Heated Debate between Lawler and Jones on the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict
Contentious exchanges characterized a debate on Wednesday evening between Republican Representative Michael Lawler of New York and former Democratic Congressman Mondaire Jones, particularly regarding their differing beliefs concerning the Israeli-Palestinian issue.
Jones’ Call for a Two-State Resolution
During the debate aired by CBS News, Jones was questioned about his past support for a proposal that suggested Israel should return territories it acquired following its victorytrump-promised-big-plans-to-flip-black-and-latino-voters-many-republicans-are-waiting-to-see-them-2/” title=”Trump promised big plans to flip Black and Latino voters. Many Republicans are waiting to see them.”>york.news/2024/07/10/new-york-news/discover-the-ultimate-reading-list-top-100-books-of-the-21st-century/” title=”Discover the Ultimate Reading List: Top 100 Books of the 21st Century”>‌ over Arab nations in the 1967 war.
He emphasized the necessity of a “two-state solution” that includes a potential land exchange, asserting, “Part of that has to include a kind of land swap.”
Settlement Expansion and Dismantling Policies
Jones criticized settlement growth in the West Bank, stating that such actions under Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu are “inappropriate” and advocated for the dismantling of these settlements.
Lawler’s Strong Opposition
Lawler fiercely countered, asking, “Have you lost your senses? You’re discussing land exchanges?” He expressed his firm disapproval of any pressure on Israel to surrender territory.
He contended that a genuine two-state solution is unattainable unless Middle Eastern nations, particularly Saudi Arabia, formally acknowledge Israel’s existence. According to Lawler, it is only after achieving such recognition that discussions on a two-state resolution could proceed.
Political Rivalry in a Key District
The two candidates are vying for the congressional seat in New York’s 17th District, which encompasses Rockland and Putnam counties as well as portions of Westchester and Dutchess counties. This region is known for its significant Jewish and pro-Israel demographic.
Contention and Personal Attacks During the Debate
Throughout the one-hour debate, interruptions and barbs flew between Lawler and Jones, with both candidates resorting to name-calling.
Lawler labeled Jones a “socialist,” while Jones retaliated by referring to Lawler as a “mini-fascist.” Lawler elaborated, “If it resonates‍ like a socialist and votes accordingly, it’s a socialist,” aiming to frame Jones as an extremist from the left.
Both candidates were queried about comments from former Trump chief of staff John Kelly, who described Trump as a “fascist” who aspired to have military leadership reminiscent of “Hitler’s generals.”
Jones declared, “If it mirrors the speech patterns of a fascist and endorses someone like that for president… it’s a mini-fascist,” targeting Lawler for his support of Trump.
In response to Kelly’s remarks, Lawler stated that he would “condemn any commentary” that glorifies Hitler or fascist ideologies.
Jones condemned Lawler’s continued support for Trump, calling it “disgraceful.”
Background on the Candidates
Lawler is seeking re-election after defeating former Congressman Sean Patrick Maloney in 2022. Meanwhile, Jones, who initially won a seat in the 17th District in 2020, opted not to run for re-election due to redistricting that would have forced him to compete against Maloney. Instead, he contested in the 10th District, which includes lower Manhattan and brownstone Brooklyn, but was defeated in the Democratic primary by Congressman Dan Goldman. Now, he’s back to challenge Lawler for his former position.