How to Vote in the Upcoming Mayoral Elections
Question:
We know we are supposed to vote for whichever candidate the Torah would want us to vote for. The question is would Torah/halacha prefer us to vote for a mayoral candidate that would espouse more “Torahdik” values (relatively speaking), although practically speaking, a vote for him would not make him win, but only strengthen his opponent’s chances), or vote for the mayoral candidate that would have less Torahdik values, but who would at least have a chance of winning over another candidate whose win would undoubtedly put many Yidden in a position of “Sakanas Nefoshos”?
Answer:
As a rule, AskTheRav does not take a position on political matters or endorse specific candidates. Thus, the following comments are to be taken as general principles only, without applying it to specific candidates:
From a Halachic standpoint, it is permissible to vote for a candidate even if he or she does not fully align with Torah values, as we are essentially voting for those aspects of the candidate’s platform that we support. This is especially so when all the candidates stand for at least some issues that are not in line with our values, and no particular choice would defend a pro-Torah platform. See here.
At the same time, there is generally little purpose in casting a vote for someone who has no realistic chance of winning, especially if doing so could indirectly strengthen a candidate whose leadership would pose harm or danger to the Jewish community.
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