Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel, the first Jewish person elected to the position, revealed during a recent roundtable with Jewish leaders that she will not attend the Michigan Democratic Party’s nominating convention scheduled for August 29, 2026. Nessel cited concerns for her safety and fears of harassment, including antisemitic attacks, as reasons for her decision.

"I feel like my presence isn’t going to be welcome," Nessel said, according to the Michigan Advance. "I don’t want to get booed off the stage, irrespective of what I’m saying. And I believe that if I go, that is what will happen because it’s been happening to me."

Nessel also expressed frustration that party leadership has neglected her concerns about the rise of antisemitism within the Democratic Party despite her reports of harassment by some members.

Jessica Alexander, chair of the Michigan Democratic Jewish Caucus, told Fox News Digital she respects Nessel's decision. While Alexander does not believe the Democratic Party itself is antisemitic, she acknowledged an increase in "anti-Jewish" attitudes among dissenters. She noted that anti-AIPAC rhetoric in current campaigns often serves as a dog whistle for classic antisemitic tropes.

A spokesperson for the Michigan Democratic Party told the Michigan Advance that the party rejects "antisemitism, Islamophobia, and all forms of hateful conduct" and is committed to "ensuring party-hosted events are safe and secure environments for all attendees" at the upcoming convention.

Nessel’s decision highlights ongoing tensions within the party regarding antisemitism and the safety of its members.

Sources