President Joe Biden delivered a keynote address at the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum’s Annual Days of Remembrance ceremony in the U.S. Capitol, reaffirming the pledge of “never again” and denouncing rising antisemitism. He emphasized that there is no place for hate speech or threats of violence against the Jewish community in America. Biden’s commitment and support for Jewish Americans have been evident in various actions, including the National Strategy to Counter Antisemitism, military assistance to Israel, and defending Israel from an Iranian attack.
The contrast between Biden and former President Donald Trump’s stances on Israel and antisemitism has become more apparent following an attack on Jewish people by Hamas. While Biden has been unwavering in his support for Israel and Jews worldwide, Trump has made disparaging remarks about Israeli leaders and suggested Israel was weak in the aftermath of the attack. Trump’s policy towards Israel has been self-serving, with clear instances of putting his own interests above national security concerns and exhibiting antisemitic statements.
Biden’s support for Jewish Americans amid growing antisemitism sets him apart from Trump’s divisive rhetoric and actions. Trump’s statements targeting Jewish Americans and aligning with dangerous right-wing extremists have contributed to widespread rejection of him within the Jewish community. Biden’s leadership in facilitating a hostage release and ceasefire deal demonstrates moral clarity and contrast with Trump’s lack of morality and decency. The choice between Biden’s defense of democracy and Trump’s authoritarian tendencies should be clear for Jewish voters and all Americans.
The current election is more than just a partisan choice—it’s a decision between a leader who upholds democratic values and someone who seeks to be a dictator. Biden’s commitment to restoring the soul of the nation stands in opposition to Trump’s denigration of it. Jewish voters are faced with a clear choice between a defender of democracy and someone who has repeatedly shown disregard for democratic principles. Ultimately, the decision should not be difficult for Jewish voters or any Americans who prioritize values of decency and morality in leadership.
Halie Soifer, CEO of the Jewish Democratic Council of America (JDCA) and former national security adviser, emphasizes the importance of recognizing the stark differences between Biden’s support for Jewish Americans and Trump’s divisive rhetoric and actions. Biden’s commitment to combating antisemitism and standing with the Jewish community sets him apart as a defender of democracy, while Trump’s behavior and statements have raised concerns within the Jewish community and beyond. The upcoming election presents a critical choice for voters to support a leader who upholds the values of democracy and decency.
