Top Harris aide invokes radical activist who said ‘America deserved 9/11’ while plotting future for Dems

In a recent revelation, a top aide from Vice President Harris’ unsuccessful presidential campaign has highlighted the need for more diverse cultural voices in the political landscape. Rob Flaherty, Harris’ former deputy campaign manager, emphasized the importance of figures like Hasan Piker, a controversial Twitch streamer known for his anti-America and anti-Israel rhetoric.

During an interview, Flaherty expressed concern that Democrats are “losing hold of culture” and outlined a strategy to build a more robust ecosystem of influencers and cultural creators. He suggested that the party should embrace a wide range of voices, including those like Piker, in order to reach a broader audience and shape public opinion.

Flaherty’s call for “more Hasan Pikers” is likely to spark controversy, given Piker’s history of making inflammatory statements. Piker has previously faced backlash for his comments downplaying and justifying terrorist acts, including the 9/11 attacks. Despite issuing apologies for some of his remarks, Piker continues to court controversy with his provocative content.

In one instance, Piker praised the attacker who injured U.S. Rep. Dan Crenshaw, a Navy SEAL veteran, during a live stream. He also made insensitive jokes about 9/11 and expressed sympathy for terrorist groups like the Houthis in Yemen. Piker’s inflammatory rhetoric has drawn criticism from lawmakers and advocacy groups, who have accused him of promoting antisemitism and inciting violence.

Despite these controversies, Piker remains a prominent figure on Twitch, with a large following and significant influence. Flaherty’s endorsement of figures like Piker reflects a growing trend towards embracing unconventional voices in politics and media.

It remains to be seen how Flaherty’s comments will be received within the Democratic Party and the broader political landscape. As the influence of social media personalities continues to grow, the debate over the role of controversial figures like Hasan Piker in shaping public discourse is likely to intensify.

In conclusion, Flaherty’s call for a more diverse and inclusive cultural ecosystem in politics underscores the evolving nature of media and communication in the digital age. By engaging with a wide range of voices, including those that challenge conventional norms, political parties can better connect with a diverse and increasingly fragmented electorate.