<p>Representative Ro Khanna (D-CA) is urging Democrats to focus on critical issues rather than attacking Hasan Piker, stating that such attacks could demotivate progressives during the upcoming election cycle. Khanna emphasized the importance of not repeating past mistakes, referencing the low voter turnout among Democrats in the 2016 and 2024 elections.</p>
<p>In a post on X, Khanna stated, "Quit calling @BernieSanders an ‘antisemite.’ Stop wasting time attacking Hasan Piker instead of Trump’s robber baron corruption." He also expressed concerns about the influence of pro-Israel advocates on the Democratic Party's Middle East policy, questioning whether the party represents corporate interests or the American people.</p>
<p>This statement comes amid ongoing internal divisions within the Democratic Party regarding Israel and accusations of antisemitism. Piker, a socialist online personality, has faced criticism for comments suggesting that Jewish Americans supporting Israel are inviting violence upon themselves. At least ten prominent Democrats, including House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-NY), have condemned these remarks, with Jeffries labeling them as dangerous and antisemitic.</p>
<p>Progressives have attempted to downplay Piker's influence by referring to him as merely a "Twitch streamer." Khanna, who has previously appeared on Piker's stream, has not publicly addressed the recent controversy surrounding him. However, Khanna has criticized the appointment of Rep. Jared Moskowitz (D-FL), who is Jewish and pro-Israel, to a significant committee overseeing U.S.-Israel relations.</p>
<p>Moskowitz was appointed as the ranking member of the House Foreign Affairs subcommittee on the Middle East and North Africa. Should Democrats regain control of the House in the upcoming elections, Moskowitz would be in a position to chair the panel, which would grant him significant influence over legislation and oversight related to Israel and the region.</p>
<p>Former Obama adviser Ben Rhodes commented on the appointment, suggesting it sends a negative message from Democratic leadership to the party's voters.</p>