The Strip isn’t just for shows and slot machines; on Friday night, the spotlight was on faith, freedom, and the fight against hate.
At The Venetian in Las Vegas, the Republican Jewish Coalition (RJC) hosted a packed Shabbat dinner, and it wasn’t your average political meet-up.
Florida Sen. Rick Scott took the stage with a message that hit hard: without President Donald Trump’s re-election, Israel would be in greater danger – and Jewish students across America wouldn’t feel safe on campus.
Scott praised the Trump administration’s role in negotiating a ceasefire that brought home the remaining Israeli hostages held in Gaza.
“Thank God they’re free. Thank God they’re home,” he said, lifting his voice over the applause. “And thank you to the RJC for keeping up the pressure.”
Faith and Freedom on Display
The evening began like a traditional Shabbat; with prayer, song, and the national anthem.
But the energy in the room was anything but routine. Every mention of Trump drew cheers. People stood, clapped, and smiled.
Former Sen. Norm Coleman, now the RJC’s national chair, opened the event by reminding everyone what binds America and Israel together.
The RJC, founded more than 40 years ago, calls itself the “bridge between the Jewish community and Republican decision-makers.”
That bridge looked strong Friday night, with lawmakers like Sen. Ted Cruz, Sen. Lindsey Graham, and House Speaker Mike Johnson all scheduled to speak during the weekend’s four-day leadership summit.
“Antisemitism Is Repulsive”
Rep. David Kustoff of Tennessee added a personal note.
“Last year,” he said, “there was just one Jewish Republican in the House. This year, there are four – and with your help, maybe next time, there’ll be ten.”
Kustoff didn’t shy away from calling out hate, no matter where it comes from.
“In our party, we don’t give platforms to people who support Stalin or Hitler,” he said. “Nazis are evil and antisemitism is repulsive.”
Why It Matters Here in Nevada
Las Vegas is one of the most diverse cities in the country.
Our schools, our campuses, and our neighborhoods are filled with people from every background and belief.
Jewish students in several states have reported feeling targeted on college campuses. Nevada isn’t immune.
Local parents and educators have been pushing for more accountability, less political posturing, and stronger protection for all students.
It’s about making sure people can pray, learn, and live without fear.
A Moment Bigger Than Politics
Critics may argue that Republican talk about antisemitism simplifies complex global issues. Some say the focus should be on both sides of the conflict.
But even many who disagree on policy still agree on one point: hatred has no excuse.
Friday night’s dinner ended not with a fiery debate, but with song and prayer.
Say what you will about party lines. This night wasn’t about division. It was about decency.
And in a world that feels angrier by the day, that’s something worth standing up for.
The opinions expressed by contributors are their own and do not necessarily represent the views of Nevada News & Views. Digital technology was used in the research, writing, and production of this article. Please verify information and consult additional sources as needed.
