The Orthodox Jewish Chamber of Commerce has officially endorsed Congressman Andy Kim, recognizing his unwavering commitment to the Jewish community and his leadership in combating anti-Semitism. Congressman Kim’s dedication extends into stimulating economic growth across New Jersey, where he holds a key position on the U.S. Small Business Committee and contributes to the Orthodox Jewish Chamber of Commerce’s JBiz Expo Committee. Furthermore, his influential role on the U.S. Arms Committee was pivotal in the successful advocacy for sending Patriot missiles to Israel following the October 7th attacks.

A trusted ally and close friend of the Jewish community, Congressman Kim is staunchly advocating for emergency funding to bolster Israel’s missile defense systems. In collaboration with the Orthodox Jewish Chamber of Commerce, he is mobilizing support from leaders within the U.S. Senate and House of Representatives to ensure immediate assistance to Israel, a key ally.

In a joint letter to congressional leaders, including Majority Leader Schumer, Minority Leader McConnell, Speaker Johnson, and Minority Leader Jeffries, Congressman Kim, alongside other advocates, underscored the necessity of passing the President’s fiscal year 2024 emergency supplemental funding request. This pivotal funding encompasses vital resources for Israel’s Iron Dome Defense System and David’s Sling, essential for countering short-range ballistic missile threats. The recent tragic loss of innocent lives, among them American citizens, due to Hamas terrorist attacks, amplifies the urgency of this support.

As regional adversaries persist in developing sophisticated rocket, missile, and drone capabilities, the United States and Israel face mounting threats. Defense systems like the Iron Dome and David’s Sling have proven indispensable for Israel’s self-defense. Congressman Kim’s endorsement by the Orthodox Jewish Chamber of Commerce highlights his commitment to ensuring continued investment in the advancement of these crucial technologies.

Congressman Andy Kim stands as a beacon of advocacy and support, bridging economic and defense initiatives vital to both New Jersey and the broader U.S.-Israel relationship. His efforts underscore the intertwined significance of robust economic partnerships and unwavering defense commitments, championing a safer and more prosperous future for both nations.

In recent political discourse, the candidacy of Republican Senate nominee Curtis Bashaw who has never served before with his candidacy brought forward a complex intersection of personal identity and community values. Bashaw, has openly shared within his candidacy that he has been in a committed relationship with his husband for 20 years. Many in the Orthodox community feel that supporting a candidate whose personal life does not align with the traditional values taught in the Torah would be incongruent with their beliefs and could potentially create a “chillul Hashem,” a desecration of God’s name.

Contrastingly, Representative Andy Kim, has been recognized for his considerable efforts to support the Jewish community and Israel. His collaboration with the Orthodox Jewish Chamber of Commerce has extended beyond general assistance, involving personal one on one interventions and support for individuals within the community with many he helped not even being part of jurisdiction. This level of commitment, often devoid of public attention or acclaim, has resonated deeply with many who prioritize the values of direct action and community service.

As these narratives unfold in the public eye, it is crucial for voters, especially those guided by religious principles, to carefully consider demonstrating appreciation to those who helped them and their community while demonstrating how their support aligns with their core values. 

This moment calls for introspection on what it means to uphold the teachings of the Torah within the context of contemporary political engagement and how best to advocate for a future that reflects those sacred principles to their children and broader society.

There is no place to vote for a chillul Hashem!