November 1, 2024|ל' תשרי ה' אלפים תשפ"ה Why American Jews Should Prioritize Israel When Voting in This Election By Rabbi Jonathan Muskat

Each election cycle brings American Jews to a critical question: how should we decide whom to support? Should we prioritize issues uniquely impacting the Jewish community, or broaden our focus to what benefits the country as a whole? Both perspectives carry substantial moral and communal weight. But this year is different. With Israel facing significant threats and anti-Semitism on the rise, we should take a more single-minded approach: vote for the candidate who is most supportive of Israel and Jewish interests.

Rabbi Nosson Scherman and Agudath Israel of America have long championed this approach. In a 1992 article, Rabbi Scherman argued that advocating for the Orthodox Jewish community’s unique concerns is not only necessary but an expression of our values. Agudath Israel’s criteria for political engagement ask: is there an Orthodox position that mainstream organizations overlook? Would taking a stand benefit our community? And if neither applies, is there a question of k’vod Shamayim (honoring God’s name) that mandates voicing a Torah perspective? This “single-issue” focus isn’t about ignoring broader societal issues but prioritizing what most directly impacts our community’s security and values.

At the same time, notable figures such as Rabbi Abraham Isaac Kook and Rabbi Joseph Soloveitchik advocated for a broader outlook, emphasizing the Jewish responsibility to be an Or LaGoyim, a “light unto the nations.” Rav Kook spoke of two currents within Jewish spirituality: one directed inward, strengthening Jewish identity, and one directed outward, promoting Jewish values within broader society. Rabbi Soloveitchik further emphasized Jewish collaboration with non-Jewish communities on secular matters, urging Jews to participate in society’s welfare. This outlook is significant and certainly worth considering in normal circumstances, as it reflects a responsibility to contribute positively to society as a whole.

Typically, such a balanced approach makes sense, as seen in Rabbi Dr. Norman Lamm’s concept of “enlightened self-interest.” Citing Hillel’s words in Pirkei Avot—“If I am not for myself, who will be for me? But if I am only for myself, what am I?”—Dr. Lamm encouraged Jews to consider both their responsibilities to their own community and their role as American citizens. This approach has guided many Jewish voters in considering not only issues related to Israel but also policies on healthcare, education, and justice reform.

But this year is not typical. The October 7th events and the alarming rise in anti-Semitism have altered the landscape, making a strong case for a single-issue mindset. In such an environment, we cannot afford to spread our focus too thinly. A pragmatic response to today’s urgent threats calls for prioritizing candidates committed to Israel’s security and dedicated to combating anti-Semitism.

This approach does not disregard other important issues, but it reflects an immediate and existential threat. A focus on self-preservation—aligned with the Talmudic principle in Bava Metzia that one should first care for “the poor of one’s own city”—is, for now, necessary. Voting based on support for Israel and opposition to anti-Semitism has implications not only for the Jewish community but also for America’s security, global moral leadership, and stability. The decisions made by the next administration on terrorism and Middle East policy will shape the safety of Jews both in Israel and America and affirm America’s role as a steadfast ally.

Ultimately, this election is about survival, not only for the Jewish community but for the broader values of peace and freedom that benefit all. We must vote with clarity, prioritizing candidates who will protect Israel and oppose anti-Semitism. By doing so, we ensure the well-being of our community and preserve our ability to contribute to society as a whole in the future.

This year, let us unite in purpose and cast our votes as single-issue voters. The strength and survival of the Jewish community—and the moral clarity of American leadership—depend on it.