A planned political rally featuring Rep. Rashida Tlaib, D-Mich., was canceled on Thursday after the Jewish-owned venue hosting the event in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, withdrew its support citing 'increased security concerns.'
The 'Chomp the Oligarchy' rally, scheduled for Friday night—four days before Florida’s primary election—was intended to support three progressive Democratic candidates: State Rep. Angie Nixon (U.S. Senate), Elijah Manley (U.S. House), and Oliver Larkin (U.S. House). The event was organized by groups including the Florida Youth Justice Coalition, Gen-Z For Change, and a local chapter of the Democratic Socialists of America.
Venue withdrawal and stated rationale
The Venue Fort Lauderdale, a Jewish-owned and operated establishment, announced its decision to cancel the event in a statement on Thursday evening. The statement did not name Tlaib but referenced the 'full scope' of the event after reviewing promotional materials. Management cited 'increased security concerns' and emphasized the 'welfare of attendees and staff' as primary factors in their decision. The venue also underscored its 'values and commitment to the Jewish community.'
Political reactions and accusations
The cancellation followed a public statement by State Rep. Michael Gottlieb, D-Fla., chairman of the Florida Legislative Jewish Caucus, who described the rally as an 'anti-Jew' gathering. Gottlieb accused the three candidates of being part of an 'Anti-Israel and Anti-Zionism coalition' and claimed Tlaib 'has by far the deepest record of antisemitic allegations' and was being brought to Florida to 'help these candidates raise funds for their campaigns.'
Tlaib, the first Palestinian American member of Congress, has previously stated that criticism of Israel’s policies—including its occupation of Palestinian territories and military actions in Gaza and Lebanon—does not equate to antisemitism. Her office did not immediately respond to requests for comment following the venue’s withdrawal.
Event relocation and ongoing plans
After The Venue’s cancellation, organizers announced the rally would proceed at a Fort Lauderdale wine bar on Friday night. An organizer confirmed the change but did not provide further details.
The event’s shift comes amid heightened political tensions in Florida, where primary elections are scheduled for August 20. The candidates supported by the rally—Nixon, Manley, and Larkin—are running in competitive races, with progressive groups mobilizing to challenge establishment-backed Democrats.
Background on Tlaib’s role
Tlaib has been a vocal critic of U.S. support for Israel, particularly regarding military actions in Gaza and Lebanon, as well as Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s political alliances with U.S. Republicans. Her positions have drawn both strong support from progressive factions and criticism from lawmakers who argue her rhetoric crosses into antisemitism.
The incident reflects broader divisions within the Democratic Party over its stance on Israel, with some members emphasizing human rights concerns in the region and others warning against rhetoric that could alienate Jewish voters.