Like you, we have watched the horrifying events taking place in Israel with sadness in our hearts and concern for the many who have friends and loved ones in harm’s way. This senseless violence has shaken us to our core. 

It’s been heartening to see most members of Congress stand firmly in support of Israel as they push back against the devastating and cruel attack by Hamas terrorists on civilians last week. This week, 392 members of the House sent a clear message, backing a new bipartisan resolution supporting Israel in her fight.  

But while it’s clear that everyone wants to do the right thing, it’s also clear that Congress can’t actually do anything. Nearly a week into this conflict, the House remains without a speaker as House Republicans fail to rally behind any member who can garner the 217 votes needed to wield the speaker’s gavel. Without a speaker, the House can’t hold hearings, pass bills or do any of the people’s business. 

Just today, our No Labels Co-Chair Gov. Larry Hogan recommended a commonsense idea to get Congress out of this mess, speaking about the House Republican Conference, which has failed to vote for a new House speaker. Gov. Hogan wrote: "If the conference can’t get its act together, those actually interested in governing - Republican or Democrat - should come together to put forward a Republican they support. Failing to end this dysfunction is not an option at this dangerous moment." 

Meanwhile, the Senate has been unable or unwilling to confirm key national security nominees for the Biden administration. In a time when tensions are escalating in the Middle East, we find ourselves without ambassadors to Israel, Egypt, Oman or Kuwait. The void extends to crucial roles like the head of the State Department’s Bureau of Counterterrorism and the leader of USAID’s Bureau for the Middle East. Moreover, over 300 military leadership positions are unfilled, leaving major commands like the Navy, Air Force and U.S. Central Command in a lurch. 

The road ahead is rough. With Israel defending its very existence, it's imperative that America stands firmly alongside our ally. Our commitment can't waver. 

Simultaneously, the clock is ticking for Congress to pass a spending bill and steer the nation clear of another shutdown, now looming just 35 days away on Nov. 17. 

Amid this storm, No Labels’ mission is as vital as ever. We are urging Congress to shed the partisan shackles and prioritize the safety and stability of America and its allies in an increasingly dangerous world. We’re also continuing to make the case for why our effort to lay the groundwork for a Unity presidential ticket in 2024 is so important: Sen. Joe Lieberman just penned an op-ed for the Wall Street Journal detailing the latest in our effort.   

Today, as we see so much suffering taking place in Israel, we’re asking for you to consider donating to United Hatzalah, the Israeli national volunteer rescue service, whose first responders have been leading lifesaving operations to those impacted by this senseless violence. You can lend your support here. 

Thank you for doing what you can to ensure that those affected by this conflict can get the help they need. 

Margaret White
Co-Executive Director

P.S. If you haven't had a chance to view Sen. Lieberman's video addressing the concerning events in Israel, I encourage you to watch it here.