Afternoon Update

It appears that Columbus Mayor Michael Coleman will not be running for Governor of Ohio. State Senator Eric Fingerhut, the former US Senate candidate, did release a statement this afternoon.

"Mayor Coleman's difficult decision to end his campaign for governor in order to attend to his responsibilities to his family and the citizens of Columbus is an example of the type of leadership he has demonstrated throughout his career. My wife, Amy, and I join with all Ohioans in sending our prayers and best wishes to the entire Coleman family."

Senator Fingerhut, Ohio’s 2004 Democratic Nominee to the United States Senate, is expected to further comment soon, noting that today is really Michael Coleman’s day.

"Michael Coleman’s withdrawal from this race leaves a void," said Fingerhut, noting he had been impressed with Coleman’s initiative to debate and discuss the future direction of the state.

"This race needs a candidate who understands that Ohio is facing competition from around the world for good jobs and opportunities for our citizens," said Fingerhut.

While refraining from making any announcements himself, Fingerhut said he is taking a serious look at this race. "The issues I represent --- creating jobs, making Ohio competitive, making Ohio a place where our children, grandchildren and businesses stay and come back to --- are important issues," Fingerhut said. "Ohioans deserve a governor who will talk about the things that will make Ohio more competitive, and will make a state that we are proud to call home."

I can't exactly say that I agree with the recent editorial that Senator Lieberman wrote. We need a withdrawal plan. It's been far too long.

David Forman, chair of Rabbis for Human Rights, writes about why the left-wing needs responsibility.

I recently concluded a lecture tour in the states. My topic was "Living with terror - morality versus security." How do we protect the body of Israel and, at the same time, safeguard its soul? It is clearly a delicate balancing act, not given to black-and-white answers.

Throughout my talks I encountered one recurring question: "Even though I disagree with your liberal views of Israel, at least you present a balanced picture."

Speaking of Israel, Professor Alan Dershowitz is debating anti-Zionist Noam Chomsky tonight at the Kennedy School of Government. That should be interesting. I support Alan Dershowitz. I've met him as well.