NJDC Calls on Indiana Republicans to Remove Indianapolis Mayoral Candidate From Ticket

Businessman Bob Parker made Anti-Jewish Remarks

WASHINGTON, D.C. -- Today, the National Jewish Democratic Council called on the Marion County (Indiana) Republican Party to remove candidate Bob Parker from their slate of candidates for Indianapolis Mayor. In addition, NJDC called upon the Indiana Republican Party and the Republican National Committee to condemn Mr. Parker for problematic comments he made about the American Jewish Community.

According to a report on the Indianapolis Star's website, Mr. Parker made the following comments about the American Jewish community:

"I personally see Israel going into Iran and Syria in the next couple of months," he said. "I'm sure you realize -- well, most people don't -- millionaire Democrats outnumber millionaire Republicans four to one. It's mainly because of the Jewish faction inside the Democratic Party. Most Jewish people are Democrats and they bring that wealth. My opinion is, if Israel would go into Iran, Democrats will follow that cause. I really do believe that."

According to the Chair of the Marion County Republican Party, Tom John, the party plans to endorse Parker and add him to their slate of candidates. From the Star's website:

Marion County Republican Party Chairman Tom John says Indianapolis businessman Bob Parker has decided to run for mayor -- ending the GOP's long search for a candidate. "The way things have shaken out, Bob Parker is going to be the Republican candidate for mayor later today, and will become the slated candidate sometime in the next few weeks," John said by phone.

"The comments by Mr. Parker are unbecoming of someone seeking to lead a major U.S. city," said NJDC Executive Director Ira Forman. "Traditionally, comments that Jews control the country or major institutions have been used to perpetuate hurtful stereotypes. Mr. Parker should know better. And the Indiana GOP needs to do a better job vetting their candidates."

Founded in 1990, the National Jewish Democratic Council is the national voice of Jewish Democrats. NJDC has been outspoken against Democrats and Republicans alike who have made anti-Jewish comments. In 2003, NJDC was the first major organization to denounce Democratic Congressman Jim Moran of Virginia following anti-Jewish comments suggesting that the Jewish community was responsible for the war in Iraq.