Chabad holding 250 menorah lightings in all 50 states to commemorate Chanukah, America’s 250th birthday

If not then, when? Hillel says Emory rabbi hid conflicts

This Daily Kickoff explores tight congressional races, new PAC initiatives against antisemitism, and recent controversies surrounding political figures, activists, and international security developments.

Jewish New York Dems launch PAC to counter antisemitism and anti-Zionism

Three Jewish politicos from New York’s Capital Region — all women, and all Democrats — have launched a new state-level committee dedicated to supporting candidates with liberal social views who also push back on anti-Jewish and anti-Israel forces. Aleinu-NY PAC, named for the Jewish prayer that translates to “our duty,” registered with the New York... <a href="">Read More</a>

Illinois Democrats spend big for anti-Israel candidate running for state Senate

Illinois Democrats are pumping significant cash into a state Senate race in the Chicago suburbs, hoping that an anti-Israel state representative can take down a Republican appointed to the seat. Since Labor Day, Democratic leadership has put more than $2 million —&nbsp;a substantial investment for a state-level race — behind state Rep. Nabeela Syed, boosted... <a href="">Read More</a>

Rep. Doris Matsui continues to highlight Hasan Piker links to far-left opponent Mai Vang

As the general election race approaches between Rep. Doris Matsui (D-CA) and her far-left opponent, Sacramento City Councilmember Mai Vang, Matsui is continuing to lean into attacks linking Vang to far-left streamer Hasan Piker, running ads highlighting that Vang campaigned with Piker. A new ad by Matsui’s campaign highlights Piker’s past comments that America deserved... <a href="">Read More</a>

Jewish groups call for apology after educators asked to condemn Israel to attend Italy trip

Major Jewish organizations called on an Italian early childhood education center to issue a public apology for what they described as antisemitism directed at Jewish educators whose planned professional development trip to the city of Reggio Emilia was canceled after the center asked them to certify that they condemn Israel’s actions in Gaza. “There is... <a href="">Read More</a>