Antisemitism Disrupts Public Spaces: Reflections on a Viral Incident

Overview of the Incident

On November 7, 2025, a viral altercation disrupted what was meant to be a lighthearted pizza review by Dave Portnoy, founder of Barstool Sports, outside a Starkville pizza shop. Patrick McClintock, a 20-year-old former student at Mississippi State University, was arrested after allegedly shouting antisemitic slurs and throwing coins at Portnoy, an incident captured on video that has since ignited widespread outrage.

Details of the Disruption

As Portnoy filmed one of his popular "One Bite" pizza reviews, McClintock was seen yelling, "F--- the Jews," directly towards him. According to the Starkville Police Department, complaints about the video led to an investigation, and a warrant was issued promptly. Arrested for disturbing the peace—a misdemeanor offense—McClintock was later processed and released.

The Broader Implications

This incident cannot be seen in isolation. Antisemitism has been witnessing a disturbing rise in recent years across the United States. Portnoy himself reflected on this growing trend, citing his daily encounters with hate and emphasizing the need for communities to recognize and combat such behavior.

"Every person has the right to feel safe and respected in our community," the Starkville Police Department stated, pointing out that while free speech is protected, their responsibility includes ensuring public events, like a pizza review, can happen without disruption or threat.

Public Reaction and Accountability

The aftermath of the incident saw Mississippi State University confirming that McClintock had voluntarily withdrawn following public backlash. This raises essential questions about institutional responses to hate and how educational environments can sufficiently address such disruptive behaviors. As communities grapple with rising intolerance, schools play a pivotal role in fostering understanding and promoting respect.

Continuing Conversations on Antisemitism

The incident reflects wider societal trends—a surge in hate speech and antisemitic incidents that demands proactive dialogues about accountability and the responsibilities of citizens in public spaces.

Conclusion: A Call for Reflection

As we process this distressing event, I encourage readers to reflect critically on the implications of such behaviors for our social fabric. Incidents like this are not merely isolated occurrences; they are symptoms of a growing issue that requires our attention and action. We must remain committed to building a society where respect and understanding prevail over hate and division.