TRENTON, NJ – A recent closed-door caucus meeting witnessed New Jersey Representative Josh Gottheimer’s alleged insensitive remarks about Israel’s war on Gaza, sparking condemnation from the New Jersey chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-NJ).
The episode unfolded when a Pennsylvania House Democrat expressed her desire for no religious community to feel ostracized, referencing a virtual vigil she attended during the Gaza conflict.
Rep. Gottheimer’s interjection was perceived by some as derogatory towards Muslims, causing a stir among the attendees.
The incident, reported initially by Politico, saw various reactions from the caucus members, with one yelling “Joshua!” in disapproval. Texas Representative Greg Casar labeled Gottheimer’s words as “shameful,” underscoring the tensions among the Democratic lawmakers over the ongoing Israel-Gaza situation.
Rep. Gottheimer later clarified that his comments were misunderstood, asserting they were taken out of context. However, CAIR-NJ’s Executive Director Selaedin Maksut found the allegations against Gottheimer disturbing, especially as constituents had recently voiced concerns to the representative.
“Congressman Gottheimer never said anything about Muslims in the caucus meeting, a community he cares deeply about. Congressman Gottheimer said that the Members of Congress who have not yet condemned Hamas terrorists should feel guilty, and he stands by that. This is an anti-Israel, antisemitic smear campaign from extremists who are targeting Congressman Gottheimer because he is a strong supporter of the U.S.-Israel relationship and a vocal critic of Hamas terrorists,” said a spokesperson for Josh Gottheimer.
Maksut questioned the intent behind Gottheimer’s remarks, urging for a more humane approach towards the Israel-Palestine issue, emphasizing the ongoing violence’s root cause being the siege and blockade of Gaza by Israel. He voiced solidarity with Gazans and mourned the loss of innocent lives.
“During yesterday’s Democratic Caucus meeting, emotions were running high. This is a devastating moment for many of our constituents and their loved ones directly impacted by Hamas’ heinous and brutal attack on Israel. I observed Rep. Gottheimer’s outburst and approached him. Josh didn’t realize the context in which he was responding to, his remarks were in reference to Members that have not yet condemned Hamas, and not all Muslims in general. I am of the understanding that Rep. Gottheimer was able speak with all colleagues involved,” said Congresswoman Grace Meng.
In a parallel move, CAIR-NJ penned an open letter to New Jersey officials, urging them to heed the appeals of Palestinian civil society amid the escalating violence in Gaza. This incident underscores the heated discussions and differing opinions within the Democratic ranks concerning the Israel-Palestine conflict.