Problem Solvers Caucus Formally Supports Bipartisan Resolution Opposing Global BDS Movement and Supporting Two-State Solution
Problem Solvers Caucus Formally Supports Bipartisan Resolution Opposing Global BDS Movement and Supporting Two-State Solution
Problem Solvers Caucus Action Shows Strong, Bipartisan Support for the U.S.-Israel Relationship
WASHINGTON — Today, the Problem Solvers Caucus, Co-Chaired by Congressmen Josh Gottheimer (NJ-05) and Tom Reed (NY-23), voted to formally endorse H. Res. 246, a bipartisan resolution opposing the Global Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions (BDS) Movement targeting Israel. The Caucus’ action, spearheaded by Congressmen Brad Schneider (IL-10) and Steve Watkins (KS-02), unites Democratic and Republican Caucus members behind the effort to denounce the boycott of Israel, and support a two-state solution.
“BDS is anti-Israel, anti-peace, and harmful to America’s interests. I’m proud that all members of the Problem Solvers Caucus are committed to opposing BDS and standing up for the U.S.-Israel relationship because these should not be partisan political issues. Thanks to the leadership of Congressmen Brad Schneider and Steve Watkins, this bipartisan resolution has even more momentum for a vote on the House Floor,” said Congressman Josh Gottheimer (NJ-05), Co-Chair of the bipartisan Problem Solvers Caucus.
“Israel is an unwavering ally of the United States and one of our most important strategic partners around the globe,” Congressman Tom Reed, Co-Chair of the bipartisan Problem Solvers Caucus said. “I am proud of our Problem Solvers Caucus members who have to stood up to ensure Jewish people are treated fairly and spoken out to show we care about this great nation.”
“This resolution makes clear that Congress continues to support preserving a path to a negotiated two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict with two peoples living side-by-side in peace, security and prosperity. Towards that end, we also oppose the Global BDS Movement, which seeks to delegitimize the state of Israel by denying the Jewish people’s claim to a homeland,” said Congressman Brad Schneider (IL-10), lead sponsor of H. Res. 246. “I appreciate the support of the bipartisan Problem Solvers Caucus for this resolution and stand with my colleagues against efforts to push further out of reach a two-state solution and peace for both Israel and the Palestinians.”
“At a time when anti-Semitic rhetoric and actions are on the rise across the world, I am pleased to see Republicans and Democrats of the Problem Solvers Caucus coming together to endorse this important resolution,” Congressman Steve Watkins said. “The BDS movement only serves to harm and divide communities. As Americans, we must do all we can to protect Israeli sovereignty and their right to exist as a free and democratic people.”
“As a Jewish veteran in Congress, it’s appalling that some see a boycott of Israel as a worthy policy aim,” Congresswoman Elaine Luria said. “A good relationship between America and Israel strengthens both nations. The BDS movement is nothing short of extreme and unnecessary, and undermines the prospects for peace.”
“Republicans and Democrats can both agree that any efforts to delegitimize the state of Israel must be condemned,” said Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick. “I am proud to join members of the Problem Solvers Caucus in strongly supporting this resolution to express our shared support for Israel and opposition to the deeply misguided BDS movement.”
“I believe deeply in Israel’s right to exist, the need for a safe and secure Jewish state, and a two-state solution that affords peace and security to Israelis and Palestinians alike,” said Congressman Dean Phillips. “I support this resolution because the BDS movement is damaging to each of those principles.”
“I am and always will be a strong supporter of Israel as they are our closest ally in the Middle East. I wholeheartedly support this resolution condemning the Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement because threatening Israel’s security with economic attacks is both wrong and detrimental to future peace negotiations,” said Congressman Pete Stauber. “I look forward to Congress doing the right thing and showing strong bipartisan support for this resolution.”
“We need real, lasting peace in the Middle East and I will not waiver in my strong support for the security of Israel and its people,” Congressman Max Rose said. “I believe the BDS movement only seeks to further divide and push us further from that goal, which is why I’m proud to support this resolution.”
“The BDS Movement delegitimizes the state of Israel and pushes peace further out of reach,” said Congressman Joe Cunningham. “Congress should reaffirm its support of a two-state solution and support this bipartisan anti-BDS resolution.”
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