Democratic Lawmakers Engage in Heated Exchange over Israel-Hamas Resolution: Exchanging Insults of ‘Coward,’ ‘Punk,’ and ‘Despicable’

Democratic Congressman Slams Colleague as “Coward,” “Punk,” and “Gangster” in Ongoing Dispute over Israel Support

In a shocking turn of events, Democratic Rep. André Carson from Indiana launched a scathing attack against his fellow Democratic Rep. Josh Gottheimer from New Jersey. Carson referred to Gottheimer as a “coward,” “punk,” and “gangster” in response to Gottheimer’s criticism of lawmakers who voted against a resolution condemning Hamas and supporting Israel.

Carson was one of 16 lawmakers who either voted “no” or “present” on the resolution following the deadly attack by Hamas on Israel on October 7. Gottheimer expressed his disappointment with the Democratic members who refused to condemn the brutality of Hamas, calling them “despicable.”

In a recent segment of CNN’s “Inside Politics,” host Manu Raju revealed that Carson reacted to Gottheimer’s statement by labeling it as “cowardly.” Carson accused Gottheimer of being overly emotional and posturing in front of the cameras. He challenged Gottheimer to a conversation but doubted the latter’s willingness to engage.

Refusing to back down, Gottheimer responded to Carson’s comments, expressing his willingness to sit down and discuss how they can bring all Americans held hostage home, provide humanitarian aid to Palestinian civilians, and combat Hamas and other terrorists.

According to a Democratic leadership source, there are plans for Gottheimer and Carson to meet later in the week to discuss these matters. Confirmation is yet to be received from their respective offices.

Along with Carson, several other Democratic lawmakers voted against the resolution, including Reps. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, Ilhan Omar, Rashida Tlaib, Jamaal Bowman, Summer Lee, Cori Bush, Al Green, and Delia Ramirez. On the other hand, Reps. Greg Casar, Ayanna Pressley, Joaquin Castro, Nydia Velázquez, Jesús “Chuy” Garcia, and Pramila Jayapal voted “present.”

The resolution, which affirmed U.S. support for Israel and condemned Hamas, ultimately passed with an overwhelming majority in a 412-10 vote. Rep. Thomas Massie was the sole Republican who voted against the resolution, citing concerns about exacerbating the conflict. However, he later clarified his condemnation of the Hamas attack and his support for Israel’s right to defend itself.

This ongoing dispute highlights the deep divisions within the Democratic Party on the issue of Israel and could have significant implications for the future of U.S. foreign policy in the Middle East.

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Lindsay Kornick is an associate editor for Fox News Digital. Story tips can be sent to [email protected] and on Twitter: @lmkornick.