New Jersey Congressman Faces Scrutiny Over Photo With Controversial Activist
Last summer, a photograph of New Jersey Representative Tom Kean Jr. alongside GOP activist Ibrar Zulfiqar Bhutta, also known as Ibrar Nadeem, surfaced, sparking controversy due to Nadeem’s alleged homophobic and antisemitic views.
On August 22, 2025, Nadeem shared two images on Facebook, one with Kean and another with Jack Ciattarelli, the then-Republican gubernatorial candidate. “Two powerful days, two powerful meetings,” Nadeem captioned the post, expressing his honor at meeting with both Congressman Kean Jr. and Ciattarelli.
During that period, Nadeem held the position of executive director of Muslim relations within Ciattarelli’s campaign team. He also represented Ciattarelli at an event on October 18 in Piscataway, where he advocated for a ban on same-sex marriage and openly stated his refusal to accept campaign contributions from Jewish individuals.
“Somebody said you are taking money from Jews,” Nadeem remarked. “I check my bank account every day, brother. It is not there.”
Nadeem’s comments drew criticism from various New Jersey officials, prompting calls for Ciattarelli to dismiss him. Livingston Deputy Mayor Shawn Klein expressed concern, telling NJ.com, “I don’t know the heart of this man who is speaking, but with his comments, he’s either speaking against Jews himself or to others in the room who are clearly antisemitic.”
Despite the backlash, Kean did not publicly condemn Nadeem’s statements and maintained his support for Ciattarelli’s gubernatorial campaign. This silence has raised questions about Kean’s commitment to combating antisemitism, a topic he frequently addresses in Congress and during his campaign tours.
In September, Kean emphasized his stance against antisemitic hate, stating on social media, “At a time when antisemitic hate has reached alarming levels, I am pleased to stand with the Jewish community in the U.S. and around the world in calling out this evil.”
Nadeem again shared the photo featuring Kean on January 14, accompanied by a local pharmacist and business owner referred to as “Uncle Ashraf.” Nadeem praised Ashraf’s contributions, writing, “Uncle Ashraf has built a legacy through service and sincerity. It was a true honor to stand beside him and Congressman Kean Jr. in my office.”
Previously, Kean voted against marriage equality for New Jerseyans in 2010 and 2012 while serving as a state senator. However, he has since reversed his position, expressing support for same-sex unions. Kean is currently campaigning for a third term in the House of Representatives.
The original article can be found here on American Journal News.
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