Trump woos Jewish Americans after ally faces antisemitism allegations

This came after a CNN report accused political ally Robinson of making antisemitic and inflammatory comments

Former President Donald Trump pledged his unwavering support for Jewish Americans on Thursday, declaring he would be their “best friend” in the White House.

This came just hours after a CNN report accused his political ally, North Carolina Lt. Gov. Mark Robinson, of making antisemitic and inflammatory comments.

Robinson, who is running for governor in North Carolina, reportedly referred to himself as a “black NAZI” and expressed admiration for Adolf Hitler in a 2012 online post.

Despite these revelations, Robinson vowed to remain in the gubernatorial race, a decision that could complicate Trump’s own campaign.

Robinson has long been considered a rising star within the Republican Party, despite a history of controversial remarks about race, gender, and abortion.

His recent comments have added fuel to ongoing debates over racism and extremism within the GOP, particularly as the party gears up for the 2024 presidential election.

Trump, speaking at events aimed at Jewish donors and the Israeli-American Council in Washington, D.C., did not directly address the scandal surrounding Robinson but took a firm stand against antisemitism.

“My promise to Jewish Americans is this: With your vote, I will be your defender, your protector, and I will be the best friend Jewish Americans have ever had in the White House,” Trump declared. “In all fairness, I already am,” he added.

The former president’s campaign issued a statement after the CNN story, but it avoided mentioning Robinson by name.

Instead, the campaign stressed that Trump was “focused on winning the White House and saving this country,” calling North Carolina a “vital part” of his strategy to reclaim the presidency.

Robinson’s allegations could impact Trump’s campaign

Robinson’s remarks, particularly his past claim that he preferred Adolf Hitler to US leaders, have raised concerns among Republicans about how this controversy could affect Trump’s chances in North Carolina.

Republican pollster Paul Shumaker, who has worked with key political figures in the state, warned that the scandal could harm Trump’s campaign: “The question is going to be, does Mark Robinson cost Donald Trump the White House?”

Trump won North Carolina in both 2016 and 2020, and the state is considered crucial for his path to victory in 2024.

However, public polls show Robinson trailing his Democratic opponent, Attorney General Josh Stein, by roughly 10 points. If Robinson’s controversies continue to fester, Trump’s support in the battleground state could be threatened.

Amid the unfolding scandal, Kamala Harris’ campaign seized the opportunity to criticize Trump’s association with Robinson. Ammar Moussa, a spokesperson for Harris, shared a photo of Trump alongside Robinson on social media, writing, “Donald Trump has a Mark Robinson problem.”

The North Carolina Republican Party has stood by Robinson, issuing a statement that noted the candidate had “categorically denied the allegations made by CNN,” and accused Democrats of attempting to demonize him with personal attacks.

Trump’s Jewish outreach and record on Israel

At Thursday’s event in Washington, Trump emphasized his past accomplishments in supporting Israel during his time in office. He pointed to key policy decisions, such as moving the U.S. Embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem and recognizing Israel’s sovereignty over the Golan Heights, as evidence of his commitment to the Jewish state. These moves, long sought by pro-Israel advocates, were a significant part of Trump’s foreign policy platform during his presidency.

In his address to Jewish donors, Trump reiterated his criticism of the Biden administration’s handling of the Israel-Hamas conflict.

He specifically targeted Harris, accusing her of failing to protect Israel and its people amid the ongoing war. “Kamala Harris has done absolutely nothing. \

She has not lifted a single finger to protect you or to protect your children,” Trump claimed.

He also repeated a talking point that Jewish voters who continue to support Democrats “should have their head examined,” a comment he has made in the past to underscore his view that his administration has been more favorable to Israel than any Democratic-led government.

Trump’s speech also touched on growing antisemitism in the US, particularly in light of recent protests on college campuses and elsewhere.

He positioned himself as a staunch ally of Jewish Americans, framing his potential return to the White House as essential for protecting their interests both at home and abroad.

Harris faces criticism from the left

While Trump worked to consolidate his support among Jewish voters, Harris also found herself facing criticism — though from a different direction.

The vice president is under increasing pressure from progressive factions of the Democratic Party, particularly regarding the Biden administration’s approach to the Israel-Hamas war.

The protest movement “Uncommitted,” which opposes US weapons transfers to Israel and has called for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, announced that it would not endorse Harris for president.

The group, which gained traction during the Democratic primaries, represents a growing rift within the party over Middle East policy.

Its leaders warned that some Democratic voters, particularly in states like Michigan, could be disillusioned with Harris’ stance and may choose to sit out the general election in November.

Despite this, Harris remained focused on advocating for a balanced approach to the conflict.

Her campaign issued a statement reaffirming her commitment to bringing an end to the violence, ensuring Israel’s security, and upholding Palestinian rights to dignity and self-determination.

High stakes in North Carolina

With North Carolina a pivotal battleground in the 2024 election, both Trump and Harris are likely to spend significant time and resources campaigning in the state.

The scandal surrounding Robinson may complicate Trump’s path to victory, especially as public opinion continues to shift in the state.

Recent polls show a tight race between Trump and Harris in North Carolina, while Robinson lags far behind Stein in the governor’s race.

The outcome of these contests could have far-reaching consequences for both parties, making North Carolina one of the most closely watched states in the election.

For Trump, maintaining his strong support among Jewish Americans and addressing the controversy surrounding Robinson will be critical as he navigates a challenging political landscape heading into November.