Rep. Chris Smith, Co-Chair of the House Bipartisan Task Force for Combating Antisemitism, condemned the recent antisemitic attack at Temple Israel in West Bloomfield, Michigan, according to a Mar. 12 statement.
The incident is significant as it highlights ongoing concerns about antisemitic violence and the safety of Jewish communities in the United States. Smith said that he and his wife were “absolutely appalled by this barbaric act of violence directly targeting American Jews and their fundamental right of freedom of religion.” He added, “Antisemitic violence has no place in the United States—or anywhere else on the planet—and we must remain vigilant in our condemnation of antisemitism, through both word and action.”
Smith expressed gratitude to Temple Israel’s security staff and West Bloomfield’s first responders for their quick actions during the attack. “We are deeply grateful to the Temple’s security staff and West Bloomfield’s first responders, who acted quickly and effectively to disarm the active shooter, saving countless lives. It is because of their well-prepared and timely response that no casualties—other than the shooter—occurred,” Smith said.
He also thanked FBI Director Kash Patel for promptly sending FBI personnel to assist local law enforcement at the scene. Smith urged authorities to conduct a thorough investigation into the attack and continue efforts to protect Jewish communities: “I urge the appropriate local and federal authorities to leave no stone unturned, thoroughly investigate this terrifying attack, and continue to work to ensure the safety of America’s Jewish communities in Michigan and beyond.”
Smith has served in Congress representing New Jersey’s 4th District since 1981 after replacing Frank Thompson according to official records. He was born in Rahway, New Jersey in 1953 and currently resides in Manchester Township as reported by NJ.com. Smith graduated from The College of New Jersey with a Bachelor of Science degree in 1975 according to The College of New Jersey.
The broader implications of this event underscore ongoing concerns about religious freedom and community safety across the country.
