The co-owner of a luxury car dealership in Florida has come under fire for allegedly making anti-Semitic remarks in a text message to a customer.
Naveen Maraj, co-owner of Champion Motorsports and Champion Porsche in Pompano Beach, is said to have sent a message after a customer indicated he might buy from another dealer.
In the troubling text, Maraj reportedly wrote, “But as always, you act like a spoiled Jew. You think you are special, but you are not. It’s like a God’s gift that you haven’t bought a car from me.”
Observers reacted strongly, with a commentator on social media emphasizing that such displays of anti-Semitism are unacceptable in business and suggesting that clients should look elsewhere.
Following the backlash, General Manager Mike Peters stated to a local outlet that Maraj is stepping down from his managerial position. He stressed the need to uphold standards in their business practices.
Peters described Maraj’s comments as “aggressive and unforgivable.” However, he noted that Maraj had a personal friendship with the customer involved, named John Wolf.
Despite this personal connection, Peters acknowledged that intentions do not excuse the impact of Maraj’s words. He emphasized that the language used was improper and does not align with the longstanding values of their company, which has been established for over 38 years.
Furthermore, Peters explained that Maraj and Wolf had enjoyed a friendship for more than 14 years, even bonding over fishing trips. Still, he recognized that such comments, made in a casual setting, could be misconstrued or deemed inappropriate.
Wolf told reporters he and Maraj had not communicated in six years, expressing disbelief that such phrases would be tolerated in friendship. In a final remark, Peters acknowledged the weight of Maraj’s words, regardless of context or intent, and conveyed regret for any discomfort caused, including a personal apology from Maraj to Wolf.
