US President Joe Biden's political position may be under threat over his response to the conflict between Israel and Hamas, with less than a quarter of young voters approving of his approach.
According to The New York Times, young Americans, who played a critical role in Biden's previous electoral success, are active in political life, especially in light of the war in Gaza, which they interpret largely in terms of human rights. While they condemn Hamas' actions as war crimes, they seek a balanced U.S. position supporting both Israelis and Palestinians, and many perceive support for Israel as exacerbating Middle East tensions.
Polls show Biden's support among young voters is waning, with their interest shifting toward anti-establishment figures like Robert Kennedy Jr. and Cornel West. Despite the administration's efforts to address various issues such as student debt and the economy, many young voters remain skeptical of Biden's commitment to their values.
Social media has become a significant source of information about the war for young Americans, providing a stark and immediate view of the conflict, influencing their perceptions. Biden's position is becoming precarious ahead of the 2024 presidential campaign, especially in states with large numbers of young Arab American students.
The president's team must tread carefully to maintain support among young voters who seek bold leadership and progress toward peace and justice for all, including the prospect of a Palestinian state.