RNC Chairman Criticizes Democrats Over Antisemitism

Republican National Committee (RNC) Chairman Joe Gruters addressed the issue of antisemitism, claiming that Democrats have let it “fester,” while asserting that the Republican leadership has taken a stand against it. This statement was made during an interview with Breitbart Editor-in-Chief Alex Marlow at the 2026 Republican Jewish Coalition (RJC) National Leadership Summit on August 31. They discussed the upcoming midterm elections and what Gruters described as the Democratic Party’s support for radical socialist, anti-Israel candidates.

Gruters pointed out that although anti-Israel candidates from the right faced significant losses in the primaries, Democrats continued to back far-left candidates who, in his view, are openly antisemitic. He pointed to New York City as a notable example, mentioning the election of Zohran Mamdani, whom he described as one of the most antisemitic individuals in the country. Gruters questioned how long Jewish voters will continue to support a party he believes no longer aligns with their values.

“These leftist radicals are winning from coast to coast,” he stated. “At some point, Jewish voters will need to consider if the Democratic Party genuinely represents them.” Gruters emphasized that there are no moderate Democrats left, pushing the idea that the party has shifted significantly to the left.

He reinforced the notion that Republicans do not support antisemitic figures and consider the Jewish community as allies. Gruters also expressed hope that more Jewish voters would eventually awaken to this reality, which he believes is crucial for maintaining their community’s success.

While discussing the political landscape, Marlow observed that the Democrats’ embrace of their more extreme elements presents an opportunity for the GOP, though he cautioned that these high stakes could have serious consequences if the left prevails.

Gruters concurred, stating, “This race is about common sense versus radical craziness.” He noted that people often reject extremism and prefer candidates who do not resort to divisive tactics.

The RNC Chairman also speculated that Democrats may be elevating their more radical voices in the belief that such figures might better compete against Republican leaders like Donald Trump. He criticized the Democratic agenda as wanting to transform America to align more closely with radical ideas from elsewhere, a departure from traditional American values.

As the conversation turned to the upcoming midterms, Gruters expressed optimism about Republican prospects, especially with President Trump endorsing candidates early in the election cycle. He cited various candidates across the country, expressing confidence in their ability to contest against the Democratic Socialists of America candidates, who he labeled as extreme and out of the mainstream.

He believes Republicans can maintain their slim majority in the Senate and hopes for victories in key races, including Michigan and New Hampshire. Gruters highlighted that Republicans currently have unprecedented financial backing for the midterms, anticipating they will outspend Democrats for the first time in modern history. He stressed the importance of focusing on everyday issues that resonate with American voters, leveraging Trump’s influence to galvanize support.

Gruters concluded that he believes the American electorate will ultimately reject extreme candidates, leading to Republican victories come November.