Friday, March 26, 2010
[Crossposted from JStreetJive.]
Jeremy Ben Ami thought that Doug Pike, Democratic congressional contender to unseat Jim Gerlach (R - District 6 in Philadelphia), would fall into line with his other "Pro Israel" cash recipients like Keith Ellison, (MN) , Donna Edwards (MD) and Maurice Hinchey (NY) - all three of whom possess some of the worst voting records on support for Israel. Surprise! Mr. Pike, partly as a result of the current public whipping of Israel by Ben Ami's master, President Obama, released the following statement as he rejected J Street PAC funds and its endorsement:
"Belatedly, I got a clearer sense of the important points where J Street looks at things differently than I look at things," Pike said in an interview. "Also, people simply assumed when they heard that I was endorsed by J street that I agreed with them on everything. The endorsement was an impediment to my being able to explain my convictions about Israel's security."
Oddly, over at J Street's "News" tab on their website, Mr. Pike is not mentioned today. Ben Enemy, however - classy as ever - had this to say about a man who stood up to the blatant anti-Israel messages coming out of The White House:
"We wish Doug Pike well, but are pleased to see him return the funds provided to his campaign, as it is our purpose only to support politicians with the courage of their convictions."
"We wish Doug Pike well..." Oh yeah, and your check is in the mail... I would say that in refusing $6,000 of J Street cash, Doug Pike is eminently a man of conviction.
Martin Solomon adds: More info in the linked article: In Turnabout, Politician Says 'No' to J Street, and Jonathan Tobin at Commentary: J Street Loses a Congressional Recruit
Did J Street really give Ellison money?