Austin Representatives Boycott Netanyahu’s Congress Address

Austin Representatives Shun Netanyahu’s Address to Congress

Austin, Wednesday, July 24, 2024: In a bold political maneuver, Austin’s congressmen, Greg Casar and Lloyd Doggett, along with several other Democratic lawmakers, boycotted Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s address to a joint session of Congress today.

Address Considered a “PR Stunt”

In a statement released today, Congressman Greg Casar declared Netanyahu’s address a “PR stunt intended to cover up his own failures.” He further underscored his point of view by suggesting that, “The United States must end unconditional military aid to the Israeli government, and instead secure an immediate ceasefire, a return of the hostages, and long-term peace.”

Further reinforcing his stance, Congressman Lloyd Doggett relayed to reporters that he would not be in attendance at the speech. “Instead of coming to meet Trump and speak here, Netanyahu should be in Israel seeking peace and release of all hostages,” Doggett stated. He illustrated his protest by giving his guest pass to a family member of an Israeli hostage. Doggett added, “Netanyahu has abandoned these hostages, as he has obstructed our call for a cease-fire.”

Meetings with US officials Scheduled

Despite the boycott, Netanyahu’s diplomatic schedule remains packed. He is set to have separate meetings with President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris on Thursday, and an appointment with Donald Trump on Friday, according to internal sources.

However, VP Harris’ own decision to skip the address did not go unnoticed. “VPOTUS Harris’s snub of Netanyahu is petty and disrespectful,” was the firm reply of Sen. John Cornyn, R-TX.

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