BROOKLYN CAFE UNDER JUSTICE DEPARTMENT INVESTIGATION AFTER BANNING CONGRESSMAN

Poetica Coffee in Brooklyn faced a federal investigation after banning Democratic Congressman Dan Goldman over his pro-Israel positions. The cafe posted on social media criticising Goldman following his visit on Sunday, stating it does not serve those it characterises as "racists, fascists, homophobes, genocide enablers". Poetica Coffee subsequently deleted the post and refunded Goldman's purchase. Harmeet Dhillon, assistant attorney general in the US justice department's civil rights division, announced her office was investigating the cafe.

Goldman, who represents New York's 10th congressional district, told CNN he found the ban "sad". The cafe's social media post had included an image of Goldman at the counter and referenced his support for Israel, making a reference to AIPAC, the pro-Israel lobbying organisation. The post also mentioned a Democratic congressional primary race in which Goldman is competing against former New York City comptroller Brad Lander. Goldman later stated he would prefer the justice department investigate antisemitism affecting people without his public profile and political position.

Goldman said he accepts criticism as a public figure, though he does not welcome antisemitism directed at him. He argued that the justice department's resources might be better directed towards other cases. The investigation marks a significant development in a controversy that emerged publicly only days before the primary election Goldman referenced.