Trump continues to align with antisemites
In recent weeks, much has been written about a so-called split in the GOP surrounding the issue of antisemitism. While it’s laudable that some Republicans have recently condemned antisemites and dangerous right-wing extremists, it’s also painfully obvious that President Trump continues to embrace and defend them.
This past weekend, when faced with a choice between rejecting extremists or pandering to them, Trump chose to defend Tucker Carlson for his controversial interview with Nick Fuentes, a white nationalist, Holocaust denier, racist, and antisemite. Trump then claimed that he “didn’t know much about” Fuentes, even though Trump hosted Fuentes and Kanye West at Mar-a-Lago in 2022.
As the leader of the GOP, Donald Trump sets the standard for his party, the MAGA movement, and much of the country. Any condemnation of Fuentes or Carlson among some members of the GOP rings hollow when President Trump stands by them, and when no one in the Republican Party will stand up to Trump.
Young Republicans are picking up on Trump’s dog whistles and echoing his embrace of antisemitism and extremism. Recent reports show that the next generation of Republicans is “confused” by the mixed messages they’re receiving on the issue of antisemitism, including from the president and vice president. This includes JD Vance’s recent refusal to push back against an accusation that Jews are “openly supporting the prosecution of [Christianity].”
Make no mistake – the GOP embrace of extremism comes from the top, and Trump and Vance themselves continue to closely align with the far right. At the same time, Democratic leaders across the country are fighting back, including in state government. Join us TODAY at 1:00 p.m. ET to discuss how state Attorneys General are defending democracy and combating antisemitism with Michigan AG Dana Nessel, Arizona AG Kris Mayes, and Colorado AG Phil Weiser.
Now more than ever, it is critical that state leaders stand up to extremism. This important event will highlight actions being taken at the state level and the critical role Democrats and state attorneys general play in combating antisemitism.
In solidarity,
Halie Soifer
CEO, Jewish Democratic Council of America