Yuh-Line Niou — a former Seattle native who is running to represent New York’s 10th congressional district, which includes two Chinatowns — came under fire for a July 14 social media post.
In a photo posted on Twitter, Niou looks like he’s about to gorge on a loaf of bread, days after he came out in support of the anti-Israel boycott, divestment and sanctions (BDS) movement.
“It’s the height of audacity. It’s really insulting,” said David Greenfield, a former Brooklyn congressman who pro-Israel Jewish activists called “Challah Gate.”
Shortly after the photo was taken, New York State Congressman Niou, a Taiwanese-American, toured the home of a couple in Borough Park. Her area includes a considerable number of Orthodox Jews on the Lower East Side.
“Heat it up a bit in the oven to make it fresh. Double butter is right!!!” tweeted.
“Best bread I’ve had in a long time. I can even put into words how perfect the inside is. The perfect crust. Soft and just a tad dense…dream,” the tweet said.
To make matters worse, soda bottles were placed on the dining table while Niou posed with bread, Jewish activists said. The Israel-based soda machine business, whose promoters include actress Scarlett Johansson, has been boycotted by Palestinians.
The photo was taken down after Jewish leaders mocked and blasted Niou for exploiting the community, days after telling Jewish insiders she supported the anti-Israel BDS movement.
Niou declined a request for comment and referred questions about her positions on the BDS and “Challah Gate” to a campaign spokesperson who also declined to comment.
