Some politicians consistently demonstrate a disregard for basic decency and common sense, often making them synonymous with progressive overreach. Rep. Dan Goldman (D-NY) has long distinguished himself in this unfortunate category, consistently acting with a condescending air and a notable lack of respect for those he ostensibly serves. His latest spectacle, however, might just be his most repugnant to date.
Goldman has a troubling history of treating crime victims' families with contempt and making a mockery of solemn proceedings. On Tuesday, he sank to a new low during a House hearing titled "The Continuing Tragedy of Sanctuary Laws." This critical session brought together "Angel Families" – Americans whose loved ones were tragically killed by illegal aliens – to share their devastating testimonies. The stakes were high: discussing the lethal consequences of New York Governor Kathy Hochul's dangerous sanctuary policies.
Amidst such gravity, Goldman chose to launch a disgraceful personal attack. His target: Broome County Sheriff Fred Akshar, a law enforcement officer who dared to question the wisdom of sanctuary policies that put citizens at risk. Instead of engaging with the substantive issues or showing reverence for the grieving families present, Goldman resurrected a 2015 sexual encounter involving the sheriff and the mother of a murder victim. This utterly irrelevant incident, for which Akshar was never charged with wrongdoing, had absolutely no bearing on the hearing's purpose.
It was a truly sickening display of political desperation and an insult to every family seeking justice and accountability.
What exactly was Goldman attempting to achieve? To suggest that a years-old, non-criminal personal matter somehow justifies open borders or negates the critical need to enforce immigration laws and protect Americans? This was not about finding solutions or protecting citizens; it was a desperate, cheap shot designed to discredit a voice of reason in the ongoing battle against disastrous sanctuary policies. It exposed the radical left's willingness to stoop to any level to silence dissent and deflect from their own failures.
Thankfully, the voters of New York delivered their own verdict earlier this year, as Goldman was soundly defeated in his primary in June. Come January 2027, this particular brand of contemptible politics will no longer plague the halls of Congress. Perhaps a slot on MSNBC awaits, where such "degenerate" tactics are often celebrated.
This disgraceful episode serves as a stark reminder of the progressive left's priorities: not common sense, not law and order, and certainly not the safety and well-being of American families. It is a testament to the urgent need for America First leadership that upholds national security, accountability, and the integrity of our institutions against those who would debase them for political gain.
