brooklynease: American corruption: Institutionalized and legalized.

Sharra,

The U.S. has long been a significant financial supporter of Israel's military endeavors. This support has intensified amid the current conflict in Gaza, with billions more being allocated to fund Israel's military operations. The American Friends Service Committee (AFSC) has identified at least 14 companies complicit in the war in Gaza. These companies have profited immensely from the conflict, with their stock prices increasing by an average of more than 23% since October 9, 2023.

Follow the Money: Campaign Contributions and Corporate Profits

The financial ties between these corporations and Congress members are extensive and troubling. These 14 companies have contributed at least $2.28 million to 20 of the 26 Democrats who signed a letter urging President Biden to continue weapons shipments to Israel despite the ongoing humanitarian crisis. Notably, $167,100 of these contributions were made after October 7, 2023, underscoring the immediacy and proximity of financial influence to policy decisions.

Among the top recipients of these contributions are Rep. Veasey (TX), Rep. Norcross (NJ), and Rep. Wasserman Schultz (FL), all of whom have accepted significant sums of money from AIPAC. This financial backing creates a clear conflict of interest, where the profit motives of defense contractors are prioritized over humanitarian concerns and ethical considerations.

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The Disconnect Between Elected Officials and Their Constituents

The influence of corporate money in politics starkly contrasts with the values and opinions of many Democratic voters. A March 2024 Gallup poll revealed that 75% of Democratic voters disapprove of Israeli military action in Gaza. A Data for Progress poll conducted in late April 2024 found that 83% of Democrats support a ceasefire and de-escalation of the conflict.

Despite these clear signals from their constituents, many representatives continue to support and even advocate for increased military aid to Israel. This disconnect raises serious questions about who these elected officials represent and underscores money's pervasive political influence.

A Call for Accountability and Change

As a candidate challenging incumbent Debbie Wasserman Schultz in Florida's 25th Congressional District, I am committed to addressing this corruption head-on. It's imperative to hold our representatives accountable and ensure they prioritize the will and welfare of their constituents over the interests of corporate donors.

We must push for greater transparency and stricter campaign contributions regulations to prevent the ethical breaches we see today. Moreover, we must advocate for a foreign policy prioritizing human rights and diplomacy over profit-driven militarism.

The genocide in Gaza is a stark reminder of the consequences of unchecked corporate influence in politics. It's time for a change—a change that reflects the values and voices of the people. Let's work together to end this institutionalized and legalized corruption cycle and build a future rooted in justice and peace.

Join our campaign as a volunteer, donate to expand our voter outreach, and, on election day, hold those who abuse their position of power accountable.

In Reason, Passion & Justice,

Jen