Jimmy Carter To Address The Democratic National Convention Over Jewish Objections

Former President Jimmy Carter will be addressing the Democratic National Convention via video link on September 4. Carter will be addressing the crowd over the objection of multiple liberal Jewish groups over his involvement with anti-Israel activism.

Convention Chairman Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa said in a statement,

“A lifelong champion of human rights and investments in education and energy to spur economic development, President Carter will provide unique insight into President Obama’s ability to move our country forward and why we need his vision and leadership for a second term.”

Anti-Defamation League Chairman Abraham Foxman had harsh words over Carter’s involvement.

Foxman said to Commentary Magazine:

“He is flawed, he’s got an obsession with Israel, a biased obsession that borders on anti-Semitism. So that’s not somebody I think should grace the podium of a national convention. I don’t think he deserves to be there, except it’s hard to refuse a platform to a former living president especially when he asks for it.”

Foxman pointed out that Carter probably lobbied for the speaking slot putting the Democratic National Committee in an awkward position.

NJDC President and CEO David Harris wrote in an e-mail to Commentary Magazine:

“When it comes to Israel and the Middle East, President Carter has unfortunately embarrassed himself — as his analysis and commentary has been stubbornly wrong, harmful to the peace process, and getting worse all the time. I’m confident that he won’t be speaking to the Party about Middle East policy.”

The DNC has said that they expect to hear Carter provide his perspective of President Obama as a global leader, which may further alienate Jewish voters.