Sen. Sampson Statement on the Return of Final Israeli Hostages & Rising Concern Over Antisemitism

“Today marks a profoundly historic moment: the release and safe return of the last 20 living Israeli hostages, freed after more than 700 harrowing days in captivity following the brutal October 7, 2023 Hamas attacks. This is a victory for hope over despair, for the power of diplomacy, and for the enduring strength of those who would not let darkness extinguish their faith.

“I extend my deepest congratulations to President Donald Trump, the Israeli government, and all the international mediators whose perseverance made this possible. This outcome is a testament to what can be achieved when wills are aligned and purpose is unwavering.

“To the families: your agony does not end with reunion, but this day brings transcendence of a sorrow you carried far too long. To the hostages: I wish you healing, comfort, and the freedom to rebuild your lives. And to the people of Israel and all those praying for peace — let this moment kindle a path toward reconciliation, dignity, and security for all.

“Yet even as we celebrate, we must confront a growing and disturbing reality here at home: the rapid rise of antisemitism across the United States. For as long as I can remember, antisemitism existed on the fringes of society — condemned by people of good conscience, and certainly absent within the conservative movement. But in recent years, we’ve witnessed it creeping into the mainstream: hateful campus protests, unhinged rhetoric online, and a cultural shift that too often excuses or even glorifies hatred toward the Jewish people.

“What is particularly alarming is the shift I am seeing within so-called conservative circles. In all my life, I had never heard conservatives express antisemitism — not once. Now, however, a few fringe influencers have begun injecting such views into public discourse, and I am seeing more antisemitic comments from those claiming conservative credentials. This development is unacceptable and dangerous.

“Let me be clear: you cannot be a conservative and a bigot. Our principles are grounded in individual liberty, personal responsibility, and judging people by their merit, not by their race, religion, or ancestry. To judge anyone on superficial qualities — skin color, origin, or any immutable trait — is not only immoral but irrational. It reflects the absence of logic and reason, the very foundation on which conservatism is built.

“I condemn antisemitism — and all forms of racism and religious hatred — unequivocally. We must stand against every manifestation of bigotry, whether cloaked in political ideology or hidden behind false ‘free speech’ defenses.

“On this day, we celebrate the triumph of life, the power of negotiation, and the possibility of peace. But we also recommit ourselves to vigilance against hatred, wherever it arises, and to defending reason, liberty, and individual dignity for all.

“May this moment be both a beacon of hope and a call to action: for peace abroad, and for the triumph of reason and moral courage here at home.”