Ohio Jewish Caucus Condemns Recent Comments by President Trump Targeting Somali Communities

COLUMBUS — The Ohio Jewish Caucus today released the following statement denouncing President Trump’s recent remarks targeting the Somali community:

“President Trump's comments about Somali immigrants are xenophobic, dangerous, and wholly unacceptable from any public official, let alone the President of the United States. Calling members of the Somali community ‘garbage’ and suggesting they do not belong in this country is an appalling abandonment of the dignity and respect every American deserves. We expect our elected leaders to uphold a higher standard of conduct. Instead, this administration continues to use inflammatory rhetoric that puts American citizens at risk and fuels the threat of political violence,” said the Ohio Jewish Caucus. “As Jews, we know all too well the consequences when a community is singled out, scapegoated, or dehumanized. We cannot and will not tolerate hate directed at any group, and we stand firmly with our Somali neighbors who contribute every day to the strength, vibrancy, and diversity of our state.”

The Ohio Jewish Caucus is proudly represented by Reps. Beryl Brown Piccolantonio (D-Gahanna), Dani Isaacsohn (D-Cincinnati), Christine Cockley (D-Columbus), Eric Synenberg (D-Beachwood), Karen Brownlee (D-Symmes Township) and Senator Casey Weinstein (D-Hudson).