Full Breakdown
Bipartisan Push to Oust Bernie Sanders from Holocaust Museum Board
1/19/2026, 11:03:17 PM
Overview of the Situation
Senator Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) has faced bipartisan criticism for his failure to attend any meetings of the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum’s board since his appointment in 2007. This absence has prompted a group of board members to advocate for his removal, citing concerns over his engagement and public statements regarding Israel.
Details of Non-Attendance
Sanders has been a member of the Holocaust Memorial Council for 18 years, a body that convenes twice annually to oversee the museum located in Washington, D.C. Records obtained by the New York Post indicate that he has not attended a single meeting during his tenure. Fellow board member Robert Garson remarked, “There are two large meetings every year where people fly in from all over the country for it. But Bernie Sanders couldn’t be bothered to walk across the road in DC.” This sentiment was echoed by board member Jonathan Burkan, who humorously noted that while 18 is a significant number in Judaism, it is not favorable in this context.
Calls for Replacement
A letter signed by a dozen board members, including Garson and Burkan, has been sent to Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) requesting Sanders' replacement. The letter emphasizes the need for board members to be fully engaged, especially in light of rising anti-Semitism and Holocaust distortion globally. Alex Heckler, a Democratic appointee, stated, “This is not a partisan issue, just common sense,” criticizing Sanders for not reflecting the museum's mission.
Criticism of Sanders' Statements
Critics have pointed to Sanders' public comments regarding Israel, particularly his accusations of genocide in Gaza, as further justification for his removal. His statements have raised concerns among board members about the appropriateness of his continued membership. Jimmy Resnick, another board member, questioned why Sanders retains his position when he does not participate, stating, “It’s like a non-existent position.”
Context of Board Membership
The Holocaust Memorial Council comprises 55 members appointed by the President and 10 congressional leaders. While Sanders is one of ten Jewish senators, his critics argue that there are many other qualified individuals who could fulfill the role more effectively. Notably, other senators, such as Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.) and Tim Scott (R-SC), have also missed several meetings, but their attendance records are better than Sanders'.
Conflicting Reports on Attendance
While Sanders' absence has been a focal point of criticism, it is worth noting that he is not the only absentee member. Reports indicate that Rosen has attended only two of the last ten meetings, and Scott has missed the last 13. The discrepancy in attendance raises questions about the overall engagement of Senate-appointed members on the council.
Verbatim Quotes
- “There are two large meetings every year where people fly in from all over the country for it. But Bernie Sanders couldn’t be bothered to walk across the road in DC,” — Robert Garson, Board Member
- “This is not a partisan issue, just common sense,” — Alex Heckler, Board Member
- “Why take someone’s place who will show up? I just don’t understand it,” — Jimmy Resnick, Board Member
The ongoing discussion surrounding Sanders' role on the Holocaust Memorial Council highlights the intersection of political engagement, public statements, and institutional responsibilities in the context of significant historical and cultural issues.
