Gov. Whitmer Remains Neutral Amid Feud Between AG Dana Nessel and Rep. Rashida Tlaib

Controversy Stirs in Michigan

In an escalating feud between Michigan’s Attorney General, Dana Nessel, and Representative Rashida Tlaib (D-Mich), Governor Gretchen Whitmer chose not to take sides. The tension rose following accusations made by Rep. Tlaib against AG Nessel for allegedly showing bias in charges brought against anti-Israel protesters at the University of Michigan because of her Jewish faith.

Governor’s Response to the Matter

Gov. Whitmer was asked about the controversy in a recent interview on a nationally broadcast talk show. When queried about the allegations against Nessel, Whitmer declined to comment on the matter, stating, “I’m not going to get in the middle of this argument.”

Whitmer did, however, express the emotional toll the conflict has taken on the Jewish and Muslim communities in Michigan. “I know that seeing the incredible toll that this war has taken on both communities has been really, really challenging and difficult, and my heart breaks for so many,” the Governor said.

Details About the Dispute

Nessel, who is Michigan’s first Jewish attorney general, had charged nine students who refused to clear anti-Israel encampments at the University of Michigan in May, despite police orders. The reports indicate the charges against these individuals include trespassing and resisting or obstructing a police officer. Two others were charged with attempted ethnic intimidation and destruction of personal property during a separate anti-Israel demonstration.

Rep. Tlaib, a well-known critic of Israel, publicly condemned the charges, suggesting they were colored by bias due to the AG’s Jewish faith. Referring to AG Nessel, Tlaib said, “It seems that the Attorney General decided if the issue was Palestine, she was going to treat it differently, and that alone speaks volumes about possible biases within the agency she runs.”

Antisemitism Accusations

Responding to Tlaib’s comments, Nessel countered, “Rashida Tlaib should not use my religion to imply I cannot perform my job fairly as Attorney General.” Nessel went on to label Tlaib’s accusation as antisemitic.

Support from the Anti-Defamation League

CEO Jonathan Greenblatt has rebuked Gov. Whitmer for not standing up in Nessel’s defense. He posted on social media, admonishing the governor when alleging that a congresswoman was accusing the attorney general of bias simply because of her religious affiliation.

The Ongoing Debate

While the disagreement continues, Gov. Whitmer maintains her stance of neutrality, emphasizing the protection and respect of all communities under the law in Michigan. Such high-profile public spats continue to stoke the fire of debate regarding antisemitism and bias within the law enforcement agencies.