I am heartbroken and outraged by the horrific arson attack on Congregation Beth Israel in Jackson, Mississippi.

The burning of this historic synagogue is not just an attack on a building, it’s an attack on Jewish life and safety in America. That this congregation has endured violence before, including a KKK bombing in 1967, makes this latest incident even more disturbing.

At a time when antisemitism is surging to record levels across our country, this act underscores a terrifying reality: Jewish communities continue to be targeted simply for who they are. It is part of a growing pattern of hate that must be confronted with urgency and resolve.

I stand in solidarity with the Beth Israel congregation and the Jewish community in Jackson. I am grateful for the swift response of first responders and law enforcement, and strongly support a full federal hate crime investigation. 

We must speak out and reaffirm that hate will not win.