Democrats publicly supporting Israel for political reasons is nothing new. They just don’t usually post the explanation in campaign emails.

Meet Kate Marshall, Democratic nominee for Nevada’s 2nd congressional district. She’s facing an uphill battle in a district Republicans have historically win by somewhat comfortable margins. Apparently she decided that pandering on Israel would be politically helpful. And then she decided to blast that to every supporter, opponent, reporter, and political junkie in town.

Jon Ralston:

You don’t see this too often: A campaign puts out a statement by a candidate on an issue she has never talked about and then helpfully explains the political strategy at play at the end. But that’s what Kate Marshall’s congressional campaign did today, expressing strong support for Israel and then mistakenly leaving in a “background” note about why.

It’s priceless.

Indeed. Here’s the note that was attached to the email:

Background: Israel has been in the news lately, and will be even more in the news with Beck’s “Rally to Restore Courage” in Jerusalem. In an R district, it will be useful to express support for Israel and demonstrate some foreign policy prowess while it is a timely topic – especially for people who are likely paying attention to Beck’s event.

Yes, it’ll be “useful” to support Israel. Also, it’s the right thing to do. But hey, the Israelis surrounded by terrorists and enemies are certainly happy they can be used to advance your candidacy.

Also, Glenn Beck? Really? A Democratic candidate for Congress is strategizing her campaign around rallies held by a conservative talk show host in Jerusalem? That’s…uh…pathetic. Sad, really. But mostly pathetic.