Sep 17, 2008 11:13pm

Obama Holds Conference Call With 900 Rabbis for the High Holy Days, Says His Volunteers Are Blowing Shofars of Action

Sen. Barack Obama, D-Ill., held a conference call with over 900 rabbis this morning to wish them and their congregations a Happy Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year (year 5769, for those counting) which begins at sunset on Sept. 29.

“I know that, for rabbis, this is the busiest time of the year as you prepare for the High Holy Days," said the Democratic presidential candidate. "I want to wish everybody a shanah tovah and I hope that you will convey my wishes to all of those [who] pray and celebrate with this Rosh Hashanah.”

Obama, who is said to be struggling with some Jewish voters who otherwise traditionally vote Democratic, said that “the Jewish New Year is unlike the new years of any other cultures. In part, because it’s not simply a time for revelry; it’s a time for what might be called determined rejoicing. A time to put your affairs with other people in order so you can honestly turn to God. A time to recommit to the serious work of tikkun olam ― of mending the world.”

Obama was introduced to the group by the chairman of “Rabbis for Obama,” Rabbi Sam Gordon of Congregation Sukkat Shalom in Wilmette, Ill., and Rabbi Elliot Dorff, vice chair of the Conservative Movement’s Committee on Jewish Law and Standards, and a professor at the American Jewish University in Los Angeles.

According to Rabbi Danya Ruttenberg, who live-blogged the conference call, Dorff said his support for Obama “is a case of both ahavat Mordechai and sinat Haman.”

“Ahavat Mordechai” means the love of Mordechai, the hero of the story of Purim. “Sinat Haman” means hatred of Haman, the villain of the same tale, who conspired to slay the Jews.

According to a press release sent from the Obama campaign to Jewish newspapers, Obama told the rabbis that “throughout my career in the state Legislature, and now in the U.S. Senate, I have been a stalwart friend of Israel. On every single issue related to Israel’s security, I have been unwavering, and will continue to be unwavering.”

He went on from there, but you get the idea. Under fire from the Republican Jewish Coalition and others seeking to portray him as less-than-stalwart in his support for the Jewish state, Obama said that during his recent trip to Israel, he met “all the major political players … and I think that they all came away with assurance of my commitment with respect to Israel.”

Obama added, “There’s a lot to fix,” Ruttenberg relayed in her blog, discussing the economic crisis, the war in Iraq, Iran, climate change, Osama bin Laden still being on the loose, health care, caring for children and seniors, and investing in energy.

“I do not think, as president, that I can repair all this on my own, but that perhaps together,” we can, Obama said, quoting from Rabbi Tarfon in the Talmud: “You are not free to complete the work, but neither may you desist from it.”

Obama then seized the symbolism of the Shofar, the ram’s horn blown during the High Holy Days, and relayed it to — what else? — his campaign.

"I know that the Shofar is going to be blown in your synagogues over Rosh Hashanah and there are many interpretations of its significance,” Obama said. “One that I have heard that resonates with me is rousing us from our slumber so that we recognize our responsibilities and repent for our misdeeds and set out on a better path.

“The people in every community across this land join our campaign, and I like to think that they are sounding that Shofar and to rouse this nation out of its slumber and to compel us to confront our challenges and ensure a better path,” Obama said. “It’s a call to action. So, as this new year dawns, I am optimistic about our ability to overcome the challenges we face and the opportunity that we can bring the change we need, not only to our nation, but also to the world.”

After Obama’s remarks, he took questions from a representative of each of the four major branches of Judaism –- Orthodox, Conservative, Reform, and Reconstructionist.

Anyone familiar with those branches will not be surprised that the Orthodox rabbi expressed concern that Obama’s K-12 education funding plans exclude private religious schools; the Conservative rabbi asked Obama to talk about his recent trip to Israel where he met with various political leaders; the Reform rabbi asked how one addresses the economic needs of most Americans while not forgetting the poor; and the Reconstructionist rabbi asked, according to Ruttenberg, “how people of all faiths and people of no faiths can both speak from where they are (in their respective belief systems) and also come together.”

- jpt

User Comments

I pray to God that Obama will be our next President.

Posted by: hencken | September 17, 2008, 11:21 pm 11:21 pm

Obama a liar, flip flopper can do anything to get a vote.

Posted by: sonia | September 17, 2008, 11:28 pm 11:28 pm

Aw, Jews are smart and they see this do anything, say anything suit for who he is….endorsed by Hamas, friend of anti-semite Rev. Wright and Farrakhan.
What an actor. Leiberman and McCain are tight…..nuff said.

Posted by: Emma | September 17, 2008, 11:35 pm 11:35 pm

If You were The Boss… which team would you hire?
With America facing historic debt, multiple war fronts, stumbling health care, a weakened dollar, all-time high prison population, skyrocketing Federal spending, mortgage crises, bank foreclosures, etc. etc., this is an unusually critical election year.
Let’s look at the educational background of the candidates and see what they bring to the job:
Obama:
Occidental College – Two years.
Columbia University – B.A. political science with a specialization in international relations.
Harvard – Juris Doctor (J.D.) Magna Cum Laude
& Biden:
University of Delaware – B.A. in history and B.A. in political science.
Syracuse University College of Law – Juris Doctor (J.D.)
vs.
McCain:
United States Naval Academy – Class rank 894 out of 899 (meaning that, like George Bush, McCain was at the bottom of his class)
Palin:
Hawaii Pacific University – 1 semester
North Idaho College – 2 semesters – general study
University of Idaho – 2 semesters – journalism
Matanuska-Susitna College – 1 semester
University of Idaho – 3 semesters – B.A. in journalism
Now, which team are you going to hire to lead the most influential nation in the world?

Posted by: JustMyObservation | September 17, 2008, 11:38 pm 11:38 pm

Don’t worry in two days he will change his mind when talking with the muslims once more, just as he did the last time when he promised Yerushalim would not be divided.

Posted by: truth will set you free | September 17, 2008, 11:43 pm 11:43 pm

Justmyobservation….most the millionaires in this country are self made…Bill Gates never even graduated college…so your point is what?
Life experience, intuition, character, judgement….YOU DON’T LEARN AT HARVARD. I don’t give an f if BO had 10 degrees….he didn’t have the judgement not to run with Ayers, Rezko and Wright….deal breakers for millions of Americans.

Posted by: Emma | September 17, 2008, 11:49 pm 11:49 pm

The more I’ve read about Obama, the more hideous he becomes.

Posted by: young_voter | September 17, 2008, 11:53 pm 11:53 pm

To my Jewish friends who still disagree with me on this: Beware of Greeks bearing gifts. And pay attention to who the man’s closest friends were BEFORE he ran for national office…..

Posted by: Stephen Gianelli | September 18, 2008, 12:07 am 12:07 am

michelle’s relative was there too?

Posted by: kravitz | September 18, 2008, 12:07 am 12:07 am

Yeah, this is newsworthy.

Posted by: b | September 18, 2008, 12:11 am 12:11 am

Trying to bring evryone together , what a novel idea. Good for you Barack.This country at times so spilt it makes me sick , but brighter days can be ahead.

Posted by: hanah | September 18, 2008, 12:12 am 12:12 am

you dont learn at harvard?
lol… what?
is that why palin attended 5 schools and got her 2 year degree in 6
or is that why mccain graduated at the bottom of his naval academy…
but working ones way into harvard and then working ones way through harvard on your own is just… such a meaningless task…
dont learn anything at harvard… lol let me guess drop out junior year?

Posted by: bhrandon | September 18, 2008, 12:13 am 12:13 am

mccain picked an unvetted unprepared person to be a heartbeat away from the presidency all for votes
country first… lol
how about campaign first

Posted by: bhrandon | September 18, 2008, 12:14 am 12:14 am

emma
youre bringing up hamas?
they now back mccain lol, one of his campaign officials was a lobbyist for hamas
oh and by the way, hamas doesnt like obama much anymore…
nice try emma, maybe you and mccain can get some facts together instead of all these petty lies…

Posted by: bhrandon | September 18, 2008, 12:16 am 12:16 am

yesterday mccain flip flopped once every hour… who knows what tomorrow brings

Posted by: bhrandon | September 18, 2008, 12:17 am 12:17 am

You know what is important to every one? His Home: The place where he lives and raise his family .Then is his community where the people he greet every day lives and faces the same problems and challenges .If you organize and protect your community ,you protect your home. Then you sleep every night safer. What makes a President is the right Judgment. Be cool like coo camber in time of crisis. Not have 7 houses or family business hundred million dollars worth. Do not have the temper to pick a fight but the temper to fight every day make the life of the community around you better.

Posted by: foreclosure | September 18, 2008, 12:17 am 12:17 am

Well, with McCain you have an all out war with Iran and probably large swaths of destruction to Israel in response. With Obama you have at least a chance at diplomacy.
I pick option 2!

Posted by: johnTX | September 18, 2008, 12:31 am 12:31 am

“said to be struggling with some Jewish voters”
Them’s weasel words. Provide some facts.
Last time I saw Obama was outpolling Kerry’s take from 2004. So there.

Posted by: chris | September 18, 2008, 12:36 am 12:36 am

Mack, 17 year friendship with Rezko?
Wow. Are you a politician? Because you twisted the truth like a pro!

Posted by: johnTX | September 18, 2008, 12:44 am 12:44 am

I would love to see McCain do an interview like this!
Obama seems to me to be more of an ecumenical candidate.

Posted by: cincyr | September 18, 2008, 12:51 am 12:51 am

To: John TX and his buddy Mack
You want to talk about judgment? Let’s talk about the stupid war on Iraq Thousands of brave Americans dead and injured. Let’s talk about the deregulation of the market and for consequence the collapsed economy. Lets talk of the billions dollars gifted to the oil companies resulting on today price of petrol.
What the ostrich and the Republicans have in common. Let me guess
Both hide their head on the sand and pretend everything is fine
An ostrich bury its head in the sand and pretend everything is fine
Republicans do the same and follow McCain
America and the world is suffering with the blunders of Bush Administration

Posted by: foreclosure | September 18, 2008, 12:58 am 12:58 am

Pfft. I think John McCain has some of the worst judgment ever.
The man championed a war that got 4,000 of our troops killed, cost us $1.5 trillion and created an entire new generation of extremists on false pretenses and now pretends it is because of terrorism.
He voted for the bill which is directly responsible for the collapse on wall street and hired the guy as chief economic adviser. This guy Gramm then wrote McCain’s economic policy.
Then he went on to bait Russia before it was clear what the heck was going on in the Georgia/Russia conflict. Russia. A country that has the capacity to kill our entire population in 45 minutes. In 15 minutes, he managed to nearly destroy our relationship with Russia and isn’t even President!
Does anyone know of any examples of McCain’s good judgment? I mean, on big stuff?

Posted by: johnTX | September 18, 2008, 1:07 am 1:07 am

God said hate the SIN, but love the SINNER. With love and compassion in your heart you can overcome any obstacles that come your way all through your life. You may not get all the people to walk with you in times of tribulation. But, they will in time, come to respect your good will and good deeds.

Posted by: mary | September 18, 2008, 1:09 am 1:09 am

Thank you, Barack, for talking to the rabbis. As a Jew, it pains me that so many of my fellow Jews have been voting Republican in the last few elections. Although I support Israel and have relatives living there, I don’t think that “never second-guessing Israel,” as Palin recommends, is the right way to bring any sort of peace to the Middle East, and Bush has not done anything of substance to help over there. I trust Obama much more to make some progress- he is very good at getting adversaries to work together and he understand complex situations. Obama is a true statesman and we need that so badly now in this crazy world, and certainly in this crazily divided country!

Posted by: Marcy | September 18, 2008, 1:30 am 1:30 am

Emma, Would you like to give me some information on Sarah Palin’s preacher? There’s not a lot of evangelicals in the country who don’t follow Return Again as if it were another chapter of the bible. Remember? The best-selling book that says that Israel MUST exist for the second coming of Christ – at which time all Israelis and all Jews will be slaughtered unless they don’t convert?
And you want to talk corruption? Should we start with the Keating 5 or with Cindy McCain’s daddy and uncle – both of whom are convicted felons, who made their money off booze and racetracks – you know – that money that John McCain has based his political career on? And that bought that family jet? And that paid for those 6 houses? Or was it 7? Gee, he just can’t remember. Or should we talk about a first lady who stole controlled drugs from a CHARITY she was volunteering for? And did not spend a day in jail because of it?

Posted by: Mara | September 18, 2008, 1:33 am 1:33 am

obama sucks up to everyone for a vote.
Every thing he does is to make a show.
He is such a plastic person. Will use anyone and say or do anything for a vote.

Posted by: seah | September 18, 2008, 1:37 am 1:37 am

Mara you are a legend
It is really sad once analyze why McCain select Palin for running mate.
The only criterion was how he could win this election despite the best interest of the country and the American people
America and the world is suffering with the blunders of Bush Administration
The economy have crumple and the prosperity of many people are under risk not only in America but also worldwide.
Because America doesn’t stand alone world have turn into a very small place and everything is linked
And we are listen the person who is running for crucial position on public office,
Resonance overconfident untrained rigid and answering with out vacillation
Yes I am ready to be President like that job is similar to a manager position on the local Wall Mart shop .
The same person last month was saying if some can explain to me what the Vice President do?

Posted by: foreclosure | September 18, 2008, 1:40 am 1:40 am

Was really funny watching the glance on the face of Cindy McCain?
When Sen. McCain said on his speech about the high salaries of CEO’s and how greedy they are?

Posted by: foreclosure | September 18, 2008, 1:51 am 1:51 am

RL in Illinois | Sep – Jealous I take it becasue Obama can reach across to other countries unlike Bush or McSame. He got great respect when Obama went on his trip over there. We all no McSame can not do the same becasue the Republ can only related to their race and their race only. Look at their convention nothing but white old people and this country is a country of many races, but if you watched the Republ convention you will not think so.

Posted by: gl | September 18, 2008, 2:00 am 2:00 am

Michelle Obama has a relative thats one of the top Rabbis in this country… As a Jew… I strongly think that it is _ods will to elect Obama the next U.S. President…

Posted by: Levi | September 18, 2008, 2:01 am 2:01 am

Other countries want a weakened U.S. Other countries would love a sock puppet Prez. No one likes #1, and they would love to see us fall. We will if Barack Hussein Obama gets in the WH.
Jews against BHO.

Posted by: Emma | September 18, 2008, 2:27 am 2:27 am

Why are Republicans so melodramatic?
I swear, you know we have three branches of government that all balance each other out to make sure nothing too catastrophic happens right? We could elect a complete moron to the whitehouse and not actually run the country into the ground.
I mean, just look at our country right now with dopey running it. It sucks, but it isn’t like we’ve suddenly entered the third world.

Posted by: johnTX | September 18, 2008, 2:32 am 2:32 am

The Republicans are real good at negative ads,spin and lies..as always, the American public is falling for it. I am an Independent voter but based on my observation over the years I’ve realized that the Republican party have studied the American psyche relative to politics and realized that the typical American do not read widely..The typical American does not read or listen to nonpartisan programs..the typical American literally believes every thing heard on radio or Tv and the Republican part have worked hard on fooling the public with negative ads. The Democrats are not as good with putting out negative ads etc.I told all my friends since last year that obama will not be president because the Republicans will out negative the Democrats! Heaven help us all and save fom the Reblicans

Posted by: Stanley | September 18, 2008, 2:44 am 2:44 am

To emma
The world wishes for a strong USA on values, ideas and Democracy .Not a bully abusing his power to impose his authority

Posted by: foreclosure | September 18, 2008, 2:59 am 2:59 am

In her first question and answer session with voters since her shock selection as vice-presidential nominee, Mrs Palin had been asked by a member of the audience if she had the necessary foreign policy experience to be vice president.
She answered confidently: “I am prepared and I am confident. If you want specifics on countries you can play ‘stump the candidate’ if you want.” The questioner however declined the offer.
Palin then named every member of the Nigerian cabinet.

Posted by: Ryan C | September 18, 2008, 3:05 am 3:05 am

America is a multi cultural, multi ethnic melting pot..America was built by the world..Its a country of immigrants. Yet when you look at the people(crowd) at two
conventions..one convention looks like America and the other is only a lot of old white people and elitist young people..some are very rich and the others pretending to be rich..they laughed at the community organizers around the country..they belong to a party that has run America’s economy into the ground yet these people have the nerve to hold up signs that read “COUNTRY FIRST”. These are the people who think that putting your hand on your chest during the singing or playing of the national anthem is patriotism and wearing a pin of the American flag is patriotism..when the highest form of patriotism is giving back to your country by volunteering in your community, giving some time to help struggling students in school..doing community work, they(elitist Republicans) laughed at that one). Giving back to your country is the highest form of patriotism. If you poor and struggling middle class people out there think that a man who is filthy rich(his wife has a lot of dough) and owns nine houses really care about you..I have news for you!…McCain and the elitists don’t care about you when you are feeling the pain..they have enough to get by. I read on the paper the other day that McCain’s wife wore an outfit to the convention that cost $300,000 while Obama’s wife’s outfit for her speech cost $150 now tell me who is the elitist..Go figure! America!..especially the poor and middle class you better wake up and go vote these elitist people out as quickly as possible. Heaven help us all and save us from the Republicans!

Posted by: Stanley | September 18, 2008, 3:20 am 3:20 am

Ryan, That was a good one!..she knew all the members of the Nigerian cabinet..Ha ha ha that was funny!. Now lets go vote the elitists out! and take care of our country again. With Obama its country first..with MCCain its rich people first..don’t be duped by the Republicans..did you look at their convention! These people are comedy relief! The real rich ones and those pretending to be rich..I had a ball watching the Republican convention. Heaven help us all and save us from the Republicans!

Posted by: Stanley | September 18, 2008, 3:46 am 3:46 am

John McCain and Sarah Palin want to be elected like Republicans but they are trying to avoid discussing issues critical for the American families. And portraying themselves like reformers because they are embarrassed of the last 8 years of the Republicans –Bush Administration. Is the Republican Party in the need of urgent reform because is out of touch with the everyday life of the American people.
Americans want answers to they problems they want better healthcare they want better pay they don’t want just change because that sounds good on election time, they want change from the Bush policies. This election is not only about some bridge in Alaska it is about all the bridges and roads in all of United States because they are all crying out for repairs and maintenance. This is because for the last 8 years the Bush and the Republicans have spent enormous amounts to build up Iraq and they have forgotten about the needs of their own country.
Our libraries and schools should offer all the choices of books and facilities to give to our kids the tools not only to build a better future for them but also for the country.
John McCain and Sarah Plain promise of change: Is a change to Nowhere.
Nowhere near to help the American people with a real economic change Nowhere near to bring troops home safely.
Nowhere near to build America’s independence from oil.
Nowhere near to help the 95% of the American families.
Nowhere near to help the entrepreneurs and working families to keep jobs in America.
Nowhere near to provide the medical care reform for the American people and the Veterans who they are not fought for the red and blue states of the electoral map They fought against the terror and to keep America on the map.
Barack Obama and Joe Biden probably don’t have all the answers to the problems of the America’s working families or farmers or the people under the fear of loosing their homes. Because of the failing economic policies of the Bush administration.
But they are ready to answer to the Americans for their policies and take responsibility for their decisions if they are elected to the White House
Barack Obama is ready not only to lead Americans back to the American dream but also to be sure his family and your families and daughters and sons are part of this dream

Posted by: foreclosure | September 18, 2008, 4:14 am 4:14 am

Stanley
America is a multi cultural, multi ethnic melting pot. America was built by the world. It’s a country of immigrants? “You are spot on”. But also remember Americas wealth was build also by African slaves Asian rail workers Latin Americans farm workers on the land of native Indians from white Europeans. Today this it is called THE AMERICAN DREAM

Posted by: foreclosure | September 18, 2008, 4:33 am 4:33 am

What the ostrich and the Republicans have in common.Let me guess
Both hide their head on the sand and pretend everything is fine
An ostrich bury its head in the sand and pretend everything is fine
Republicans do the same and follow McCain

Posted by: foreclosure | September 18, 2008, 4:36 am 4:36 am

I’m a Jewish voter and supporting Obama. Also I think we should second guess Israel especially while PM Olmert’s party is in power. They are destined to lose their entire power base next election.

Posted by: Bryan B. | September 18, 2008, 5:05 am 5:05 am

Meshugenah!
Anything to get elected…If Clinton had done this or McCain, his internet minions would be foaming at the keyboard….What a bunch of hypocrites.

Posted by: Angry Black Democrat | September 18, 2008, 6:15 am 6:15 am

James Johnson, Obama´s advisor involved in the selection process of Joe Biden. From 1991 to 1998 he was chairman and chief executive of Fannie Mae and from 1985 to 1990 managing director with Lehman Brothers.
Do you trust this man to run our economy?

Posted by: Stephen from Indiana | September 18, 2008, 6:16 am 6:16 am

McCain holds conference call with 900 Black Ministers to with them a Happy Juneteenth! Nothing opportunistic about that …..

Posted by: Angry Black Democrat | September 18, 2008, 6:17 am 6:17 am

Story out that Obama did not write his book, Ayers did.
Compare books, style is the same

Posted by: Angry lack Democrat | September 18, 2008, 6:22 am 6:22 am

I bet Obama’s buddy Farrakhan wasn’t there for this conference call. Obama is full it, full of himself, and I cannot stomach his pathetic begging for the Jewish vote.

Posted by: Ben | September 18, 2008, 6:26 am 6:26 am

I was brought up to believe that you are who you hang with. 20 years with spiritual mentor who preaches so much hate…cannot fail to impact your life in a major way. That was enough for me. His hateful friends (we all know them) and the fact that he is using this depressed economy to get people aboard with his “join us, we’ll change the world” crap honestly reminds me of a monsterous German man. I’m not saying Obama is Hitler, but he uses his tactics and his friends and associates are hateful people who seek to divide us.

Posted by: Ben | September 18, 2008, 6:33 am 6:33 am

Has anyone else noticed the 2 week difference between Obama’s rhetoric and the McSame-ite’s adoption of that rhetoric as there own?
Seriously, it’s like a bad echo.
By the way, you McSame-ites need to look up the term “fiscal conservatives” because you guys aren’t.

Posted by: Chris | September 18, 2008, 6:49 am 6:49 am

It’s laughable that Obama even has a preceived “Jewish” problem. In Ill., he was castigated as being in the pocket of Jewish leaders. He seemed to hang out with them non-stop. Then he gets to the national stage and a few smear emails start this “Obama doesn’t support Israel” stuff. And the media and conservatives lap it up. It’s unreal. The guy is a friend of the Jews. Period. End of discussion. Stop smearing him. And don’t base your vote on lies.

Posted by: Jew in Ill. | September 18, 2008, 7:04 am 7:04 am

Jew in IL,
I think the problem that many Jewish voters have with Obama is his “sympathy” for terrorists – and by “sympathy” I don’t mean he sides with them, or thinks what they are doing is right, just that he “understands” where they’re coming from.
Also, Obama has openly stated (then probably retracted) he is willing to split Jerusalem in order to secure peace.
If you’re really a Jew, which I doubt, you’d know that ain’t gonna fly with the Jews.

Posted by: JA | September 18, 2008, 7:52 am 7:52 am

Willem,
Well, to be fair, McCain has good friends in both the Republican and Democratic Party. For god’s sake, wasn’t Kerry considering him as a VP. And as we know, Biden and him are great friends.
I don’t necessarily believe you are who you “hang” with, but let’s be honest here.

Posted by: JA | September 18, 2008, 7:55 am 7:55 am

Obama is Jewish, Muslim, Christan, whatever you want. As Rev. Wright would say, “he’s a politician”.

Posted by: Captain America | September 18, 2008, 7:55 am 7:55 am

I am impressed with Jake Tapper!
First, he recognized the four branches of Judaism most active in America.
Second, he nailed, with good humor, how their questions to Obama were stereotypical of each branch.
Mr. Tapper, you’re either one knowledgeable man or you’re a mensch!
Also impressed with how Obama takes the key relevent term–tikkun olam–and shows that it is his too.

Posted by: northlite | September 18, 2008, 8:01 am 8:01 am

I BELEIVE OBAMA IS A GOD FEARING AND HONEST MAN. EVERYBODY’S GOT AN OPINON. I LOOK AT HIS EXAMPLE, ALWAYS REACHING OUT TO EVERYBODY. GOD BLESS THIS CARING MAN.

Posted by: marian | September 18, 2008, 8:15 am 8:15 am

Does anyone else find the irony in Obama digging up a ‘relative’ who is a rabbi just in time for the Jewish Holy Days? What race or religion does this man NOT HAVE in his background?
He’s white/black/muslim/Christian/Jewish.
How very convenient.

Posted by: Jacqueline | September 18, 2008, 8:39 am 8:39 am

Ok seriously. Enough with this. Obama ain’t got a Jew problem. As a Jew who know lots of other Jews, I’m hard pressed to find one who is supporting McCain.
It’s really the older Jew in Florida Obama may have a problem with. Our parents are worried about their futures, retirement, etc. But worry not, their kids will convince them to vote for their grandchildren and for Israel…
OBAMA!!!

Posted by: NYCJEW | September 18, 2008, 8:44 am 8:44 am

If there were a large population of aliens from Mars living in key swing states, Obama would dig into his multi-race, multi-religion so-called “background” and find that he is, indeed, related to an alien from Mars!
I wish Obama was on Mars!

Posted by: Jake | September 18, 2008, 8:49 am 8:49 am

I was brought up to believe that you are who you hang with. 20 years with spiritual mentor who preaches so much hate…cannot fail to impact your life in a major way. That was enough for me. His hateful friends (we all know them) and the fact that he is using this depressed economy to get people aboard with his “join us, we’ll change the world” crap honestly reminds me of a monsterous German man. I’m not saying Obama is Hitler, but he uses his tactics and his friends and associates are hateful people who seek to divide us.
Posted by: Ben | Sep 18, 2008 6:33:35 AM
—————————————-
Then you must also believe McCain is in the pocket of lobbyist and corporate elites and he doesn’t give a damn about average folks. Oh and Ben, I’m not saying you’re Hitler’s chief propagandist Joseph Goebbels but you sure uses his tactics and McCain’s friends and associates are hateful people who seek to divide us.

Posted by: McCain/Palin = Corporations First | September 18, 2008, 8:52 am 8:52 am

You must be referring to the Jews for Jesus because those are Sarah Palins friends.

Posted by: angelgirls3 | September 18, 2008, 9:01 am 9:01 am

If this had been a story about McCain calling Jewish leaders, the press would have lampooned him. But, once again, the press gets a shiver up its collective leg and climaxes as it keyboards its stories. Implicit in the story is a message to Jewish leaders. “Don’t bother to pray for the Messiah’s coming. He’s here.”

Posted by: Sharon | September 18, 2008, 9:06 am 9:06 am

I hope that Obama does not win. The press has turned this elecinto a side show.

Posted by: Samantha | September 18, 2008, 9:29 am 9:29 am

Betcha Michelle’s good at blowing shofars with that big mouth of hers!

Posted by: markone | September 18, 2008, 9:33 am 9:33 am

Senator Obama
Your church honored Louis Farrakhan with the honor of “Man of the Century”.
How did you protest that action?

Posted by: Cynthia | September 18, 2008, 11:21 am 11:21 am

Maybe Jewish leaders should be reminded that Obama willingly sat in Rev Wright’s church for 20 years.
That hate was indocrinated into BO’s mind for all those years.
Show them the video of BO calling Wright a “great leader”.
Send them Trinity’s newsletter with Farrakhan on the cover–with his lifetime achievement award.

Posted by: sally | September 18, 2008, 12:04 pm 12:04 pm

Just to correct the Talmud quote: “You are not responsible to complete the work but neither are you free to desist from it.”

Posted by: Jay D. Homnick | September 18, 2008, 12:15 pm 12:15 pm

I love the sound of The Shofar. I’m listening to it right now thinking about how the sound must have crumbled the walls of Jericho. Don’t worry Israel the Democrats are friends and Obama/Biden are showing support.

Posted by: Robert | September 18, 2008, 3:09 pm 3:09 pm

The last paragraph is very interesting. It would be fascinating to hear Obama’s response to each. How will he handle funding for private, religious education? Does he support vouchers? Is he proposing new social programs? If so, how does he accomplish this without incurring the wrath of the middle and upper classes; and, most importantly, how will he support them?

Posted by: Dave | September 18, 2008, 5:40 pm 5:40 pm

I hope most of you who are posting those really disgusting comments aren’t any of “my people.” The prejudice and misinformation expressed here is in blatant disregard to Judaism and what it represents. Don’t use Rev. Wright as your excuse- the man has done more for the good of his community than I’ll wager any of you have ever done. And if you think to question his patriotism and love of the is country let me also remind you he was a Marine and served this country. I’d love to know how many of you can say the same.
But if we Jews feel like throwing ourselves under a bus, by all means vote for McCain/Palin. They will do more to undermine the concept of freedom of religion and free speech than anyone in the last 250 years. If you think the issue of Israel is more important than voting for the best candidate for this country i strongly suggest you go there. I’ve been a supporter of Israel all my life, but THIS is my country and it needs Obama.

Posted by: dmj | September 18, 2008, 7:21 pm 7:21 pm

My, my, my.
The republicans have been very busy.
From trying to extinguish Troopergate, teach a good ol’ girl their values, make John appear to have a brain and all the while lying through their teeth!
THE REPUBLICANS OFFER ‘NO’ CHANGE
THEY HAVE LIED, CHEATED, STOLEN and KILLED 4700 OF OUR CHILDREN.
WHY?
THE ALMIGHTY DOLLAR.
Perhaps this time America will say ‘enough is enough’.
Let’s go back to our Constitution-
A government OF the people, BY the people, FOR the people…
Don’t cry for the rich, they’ll get by.
Cry out for your self, your family, your friends and neighbors.
Before you vote remember the faces of starving children, disaster refugees, dumped elders and newborns. For the first time in American history, this is what our leaders have caused us to become.
My God America-forget he’s black.
We are bigger than racist hatred.
Remember he’s well educated-and wants the same for your children/grandchildren.
He’s lived in hard times and good. He brought himself to where he is. He wants to bring you and yours there too.
If the last eight years have touched you in any way vote CHANGE. If you haven’t felt anything in the same eight years vote McCain…

Posted by: oldwhiteguy | September 18, 2008, 8:01 pm 8:01 pm

“Palin then named every member of the Nigerian cabinet.
Posted by: Ryan C | Sep 18, 2008 3:05:54 AM
%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%
COULD YOU?
COULD YOU NAME EVERY MEMBER OF BUSH’S CABINET WITHOUT GOOGLING IT?
WHAT ARE YOU GOING TO DO WHEN B O LOSES?

Posted by: eyes opening | September 18, 2008, 9:54 pm 9:54 pm

Someone please educate me. Please explain why numerous people on this website are SO upset about Rev Wright but fail to discuss Sarah Palin’s church which she attended for YEARS (& remains involved as a guest speaker) or the views of her pastors & the many sermons that can be viewed and/or heard on-line.
It’s also important to note that Obama faced hard questions head-on in the press in numerous statements & press releases to answer accusations head-on. Unlike Sarah Palin who has been almost completely shielded from the equally hard & difficult questioning that has been required of and faced by all other candidates.
As a person who was raised Catholic, I too have sat through many sermons I strongly disagreed with & likely should have left (which I did on occasion, though not always). So I understand the complexity of believing while disagreeing on some matters until at some point you have to make a decision (I no longer attend) for whatever reason.
However, it seems that Sarah Palin does not truly have to answer for her involvement in a church that recently invited her to speak (& she did) to the Masters Commission students, part of an international program designed to convert the rest of the world to Christianity.
Her church invited David Brickman, head of “Jews for Jesus” in August – an organization whose goal is “to make the messiahship of Jesus an unavoidable issue to our Jewish people worldwide.”
Where is the public outrage regarding the fact that Palin and her family were present for his sermon (& didn’t leave) during a sermon contained numerous inflammatory claims, most particularly about terrorist attacks in Israel.
At least 3 of 4 of Palin’s churches are actively involved in a resurgent movement called the “Third Wave” movement (The Third Wave of the Holy Spirit or the New Apostolic Reformation). The very same movement featured in the movie “Jesus Camp,” which showed young children being trained to do battle for the Lord. A The movement is training a young “Joel’s Army” to take dominion over the United States and the world.
Do all churches & religious beliefs have components that may appear odd and different to outsiders or non-believers? Absolutely.
The fact that 3 of the 4 Christian churches attended by Palin are actively involved in the 3rd World movement, which separates itself from “non-believing Christians” involving spiritual warfare is at the very least interesting.
More interesting is the fact that no one is allowed to ask Palin the same kinds of questions asked of Obama and John F. Kennedy so we can’t hear detailed responses regarding if and how this fits into her world view, her politics or her decisions should she become the next Vice President with the very real possibility of becoming President.
And we haven’t even gotten into a discussion of her family’s involvement in the Alaskan Independence Party and its goal of seceding as a state of the United States of America and their equally complex beliefs.
Is Sarah Palin willing to embrace and face 900 rabbis, the press and the American voter? We’ll see.

Posted by: pmarie55 | September 19, 2008, 9:46 am 9:46 am

WHICH CANDIDATE CAN ISRAEL COUNT ON …
OBAMA = BETRAYAL
Obama supporters are foolish to think that he will never betray them.
Obama was a close friend of Pastor Wright for TWENTY YEARS.
Obama threw Wright under the bus for personal ambition.
McCain would not betray his country even after 5 years of torture.
You can put lipstick on a traitor, but he’s still a traitor.

Posted by: Howard | September 19, 2008, 3:02 pm 3:02 pm

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