Backlash Over Rabbi's Call to Vote for Harris

August 17, 2024 - Adas Israel, a prominent synagogue in Washington, D.C., is facing significant backlash from its congregants following remarks made by Co-Senior Rabbi Lauren Holtzblatt. During a recent Jewish Democratic Council of America event, Holtzblatt asserted that Jews "need to elect Vice President Kamala Harris" to align with "sacred texts," a statement that has sparked outrage among members who feel the synagogue's leadership is pushing a partisan agenda. The historic synagogue, which has counted notable figures like Supreme Court Justices Elena Kagan and Ruth Bader Ginsburg among its members, is experiencing growing discontent over what some congregants describe as "insulting" left-wing advocacy. Many members are reportedly dreading the upcoming high holidays due to the perceived political bias of the leadership. Holtzblatt, a well-known supporter of Harris, did not clarify which Jewish texts support her claim that Jews are compelled to vote for the vice president. Criticism from congregants has been vocal, with one longtime member expressing frustration over being told how to vote based on their Jewish identity. Others echoed similar sentiments, describing the synagogue's atmosphere as "borderline insufferable" for those who do not share the leadership's political views. Additionally, members are displeased with the decision to feature Lin-Manuel Miranda, a non-Jewish Democratic activist, as the headliner for the synagogue's Yom Kippur programming, further fueling concerns about the synagogue's political direction.