A recent segment on a prominent cable news program featured host Elex Michaelson commenting on how Georgia Senator Jon Ossoff might “not read as Jewish” compared to other potential 2028 Democratic presidential candidates, such as Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro. The remarks were made during a panel discussion on Tuesday evening.
The conversation, which included Roxanne Beckford Hoge, Chair of the Los Angeles County Republican Party, and political commentator Eric Messersmith, centered on Senator Ossoff's prospects for a presidential bid. This followed recent betting odds placing him second only to California Governor Gavin Newsom among potential contenders.
On-Air Comments Spark Controversy
Hoge voiced skepticism about Ossoff's ability to succeed, citing what she described as the Democratic Party's “playing footsie with antisemites.” Messersmith, however, defended Ossoff, highlighting his disciplined approach and consistent messaging, despite his relative inexperience on the national political stage.
Messersmith further elaborated on Ossoff's Jewish background, suggesting it could enable him to navigate complex issues. “But on the Jewish thing, because he is Jewish, he might be the Democrat that can thread the needle. Because even though he’s Jewish, he’s very critical of the Israeli government, very critical of Benjamin Netanyahu,” Messersmith stated. He added, “He has credibility on that issue. So, it’s possible — I think he could fill that lane in between the two extremes of the Democratic Party.”
Michaelson then responded with the comment that drew significant attention: “Yeah, as a Jew, some people read a little more Jewish than other people, and Jon Ossoff may not read as Jewish as Josh Shapiro does, for whatever that’s worth.”
Widespread Criticism and Apology
The comments from Michaelson and Messersmith quickly garnered criticism, with many perceiving them as an attempt to evaluate Democratic candidates based on their apparent “Jewishness.”
What exactly are we doing here?
Conservative commentator Meghan McCain questioned the nature of the discussion.
Logan Dobson, Vice President at Targeted Victory, remarked on the Democratic Party's stance:
what a deeply weird place the democratic party is in on this issue.
Aviva Klompas, CEO of Boundless Israel, offered a critical interpretation:
CNN anchors, chatting casually: ‘There’s the acceptable Jew, you know the one who denounces Netanyahu and Israel.’ ‘What about Scott Wiener?’ ‘Oh… hahaha. Guess there’s no acceptable Jew,’
Former U.S. ambassador David Friedman highlighted the sensitivity of such phrasing, writing,
Most dangerous and offensive words in the modern vernacular: ‘As a Jew…’
Following the widespread sharing of the clip across social media platforms, Michaelson issued an apology via X, formerly known as Twitter. He stated,
I apologize. I made a comment that was offensive. Going forward, I’ll do better.
Political Context for Potential Candidates
While currently seeking re-election as governor, Josh Shapiro has emerged as a potential contender for the 2028 presidential nomination within a competitive field. His Jewish heritage and vocal support for Israel have, however, drawn criticism from some on the far-left political spectrum.
Senator Ossoff is also facing a re-election campaign in November, amidst speculation about a potential presidential run in 2028. Despite these suggestions, he has consistently denied any immediate plans to seek the presidency.
