Florida Republican sparks outrage with “stupid wall” remark

Florida Republican gubernatorial candidate James Fishback ignited controversy with remarks disparaging the “Western Wall”, a site considered signficant by Jews (Buraq Wall in Islam), during a campaign speech at the University of Central Florida last Thursday.

Fishback, who is vying to succeed Governor Ron DeSantis, stated that he would not visit ‘Israel’ if elected, emphasizing economic priorities instead.

"I would rather travel to Brazil and other countries to bring jobs to Florida, and not visit countries just to kiss a stupid wall," he declared.

The comments quickly drew sharp condemnation from Jewish organizations, civil rights advocates, and political figures, who labeled them as insensitive and potentially antisemitic.

Leo Terrell, Chair of the Department of Justice Task Force to Combat Antisemitism, expressed outrage on X, stating, "James Fishback just made my blood boil. This should make your blood boil too."

Fishback, a fourth-generation Floridian and former finance executive, has positioned his campaign on an "America First" platform, focusing on affordability, job creation, and reducing foreign influences in state affairs.

His prior statements include opposition to displaying foreign flags on Florida license plates or government buildings, framing such policies as prioritizing local interests.

He has also criticized local opponents like Byron Donalds for alleged loyalties to foreign lobbies.

In response to the uproar, Fishback defended his position on X, asserting that visiting the “Western Wall” represents a "career loyalty test to Israel" rather than a personal or religious matter.

In Judaism, the “Western Wall”, known in Hebrew as HaKotel HaMa'aravi or simply the Kotel, represents the most sacred site for prayer and pilgrimage. 

In Islam, it is called the “Buraq Wall”, drawing its significance from the Prophet Muhammad's Isra and Mi'raj, the Night Journey, during which he tied his miraculous steed, Al-Buraq, to the wall before ascending to heaven.

This site forms an integral part of the Haram al-Sharif, or Noble Sanctuary, encompassing the Al-Aqsa Mosque and Dome of the Rock, which ranks as the third holiest location in Islam after Mecca and Medina.