Trump’s words: ‘Any Jewish person who votes for a Democrat is guilty of ignorance or great disloyalty.’ Superficially this might seem just like Trump being Trump and not taken seriously. However, as a Jew I find this to be exceptionally worrisome. Anti-Semitism is often rooted in the question of a Jew’s loyalty to his home country. In a unique twist Trump feels that Jews can be loyal Americans only if they are loyal to the Trump-Netanyahu plan for Israel.
Trump’s approach to political success and survival is to spread fear and hatred. This technique has emboldened white supremacists who use his expressions on social media prior to their attacks. My wife and I were in Pittsburgh taking care of grandchildren blocks away from Tree of Life Synagogue when the massacre occurred. We were deeply affected.
Trump will try to justify his comments but the wink and nod he has given to the anti-Semites and white supremacists is real and will remain. Anti-Semitic incidents have increased by 78% with Trump. Our synagogue in State College will now be spending tens of thousands of dollars on security.
Any Republican who continues to support the party of Trump is complicit in the violence he encourages. It is time for Republicans to reject Trump and his hatred before it is too late. Trump does not represent the Republican ideals that were and are inclusive, fair and democratic. We are on the verge of losing the soul of our country.
David Werner
State College
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