law enforcement presence and strict enforcement of a code of conduct, following a disruptive April gathering marked by clashes among delegates.
• Party leaders, including US Senate nominee Abdul El-Sayed who has criticized Israel, signed a letter warning against disruptive behavior, emphasizing unity and zero tolerance for harassment during the event.
• Jewish leaders in Michigan called on the party to ensure the safety of Jewish delegates and publicly condemn harassment, warning that intimidation of Jewish officials like Nessel could have broader consequences.
• El-Sayed, who narrowly leads in the Senate race, affirmed his commitment to Jewish safety following recent attacks on the Jewish community in Michigan, while also facing criticism for comments linking violence to broader cycles of hurt.