Full Breakdown
Tensions Erupt at Religious Liberty Commission Hearing on Antisemitism
2/10/2026, 11:40:31 PM
Overview of the Hearing
On February 9, 2026, the U.S. Religious Liberty Commission held its first public hearing focused on antisemitism at the Museum of the Bible in Washington, D.C. The hearing, attended by a mix of Jewish professionals, Christian activists, and community members, aimed to gather testimonies regarding the rise of antisemitism in American society, particularly in the wake of the October 7, 2023, attacks in Israel. However, the event quickly became contentious, primarily due to the remarks of Carrie Prejean Boller, a commissioner and former Miss California.
Key Exchanges and Controversies
Prejean Boller, a vocal critic of Zionism, questioned witnesses about Israel's actions in Gaza and whether opposing Israel constitutes antisemitism. She notably asked, “Since we’ve mentioned Israel a total of 17 times, are you willing to condemn what Israel has done in Gaza?” This line of questioning drew boos from the audience and sparked heated exchanges, particularly with Shabbos Kestenbaum, a Jewish activist who argued that accusations of divided loyalty between the U.S. and Israel often reflect antisemitic rhetoric.
Boller defended conservative commentators Candace Owens and Tucker Carlson against accusations of antisemitism, stating, “I would really appreciate it if you would stop calling Candace Owens an antisemite. She’s not an antisemite. She just doesn’t support Zionism.” This defense was met with pushback from other commission members and witnesses, who emphasized that such views can perpetuate harmful stereotypes.
Diverse Perspectives
Rabbi Meir Soloveichik, the commission's sole Jewish member, cautioned against generalizing the views of any religious group, stating, “This is an incredibly diverse country... we should be careful about speaking on behalf of all members of a religious community.” He highlighted the importance of recognizing the Jewish connection to Israel, countering Boller’s assertions.
Bruce Pearl, a former basketball coach and founder of the Jewish Coaches Association, expressed concern over the normalization of antisemitic views, stating, “When a society begins to scapegoat, exclude or target a group based on their identity, the decay rarely stops with that group.” He emphasized the need for moral clarity in discussions surrounding antisemitism.
Legal Challenges and Broader Implications
The hearing coincided with a lawsuit filed against the commission, alleging it violates the Federal Advisory Committee Act by lacking religious and ideological diversity. The plaintiffs, including Interfaith Alliance and Hindus for Human Rights, argue that the commission predominantly represents a Judeo-Christian perspective, sidelining other faiths.
The commission, established by President Donald Trump in 2025, is tasked with advising the government on religious liberty issues. Critics argue that its composition and focus reflect a narrow viewpoint that does not adequately address the complexities of religious freedom in America.
Conclusion
The February 9 hearing highlighted significant tensions surrounding the discourse on antisemitism and Israel within the context of religious liberty. As the commission continues its work, the divergent views expressed during the hearing underscore the challenges of fostering a balanced dialogue on these sensitive issues in a diverse society. The outcome of the ongoing lawsuit may further shape the commission's future and its approach to religious pluralism in America.
