Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer was among a handful of political speakers at the event. Noting that America stands with Israel and “shares your pain,” she promised that America stands with the Jewish people “against the scourge of antisemitism, and we will fight back against this ancient horse.”

Already being touted in some circles as a Democratic presidential hopeful for 2028, Whitmer also spoke about her state’s ability to get things accomplished thanks to “bipartisan” efforts.

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Rep. Ritchie Torres (D-N.Y.-15) was presented with the “Courageous Leadership Award” by JFNA. In his address, he joked that his local rabbi calls him “Ritchie Torah.”

Noting his support of Israel and opposition for antisemitism, he said, “I reject the notion that one must be Jewish to combat antisemitism, just like I would reject that notion that one must be black to reject anti-black racism.”

He noted that “we live in an alternate reality” and a “world of lies,” where good has become bad and evil has become good.

Unlike many in the progressive wing of his party who refuse to support Israel, Torres said it is “progressive” to defend Israel’s right to self-defense and to call for the hostages to come home.

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Sen. Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) referred to the hostages in Gaza as “our” hostages, saying, “Our hostages must be freed and returned to their families.” She also said America must “ensure the forever survival of Israel.”