Jewish Americans turn to self-defense training after record anti-Semitic attacks

The Anti-Defamation League has noted a troubling rise in anti-Semitic acts, particularly a 39% increase in attacks involving deadly weapons. In response, Jewish Americans are increasingly seeking self-defense training. Daniel Schwartz from the American Jewish Federation and Gail Pearlstein, co-founder of Rocks and Loaded, discussed their collaboration with the NRA to offer firearms education and help create safe community environments. Will Mueller, a veteran from the Marine Corps, highlighted the necessity of proper training.

A Democratic candidate for the U.S. House from Texas has faced backlash from within her own party, following her controversial comments about American Zionists. Maureen Galindo, in a recent Instagram post, suggested converting the Kearns ICE Detention Center into “a prison for American Zionists and former ICE agents for human trafficking.” She described this facility as a potential “castration center for pedophiles,” implying this applied to “most likely Zionists.” Interestingly, she referred to herself in the third person.

Galindo, who works as a sex therapist and housing activist, is competing for a seat in the newly drawn 35th Congressional District, where she’s up against Johnny Garcia in a primary runoff.

Her campaign is heating up, especially with reports emerging that a mysterious super PAC linked to the Republican Party has invested millions to boost progressive candidates seen as likely to succeed in general elections. This particular left-wing PAC promoted Galindo in emails, highlighting her support for dismantling ICE and impeaching President Trump, as Republicans aim to maintain a slim majority in the House, according to the New York Times.

Critics have labeled her comments anti-Semitic, and many fellow Democrats, including the New York Times, have denounced her statements, urging voters to oppose her in the upcoming May 26 runoff against the more moderate Johnny Garcia.

In various social media posts, Galindo has accused Garcia, who has experience as a former hostage negotiator, of wanting to “warehouse Jews and Mexicans.” Moreover, she alleged that “billionaire Zionists” control human trafficking operations in San Antonio and South Texas.

During a recent interview on Texas Public Radio, Galindo defended herself against accusations of anti-Semitism while reiterating her opposition to “Zionist Jews.”

“I’m not an anti-Semite. In fact, my last serious relationship was with a Jewish man,” she remarked, as reported by the Times of Israel. “When I mention the Jews who supposedly own Hollywood, I don’t mean all Jews. It’s about Zionist Jews who hold that influence over media, banks, and political spheres.”

Galindo’s remarks have led to notable figures within the Democratic Party distancing themselves from her campaign.

Texas Representative James Talarico, a prominent candidate for the U.S. Senate, condemned the anti-Semitic rhetoric, stating, “We need leaders from both parties who will stand against hatred, no matter when it arises.” His campaign indicated they would not support Galindo if he secures the nomination.

Rep. Jared Moskowitz from Florida urged Democratic officials nationwide to denounce Galindo’s statements, calling them remarkably alarming. In a post on X, he expressed that the situation should be treated as national news.

Arizona Senator Ruben Gallego also commented on X, asserting that Galindo should never be permitted to hold office.

Attempts to reach out to both Galindo and Garcia for further comments remain pending.