Rabbi's Week in Review Blog

I sort of watched the debate last week. I was on a website that was providing occasional commentary and I would selectively unmute. I have read a good deal of follow-up and, yes, I do think there was a clear winner. That said, my thoughts turned toward what a win would like for the American people and for our Jewish people. As it turns out, they are really much the same.

Our Jewish values obligate us toward the strangers in our midst, those who are marginalized and have less. We must afford everyone a good home, access to good health care, food on their table, and a voice in what happens in the communities in which we live — not a society where only the voices of the wealthiest are heard.

In evaluating all candidates in this crucial election, we should hold up for a simple litmus test all who seek our vote. Do they put the needs of all ahead of their own selfish needs? Do they have real plans to help all of us? Of greatest importance, will they and/or do they govern with compassion? Without empathy, you cannot serve the American people and you are not governing with the Jewish values we hold as most important.

If you have not yet registered to vote, do it now!! Do not be afraid to ask everyone in your circle of friends, family and co-workers if they are registered to vote. After that, we must do all we can to get every registered voter to the polls. Voting, as Americans and Jews, is both a gift and a responsibility.