Michigan Gov. Whitmer Dodges Questions on Nessel-Tlaib Feud, Declining to Address Antisemitism Allegations

Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer refused to take sides in the ongoing feud between Attorney General Dana Nessel and Congresswoman Rashida Tlaib, dodging questions about accusations of antisemitism and bias in Nessel's handling of anti-Israel campus protests.

In a recent CNN interview, Governor Whitmer faced queries from Jake Tapper regarding the allegations leveled by Representative Tlaib against Attorney General Nessel. Tlaib had accused Nessel of bringing charges against anti-Israel campus protesters at the University of Michigan due to her Jewish faith.

Michigan Gov. Whitmer Dodges Questions on Nessel-Tlaib Feud, Declining to Address Antisemitism Allegations

Tapper pressed Whitmer, asking if she agreed with Nessel's assertion that Tlaib's accusation was rooted in antisemitism. However, the governor evaded taking a stance, stating that she would not interfere in the dispute between the two officials.

Whitmer emphasized the importance of protecting both the Jewish and Palestinian communities in Michigan, adding that she aims to ensure that both are respected and protected. When Tapper further questioned if she believed Nessel was not fulfilling her duties as attorney general, Whitmer again declined to comment.

Michigan Gov. Whitmer Dodges Questions on Nessel-Tlaib Feud, Declining to Address Antisemitism Allegations

The governor reiterated her commitment to safeguarding student safety on campuses and upholding their right to free speech. However, she avoided explicitly condemning antisemitism or addressing the specific allegations against Nessel.

Attorney General Nessel, Michigan's first Jewish attorney general, had charged nine university students for refusing to leave anti-Israel encampments despite police orders. They face charges of trespassing and resisting or obstructing a police officer. Two additional individuals were charged with attempted ethnic intimidation and malicious destruction of personal property at a separate protest.

Michigan Gov. Whitmer Dodges Questions on Nessel-Tlaib Feud, Declining to Address Antisemitism Allegations

Representative Tlaib, a member of the 'Squad' and a vocal critic of Israel, denounced the charges, accusing Nessel of bias against the Palestinian cause. In an interview, Tlaib stated that Nessel's actions suggested a lack of fairness in her agency.

Nessel responded by expressing her offense at Tlaib's accusations, which she deemed anti-Semitic and false. She maintained that she performs her duties impartially, regardless of her religion.

Michigan Gov. Whitmer Dodges Questions on Nessel-Tlaib Feud, Declining to Address Antisemitism Allegations

The governor's response to the controversy drew criticism from Anti-Defamation League CEO Jonathan Greenblatt, who reproached Whitmer for not unequivocally supporting Nessel amid allegations of antisemitism. Greenblatt stressed the importance of holding individuals accountable for anti-Semitic behavior and enforcing the law to protect Jewish communities.

The feud between Nessel and Tlaib has highlighted divisions within the Democratic Party over the issue of Israel and the treatment of anti-Israel protesters. Whitmer's refusal to take a clear position on the matter has raised concerns about her commitment to addressing antisemitism and upholding the rule of law.

Michigan Gov. Whitmer Dodges Questions on Nessel-Tlaib Feud, Declining to Address Antisemitism Allegations

As the situation evolves, it remains to be seen how Whitmer and other state officials will respond to the allegations of bias and antisemitism. The governor's stance on the issue could have implications for the ongoing debate over free speech, campus activism, and the protection of minority communities in Michigan.