Coming off a big win in Nevada, Sen. Bernie Sanders is making headlines for a different reason. The Vermont Senator took a shot at the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC) by announcing that he would not be attending the pro-Israel organization’s annual conference.
Sanders tweeted that he was boycotting the event due to his displeasure with current Israeli Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu and his policies.
“The Israeli people have the right to live in peace and security. So do the Palestinian people. I remain concerned about the platform AIPAC provides for leaders who express bigotry and oppose basic Palestinian rights. For that reason I will not attend their conference.”
Tony Katz speaks to Rabbi Ben Sendrow about Sanders’ criticism of AIPAC.
“Sen. Sanders has done nothing except expose how ignorant he is about AIPAC… He’s never attended or spoken at the conference. The organization stands for a strong Israel- USA relationship and that its beneficial for both countries. This is the most bi-partisan conference in America. Nancy Pelosi, Chuck Schumer, the Vice President all attend. It’s the most diverse group of 18,000 people I’ve ever been a part of.”
-Rabbi Ben Sendrow
Sanders, who is Jewish, has endorsements from Rep. Ilhan Omar and Rep. Rashida Tlaib. Both of whom have made anti-Israel remarks in the past.
