RJC Responds to Rep. Yarmuth: Democrats Must Condemn Outrageous Remarks

January 26, 2015

Democrats Must Condemn Outrageous Remarks


Washington, D.C. – Today, the Republican Jewish Coalition (RJC), the nation's only grassroots organization of Jewish Republicans, responded to comments by Congressman John Yarmuth (D-KY).

Today, Congressman Yarmuth questioned genuine support for the state of Israel and its security, saying that, “a lot of [the support for Israel] has to do with fundraising.”  The RJC is especially concerned with the implications of these comments as they come on the heels of President Obama citing pressure from “donors” as the reason some Democrats support enhanced sanctions on Iran. 

RJC Executive Director Matt Brooks said:

“It seems that President Obama and Congressman Yarmuth live in the some parallel universe where any support for the state of Israel is the result of “donors” or “fundraising” and not genuine concern or support for Israel and its security. Despite the tradition of bipartisan support for Israel in Congress, these troubling episodes are occurring more and more frequently from Democrats, including the President. No wonder the GOP continues to make inroads with the Jewish community, increasing Republican support in 6 of the last 7 elections. If Democrats want to continue to be taken seriously by American Jews they should condemn these outrageous remarks.”