On Feb. 12, speaking before some 70 representatives of the Jewish community from Philadelphia and across Pennsylvania at the invitation of the Orthodox Union Advocacy Center, Sen. Pat Toomey (R-Pa.) reiterated his support for Israel and concern for its welfare from potential Iranian attack. He also vowed to consider finding a way to use public tax money to relieve a portion of the financial burden on parents sending their children to private religious institutions.

Toomey attended a by-invitation-only breakfast and community gathering at the Merion Station home of Amir and Stacy Goldman sponsored by the OU. He was joined by a cross-section of the local Jewish community, including rabbis, educators and local leaders, as well as representatives from Scranton and Harrisburg.

For Toomey, who spoke for some 15 minutes and also took a few questions, it was an opportunity to connect in a non-political forum. “I wanted a chance to reach out to the Orthodox community so people would be able to share with me their concerns,” said Toomey afterwards. “Talk a little about the security issues that are close to the front burner or on the front burner — just a great opportunity to have a dialogue.”

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