WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congressman Eugene Vindman (D-Va.-07) and Congressman Don Bacon (R-Neb.-02) introduced the Violent Antisemitism Threat Assessment Act, a bill that would require the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) to issue a comprehensive report to Congress on the role of antisemitism in violent extremist movements in the United States.
“Antisemitism has long been a dangerous force in extremist movements, and today it is resurging in ways that threaten both Jewish Americans and our broader democracy,” said Vindman. “Violent extremism thrives on dangerous conspiracy theories and antisemitic lies, and Congress needs clear, unflinching information about how this hatred is being weaponized so we can strengthen our response and keep our communities safe.”
“The fight against antisemitism is not a Republican or a Democratic issue, but it’s about being an American. I am glad to co-lead the Violent Antisemitism Threat Assessment Act with Rep. Vindman, which directs the Executive Branch to provide a comprehensive assessment on the rise of violent antisemitism,” said Bacon. “The intersection of violent antisemitism and extremist movements presents a clear and present danger. Our Jewish-American friends deserve more than just words, they deserve our unwavering support and active partnership in ensuring their safety and dignity. When it comes to antisemitism, I refuse to be a bystander.”
“Violent antisemitism is a growing global threat, fueled by extremists who place hatred of Jews front and center,” said Jonathan Greenblatt, CEO and National Director, ADL. “In 2024 alone, ADL tracked 9,354 antisemitic incidents in the United States, the highest number we’ve ever recorded. And according to the FBI, Jews remain the most frequently targeted religious group. Extremist networks are spreading antisemitic propaganda and tactics around the world, recruiting followers, and inspiring violence. The Violent Antisemitism Threat Assessment Act will provide the facts needed to assess the dangers transnational violent extremists motivated by antisemitism pose to all Americans, giving us critical information to respond effectively. We are grateful to Reps. Vindman and Bacon for their bipartisan leadership in standing up for Jewish communities and holding extremists accountable.”
BACKGROUND
This bill will require the Secretary of Defense to submit a report to Congress on the threat posed by violent antisemitism in extremist movements. The report will include an overview of the transnational violent extremist ideologies, a review of violence motivated by such ideologies, and an assessment of the threat that such violence poses to the United States.
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