Delegate Supports BDS Resolution in Pittsburgh

Morgan Overton, a Pennsylvania delegate for Kamala Harris at the upcoming Democratic National Convention, is at the center of a political controversy after signing a petition that could place a Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) measure on the November ballot. Overton, who is also a member of Governor Josh Shapiro's advisory council for women and a board member of Planned Parenthood Western Pennsylvania, expressed her enthusiasm for supporting Harris in Chicago while remaining silent on the implications of the BDS measure. The proposed BDS measure has raised concerns among local Jewish groups and synagogues, which could face the loss of tax-exempt status and security funding. Additionally, the measure threatens to impact Pittsburgh's hospital system, a major employer in the region with significant revenue. The hospital's Global Care program has previously facilitated critical medical procedures for international patients, highlighting the potential consequences of the BDS initiative. Support for the petition has grown, with numerous public officials, including Allegheny County councilwoman Bethany Hallam and over 70 members of the Allegheny County Democratic Committee, adding their names. The Pittsburgh Democratic Socialists of America claim that a recent poll indicates 63 percent of residents support the initiative, which has already surpassed the required 12,000 signatures for ballot placement. In response to the growing controversy, local Jewish leaders have expressed disappointment over the political backing for the measure, while legal challenges are being prepared against it. The campaigns of prominent politicians, including Senator Bob Casey, have not commented on the situation as Harris prepares for her visit to Pittsburgh this weekend.