1. Bills, Resolutions
2. Letters
3. Hearings & Markups
4. Selected Members on the Record
5. Selected Media & Press releases/Statements
New episodes of FMEP’s Occupied Thoughts Podcasts:
- 2/15/26: Upside-Down Love, human rights work, and living in the West Bank, ft. FMEP Fellow Ahmed Moor in conversation with human rights attorney and writer Sari Bashi about her new memoir.
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1. Bills & Resolutions
None.
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Legislation-related media:
- Axios 2/20/26: Scoop: New Jersey, New York reps [Lawler, R-NY & Gottheimer, D-NJ) will oppose Iran war powers resolution in House
- The Hill 2/19/26: Fine to introduce Protecting Puppies from Sharia Act amid criticism over post; Also see Fine’s 2/19/26 X-post announcing the bill
- Jewish Insider 2/18/26: Reps. Ro Khanna, Thomas Massie plan to force vote on resolution blocking Iran strikes [“‘Congress must do its job and stop this march to war,’ Khanna said“]
2. Letters
- [SLAMMING ‘BOARD OF PEACE’ POWER GRAB] 2/19/26: Markey Slams Trump Administration’s Brazen “Board of Peace” Power Grab [letter text]
- (PROBING TRUMP FAMILY FINANCIAL DEALS WITH UAE) 2/19/26: Rep. Gregory W. Meeks Leads Probe into Trump Family’s $500 Million Deal with UAE-linked Firm [letter text]. Also see Meeks’ X-thread – “American families are struggling to afford everyday bills. Meanwhile, the Trump family’s crypto company made $500 million from an investment firm linked to the UAE government, just before the administration approved sending them advanced AI chips. I sent a letter with 40 other concerned Members of Congress to the Treasury Secretary because we need to know who this Administration is really working for – the American people or their mob boss?“
- (ACCOUNTABILITY FOR AMCIT TEEN DETAINED/ABUSED BY ISRAEL) 2/18/26: Welch, Van Hollen, Castor Lead 12 Bicameral Colleagues in Demanding Accountability for Israel’s Detention and Abuse of Palestinian American Teenager Mohammed Ibrahim [letter text]
3. Hearings & Markups
None.
Israel/Palestine & related
- Hagerty (R-TN) 2/20/26: X-post – “It was an honor to speak at the Judeo-Christian Zionist Leaders Congress in Nashville this week. The bonds of alliance between the United States and our friends in Israel remain stronger than ever.“
- Graham (R-SC) 2/20/26: Middle East Eye X-post w/ video clip – “‘Just flatten it. We flattened Berlin. We flattened Tokyo.’ In an interview with Sky News Arabia, US Senator Lindsey Graham defended Israel’s genocide in Gaza, comparing the actions used by the US and its allies during World War II“
- Pocan (D-WI) 2/19/26: X-post – “Congratulations, @AIPAC. You’ve fully devolved into a liability to the people you endorse. Toxic. Was covering for the barbaric behavior of Netanyahu worth it?“
- Graham (R-SC) 2/16/26: X-post – “Thank you, my friend. Foreign Minister @gidonsaar is a good man who loves Israel and the United States. He is doing great work for the people of Israel.” Responding to a 2/26/26 post by Israeli Foreign Minister Saar: “Senator @LindseyGrahamSC is one of the most influential American senators and also one of Israel’s greatest friends in the US and around the world. It’s always good to meet with him, and so it was during his current visit to Israel. Lindsey possesses a clear geopolitical vision, alongside a distinct moral dimension regarding our region and beyond. We’ll continue working together to strengthen the interests of Israel, and our ally, the United States.”
- Graham (R-SC) 2/16/26: X-post – “Promising.” Commenting on 2/15/26 New York Post article, Syrians warm up to US and Israel under new regime, poll finds
- Welch (D-VT) 2/15/26: X-post – “Even though he’s in this country legally, the Trump Administration is still attempting to deport Mahmoud Khalil because of his activism against the war in Gaza. Like Mahmoud, we must keep fighting to protect free speech in America.“
- Balint (D-VT) 2/15/26: X-post – “I was grateful to reconnect with Mahmoud Khalil last week as he continues to fight for his 1st amendment rights. Speaking up for what you believe in is not a crime. We stand with you, Khalil.“
- Murphy (D-CT) 2/15/26: X-post – “At the Munich Security Conference this weekend, I told a hard truth. There is no ceasefire in Gaza. The assault continues. Palestinians continue to die. And Trump is issuing glossy brochures about fake future Gaza real estate deals instead of working to end the war.“
- House Foreign Affairs Committee (GOP) 2/15/26: X-post – “The U.N. is rotten to the core. Instead of stamping out antisemitism, it continues to back organizations that push antisemitic, anti-Israel propaganda. As the General Assembly continues to relentlessly target Israel, the UN’s credibility as a peacekeeping body dwindles by the day.” Commenting on 2/15/26 Fox News article, Waltz calls UN a ‘cesspool for antisemitism’ as Trump administration pushes major reforms
- Fine (R-FL) 2/14/26: X-post- “Palestinian is a synonym for evil.” Commenting on a 2/13/26 Daily Mail Article, My Hostage Nightmare — NOTE: See below for the pushback against Fine for an Islamophobic X-post. That pushback stands in stark contrast to the TOTAL SILENCE in response to this post dehumanizing every single Palestinian man, woman, child — whether they live in the U.S., Gaza, the West Bank, or anywhere else. And think about what that silence means, in the context of the ongoing genocide Israel has been carrying out against Palestinians in Gaza for more than 2 years; the escalating terrorizing and ethnic cleansing Israel is carrying out against Palestinians in the West Bank and East Jerusalem; and the targeting of organizations and individuals working to defend Palestinian lives/rights, including human rights organizations and activists.
- Stefanik (R-NY) 2/14/26: X-post – “Don’t let the world forget the heinous atrocities committed by Hamas.” Commenting on a 2/13/26 Daily Mail Article, My Hostage Nightmare
- Stefanik (R-NY) 2/14/26: X-post – “Deeply disturbing. We need more voices strongly condemning this taxpayer funded antisemitism from the NYC Mayor’s office. ‘A NYC manufacturer that supplies drones to Israel to monitor the Gaza Strip border was booted from the city-owned Brooklyn Navy Yard six weeks after pro-Palestine Mayor Zohran Mamdani took office.‘” Commenting on a 2/13/26 New York Post article, City Hall boots Israel drone supplier from Brooklyn Navy Yard — after Mamdani took office
- Stefanik (R-NY) 2/13/26: X-post – “This is not accountability. This is the moral and academic rot of the revolving door of failed “elite” higher education. More on just how bad Magill’s leadership was is featured in the UPenn chapter in my upcoming book POISONED IVIES publishing by @simonschuster on 4/14“. Commenting on 2/13/26 Politico article, She Resigned as Penn President After a Controversial Hearing. Now She’s Back.
Iran
- Lawler (R-NY) 2/20/26: X-post – “GOTTHEIMER AND LAWLER JOINT STATEMENT ON IRAN WAR POWERS RESOLUTION“
- Evans (D-PA) 2/20/26: X-post – “President Trump is failing to address Americans’ everyday needs: lowering prices and making health care affordable. Now he’s threatening to strike Iran, risking servicemembers’ lives and potentially dragging our country into an ill-conceived ‘forever war.’“
- Kaine (D-VA) 2/20/26: Kaine Statement on Trump’s Threat of Illegal War with Iran
- Foushee (D-NC) 2/19/26: X-post – “Trump’s threats of strikes on Iran are not acceptable. Congress must stop him before we are launched into another disastrous war. I am a cosponsor of @RepRoKhanna and @RepThomasMassie’s War Powers Resolution and will support the discharge petition to prevent Trump from putting servicemembers in harm’s way.“
- Smith (D-WA) 2/19/26: X-post – “Donald Trump should not start a war with Iran.”
- Kustoff (R-TN) 2/19/26: X-post – “For years, Iran has been the bully in the Middle East. They have threatened Israel and targeted U.S. personnel and assets across the region. The Iranian regime can either end their aggression or face the full consequences of their actions. Thank you @WolfBlitzer and @CNN for having me on.“
- McCaul (R-TX) 2/19/26: X-post – “Iranians deserve far better than a regime that attempts to shroud its violent suppression in technological darkness. As President Trump weighs various actions in Iran, I commend the admin for continuing to ensure those responsible for these atrocities face consequences.“
- Velazquez (D-NY) 2/19/26: X-post – “Without a single vote in Congress, the Trump admin is building up the largest military force in the Middle East since Iraq. The American people do not want another catastrophic regime change war. We must pass a War Powers resolution. No war with Iran.“
- Fallon (R-TX) 2/19/26: X-post – “We cannot allow Iran to continue with uranium enrichment and its missile program. Both are a threat to US forces, and our allies & partners in the Middle East. The Ayatollah’s terrorist regime is the greatest barrier to peace and prosperity in the region.“
- Clyburn (D-SC) 2/19/26: X-post – “As Americans live paycheck to paycheck, Trump is preparing the U.S. for a costly potential war with Iran. We had a deal limiting Iran’s nuclear program. Trump tore it up in 2018 and is now threatening military action without Congressional approval.“
- Evans (D-PA) 2/19/26: X-post – “I strongly oppose Trump’s dangerous escalations against Iran. The Constitution is clear – Congress, not the president, has the authority to declare war. I will support Rep. Khanna’s discharge petition to bring a bipartisan War Powers Resolution to the House floor and rein Trump in.”
- McGovern (D-MA) 2/19/26: X-post – “The Iranian regime is awful and has committed horrific human rights abuses. But bombing Iran in the name of freedom and democracy is as naive as it is stupid. Look at what’s happening in Venezuela. Same regime—one dictator replaced with another. Enough already! NO MORE WAR!”
- Bera (D-CA) 2/19/26: X-post – “The American people do not want to be pulled into another prolonged conflict in the Middle East. I strongly support the people of Iran who are fighting for freedom and a better future. That said, the Administration must come to Congress before taking action that puts American lives on the line.“
- Plane (D-CA) 2/19/26: X-post – “If President Trump intends to risk the lives of our servicemembers by going to war with Iran or anyone else, he needs to come before Congress and present a plan. Anything else is a violation of our laws and a disregard for the safety of our troops.“
- Bacon (R-NE) 2/19/26: X-post – “Throwback Thursday to a presser on Iran: We lost over 600 Americans to Iranian proxy forces during Operation Iraqi Freedom. More than 600 families suffered the loss of a son, daughter, husband, wife, mother, or father. Americans cannot forget what Iran has done, and we should not rest until this regime is out.“
- Massie (R-KY) 2/19/26: X-post – “Article I, section 8, clause 11 [The Congress shall have Power] To declare War, grant Letters of Marque and Reprisal, and make Rules concerning Captures on Land and Water Which means, to initiate war requires Congress. There’s no imminent threat from Iran to invoke 1973 WPA.“
- Harrigan (R-NC) 2/19/26: X-post – “The Islamic Republic rules by fear at home and force abroad. It jails dissidents, crushes protests, and arms proxy militias across the region, then demands to be treated like a normal government. Iran is an ancient, proud nation, and it deserves leaders who answer to their people, not a regime that survives by silencing them.“
- Cruz (R-TX) 2/19/26: X-post – “To see the mullahs toppled would be a tremendous advance for the people of Iran and the Middle East. But most critically, it would be a massive improvement in the national security of the United States.“
- Warren (D-MA) 2/19/26: X-post – “The American people voted for lower prices, not another war in the Middle East. But Trump is itching to go to war with Iran. The Constitution is clear: the president doesn’t have the authority to start a war without Congress’ approval. I won’t support another endless war.“
- Tlaib (D-MI) 2/19/26: X-post – “No war with Iran! Trump’s illegal warmongering will only bring death and destruction. This is a disaster in the making and we must do everything in our power to stop it. Pass a War Powers resolution. Organize. We must rebuild the anti-war movement.“
- Kim (D-NJ) 2/18/26: X-post – “What does going to war with Iran get you? Does it make you safer? Does it make it easier to pay your bills? Does it make you more optimistic about your future? Trump is bringing our country to the brink of war with no reason, no plan, and no regard for you.“
- Kim (D-NJ) 2/18/26: X-post – “The American people do not want to go to war with Iran. This is another dangerous escalation by Trump without a clear plan or consent from Congress. A reminder to the President: you don’t get to unilaterally decide when we go to war.“
- Casar (D-TX) 2/18/26: X-post – “The American people do not want a war with Iran. My entire adult life, politicians have been sending other people’s kids — our U.S. troops — to die in reckless, endless wars. Enough.“
- Jayapal (D-WA) 2/18/26: X-post – “NOT without authorization from Congress. The American people do not want another war.”
- McGovern (D-MA) 2/18/26: X-post – “Americans don’t want a war with Iran. We want lower prices, better health care, more jobs, and affordable housing. We want leaders who are on OUR side—not the billionaire Epstein-class!“
- Ansari (D-AZ) 2/18/26: X-post – “Islamic Republic regime officials complicit in violent crackdowns and internet blackouts shouldn’t be welcomed into the United States. Visa restrictions are a step toward accountability. We must keep standing with the people of Iran demanding freedom and dignity.”
- Beyer (D-VA) 2/18/26: X-post – “Trump is threatening to take America to war with Iran unless they make a deal like the one he tore up in 2017 to give up the nuclear weapons program he claimed to have “completely and totally obliterated” a few months ago. No war with Iran.“
- Baumgartner (R-WA) 2/18/26: X-post – “Thanks to our brave airmen and President Trump’s leadership, Iran’s nuclear program was dealt a very serious blow in “Midnight Hammer”, however it’s extensive ballistic missile program and support for terrorist groups still remain a dire threat to US national security interests.”
- Khanna (D-CA) 2/18/26: X-post – “Trump officials say there’s a 90% chance of strikes on Iran. He can’t without Congress. @RepThomasMassie & I have a War Powers Resolution to debate & vote on war before putting U.S. troops in harm’s way. I will make a motion to discharge to force a vote on it next week.“
- Van Hollen (D-MD) 2/18/26: X-post – “Again, the ‘No New Wars’ president seems to be on the verge of attacking another country. Trump may’ve told Netanyahu about his plans, but only Congress has the power to declare war. Dragging us into another destabilizing war in the Middle East is what Trump pledged NOT to do.“
- Garamendi (D-CA) 2/17/26: X-post – “Let’s remember how we got here with Iran. Donald Trump torpedoed the Iran nuclear deal in his first term. Now he’s threatening military action and putting American service members’ lives at risk to renegotiate it. Stop the wars. End the senseless violence.“
- Markey (D-MA) 2/17/26: X-post – “Trump claims he wants a deal with Iran, not war. That’s B.S. We had a great deal with Iran on its nuclear program in 2015, but Trump tore it up and then bombed Iran last summer. Trump is a dangerous warmonger that must be stopped.”
- Mullin (R-OK) 2/17/26: X-post – “President Trump does not bluff with Iran. He also does things on his own time. He believes in giving the USA options to maximize peace through strength. At the same time, he knows we can’t have another Hillary Clinton Arab Spring. We stand with the freedom-loving people in Iran.“
- Fallon (R-TX) 2/17/26: X-post – “Iran’s regime funds terrorism and gives China & Russia a dangerous partner in the Middle East. They’re racing to rebuild nuclear facilities despite setbacks. Under President Trump, maximum pressure is back. Decisive action now will protect US interests.“
- Fallon (R-TX) 2/17/26: X-post – “The Iranian regime has been a menace to the region through its support for terrorist proxies and pursuit of a nuclear weapon. The Ayatollah’s penchant for sowing destruction and chaos has done nothing for the people of Iran. The Iranian people deserve freedom.“
- Graham (R-SC) 2/14/26: X-post – “I was incredibly honored to be able to speak in Munich, Germany at a rally of 250,000 supporting the brave Iranian people. Being in the company of so many demanding freedom and justice was inspiring and one of the highlights of my life. I have chosen the Iranian people over the ayatollah. I believe they could be good allies of the United States and would march the region toward the light. I believe the ayatollah is a religious Nazi, who would keep the region and the world in turmoil. He’s a religious fanatic who wants to purify Islam, destroy the Jewish people and come after the United States, which he refers to as the Great Satan. 2026 is the time of choosing. I’ve chosen the brave Iranian people over their oppressor. I do believe help is on the way.“
Syria
- Senate Foreign Relations Committee (Dems) 2/14/26: READOUT: Ranking Member Shaheen, Senators Tillis, Coons, Murphy and Kelly, Representatives Himes and Jacobs Meeting with Syrian Foreign Minister al-Shaibani and Commander of Syrian Democratic Forces
United Arab Emirates
- Graham (R-SC) 2/18/26: X-post – “To those who are perpetuating false narratives against the United Arab Emirates and President Sheikh @MohamedBinZayed personally, you are full of it. I met with him today for an hour and a half. Not only is he alive, but he is also well and as sharp as I’ve ever seen him. To those powers that feel the need to attack MbZ and the UAE for doing the right thing – you do so at your own peril. Our meeting today was very enjoyable and informative. We discussed the historic moment that is facing the region. I told him how much I appreciated his courage and vision to create an Islamic country that can be integrated into the world in a win-win fashion, both for the people of the UAE and for those who visit and do business with the country. However, there are other voices in Islam that have the darkest vision of mankind. Those voices are distinctly in the minority, in my view. MbZ’s decision to embrace the Abraham Accords and to modernize his country while still maintaining the faith is the biggest change in the Middle East in my lifetime. What the United Arab Emirates have done to try to integrate the region with the whole world is one of the bravest and most consequential decisions any Middle Eastern leader has made. I was very candid with MbZ that he cannot do this by himself. Other people in the region have to buy-in to what’s happening with the UAE, not just be casual observers. To the region: Understand that history is about to be made. President Trump wants a region that looks more like the UAE and less like the Ayatollah. The region can only move forward if it follows the vision that embraces the light instead of going backwards into the darkness. The UAE’s vision for the Middle East and the 2030 vision previously expressed by the Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia is something I would fully embrace because it would be great for South Carolina, and great for America. The forces that are merging here recently are trying to undercut the movement toward the light. They are going back to the old way of doing business, playing cheap politics. Your actions have not gone unnoticed by me or others. If this continues, it will do enormous damage to the best opportunity I’ve seen in hundreds of years to change the Middle East for the better. Finally, to those who believe that the region still flourishes if the ayatollah’s regime survives, I could not disagree more. If this religious Nazi regime in Iran still stands after all this bluster and the people are shut out and continue to be oppressed, it puts everything we’ve worked for at risk, including the Abraham Accords. Now, I am off to Saudi Arabia where I look forward to meeting with the Crown Prince who has shown a lot of courage and wisdom and has embraced, in the past, a vision that will forever change the Middle East for the better. Time will tell as to what happens.”
- Ernst (R-IA) 2/16/26: X-post – “This is a completely false rumor. UAE President MBZ is a brave leader and dear friend. He has charted a path towards greater peace and cooperation in the Middle East and deserves better than nasty online rumors that are intended to stoke chaos.”
- Graham (R-SC) 2/16/26: Speaking in Jerusalem, via @clashreport on X (with video clip): “Bibi wanted me to tell the press that he’s amazed by the level of cooperation and the significance of the partnership of the United Arab Emirates with Israel — that MBZ has done everything asked and then some, that they’ve been a stalwart partner, a reliable partner under difficult circumstances. And I want to go there tomorrow, acknowledge MBZ’s leadership, and suggest that America improve its capability to defend the United Arab Emirates and the region.”
- Van Hollen (D-MD) 2/14/26: X-post – “The RSF murdered 6,000 people in the city of El Fasher in only 3 days. What more will it take for the Trump Admin to act? Congress must pass my & @RepSaraJacobs bill to halt US arms sales to the UAE until we know they have stopped arming the RSF’s slaughter in Sudan.“
Islamophobia: Randy Fine — and some pushback
- On 2/15/36, Fine (R-FL) posted on X: “If they force us to choose, the choice between dogs and Muslims is not a difficult one.“
- Ten minutes after posting this, Fine added, “For context, this is the leader of one of the key mainstream Muslim groups that supported Mamdani” with a screenshot from a post from Palestinian activist Nisreen Kiswani 2/12/26 reading: “Finally, NYC is coming to Islam. Dogs definitely have a place in society, just not as indoor pets. Like we’ve said all along, they are unclean.” Two hours after posting that, Kiswani had added: “Lmao at the Zionists frothing at the mouth at this, thinking they’re doing something. It’s obviously a joke I don’t care if you have a dog, I do care if your dog is shitting everywhere and you’re not cleaning it. Also clearly trying to weigh in on an issue unaware of the current nyc discourse where we’re collectively (jokingly) hating on dogs given all the visible dog shit in the unmelted snow lmao“.
- Commenting on Fine’s post re: dogs v. Muslims, Kiswani posted 2/15/26: “Randy fine posted this genocidal statement about me. Thing is, no one is forcing you to choose. He’s just like the millions of other racists hounding me this past week, looking for a reason to be Islamophobic. Just replace Muslims with any other religion and ask if this is ok.”
- Further commenting on Fine’s post and his subsequent defense of that post and the media around it, Kiswani posted a thread 2/16/26: “Some people are rewriting the timeline around the ‘dog discourse,’ so here are the actual receipts. I did not start this conversation. I stepped into one that NYC politicians, media, and thousands of residents were already having. Feb 11: @nypost reports NYC sidewalks turning into “dog poop minefields.” [NY Post article] | Feb 11: Councilmember @CMShahanaHanif calls dog waste a public health hazard. [link to post] | Feb 12: Councilmember @OsseChi tells dog owners to “pick up your f*cking dog shit.” | Feb 12: In the middle of that hyperlocal discourse, I post a joke. | Feb 13: NY Post covers the controversy while quoting multiple officials already discussing the issue. [NY Post article] | Daily Mail publishes a more inflammatory story and later changes its headline after being notified it was defamatory. [Daily Mail article] | As that article circulated, large political figures began directing hate toward me Randy Fine Laura Loomer And many Zionists organizations and individuals. It was a clearly targeted astroturfing campaign that capitalized on the concept of a “ban” when I never used the word.”
- Kiswani also noted 2/16/26 in a post: “I keep getting called a key Mamdani advisor without any of the perks. It’s like when they say I’m funded by Qatar/Soros/Iran like where’s my check?? Illiterate boomers really turned my joke into a national headline.” She later posted, jokingly: “To whom it may concern, Effective immediately, I am resigning from the position many of you seem convinced I hold. While it has been an honor to apparently wield this level of imaginary authority, I believe it is time to step aside so the public may recover from the trauma of a tweet. I wish my successor the best in this critical role.”
- Kiswani also pointed out the contrast between the performative outrage Fine and his supporters are unleashing over her joke about dogs on X, and their silence over Kristi Noem’s story about shooting and killing her dog. After reportedly receiving death threats, she also posted, “Death threats over dogs from people who never uttered a word about animals killed in Gaza. 97% of Gaza’s animal life has been wiped out. But I don’t expect anything from people who don’t even care about humans in Gaza. In fact, they cheer on their deaths.” She noted in another post: “It’s genuinely strange watching how fast the conversation shifted from the Epstein regime and powerful people escaping accountability… …to a completely manufactured outrage cycle about me ‘banning dogs.’ These people don’t even have this energy for actual pedophile…“
- Many, many Democrats responded to Fine’s posts (including by calling for censure and/or resignation, including: Kenyatta (D-PA), Barragan (D-CA), Pocan (D-WI), Garcia (D-CA), Meng (D-NY), Meng (D-NY), Swalwell (D-CA), Menendez (D-NJ), Veasy (D-TX), Olszewski (D-MD), Brown (D-OH), Khanna (D-CA), Ansari (D-AZ), Boyle (D-PA), Pou (D-NJ), Rosen (D-NV), Cortez Masto (D-NV), Watson Coleman (D-NJ), Ramirez (D-IL), Scanlon (D-PA), Goldman (D-NY), Khanna (D-CA), Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY), Khanna (D-CA), Van Hollen (D-MD), Min (D-CA), Lee (D-PA), McIver (D-NJ), Kenyatta (D-PA), Pocan (D-WI), Pocan (D-WI), Carson (D-IN), McGarvey (D-KY), Pocan (D-WI), McIver (D-NJ), Clark (D-MA), Chu (D-CA), Aguilar (D-CA), Kim (D-NJ), Garamendi (D-CA), Quigley (D-IL), Pocan (D-WI), Schneider (D-IL), Jewish Democrats, Friedman (D-CA), Torres (D-CA), Moore (D-WI), Vargas (D-CA), Foushee (D-NC), Elfreth (D-NC), Neal (D-MA), Larson (D-CT), Kennedy (D-NY), Frankel (D-FL), Schneider (D-IL), Krishnamoorthi (D-IL), Jeffries (D-NY)
- NOTABLY: As of this writing, NO Republicans in either the House or Senate have spoken out to criticize or otherwise oppose Fine’s post(s). On the other hand, some House Republicans weighed in to agree with Fine: Self (R-TX) 2/18/26 – “You will not take away our dogs. You will not take away our individual liberties. And you will certainly not impose any form of Sharia on the American people.“; Stutzman (R-IN) 2/19/26 – “Dogs are a man’s best friend and a staple of the American family. Anyone who doesn’t agree can go bark up someone else’s tree.“; Self (R-TX) 2/19/26: “Dogs are a gift from God. I stand with @RepFine.“
- ALSO NOTABLY: As of this writing there has been no similar pushback against fine for his post, a day earlier before the dog-related post, dehumanizing every Palestinian man, woman and child (discussed above).
- In response to criticism, Fine has doubled down/escalated — including: here, here, here, here, here, here, here, here, here, here, here, here, here, here, here, here, here, here, here, here, here, etc…
- On 2/19/26, Fine announced on X: “I am proud to introduce the Protecting Puppies from Sharia Act. Democrats are losing their minds because I made a simple statement—given a choice between our dogs and those who would ban them, the choice is easy. They can pound sand. This bill will ban federal funds to any state or local government that considers dogs ‘haram.’ Proceed accordingly, Mamdani.” [Reminder: Mamdani has NEVER SAID A WORD ABOUT BANNING DOGS]. Reps. Roy (R-TX) and Self (R-TX) announced they are co-sponsoring [Self: “Proud to cosponsor this bill. In America, we cherish dogs—loyal companions, beloved family, and yes, true gifts from God. Any foreign ideology that tries to strip Americans of our right to own dogs is not welcome here.“]
- Zeteo’s Mehdi Hassan called BS on Fine’s response to Tapper, posting on X: “It’s insane how much these people lie. To try and justify his racist genocidal rhetoric Fine claims Kiswani is ‘a key Mamdani advisor’ (she isn’t), that she said ‘we must give up our dogs’ (she didn’t), and then pretends that justifies him suggesting Muslims are lower than dogs.” Yashar Ali noted: “Yes, a sarcastic post (and even if it were serious) from a woman with 40,000 followers on this app should lead a member of Congress from Florida to comment on it as if she were an elected official or a commentator with significant influence. Is she an elected official, Joey? Is she the host of one of the top ten podcasts?” Zeid Jilani noted: “There is not a single Muslim country or country period that bans dogs. The rights media is full of making up something to get mad at.“
Islamophobia – Other Stuff
- Gill (R-TX) 2/19/26: X-post w/ video – “Sharia Law is incompatible with America“
- Self (R-TX) 2/13/26: X-post – “Under Sharia, there are no individual rights or freedoms. We cannot allow it to influence our communities or local governments because once accommodation begins, intimidation follows.“
Munich Security Conference
- Jewish Insider 2/17/26: On the mainstage in Munich, 2028 presidential hopefuls Murphy, Ocasio-Cortez direct ire at Israel
- New York Times 2/16/26: After First Big Overseas Trip, Ocasio-Cortez Expresses Frustrations
- Bloomberg 2/15/26: AOC Tests Foreign-Policy Waters at Munich Conference
- Haaretz 2/14/26: Ocasio-Cortez Tells Haaretz: Unconditional U.S. Military Aid to Israel Enabled Genocide in Gaza [“Speaking at the Munich Security Conference, Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez criticized ‘unconditional’ U.S. aid to Israel, linking it to civilian deaths in Gaza, and called for enforcing the Leahy Laws, which prohibit aid to foreign units committing gross human rights violations”]
- Fox News 2/14/26: AOC accuses Israel of genocide in Germany where Holocaust was launched, sparking outrage
- New York Post 2/14/26: AOC accuses Israel of ‘genocide’ while in Germany — the home of the Holocaust: ‘Shocking ignorance’
- The Guardian 2/13/26: Ocasio-Cortez says US military aid to Israel ‘enabled a genocide in Gaza’
- The Hill 2/13/26: Ocasio-Cortez says ‘unconditional’ US aid to Israel ‘enabled a genocide in Gaza’
Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – GENERAL
- The Hill/Rep. Manning (D-NC) 2/20/26: Victory and backing Israel aren’t conflicting goals for Democrats — they’re the same
- The Nation 2/20/26: The Primary Win That Stunned Democrats Everywhere [“Analilia Mejia’s stunning upset victory in New Jersey offers invaluable insights about the past and present of liberal politics in America.“]
- The American Prospect 2/20/26: Pro-Palestine Super PAC Brings Multimillion-Dollar War Chest to Midterms [“American Priorities is targeting multiple races across the country and spending significantly on congressional primaries in North Carolina and Texas.“]
- Jewish Insider 2/20/26: AIPAC gathers top donors amid scrutiny over recent political decisions [“Netanyahu and Lapid are slated to address the convening via video, along with senior congressional leaders and a representative from the Trump administration, according to an AIPAC source“]
- Jewish Insider 2/20/26: Sen. Lindsey Graham defends Israel’s Gaza war, draws WWII comparisons
- Democratic Majority For Israel PAC 2/19/26: DMFI PAC Announces 2026 Majority Project; Endorses First Slate of Non-Incumbent Candidates for the 2026 Cycle
- Politico 2/19/26: Pro-Israel group wades into Democratic House primaries
- The Bulwark/Tom Malinowski 2/19/26: A Cautionary Note to Fellow Dems From an AIPAC Target [“How big-money super PACs are warping Democratic politics—and how to fix it.“]
- The Intercept 2/19/26: A New PAC Wants to Counter Israel’s Influence. It Also Welcomes Hitler Apologists. [“AZAPAC’s Michael Rectenwald wants to fight pro-Israel interests in politics. To do that, he’s courted Nick Fuentes and endorsed white nationalist candidates.“]
- The Hill 2/18/26: Why the bipartisan consensus on Israel is under threat
- Washington Post 2/18/26: AIPAC under the microscope
- Jewish Telegraphic Agency 2/17/26: As a Zionist, I want Congress to have more Ritchie Torreses and fewer Rashida Tlaibs. Doesn’t AIPAC?
- Moment 2/17/26: How a New Jersey Primary Became the Face of Future Pro-Israel Advocacy
Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – New Jersey
- The Hill 2/16/26: Blaming AIPAC for Malinowski’s loss misses the mark
- Zeteo 2/15/26: AIPAC’s Colossal Own Goal [“The Israel lobby just replaced a moderate Zionist and former member of Congress with a harsh critic of Israel. Smart!”]
- New Jersey Globe 2/15/26: Passaic Dems endorse Mejia for full term; Way doesn’t screen for endorsement
Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – Illinois
- WCPT 2/19/26: AIPAC-linked donors help fuel Illinois Donna Miller’s fundraising haul in Illinois congressional race
- Politico 2/19/26: House Democrat withdraws endorsement in Chicago-area race over AIPAC funding; also see coverage in: The Forward, Chicago Sun-Times, Jewish Insider, Jewish Telegraphic Agency
- Common Dreams 2/18/26:
- Daily Northwestern 2/18/26: Democratic congressional candidates clash over AIPAC at Chicago forum
- Daily Northwestern 2/18/26: Biss, Illinois Democratic candidates blast reported AIPAC involvement in congressional races
- Washington Post 2/18/26: AIPAC accused of covert campaigning as Democratic support falters [“Democrats in Illinois say the American Israel Public Affairs Committee is meddling in their races.“]
- Jewish Insider 2/18/26: Illinois primaries test pro-Israel spending after AIPAC’s NJ loss [“These four races will be something of a temperature check of the mood towards Israel in Democratic primaries“]
- Jewish Insider 2/17/26: Daniel Biss defends decision not to dispatch police to break up Northwestern encampment
- Forest Park Review 2/17/26: AIPAC cash to Conyears-Ervin in 7th District sparks upset
- Evanston Roundtable 2/16/26: Mayor Biss will brief congressional committee on NU encampment response [also see Biss’s letter to Chair of House Committee on Education & Workforce, responding to 1/28/26 letter from the Committee, covered in the 1/30/26 edition of the Round-Up]
- Evanston Roundtable 2/15/26: Biss and Fine taking opposite approaches to TV ads in February [“Elect Chicago Women and another recently-created super PAC, “Affordable Chicago Now,” are reported to be funded by the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC), which has supported Fine’s campaign with fundraising but has not publicly endorsed her. Biss and Abughazaleh have repeatedly called attention to Elect Chicago Women to attack Fine, as both highlight that AIPAC has taken donations from Republican donors to spend big in Democratic primaries.“]
- Patch 2/13/26: When Palestinian Constituents Speak, Congress Looks Away: Letter [“Congressman Casten presents himself as thoughtful and humane towards the Palestinians but ignores Israel’s mass killing of Gaza civilians.”]
- The Handbasket 2/13/26: “The day of accountability will come”: Rep. Delia Ramirez on abolishing and prosecuting DHS [“I asked Rep. Ramirez if she would be endorsing a candidate in the hotly contested primary in her neighboring district, IL-09. She said ‘I’m probably going to stay out because there’s so many progressives and amazing people running there. But I am telling you bluntly that I don’t want to see Laura Fine go to Congress, and we need to take on AIPAC. And I believe that Illinois is primed to show AIPAC that no longer can they continue to be a foreign lobby harming people and using their power, using their MAGA Republican money, to continue to bomb children and literally keep these politicians on a chokehold and under control, and that the community is not going to let them continue to elect these people.'”]
Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – New York
- New York Jewish Week 2/18/26: Dan Goldman, in heated NY-10 primary, defends his pro-Israel stance as consistent with his ‘progressive values’
- The Indypendent 2/16/26: Here’s Why Darializa Avila Chevalier Can Win Another Shocking Upset for the Left in NY-13 [“Darializa Avila Chevalier stands in stark contrast to Espaillat. Where he is old and tired, she is young and energetic. Where he is cautious and clings to Democratic orthodoxies, she is bold and unapologetically pro-working class. Where he takes money from a raft of wealthy special interests, she is funded by small-dollar donors. Where he has unconditionally supported Israel, she was one of the organizers of the 2024 Gaza solidarity encampment at Columbia as a former student at that university.“]
Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – North Carolina
- The American Prospect 2/20/26: North Carolina Congressional Race Shows Perils of Big-Money Support
- NBC News 2/20/26: New super PAC [“American Priorities”] launches to counter AIPAC spending in Democratic primaries
- Jewish Insider 2/18/26: In North Carolina’s Research Triangle, pro-Israel voters at a loss [“Rep. Valerie Foushee was backed by AIPAC, but has since turned against supporting Israel. Her Democratic opponent is a virulently anti-Israel activist“]
- Jewish Insider 2/18/26: Left-wing congressional candidates band together in Illinois, aiming to counter moderate momentum and pro-Israel spending [“Daniel Biss, Robert Peters, Junaid Ahmed and Anthony Driver Jr. are running on anti-AIPAC mantle“]
- The Chronicle 2/16/26: Despite ‘tough times,’ Bernie Sanders, Nida Allam tout unity at Durham rally [“‘She’s cashing in checks from all the same companies as a MAGA Republican,’ Allam said, noting that Walmart, Lockheed Martin and AstraZeneca have donated to Foushee’s campaign, and that she has accepted money from the American-Israel Political Action Committee in the past, despite her pledge not to accept AIPAC money during the 2026 election cycle.”]
- WRAL News 2/13/26: Bernie Sanders speaks in Durham, backs challenger against NC Democrat in Congress [“Foushee won after political action committees backed by cryptocurrency billionaire Sam Bankman-Fried and the Israel lobby poured millions of dollars into ads on Foushee’s behalf. But now Bankman-Fried is in prison for fraud, and Foushee has since sworn off the American Israel Public Affairs Committee. The group has fallen out of favor with some Democrats due to its support of Israel’s war in Gaza and AIPAC’s support of Republicans who defended the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on Congress. McKissick told WRAL that the focus on AIPAC’s past support of Foushee is overblown, saying she doesn’t vote on issues based on who is backing her campaign or not. That goes for AIPAC or any other group, he said.“]
Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – Texas
- Jewish Insider 2/20/26: Democrats poised to oust Israel critic Al Green from Texas congressional delegation [“Rep. Christian Menefee is the favorite against Rep. Al Green in next month’s primary; Green has consistently voted against Israel since Oct. 7″]
- Jewish Insider 2/19/26: How an anti-Israel Republican with an antisemitic history could get elected in Texas [“An unfolding scandal involving Rep. Tony Gonzales could cost him his seat at the hands of a far-right social media influencer“]
- Austin Weekly News 2/17/26: AIPAC cash to Conyears-Ervin in 7th District sparks upset
- Houston Public Media 2/16/26: U.S. Rep. Sylvia Garcia appears on course to win Democratic primary in TX-29, despite redistricting [“…the candidates didn’t agree on everything. Slater, and to a lesser extent Johnson, were sharply critical of U.S. support of Israel and said they would not accept campaign funding from the American Israel Public Affairs Committee — better known by its acronym, AIPAC. Garcia demurred when asked a similar question, saying she had accepted donations from AIPAC in the past but had not received any in the current cycle.“]
Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – California
- Tahoe Daily Tribune 2/13/26: Chris Bennett, candidate for CA-03, discusses platform with the Tribune [“Bennett said many of his platforms he was running on were linked to defending democracy. ‘I swore an oath to defending democracy and the constitution against all enemies, foreign and domestic. And while I have grown a lot in my views of American foreign policy, I am still proud of my service. And I want people to feel good that they served, not to deal with PTSD and moral injuries because we were doing war crimes in foreign countries.’ That’s one of the reasons Bennett says he is not interested in taking AIPAC or corporate money. ‘We should not be sending our money to foreign countries to hurt people, especially in violation of international humanitarian law, when we could be using that money to help people here,’ he said. ‘We need to get big money out of politics, and that includes not allowing foreign countries to influence our internal affairs.'”]
Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – Georgia
- Local 3 News 2/15/26: Voters hear from Republican candidates in Georgia’s 14th Congressional District special election [“‘AIPAC is a large question that I’ve gotten throughout this entire campaign. In fact, I think it is the most common question that I’ve gotten. I can’t say that I have taken any AIPAC money, and I do not have any plans to take AIPAC money,’ said Jenna Turnipseed, a Republican candidate.”]
Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – Maryland
- NGO Report 2/16/26: Maryland Concerned Citizens: Hidden Pro-Israel PAC Exposed
Saudi Arabia, Iran, UAE, Etc.
- Jewish News Syndicate 2/16/26: Sen. Graham reassures Israel: Trump, Netanyahu are of one mind on Iran
- i24 News 2/16/26: US Senator Graham: ‘There is no light between Trump and Netanyahu on what to do and how to do it’
- Jewish Insider 2/16/26: ‘We’re on the verge of eliminating’ Iranian regime, Lindsey Graham says
- Jewish Insider 2/16/26: Lindsey Graham calls on Saudi Arabia to ‘knock it off’
- Forbes 2/14/26 (VIDEO): ‘There’s No Negotiating With These People’: Lindsey Graham Defends Military Action Against Iran
Rep. Fine (R-FL) Makes Headlines for Islamophobic Post
- Haaretz 2/20/26: Against Our Jewish Values’ — Jewish Groups Denounce GOP Rep. Randy Fine’s ‘Abhorrent, Racist and anti-Muslim Remarks’
- Jewish News Syndicate 2/20/26: Calls for censure of Jewish congressman who suggested he values dogs over Muslims [“Randy Fine is a disgrace to the United States Congress,” House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries wrote.]
- Florida Politics 2/19/26: Sharia Free Caucus rallies around Randy Fine amid censure threats
- The Floridian 2/19/26: Sheriff Mike Chitwood Rescinds his Endorsement of Randy Fine
- New York Magazine 2/18/26: Randy Fine Faces Calls to Resign Over Islamophobic Remark – Congressman’s Odious Islamophobia Gets a Pass From GOP
- Dayton Beach Journal 2/18/26: Hakeem Jeffries urges GOP to hold ‘bigoted’ Randy Fine accountable
- Axios 2/17/26: Scoop: Dems eye forced vote to censure Randy Fine
- The Hill 2/17/26: Randy Fine faces censure and resignation calls over post on Muslims and dogs
- The Independent 2/17/26: Republican congressman from Florida urged to resign over derogatory social media about Muslims
- Truthout 2/17/26: Lawmakers Call for Rep. Randy Fine’s Censure After Racist Anti-Muslim Tweet
- Washington Times 2/17/26: Democrats howl over Randy Fine’s Muslim post
- Common Dreams 2/17/26:
- Mediaite 2/16/26: Republican Randy Fine Faces Bipartisan Backlash Over Disgusting Anti-Muslim Post [NOTE: “Bipartisan” in this context does not include any GOP members of Congress]
- NBC News 2/16/26: Republican congressman’s anti-Muslim remark prompts calls for his resignation
- The New Republic 2/16/26: MAGA Congressman Makes Sick Post About Muslims and Dogs [“Republican Representative Randy Fine twisted a harmless joke into a racist attack on Muslims—just days before Ramadan.“]
- Newsweek 2/16/26: Gavin Newsom Demands ‘Racist Slob’ Randy Fine Resign
- News Daytona Beach 2/16/26: Randy Fine Criticized for Islamophobic Tweet
- First Coast News 2/16/26: Rep. Randy Fine’s controversial post draws accusations of Islamophobia, calls for resignation
- KOMO News 2/16/26: Florida Rep. Fine faces backlash for tweet about dogs being preferable than Muslims
Other stuff
- Beirut Calling 2/19/26: A Peace Only in Name – Individuals and institutions in Washington are mounting a risky campaign to show that a Lebanon-Israel settlement is close. [“What we are seeing with the peace crowd is not a sinister cabal, but a tried and tested Washington lobbying effort, deploying a familiar modus operandi. They have created an information loop, where a small number of people is generating and sharing a message that Lebanon is ready for peace with Israel, one that it then spreads through media outlets, other forums, and even Congress to create a legitimized talking point. The only problem is that virtually none of these people has set foot in Lebanon for quite some time, seems to care that what they are promoting is wholly detached from Lebanese realities, or has considered the very real risks of forcing an Israeli peace on a fragile and fragmented Lebanon.“]
- North State Journal 2/19/26: Rep. Virginia Foxx sued by suspended Columbia student
- Jewish Insider 2/17/26: Lawmakers alarmed by Barrack’s Turkey tilt in his Middle East diplomacy