The measure calls for increased efforts to counter hate speech and disinformation circulating on digital platforms.
By Shula Rosen
U.S. Reps. Josh Gottheimer, D-N.J., and Mike Lawler, R-N.Y., on Thursday introduced a bipartisan resolution condemning what they described as a rise in antisemitic rhetoric online by prominent personalities and urging stronger action from social media platforms and public officials.
The measure, introduced by Gottheimer (NJ-5) and Lawler (NY-17), targets inflammatory content attributed to online figures including Hasan Piker and Candace Owens.
It also calls for increased efforts to counter hate speech and disinformation circulating on digital platforms.
According to the lawmakers, the resolution addresses the growing reach of online influencers and links that influence to an increase in antisemitic content.
The proposal emphasizes concerns about extremist rhetoric and false narratives contributing to hostility toward Jewish communities.
“Hatred is hatred, period. It doesn’t matter whether it comes from the far right or the far left,” Gottheimer said. “We cannot be selective in calling out antisemitism. When influential voices spread conspiracy theories, promote terrorism, or dehumanize Jewish people, it fuels real-world violence and intimidation. We must stand up and speak out.”
Lawler cited specific allegations against the named personalities in explaining his support for the measure.
“Piker has openly applauded Hamas’ terrorism, downplayed the mass rape of civilians on October 7th, and dehumanized Orthodox Jews as ‘inbred.’ Owens has trafficked in vile conspiracy theories, promoted blood libels, and platformed Holocaust deniers,” Lawler said.
“With an audience of millions, they have a responsibility to confront hatred and bigotry in every form, not to amplify it to the masses. So if they won’t call it out, I will.”
Gottheimer said addressing antisemitism requires consistency from public officials. “I get that speaking up is not easy,” he said. “But our constituents didn’t elect us to always take the easy path. That’s what principled leadership is all about.”
The resolution states that the United States remains committed to combating antisemitism and protecting the safety and dignity of Jewish individuals and communities in both online and offline spaces.
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