In this episode of Hot Dogs and Hummus, we take a thoughtful, grounded look at the implications of President Trump’s return to office for US - Israel relations.

Joining me is Chris McCannell, who has worked at the top levels of American politics as a Chief of Staff to a prominent Democratic member of Congress and as Vice Chair of American Israel Public Affairs Committee's DC group. Chris brings a unique blend of personal experience and professional insight to this discussion, offering a steady voice at a time when many are feeling uncertainty.

We dive into the impacts of the election, acknowledging the concerns of those who worry about the direction of the U.S.-Israel relationship and the growing challenges of antisemitism. Through stories from his own life—from his early volunteer work in Israel to his high-level political roles in Washington, D.C.—Chris weaves an inspiring journey of dedication to Jewish life and to bipartisan support for Israel. Together, we reflect on the recent achievements in U.S.-Israel relations, such as the Abraham Accords and President Biden's steady support in Israel's darkest hours after the October 7 massacre, and explore how this bipartisan bond can endure through changing administrations.

This episode is a reminder that, despite political shifts, the U.S.-Israel relationship remains deeply rooted. Join us for an insightful, reassuring conversation on how we can each play a role in supporting and strengthening this vital connection.

Episode Highlights [0:04] – Introduction and addressing the concerns around the recent election results [6:50] – Chris’s journey from volunteer in Israel to Capitol Hill advocate for bipartisan support [12:45] – The Abraham Accords, U.S.-Israel diplomacy, and the promise of bipartisan cooperation [18:30] – Confronting the rise of antisemitism and the importance of solidarity [25:15] – Trump’s return: exploring global alliances and potential policy shifts [32:10] – Closing thoughts on the enduring strength of U.S.-Israel relations

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