Backlash Against DSA Co-chair’s Comments on Hamas-Led Attack

The Democratic Socialists of America (DSA) co-chair Megan Romer is facing criticism for her comments on the events of October 7 in Israel. During an interview with David Remnick of The New Yorker, Romer stated that the massacre led by Hamas was largely “inevitable.” Her remarks have sparked condemnation from pro-Israel groups and drew attention due to a recent related event in New York City.

In the interview, Romer discussed democratic socialist Darializa Avila Chevalier, who participated in a pro-Hamas rally after the terrorist attack. When asked by Remnick if she would have joined the rally, Romer said, “That’s a good question. I probably would have.” Despite not residing in New York City, Romer expressed support for attending such events.

Remnick further questioned Romer about her stance, noting the timing of the rally following the slaughter of 1,200 people and the taking of over 200 hostages. Romer explained, “I think that Oct. 7 was largely inevitable. If you put people in an open-air concentration camp and you deprive them of rights, of dignity, of food, of the ability to live in safety, you have to expect that they are going to not take that for that long.” However, she stated her comments were not meant to defend harm against civilians or non-combatants.

Morton A. Klein, President of the Zionist Organization of America, also weighed in, agreeing partially with Romer’s notion of inevitability, but attributing the cause to different reasons. Klein cited the election of Hamas by Gazans, financial and military support from Qatar and Iran, and other factors as contributing to the attacks. He argued that Hamas’ refusal to disarm and ongoing threats may lead to further violence.

The Anti-Defamation League (ADL) shared its condemnation of Romer’s comments through social media, highlighting the risk her statements posed to Jewish Americans. The ADL also criticized Romer for attending a rally just one day after the attack and characterized her language as downplaying the severity of the violence.

Rabbi Yaakov Menken, Executive Vice President for Coalition for Jewish Values, described the DSA as “objectively antisemitic” and criticized Romer for using false narratives to rationalize violence. Menken’s comments aligned with the sentiments of other pro-Israel leaders who have voiced concerns over the influence of radical groups in mainstream politics.

Alexander Hall, associate editor for Fox News Digital, contributed to these reports. Tips can be directed to his email at [email protected].