Endorsements and Awards Page Scrubbed
In a surprising turn of events, Fox News Digital and other publications have withdrawn their support for the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) following contentious comments made by its leader, Nihad Awad. As a result, the endorsements and awards page on CAIR’s website, which previously boasted glowing recognition from Democrats, has been wiped clean and now displays a ‘404’ error. The page, last captured by the Wayback Machine on December 4, showcased over 100 endorsements from prominent figures such as Senators Chuck Schumer, Elizabeth Warren, Cory Booker, Ben Cardin, and even Vice President Kamala Harris.
Awad’s Controversial Speech
The catalyst for this abrupt shift in support was a speech given by Nihad Awad at the 16th Annual Convention for Palestine in the U.S. In his speech, Awad expressed satisfaction at seeing Hamas attack Israel, asserting that the people of Gaza had the right to self-defense while denying the same right to Israel. These comments caused a stir, leading to the White House removing CAIR as a committed partner in the fight against antisemitism.
Democrats Condemn Awad’s Remarks
Several Democratic lawmakers who had previously associated with or praised CAIR were quick to condemn Awad’s statements. Senators Sherrod Brown, Tammy Baldwin, and Bob Casey, all of whom had been featured on CAIR’s website, expressed their strong condemnation of Awad’s antisemitic comments and reaffirmed their support for Israel’s right to defend itself. They made it clear that they were deeply disappointed in CAIR and distanced themselves from the organization.
CAIR Remains Silent
Despite the mounting controversy, CAIR has chosen not to respond to requests for comment from Fox News Digital regarding the removal of its endorsement page. The organization’s silence only raises further questions about its stance on Awad’s remarks and its commitment to fostering positive relationships with lawmakers.