Jewish Federation speaks out against harmful antisemitic stereotypes in California voter guide
Los Angeles Jewish Federation Condemns Antisemitic Content in Voter Guide
LOS ANGELES — The Jewish Federation of Los Angeles (JFEDLA) has issued a strong condemnation of the California Secretary of State’s office for including antisemitic language in the state’s official voter information guide. The controversy arose from a statement submitted by gubernatorial candidate Don J. Grundmann, which contained fabricated claims regarding Jewish influence and controversial allegations about Israel’s involvement in the 9/11 attacks. The text also linked to the Goyim Defense League, recognized as a hate group.
In its statement, JFEDLA described the publication of this material at taxpayer expense as "indefensible and reprehensible." The organization, along with the California Legislative Jewish Caucus, led by Assemblymember Jesse Gabriel, criticized the Secretary of State for not enforcing existing standards that dictate candidate statements should focus solely on personal qualifications and background.
Initially, state officials cited legal constraints as the reason for the inclusion of Grundmann’s remarks. However, there have been indications that the Secretary of State’s office is collaborating with the legislature to amend the Elections Code to prevent similar incidents in the future.
A spokesperson for Secretary Dr. Shirley N. Weber announced that efforts are underway to propose legislative revisions aimed at addressing prohibited content while still protecting the rights of candidates.
Questions remain regarding the initial internal review process that allowed Grundmann’s statement to be included in the voter guide. The specific legislative language for proposed safeguards has not yet been disclosed.
In response to the situation, JFEDLA emphasized, "The First Amendment does not require the government itself to print and distribute [hate speech]. California’s own standards make it clear that candidate statements are meant to describe qualifications, not to serve as vehicles for hate." The California Legislative Jewish Caucus echoed this, expressing concern over the apparent inattention to the matter by those in leadership roles who advocate for tolerance and coexistence in the community.
