In response to remarks by President Trump during two press briefings this week, Rabbi Jack Moline, president of Interfaith Alliance, released the following statement:

“President Trump’s repeated avoidance of addressing the recent and substantial uptick in anti-Semitism in America can no longer be ignored. Throughout his campaign, President Trump refused to acknowledge any role in fanning the flames of anti-Semitism. And now, two days in a row, when asked by reporters to address the issue, he has dodged it.

“Yesterday with Prime Minister Netanyahu, he used a question about anti-Semitism as an opportunity to highlight his electoral victory and his Jewish family members. Today he chose to be offended by the question rather than address the facts behind it. 

“President Trump, you are President of the United States. It’s not enough to just not be an anti-Semite, we expect you to do something about it. Get past being offended and take action to protect the Jewish community. And while you are at it, the Muslim community and all other minority faiths in this great nation.”

Interfaith Alliance celebrates religious freedom by championing individual rights, promoting policies that protect both religion and democracy, and uniting diverse voices to challenge extremism. Founded in 1994, Interfaith Alliance brings together members from 75 faith traditions as well as those without a faith tradition to protect faith and freedom. For more information visit interfaithalliance.org.