Letters
Thinking about Steve Fulop
My family and I have been fortunate to become deeply involved in the vibrant Jewish community of New Jersey — through Federation, our congregation at Temple B’nai Jeshurun, and, amusingly, the 3-4 copies of New Jersey Jewish News that arrive at our house each week. (Note to editor: any chance we can streamline that?)
The past year and a half has been emotionally difficult. Sadly, local antisemitism is not receding — it’s intensifying. When I was 18, growing up in North Caldwell, our home was vandalized with swastikas. It was the second time this had happened. The first incident is something I rarely speak about — mainly because it’s so disturbing, I worry people won’t believe it. But it’s true. Back then, I thought I knew what fear around Jewish identity felt like. I was wrong. Today is worse.
We are living in a moment when local elected leaders must lead with unity, invest in education, enforce consequences, and ensure protection. That’s why the upcoming governor’s race — starting with the Democratic primary in June — is so critical.
I’ve followed the campaign discourse closely, including criticisms aimed at Mayor Steven Fulop, particularly regarding his position on the IHRA definition of antisemitism. He remarked there might be “a better way” to address the issue. I personally disagree with that stance. But does that single statement disqualify him from being an advocate for the Jewish community — or a serious contender to lead our state?
Mayor Fulop’s record deserves more careful consideration. His father served in the IDF. He attended Yeshiva, identifies as Jewish, and actively supports the Jewish Federation. While none of this alone guarantees our community’s support, aside from the IHRA comments, he has consistently demonstrated alignment with Jewish communal priorities.
I’ll admit, I recently found myself in a heated social media exchange on this very topic. The thread revolved around a Muslim civic group endorsing local candidates affiliated with Fulop’s team — not Fulop himself. Yet the reaction was swift and categorical: “Fulop is bad for the Jewish community.” This kind of guilt by association is problematic. Donald Trump was endorsed by the KKK. Kamala Harris by multiple BDS-aligned groups. Should those endorsements alone dictate how Jews vote?
A recent mailer from a Fulop-aligned PAC showcased his support for Jewish issues. When I shared it with friends, the response was, “Too little, too late — I heard he’s no friend of the Jewish community.” I asked where they’d heard that. The answer: Facebook and other candidates’ talking points.
There are multiple viable Democratic candidates for governor, all with varying degrees of community support. Yet somehow, Mayor Fulop has become the lightning rod for alleged antisemitism. I don’t understand why — and maybe I never will. No, he’s not campaigning with an Israeli flag draped over his shoulders, but his platform emphasizes combating antisemitism, safeguarding our children, and supporting Israel.
If Jewish values and community interests are key to your vote — please, dig into the facts. Don’t let soundbites or social media speculation shape your decision.
Let’s elevate the conversation. Let’s vote on substance, not hearsay.
Jeff Feinstein
Short Hills
comments