Dem candidate caught on camera applauding notorious antisemite’s violent rhetoric

Progressive Newark Mayor Ras Baraka has come under fire after a resurfaced video showed him applauding and embracing radical Nation of Islam leader Louis Farrakhan during a 2004 speech at a Newark church. In the video, Farrakhan can be seen making derogatory comments about White people, calling them “demons” and advocating for violence as retribution.

Farrakhan, known for his inflammatory statements against Jews, White people, and LGBTQ individuals, has a long history of making controversial remarks. He has praised Adolf Hitler as a “great man” and has been criticized for his antisemitic and racist views.

During the speech, Baraka introduced Farrakhan as a major personal inspiration and referred to him as “the leader of every Black person.” He gave Farrakhan a standing ovation multiple times, including after Farrakhan denounced non-violent protests and demonized White people as “the enemy.”

This is not the first time Baraka has given Farrakhan a platform to speak. In 2012, Farrakhan spoke to over 1,000 high school students at Central High School in Newark, where Baraka was principal at the time. In 2017, as Newark mayor, Baraka organized another Farrakhan address titled “Separation or Death,” where Farrakhan called for reparations and a separate state for African Americans.

Despite the backlash, Baraka has defended his association with Farrakhan, stating that the Nation of Islam has made significant contributions to reducing violence and supporting self-determination in marginalized communities. He has also emphasized his commitment to justice, peace, equality, and equity.

Baraka’s campaign website calls for reimagining New Jersey as a state where all residents, regardless of race or gender, can come together. He has pledged to prioritize equity in decision-making as governor, with a focus on deconstructing and reconstructing the state budget with equity as the guiding principle.

While Baraka has not responded to requests for comment, his association with Farrakhan has raised concerns about his judgment and values as a potential gubernatorial candidate. As the election approaches, voters will have to consider Baraka’s past affiliations and statements in determining whether he is fit to lead the state of New Jersey.