MAGA Leaders Defend Americans’ Right to Boycott Israel

Key figures from President Donald Trump’s “Make America Great Again” movement have expressed opposition to the bipartisan IGO Anti-Boycott Act, House Resolution 867, arguing that it would criminalize boycotts and free speech against Israel. Following the criticism, a scheduled vote for Monday was called off. Representative Josh Gottheimer’s spokesperson condemned the decision to withdraw the bill, labeling it as an act of bowing to extreme-right influences. Critics argue that the legislation contradicts the First Amendment’s protection of free speech, while supporters claim it is aimed at combatting antisemitic actions like boycotts against Israel. The bill, introduced by Representatives Mike Lawler and Gottheimer, seeks to extend existing anti-boycott laws to include international governmental organizations and impose severe penalties for supporting Israel boycotts. The move sparked debates among lawmakers, with some MAGA members planning to vote against the bill. The cancellation of the vote has left the future of the legislation uncertain.