legrini). The ADL is concerned partly because of the possibility that Liebermans comments will rouse anti-Semitism in the American public. The Pew Research Poll found that of those bothered by the merging of religion and politics, 49 percent supported Lieberman and 30 percent did not. The statistics were virtually the same among those who reported they were not concerned with politicians discussing religion. These results show that, so far, there doesnt appear to be any hostility against Lieberman. Examining the bigger picture, the poll found that about three quarters of the American public have a positive view of Jews (Lester). This means that while the public isnt annoyed because hes Jewish and referring to his faith; but perhaps his references to his faith may be negatively pinned to his being Jewish-changing our perception of Jews. The Anti-Defamation League is also concerned with the (not-so- popular) principle of separation of church and state. "We do not think that religion belongs in the political campaign and political arena," Foxman declared to The New York Times. "Theres nothing wrong with somebody professing their faith and going to church or synagogue, but this is almost hawking it" (Pellegrini).In response to Foxmans warning, Liebermans spokesperson Kiki McLean reports that he "respectfully disagrees." She goes on to say, "Joe Lieberman is someone who has always respected the role faith plays in the lives of millions of Americans. He is someone who always expresses his support of tolerance and separation of church and state." The senators wife told the ADLs parent organization, BNai Brith International, Winkler 3that the Democratic ticket is, like they are, pledged to "the betterment of the world" ("Anti-Defamation League Criticizes"). So we, as Americans, dont want politicians to force their religion on us. How, then, do we use our own faith to choose how to vote? In an article by Paul Simon, he argu...
