Former MLB star Kevin Youkilis is calling out Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez after her reaction to a violent attack in Boulder, Colorado. The attack targeted a group advocating for the release of Israeli hostages held by Hamas. Ocasio-Cortez said she was "horrified" and expressed support for the Jewish community.
"My heart is with the victims and our Jewish communities across the country," she wrote on X. "Antisemitism is on the rise here at home." But Youkilis, who is Jewish, wasn’t impressed by her statement.
He accused the congresswoman of offering the same "virtue signal post" after every attack. "What have you done to confront those calling for intifadas in NYC?" he asked. "Until you create a plan of action, your repeated virtue signaling after the violence occurs holds no weight."
Youkilis, a two-time World Series champ, spent most of his career with the Boston Red Sox. He ended his MLB run with the Yankees in 2013. Now, he's calling for real action from leaders like AOC.
When asked what he wanted her to do, Youkilis was clear. "Confront the radical mobs chanting for intifadas in NYC," he said. “That would be brave leadership.”
He added that politicians on both sides avoid those moves out of fear. "They’re scared of losing votes and power," he said.
Ocasio-Cortez had previously defended anti-Israel activists at Columbia University, calling them “peaceful.” At the time, Jewish students were urged to leave campus amid threats and pro-Hamas rhetoric.
Sunday’s attack in Boulder is being called a "targeted terror attack" by the FBI. Authorities say Mohamed Sabry Soliman, 45, threw homemade incendiary devices at the crowd. Eight people were burned—victims ranged from ages 52 to 88.
Soliman, seen shirtless and holding more devices after the attack, eventually surrendered. He had overstayed his visa and was in the U.S. illegally. He first arrived in 2022 and received a temporary work permit before violating immigration laws.
The victims were participating in the “Run for Their Lives” event to raise awareness for Israeli hostages. One victim remains in critical condition. The attack has reignited debates about antisemitism, immigration, and political accountability.