Dissatisfaction with both presidential candidates is an American tradition at this point and 2024 has been an incredibly close race. If Harris is going to win, she needs support not just from those to the right of her, but those who are further left as well. This article is going to be aimed at a very niche but vocal audience; those who will not vote for Harris because of her policy on the genocide in Gaza. I will try to convince you to vote for her anyway. 

To start, I do not feel the need to justify my use of the word genocide. It should be called what it is. Anyone refusing to describe it as such has not been convinced by the civilian death toll and they certainly will not be convinced by me. Secondly, I will not entertain the idea that Trump would do any better since I do not think this is a popular opinion on the left. Finally, I will briefly explain why being anti-Israel is not antisemitic. Due to President Nwosu’s comments last year implying that the “Free Palestine” graffiti is hate speech and other similar sentiments, I want to make it clear what I am saying and what I am not. Jewish students should always feel safe at Oswego and bigotry against them is real. Any comments or antisemitic conspiracies attempting to demonize them are abhorrent. Anyone supporting Palestine out of bigotry toward Jews rather than compassion for other human lives is completely unwelcome. I should also state that being Jewish does not mean being pro-Israel; to state that it does is condescending.

Now, why vote for Harris if she is part of the administration actively supporting Israel’s genocide? Because, one of the two main candidates will win the presidency. Another Trump term would mean the demolition of trans rights, less access to abortion, voter

Suppression and  the continued normalization of hateful rhetoric. Harris is incredibly progressive in comparison and could have a very positive influence on these issues. No matter who is in office, the conflict will continue with American weapons. So I get it, voting for Harris hurts and it can feel hopeless. But if you prefer her over Trump, the only reason not to vote, or to cast your ballot into the void that is a third party candidate, is vanity. But protecting your sense of purity will do nothing. Your money will continue to go to killing Palestinians. The truth is that if you are an American who pays taxes, you do not have a choice. It is not righteous or radical to risk another Trump presidency, risk people in marginalized groups because you do not want your hands dirty. 

So get out and support further left candidates in the primary, vote in local elections, join a movement and do everything you can regardless of who wins in November.

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