Dov Hikind, a prominent figure in New York politics and Jewish advocacy, has announced his departure from the Democratic Party after decades of affiliation. He is now a registered Republican, citing the Democratic Party's increasing radicalization and abandonment of Jewish and Israeli interests as his primary reasons for switching.

Hikind, who served 36 years in the New York State Assembly and founded Americans Against Antisemitism, shared his decision on social media, expressing his disillusionment with the Democrats' shift away from moderate and conservative values. He stated that the party no longer welcomes those who hold such viewpoints and criticized the Biden administration's policies toward Israel.

This move comes amidst rising tensions surrounding recent comments by progressive Democrats regarding Israel. Hikind's announcement coincided with Israeli President Isaac Herzog's address to Congress, which some progressive Democrats boycotted. Herzog's speech included a condemnation of antisemitism and a defense of Israel's right to exist, implicitly addressing recent criticisms from within the Democratic Party.

Hikind's switch follows a trend of Democratic lawmakers at both the state and national level changing their party affiliation. He joins others who have expressed concerns about the direction of the Democratic Party and its stance on key issues. This shift underscores a growing political realignment and reflects broader debates within the American political landscape.