Kevin Youkilis Slams AOC Over Response to Colorado Attack on Protesters

Boulder, Colorado — Former Major League Baseball player Kevin Youkilis has publicly criticized U.S. Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY) following a violent incident targeting Jewish protesters in Boulder on Sunday.

The attack occurred during a Run for Their Lives event, aimed at raising awareness for Israeli hostages held by Hamas. A suspect, 45-year-old Mohamed Sabry Soliman, allegedly used a flamethrower and Molotov cocktails on demonstrators, injuring a dozen individuals aged between 52 and 88. The FBI labeled the act as a “targeted terror attack.” Soliman is facing multiple charges, including federal hate crimes and 16 counts of attempted first-degree murder.

After the incident, Ocasio-Cortez expressed her horror and support for the victims on social media, stating, “Antisemitism is on the rise here at home, and we have a moral responsibility to confront and stop it everywhere it exists.” However, Youkilis, who is Jewish and notably played for the Boston Red Sox and New York Yankees, dismissed her remarks as empty rhetoric, calling it “virtue signaling.” He questioned her actions against those promoting antisemitic sentiments in New York City.

Youkilis responded on X (formerly Twitter), stating, “What have you done to confront those calling for intifadas in NYC? Until you create a plan of action, your repeated virtue signaling after the violence occurs holds no weight.” He further urged Ocasio-Cortez to show leadership by addressing radical groups in New York.

Ocasio-Cortez’s comments come amid a spike in antisemitic incidents in the U.S. since the start of the Israel-Hamas conflict in 2023. Youkilis, who served as Team Israel’s hitting coach at the 2023 World Baseball Classic, is known for his advocacy for Jewish rights and safety.

The Boulder incident has drawn widespread attention and condemnation, with many calling for stronger actions against rising antisemitism. As investigations continue, Youkilis’ challenge to politicians serves as a call for accountability and leadership in the face of hate.