New York City Rabbis Urge Vote Against Mamdani: A Call to Action

As tensions rise over the upcoming mayoral election in New York City, a significant number of rabbis have stepped into the political arena for the first time, expressing deep concerns about what a potential Mamdani mayoralty could mean for the city’s Jewish community. With Governor Andrew Cuomo as their preferred candidate, these religious leaders emphasize the importance of civic engagement.

The Concerns Over Mamdani’s Candidacy

Many in the Jewish community are fearful of Zohran Mamdani, the Democratic Socialist candidate, due to his positions on Israel and Zionism. Rabbi Chaim Steinmetz, of Congregation Kehilath Jeshurun, articulates this sentiment clearly:

"To have someone who is a supporter of terror, who is a committed anti-Zionist, become mayor of the city with the largest Jewish population in the world is just unthinkable."

A Shift from Tradition

Historically, many rabbis have refrained from endorsing political candidates. However, this election cycle has prompted a departure from that norm. Rabbi Steinmetz explains:

"I’m a believer that every rule has an exception. This is a time for an exception."

Collective Action: An Open Letter

Earlier this year, Rabbi Steinmetz began publicly opposing Mamdani, and he was not alone. Over 1,000 rabbis across the nation signed an open letter condemning Mamdani’s anti-Zionist rhetoric. The letter emphasizes the need to support candidates who affirm Israel’s right to exist peacefully.

Mobilizing the Community

Organizing for Change

Rabbi Steinmetz has taken concrete steps to mobilize his community. He organized a phone-banking effort at his synagogue, drawing about 20 volunteers for a "turn-out-to-vote" initiative:

• The campaign represents an unprecedented level of civic engagement within the congregation.

Voices from Other Synagogues

Rabbi Shlomo Farhi, from the Edmond J. Safra Synagogue, is echoing similar sentiments. He passionately encourages his congregation to recognize their voting responsibility:

"You have the chance to stop it, and if you did nothing because of some selfish reason, shame on you."

Civic Duty Discussed

Rabbi Farhi’s sermons highlight the dual civic and religious obligation to vote, emphasizing:

• Civic Responsibility: Encouraging participation in democratic processes to protect community interests.
• Religious Obligation: Viewing voting as a moral duty that aligns with Jewish values.

The Impact of Rabbinic Engagement

The involvement of these rabbis marks a pivotal moment in political history for New York City’s Jewish community. Their actions illustrate a commitment to both religious beliefs and civic engagement, urging congregants to prioritize the upcoming election.

A Growing Movement

The collective efforts by rabbis are having a tangible impact, evidenced by the enthusiasm among community members participating in voting initiatives. The sentiment is clear: many feel a pressing need to act for the sake of their community’s future.

Conclusion

As the New York City mayoral election approaches, the call from numerous rabbis for unity and political action is resonating strongly. Whether through organized phone-banking campaigns or impassioned sermons, these leaders are determined to mobilize their communities to make their voices heard.

For more insights on the political landscape affecting New York’s Jewish community, consider visiting The New York Times and The Forward, where discussions on Jewish political engagement are ongoing.

This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the recent activities by rabbis in New York City, touching on their motivations, actions, and the implications for the community. Ensure your voices are heard this election season!