Wisconsin Assembly to Vote on Controversial Antisemitism Bill

Supporters say the bill is needed to combat a rise in antisemitism, but critics argue it would criminalize political speech critical of Israeli policies.

Published on Feb. 18, 2026

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The Wisconsin Assembly will vote on a bill that would define antisemitism and has prompted deep divisions, including among Jewish leaders. Proponents argue the legislation is needed to take a stand against a surge in antisemitic actions, while critics contend it would criminalize political speech critical of Israeli actions, most recently in the ongoing conflict in Gaza.

Why it matters

The bill has become a flashpoint in the ongoing debate over the line between criticism of Israeli policies and antisemitism. Supporters say it's necessary to differentiate between the two, but opponents argue it would conflate political speech with anti-Jewish hate.

The details

The bill would codify in Wisconsin law a definition of antisemitism adopted by the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance in 2016. It would require local and state agencies to consider this definition, including its examples, when investigating allegations of discrimination. The definition and examples have become a key point of criticism, with opponents arguing they would treat anti-Israel rhetoric as antisemitism.

  • The Wisconsin Assembly will vote on the bill on Tuesday, February 18, 2026.
  • Public hearings on the measure were held in October 2025 and January 2026.

The players

Ron Tusler

The Republican Assembly author of the bill.

Noah Chertkoff

A rabbi who testified in support of the bill, arguing it would not prevent criticism of Israel.

Dena Feingold

A retired rabbi who testified against the bill, calling the IHRA definition "highly controversial and problematic".

Ari Friedman

The executive director of the Jewish Security Network, who testified that the bill is needed to address a rise in antisemitic incidents.

Hannah Rosenthal

A former CEO of the Milwaukee Jewish Federation who testified in opposition to the bill, describing it as part of a push to target critics of the Trump administration's Middle East policy.

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What they’re saying

“Nothing about this bill would prevent me, or anyone else, from rebuking Israel for its actions when conscience demands it.”

— Noah Chertkoff, Rabbi (Wisconsin Examiner)

“It is far from universally accepted within the Jewish community, and many scholars and leaders have outright rejected it.”

— Dena Feingold, Retired Rabbi (Wisconsin Examiner)

“It affirms that nothing in this bill may be used to infringe on free expression.”

— Noah Chertkoff, Rabbi (Wisconsin Examiner)

“Although the ACLU of Wisconsin appreciates the sentiment expressed by this provision, it cannot override the bill's plain terms.”

— Amanda Merkwae, Advocacy Director, ACLU of Wisconsin (Wisconsin Examiner)

What’s next

The Wisconsin Assembly is scheduled to vote on the bill on Tuesday, February 18, 2026.

The takeaway

This bill has become a flashpoint in the ongoing debate over the line between criticism of Israeli policies and antisemitism. While supporters argue it is necessary to combat a rise in antisemitism, opponents contend it would conflate political speech with anti-Jewish hate, raising concerns about its potential impact on free expression.