Colorado Democrats on Monday rejected a resolution calling for a cease-fire in Gaza and condemning the “disproportionate military response by Israel” to the Oct. 7 Hamas attack that killed 1,200 people — all familiar talking points raised in other avenues by activists seeking an immediate end to hostilities.   

In addition, the resolution condemned Hamas for the attack that sparked the war and said the group, labeled as a terrorist organization by the U.S., must be dismantled. The resolution did not identify the mechanisms to achieve those two ends.     

The state party’s central committee met virtually on Monday and voted against the proposal. Colorado Public Radio reported that it garnered only 40% support, while 55% voted against it. The rest of the central committee abstained. 

There were more than 300 people in attendance.

The resolution’s rejection came less than a week after two of the party’s most prominent pro-Palestinian lawmakers suffered decisive defeats at the ballot box last Tuesday. Rep. Tim Hernández lost to Cecelia Espenoza in the Democratic primary for House District 4, while challenger Sean Camacho defeated Rep. Elisabeth Epps in the Democratic race in House District 6.    

Last year, Hernández drew criticism and faced backlash after attending a rally in support of Palestinians shortly after Hamas launched the surprise attack and kidnapped about 250 people. Hernandez lost to Cecelia Espenoza in the Democratic primary for House District 4.

Meanwhile, House Speaker Julie McCluskie reprimanded Epps for joining a pro-Palestinian protest in the House gallery and disrupting official proceedings in November.

A statement released by acting Jewish Community Relations Council director Matt Most thanked leaders for speaking out against the resolution:

Thank you to the leaders across Colorado who stood up and stood strong tonight against the ceasefire resolution before the Colorado Democratic Party. While we were disappointed that the divisive resolution was brought forth initially, we are encouraged by the fact that it was handily defeated by the State Central Committee with only 40% of members supporting. 

Jewish legislators, non-Jewish allies, and leaders across Colorado spoke passionately against the resolution, and we are incredibly grateful to all who took the time to contact friends, neighbors, and elected officials to ensure this outcome. We hope this can lead to a deeper balanced conversation about Israel, Gaza and the safety of our community, as well as a renewed commitment for our Jewish Community to engage in Colorado politics. 

The Jewish Community Relations Council and its community partners sincerely appreciate the audience provided by the Colorado Democratic Party leadership, especially Chairman Shad Murib, who listened to our objections and our point of view, and we look forward to working with him and the Democratic Party to deepen our relationship and mutual understanding in the future.

These outcomes are the result of enormous effort by a team of community volunteers and advocacy professionals. We are grateful to all our partners and supporters who have risen to this challenge.

The Democratic Party did not return a request for comment, but Colorado Public Radio quoted Rep. Judy Amabile as saying the resolution is “divisive,” while Lake County Democrats Chair Christian Luna-Leal insisted “most voters” support the resolution.

The resolution urged President Joe Biden and the U.S. Congress to use their leverage to “bring about a permanent end to hostilities and take concrete steps towards a two-state solution.”