GOP is targeting Jewish voters in key states to reduce Democrats’ advantage

As the November 5 elections approach Republican The Jewish Coalition (RJC) is increasing its efforts to influence Jewish voters, especially those who have supported Republican candidates in the past.

In West Bloomfield, Michigan, Rachel Weinberg, a 72-year-old retired kindergarten teacher, expressed her support for Donald Trumpprioritizing their loyalty to Israel.

She said: “I vote for Israel. This is our life. I support Israel. Trump supports Israel with his mouth and his actions.”

Weinberg’s home was one of more than 20 that RJC canvassers visited last Sunday as part of a broader initiative to reach Jewish voters in five critical battleground states.

How did Jews vote in 2020?

The coalition hopes to mobilize support for Trump against Democrats Kamala Harrisespecially in light of ongoing discussions about the Israel-Hamas war, which has deepened divisions within the community.

Historically, Jewish voters nationwide have been inclined Democratic, with approximately 70 percent support Joe Biden in the 2020 elections.

However, RJC is working to change this dynamic by focusing on the approximately 15,000 new Jewish Republican-identified voters in Michigan since the last election.

Although Jewish voters make up just 2 percent of Michigan’s electorate, this demographic could prove crucial in a close race; In 2020, Biden won the state by just under 155,000 votes.

What is the Republican Jewish Coalition Victory Fund?

The coalition is targeting specific areas of Michigan, most notably Oakland County, which is known for its significant Jewish population.

Neighborhoods such as Farmington Hills, Oak Park, Southfield and West Bloomfield are receiving targeted coverage, including direct mail and digital ad campaigns designed to resonate with Jewish voters.

RJC committed $15 million to advertising in key states, with an additional $5 million allocated to door-to-door canvassing, marking a strategic shift in how it engages potential voters.

Halie Soifer, CEO of the Jewish Democratic Council of America, opposed the RJC’s announcements, emphasizing the importance of Jewish voters in society Democratic Coalition.

What impact will the Israel-Hamas war have on voters?

She criticized Trump for what she called anti-Semitic rhetoric and alignment with extremist views, saying Kamala Harris embodied the values ​​held by most American Jews.

The backdrop of the Israel-Hamas war increased tensions and influenced voter sentiment.

Since the outbreak of hostilities on October 7, which resulted in significant casualties on both sides, many Jewish Americans have expressed a sense of vulnerability, citing rising anti-Semitism and anti-Israel protests as factors that have deepened their concerns.

As Election Day approaches, the RJC’s focused efforts reflect a strategic response to the changing dynamics in Jewish vote a bloc that aims to use the current political climate to increase support for its candidate.

The outcome of this outreach could have significant implications for elections, especially in closely contested states where every vote counts.

This article includes additional reporting from The Associated Press.