Discussion on Joe Kent’s Resignation

During Tuesday’s broadcast on CNN News Central, Rep. Jim Himes (D-Conn.), who serves as the ranking member of the House Intelligence Committee, commented on the resignation of National Counterterrorism Center Director Joe Kent. Himes remarked that Kent’s departure “reflects the traditional anti-Semitic trope of Jews controlling this and that and controlling the media.” However, he also acknowledged Kent’s willingness to resign for his beliefs, calling it a rare occurrence within the Trump administration.

When discussing whether Kent’s assertion that Israel was responsible for involving the United States in Operation Epic Fury was accurate, Himes admitted he couldn’t verify the claim. Co-host Brianna Keillor pressed him further, asking, “Kent is saying — let me say it again, the Israelis brought the United States into the Iraq war. Do you believe that?”

Himes responded, “Look, I – again, I have no way of knowing what the prime minister said to the president.”

Keillor then suggested that the content of Kent’s resignation letter should be more closely examined, indicating Himes might not have read it thoroughly before expressing his support for Kent’s principles. Himes confirmed that he had indeed read the letter.

Keillor continued, “What I’m asking is, do you think this is a completely valid argument, or do you think there’s a lens through which you view some of Kent’s dissent differently because of how fervently anti-Israel he is?” She pointed out that critiques of Kent stem partly from his past associations, mentioning his connections to white supremacists that he had to disavow during his campaign. “What do you think about that scrutiny?” she asked.

In response, Himes said, “Well, look, I’m not the kind of person who can comment directly on Joe Kent. I’ve been in the same room with him a couple of times, and I know his history. But there are two things that I know to be true. First, I understand where the Israeli prime minister stands on Iran’s issues—he’s been very vocal about it. Secondly, I need to read Joe Kent’s letter carefully. Unfortunately, his words seem to play into the classic anti-Semitic narrative about Jewish control, which is troubling, especially considering the rise of anti-Semitism today.”

Keillor then posed a question regarding whether Democrats might be risking praise for someone whose views they don’t fully endorse. Himes replied, “If you want. Again, I have my differences with Joe Kent, and I’ve had many disagreements with him, but I support him for being willing to step down for his principles. That’s something rare in this administration. You don’t often see that in Congress, either. So, while I commend his resignation, it doesn’t mean I endorse all his beliefs. Principles matter.”