Democratic candidate corresponded with parody account posing as Gaza rabbi
A candidate challenging Rep. Ritchie Torres in the Democratic primary exchanged messages with a fake social-media account that presented itself as the chief rabbi of Gaza. The account has a history of posting satirical content critical of Israel while claiming to support Palestinian causes.
abcnews.go.comA Democratic candidate seeking the party's nomination for New York's 15th congressional district exchanged messages with an account that identified itself as "Rabbi Linda Goldstein," the chief rabbi of Gaza. The account, which lists the hashtags #BDS and #FreePalestine, has posted content including an announcement of an annual "Rabbigasm" event described as a "no holds barred orgy" for rabbis and Palestinian refugees.
It has also referenced marching in a "Gaza Pride Parade" with the assistance of Hamas leaders.
Exchange details The candidate requested a campaign donation from the account.
In a Nov. 9, 2025 message, the account replied that it would "lend my voice to defeat" Torres and stated it was heading to Gaza for two weeks. The candidate responded by asking about the account holder's home base and expressing support for the account's community.
The account then asked whether the candidate would consider traveling to Gaza. The candidate replied that he "certainly would consider" the trip.
Prior incidents The same account previously contacted two other Democratic members of Congress who had taken positions critical of Israel. Both lost their primary elections in 2024. " The operator said the account holder has received threats and has not disclosed a real identity for safety reasons.
A Jewish community organization leader stated that candidates who make Middle East policy a focus of their campaigns should demonstrate knowledge of the relevant facts before engaging on the topic.
