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Articles by Matthew Kassel
Search ArticlesTigran Hamasyan: Interview With A Jazz Pianist
I met Tigran Hamasyan at a Montreal Starbucks hours before his solo piano show at L’Astral on February 11th. He exuded a quiet composure, his thoughtful answers offering a counterpoint to my sometimes-erratic questioning. While I’ve interviewed jazz musicians between sets, gleaning insights fueled by the energy of performance, this pre-show conversation held a different weight. It was grounded in anticipation rather than reflection. I did see him perform that night, though.
Schiff’s likely House successor vows to continue his pro-Israel legacy, from a progressive perch
JC Olivera/Getty Images for the National Wildlife Federation's #SaveLACougars Campaign As an active member of California’s Legislative Jewish Caucus, Laura Friedman, a progressive assemblywoman who recently won a crowded Democratic primary to succeed outgoing Rep. Adam Schiff (D-CA), has long been involved in efforts to counter rising antisemitism across the state.
Rep. Summer Lee’s campaign removes Casey endorsement from website
A subtle change to Rep. Summer Lee’s (D-PA) campaign site in recent days suggests a possible tension with one of her top supporters, Sen. Bob Casey (D-PA), as the two incumbents gear up for tough reelections. Within the past week, Lee, a freshman Squad member, appears to have removed Casey’s name from an obscure section of her website that is used to communicate messaging instructions to outside groups prohibited from directly coordinating with campaigns.
Ohio Senate primary a clash between two different GOP foreign policy visions
As the closely watched Republican Senate primary in Ohio determining the challenger to Sen. Sherrod Brown (D-OH) enters its final stretch, two leading rivals who represent opposing ideological factions within the GOP are locked in an increasingly tight race for the nomination.
Is Politico rebelling against Axel Springer’s Israel policy?
The ongoing Israel-Hamas war is casting a spotlight on latent editorial tensions between Politico and its parent company, the German publishing giant Axel Springer, whose unique mission statement has long promoted unwavering support for the Jewish state. In recent months, however, the tenor of Politico’s coverage has tacitly challenged that commitment, a review of stories published over the course of the war indicates.
All about Eve, the Orioles front-office trailblazer
Since before she can even remember, Eve Rosenbaum, the assistant general manager of the Baltimore Orioles, has been faithfully committed to her hometown baseball team, having attended her first game at Memorial Stadium in 1990, when she was just 9 weeks old. Like many long-suffering Orioles fans, however, Rosenbaum, 34, has never seen her team win the World Series or even advance to the championship.
All about Eve, the Orioles front-office trailblazer
Since before she can even remember, Eve Rosenbaum, the assistant general manager of the Baltimore Orioles, has been faithfully committed to her hometown baseball team, having attended her first Orioles game at Memorial Stadium in 1990, when she was just 9 weeks old. Like many long-suffering Baltimore baseball fans, however, Rosenbaum, 34, has never seen her team win the World Series or even advance to the championship.
Pittsburgh-area rabbis sign open letter denouncing Rep. Summer Lee over anti-Israel rhetoric Original
More than 40 rabbis and cantors in the Pittsburgh area have signed on to an open letter voicing their continued disappointment with Rep.
In Silicon Valley House race, leading Democratic candidates reflect party's fault lines on Israel-Hamas war
Dai Sugano/MediaNews Group/The Mercury News via Getty Images Eleven candidates are on the ballot in Tuesday’s primary election for a safely Democratic Silicon Valley House seat long held by Rep. Anna Eshoo (D-CA), who is retiring at the end of her current term.
John Avlon pivots from punditry to politics
Jason Mendez/Getty Images John Avlon, a former longtime editor and CNN commentator, has recently found himself in an unfamiliar role as he sits for interviews to discuss his new campaign to flip a Republican-held swing seat on Long Island. The moderate Democrat, who jumped into the primary in New York’s 1st Congressional District last week, has long been involved in politics, albeit mostly behind the scenes.
Updated New York map ensures Latimer has fighting chance to oust Bowman
The Democratic-led New York Legislature unveiled a proposed House map on Tuesday that locks in the showdown between Rep. Jamaal Bowman (D-NY) and George Latimer, the Westchester County executive who is mounting a well-funded primary challenge in one of the most hotly anticipated races of the 2024 election cycle.
Rep. Summer Lee headlines CAIR fundraising banquet, alongside speakers with antisemitic history
Rep. Summer Lee (D-PA) is scheduled to give remarks at a fundraising banquet for a leading Muslim advocacy group on Saturday alongside several speakers who have made antisemitic and homophobic comments. The freshman Squad member, a vocal critic of Israel who represents the Pittsburgh area, is among four speakers invited to appear at an event this weekend hosted by the Philadelphia branch of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), according to an online flier.
Top Nikki Haley official: The GOP is going through ‘a midlife crisis’
Nikki Haley’s defiant pledge to continue her campaign after Saturday’s primary in her home state of South Carolina, where she faces a likely defeat to former President Donald Trump, was just the latest demonstration of her estrangement from the ascendant populism now dominating Republican politics.
Rep. Andy Kim keeps his distance from some progressive backers
In the first New Jersey Senate debate on Sunday night, the two leading Democratic candidates, Rep. Andy Kim (D-NJ) and First Lady Tammy Murphy, each spoke briefly on the Israel-Hamas war, reiterating their commitment to immediately freeing the hostages and voicing concerns over the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
Updated New York Congressional map ensures Bowman-Latimer showdown
A proposed New York congressional map unveiled on Thursday would deliver a modest boost to Democrats seeking to retake the majority, while making no changes to the district of a vulnerable anti-Israel incumbent facing a serious primary threat. While the new congressional lines kept most districts across the state relatively unchanged, the lack of revisions to the seat held by Rep.
Rep. Dutch Ruppersberger’s leading successor running as pro-Israel moderate
As one of Maryland’s veteran House members, Rep. Dutch Ruppersberger (D-MD), prepares to retire at the end of his current term, his likely successor is vowing to uphold the congressman’s long-standing commitment to supporting Israel in Congress, where Democratic divisions over Middle East policy have sharpened in the wake of Hamas Oct. 7 attack.
Pro-Israel groups ally against Dave Min in contentious California primary
Democratic Majority for Israel is wading into an increasingly contentious House race for an open swing seat in California, endorsing Joanna Weiss over the other top Democrat, Dave Min, who is also facing opposition from a separate pro-Israel group that recently made an unexpected entry into the primary. DMFI’s political arm announced on Thursday that it was backing Weiss, an attorney and activist, in its first round of non-incumbent endorsements for the 2024 election cycle.
AIPAC-affiliated attack ads raise questions over Israel policy in California House race
Marking its first independent expenditure of the 2024 election cycle, the super PAC affiliated with AIPAC is targeting a California state senator, Dave Min, who is one the top Democratic candidates in an increasingly nasty House race for an open swing seat in Orange County. On Tuesday, United Democracy Project, a leading pro-Israel super PAC, kicked off a $600,000 TV ad buy hitting Min for a DUI arrest last May, Patrick Dorton, a spokesperson for the group, confirmed to Jewish Insider.
Noa Tishby, Emmanuel Acho to publish ‘Uncomfortable Conversations with a Jew’ in April
Noa Tishby, Israel’s former special envoy for combating antisemitism and the author of a popular explainer on Israel, is releasing a new book in April, Uncomfortable Conversations with a Jew, co-written with Emmanuel Acho, a Fox Sports analyst and former NFL linebacker. The title riffs on Acho’s digital video series, “Uncomfortable Conversations with a Black Man,” which became the subject of two best-selling books.
Tom Suozzi and Mazi Pilip focus on Jewish outreach as special election nears
With early voting now underway in the special House election to replace former Rep. George Santos (R-NY), the two candidates and their allies are boosting efforts to mobilize Jewish voters who represent a crucial coalition that could help decide the outcome of what is expected to be a close race. While much of the messaging — and outside spending — has turned on border security and abortion rights in advance of the Feb. 13 election between Mazi Pilip and former Rep.
Pro-Israel groups assess foreign policy credibility of Arizona Democratic congressional contenders
As an open-seat House race in Phoenix has coalesced around two upstart progressives, the ongoing war in Gaza is fueling curiosity about their views on the conflict — which pro-Israel groups are closely scrutinizing for points of contrast that could invite outside engagement.
Squad under fire: Two anti-Israel lawmakers facing career-threatening scandals
Two of the most high-profile left-wing lawmakers are facing existential political threats in their home districts — fueled by major new controversies that have further imperiled their chances for reelection. Reps. Jamaal Bowman (D-NY) and Cori Bush (D-MO), leading members of the far-left Squad, independently came under intense scrutiny this week amid twin scandals that underscored their increased vulnerability as each braces for a tough primary fight against a well-funded challenger.
Report: The Justice Department is conducting a criminal probe into Cori Bush
The Justice Department is conducting a criminal investigation into Rep. Cori Bush (D-MO) over alleged issues surrounding her handling of federal security funding, Punchbowl News first reported on Tuesday. The department has issued a subpoena to the House sergeant-at-arms requesting records related to Bush’s Members’ Representational Allowance, according to Punchbowl, citing six confidential sources.
J Street rescinds endorsement of Jamaal Bowman over anti-Israel rhetoric
J Street, the progressive Israel advocacy group, said on Friday that it had rescinded its endorsement of Rep. Jamaal Bowman (D-NY) over his increasingly inflammatory rhetoric on the war in Gaza, crediting the decision to growing concerns that his comments have gone too far.
AIPAC endorses Latimer in bid to unseat Bowman
In its first endorsement of a non-incumbent this election cycle, AIPAC’s political action committee is backing Westchester County Executive George Latimer, a formidable primary challenger to Rep. Jamaal Bowman (D-NY) in the northern suburbs of New York City, a spokesperson for the pro-Israel group confirmed to Jewish Insider on Wednesday.
Bowman denies being aware of Finkelstein’s ‘reprehensible’ views in apology, even as author expressed them during panel discussion
Facing backlash from Jewish leaders, Rep. Jamaal Bowman (D-NY) apologized on Saturday for praising a controversial anti-Israel scholar who has celebrated Hamas’ Oct. 7 terror attacks, saying he “had seen a few interviews but was unaware of Norman Finkelstein’s completely reprehensible comments before” they appeared together at a recent panel discussion on the Israel-Hamas war. “And when he made comments on Oct.
'The Hill''s online show, 'Rising,' falls prey to host's anti-Israel commentary
“Rising,” a popular online morning news and opinion show produced by The Hill, has long promoted itself as a unique forum for heterodox debate not seen on other mainstream broadcasts, with two leading co-hosts from opposing ends of the political spectrum facing off on any number of hot-button issues. The program, launched in 2018, has occasionally drawn scrutiny as an evolving cast of outspoken hosts on the populist left and right have courted controversy for amplifying fringe views.
Palantir convenes high-level gathering in Davos to support Israeli hostages
The software giant Palantir hosted a high-level gathering on Wednesday at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, with family members of Israeli hostages held in Gaza as well as freed Israeli captives, who described their experiences in searing detail and urged attendees to show support for the remaining abductees.
DMFI PAC endorses Adam Schiff in California Senate race
Democratic Majority for Israel’s political arm, DMFI PAC, is endorsing Rep. Adam Schiff (D-CA) in California’s closely contested Senate primary, extending a key line of national support with just under two months until the March 5 election.
Washington Post under fire for repeated anti-Israel bias, systemic sloppiness in Middle East coverage
As leading mainstream news outlets continue to navigate the pitfalls of covering the Israel-Hamas war, The Washington Post is facing particularly intense scrutiny over a growing number of issues connected to its reporting on the conflict, fueling mounting concerns among Jewish leaders, foreign policy experts and even some staffers, among other critics.
Harvard controversy casts spotlight on Penny Pritzker, former Obama official atop university board
Even as Harvard continues to stand behind its embattled president, Claudine Gay, amid mounting backlash over her handling of campus antisemitism and new accusations of plagiarism, Penny Pritzker, who helms the university’s highest governing body, has so far remained conspicuously silent, drawing fresh scrutiny to her role atop the administration.
Mazi Melesa Pilip discusses her policy platform in pivotal special election
In the special election to replace recently expelled Rep. George Santos (R-NY), Republican leaders have pinned their hopes on Mazi Melesa Pilip, an Ethiopian-born Jewish county legislator and Israel Defense Forces veteran who is now preparing for a high-stakes battle against a formidable Democratic opponent.
Tom Suozzi argues he’ll be a Democratic bulwark against the hard left in Congress
Photo by Craig Ruttle-Pool/Getty Images While in Congress, former Rep. Tom Suozzi (D-NY), who is now seeking to reclaim his old seat in the special election to replace ousted Rep. George Santos (R-NY), liked to boast that he was among the most reliable non-Jewish Democratic votes on legislation supporting Israel.
Long Island GOP taps Mazi Melesa Pilip for special election
Following an intensive search, New York Republicans on Thursday chose Mazi Melesa Pilip, an Ethiopian-born county legislator and Israel Defense Forces veteran, to run for the seat recently vacated by expelled Rep. George Santos (R-NY), according to a source familiar with the matter. The selection, which withstood a rigorous vetting process that included several prospective candidates, sets the stage for a closely watched race against former Rep.
Bowman’s censure adds to his political headaches back home
The backlash over Rep. Jamaal Bowman’s (D-NY) decision to trigger a false fire alarm in a House building in September, a misdemeanor to which he pleaded guilty, was always expected to be an issue in his campaign for reelection, where he is facing a formidable challenge from Westchester County Executive George Latimer, who officially entered the race this week.
As Latimer challenges Bowman, observers see a 'battle royale' over Israel
Westchester County Executive George Latimer formally announced on Wednesday morning that he will mount a primary challenge to Rep. Jamaal Bowman (D-NY) in the northern suburbs of New York City, ending months of speculation over his plans for the hotly anticipated congressional race.
Jayapal sister’s congressional candidacy alarming Portland Jewish leaders
Pro-Israel activists in Portland, Ore., are bracing for what could be a bitterly divided House race as longtime Rep. Earl Blumenauer (D-OR) prepares to retire at the end of his current term, opening up a rare vacancy in one of the state’s most progressive districts. The Democratic primary field, which is expected to grow in the coming weeks, has so far drawn two candidates, most prominently Susheela Jayapal, a former Multnomah County commissioner whose younger sister, Rep.
Javier Milei, Argentina’s president-elect, makes surprise visit to Lubavitcher Rebbe’s grave
Javier Milei, Argentina’s philosemitic president-elect, made a surprise visit to the Lubavitcher Rebbe’s gravesite in New York City on Monday morning, marking his first trip abroad since he claimed victory last week.
The Washington Post accused of anti-Israel bias in its war coverage
The Washington Post has faced mounting scrutiny in recent days from Jewish leaders and foreign policy experts for its coverage of the Israel-Hamas war, raising questions over the paper’s editorial direction as it continues to report aggressively on the evolving conflict.
GW fundraiser in New York turns heated over campus antisemitism
The George Washington University held a major fundraiser in New York City last Thursday that “went absolutely off the rails,” according to an attendee, when the school’s president, Ellen Granberg, was confronted by several participants who accused the administration of not doing enough to counter rising antisemitism on campus.
Republican presidential contenders share mixed reactions to Musk’s endorsement of antisemitic post
Republican presidential candidates are sharing mixed reactions to Elon Musk’s endorsement of an antisemitic conspiracy theory, with some condemning the billionaire X owner, others dodging the controversy and at least one defending his comments. During an appearance on CNN’s “State of the Union” on Sunday morning, Gov.
North Carolina Democrats reject Jewish caucus, face bipartisan rebuke
In an unusually forceful intra-party rebuke, several top Democratic lawmakers in North Carolina are speaking out against the state Democratic Party amid widespread backlash over its controversial decision to reject an application from a recently created Jewish caucus seeking formal affiliation.
Tammy Murphy kicks off campaign for Senate in New Jersey
Tammy Murphy, the first lady of New Jersey, launched her campaign to replace embattled Sen. Bob Menendez (D-NJ) on Wednesday, setting the stage for a competitive primary that now includes two formidable challengers.
Obama divides Democrats by reinserting himself in the debate over Israel
In recent weeks, former President Barack Obama has reemerged as a high-profile critic of the war between Israel and Hamas, issuing a series of increasingly pointed statements that have drawn scrutiny from pro-Israel leaders and other officials in Washington.
Don Samuels announces rematch against Ilhan Omar
Don Samuels, a former Minneapolis councilman who nearly unseated Rep. Ilhan Omar (D-MN) last cycle, announced on Sunday that he is seeking a rematch in next year’s August primary election. The new challenge from Samuels, who came within just 2,500 votes of defeating Omar in 2022, sets up a hotly contested race for the nomination in Minnesota’s 5th Congressional District, where two lesser-known rivals have also launched campaigns in recent months.
George Latimer expected to launch challenge to Bowman in coming weeks
Following months of indecision, Westchester County Executive George Latimer is expected to launch a highly anticipated primary challenge to Rep. Jamaal Bowman (D-NY) in the next few weeks, multiple sources confirmed to Jewish Insider on Wednesday. An announcement from Latimer, a veteran Democrat who is well-known to voters across Westchester, would come as Bowman has faced mounting backlash over his positions on the Israel-Hamas war — which have angered Jewish constituents in his district.
Bowman receives chilly reception from Jewish constituents at tense meeting
Rep. Jamaal Bowman’s (D-NY) last-minute effort to meet with Jewish constituents amid growing concerns over his approach to the Israel-Hamas conflict — not to mention a looming primary threat — got off to a rocky start on Monday morning.
United Democracy Project super PAC targets Lee, Bowman, Massie over anti-Israel votes
This article was first published on Jewish Insider. In its first major investment of the primary cycle, United Democracy Project, a pro-Israel super PAC affiliated with AIPAC, is now running a series of attack ads hitting two left-wing House members as well as a GOP congressman over their stances on the Israel-Hamas conflict. The bipartisan group is spending significantly to target Reps.
United Democracy Project super PAC targets Lee, Bowman, Massie over anti-Israel votes
In its first major investment of the primary cycle, United Democracy Project, a pro-Israel super PAC affiliated with AIPAC, is now running a series of attack ads hitting two left-wing House members as well as a GOP congressman over their stances on the Israel-Hamas conflict. The bipartisan group is spending significantly to target Reps. Jamaal Bowman (D-NY), Summer Lee (D-PA) and Thomas Massie (R-KY), a libertarian Republican who frequently opposes pro-Israel legislation.
In change from past, pro-Israel groups rally to oust left-wing lawmakers
As far-left House members face primary competition over their polarizing stances on Israel’s war with Hamas, newly emboldened pro-Israel groups are indicating that they are now preparing to invest significantly in the upcoming election cycle. In one notable development, a major Democratic fundraiser with ties to a moderate political action committee that backs pro-Israel candidates is signaling that top donors are eager to fund credible primary challenges to Reps.
Youngest House Democratic recruits speak out for Israel
Three of the youngest Democrats now running for Congress are teaming up to voice their support for Israel and express their appreciation for President Joe Biden as he faces left-wing backlash over his staunch commitment to Israel in its escalating war with Hamas.
Trump receives enthusiastic reception at RJC’s annual summit
LAS VEGAS — There were only a few MAGA hats amid a sea of kippahs at the Republican Jewish Coalition’s annual leadership summit on Saturday. But if there was any doubt that former President Donald Trump had fallen from favor among the majority of conservative donors and activists gathered in a packed ballroom of the Venetian Resort here, the sustained applause he received while taking the stage quickly put such speculation to rest.
RJC chair Norm Coleman previews annual summit, featuring all GOP presidential contenders
LAS VEGAS — As Israel’s war with Hamas continues to escalate, the Republican Jewish Coalition is hosting its high-profile annual donor summit — where eight GOP presidential candidates are expected to address the conflict at the Venetian Resort on Saturday — during a time of unique urgency for American Jews. “There’s a heaviness that hangs over this event,” former Sen.
Cardin calls Arab leaders’ comments on Hamas ‘extremely frustrating,’ says private messages are different
Sen. Ben Cardin (D-MD) said yesterday that comments from Arab leaders, such as Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Jordanian Queen Rania, defending Hamas and criticizing Israel are “extremely frustrating” but emphasized that the messages being delivered privately are much more critical of Hamas. “In private conversations I’ve had with leaders in the region of Arab states, they all recognize what Hamas is all about.
Nikki Haley leans into fighting campus antisemitism ahead of RJC summit
LAS VEGAS — Former U.N. Ambassador Nikki Haley is speaking out against rising incidents of campus antisemitism ahead of a high-profile appearance at the Republican Jewish Coalition’s annual leadership summit in Las Vegas, where more than half a dozen presidential contenders will address donors at the Venetian Resort on Saturday.
American Jewish leaders denounce Erdogan for defending Hamas
American Jewish leaders are forcefully denouncing Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan after he canceled a previously planned visit to Israel and claimed that Hamas is not a terrorist organization but a liberation group waging a battle to protect its land and people.
North Carolina lt. governor quoted Hitler in newly unearthed social media posts
Mark Robinson, the lieutenant governor of North Carolina and a leading Republican candidate for governor, found his efforts to declare solidarity with Israel backfiring — by drawing renewed scrutiny to his long history of invoking antisemitic conspiracy theories and casting doubt on the Holocaust.
Larry Hogan withdraws from Harvard fellowships over handling of pro-Hamas letter
Former Maryland Gov. Larry Hogan is withdrawing from two fellowships at Harvard University over the university’s handling of a controversial statement signed by dozens of Harvard student groups claiming Israel was “entirely responsible” for Hamas’ terrorist attacks, he wrote in a letter sent to Harvard President Claudine Gay on Monday.
Andy Kim touts support for Israel - and his national security experience - in Senate challenge to Menendez
Bill Clark/CQ Roll Call via AP Images Rep. Andy Kim (D-NJ) is touting his national security credentials and support for Israel in its ongoing war with Hamas as he mounts a new challenge to embattled Sen. Bob Menendez (D-NJ), a hawkish pro-Israel Democrat recently charged with conspiring to act as an agent of the Egyptian government. “This is a place where I can really lean in and engage,” Kim, 41, pledged in an interview with Jewish Insider last week.
Pro-Israel progressives begin to crack down on growing far-left extremism toward Israel
Progressive pro-Israel lawmakers and activists are gradually beginning to crack down on extreme voices from the hard left as a range of outspoken anti-Zionist groups have grown increasingly radical amid the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas. The most high-profile rebuke came on Wednesday morning from Rep.
Eileen Filler-Corn announces campaign for open House seat in Northern Virginia
Eileen Filler-Corn, the first woman and first Jewish speaker of Virginia’s House of Delegates, is launching a new campaign for a competitive open congressional seat in Northern Virginia, she announced in an exclusive interview with Jewish Insider. “There’s no doubt in my mind that this is the right time for me to step up,” Filler-Corn, a Democrat, said on Tuesday. “I look at what is going on in Washington, D.C., or I should say what’s not going on. The chaos. The MAGA Republicans.
Trump preparing to attend RJC summit after criticizing Netanyahu
Former President Donald Trump is expected to make a rare and eagerly anticipated appearance alongside several GOP opponents at the Republican Jewish Coalition’s annual leadership summit in Las Vegas next week. But as he prepares to speak at the high-profile donor confab, which he has not addressed in person for four years, an uncomfortable reality is emerging amid fierce bipartisan backlash over his controversial comments on Hamas’ attacks in Israel.
Squad members face new vulnerability over anti-Israel activism
This article was first published on Jewish Insider. Bhavini Patel, a borough councilwoman in the Pittsburgh area who recently launched a House campaign with backing from Jewish and pro-Israel activists, is drawing sharp contrasts on Middle East policy as she seeks to knock off Rep. Summer Lee (D-PA), a freshman Squad member and Democratic socialist. In Minneapolis, Don Samuels, a former city councilman, is preparing to announce a rematch against Rep.
Squad members face new vulnerability over anti-Israel activism
Bhavini Patel, a borough councilwoman in the Pittsburgh area who recently launched a House campaign with backing from Jewish and pro-Israel activists, is drawing sharp contrasts on Middle East policy as she seeks to knock off Rep. Summer Lee (D-PA), a freshman Squad member and Democratic socialist. In Minneapolis, Don Samuels, a former city councilman, is preparing to announce a rematch against Rep.
War of words: Marty Baron weighs in on media coverage of terrorism against Israel
Marty Baron, the former longtime editor of The Washington Post and the author of a new memoir about his tenure atop the paper, has a personal connection to the war between Israel and Hamas that is now dominating the international news cycle.
Under fire from several Democrats, former Rep. Mondaire Jones deletes ‘regrettable’ tweet
Former Rep. Mondaire Jones (D-NY) found himself on the defensive Wednesday as he removed a controversial social media comment that had drawn unusually hostile backlash from two prominent House Democrats who accused him of insulting Jewish people and invoking antisemitic rhetoric. “Yesterday, I posted a tweet that was too open to misinterpretation,” Jones, who is mounting a comeback campaign to reclaim his old House seat in the Lower Hudson Valley, wrote in a statement on Wednesday afternoon.
Mondaire Jones defends criticism of McCarthy meeting with Hasidic leaders
Former Rep. Mondaire Jones (D-NY) is facing scrutiny over an ambiguously worded tweet criticizing ousted House Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R-CA) for meeting with Orthodox Jewish leaders in a Hudson Valley swing district where Jones is now seeking to reclaim his old congressional seat.
Bowman faces renewed vulnerability back home after pulling fire alarm
The fallout over Rep. Jamaal Bowman’s (D-NY) questionable decision to pull a House fire alarm on Saturday is fueling ongoing recruitment efforts among Jewish and pro-Israel activists to enlist a credible challenger to run in next year’s June primary election. In recent days, the incident has brought renewed attention to George Latimer, the popular Westchester County executive, who has previously met with AIPAC about launching a campaign.
Pressure mounts on Canadian government to bring Nazis in the country to justice
The recent celebration of a Nazi collaborator in Canada’s House of Commons drew an international uproar that has forced the resignation of a top parliamentary official and elicited a public apology from Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, who last week called the incident “a horrendous violation of the memory of the millions of people who died in the Holocaust.” But leading Jewish advocacy groups in Canada insist that such measures remain largely inadequate as the fallout from the controversy...
Menendez indictment sets off game of musical chairs in New Jersey
The recent indictment of Sen. Bob Menendez (D-NJ) has triggered an increasingly complex game of musical chairs as a growing number of potential primary opponents weigh campaigns to unseat him in next year’s election. Meanwhile, the political fallout from the federal corruption charges — which Menendez has vehemently denied amid mounting calls for his resignation — is shaping several down-ballot races in New Jersey, extending beyond federal office into state and municipal contests.
Top UPenn trustees protest their alma mater’s antisemitic festival
Several prominent trustees and alumni of the University of Pennsylvania have signed an open letter expressing “deep concerns” over the school’s controversial decision to host a Palestinian cultural festival featuring multiple speakers who have demonized Israel and voiced antisemitic rhetoric.
UPenn president declines to intervene in antisemitic conference on campus
Citing the University of Pennsylvania’s “commitment to open expression and academic freedom,” the school’s president, Elizabeth Magill, indicated in a private letter to the Anti-Defamation League that she would not directly intervene in a Palestinian cultural festival that begins on Friday and features a number of controversial figures who have voiced antisemitic rhetoric.
Erdogan meets with Jewish leaders, amid improving relations with Israel
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan reiterated that he intends to visit Israel as soon as possible in a private discussion with American Jewish leaders in New York City on Wednesday afternoon, according to participants who were present for the conversation, a day after his first in-person meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly.
Keeping the faith - at arm’s length
Hours before the start of Rosh Hashanah last Friday, Xóchitl Gálvez, the leading opposition candidate in Mexico’s upcoming presidential election, shared a brief message wishing the Jewish community a happy new year and a “blessed” Yom Kippur. “May you have a 5,784 full of health, happiness, prosperity and may you be sealed in the Book of Life,” she said on X, formerly known as Twitter.
UPenn to host festival featuring speakers calling for the destruction of Israel
The University of Pennsylvania is facing backlash from a growing number of Jewish leaders, trustees and alumni for hosting a Palestinian cultural festival next week featuring several controversial figures who have espoused antisemitic rhetoric and called for the destruction of Israel. The Palestinian Writes Literature Festival, which is scheduled to take place Sept.
Pro-Israel advocates face early challenges in effort to unseat Squad members
This article was first published on Jewish Insider. While AIPAC has indicated that it is weighing a more aggressive approach to challenging anti-Israel incumbents this election cycle, the pro-Israel group is facing some early complications as several of its favored House recruits remain undecided about running. Meanwhile, in a couple of pivotal races involving Squad members, the field of challengers is growing, potentially reducing the chances for an upset.
Pro-Israel advocates face early challenges in effort to unseat Squad members
While AIPAC has indicated that it is weighing a more aggressive approach to challenging anti-Israel incumbents this election cycle, the pro-Israel group is facing some early complications as several of its favored House recruits remain undecided about running. Meanwhile, in a couple of pivotal races involving Squad members, the field of challengers is growing, potentially reducing the chances for an upset.
Steven Fulop wants to be the first Jewish governor of New Jersey
Steven Fulop, the popular three-term mayor of Jersey City who launched an early campaign for governor in April, has long embraced his Jewish background as a key part of his biography.
Top Republican donors like Nikki Haley, but wary of financial commitment
(Photo by Win McNamee/Getty Images) Two weeks after her standout performance in the first Republican presidential debate, Nikki Haley is seeking to ride a wave of momentum as she gains traction in early primary states, sees a boost in national polling and pads her campaign warchest with a recent influx of donations.
In Ohio, Frank LaRose looks for his lane
Ohio Secretary of State Frank LaRose entered the race for Senate last month with an enviable profile as a pragmatic conservative with a record of winning statewide races and boasting an early polling lead over his GOP primary rivals. LaRose’s military service also distinguishes him in a field that includes two wealthy businessmen vying to take on Sen. Sherrod Brown (D-OH), seen as a vulnerable incumbent, in the November 2024 election.
For Ilhan Omar, not all foreign influence spending is bad
During her time in Congress, Rep. Ilhan Omar (D-MN) has frequently voiced concern over the influence of foreign interests on American politics — most controversially with regard to the pro-Israel community in the U.S.But when she visited Qatar last November to watch the World Cup, it was unclear who had paid for the trip, which the progressive lawmaker neglected to clarify. Her office did not answer questions from The New York Times in December about the funding source after she had returned.
For Ilhan Omar, not all foreign influence spending is bad
During her time in Congress, Rep. Ilhan Omar (D-MN) has frequently voiced concern over the influence of foreign interests on American politics — most controversially with regard to the pro-Israel community in the U.S.But when she visited Qatar last November to watch the World Cup, it was unclear who had paid for the trip, which the progressive lawmaker neglected to clarify. Her office did not answer questions from The New York Times in December about the funding source after she had returned.
Ilhan Omar’s Qatar junket draws scrutiny
During her time in Congress, Rep. Ilhan Omar (D-MN) has frequently voiced concern over the influence of foreign interests on American politics — most controversially with regard to the pro-Israel community in the U.S.But when she visited Qatar last November to watch the World Cup, it was unclear who had paid for the trip, which the progressive lawmaker neglected to clarify. Her office did not answer questions from The New York Times in December about the funding source after she had returned.
For Ilhan Omar, not all foreign influence spending is bad
During her time in Congress, Rep. Ilhan Omar (D-MN) has frequently voiced concern over the influence of foreign interests on American politics — most controversially with regard to the pro-Israel community in the U.S.But when she visited Qatar last November to watch the World Cup, it was unclear who had paid for the trip, which the progressive lawmaker neglected to clarify. Her office did not answer questions from The New York Times in December about the funding source after she had returned.
AIPAC steps up efforts to oust anti-Israel lawmakers
This article was first published on Jewish Insider. In recent months, AIPAC has stepped up its recruitment efforts to challenge Democratic incumbents who have clashed with the pro-Israel establishment, pushing the activist left into a defensive crouch as it prepares for a potentially bruising primary cycle. The bipartisan pro-Israel group has been actively courting a slate of House candidates to oppose marquee members of the “Squad,” including Reps.
AIPAC steps up efforts to oust anti-Israel lawmakers
In recent months, AIPAC has stepped up its recruitment efforts to challenge Democratic incumbents who have clashed with the pro-Israel establishment, pushing the activist left into a defensive crouch as it prepares for a potentially bruising primary cycle. The bipartisan pro-Israel group has been actively courting a slate of House candidates to oppose marquee members of the “Squad,” including Reps.
Jamaal Bowman’s anti-Israel posture fuels primary opposition back home
Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images Rep. Jamaal Bowman (D-NY) has long had a contentious relationship with Jewish community leaders in his district, many of whom have vocally objected to his increasingly hostile positions toward Israel.
Top GOP Senate recruit in Montana shies away from past support for Ukraine
Tim Sheehy, a top GOP Senate recruit in Montana, is signaling his support for an isolationist approach to the war in Ukraine, breaking with previous comments in which he advocated for an unusually aggressive response to Russia’s invasion. In a statement to a Montana talk radio host published on Wednesday, Sheehy, a businessman and former Navy SEAL officer, called for the U.S. to end its involvement in Ukraine and “compel an immediate peaceful outcome” to the ongoing conflict.
Mike Pence speaks out against growing antisemitism in politics ahead of CUFI speech
Former Vice President Mike Pence said in an interview on Monday that Rep. Pramila Jayapal’s (D-WA) recent comments describing Israel as “a racist state” were “a disgrace,” even as he acknowledged that she had since walked back her remarks amid criticism from members of both parties. “I’m glad she took it back,” Pence told Jewish Insider at the Washington, D.C., offices of his political advocacy group, Advancing American Freedom.
Top GOP Senate recruit breaks with party leaders on foreign policy
During his first Senate campaign in Nevada last year, Sam Brown, a retired Army captain who said last week that he will challenge Sen. Jacky Rosen (D-NV) in a key battleground state, was courting voters at a closed-door candidate luncheon hosted by the state’s largest Republican women’s club.
In N.C., Walker hits Robinson for ‘antisemitic remarks’ and ‘denial of the Holocaust’
Mark Walker, a Republican candidate for governor of North Carolina, is forcefully denouncing a leading primary rival, Mark Robinson, over incendiary past social media comments that Walker called out for promoting antisemitic tropes and Holocaust denialism. “His history of antisemitic remarks is troubling,” Walker, a former congressman from Greensboro, said in an interview with Jewish Insider on Wednesday afternoon.
Big Ten Conference chief of staff Adam Neuman returns to his flock
For Adam Neuman, a rising star in professional sports management, the chance to work for the Baltimore Ravens, the NFL team he joined on Friday as chief of staff and special adviser to the president, represents a personally fulfilling return not only to his beloved native city but to a robust Jewish community that has long kept him centered — even from afar.
Jake Tapper channels the raucous '70s in his new novel. Remember Evel Knievel?
“Pardon me,” Jake Tapper said. “I’m eating some celery.”The chief Washington correspondent for CNN had just wrapped up an episode of his daily news show, “The Lead With Jake Tapper,” when he got on the phone for an interview with Jewish Insider last week. He was running on “an empty stomach,” he said, and needed a pick-me-up as he pivoted to a different subject: his latest novel, out today.
Mondaire Jones looks to reclaim his old seat against challenger with a Democratic pedigree
Jemal Countess/Getty Images for We, The 45 Million The race for a key swing seat that could ultimately determine the House majority grew even more competitive last week when former Rep. Mondaire Jones (D-NY) launched a widely anticipated bid to reclaim his old district in the Lower Hudson Valley. Jones, 36, is running against freshman Rep.
North Carolina’s GOP front-runner for governor has a history of racist and antisemitic diatribes
In a series of previously unreported social media posts, Mark Robinson, the GOP frontrunner for governor of North Carolina, repeatedly minimized Nazi atrocities and promoted conspiracy theories about Hollywood and the media using Yiddish ethnic slurs, among other incendiary assertions. “I am so sick of seeing and hearing people STILL talk about Nazis and Hitler and how evil and manipulative they were.
Ben Judah upends the myths about Europe
In his day job at the Atlantic Council, a prominent foreign policy think tank based in Washington, D.C., Ben Judah, the British-French author and journalist, is widely recognized as a leading expert on all things Europe. In his recently published book, This Is Europe: The Way We Live Now, he embraces a different mode, abjuring political analysis in favor of a novelistic approach to illuminating — rather than simply explaining — a rapidly changing continent through the lens of its inhabitants.
East New York Jewish community vital in ouster of controversial New York City councilmember
The small but politically active Jewish community in the East New York section of Brooklyn appears to have played a decisive role in ousting Charles Barron — a veteran city councilman long accused of antisemitism — from office last week.
Anti-Israel candidate toppled in New York City Council primary
Jewish community activists are hailing the election results of two bitterly contested City Council races in Brooklyn this week, where an incumbent long accused of antisemitism is expected to be unseated and a lesser-known candidate who faced criticism over an endorsement from an anti-Israel union went down to defeat.
Montana Senate race to test influence of GOP establishment in key battleground state
The battle for a key Senate seat in Montana appears to be headed for a bitter primary clash between a hard-right congressional firebrand and a political newcomer handpicked by GOP leadership. Tim Sheehy, a businessman and former Navy SEAL officer, launched a widely expected Senate campaign on Tuesday, setting the stage for a potentially bruising showdown with Rep. Matt Rosendale (R-MT), a combative conservative who has indicated that he is plotting his own bid.
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