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Battleground Pennsylvania senators, John Fetterman and Dave McCormick, have collectively condemned antisemitism during a recent bipartisan forum. Their remarks came in the wake of a shocking attack on a pro-Israel gathering in Boulder, Colorado.
In the sixth installment of The Senate Project series, a collaboration organized by the Edward M. Kennedy Institute for the United States Senate and the Orrin G. Hatch Foundation, McCormick expressed serious concerns about the rising tide of antisemitism in the country. He highlighted this during a discussion aired on FOX Nation.
McCormick noted that the increase of antisemitism is alarming and evident throughout society. He emphasized the need to confront it with strong moral clarity.
McCormick elaborated on his recent trip to Israel, stating, “We see this deeply seated in our society. We must stand up against it. Our institutions need to be free of antisemitism; that is a mandate we should uphold.”
Fetterman echoed these sentiments, firmly condemning the Boulder attack and other antisemitic incidents that have occurred recently. He acknowledged his disagreement with certain factions within his own party regarding the issue.
Fetterman remarked on the Boulder incident, describing it as astonishing. He said, “The rank antisemitism we are seeing is out of control. We must recognize and address this. My support for Israel puts me at odds with parts of my party, but I stand firm in my beliefs.”
The suspect, Mohamed Sabry Soliman, faces serious charges, including murder and assault, in connection with what the FBI has labeled a targeted terror attack on the pro-Israel group.
Reports indicate that Soliman is in the United States illegally, having immigrated from Egypt.
Fetterman continued his remarks by expressing discontent with certain narratives within political dialogues. He stated, “We have lost, to some extent, the argument on moral clarity when it comes to Israel. I will not allow Israel to become a pariah state amidst the turmoil in Gaza. The real tragedy there is undeniable, but we must place responsibility where it belongs—with Hamas and Iran.”
McCormick emphasized that sustained pressure must be applied to Hamas in order to dismantle its military capabilities.
The Senate Project aims to provide a platform for sitting senators from opposing parties to engage in civil discussions about pressing political issues. This initiative seeks to foster bipartisanship by identifying solutions to contentious topics.
Bruce A. Percelay, Chairman of the Kennedy Institute, reinforced the importance of such dialogues, stating, “Vigorous and open dialogue is essential for our democracy. The discussions between these two senators from different political backgrounds represent a valuable contribution to public discourse.”
As the nation grapples with the implications of rising antisemitism, it becomes increasingly crucial for all leaders, regardless of political affiliation, to unite against hate and discrimination. Senator Fetterman and Senator McCormick’s public condemnation serves as a reminder of the collective responsibility shared by all to ensure the eradication of antisemitism from society.
In the aftermath of the Boulder incident, there continues to be a profound need for reflection on the societal norms that allow antisemitism to flourish. Ongoing discussions and actions from political leaders will play a significant role in shaping a more inclusive environment for all communities.
Each public figure’s contribution to this ongoing dialogue is invaluable. As more politicians take a stand against antisemitism, the potential for genuine change in the cultural narrative increases significantly.
With the support of initiatives like The Senate Project, there is hope that collaborative efforts between political parties can help bridge divides and foster a more unified approach to combating hate in all its forms.
