Jean-Pierre's response, which was perceived as an attempt to sidestep the issue of anti-Jewish bigotry, drew criticism from both conservative and liberal quarters.
The contentious exchange took place during a press conference when a journalist inquired about the administration's stance on the possibility of a surge in antisemitism in the United States, triggered by the Middle Eastern conflict. Jean-Pierre responded:
October 25, 2023
"So a couple of things. Um, look, we have not seen any credible threats. I know there's been always questions about credible threats and so, I just want to make sure that's out there. But look, Muslims and those perceived to be Muslim have endured a disproportionate number of hate-fueled attacks, and certainly, President Biden understands that many of our Muslim, Arab, Arab-American, and Palestinian-American loved ones are worried about the hate being directed at their communities, and that is something you heard the President speak to in his address just last Thursday."
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Jean-Pierre further added that President Biden has directed his Homeland Security team to prioritize the prevention and disruption of any emerging threats that could harm Jewish, Muslim, Arab Americans, or any other communities. She emphasized that the administration is committed to denouncing any form of hate directed towards any American.
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However, Jean-Pierre's pivot to the issue of Islamophobia while addressing a question about antisemitism did not go unnoticed. Even individuals from the left expressed their disapproval.
Democratic Representative Jared Moskowitz from Florida criticized Jean-Pierre's response, describing it as "weak." He tweeted, "What a weak answer. And why are you looking in the book? What’s the approved answer? The simple answer is yes, you are concerned about the rise of antisemitism. Of course we are also worried about hatred against Muslim Americans. Must do better."
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In an attempt to rectify her earlier response, Jean-Pierre later posted on X, formerly known as Twitter, explaining that the White House is actively working to "address any potential threats that could harm Jewish communities, as well as Muslim, Arab American, and Palestinian American communities."
However, her delayed acknowledgment of the potential rise in antisemitism raised questions. Why did it require a backlash for Jean-Pierre to recognize the issue?
Moskowitz's critique highlights an important point – there should be no "approved" answer when it comes to addressing any form of bigotry. Unfortunately, as has been previously noted, progressives often seem to prioritize certain forms of bigotry over others, depending on their political agenda. This is perhaps why Jean-Pierre initially deflected to the issue of Islamophobia.
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