In a rare show of unity, 17 U.S. governors issued a joint letter on Monday condemning the recent terror attacks by Hamas on Israel and expressing broad support for the Middle Eastern nation. The governors, representing over 144 million Americans, also pledged to work with the U.S. Department of State to ensure the safe return of Americans.
The letter, addressed to Speaker McHenry, Leader Schumer, Leader Jeffries, and Leader McConnell, unequivocally condemns the despicable acts of war and terror perpetrated by Hamas on Saturday, October 7, 2023, which have already claimed the lives of hundreds of innocent people in Israel. The governors also expressed concern about the confirmed deaths of several Americans as a result of this violence.
They commended President Biden for his swift response in providing increased military assistance to Israel and urged immediate and continued U.S. aid to Israel in the weeks and months to come. They also called for the swift confirmation of nominees to key diplomatic roles in the region, including ambassador roles in Israel, Egypt, Lebanon, Oman, and Kuwait, and consideration of all pending military nominations and promotions.
The governors noted that they have each taken action in their respective states to increase security in Jewish communities and at Jewish houses of worship. They called on Congress to ensure funding for states and local governments to support activities and programs to combat antisemitism at home.
The signatories of the letter include Governor Kathy Hochul of New York, Governor Gavin Newsom of California, Governor Jared Polis of Colorado, Governor Ned Lamont of Connecticut, Governor John Carney of Delaware, Governor JB Pritzker of Illinois, Governor Laura Kelly of Kansas, Governor Wes Moore of Maryland, Governor Maura Healey of Massachusetts, Governor Tim Walz of Minnesota, Governor Phil Murphy of New Jersey, Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham of New Mexico, Governor Roy Cooper of North Carolina, Governor Josh Shapiro of Pennsylvania, Governor Dan McKee of Rhode Island, Governor Spencer Cox of Utah, and Governor Phil Scott of Vermont.
This joint letter is a significant demonstration of bipartisan support for Israel and a strong condemnation of the recent terror attacks by Hamas. It also underscores the commitment of these governors to ensuring the safety and security of Jewish communities within their respective states.
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