July 24, 2008
Jewish community divided over Obama
As November gets closer, local residents have been taking a closer look at candidates for the presidency.
With Barack Obama's numbers on the rise, it is becoming more and more likely that the Illinois senator will find himself leading the Democratic race come poll time.
With that possibility, the Jewish community recently has made itself vocal and present, with opinions about Obama that range from support to staunch disapproval.
One theme separating the yeas from the nays seems to be a subject important to many in the Jewish community.
"It all comes down to Israel," said Scott Leiberman, 52, a Miami resident and member of the Greater Miami Jewish Federation.
"I know when I look at a candidate, I look at how that person acts about Israel. I know my friends feel that way, too. And there is concern that Obama does not have the best track record in reference to Israel."
Concern about Obama's loyalty to Israel has been fostered by the senator's comments regarding negotiation between Israel and Palestine.
Some think opening up the possibility of compromise would be a step backward for Israel.
"If you are a true Zionist, you believe in Israel and the Jewish people's homeland," said Cynthia Weiber, 60, a Miami resident and registered voter. "How can it be good to suggest that we negotiate with people who are terrorists?"
Some people think Obama has not been vocal enough with support for Israel.
"If you have one person who says Israel is a country that should be protected and another person who says nothing at all, who would you pick?" Weiber said.
While some members of the community show trepidation toward Obama, others are busy helping answer questions.
"We are an important demographic," said Sam Starzky, 48, a Weston resident and Obama volunteer.
"Florida gets 25 electoral votes; that's considerable. And the Jewish community in South Florida has a tremendous possibility of tipping the scale one way or another. That's why it's so important that we not only vote, but we vote smart."
What the smart decision is remains to be seen.
Some think a vote for Obama would be a detriment to the Jewish community, and some think it would be a coup.
"A lot of people are making a fuss for no reason," said Michael Schwartzman, 63, a Boca Raton resident who has donated to the Obama campaign.
"Obama has never said anything but positive comments about Israel. He has said in speech after speech that he supports Israel 100 percent, that he thinks it is a high priority to solve the conflict and that Israel is one of our greatest allies. How can anyone misinterpret that?"
Obama's connection to the Islamic faith hasn't helped the controversy.
"Obama has said time and again that his father was a non-practicing Muslim. He has also said he has never been anything but a practicing Christian," Schwartzman said.
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