Rona Kaufman Challenges False Narrative on Anti-Semitism
- Pittsburgh’s Jewish community is preparing for elections amid increased anti-Semitism and recent violence.
- Local residents express concern over inadequate support following a synagogue attack compared to past incidents.
- Concerns about potential political leadership are influencing voter sentiment and expectations for future support.
More than six years after a tragic synagogue shooting and a year following a Hamas attack, the Jewish community in Squirrel Hill, Pittsburgh, faced rising anti-Semitism while preparing for critical state elections. Many residents observed a lack of support for their community in response to recent violence compared to the aftermath of the earlier shooting. Rona Kaufman, a Democrat and law professor, criticized the academic narrative that downplays anti-Semitism related to violence against Jews in Israel. Local individuals expressed varied political sentiments, with some shifting their voting preferences due to concerns over anti-Semitism and Israel's treatment under potential leadership. The election is seen as pivotal, particularly amid fears regarding the nation's stance on Israel and its implications for the local Jewish community.