Candidates in New York Hudson Valley are seeking the backing of ultra-Orthodox Jewish voters in key swing districts.
In the run-up to the upcoming elections, Representative Pat Ryan of New York, a Democrat, has been actively engaging with influential Hasidic rabbis in a bid to secure their support in what is considered to be a challenging race. Meanwhile, Representative Marc Molinaro, a Republican, made a point of acknowledging the Orthodox community during a recent debate, and Representative Mike Lawler, another Republican, visited a kosher shopping center in Monsey to connect with voters during a break in the Jewish high holidays.
The fact that these candidates are spending time in ultra-Orthodox Jewish enclaves in the Hudson Valley region of New York highlights the growing significance of Jewish voters in the state’s political landscape. Against the backdrop of ongoing conflicts in the Middle East and a rise in antisemitism, politicians are recognizing the need to engage with Jewish communities of all denominations to secure their support.
In a country where political divisions are stark, ultra-Orthodox voters stand out as a unique demographic. Unlike many other groups, they are not firmly aligned with a single party and have shown support for both Republican and Democratic candidates, making them valuable swing voters in closely contested races.
The attention being paid to Jewish voters in New York reflects a broader trend of politicians recognizing the importance of engaging with diverse communities to secure electoral success. As the political landscape continues to evolve, candidates are increasingly turning to targeted outreach efforts to connect with key demographics and build support for their campaigns.
Source: The NY Times
