In a recent revelation, Rep. Jamaal Bowman (D-NY) reportedly sought photographic evidence of his association with a Jewish leader in Westchester County, in an attempt to demonstrate his camaraderie with the Jewish community.
This information was disclosed by Matthew Kassel of Jewish Insider, who reported that Bowman's request was made privately.
According to Raw Story, this development follows a series of criticisms Bowman has faced over his handling of issues related to the Israel-Hamas conflict. The congressman, a member of the progressive "Squad," is currently trailing behind primary challenger George Latimer in a district with a significant Jewish population.
The Jewish leader, who chose to remain anonymous to safeguard his privacy, did possess a photograph from a Jewish community event in Bowman's district. At this gathering, the then-freshman Democrat had pledged to endorse a House bill designed to bolster the Abraham Accords, a promise he fulfilled shortly thereafter. However, Bowman's subsequent withdrawal of support for the bill, which sought to further normalize relations between Israel and its Arab neighbors, sparked discontent among Jewish activists in the district. They expressed feeling caught off guard by his sudden decision.
The Jewish leader recounted the text exchange, stating, I was uncomfortable. I kind of joked around with him about it. I said, Oh, Im sure you guys have it. Dont worry about it. He ultimately decided not to share the photograph.
Bowman's actions have stirred controversy in recent months. He sparked outrage when he asserted that "there's no evidence of ... raped women" in relation to Hamas' October 7 attack on Israel, which resulted in over 1,000 fatalities and hundreds held captive. He labeled the reports of rape as "propaganda," but later retracted his statement following U.N. reports that found substantial evidence of sexual violence perpetrated by Hamas terrorists.
Bowman's past writings have also drawn criticism, particularly those promoting conspiracy theories, including 9/11 trutherism. His YouTube channel, where he followed Flat Earther accounts and the rants of the antisemitic Black supremacist Louis Farrakhan, has been a point of contention. Additionally, an odd incident where he activated a fire alarm in a House office building has raised eyebrows. These controversies underscore the challenges Bowman faces in his bid for re-election, particularly among his Jewish constituents.
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