Congressman’s Coffee Shop Visit Sparks Debate Over Israel Support

Representative Dan Goldman encountered unexpected controversy after visiting a small coffee shop chain in New York City. The visit became contentious when the shop’s owner made critical comments about the congressman on social media.

Goldman, facing a strong primary challenge from Brad Lander due to his past associations with AIPAC, stopped by Poetica Coffee in Williamsburg, Brooklyn on a Sunday. This visit occurred outside his district, accompanied by his 7-year-old daughter. It was the last day for voters to cast their early ballots for the Democratic primary.

Soon after, Poetica shared an Instagram post written by the shop’s owner, using a sharp tone to express disapproval. The post included an image of Goldman looking at his phone by the cash register, seemingly from a security camera.

We see that you stopped by our shop today for a coffee. Do you see how it doesn’t taste like genocide juice? Or are you still having a hard time telling the difference?

The post stated, We don’t serve racists, fascists, homophobes, genocide enablers or anyone in between. Too bad we didn’t recognize you right away, or we would have turned you away.

This incident underlines the ongoing tension regarding support for Israel in New York’s progressive and largely Jewish congressional district. Goldman’s stance on Israel is a divisive topic in his re-election bid for the 10th District, which includes areas of Lower Manhattan and Brooklyn.

Goldman responded to the Instagram post, explaining that he visited Poetica so his daughter could use the restroom and purchased a coffee as a token of gratitude to an employee for granting them access.