Constructive gadfly
the president was Jewish
Published on December 22, 2005 By stevendedalus In Politics

What is the fate of the White House Christmas tree in the event there is a Jewish president? Is it the president who decides to continue the tradition because of his four to eight year residence there? Or is it the right of the landlord [us] not only to install a tree on the lawn, but also inside the great house? Many would argue that the White House is a provisional private residence of the first family, thus having the right to protect its privacy and personal beliefs. Others would counter that it is but another federally funded building, and the first family has no right to boycott a longstanding tradition.

What do you think?


Comments
on Dec 23, 2005
I think they would continue it out of tradition and respect for the Christians.  I knowmany Jewish familes that have Christmas trees.  However, if they wanted to not go along with the tradition, then as the tenants of the house, they would have that right.  Landlords may own the property, but that does not give them unlimited power over the tenants.
on Dec 23, 2005
Any Jew that would be too ignorant to carry on the tradition should not be President.
My humble, Jewish opinion.
on Dec 23, 2005
A big menorah on the White House lawn.
That's what you'd get!
- Joe Lieberman for President Committee
on Dec 23, 2005
I believe it would be wrong to eliminate the X-mas tree. I wouldn't mind if they chose to put a Menorah. It could symbolize a union of beliefs, we can get along even with different faiths.
on Dec 24, 2005
Very articulate answers! I think it would be "politically correct" to display symbols of both holidays.