Michigan Senator Responds to Controversial Hot Mic Audio

Michigan State Senator Jeremy Moss has characterized hot mic audio regarding U.S. support for Israel as “manipulated” and “unsourced.”

Moss, a member of the Jewish LGBTQ community, is currently campaigning for a congressional seat previously held by U.S. Rep. Haley Stevens, who is now vying for the Michigan Senate. This marks Moss’s second term serving as President Pro Tempore of the Michigan State Senate.

The audio was initially shared on July 21 by his primary opponent, Aisha Farooqi, on X. In it, Moss purportedly stated that the “whole purpose” of his run was to ensure ongoing U.S. backing for Israel, asserting that “America is not our homeland.”

According to Moss, he expressed a recognition of his cultural ties and the importance of Israel, remarking, “I would say the purpose of my campaign is to make sure America continues to support Israel. I don’t think American Jews are wrong in wanting to put Israel first. America is not our homeland. We were victims of anti-Semitism here.”

Farooqi responded, asserting, “America is my homeland. I am not beholden to AIPAC or foreign lobbies. The entire purpose of my campaign is to ensure that all taxpayer money serves the American people, not the Israeli genocide.”

In response to the accusations from Farooqi and an investigation by the Daily Caller, Moss flatly dismissed the claims in the recording, insisting it misrepresented his views and was aimed at discrediting him as anti-American. He accused critics of promoting harmful narratives, including the “lie of dual loyalty” directed at Jewish Americans.

Moss emphasized his commitment to defending democracy and voting rights, opposing the previous Trump administration, and fostering an inclusive America where everyone can thrive. He highlighted key priorities, including dismantling ICE and working to reduce healthcare costs.

He declared, “I am a proud Michigander. I was born in Detroit and raised in Oakland County. I will not tolerate people using lies to discredit my American story.”

Additionally, he referred to the current political climate as a “dangerous age of disinformation,” arguing against the spread of falsehoods that reinforce personal biases. “Spreading lies because they affirm your own prejudices and beliefs is just as bad whether you’re from the left or the right,” he noted.

“We all have the choice not to spread fabricated images, videos, or audio about candidates or campaigns,” he added. “We all have a role to play in stopping the erosion of democracy.”

The Republican mayor of Troy, Ethan Baker, who is also a candidate in the congressional race, suggested that Moss should clarify the context of his remarks. He mentioned, “It makes sense for State Sen. Moss to have the opportunity to explain what he meant in his hot mic statement,” but cautioned that a campaign should not solely focus on one issue, as diverse representation is crucial.

Baker concluded that the interests of all constituents should be properly balanced and prioritized.