The Bergen County Jewish Action Committee (BCJAC) hosted Congressman Josh Gottheimer, who is running for governor in New Jersey in the June Democratic primary, at a March 2 event for local residents. On March 11, BCJAC announced its endorsement of Gottheimer as the Democratic candidate for governor in this year’s crowded Democratic primary.
“Josh has been a clear and consistent voice against antisemitism,” BCJAC said in its statement. “His unshakable support for Israel and his efforts on behalf of the hostages are a testament to his deep loyalty to the Jewish community in New Jersey and the values that bind us together.”
The event was packed with residents hailing from Teaneck, Bergenfield and New Milford, including a strong representation of community leaders and members of the local Democratic committee. Elected officials in attendance included Teaneck Mayor Mark (Mendy) Schwartz, Teaneck Deputy Mayor Karen Orgen, Bergenfield Councilwoman Ora Kornbluth, and former Deputy Mayor Yitz Stern, candidate for State Assembly.
Gottheimer addressed key focus areas, beginning with a significant issue affecting all New Jersey residents: affordability. “We live in a great state, a beautiful state — I love Jersey! But it’s getting to be an expensive place to live,” Gottheimer pointed out. “Property taxes are just too high in New Jersey, and as governor, I’d cut them 15% right off the bat.” Gottheimer further addressed other areas of concern, such as antisemitism, pointing to his unwavering support of the IHRA definition of antisemitism, and his constant efforts to combat antisemitism in schools and universities, as well as on our streets. He also explained that the New Jersey constitution makes the role of governor here more influential than in other states because the governor has the ability to appoint county prosecutors and the attorney general.
“Congressman Gottheimer co-sponsored the Antisemitism Awareness Act at the federal level as our congressman, and I have full faith he would certainly do so at the state level,” said Teaneck resident Ellie Klapper.
The event began with socializing and refreshments. Teaneck resident Teresa (Tirza) Bayewitz welcomed Gottheimer. “A quick spin through Congressman Gottheimer’s voting record shows that Israel does not have a more steadfast supporter in Congress,” Bayewitz articulated. “He has spoken out against antisemitism and lobbied for our neighbor Edan Alexander’s release. From fighting antisemitism in all its forms to ensuring that Israel remains safe and secure, he has led with moral clarity and determination.”
Rabbi Daniel Fridman represented the RCBC as vice president for community affairs. “There are major issues on the ballot that concern each and every member of our community,” Fridman, speaking in a personal capacity, noted. “These include the absolute importance of supporting the IHRA definition of antisemitism, which will dramatically impact education at all levels in our state; making school choice a priority to help ensure our children and families can have affordable access to day school education; and an unapologetically pro-Israel position from the governor’s seat, who will vocally denounce Hamas and all terror organizations, and will ensure that our shuls and communities are safe from those who apologize for, sympathize with or support terror.”
Fridman emphasized the importance of our community becoming educated about candidates on both sides of the aisle and their positions to best understand which candidates are aligned with our community’s interests, as their positions vary significantly. He urged each member of our community to educate themselves about where the candidates stand on these vital issues.
The Republican race for governor is also underway, and BCJAC will endorse a Republican gubernatorial primary candidate in the coming weeks. To stay informed of future events and announcements, or for questions, email [email protected].
BCJAC is a nonpartisan grassroots organization advocating on behalf of the local Jewish community. For more information, visit www.bcjac.org.
