“Rep. Keith Ellison has been a close ally of the progressive Jewish community in Minnesota and nationwide throughout his career. He has unfailingly advanced the cause of tolerance and respect for religious minorities during his time in Congress. Crucially, we believe he is the best leader for the Democratic Party because he values its racial and religious diversity and also understands the importance of grassroots organizing.

“While we welcome debate about substantive policy positions held by Ellison and other candidates for the job, the rehashed accusations of antisemitism currently being leveled against Rep. Ellison are simply without merit. Antisemitism is a real, ongoing threat in the United States, but that threat comes overwhelmingly from the extreme right. For example, President-elect Donald Trump’s selection of Stephen Bannon, a peddler of white supremacist and antisemitic conspiracy theories, as his chief adviser is infinitely more concerning than the regurgitated innuendo being circulated about Rep. Ellison, much of it originating from right-wing sources.

“Bend the Arc is committed to advancing progressive and Jewish values in order to create a more just and equitable society, and we unequivocally reaffirm our support for Rep. Ellison.  He has stood with us, and we know that he shares our principles and values.  That is why we continue to believe in his leadership and support his bid to become the chair of the Democratic National Committee.”

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