Full Breakdown
Controversy Erupts Over Dr. Oz's Claims Against Armenian-Owned Businesses
1/29/2026, 12:18:51 PM
Overview of the Incident
California Governor Gavin Newsom is reviewing a video posted by Dr. Mehmet Oz, which has sparked controversy for allegedly targeting the Armenian American community in Southern California. In the video, Oz claims to have uncovered extensive fraud in the hospice and home care sectors, specifically implicating businesses in the Van Nuys area, including a local bakery owned by Movses Bislamyan. Following the video's release, Bislamyan reported a significant 30% drop in customer traffic, attributing this decline to Oz's claims.
Claims and Allegations
In the video, Oz asserts that there is approximately $3.5 billion in fraud occurring in Los Angeles, suggesting that much of it is orchestrated by the "Russian Armenian mafia." He filmed segments directly in front of Bislamyan's bakery, Sherman Way Marketplace, which he used as a backdrop for his allegations. Bislamyan vehemently denied any connection to criminal activity, stating, "We have nothing to do with it. It has nothing to do whatsoever with the grocery store."
Oz's assertions have drawn sharp criticism from various quarters, including the Armenian National Congress in Southern California, which expressed concern over the potential for racial profiling and discrimination against the Armenian community. Newsom's office echoed these sentiments, stating, "Given the historic sensitivities involved, we are taking these allegations seriously. Any and all acts of hate have no place in California."
Official Responses
In response to the controversy, Newsom's office indicated that they are taking the claims seriously and are investigating whether Oz's comments constitute a targeted attack on Armenian-owned businesses. Newsom's statement on social media highlighted the gravity of the situation, emphasizing that the state does not tolerate hate speech.
Dr. Oz, who serves as the head of the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, defended his position, claiming that the Trump administration is committed to addressing healthcare fraud. He stated, "If there were a real defense for California's fraud crisis, we'd hear it," asserting that law enforcement will continue to pursue fraudsters.
Criticism and Opposition
Critics of Oz's video have pointed out that his comments may perpetuate harmful stereotypes about the Armenian community. Bislamyan expressed disappointment in being associated with criminality, stating, "There is no Armenian mafia going on here. We're just hard-working businessmen." The backlash against Oz's video has raised questions about the implications of his statements, particularly given the historical tensions between Turkish and Armenian communities.
Conflicting Reports
While Dr. Oz claims that there are 42 hospices within a four-block radius in Van Nuys, which he argues indicates fraudulent activity, Governor Newsom has countered that his administration has already taken steps to combat fraud in the hospice sector, including banning new hospices and revoking licenses. This discrepancy highlights the ongoing debate regarding the extent of fraud in California's healthcare system.
Conclusion
The controversy surrounding Dr. Oz's video and its impact on the Armenian American community continues to unfold. As investigations proceed, the implications of Oz's claims and the responses from state officials will be closely monitored, reflecting broader societal issues related to race, community, and healthcare fraud.
