July 15, 2024
The Central Conference of American Rabbis deplores the attempt to assassinate Former President Donald J. Trump at a political rally. We grieve the death of Corey Comperatore, who was murdered in the incident, and we pray for the healing of the wounded. We are grateful that Former President Trump survived the assassination attempt and that he appears not to have been seriously injured. We pray for his רפואה שלימה (r’fuah sh’leimah), his complete recovery, and for the complete recovery of all those injured.
We grieve, too, that our American society is plagued by increasing gun violence and increasing political violence. While we do not yet know what motivated the shooter, we state unequivocally: Violence has no place in the American democratic process.
Judaism’s teaching on the matter is simple and well known to virtually all Americans: “You shall not murder” (Exodus 20:13).
We commend President Biden’s order of an independent review of the security at the former president’s campaign rally in Pennsylvania. We must ensure that all who are engaged in the work of public service or who are running for office are safe. We call upon all people to join us in condemning political violence.
Rabbi Erica Asch, President
Rabbi Hara E. Person, Chief Executive
Central Conference of American Rabbis