'SNL' Co-host Michael Che Turns Israel Voter Turnout into 'Genocide' Punchline on 'Weekend Update'
Michael Che's Israel "genocide" punchline on "Saturday Night Live" drew sharp rubukes from criticis, including from Campaign Against Antisemitism and NewsBusters.
TL;DR
- Michael Che joked about genocide while discussing voter turnout in Israel's elections on 'Saturday Night Live's' 'Weekend Update.'
- The Campaign Against Antisemitism stated the joke plays on a baseless belief that Israel has committed genocide and that such allegations portray Jews as perpetrators of the crime against them.
- NewsBusters managing editor Curtis Houck criticized the joke, suggesting viewers might not understand the meaning of genocide and that the term is more applicable to how many Arabs view Israel's existence.
- Houck argued that the segment could have highlighted Arab participation in Israel's election instead of using the term 'genocide' lightly.
- In Israel's recent election, Arab-led parties were projected to secure a combined 19 seats.
- Che previously faced criticism in 2021 for a joke suggesting Israel's COVID-19 vaccination campaign favored Jewish citizens.