Racism didn't work? Scare the Jews!

Well that title might be a little misleading.  It's probably pretty fair to say that Jews who are going to be afraid of a repeat Holocaust and who are worried of Barack's associations with (meaning - that fact that he has spoken with - not that he has agreed with them or anything) suspected terrorists or Palestinian sympathizers, are probably just as likely to be worried about black people...Hey, I'm Jewish, I've got Jewish grandparents, I've heard them say things...I'm just saying it's not that far of a stretch.

But what I do find offensive is the Republican party's willingness to play yet another race-like card in the election.  Specifically, there have been claims of Obama's anti-Israel stance, friendships with PLO operatives, the still prevalent yet thoroughly debunked rumor that he is Muslim, and of course the claim that agreeing to meet with one of the leaders of countries that "do not like us very much" as McCain and Palin are wont to say, automatically validates all of their beliefs and sends a signal that Obama means "Death to Israel".

Give me a break.

First, this country and BOTH parties are so pro-Israel I doubt that any president would get very far with any anti-Israel measures or beliefs.  Just not going to happen.

Secondly, most of these claims are just false.  For one, Obama is not a Muslim (and even if he was, it doesn't automatically mean he supports suicide bombings or the destruction of Israel, many peaceful Muslims do in fact exist), and the fear-mongering of Rashid Khalidi is largely exaggerated.  Khalidi, by most acocunts, is a respected scholar who presents fair arguments without being incendiary, as right wingers like to push.  He may not hold the most popular set of beliefs for hardcore Pro-Israel activists, but painting him in the light he has been portrayed by the right-wing is deceitful.  Summed up here:

Dr. Khalidi is a respected scholar, author and educator. Contrary to the allegations contained in these attacks, Dr. Khalidi is a longtime public supporter of Israeli-Palestinian peace and the two-state solution, and an opponent of violence and terror. His analysis has helped the world better understand the Palestinian historical and political narrative - understanding that is a requirement for the achievement of Israeli-Arab peace - and has underscored both the challenges and the opportunities that exist for advancing a peaceful resolution of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

Jews are fearful people, generally speaking, with very good reason to be.   We've been persecuted throughout our existence, yet have prevailed.  But exploiting these concerns about another Holocaust, radical Palestinian associations, etc, is just wrong.  Obama has been very vocal about his support for Israel and many prominent Jewish scholars support him and give him their endorsements.  Here's a good example:

Obama can inspire much-needed support for Israel among this next generation of American Jews. He reflects their idealism and speaks in the language of hope they understand. His approach to international affairs shows a commitment to restoring America's reputation and to working with our allies to combat war, poverty, disease, and environmental destruction. He has articulated a vision for American society that does not ask us to ignore our differences--religious, racial, or economic--but to set aside divisive rhetoric and acknowledge that we all have a stake in building a more ethical society. Under his leadership a renewed America can help to foster a renewed Israel. Barack Obama is an inspiring American, willing and able to lead this nation and the world to new heights in very perilous times. I will vote for him with enthusiasm. - Edgar M Bronfman, former president of World Jewish Congress

Jews need not be afraid of Obama, most are not, and he's not a danger to the state of Israel.  Get over it, right-wing.  The polls show Jews overwhelmingly support Obama anyway.