As a proud American and Jew, I was deeply offended by a recent letter sent only to the Jewish community that treats us like second-class citizens. It came from Jersey City Mayor Steven Fulop, who’s running for governor of New Jersey.
For months, Fulop has attacked the antisemitism bill that our community overwhelmingly supports. He’s repeatedly
said he would veto it if he were elected governor.
Now, after major pushback, Fulop is trying to walk it back—but instead of addressing it directly, he quietly referenced a supposed change of heart in a letter to the Jewish community, not even shared by him directly or on his website, it instead came from Tamar Warburg, his apparent envoy to our community.
Worse yet, he didn’t actually change course. What is his offer to Jewish voters after months of attacking the antisemitism bill? He still refuses to support the bill or offer any alternative plan to fight antisemitism – but, if he becomes governor, in his infinite kindness he will choose not to veto the antisemitism bill.
What an insult to our community. Are we supposed to be grateful that he won’t help us with our legislation? Does he expect us to vote for him or one of his candidates because he promises to sit on the sidelines and do nothing for the legislation our community wants? And why in the world is Tamar Warburg helping him with this insult to Jewish voters?
Our votes count as much as every other American. We are not miskenim who need to accept leaders who will be indifferent to our issues. We can vote for leaders who will be proactive to support our issues. And Fulop’s letter ignores the real political power Jewish voters have shown—especially in the last election cycle.
In 2024, Jewish communities turned out in record numbers, winning electoral victories and ousting two anti-Israel members of “The Squad” from Congress in the primaries. There was no mystery behind how we did it – we did it by showing up, especially in the primaries.
The takeaway: Everyone votes, especially in the primaries. The New Jersey primaries are happening right now. When everyone votes in the primaries, the Jewish vote shapes the entire general election.
As a proud Jew raising four Jewish children, and as a proud American elected to serve on the Englewood Board of Education, I believe Josh Gottheimer for governor, and Yitz Stern and Rosemary Hernandez Carroll for State Assembly, are the candidates who truly reflect our values. They’ve earned the support of Jewish community organizations, yeshiva rabbis and local officials—and I’m proud to add my endorsement to theirs.
Fulop’s letter is just one more reminder: Only by voting can we expect proactive representation over indifference. Early voting is June 3–8. Election Day (the last day to vote) is June 10.
