To the Editor: Recently, New Paltz Deputy Mayor Alexandria Wojcik sent out virulent social media posts encouraging “violent uprisings against Jews and Jewish institutions in Israel and elsewhere.” The posts, according to New Paltz Rabbi Adam Cerino-Jones, have been taken down or replaced, but his concerns about the blatant anti-Semitism displayed by Ms. Wojcik remain. A statement issued by the Jewish Congregation of New Paltz said that Ms. Wojcik shared posts on social media using the phrase “geopolitical interests of Zionism,” which, according to the Congregation, alludes to baseless conspiracy theories rooted in centuries-old anti-Semitic tropes of Jewish world domination. The Rabbi said, “These kinds of ideas have no foundation in reality and are used to scapegoat and discriminate against Jewish people.”

The Ulster County Jewish Federation wishes to condemn these disgusting posts by a local political leader in the strongest possible terms, and we demand the immediate resignation of the Deputy Mayor at this time. There is no excuse for anyone, let alone an elected official, to lend voice to these most outrageous attacks on Jews. This is 2024, not 1933, unless Ms. Wojcik missed that.

The Ulster County Jewish Federation stands with Israel during this time of crisis, as precipitated by the Hamas terror attacks of Oct. 7. We support the Jewish people of Ulster County and everywhere in the face of threats and attacks. We will not tolerate anyone who advocates violence against our people, including Alexandra Wojcik. The long-planned, vicious attack against Israel shattered the cease-fire in place, resulting in countless deaths and widespread destruction in Gaza, which is ruthlessly ruled by Hamas. Those who support Hamas, the ones who have vowed to kill all Jews everywhere and end the existence of Israel, should not be allowed to hold public office. Alexandra Wojcik should resign immediately in shame and disgrace.

Rondavid Gold

President, Jewish Federation of Ulster County