Jewish Federation Council Labels AOC ‘Antisemite’s Choice’ for President, Backs Josh Shapiro
- Chadwick Dolgos
- Apr 25
- 2 min read
The Jewish Federation Council (JFC) has launched a campaign against Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, branding her the “antisemite’s choice” for president in a move that has stirred controversy within Democratic circles.
The council, a prominent Jewish advocacy group, has thrown its support behind Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro, citing his strong record on combating hate and his personal experience as a victim of what they describe as a targeted attack.
The accusations against Ocasio-Cortez stem from her vocal criticism of Israel’s actions in Gaza, which some have interpreted as crossing into antisemitic territory.
The Jewish Federation Council’s campaign highlights Shapiro’s leadership in addressing antisemitism, particularly following an incident at his official residence during Passover.
Authorities reported that a man firebombed the governor’s home, an act the council claims was motivated by Shapiro’s Jewish identity and his support for Israel.
The council’s statement praised Shapiro as a unifying figure who has consistently condemned all forms of bigotry while governing a key swing state.
“Governor Shapiro has shown time and again that he stands against hate in all its forms,” said Rachel Cohen, a spokesperson for the Jewish Federation Council. “His commitment to Pennsylvania and his faith make him the clear choice for leadership on a national stage.”
Ocasio-Cortez, known for her progressive stance and outspoken criticism of President Donald Trump, has faced scrutiny for her rhetoric on the Israel-Palestine conflict. Her accusations of genocide in Gaza and her support for pro-Palestinian protests have drawn ire from some Jewish advocacy groups, though she has maintained that her critiques target Israeli policy, not Jewish people.
The council’s campaign, however, frames her as a divisive figure whose rhetoric fuels antisemitic sentiment.
“Representative Ocasio-Cortez is probably the only one crazy enough to defund Israel,” said David Weiss, a council board member. “Her platform amplifies dangerous narratives that undermine the safety of Jewish communities.”
The campaign has sparked debate among Democrats, with some arguing it unfairly targets Ocasio-Cortez for her policy positions. Supporters of the congresswoman point out that she has condemned antisemitism publicly, including in a livestream with Jewish experts where she called it an “assault on our values.”
Critics of the council’s move suggest it risks alienating progressive voters by elevating Shapiro, whose moderate stance and support for Israel have drawn criticism from the party’s left wing.
Shapiro has not commented directly on the council’s endorsement but has previously dismissed claims that antisemitism influenced his exclusion from Vice President Kamala Harris’s ticket. His defenders argue that his record, including rapid infrastructure repairs and a tough stance on campus protests, makes him a strong candidate for higher office.
The council’s campaign, however, has raised eyebrows for its aggressive tone toward Ocasio-Cortez, with some questioning whether it overstates her influence to bolster Shapiro’s profile.
“AOC represents the future of our party, not division,” said Jamal Carter, a progressive activist. “This campaign feels like a distraction from real issues facing voters.”
As the Democratic Party grapples with internal divisions, the Jewish Federation Council’s efforts have added fuel to an already heated debate.
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