Gorka Says He Opposes Anti-Semitism, But Does Not Address Affiliation With Nazi Allied Group

Graphic by Angelie Zaslavsky

Image by Facebook
“I’ve been a committed opponent of anti-Semitism, racism and totalitarianism all my life,” Gorka said in a brief written statement provided, after weeks of requests, to the Forward by the White House press office. “Any suggestion otherwise is false and outrageous.”
The Forward report did not allege Gorka was anti-Semitic, but rather showed, based on interviews with two senior members of Vitezi Rend, that Gorka had taken a lifelong oath of loyalty to the group.
In his response, Gorka did not deny or confirm being a member of Vitezi Rend.
Furthermore, Gorka did not say whether he reported his membership to American immigration authorities upon seeking U.S. citizenship. A State Department manual states that members of Vitezi Rend are “presumed to be inadmissible” to the country.
Gorka ended his statement by thanking the president for offering him the opportunity to join the White House team, where he serves as his deputy assistant and is in charge of counter-terrorism. “I am grateful to President Trump and his team for giving me the opportunity to serve and keep America safe against today’s totalitarians.”
Contact Nathan Guttman at [email protected]
Hello, fellow Forward reader! I’m Joel Brown, a Forward reader and supporter for more than 15 years, and currently the chair of the board of directors.
I’m an avid Forward reader because it ticks so many of my essential boxes: excellent journalism, Jewish focus and diverse viewpoints. In today’s political climate, what I most appreciate is the Forward’s independence — made possible by the generosity of its membership.
The Forward is committed to bringing you unbiased, nuanced Jewish news. From my position as board chair, I see an exciting future as we expand our position as the definitive independent voice of contemporary American Judaism.
— Joel Brown, Forward board chair
