Congressional Black Caucus Condemns Journalist Rula Jebreal for Racist Remarks

The Congressional Black Caucus (CBC) has condemned Palestinian journalist Rula Jebreal for using "explicitly bigoted language" after she referred to House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries as an "AIPAC monkey" and an "errand boy." In a statement, the CBC asserted that there is "no non-racist way to describe Leader Jeffries - a Black man - as a 'monkey' or an 'errand boy.'" The group added that such rhetoric "normalizes bigotry" and called for an end to platforms that "promote or amplify anti-Black racist discourse, whether from the political right or left."

Jebreal made the remarks during an appearance on the podcast "The Left Hook," hosted by Wajahat Ali, while criticizing Jeffries for his support of Israel. She stated, "He is a monkey that AIPAC bought and paid for," though she quickly added she did not mean it "in a racist way." She further described Jeffries as "basically an errand boy." Ali interrupted her, noting that the word "monkey" carries "terrible racist connotations" when directed at a Black person.

Jebreal attempted to clarify her remarks by referencing the "three wise monkeys" proverb, which traditionally depicts not seeing, hearing, or speaking evil. However, Jonathan Chait, a writer for New York Magazine, argued on X that Jebreal's explanation introduced antisemitic implications, suggesting her "non-racist" interpretation implied "a Black Speaker of the House is just an unthinking puppet of Jews."

Other prominent figures also denounced Jebreal's language. Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley (D-MA) called the description "disgusting and unacceptable under any circumstances." Congressman Ritchie Torres (D-NY) stated unequivocally, "To call a Black man a 'monkey' is racist. Period." Torres also accused elements of the political left of holding double standards regarding Jebreal's comments.