Rabbi Questions Election Campaign Tactics, Warns of Public Damage
Translated & summarized from Arutz Sheva by baba
Rabbi Lior Engelman criticized election campaign tactics that use fear to manipulate voters and questioned the morality of Israelis abroad voting in national elections. He argued that these campaigns inflict psychological and social damage on the public, asking who will compensate for these harms. The rabbi encouraged voting based on personal conviction and faith in the outcome, regardless of the result.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Rabbi Lior Engelman criticized election campaigns for using fear and demonizing opponents.
- He questioned the morality of Israelis living abroad voting in national elections.
- Rabbi Engelman warned of significant psychological and social damage to the public.
- He urged voters to participate based on conviction, not fear-mongering.
- The rabbi concluded by emphasizing faith and acceptance of election results.
On election day, Rabbi Lior Engelman criticized the prevailing election campaign tactics, particularly the use of fear-mongering by strategists and spokespeople to frighten the public about the opposing political camp's potential victory. Speaking during his "Ten at Ten" class in Kfar Saba, Rabbi Engelman also raised a moral question regarding Israelis living abroad who travel to vote, questioning the fairness of their participation in Israel's political decisions when they do not bear the daily burdens of life in the country, such as military service, reserve duty, and raising children.
Despite his reservations, Rabbi Engelman acknowledged the dedication of these overseas voters as a lesson in the importance of democratic participation. He contrasted their significant efforts with the minimal effort required of local voters. The rabbi's main criticism, however, was directed at the public relations professionals and parties employing fear-based messaging. He stated that while selling hope is an option, fear-based negativity and demonization of opponents are often perceived as more effective in driving voters.
Rabbi Engelman expressed disbelief in the messages disseminated by all political sides, asserting that each camp presents apocalyptic scenarios if the other wins. He warned of the severe psychological and social repercussions of these campaigns on the entire nation, questioning who will compensate the public for the damage caused by such tactics, especially after the campaign professionals have profited. He clarified that his remarks were not a call for political apathy but rather an encouragement to vote with one's own convictions, rejecting the notion that an opposing party's victory signifies the end of the country.
He concluded by emphasizing faith in divine providence and the acceptance of election results, regardless of personal preference. Rabbi Engelman advised trusting that whatever outcome occurs is for the best, while still maintaining personal responsibility to act according to one's beliefs.
