As the Israel-Hamas war continues, and as reported threats against Jews and Muslims in the U.S. are up, concerns about security at home are high. In response, Governor Gretchen Whitmer (D-Michigan) is leading a group of Democratic governors in calling for more funding for security at places of worship across the nation.
Gov. Ron DeSantis (R) has already appropriated $45 million to safeguard Jewish institutions like schools, synagogues, and museums in Florida, and now, 10 states and the territory of Puerto Rico have sent a letter to both chambers of Congress calling for more Nonprofit Security Grant Program funding.
Pointing out that "not all Muslims are radicals, but all the radicals seem to be Islamist," Mat Staver, founder and chairman of Liberty Counsel, says increased security is especially necessary for Jewish synagogues and Christian churches right now.
"What we're looking at is a culture clash that has been in the making for some years," he submits. "It's not just relegated to Gaza, and it's not limited to the Hamas terrorist organization; it is an ideological war that's taking place, and it's grounded, unfortunately, in radical Islamists."
In addition to Whitmer, the letter has been signed by the Democratic governors from Wisconsin, North Carolina, New Mexico, New York, New Jersey, Minnesota, Colorado, Louisiana, and Maryland. They are asking for "swift consideration" of the federal funding increase "in light of ongoing concerns within our states and territories."
"We need to take precautions, and I think that's why these governors are doing what they're doing -- asking for more security, for more funding to make sure that there's no mass shootings at these places of worship, particularly synagogues and churches," Staver concludes.
