Four years ago, a violent mob – encouraged by Trump’s speech calling on Vice President Pence to decertify the election results – stormed the US Capitol in an attack that shook our nation and underscored both the vulnerability of our democracy and the urgent need to defend it. Four years ago, J Street stood up for what was right and voiced our values.
Today, we are pleased that the process of peacefully transferring power was advanced without objection from those who did not support the winning candidate. This is how democracy is supposed to work, and when the candidates we support win in coming elections, we have every right to expect the same from our opponents.
Today’s anniversary is especially painful for all those who care about our democratic freedoms and our nation’s future. It’s hard to believe the attack’s lead instigator will soon return to the Oval Office, promising to pardon the very rioters who sought to overthrow the will of the people. Once again, we will be ready to stand up for the liberal democratic ideals that we hold so dear.
Recalling our community’s history and values, J Street remains steadfast in our commitment to the liberal and democratic principles that guide us. Over the next four years, we will do everything in our power to safeguard those principles as they face attacks and challenges.
We will continue to fight the embrace of antisemitism, white nationalism and outright racism by some in this country. We will push back against those encouraging political violence as a means of getting what they want. And we will work tirelessly to set the record straight when lies and disinformation clog our path to a more just world.
With the future of American democracy at stake – and the vast majority of American Jews deeply concerned about what Trump and his incoming administration will bring – it’s critical that groups representing the mainstream of Jewish and pro-Israel, pro-peace communities are prepared to defend democratic institutions and rights should they come under attack. Here, J Street will lead the charge.
J Street is locking arms with political allies, building strong coalitions with partner organizations and rallying support in our own communities to ensure the country we are leaving to our children is in a better place than it is today. Our challenge is great, but even greater is our determination to meet it head-on. Together, we’ll rise to the occasion.