HOUSTON Texas Lieutenant Governor and conservative Republican candidate for re-election, Dan Patrick, released the following statement Monday:
“Since the October 7th attack on Israel by Hamas terrorists, Texans have been horrified and outraged at the brutal slaughter of innocent civilians of all ages. As a longtime supporter of Israel, I share that outrage.
“I am equally appalled about what I am learning about the anti-Semitic activities among some in Texas who call themselves conservatives and Republicans.
“Recently, I condemned Nick Fuentes, an avowed anti-Semite, when I learned he had met with the President of Defend Texas Liberty PAC (DTL). I was assured changes would be made. I have also learned there are other so-called Republicans who share these hateful beliefs and are trying to spread their anti-Semitic views within the GOP.
“Let me put this as clearly as I can — if you are anti-Semitic, if you admire Hitler and don’t believe the Holocaust happened in Europe, if you hate Jews, you are NOT a Republican and you are not welcome in our party.
“Every Republican group in the state, no matter how small or how large, including our State Party, needs to root out this cancer. Before anyone is hired or appointed to a position of leadership, in addition to their resume and work record, their social media needs to be reviewed. Those who are anti-Semitic are not welcome in our party.
“There are Democrats in Washington who are openly supporting the Hamas terrorists. Democrat leaders have not censored or condemned those squad members who call Israel an apartheid state and blame them for the war. In Texas, the State Senate passed a resolution unanimously on October 9th condemning the terrorist attacks and supporting Israel’s right to defend itself. I am very proud that was a bipartisan vote.
“In 2016 I visited Israel, met with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, spoke to the Knesset, and spoke with businesses doing trade with Texas. Texas’ relationship with Israel is strong and I am committed to making sure it remains strong.
“Today I am announcing my campaign is purchasing $3 million in bonds for Israel. Israel needs our help now in the fight against terrorism.”
