Congressman Slammed For Filming Video At Auschwitz, Making Politically Motivated Holocaust Comparisons

U.S. Rep. Clay Higgins of Louisiana shared a video of himself at Auschwitz Saturday and is receiving widespread criticism for using the Holocaust as a reason to bolster U.S. military and homeland security.

The video depicts the Republican solemnly describing scenes and histories of the German Nazi death camp in occupied Poland, underlaid with dramatic music and occasionally stark comparisons to American security policies.

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“This is why homeland security must be squared away,” said Higgins, referencing the Holocaust. “(This Is) why our military must be invincible.”

The implication was that if Homeland security isn’t a top priority, some sort of foreign invader could commit similar crimes in the U.S.

“It's hard to walk away from the gas chambers and ovens without a very sober feeling of commitment,” Higgins said looking directly into the camera. “Unwavering commitment, to make damn sure that the United States of America is protected from the evils of the world.”

On Tuesday the Auschwitz Memorial responded to the video, saying that gas chambers are not a stage.

“Everyone has the right to personal reflections. However, inside a former gas chamber, there should be mournful silence. It's not a stage,” the Museum tweeted.

Steven Goldstein, executive director of the Anne Frank Center for Mutual Respect, had an even harsher rebuke.

“Congressman Higgins, Auschwitz is not a television studio,” Goldstein said Wednesday in a statement. “It is the site of genocide and tragedy for the Jewish people that you have disrespected. Not only must you apologize, but you must also get the sensitivity training appropriate for your continued service in the U.S. Congress.”

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The Anne Frank Center also went after Higgins on Twitter.

“Get sensitivity training or get a new job. Your infomercial at Auschwitz is hideous,” read its tweet Wednesday.

Higgins drew the ire of Twitter for the latest stunt.

Higgins is no stranger to controversy. Last month in a Facebook post after a terrorist attack in London, Higgins related a no-mercy sentiment.

“The free world... all of Christendom... is at war with Islamic horror. Not a single radicalized Islamic suspect should be granted any measure of quarter. Their intended entry to the American homeland should be summarily denied,” wrote Higgins. “Every conceivable measure should be engaged to hunt them down. Hunt them, identify them, and kill them. Kill them all. For the sake of all that is good and righteous. Kill them all.”