Election Showdown: New York’s Candidates Court the Orthodox Jewish Vote
As the countdown to Election Day heats up, three congressional candidates in New York are making a strategic pivot to one of the state’s most influential yet often overlooked voting blocs: the Orthodox Jewish community. With the stakes high in their respective races, Representatives Pat Ryan, Marc Molinaro, and Mike Lawler are stepping outside their usual campaign routines to engage with Hasidic rabbis and community members, recognizing that their support could be the key to victory.
A New Kind of Campaign Trail
Pat Ryan, a Democrat representing New York’s 18th District, recently made headlines by traveling hours from his upstate base to meet with Hasidic leaders. This unusual outreach underscores the importance of the Orthodox vote, especially as the political landscape shifts amid rising antisemitism and ongoing conflict in the Middle East. Just a night later, Republican Marc Molinaro, who represents a nearby district, made a point to acknowledge the Orthodox community during a debate, signaling his awareness of their potential impact.
Meanwhile, Mike Lawler, another Republican on the front lines, took advantage of a break in the Jewish high holidays to visit a kosher shopping center in Monsey, where he mingled with voters, tried on yarmulkes, and snapped selfies. These efforts reflect a growing recognition among candidates that where they spend their time can reveal who they believe will tip the scales in this election.
The Power of the Orthodox Vote
The Orthodox Jewish community, particularly in New York’s Hudson Valley, has emerged as a significant swing voting bloc. Unlike many other groups, they do not consistently align with one party, having supported both former President Donald Trump and Democratic candidates in the past. This unpredictability makes them a coveted constituency, especially in tight races where every vote counts.
Simcha Eichenstein, a state assemblyman and Democratic strategist, noted, “Here you have three congressional seats within miles of each other that could essentially decide the chamber, and the Orthodox Jewish community could play a pivotal role in each.” With both major parties keenly aware of this dynamic, leaders from both sides have been making the rounds, hoping to secure endorsements and support.
A Unique Voting Behavior
One of the challenges in courting the Orthodox vote is that they are notoriously difficult to poll. Many community members wait for endorsements from their grand rebbes just days before an election, making it hard to gauge their preferences ahead of time. This year, however, the stakes are particularly high, as candidates like Lawler and Ryan have been working hard to build relationships and demonstrate their commitment to the community’s needs.
For instance, Lawler has been proactive in his outreach, attending local events and showing up for community milestones. His efforts have not gone unnoticed; some voters have even switched their party affiliation to support him, citing his genuine engagement with the community. “He was the first politician from the Republican Party who actually reached out to the Jewish community,” said Shmuly Deutsch, a local voter who changed his registration to Republican.
The Race Ahead
As the election approaches, the candidates are ramping up their efforts. Lawler is expected to garner significant support from the Orthodox community, particularly after securing federal infrastructure grants and positioning himself as a strong pro-Israel advocate. Meanwhile, Ryan is also making inroads, having previously won a substantial portion of the Orthodox vote in 2022 and working to maintain that momentum.
On the other hand, Molinaro is not backing down. His district includes Hasidic enclaves that could deliver crucial votes, and he is keenly aware of the need to connect with these voters. His Democratic opponent, Josh Riley, is also attempting to appeal to swing constituencies, but the focus remains on how the Orthodox community will ultimately cast their ballots.
Conclusion: A Community in Focus
As the candidates continue to navigate this complex political landscape, one thing is clear: the Orthodox Jewish community is more than just a voting bloc; they are a vital part of the electoral equation in New York. With their unique voting patterns and the ability to sway tight races, the attention from candidates like Ryan, Molinaro, and Lawler highlights the growing importance of engaging with diverse communities in the pursuit of electoral success. As November approaches, all eyes will be on how this influential group decides to cast their votes, potentially shaping the future of Congress.
