Chuck Schumer, the Senate Majority Leader, is set to release a book addressing the concerning rise of antisemitism in the United States. The publication, titled "Antisemitism in America," is scheduled to hit shelves on February 18, 2024, as announced by Grand Central Publishing.
The book promises to offer a unique perspective on the issue, drawing from Schumer's personal experiences and religious background. It will chronicle his journey from growing up in Brooklyn during the 1960s, through his time at Harvard in the 1970s, to his extensive career in Washington spanning several decades.
Schumer's work will delve into recent events that have heightened concerns about antisemitism, including the January 6, 2021 Capitol siege and the proliferation of conspiracy theories targeting Jewish communities. The senator aims to contextualize these occurrences within the broader history of antisemitism.
In a statement, Schumer expressed his apprehension about the current climate: "Jewish Americans never thought it could happen here in America. Now, for the first time, they're worried it could." He emphasized the potential consequences of unchecked antisemitism, quoting Irish writer Conor Cruise O'Brien's observation that "antisemitism is a light sleeper."
This publication marks Schumer's second venture into authorship. His previous book, co-written with Daniel Squadron and titled "Positively American: Winning Back the Middle Class One Family at a Time," was released in 2007.
Schumer's upcoming book is particularly significant given his position as the first Jewish person to serve as Senate Majority Leader, a role he has held since January 20, 2021. Throughout his political career, which began with his election to the New York State Assembly in 1974 at the age of 23, Schumer has been a vocal advocate for various causes, including gun control, immigration reform, and support for Israel.
The senator's perfect attendance record in Senate votes since taking office in 1999 underscores his dedication to his role. Schumer's ability to work across party lines on certain issues and his key role in passing significant legislation, such as the Affordable Care Act in 2010, have been notable aspects of his tenure.
As Schumer prepares to share his insights on antisemitism, his book is poised to contribute to the ongoing dialogue about prejudice and its impact on American society. The work is expected to resonate with readers seeking to understand the historical context and potential ramifications of rising antisemitism in the United States.