What About Bob? (Or, One Indiana Republican’s Emerging Jewish Problem)
The GOP has finally settled on a candidate to run for mayor of Indianapolis, but businessman Bob Parker is already under fire for comments he made several weeks ago about the “wealthy Jewish faction inside the Democratic party” and support for war with Iran.
According to a report by Matt Tully of the Indianapolis Star, Parker made the questionable remarks when Tully asked him about his interest in the mayor’s race several weeks ago.
Here’s what Parker said, according to Tully:
I personally see Israel going into Iran and Syria in the next couple of months,” he said. “I’m sure you realize – well, most people don’t – millionaire Democrats outnumber millionaire Republicans about four to one. It’s mainly because of the wealthy Jewish faction inside the Democratic Party. Most Jewish people are Democrats and they bring that wealth. My opinion is, if Israel would go into Iran, Democrats will follow that cause. I really do believe that.”
The National Jewish Democratic Coalition is calling for Parker to be removed from the ticket.
Hello, fellow Forward reader! I’m Joel Brown, a Forward reader and supporter for more than 15 years, and currently the chair of the board of directors.
I’m an avid Forward reader because it ticks so many of my essential boxes: excellent journalism, Jewish focus and diverse viewpoints. In today’s political climate, what I most appreciate is the Forward’s independence — made possible by the generosity of its membership.
The Forward is committed to bringing you unbiased, nuanced Jewish news. From my position as board chair, I see an exciting future as we expand our position as the definitive independent voice of contemporary American Judaism.
— Joel Brown, Forward board chair
