Like many Vermonters, I have been horrified by the October 7 terrorist attack and hostage-taking by Hamas, and the devastating loss of life and destruction that Israel’s response has meant for Gaza. The disturbing recent shooting of three Palestinian Americans here in our state brought this conflict to our doorstep.

All Vermont Democrats condemn the tide of anti-Semitism and Islamophobia that are on the rise across this country. We are a party that has no space for political violence or hatred.

As Chair of the Vermont Democratic Party, the actions and work of our Democratic Congressional delegation give me solace and hope. As Chair, I applaud Senator Sanders’s recent work on a resolution to ensure oversight over potential human rights violations, particularly in Gaza. Though the resolution did not pass, it essentially sought to ensure that U.S. military aid did not violate the Leahy Law, which forbids lethal aid to countries engaged in “gross violations of human rights.”

I am equally proud that Senator Peter Welch and Congresswoman Becca Balint have unequivocally called for a cessation of the violence, which Senator Welch has described as “intolerable.” Congresswoman Balint called for “an end to this horrific violence and suffering.”

The Vermont Democratic Party is composed of a diverse coalition of Vermonters. Through many profound conversations I can say with confidence that Vermont Democrats desire the swift and safe return of all hostages, an end to the violence, immediate humanitarian aid to those suffering in Gaza, and meaningful negotiations to achieve a lasting and secure peace for both Israelis and Palestinians.