Sen. Cory Booker (D-NJ) is catching flack for once again utilizing rhetoric that is being described as aggressive and “bombastic” that his critics say contradicts his claims to love his enemies as dictated by his profession of the Christian faith. Booker made the controversial comments during a Michigan Democratic Women’s Caucus fundraiser, delivering a speech that many compared to a sermon.
During his address, Booker shared a story about an elderly man guiding drivers through hazardous road conditions caused by a severe storm. He then changed directions and delivered a call to action urging “foot soldiers of our democracy” to defy the Trump administration, employing the use of phrases he’s come under fire for using before.
“Ladies and gentlemen, there is a storm in our nation! There is darkness and wind. People are getting hurt. What we need is not from on high. We need foot soldiers of our democracy who, in times of trial, are willing to stand up,” Booker yelled from the podium. “Will you stand for our democracy? Will you stand to get out the vote? Will you stand for our children?”
“Will you stand up for our elders? And will you stand together, unified, strong, be the hope that people need? We are Democrats! It’s time for a new deal! It’s time to redeem the dream of America!” Booker shouted, according to a report from Fox News. The rhetorical style used by Booker is familiar to many of his critics, who have accused him previously of engaging in grandstanding.
Some have mocked him for it, giving him the nickname “Spartacus,” which he got for his behavior during the 2018 Supreme Court confirmation hearings for Judge Brett Kavanaugh. At the time, Booker, with more than a flair of drama, claimed he was putting himself in danger of possible Senate expulsion by releasing documents he believed were confidential, which he referred to as his “I am Spartacus” moment.
According to Fox, it was later revealed the documents had been cleared for public release. Those critical of the New Jersey Democrat have pointed to this specific incident as evidence of an ongoing contradiction: Booker says his message is one of love and unity, yet he uses combative language when talking about his political opponents.
During an interview with NBC reporter Kristen Welker, the senator was asked if he loved President Donald Trump, to which he replied, “I’m a Christian, and my faith is very clear: Love your enemies, love your adversaries. Never let someone pull you so low as to hate them. That doesn’t mean I won’t fight him with ferocity to try to defend and protect people’s healthcare and public education.”
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Commenters on Facebook were quick to mock Booker for his antics, with one individual writing, “Don’t worry, he’s just having a Spartacus moment.” Another zinged the senator by saying, “What’s the old saying? The loudest person in the room is usually the least intelligent.” A third individual wisecracked, “You can see the veins coming out,” with a laughing face emoji.
Featured Image: screenshot from embedded video