Further Reflections on the Rev. Warnock Piece

I want to clarify my purpose in writing my piece on Rev. Warnock. While I have never endorsed a candidate in all my years in the rabbinate, I have always challenged those like Rev. Warnock whose records I see as inimical to Israel’s well-being and the well-being of Am Yisrael. In that spirit, I should have also examined the record of his opponent, Senator Kelly Loeffler.

I have now become aware that Senator Loeffler eagerly accepted the endorsement of Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene, a supporter of QAnon. This despicable group promotes the most egregious forms of anti-Semitism and must be responded to fearlessly. I say this based on my many decades as a rabbi-activist, during which I have called out – and protested face-to-face – people from the white supremacist camp, the Nation of Islam and Muslim fundamentalists as well as many others, including, sadly, Jewish extremists. 

I take criticism very seriously, especially when it comes from people I respect, and especially from students who have become my teachers, about whom I care deeply.   

I continue to encourage the open, honest and respectful dialogue that I have always tried to promote throughout my rabbinate.   

With God’s help, I pray that I will always be able to speak from my conscience and love for my people, America, and Israel whenever I feel it is imperative.