The Antisemitism Awareness Act bill must be passed by Chuck Schumer

Current Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer is prioritizing the confirmation of numerous Biden-appointed judges before the Republican takeover in January. However, Democrats should prioritize principle over power by making time for a floor vote to pass the bipartisan Antisemitism Awareness Act.

Schumer aims to surpass Mitch McConnell’s record for judicial confirmations in a single four-year term. Democrats, in general, want to shift the nation’s courts left-leaning before potential GOP resistance.

While political maneuvers are expected, blocking the antisemitism bill is still unacceptable.

The House passed the bill in May with a significant majority: 320-91.

Schumer’s delay in passing the bill is due to opposition from the left-wing of his party, concerned about alienating anti-Israel voters.

The bill would require the federal Education Department to use the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance working definition of antisemitism when enforcing federal anti-discrimination laws.

Given the rise of “anti-Zionist” activities on campuses, the need for this measure is urgent to combat thinly-veiled antisemitism.

However, Schumer has only committed to passing it as part of a larger, essential bill, which dilutes its moral impact.

The IHRA definition highlights the connection between anti-Zionism and antisemitism, a connection some Democrats have sought to downplay since Hamas’ terrorist attacks over a year ago.

Despite condemning antisemitism, Schumer has faced challenges in addressing the issue and has made controversial statements about Israel.

Schumer, as a self-proclaimed guardian of the Jewish people, has a chance to redeem himself by pushing for the bill’s passage.

Take a stand, Chuck, and do what is right. The moral necessity of this bill makes the delay unacceptable.

Following the recent events in Amsterdam, which showed the lack of distinction between the Jewish state and Jews, passing this bill is crucial.

Furthermore, with indications of Kamala Harris losing Jewish support, passing this bill could be politically advantageous.

If Schumer genuinely wants to live up to his reputation as a guardian of the Jews, he must bring this bill to a full floor vote. With overwhelming bipartisan support, it will send a powerful message against institutional tolerance of antisemitism.