The second rule is that, for now at least, they represent the best information we have about the question occupying Jews of all political persuasions: How many Jews voted for Donald Trump? And how many voted for Kamala Harris?

In recent decades, between 20% and 30% of American Jews have supported Republicans in national elections. The GOP hit a high-water mark in 1980, when Ronald Reagan won some 40% of Jewish votes, but the more typical split makes Jews among the most reliably Democratic demographics in the United States.

But this year, with some Jews feeling alienated from the left and others all-in on the right due to Israel, some speculated that Trump could post an unusually strong showing among Jewish voters.

Initial polls suggest that was not the case, at least in the aggregate. The National Election Pool, which produces an exit poll for a consortium of major news organizations, found that 79% of Jews said they voted Democratic, compared to 21% who voted Republican.

A second major analysis, for Fox News by a nonpartisan polling firm using data from the Associated Press, found lower but still substantial support for Harris. It concluded that 66% of Jews voted for her.

Edison Research, which conducts the national pool poll, surveyed voters in 10 states: Arizona, Florida, Georgia, Michigan, Nevada, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Texas, Wisconsin. It did not survey voters in New York or California, which are home to the largest Jewish populations and reliably vote Democratic by wide margins.

It did not immediately release details about how many voters were surveyed and cautioned that the results could change as polling continued and results were adjusted to reflect the real vote tallies, a process called weighting that is a standard component of survey methodology.

If accurate, the National Election Pool’s result would be the lowest proportion of Jewish votes for a Republican presidential candidate in 24 years.

But that’s a big if: Exit polls are notoriously unreliable, with famous examples of polls failing to reflect the real results of elections.

Some have shifted in methodology as the proportion of voters casting ballots in person on Election Day has fallen over time. And like all polls, they can also reflect the partisan bent of their pollsters.

Fox News, which is right-leaning but has a reputation for reliable polling, conducted its own Election Day “voter analysis” that it said solved for some of the problems in traditional exit polling. It found that 66% of Jews voted for Harris, compared to 31% for Trump. The poll still found that Jews voted for Harris at higher rates than members of any other religion.

The Fox News analysis, which was conducted by the nonpartisan firm NORC using data collected by the Associated Press, covered more states and broke down the results by state, enabling an analysis of the Jewish vote by state. It found that 55% of Jews in New York and 56% of Jews in Florida voted for Harris, likely reflecting the impact of the states’ significant Orthodox populations.

In contrast, the poll found that 76% of Jews in California voted for Harris. The number of Jews in most states was too small to allow for state-level reporting.

Being an informed voter is crucial for a healthy democracy, as it empowers individuals to make educated decisions that reflect their values and priorities. Knowledge of candidates, policies, and issues ensures that citizens can actively participate in shaping their communities and positively influence the direction of their government – whether for School Board, City Council, Congress, Senate, or President.

 To vote, U.S. citizens must present a valid photo ID, when voting early or on Election Day. If the polls close while still in line on Election Day, voters still have the right to vote and should remain in line. 

ELECTION DATES 

Saturday, Nov. 2 – EARLY VOTING ENDS at 5 pm

Tuesday, Nov. 5 – ELECTION DAY POLLS are open 6 am – 7 pm

Tuesday, Nov. 5 – VOTE BY MAIL ends at 7 pm

Those who experience trouble on Election Day should call the non-partisan Election Protection Hotline at 1-866-687-8683 for assistance.

Visit www.JewishVA.org/Election24 and be ready to make informed decisions on November 5, 2024.

JCRC strives to motivate, educate, and advocate on issues important to the Jewish community locally, nationally, and globally. For more information about the upcoming elections on November 5, to determine which district is yours, which candidates will be on your ballot, and to learn more about the candidates, visit JewishVA.org/Election24.

Jen Kiggans

Jewish Community Relations Council: Data released in September by the Federal Bureau of Investigation reveals that in 2023, reported single-bias anti-Jewish hate crime incidents rose to 1,832 incidents, a sharp increase of 63 percent from 2022, and the highest number ever recorded by the FBI since it began collecting data in 1991. How do you plan to address this rising hate in Congress?

Jen Kiggans: The explosion of antisemitism we’ve seen both at home and abroad in the wake of Hamas’ unprovoked October 7 attacks must be universally condemned. There is absolutely no place for this disgusting hate and bigotry in our great nation, and it’s more important than ever to use our voices as elected officials to call out these incidents of antisemitism, as well as those responsible for them.

On the federal level, I’ve worked hard to be a voice and an advocate for our Jewish community, as well as for our ally, Israel. In the wake of October 7, I called on my colleagues on the Appropriations Committee to reject harmful funding cuts to the Nonprofit Security Grant Program, which is critical to the safety and security of synagogues in Virginia and around the country. I also stood with more than 300 of my colleagues on the House floor to vote to condemn and denounce the drastic rise of antisemitism in the United States and around the world. Additionally, I introduced a bipartisan resolution to condemn Hamas’ use of sexual violence, which passed the House of Representatives in February. Though we’ve seen troubling rhetoric and behavior on college campuses, television networks, and even in the halls of Congress, our commonsense leaders will ALWAYS stand with Israel and the Jewish people in our country and around our world.

JCRC: At a recent Summit to address rising antisemitism on university campuses, AJC CEO Ted Deutch shared, “Only by ensuring that the voices of the Jewish community are not silenced can we ensure the free exchange of ideas, the importance of which extends beyond campus and forms the bedrock of our liberal democracy.” How will you address the hate on university campuses across this country?

JK: We must ensure that Americans are not subjected to threats and intimidation such as the disgusting displays we saw on college campuses across the country this past year. It is the duty of university administrators, education and local leaders, and all of us to make it known that this hatred has no place in our communities and in our country. It’s why I voted to condemn antisemitism on college campuses and have repeatedly called for accountability for those who have failed to adequately address it.

The Congressional hearings that led to the resignation of top university officials were a good start, but we must continue to keep up the pressure on our institutions of high learning to foster environments which support a wide variety of opinions and beliefs devoid of bigotry and hatred.

JCRC: What do you see as the impact of a nuclear Iran? What should the U.S. Congress do to counter Iran’s power in the Middle East?

JK: Iran must NEVER be allowed to gain access to a nuclear weapon. The Ayatollah has been very clear about his plans to eliminate Israel from existence and wage nuclear war on the United States and the west. The development of nuclear weapons by the Iranian Government would be nothing short of a catastrophe for the Middle East and our world as a whole, which is why I voted to freeze the nearly $11B that the Biden-Harris Administration inexplicably sent to the Iranian Regime last year. I also proudly cosponsored the Iranian Sanctions Enforcement Act of 2023, which would provide additional funding for the seizure of Iranian assets.

Though Iran may not currently have a nuclear weapon, they continue to actively pursue ways to destroy Israel and the west, including through the use of nuclear weapons. Whether it be the launching of ballistic missiles at Israel or continuous acts of terrorism by Hamas, Hezbollah, and their other proxies in the region, there is no doubt that Iran feels emboldened and will only continue to escalate their aggression. These acts of terrorism are not just affecting Israel; Iran’s proxies have injured multiple U.S. servicemembers in the region. Malicious and oppressive regimes like Iran only understand one language: strength. Any strategy of appeasement is severely misguided; we must return to policies of harsh sanctions to ensure that the Ayatollah’s destructive plans never come to fruition.

JCRC: As a Member of Congress, what would you say to those who deny Israel’s legitimacy and its right to defend itself and its people?

JK: Israel is our closest ally and the only democracy in the Middle East. Anyone who seeks to delegitimize or deny their right to exist and defend themselves is severely misguided and does not stand with the people of Israel and the global Jewish community.

Earlier this year I had the opportunity to visit Israel, where we toured several of the sites of the October 7th Massacre, including the grounds of the Nova Music Festival. We also met with the families of some of the hostages and listened to their powerful testimonies, held a briefing with top IDF Officials, and visited a few of Israel’s beautiful historical sites. The trip was incredibly moving. Visiting the sites where Hamas began their unprovoked war just months after it happened was powerful beyond words. While much of our trip was very solemn, it also reaffirmed my commitment to Israel and her people.

Today – and every day – I am proud to stand strong and be a steadfast advocate for Israel and our shared democratic values.

Missy Cotter Smasal

Jewish Community Relations Council: Data released in September by the Federal Bureau of Investigation reveals that in 2023, reported single-bias anti-Jewish hate crime incidents rose to 1,832 incidents, a sharp increase of 63 percent from 2022 and the highest number ever recorded by the FBI since it began collecting data in 1991. How do you plan to address this rising hate in Congress?

Missy Cotter Smasal: I am very concerned about the rise of antisemitism and the anti-Israel sentiment that has increased in the US. It’s incumbent upon leaders, both in Congress and in the community, to reject discrimination, to recognize the increased threat posed to the Jewish community and find ways to counter that threat while providing more safety and security. Leaders must be resolute about combating antisemitism. I will always stand with the Jewish community against hatred and bigotry and support strong hate crimes laws to hold those who break the law accountable.

JCRC: At a recent Summit to address rising antisemitism on university campuses, AJC CEO Ted Deutch shared, “Only by ensuring that the voices of the Jewish community are not silenced can we ensure the free exchange of ideas, the importance of which extends beyond campus and forms the bedrock of our liberal democracy.” How will you address the hate on university campuses across this country?

MCS: Colleges and universities should be free and open places to exchange ideas without hatred or bigotry – and colleges must hold students accountable for inciting violence or impeding the education of others. Threats against students, including the Jewish community, are completely unacceptable and cannot be tolerated, and universities must enforce their rules firmly and fairly to keep students and faculty safe.

JCRC: What do you see as the impact of a nuclear Iran? What should the U.S. Congress do to counter Iran’s power in the Middle East?

MCS: Iran cannot be allowed to acquire nuclear weapons, which would represent a serious, existential security threat to Israel, the broader Middle East, and the world as a whole. I unequivocally support efforts to prevent Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons, and in Congress, I will support diplomatic efforts to reign in Iran. I support building global coalitions to counter Iran’s aggressive behavior. But, Iran’s aggressive behavior is more than just their nuclear ambitions. Diplomatic efforts must recognize this moving forward. In addition, Iran continues to fund Hamas and other terrorist groups in the Middle East. Their actions continue to impede the path to peace in the region. Ultimately, all options must remain on the table to prevent a nuclear Iran.

JCRC: As a Member of Congress, what would you say to those who deny Israel’s legitimacy and its right to defend itself and its people?

MCS: Israel has a right to exist – that is both a moral and geopolitical imperative. Israel has been an important partner for the United States and a key ally in our foreign policy initiatives for over 75 years. The U.S.-Israel relationship is rooted in mutual security concerns and a shared support of democracy. In Congress, I will work to strengthen this special relationship by supporting efforts to provide foreign and military aid, solidifying the cultural ties between our two countries, and advocating for foreign policy measures that support our alliance.

As a former Surface Warfare Officer in the U.S. Navy who was deployed aboard the U.S.S. Trenton during Operation Enduring Freedom, I am steadfast in my resolve to fight terrorism and believe we must support our allies during times of crises and attack. On October 7th, Israel was attacked by terrorists, and they must defend themselves against future attacks. We should increase our efforts to support our democratic allies across the world by funding our full foreign aid budget and by promoting efforts to support democracy and Western values.

In Congress, I will honor and support the 2016 Memorandum of Understanding between the Israeli and United States governments. As a core ally to the United States, this commitment to continue aid to Israel without additional conditions signifies the strong and enduring relationship between the United States and Israel, particularly in the realm of defense and security cooperation. This aid is crucial for Israel’s security and defense capabilities in a volatile region, particularly after the October 7th terrorist attack committed by Hamas.

Candidate for U.S. Senate –
Democrat Tim Kaine

Antisemitism has reached an unprecedented level in the United States; what do you think Congress’ role in fighting this age-old hatred is, and how will you fulfill that role?

We have seen an alarming rise in antisemitism and Islamophobia in the wake of October 7th. Religious freedom has long been the bedrock of who we are as Americans. As someone who takes my own faith very seriously, I am determined to fight back against the evils of hatred. I am pleased to be a member of the Senate Bipartisan Caucus on Antisemitism, co-led by Senators Jacky Rosen and Jim Lankford. In 2022, I successfully urged the Biden Administration to develop a national strategy to combat antisemitism. We must embrace a whole-of-government response to antisemitism by working to implement the recommendations contained in the U.S. National Strategy to Counter Antisemitism announced by the Biden Administration in June 2023. Senator Warner and I also wrote to Education Secretary Miguel Cardona to ask the Department to use its resources and influence to do more to combat antisemitism and Islamophobia on college campuses. And in the wake of the recent disturbing rise in antisemitism, I urged the DHS and FBI to do more to combat hate. I also helped pass the National Security Supplemental earlier this year, which included $400 million for the Nonprofit Security Grant Program to provide security improvements and training to organizations and places of worship, including Jewish institutions. Finally, I also believe in highlighting not just the darkness but also the light. I am proud to have joined Senator Bill Hagerty on a bipartisan measure posthumously awarding the Congressional Gold Medal to a group of 60 diplomats from some two dozen countries that used their influence to help Jews escape Nazi-occupied Europe during World War II. Religious freedom is a fundamental American principle, and we must never stop fighting for a society where people of different religious faiths can live in the same neighborhoods, attend the same schools, work side by side, and do so as friends — without fear of religious discrimination.

As we approach a year since the October 7th massacre, what role do you think Congress should play in the Israel-Hamas war and its resolution?

The acts of terror on October 7th were horrific. For the last nine months, I’ve worked with Democrats, Republicans, and the administration to ensure that Israel has the support it needs. At the same time, much more must be done to protect civilian life in Gaza. That’s why I’ve pushed to prevent civilian casualties, supported the safe and swift delivery of humanitarian assistance to civilians in Gaza and the West Bank, and advocated for finding long-term solutions that allow Palestinian and Israeli communities to live alongside each other in peace. We must secure both a hostage release deal and a ceasefire to put an end to the immense suffering in the region.

Candidate for U.S. Senate –
Republican Hung Cao

Antisemitism has reached an unprecedented level in the United States; what do you think Congress’ role in fighting this age-old hatred is, and how will you fulfill that role?

This is what has become of our country under Joe Biden and Kamala Harris. Never did I think I would see vicious antisemitic rioting in America like we have seen in recent months and years. Let me be clear: Jewish Americans have the right to live free from harassment, and Israel has the right to defend itself. Congress must stand by our ally and remind our Jewish friends and neighbors that we will not tolerate antisemitism in any form, and when I’m elected to the U.S. Senate, I promise to support Israel in every way possible, as I did in uniform. In 2003, one of my team’s missions was to respond to any possible SCUD attack from Iraq during our initial invasion. Sadly, my opponent Tim Kaine thinks pro-Hamas, pro-Hezbollah rioters have a point and a voice that needs to be heard. I completely disagree.

As we approach a year since the October 7th massacre, what role do you think Congress should play in the Israel-Hamas war and its resolution?

The United States has provided Israel with a lot of support for many years and it is more important than ever to continue to support Israel in every way that we can. We have always been friends of Israel through the Iron Dome and in return, they have provided us with critical intelligence from the region. Israel is the ONLY Jewish state in the world. Israel has never asked for a single American to come on their land to protect them. They only ask that we stand by them. Israel’s equivalent of 9/11 came on their Sabbath and the 50th anniversary of the Yom Kippur War. The world watched in horror as Hamas launched its latest reign of terror, launching upwards of 5,000 rockets into Israel and killing thousands of men, women, and children. It’s Congress’ responsibility to ensure we continue to partner with them, while also shoring up our military resources and securing our border.

Election Day is near, be prepared

The Jewish Community Relations Council of the United Jewish Federation of Tidewater has compiled an Election 2024 toolkit to educate, engage, and inform Tidewater voters about ‘all things’ election. It offers information on how to check voter registration status, find a polling place, determine what district to vote in, information about candidates, and more. Visit www.JewishVA.org/Election24 and be ready to make informed decisions on November 5, 2024.

 Beyond October 7, seeing what was starting to take place on college campuses and in the streets around the U.S. and other Western countries, was a huge wake up call. Many of us knew there were undercurrents of antisemitism plaguing our nation, but the flood gates really opened and continue to ravage our community in full force. 

 Seeing all of this unfold since October 7 made us think harder about the political climate in Virginia and, specifically, Hampton Roads. How is the war against Hamas, and more broadly Iran and its proxies, shaping opinions of leaders in our own community? Are elected officials standing up to antisemitism and anti-Zionism without hesitation? Will they continue to do so in the future? 

 We have realized since those early weeks how critical it is to elect public officials who understand the Jewish community’s concerns and values, who stand with us on our darkest days and who will fight to protect our basic rights. 

 We have been lucky in Virginia, especially in Hampton Roads, to have many leaders that have not only been vocal in their support for Israel, but have visited Israel, have voted to defend Israel, and voted to strengthen protections for the Jewish community. Imagine if the leadership in our state and region did not unequivocally stand with Israel. 

 Would we have less funding for community and building security? Would elected officials produce statements that inflame the masses and direct hatred towards us? Would our children go to school where they face Jew-hatred and antisemitic rhetoric with no consequence? Would police be unwilling to stand guard at our synagogues and community events? It’s hard to fathom, but not out of the realm of possibility in the near future. In short, we would feel alone and targeted. 

 Ensuring we continue to drive support for Israel and the Jewish community begins with electing (and re-electing) people to office who have moral clarity and will defend our biggest ally in the Middle East and protect the Jewish community. Words are not enough; we must also measure candidates by their actions.

 As we approach Election Day, now is the time to educate yourself on the candidates, especially at the local level. Beyond the presidential race, it is important to know the candidates for Senate, House, and especially local races such as Mayor, city council, and school board, who may have an even greater direct impact on our community. The famous phrase “All politics is local” holds true once again. We need to place people in local offices who will steer our community in a positive direction. For example:

•Stand firmly against calls to denounce and limit U.S. support for Israel. 

•Increase calls for cultural training for administrators and staff within city governments and school systems around antisemitism. 

•Speak out and act against antisemitism and anti-Zionism. 

•Push back on banning events, speakers, and books that broaden a student’s worldview.

Please take the time to do your research. Most candidates have detailed websites that list their positions. Beyond that, if you are on social media channels, look at how candidates and current officials have spoken about the war, the hostages, and antisemitism in the U.S. If they are currently in office, look at their voting track record when it comes to Israel and the Jewish community. Don’t rely on hearsay and the noise – really take the time to make an informed decision. Don’t walk into the polling station to vote for president and then haphazardly vote down ballot. Local and state officials often hold more sway in our daily lives than the top office. This is a critical time for our community, and your informed vote matters. 

 In the next issue of the Jewish News, you will see more about the candidates’ positions as they relate to our Jewish community. In the meantime, visit United Jewish Federation of Tidewater’s Jewish Community Relations Council’s 2024 Election page at JewishVA.org/Election24 for links to check your voter registration status, find your polling place, determine what district you vote in, and which candidates will be on your ballot. Please read the information thoroughly and be ready to make informed decisions on November 5, 2024.

Olga Eskinazi and Shikma Rubin are members of United Jewish Federation of Tidewater’s Jewish Community Relations Council’s Steering Committee.