In his remarks at a Washington, D.C. antisemitism event, the former president Donald Trump portrayed himself as the “defender” of Jewish Americans. He expressed that if he wins the upcoming election, he would be their “best friend” in the White House. However, he suggested that if he falls short, Jewish voters could bear some responsibility.
“My commitment to Jewish Americans is clear: with your support, I will be your protector,” Trump stated, emphasizing his dedication.
While addressing Jewish voters, Trump cited some statistics—without mentioning their source—indicating that his support among Jewish voters might lag behind that of Vice President Kamala Harris. “I’m at 40%; that means 60% are backing someone who isn’t friendly to Israel,” he claimed, attributing his low numbers to a supposed Democratic influence. “We can’t allow this. Forty percent isn’t good enough if we want to win.”
Trump lamented how both he and Jewish Americans have been treated, implying they face significant threats. “I haven’t been treated fairly, and you haven’t either. The U.S. isn’t in a good place,” he remarked.
He further stated, “I won’t call this a prediction, but I believe that the Jewish vote could play a huge role in my loss. If I’m at 40%, that means 60% are choosing the opposing side. The Democrats aren’t supportive of Israel; they’re harmful.”
Later that evening, at an event for the Israeli American Council, Trump reiterated his concerns about his support within the Jewish community. He concluded his speech by saying that Jewish voters hadn’t treated him “properly,” previously suggesting that those voting Democrat might need a serious reconsideration. “To put it simply, I haven’t received the support I expected from Jewish voters,” he said. “If I lose, it’ll be on them, as 60% are voting for what I consider the enemy. Israel, in my view, could be in jeopardy within two years, and I stand by that,” he declared, as audience members appeared to engage in side conversations.
Earlier that night, Trump urged his Democratic opponent to renounce support from anyone associated with Hamas, anti-Semitism, or those who harbor animosity toward Israel on college campuses and elsewhere.
