What does one say at a moment like this?
Mazel Tov?
The Mirror has learned that the Union for Reform Judaism will host a presidential candidates forum at its big conference in Orlando this November with NBC’s “Meet the Press” host Chuck Todd moderating.
Todd is Jewish. He’s also a Florida boy — born in Miami. “This will almost certainly be the only one of its kind in the Jewish community and one of very few in any faith community,” remarked a spokesperson for the event. “5000 Jews, Chuck, Florida, November.”
As for why Todd was picked, I’m told, “He’s the political director of NBC News and host of its Meet the Press. He’s arguably the top political interviewer in the country right now. We’re thrilled to have him.”
According to a release, Todd will interview each candidate one-on-one and cover “a wide range of topics,” including domestic and foreign policy. Candidates will also respond to questions from URJ leadership and Biennial delegates.
The forum will take place at the Orlando World Center Marriott.
There’s one catch. Will the candidates attend?
“The Reform Movement has a deep history in political engagement and we are eager to hear from the leading presidential candidates from both parties,” said URJ President Rabbi Rick Jacobs. “Invitations will be extended shortly and we look forward to the candidates’ positive responses.”
A tip for journalists on the campaign trail… For press credentials, please email either Steve Rabinowitz, Rabinowitz Communications, steve@rabinowitz.com or Lauren Theodore, Union for Reform Judaism, ltheodore@urj.org.