Nashville Councilmember files resolution denouncing Israel and U.S. over deaths in Gaza
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Metro Council is set to weigh a symbolic resolution condemning U.S. and Israeli actions in Gaza — a rare step into international politics for the local government.
Driving the news: Metro Councilmember Ginny Welsch wants her colleagues to vote on a resolution "denouncing all acts of the United States Government and the State of Israel that contribute to a continuation of the genocide of the Palestinian people."
- In the text of her resolution, Welsch lists the deaths of Palestinian children, medical workers and journalists as justification for her legislation.
- Welsch also condemns the United States for its role in sending financial aid to Israel's military.
Between the lines: Memorializing resolutions are symbolic votes. They might honor longtime city employees or celebrate church anniversaries, for instance.
Context: Metro Council jobs are nonpartisan and candidates don't have to pick a party in order to run. Most members skew liberal, and Welsch is among the most outspoken on that front.
Yes, but: Welsch's proposal has drawn quick rebukes from those who don't think Metro Council should tackle international politics, especially from conservative-leaning politicians.
- Welsch's resolution has also been criticized for its timing.
- This week marks the two-year anniversary of the Oct. 7 massacre by Hamas. Welsch filed her proposal on the eve of the Jewish holy day Yom Kippur.
What they're saying: Alice Rolli, a Republican who previously ran for mayor, bashed the memorializing resolution in a social media post.
- "I'm confident that no one is waiting for the Metro City Council to introduce a resolution to end this war," Rolli said.
- "If (Ms. Welsch) is interested in working on these issues, I'd encourage her to apply to work for the President or U.S. Department of State - or to run for Congress and serve on the Foreign Relations Committee."
What we're watching: A push to defer the legislation this week is likely.
- An amendment to the resolution from Councilmember Courtney Johnston, a Republican, says the council should not express "positions on distant or complex geopolitical matters where the local government has no direct role..."
Zoom out: President Trump has been pushing for Israel and Hamas to reach an agreement that ends the war. A centerpiece of negotiations involves Hamas releasing its hostages, Axios' Barak Ravid reports.