A Texas pastor is set to run for a seat in the US House that was previously held by a fellow Democrat who has decided not to seek re-election, as a result of their Senate bid. Pastor Frederick Haynes III, a prominent figure in Dallas, has gained national attention for his outspoken criticism of Israel's actions in Gaza and his support for progressive causes.
Haynes' stance on the Middle East conflict marks an apparent difference from that of his predecessor, Rep. Jasmine Crockett, who has faced criticism for her ties to Israel and her decision to attend a pro-Israel event as a first-term Congresswoman. While Haynes is running on ending US military aid to Israel, Crockett has taken a more nuanced approach, with some of her opponents criticizing her record on the issue.
The pastor's campaign has been endorsed by Justice Democrats, a progressive outfit that aims to support left-wing candidates in primaries across the country. This marks one of the group's first major endorsements in Texas and reflects their focus on building momentum for progressive candidates ahead of the 2024 midterm elections.
Haynes' background as a pastor and his community activism have made him a compelling figure for Justice Democrats, who see him as a potential game-changer in a primary that could go either way. The group's spokesperson has described Haynes as one of their top picks to win a seat in the House, citing his ability to connect with voters on issues such as racial justice and economic inequality.
Haynes' platform includes proposals for abolishing Immigration and Customs Enforcement, providing Medicare for All, and getting dark money out of elections. He has also called for banning congressional stock trading and rejecting corporate PAC money. The pastor's views on these issues reflect a more progressive stance than that of his predecessor, who had drawn criticism from some quarters for her support of Israel.
At 65 years old, Haynes defies the conventional wisdom that younger candidates are better positioned to win in an increasingly crowded Democratic primary field. Justice Democrats' endorsement marks a significant move by the group to challenge the status quo and push for more progressive candidates. As the battle for control of Congress heats up ahead of the 2024 midterms, this endorsement highlights the growing importance of grassroots activism on the left.
Haynes' stance on the Middle East conflict marks an apparent difference from that of his predecessor, Rep. Jasmine Crockett, who has faced criticism for her ties to Israel and her decision to attend a pro-Israel event as a first-term Congresswoman. While Haynes is running on ending US military aid to Israel, Crockett has taken a more nuanced approach, with some of her opponents criticizing her record on the issue.
The pastor's campaign has been endorsed by Justice Democrats, a progressive outfit that aims to support left-wing candidates in primaries across the country. This marks one of the group's first major endorsements in Texas and reflects their focus on building momentum for progressive candidates ahead of the 2024 midterm elections.
Haynes' background as a pastor and his community activism have made him a compelling figure for Justice Democrats, who see him as a potential game-changer in a primary that could go either way. The group's spokesperson has described Haynes as one of their top picks to win a seat in the House, citing his ability to connect with voters on issues such as racial justice and economic inequality.
Haynes' platform includes proposals for abolishing Immigration and Customs Enforcement, providing Medicare for All, and getting dark money out of elections. He has also called for banning congressional stock trading and rejecting corporate PAC money. The pastor's views on these issues reflect a more progressive stance than that of his predecessor, who had drawn criticism from some quarters for her support of Israel.
At 65 years old, Haynes defies the conventional wisdom that younger candidates are better positioned to win in an increasingly crowded Democratic primary field. Justice Democrats' endorsement marks a significant move by the group to challenge the status quo and push for more progressive candidates. As the battle for control of Congress heats up ahead of the 2024 midterms, this endorsement highlights the growing importance of grassroots activism on the left.