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The Democratic Party’s Complicity in the Rise of Anti-Semitism in America

By: Fern Sidman

The United States is witnessing an alarming surge in anti-Semitism, manifesting in various forms across social, political, and academic spheres. From violent attacks against Jews in major cities to the rampant harassment of Jewish students on college campuses, the need for strong leadership to confront and combat this menace has never been greater. However, while the Democratic Party claims to champion inclusivity and tolerance, there is mounting evidence that key figures within the party are not merely ignoring the rise of anti-Semitism—they are actively fostering it.

“Raise your hands if there are Zionists here. This is your last chance to get out!”

This Jew-hater, Anas Saleh, was just sentenced for his antisemitic threat.

He got FOUR HOURS OF COMMUNITY SERVICE!

New York basically told him:
“Cool, just promise not to do it again, okay?” pic.twitter.com/ylpbmi73Lr

— Jews Fight Back 🇺🇸🇮🇱 (@JewsFightBack) February 6, 2025

Progressives, Israel, and the Normalization of Anti-Semitism

One of the most insidious ways in which the Democratic Party has emboldened anti-Semitism is through the rhetoric and actions of its progressive wing. This faction, led by prominent members of “The Squad,” such as Representatives Ilhan Omar (D-MN), Rashida Tlaib (D-MI), and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY), has persistently demonized Israel in ways that fuel anti-Semitic narratives. Their repeated accusations against the Jewish state—including claims of genocide, apartheid, and ethnic cleansing—have created an environment in which hostility toward Jews is increasingly tolerated.

Another assault outside Columbia! A Jewish student was punched in the face today by a pro-Hamas protestor right outside of campus. Please help identify the perpetrator. pic.twitter.com/0MBoDRdu2t

— David lederer (@Davidlederer6) December 10, 2024

For example, Ilhan Omar infamously tweeted that support for Israel in Congress was “all about the Benjamins,” insinuating that Jewish money controls American policy. When criticized, the Democratic leadership struggled to issue a firm condemnation. Instead of clearly denouncing her rhetoric as anti-Semitic, Speaker Nancy Pelosi and other Democratic leaders issued a watered-down resolution condemning generic forms of hate without specifically addressing Omar’s remarks. This reluctance to hold party members accountable has sent a dangerous message: anti-Semitism within progressive ranks will be tolerated, if not outright encouraged.

Rashida Tlaib, meanwhile, has a long history of promoting anti-Semitic rhetoric. She has defended Palestinian terrorists, supported the Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions (BDS) movement—which seeks to economically and politically isolate Israel—and even accused the Biden administration of “complicity in genocide” for its support of Israel’s war against Hamas. Such statements not only undermine Israel’s right to defend itself but also contribute to an increasingly hostile climate for Jews in the U.S.

Democratic Indifference to Anti-Semitism on Campus

Perhaps one of the most distressing aspects of the Democratic Party’s complacency is its failure to address the rampant anti-Semitism plaguing American college campuses. The rise of the BDS movement, backed by left-wing student groups and faculty members, has turned universities into hostile environments for Jewish students. Events such as “Apartheid Week”—where Israel is falsely accused of war crimes—have led to a surge in anti-Jewish harassment, including physical violence, vandalism, and public calls for the destruction of Israel.

🚨THREAD: Jewish Students Were Hunted at Cooper Union.

⚠️ The School Encouraged It!

ℹ️ Yesterday: February 5, 2025 → Judge John P. Cronan DENIED Cooper Union’s motion to dismiss our lawsuit.

💥 The case moves forward.
💥 Cooper Union will be held accountable for their Title… pic.twitter.com/qtdrhhKO9s

— Shirion Collective (@ShirionOrg) February 6, 2025

In December 2023, a bipartisan resolution condemning anti-Semitism on college campuses was put forth in the House of Representatives. Shockingly, the Democratic Party was deeply divided over the issue. Many progressive Democrats refused to support the measure, arguing that it could stifle “legitimate criticism of Israel.” This reluctance to condemn open displays of anti-Jewish hatred, including pro-Hamas rallies and violent protests, demonstrates a disturbing prioritization of radical leftist ideologies over the safety of Jewish students.

Jewish students get harassed trying to leave @Columbia’s campus tonight. You can hear someone yell “Yehudim Yehudim”- “Jews Jews.” They curse and yell “go back to Poland.” Antisemitism has become the new normal here. pic.twitter.com/U2Ii5GTuLm

— David lederer (@Davidlederer6) April 21, 2024

When university presidents from Harvard, MIT, and the University of Pennsylvania were called before Congress to testify about the explosion of anti-Semitism on their campuses, their evasive responses further underscored how entrenched this problem has become. Despite clear evidence that Jewish students were being harassed and intimidated, these institutions—often aligned with Democratic policies—refused to take substantive action.

I’m a proud Wolverine, but I will never forget the overt Jew hatred at @UMich. Today, a Jewish student was beaten for being a Jew. We can’t afford to be silent anymore. Jewish students deserve better. pic.twitter.com/z0K61RPh4l

— shay 🇮🇱 (@judeanceo) September 16, 2024

Democratic Ties to Radical Anti-Israel Groups

The Democratic Party’s tolerance for anti-Semitism extends beyond individual politicians—it is institutional. The party maintains close ties with organizations that actively promote anti-Israel sentiment, including CAIR (Council on American-Islamic Relations), Students for Justice in Palestine (SJP), and Jewish Voice for Peace (JVP). These groups have played a major role in spreading anti-Semitic tropes under the guise of “human rights advocacy.”

CAIR, for instance, has repeatedly defended Hamas, labeled Israel an “apartheid state,” and even called for boycotts of Jewish-owned businesses. Meanwhile, Students for Justice in Palestine has been responsible for numerous anti-Semitic incidents on college campuses, including disrupting pro-Israel events, threatening Jewish students, and chanting slogans such as “From the river to the sea, Palestine will be free”—a phrase that calls for the elimination of Israel.

🚨Purdue’s Student Newspaper is COLLUDING with Terror Sympathizers

Donald Trump signs an executive order to DEPORT Hamas supporters, and what does Purdue’s student newspaper do? They scramble to protect terrorist sympathizers by wiping their names and faces from ALL of their… pic.twitter.com/XrEqOCOm80

— Jews Fight Back 🇺🇸🇮🇱 (@JewsFightBack) February 6, 2025

Instead of distancing itself from these radical elements, the Democratic Party has embraced them. Members of Congress, including Bernie Sanders (I-VT) and Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), have refused to unequivocally condemn these groups, further legitimizing their anti-Semitic rhetoric.

The GOP’s Strong Stance Against Anti-Semitism

In stark contrast, the Trump administration and the Republican Party have taken decisive action against anti-Semitism. President Donald J. Trump has implemented groundbreaking policies to combat the scourge of Jew-hatred, including:

Columbia University still a safe haven for people who hate Jews. On the first day of class Hamas supporters invaded a History of Modern Israel Class. Harassing the professor and the students.

So proud of the students in this class for mocking them

pic.twitter.com/I7ltPLpcAv

— Տᗩᑎᗪᖇᗩ🎗️ (@SandraXFreedom) January 22, 2025

Expanding the Civil Rights Act to Protect Jewish Students: Under Trump, the Department of Education broadened the definition of anti-Semitism under Title VI of the Civil Rights Act, ensuring that Jewish students receive federal protections from discrimination and harassment.

The Executive Order to Combat Anti-Semitism: Issued in January 2025, this directive requires all federal agencies to report on their efforts to fight anti-Semitism and directs the Justice Department to take legal action against institutions that allow it to flourish.

The Formation of a Federal Task Force on Anti-Semitism: This multi-agency initiative aims to combat hate crimes against Jews, crack down on pro-Hamas vandalism and violence, and prosecute those engaging in anti-Jewish harassment.

Zero-Tolerance Immigration Policy: Under Trump’s directives, non-citizens who engage in anti-Semitic acts—whether through incitement, violence, or support for terror groups—will be subject to deportation.

 These measures represent an unequivocal commitment to protecting Jewish Americans, ensuring that universities, workplaces, and public spaces remain free from anti-Semitic intimidation. Unlike the Democratic Party, which often minimizes or justifies Jew-hatred under the pretext of “free speech” or “anti-Zionism,” the Trump administration has sent a clear message: anti-Semitism will not be tolerated in the United States.

The Urgent Need for Leadership

The growing chasm between the Democratic Party and the GOP on the issue of anti-Semitism is undeniable. While the left continues to embolden anti-Israel extremists, Republicans have taken tangible steps to protect Jewish communities from hate. The difference in approach is not merely rhetorical—it has real-world consequences for the safety and well-being of Jewish Americans.

If the Democratic Party continues down this path, it risks becoming a haven for the very prejudices it claims to oppose. It is imperative that moderate Democrats reclaim their party from the radicals who seek to normalize anti-Semitism. Until then, Jewish voters and all Americans who stand against hatred must recognize the stark contrast in leadership and support those who are truly committed to combating this ancient and pernicious hatred.

The stakes could not be higher.