Rep. Hunt Wishes Happy Hanukkah Amid Rising Anti-Semitism

In a tweet, Texas Representative Wesley Hunt (R) wished a happy Hanukkah to those who celebrate while also decrying anti-semitism.

"Amidst the shadows of antisemitism and Israel’s continued fight to defend its homeland, the radiance of Hanukkah shines brighter than ever. To my Jewish friends around the world, Emily and I extend our warmest wishes and blessings to all of you. May this Hanukkah be filled with joy, peace, safety, and an abundance of blessings. - Congressman Wesley Hunt"

Anti-semitism continues to climb worldwide, including in the United States. Several Ivy League schools have faced questioning for the anti-semitic rhetoric being pushed by students and faculty on their campuses. The president of the University of Pennsylvania, Liz Magill, recently resigned after intense questioning from New York Representative Elise Stefanik (R).

Furthermore, many government members have faced scrutiny for being associated with anti-semites. On Dec. 5, the Texas GOP released a statement detailing a series of resolutions condemning anti-Semitism, as well as censuring a fellow congressman and mourning the loss of a colleague.

However, the GOP's resolutions also included the censorship of Texas Representative Andrew Murr (R). Rep. Murr previously brought forth a bill banning party members from associating with Nazi sympathizers.

Those in the GOP who opposed his measure stated his bill was too vague and could cause a “slippery slope.” Rep. Murr’s bill and censorship come after he criticized many members of the Texas GOP for being seen associating with a Nazi sympathizer who promoted war against Jews.

Texas Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick (R) released a statement backing Israel while also expressing dissatisfaction with the State Republican Executive Committee's (SREC) position on anti-semitism.

“I stand with Israel and, as I have repeatedly made my position abundantly clear, I will not tolerate antisemitism. The values of the Republican Party stand with Israel and condemn antisemitism.”

“However, the SREC failed today to pass language presented stating ‘…that the Republican Party of Texas have no association whatsoever with any individual or organization that is known to espouse anti-Semitism, pro-Nazi sympathies, or Holocaust denial.’ This language should have been adopted – because I know that is our position as a Party. I am confident that the SREC will correct this at their next meeting – not affirming this language is totally unacceptable to me.”