Living in a predominantly liberal town that for years lacked a significant conservative voice, I felt compelled to bring balance. Two years ago, I founded the Highland Park Republican Club, creating a haven for those seeking a genuine second party option. My political journey began after college, supporting campaigns like Mayor Bloomberg’s independent bid. Yet it was Donald Trump’s candidacy that finally brought a voice to the American people — and the Jewish community — that felt both genuine and deeply resonant.
In New Jersey, traditionally a blue state, 46.3% of voters chose President Trump this election. This strong turnout reflects a shift and a recognition of Trump’s values among traditional Democrats, which is heartening. In my community, displaying Trump’s signs alongside Israel’s required courage amidst a predominantly liberal backdrop. But I have always felt a powerful connection between President Trump and the Jewish people. Like Israel, he faces unrelenting media attacks, and yet, he stands firm, exposing corruption and challenging powerful interests, just as Israel endures global scrutiny and unfair bias.
Consider this: In 2023, the U.N. General Assembly condemned Israel 14 times while all other countries combined faced only seven resolutions. Disturbing revelations about UNRWA’s involvement in the horrors of Oct. 7 underscore the double standards Israel faces, where condemning it seems almost fashionable, while genuine atrocities by others are overlooked. The relentless efforts to prosecute Trump on dubious charges echo the persistent attacks on Israel by bodies like the International Criminal Court while terror sponsoring nations such as Iran evade accountability.
When Trump, after surviving an assassination attempt in Pennsylvania, raised his fist and declared, “We will fight,” he mirrored the indomitable spirit of the Jewish people who have risen time and again in the face of historical challenges. Trump represents family, security and prosperity — values at the core of Jewish life. On the day before the election, I had the privilege of organizing buses to transport Pennsylvania’s Amish community to the polls, supporting a cause I believed in wholeheartedly.
In a world often aligned with Israel’s adversaries, President Trump stands as a steadfast ally, fully understanding the threats Israel faces from nations like Iran. His visit to the Ohel of the Lubavitcher Rebbe is a testament to his respect for faith and strength in leadership.
Despite immense adversity, President Trump continues to fight with resilience for peace through strength. This is more than a political stance; it is a story of good triumphing over evil, a reflection of the endurance and spirit of the Jewish people. Am Yisrael Chai.
Rivka Sonts is a longtime Israel activist who has worked with numerous Jewish organizations including the Jewish Agency for Israel, UJA Federation, Ateret Cohanim and Americans Against Antisemitism. She also participated in many demonstrations and lobbied with AIPAC, ZOA and NORPAC. She is a current board member of Rescuers Without Borders in Yehuda Veshomron and recently organized a speaking tour for Dr. Yair Ansbacher to over 20 communities. She is also a life coach and is currently the public relations director for The Park Med Spa. She resides with her children in Highland Park. She can be reached at (347) 598-9448.
