OPINION | Barry Richard: Democrats Disrespect Israel
As the official inauguration of the new U.S. Embassy in Jerusalem was getting underway this morning, there was one thing notably absent from the proceedings.
There were no members of the American Democrat party in attendance.
The Times Of Israel reports that a delegation of four U.S. Senators attended the inauguration as representatives of the United States. Among them was South Carolina's Lindsey Graham.
According to The Times, Graham told reporters support for American recognition of Jerusalem as Israel's capital has always been bi-partisan:
"I am disappointed that not one Democrat came. What does that say? It’s not for me to tell you what that says," he said. "It hurts me. Because I work across the aisle on a regular basis. I think it was a mistake because there’s too much going on in this region.”
For decades, politicians on the stump from both sides of the aisle have pledged to move the U.S. Embassy to Jerusalem. None have...until Donald Trump, that is.
This is an historic move that cements what has become in recent years a wobbly relationship with our staunchest of allies. It is wrong for the Democrats to play politics with such an important issue. Childish political games on the home front are one thing, but the pettiness and partisanship on the world stage have got to stop.
For Democrats to attend the Embassy opening would be to recognize Trump's diplomatic accomplishments. With visions of impeachment, Stormy Daniels and Russian collusion swirling around in their brains, I guess it is difficult o see things with any great clarity. Too bad.
Like with ending slavery, the Trump tax cut and repealing the terribly flawed Obamacare Democrats are once again on the wrong side of history.
Barry Richard is the host of The Barry Richard Show on 1420 WBSM New Bedford. He can be heard weekdays from noon to 3 p.m. Contact him at barry@wbsm.com and follow him on Twitter @BarryJRichard58. The opinions expressed in this commentary are solely those of the author.