Bowman Fundraiser Hosted by Leader of Pro-Terrorist Group

A member of the House Democrats’ progressive “Squad” is facing criticism for hosting a fundraiser with an extremist Muslim leader who supported the terrorist attacks on Israel on Oct. 7.

Rep. Jamaal Bowman, D-N.Y., held the fundraiser this week with Council on American–Islamic Relations Executive Director Nihad Awad at a private residence in Fairfax, Virginia, the New York Post reported Saturday.

Awad had made antisemitic remarks, leading to the Biden administration removing CAIR from its National Strategy to Counter Antisemitism after Awad praised the Hamas terrorists responsible for the attacks.

In December, Awad expressed happiness over the Hamas terrorists slaughtering Israelis, claiming that the people of Gaza had the right to self-defense.

The White House condemned Awad’s remarks, severing ties with CAIR due to their antisemitic nature and terrorist connections.

Despite this, Bowman proceeded with the fundraiser alongside Awad, showing his support for the condemned leader. Bowman has been a vocal advocate for the Hamas-led Gazans, accusing Israel of committing war crimes in response to the hostage situation in October 2023.

Israeli officials have revealed that the hostages were taken by Hamas as part of a plan to use them as human shields and leverage against Israel.

The American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC) intends to spend millions opposing Bowman’s reelection bid with ads set to begin soon. However, Bowman is using this opposition to rally for more funds.

Westchester County Executive George Latimer is challenging Bowman in the New York Democrat primary and has garnered support from AIPAC and moderate Democrats.

Despite trailing in some polls, Bowman’s ties to antisemitic leaders could impact the race closely, according to the Post.

Awad posted about the fundraiser on Facebook, inviting supporters to donate to Bowman’s cause.

The Post’s requests for comment from Bowman’s representatives have not been answered.

Bowman has had a controversial tenure in the House, including a public confrontation with Rep. Thomas Massie and an investigation for obstructing a House vote. Despite these issues, Bowman remains a prominent figure in Congress.