Josh Gottheimer Presses Brad Lander on 'Globalize the Intifada' and NYC Grocery Stores

Condemnation of 'Globalize the Intifada'

• 🎯 Rep. Josh Gottheimer questioned NYC Comptroller Brad Lander regarding the phrase "globalize the intifada," which Gottheimer characterized as an antisemitic slogan linked to violence.
• 🗣️ Gottheimer pressed Lander for an outright condemnation of the phrase as a call to violence against Jewish people, noting the rise in antisemitic incidents.
• ⚖️ Lander stated he would not support legislation to ban the phrase but expressed a personal condemnation, wishing people would not use it and that it is "open season against Jews."

NYC Public Grocery Stores

• 🛒 Gottheimer questioned Lander's support for a plan to open pilot public grocery stores in New York City, citing concerns about competition with existing small businesses.
• 🍎 Lander explained the initiative aims to address food deserts and provide access to affordable, nutritious food in areas lacking grocery stores.
• 📈 Lander acknowledged the importance of local businesses, including bodegas and grocery stores owned by immigrants, and expressed a desire for them to thrive.

Economic Policies and Commuters

• 🚗 Gottheimer raised concerns about the impact of policies like the congestion tax on New Jersey commuters traveling to New York.
• 🚇 Lander stated he does not support recent fare increases at the MTA, expressing worry about the financial burden on individuals.
• 📈 The discussion touched upon the potential economic harm of supporting movements like BDS and divesting from Israeli bonds.