Michigan Jewish leaders petition over convention safety

Michigan rabbis and Jewish figures delivered a petition to United States — Michigan Democratic Party chair Curtis Hertel urging him to ensure the safety of Jewish delegates at the upcoming state Democratic convention on August 29. The petition, signed by about 200 people, came after Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel, who is Jewish, announced she would not attend the convention out of fear of harassment. The petition calls for clear public statements that anyone harassing Jews at the convention will be arrested and prosecuted. The move reflects growing anxieties about antisemitism within the state's Democratic coalition, particularly following the rise of Abdul El-Sayed, the party's U.S. Senate nominee, whose rhetoric on Israel and Jewish safety has drawn criticism. Jewish Democratic leaders, including Jewish Democratic Council of America of the Jewish Democratic Council of America and the United States — Michigan Jewish Democratic Caucus, have called on El-Sayed to take clear action against antisemitism. The previous Democratic convention in April was marred by incidents including booing of pro-Israel candidate Haley Stevens and alleged antisemitic remarks. The petition was organized by Rafael Medoff of the David Wyman and signed by rabbis from various denominations, as well as national Jewish figures.