Gottheimer, Lawler Introduce Resolution Condemning Piker, Owens

U.S. Representatives Josh Gottheimer, a Democrat from New Jersey, and Mike Lawler, a Republican from New York, introduced a bipartisan resolution this week condemning antisemitic rhetoric promoted by online streamer Hasan Piker and podcaster Candace Owens.

The non-binding measure, put forward on Wednesday, accuses both influencers of disseminating hate-filled content that contributes to a rise in antisemitism amid growing online disinformation and extremist rhetoric. It highlights Piker's alleged support for Hamas, a U.S.-designated terrorist organization, including statements such as "Hamas over Israel every single time" and downplaying reports of sexual violence during the group's October 7, 2023, attacks in southern Israel. The resolution also cites his description of Orthodox Jews as "inbred." For Owens, it points to conspiracy theories claiming Israel controls the U.S. government, assertions that ancient Jewish texts teach hatred of non-Jews, promotion of blood libels, and doubts cast on Holocaust survivors' accounts, as well as platforming Holocaust deniers.

Lawler stated, "Piker has openly applauded Hamas terrorism, downplayed the mass assault of civilians on Oct. 7, and...