Fighting for the Votes

Though Pennsylvanians are still recovering from the six-week siege of campaigning that the Democratic primary brought, the battle for votes, and in particular, Jewish votes, in November is already under way. A recent Gallup poll shows that probable Republican nominee Sen. John McCain would gain the support of 32 percent of Jews in a matchup against likely Democratic nominee Sen. Barack Obama, a gain over previous GOP showings.

That would still mean a large majority for the Democrats, but it will encourage the Republicans to fight harder for Jewish votes. Thus, it is a given that the coming months will find both parties fighting tooth and nail, with tempers on both sides bound to fray.

The Jewish Exponent is neutral between the parties and the candidates. Nevertheless, we believe that the debate about ideas and candidates is good for the country. As the campaign heats up, we invite the partisans to have at it. But even as the rhetorical combat is launched, we believe some lines of conduct should not be crossed.

All issues, including a candidate's level of support for Israel, are fair game. But we hope that the entire community -- Democrats, Republicans and Independents alike -- will remember that even in an election year, those elements that unite Americans and Jews are far greater than those that divide us.