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House passes resolution reaffirming support for Israel and condemning antisemitism after extended debate
Summary
House Joint Resolution 9, which reaffirms support for Israel’s right to exist and condemns antisemitism and terrorism, passed second reading after floor debate that included personal testimony and differing views about the phrasing of national rights.
House Joint Resolution 9, sponsored by Representative Greg, passed second reading after extended floor debate. The resolution affirms Montana’s support for Israel’s right to exist, condemns antisemitism in all forms, and condemns terrorist attacks on the people of Israel. Representative Greg framed the resolution as a moral reaffirmation, saying, “There is no justification for terrorism. None.”
Several members spoke in support. Representative Staffman, identified in the transcript as a congregational rabbi and now rabbi emeritus, recounted repeated antisemitic incidents in Montana and supported the resolution while urging vigilance beyond symbolic words. He said hate directed at Jews sometimes follows political disagreement with Israeli policy and said the resolution “doesn’t seek to solve the problems in The Middle East or politicize antisemitism.”
Some legislators pushed back on language about a nation’s “right to exist.” Representative Zephyr argued that “no nation has a right to exist” and emphasized care for all people, including Palestinians, while still acknowledging Jews’ and Israelis’ rights to safety. Representative Jay Fitzpatrick spoke from personal experience in Israel to urge support for the resolution.
The clerk recorded 89 ayes and 9 noes on second reading and House Joint Resolution 9 passed; an absentee vote against was recorded by Representative Souctiss. The debate mixed personal testimony, historical context and differing framings about what the resolution’s language should emphasize.
