Brooklyn, N.Y. – Congresswoman Yvette D. Clarke released the following statement on the nomination of David Friedman as Ambassador of the United States to Israel:

“I oppose the nomination of David Friedman to serve as our Ambassador to Israel. This sensitive position requires sound judgment, experience, and a dedication to promoting the long-standing bipartisan policy of two states for two peoples. David Friedman lacks diplomatic experience and opposes a two-state solution. He has also repeatedly used hateful rhetoric unbecoming of a top diplomat. He insulted the Anti-Defamation League and referred to liberal Jewish groups as “kapos.” When asked to clarify these comments, he doubled-down on this statement by saying that such groups were actually worse than kapos. These comments, along with his lack of diplomatic experience and extreme policy positions, are disqualifying.”

“I oppose this ill-conceived nomination and call upon my colleagues in the United States Senate to oppose Mr. Friedman’s confirmation.”