Alan Dershowitz Switches to Republican Party Over Israel Stance

Attorney and Harvard Law School Professor Emeritus Alan Dershowitz announced his decision to register as a Republican on April 20, 2026, ending 67 years as a registered Democrat. In an op-ed for the Wall Street Journal, Dershowitz described the Democratic Party as the "most anti-Israel party in U.S. history," citing a recent Senate vote supporting a weapons embargo against Israel and the rhetoric of Michigan Senate candidate Abdul el-Sayed.

Dershowitz characterized the rise of the anti-Israel wing within the Democratic Party as a dangerous shift from the fringe to the mainstream. Despite this move, he stated he still strongly opposes Republican positions on healthcare, taxes, immigration, abortion, and the separation of church and state. He also acknowledged that the Republican Party has its own "antisemitic fringe," though he believes it remains a minority.

To prevent Democrats from gaining control of the House and Senate, Dershowitz pledged to contribute money to Republican candidates, campaign for them, and urge other pro-Israel Americans to change their party affiliation. The announcement drew mixed reactions; while some social media users mocked the switch, conservative activist Christopher Rufo suggested the political right has become a "dumping ground" for failed celebrities.