GOP Hopeful Meets Brooklyn Jews

By COLlive reporter

U.S. Senator Rand Paul from Kentucky, vying for the Republican presidential ticket in 2016, had his first meeting with frum Jews in Brooklyn since announcing his run.

Senator Paul was welcomed to the Torah Umesorah education network by a board member and close friend, Rabbi Nate Segal. The two spent a Shabbos together in Jerusalem.

In a campaign visit to New York City, Paul accepted the invitation to meet with Jewish community leaders and discuss some pressing issues.

Upon being introduced by Dr. Richard Roberts who hosted for lunch, a Q and A on host of issues ranging from Iran to school choice commenced.

“After enunciating his positions on negotiations with Iran and elaborating how we need to understand the ramifications of war vs. negotiations, the audience understood the thoughtful approach of Rand Paul,” said Ezra Friedlander, CEO of The Friedlander Group who has often hosted Paul at events in Washington that his firm coordinates.

Friedlander added that “the media often distorts his careful deliberations about this crucial issue which is very refreshing in this era of ‘sound byte, one-size-fits-all’ responses, which is often how candidates running for public office respond.”

Senator Paul spoke about the legislation “Stand with Israel Act of 2015” This legislation would halt all U.S. foreign aid to the Palestinian Authority (P.A.) until it renounces violence, purges terrorists from its ranks, and recognizes the nation of Israel.

The Stand with Israel Act of 2014 was introduced last Congress in response to the Palestinian Authority’s attempts to form a unity government with the terrorists of Hamas—a unity government that still remains.

Paul also stated that “Iron Dome is a great example of how the cooperation between the United States and Israel, and assistance from the U.S. to Israel, can be used for strategic goals and in advancement of security in the region.”

He told participants, “America must always stand together with our allies and the safety and security of Israel which is our closest ally in the region, will require the US to continue funding effective partnerships like Iron Dome and I support that.”

“It was a pleasure to have an open and frank discussion with Sen. Rand Paul,” said Rabbi Yaacov Behrman, Director of The Jewish Future Alliance in Crown Heights. “His perspective was fascinating. I thought he came across as personable and funny. I also appreciated his candidness.”