by Gordon Haas

As the 2012 elections quickly approach, if you are anything like me, you are watching the presidential debates, listening to the pundits spin the different candidate’s positions, and being bombarded by Facebook posts. As you already know, this is a very important election cycle, one that can change the direction of U.S. policy for years to come. 

But where do these candidates really stand on issues of great importance to you and to the Jewish community-at-large? What is their position on Israel and to what end will they stand with Israel and ensure her security? What is their view on Iran gaining nuclear capacity and where are their “red lines?” What are their views on protecting the most vulnerable in our community while finding solutions to the debt crisis? What is their commitment to restoring compromise to governance?

To hear first-hand from the candidates, we invite you to attend the Senatorial Candidates Forum on October 22 in Livingston and the District 7 Congressional Debate on October 21 in Scotch Plains. The CRC, in collaboration with our partner organizations, is sponsoring these forums to help ensure that members of the Jewish community are well informed educated voters. 

This is also a moment for you to stand up and be counted. This is a moment to show the candidates that our community stands up for Israel, protects the poor, and is committed to stopping Iran from gaining nuclear capability — that we care about the positions the candidates take and will hold them accountable once in office.

It is also an opportunity for our community to strengthen our relationships with the candidates and thank them for the work they have done in the past on our behalf. During these difficult economic times we must ensure our community is seen as engaged and caring about the political process. For all of these reasons we urge you to attend. 

It is also important to note that District 7 has been redistricted. There are a number of towns in the Greater MetroWest area, such as Millburn and Short Hills, that are new to District 7. Both candidates are new to you. This will be a great opportunity to meet them and learn about their policies and vision for the future. Here is a link to the towns in the new District 7.

For more information on the Candidate Forums, visit www.jfedgmw.org/forums. Although they are free and open to the public, seating is limited. We encourage you to RSVP so we can prepare properly for the number of people that will attend