Overview
- The California state senator said in a Jan. 11 video on X that Israel’s actions in Gaza constitute genocide, and the clip drew about 2.5 million views.
- A coalition of Sephardic and Mizrahi organizations condemned his characterization and urged his removal, and 30 Years After said it was withdrawing from JPAC.
- Wiener will leave the leadership role on Feb. 15 but remain a member of the California Legislative Jewish Caucus, according to statements released Thursday.
- Caucus co-chair Jesse Gabriel said Wiener made the right decision and emphasized the remarks were made in his capacity as a congressional candidate.
- Wiener is running to succeed Nancy Pelosi in a competitive Democratic primary and says he seeks continued dialogue within the Jewish community despite disagreement over his stance.