https://www.cnn.com/election/2020/results/president
My Fellow Jews,
Jewish voters, like any other demographic, have diverse opinions and political leanings, so it is important not to generalize. However, there are several reasons why some Jewish voters may be wary of supporting former President Donald Trump. These reasons can include concerns about his stance on issues like antisemitism, democratic values, and broader social and moral issues that align with many Jewish communities. Below are key points that explain why some Jewish voters might choose not to support Donald Trump:
One of the most significant concerns for Jewish voters during Trump’s presidency was the rise of antisemitic incidents in the United States. According to the Anti-Defamation League (ADL), antisemitic hate crimes surged during Trump’s time in office. Critics argue that Trump's rhetoric and refusal to unequivocally condemn white supremacist groups contributed to this rise. For instance, after the Unite the Right rally in Charlottesville in 2017, where white nationalists chanted slogans like "Jews will not replace us," Trump faced backlash for saying there were "very fine people on both sides"—a comment many saw as an equivocation on condemning racism and antisemitism.
For Jewish voters who prioritize the fight against antisemitism, Trump’s response to these incidents, as well as the apparent emboldening of far-right, white supremacist groups during his presidency, is a cause for concern. Despite Trump's Israel policies, which were meant to appease the Christian right for the most part, his domestic policies and rhetoric toward hate groups may lead some Jewish voters to feel that his presidency did not adequately protect their community from antisemitism.
Many Jewish voters prioritize the protection of democratic values and institutions, which they view as essential for safeguarding minority rights. Trump's actions during and after the 2020 election, especially his refusal to accept the election results and the subsequent January 6, 2021, Capitol riot, are seen by some as an attack on the foundation of American democracy. The peaceful transition of power is a core value in democratic systems, and attempts to undermine it can be deeply troubling for those who see such actions as weakening the very institutions that protect civil rights and liberties.
Jewish voters, particularly those with historical knowledge of how fragile democracies can lead to the erosion of minority protections, may see Trump's behavior as a dangerous precedent. His unwillingness to condemn political violence and the perpetuation of baseless claims about election fraud have left many feeling that his leadership threatens the rule of law, democratic governance, and social stability.
Jewish teachings often emphasize social justice, moral behavior, and ethical governance. Many Jewish voters take these values into account when making political decisions. Trump's personal behavior, including his well-documented history of dishonesty, divisive rhetoric, and accusations of sexual misconduct, clashes with the values of integrity and accountability that are important to many within the Jewish community.
Trump's close alignment with evangelical Christian groups and his willingness to promote Christian nationalist themes have also been sources of discomfort for some Jewish voters. While many Jewish Americans appreciate religious freedom and support for religious communities, they may view Christian nationalism as exclusionary and a potential threat to the separation of church and state.
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| Trump is selling ‘God Bless the USA’ Bibles for $59.99 as he faces mounting legal bills |
Christian nationalist rhetoric often emphasizes a particular vision of America as a Christian nation, which can alienate Jewish Americans and other religious minorities. Policies and movements that intertwine religion and government are often viewed with skepticism by those who favor a pluralistic society where all religions are treated equally under the law. Trump's alignment with leaders of the Christian right, who promote such ideals, could alienate Jewish voters who prioritize religious inclusivity and secular governance.
Trump’s leadership style, which often stoked division rather than unity, is another factor that may turn Jewish voters away. Jewish tradition places a strong emphasis on the concept of shalom (peace) and achdut (unity), values that stand in contrast to Trump’s polarizing rhetoric. Many Jewish voters may be uncomfortable with a president who uses inflammatory language to target his opponents, criticize the media, and exacerbate political divisions. This divisiveness can contribute to a more hostile political environment, which in turn may lead to increased discrimination against minority groups, including Jews.
While Trump has implemented policies that appeal to certain segments of the Jewish community, there are numerous reasons why other Jewish voters may choose not to support him. Rising antisemitism, concerns about the erosion of democratic norms, and opposition to Trump’s moral, social, and policy positions all contribute to the hesitance of many Jewish voters to back him. Like any community, Jewish voters are not monolithic, and their voting decisions are shaped by a combination of domestic concerns, ethical values, and personal experiences.
Best wishes for a happy and healthy New Year.
A former Conservative Republican, now an Independent.
Paul Mendlowitz