Three progressive House Democrats, including Rashida Tlaib, Ilhan Omar, and André Carson, are urging leaders from both parties to denounce the increasing instances of "anti-Muslim" and "anti-Palestinian hate" within U.S. politics. They specifically criticized a new bill introduced by Rep. Ryan Zinke, R-Mont., which targets the expulsion of Palestinians from the U.S., condemning it as an act of fascism and bigotry.
In their joint statement, the lawmakers also pointed out statements from other Republicans, including Sen. Lindsey Graham, Rep. Max Miller, and Rep. Brian Mast, expressing concerns about the rising tide of anti-Muslim, anti-Arab, and anti-Palestinian sentiments in political discourse. The Democrats emphasized the broader impact of such targeting, stating that it not only endangers Palestinian-American lives but also poses a threat to the safety of all Muslim-Americans, Arab-Americans, Sikhs, and people of color sharing similar identities.
The progressive representatives called on the leadership of both political parties to unequivocally condemn the mentioned comments and legislation, asserting that anti-Muslim and anti-Arab hate has no place in U.S. politics. In response to their statement, Rep. Ryan Zinke criticized the Congress members, stating that it is unacceptable for them to prioritize Palestinian terrorists over the safety of Americans.
It's noted that the House, in a bipartisan vote, censured Rep. Rashida Tlaib over her anti-Israel comments following a surprise attack by Hamas on Israel. Tlaib, the only Palestinian American in Congress, faced criticism for sharing a video containing the pro-Palestinian slogan "From the river to the sea," which some argue implies the destruction of Israel as a state. The censure resolution passed with 234 votes in favor, including 22 Democrats and 212 Republicans, and 188 against.
