An antisemitism watchdog group, StopAntisemitism, is urging the Biden administration to dismiss a recently promoted White House official due to his anti-Israel social media posts that have resurfaced. Tyler Cherry, who was recently elevated to the position of associate communications director at the White House, has faced backlash for advocating for the elimination of Israel and promoting anti-Israel sentiments on social media over the years, along with making anti-police comments.
StopAntisemitism founder Liora Rez expressed concern over Cherry's appointment, calling for swift action from the Biden administration. Cherry, who previously worked at the Department of Interior under Secretary Deb Haaland, deleted nearly 2,500 posts on social media following the controversy.
While the White House has expressed support for Cherry, stating they are proud to have him on the team, critics continue to question the vetting process for such appointments. Cherry, in response to the criticism, stated that his past social media posts do not reflect his current views and affirmed his commitment to supporting the administration's agenda, particularly focusing on climate and environmental policies.
Cherry's controversial social media posts include an anti-Israel statement from 2014 and comments on police and immigration issues from subsequent years. The resurgence of anti-Israel rhetoric has been noted following recent events, including attacks by Hamas terrorists on Israeli communities.
StopAntisemitism also highlighted other individuals within the Biden administration with anti-Israel views, such as Maher Bitar, who serves in a prominent role at the National Security Council. The group raised concerns about the potential implications of having individuals with such perspectives in key positions within the White House.
As debates around antisemitism and anti-Israel sentiments continue, the Biden administration faces scrutiny over its handling of personnel appointments and its approach to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.