GOP is targeting Jewish voters in key states to narrow Democrats’ lead

As the November 5 elections approach, the Republican The Jewish Coalition (RJC) is increasing its efforts to influence Jewish voters, especially those with a history of supporting Republican candidates.

In West Bloomfield, Michigan, Rachel Weinberg, a 72-year-old retired kindergarten teacher, expressed her support for Donald Trumpprioritizing her loyalty to Israel above all else.

She said: “I’m voting for Israel. It’s our life. I support Israel. Trump supports Israel with his mouth and his actions.”

Weinberg’s home was one of more than two dozen recently visited by RJC researchers as part of a broader initiative aimed at reaching Jewish voters in five crucial battleground states.

How did Jewish people vote in 2020?

The coalition hopes to mobilize support for Trump against Democrat Kamala Harrisespecially in light of the ongoing discussions surrounding the war between Israel and Hamas, which has deepened divisions within the community.

At the national level, Jewish voters have historically assumed a favored position Democratic, with about 70 percent support Joe Biden in the 2020 elections.

However, the RJC is working to change this dynamic and is targeting the approximately 15,000 new Jewish Republican voters identified in Michigan since the last election.

Although Jewish voters represent just 2 percent of Michigan’s electorate, this demographic could prove crucial in a close race; Biden won the state in 2020 by fewer than 155,000 votes.

What is the Republican Jewish Coalition Victory Fund?

The coalition is targeting specific areas in Michigan, particularly Oakland County, which is known for its significant Jewish population.

Neighborhoods such as Farmington Hills, Oak Park, Southfield and West Bloomfield are receiving targeted outreach, including direct mail and digital advertising campaigns designed to resonate with Jewish voters.

The RJC has committed $15 million to advertising in key states and set aside another $5 million for door-to-door campaigning, marking a strategic shift in the way it engages potential voters.

Halie Soifer, CEO of the Jewish Democratic Council of America, refuted the RJC’s message and emphasized the importance of Jewish voters within the Jewish Democratic Council. Democratic coalition.

What impact will the war between Israel and Hamas have on voters?

She criticized Trump for what she described as anti-Semitic rhetoric and alignment with extremist views, claiming that Kamala Harris embodies the values ​​held by the majority of American Jews.

The backdrop of the war between Israel and Hamas has increased tensions and affected voter sentiment.

Since the outbreak of hostilities on October 7, which resulted in significant casualties on both sides, many Jewish Americans have expressed feelings of vulnerability, citing rising anti-Semitism and anti-Israel protests as contributing factors to their concerns.

As Election Day approaches, the RJC’s targeted efforts reflect a strategic response to the changing dynamics within the election Jewish votes bloc, aiming to use the current political climate to strengthen support for their candidate.

The outcome of this outreach could have significant implications for elections, especially in closely contested states where every vote counts.

This article contains additional reporting from The Associated Press.