US Senate candidate causes concern in Jewish community over Israel comments

US Senate candidate Troy Jackson, a long-time Maine state lawmaker, has recently adopted strong positions on Israel, describing its actions in Gaza as "genocide" and vowing to end US military aid. He stated, "Anybody with eyes and a heart knows the Israeli government is committing genocide in Gaza." Jackson also pledged to reject money from AIPAC, a pro-Israel lobby. These new stances, emerging as he is likely to secure the Democratic nomination for a US Senate seat, have caused concern among some Maine Jews who question whether his views are deeply held or a strategic move to attract supporters of a former candidate. Other Jewish residents, however, view him as a pragmatic choice given his extensive political background.