JAC Statement on the 2016 Election

November 9, 2016

Today we are all disappointed and saddened by the outcome of yesterday's election. This was a long and hard-fought campaign about the issues we care about and the direction of our country. Despite the results, our democracy worked as it should. Now we must come together and continue our efforts to improve our country.

Thank you to everyone who was engaged in the election with your financial support and grassroots efforts. I am proud of what we tried to accomplish. Our JAC members worked to help get the vote out by knocking on doors and phoning voters. Many people went to get out the vote in battleground states, such as Pennsylvania, Florida, Wisconsin and Nevada. We picked up several new House seats in New Hampshire, Nevada, Florida and Illinois; new Senate seats in Illinois and New Hampshire; and retained the open Senate seat in Nevada.

While voting is one of our most important responsibilities as citizens, it is vital to stay involved and informed. As Hillary Clinton said, "Our constitutional democracy demands our participation, not just every four years, but all the time."

Our work has become more challenging. We need to fight harder for the U.S.-Israel relationship, reproductive rights and religious freedom - and we must start now.

As Hillary reminded us today, we must "never stop believing that fighting for what's right is worth it."

I thought you'd be interested in watching President Obama's and Hillary's remarks today.

Again, thank you for your continued support.

Marcia Balonick
Executive Director