FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. — A South Florida event venue canceled a campaign rally featuring U.S. Rep. Rashida Tlaib after a state lawmaker criticized the gathering, intensifying debate over political speech, antisemitism and anti-Muslim bias.

Tlaib, a Michigan Democrat and the first Palestinian American elected to Congress, was scheduled to appear Friday at a get-out-the-vote rally supporting three candidates in Florida’s Aug. 18 Democratic primary.

The Venue Fort Lauderdale withdrew after Florida state Rep. Michael Gottlieb, chair of the Florida Legislative Jewish Caucus, described the planned gathering as anti-Jewish. The business cited increased security concerns and said its Jewish ownership and commitment to the Jewish community were important factors in its decision.

Tlaib has repeatedly condemned antisemitism while arguing that criticism of Israel’s government and its military actions should not be treated as hatred toward Jewish people.

The Florida Democratic Progressive Caucus said the cancellation was rooted in anti-Muslim sentiment. Organizers told reporters that the rally was expected to continue at another Fort Lauderdale location.

The event was organized by groups including the Florida Youth Justice Coalition, Gen-Z for Change and a local Democratic Socialists of America chapter. It was intended to support U.S. Senate candidate Angie Nixon and U.S. House candidates Elijah Manley and Oliver Larkin.

The details were reported Saturday by Reuters.