Mussie and I were in DC this week, where we were warmly welcomed by Secretary Noem at DHS, Senator Rounds, Congressman Johnson, and Senate Majority Leader Thune’s office. We discussed matters relating to the Jewish community in South Dakota and across the country, as well as the importance of the U.S.–Israel alliance.
The architecture of our institutions is magnificent, and recognizing the power held in those offices inspires awe and reverence. They say when you're in Washington, you never know who you'll bump into…
While waiting in the security line at the Hart Senate Office Building, I noticed standing right in front of me none other than Mahmoud Khalil. I figured that would be the end of it, but as we both walked toward the elevators, it became clear we were heading in the same direction and ended up in the same elevator.
There I was, face to face with a man who has become the symbol of the protests and hate at Columbia University, someone whose words and actions caused fear among Jewish students, and their parents. Just a day earlier on CNN, he couldn’t bring himself to say a negative word about Hamas or Palestinian terrorism.
A lot ran through my mind at that moment. But as I stood there in the elevator looking at him, I saw him look down, clearly uncomfortable standing next to someone he recognized as a religious Jew. He seemed unsure of himself, even ashamed. 
I saw him not as the symbol the media portrays of resistance, not as a figure of courage or strength, but as a very small man who, most likely, had come to plead his case before Congress and speak his mind, as is his right.
Reflecting later, I realized how much the tables have turned from previous generations, how fortunate we are to live in this country. My great-grandparents, who lived in Russia and Europe, would probably have been terrified to step foot near the halls of their governments, and to pass a known personality who spewed hateful rhetoric would have likely struck fear in their hearts. But here in America, we feel safe and secure. Here, it is those who promote hate and support our enemies that find themselves uncertain walking these halls. I was very comfortable walking in Congress with my head held high. That stark difference was not lost on me.
I grew up reading the stories of Rabbi Yosef Yitzchak Schneersohn, the sixth Lubavitcher Rebbe, and how he defiantly visited government offices in Moscow, risking his life to to advocate for the needs of Soviet Jewry. The danger for the Jews then was very real. But here, thank G-d, we are blessed. We are treated with honor and dignity. We can walk in our government offices confidently. We feel safe, like we should.
The overwhelming majority of Americans support and appreciate the Jewish people, and we pray that continues. That support is strongly reflected in Congress in their support here at home and for our brothers and sisters in the Holy Land of Israel. And I was able to hear it in my conversations, and feel it in the air.
It reminded me of the words of the prophet Jeremiah: "Seek the peace of the city where you dwell… for in its peace, you will find peace." And of G-d’s eternal promise to Abraham: "I will bless those who bless you." May G-d bless America.

This week I visited Israel together with Governor Larry Rhoden. In addition to trade and business meetings hosted by the U.S. Embassy in Jerusalem, the delegation met with many of Israel’s leaders, visited Yad Vashem, spent time with IDF soldiers recovering at Hadassah Hospital, and prayed at the Western Wall. It was a meaningful trip of solidarity that came at a critical time. We are grateful that South Dakota stands strong in its unwavering support of Israel and the Jewish community.
Last night, the world watched as Israel took a brave and necessary step, launching a preemptive strike against Iran’s nuclear facilities and top military leadership. The Torah places the highest value on preserving human life. Sometimes, the most effective way to do that is to strike first, not wait until the threat has already targeted you. As the Talmud teaches, "If someone rises to kill you, rise first to kill them."
It may not always be the most popular move in diplomatic or political circles. But if the goal is to actually save lives, and not just earn compliments, this is clearly the right thing to do. A powerful preemptive strike saves lives. Not only of your own people, but even of your enemy.
So far, Israel’s operation has been deemed successful. In fact, it has been nothing short of miraculous and we should be thankful to G-d for showing us such great miracles. While some on the world stage may criticize it now, history shows that eventually they too will appreciate it and be grateful that Israel had the courage to act.
Naturally, there is concern about what may come next. In moments like these, we must stand first in our faith in G-d. As the Psalmist writes, "The Guardian of Israel neither slumbers nor sleeps." We recall the Biblical promise "I will grant peace upon the land… G-d watches over it from the beginning of the year to the end of the year." We are reminded that true strength does not come from human might, but from G-d above. With that in mind, we can face the future with calm and confidence.
Now is an important time for each of us to increase in Torah study, prayer, and acts of charity, especially in honor of the brave soldiers defending Israel, and its people. These spiritual acts give them strength, uplift us and ease our anxiety, and will enable us to enter Shabbat with strength and joy in our hearts.
Let us continue to pray for Israel’s success and for the safety and security of its people and Jews everywhere.

On April 12 this year, we will be celebrating the Rebbe's 120 birthday. Why posthumously celebrate a birthday? Some may ask.
A Jew always answers a question with a question. So though I'm only imagining a question you asked me, I pose a question back at you.
What does it mean to be living? To be alive?
This past Tuesday, I attended a conference in Washington, DC that focused on the Rebbe's work and impact on world Jewry, and the world entire. I was honored to be welcomed by our Senator John Thune, and our congressman Dusty Johnson.
At the conference we also heard from elected officials from every end of the spectrum. From Senators Chuck Schumer, to Ted Cruz, from Cory Booker to Lisa Murkowski, and even nearby Amy Klobuchar too.
They spoke about how the Rebbe's teachings influence them and how it inspires and empowers human beings of all walks of life to dedicate their lives to serve others, to make our world a place of goodness and kindness, of love and unity, a place where G-d feels welcome and comfortable. They noted how through his transformative approach and dedication to rebuilding Judaism and inspiring all people, today, so many years after his his passing, Chabad and the Rebbe's work continues expand and positively impact Jewish life and American life, today!
This is living. This is alive. And this is why the Rebbe's birthday is still celebrated today.
On this 120th birthday, I hope to continue the mission the Rebbe entrusted, not to me, but to all of us, to spread our individual surroundings with more light. More goodness. More spirituality. More kindness. That we become better people, better families, better communities and thereby a better world.