Matt Gaetz criticizes bill against antisemitism as ‘hate speech bill’.
The House’s antisemitism legislation faced strong opposition from Rep. Matt Gaetz, R-Fla., who criticized it as a “ridiculous hate speech bill” before it was passed with a vote of 320-91. The Antisemitism Awareness Act targets antisemitism on college campuses and broadens the legal definition of antisemitism for anti-discrimination laws enforcement. This bill comes amid anti-Israel demonstrations on college campuses nationwide.
Gaetz expressed concerns that excerpts from the Bible could be classified as antisemitic under this bill. He argued against its passage and emphasized the need to uphold constitutional rights and common sense. The proposed legislation would require the Department of Education to adopt the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance’s definition of antisemitism.
An example provided by Gaetz pointed out that claims about Jews killing Jesus, as per IHRA’s definition, could encompass text from the Bible. He firmly stood by his decision not to support the bill, citing clear conflicts with the First Amendment.
The IHRA defines antisemitism as a certain perception of Jews manifesting as hatred towards Jewish individuals, institutions, or property. Gaetz reiterated his stance against the bill, advocating against granting undue authority to the Department of Education to police antisemitism.
Opponents of the legislation criticized it for potential restriction of free speech on campuses. Rep. Jerry Nadler, D-N.Y., a leading Democrat, raised concerns about the bill’s impact on protected speech, particularly regarding criticism of Israel.
Despite over a dozen Democratic supporters, the bill received backlash from both sides of the aisle. While 70 Democrats voted against it, 133 voted in favor. Similarly, 21 Republicans opposed the bill, with 187 supporting it.
Gaetz’s remarks drew fierce criticism, with Jeff Miller condemning his statements as ignorant and racist. Gaetz later clarified his position, stating that his concern was rooted in constitutional principles, rather than religious or historical beliefs.
This contentious issue underscores the ongoing debate over the intersection of free speech, antisemitism, and legislative responses to combat discrimination. The passage of the Antisemitism Awareness Act has ignited a mix of support and dissent, reflecting the complexities of addressing hate speech while safeguarding individual liberties.
