Tim Walz Attended CAIR Event with Anti-Semitic Scholar

Democratic vice-presidential nominee Tim Walz, the governor of Minnesota, is facing scrutiny following revelations of his participation in a 2019 event hosted by the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR). At the "Challenging Islamophobia" conference held on March 28, 2019, Walz was photographed with Hatem Bazian, a controversial scholar known for promoting anti-Semitic rhetoric and supporting anti-Israel sentiments. This association has raised questions about Walz's image as a moderate candidate, particularly in light of recent events surrounding Hamas propaganda on college campuses. Bazian, who has been linked to anti-Israel terrorist activities, founded the American Muslims for Palestine, an organization currently under investigation in Virginia for alleged ties to financing terrorism. His presence at the CAIR event, alongside Walz, could undermine the narrative presented by the Kamala Harris campaign and liberal media that portrays Walz as a relatable Midwestern figure. The governor has previously faced criticism for embellishing his military service and his response to the violent protests following George Floyd's death in 2020. The anti-Semitism watchdog group Canary Mission labeled Bazian as "The Most Dangerous Professor in America" due to his history of promoting anti-Semitic tropes. His past statements include calls for an intifada in the U.S. and remarks targeting Jewish individuals in academia. The Harris-Walz campaign has not yet responded to inquiries regarding Walz's association with Bazian and the implications of this connection.