A conspiracy theorist with anti-Semitic views, running for California governor, has had his disturbing remarks circulated in state voting guides sent to millions. This has prompted backlash from Jewish organizations that question how he was included in official materials.
Don J. Grundman has gained attention for his outlandish comments; in a 2019 meeting with the Modesto City Council, he labeled himself a “totally peaceful racist” and suggested that Israel was responsible for the death of conservative activist Charlie Kirk and even the 9/11 attacks.
In the voter guide, he claimed, “Mr. Kirk was killed by a shaped bomb used by Israel. The government knows it.” This controversial statement has sparked protests against California’s Secretary of State, Shirley Weber.
The 64-page booklet lists candidates’ names, photos, political affiliations, and personal statements. It clarifies that the opinions presented are those of the candidates, not the Secretary of State’s Office.
Grundman also branded Israel and the U.S. as their “greatest enemy,” alleging that Israel might deploy a “suitcase nuclear weapon” in a so-called false flag operation that would purportedly destroy the country while blaming Russia and Iran.
He further claimed that Israel “enslaves” non-indigenous individuals, insinuating that non-Jews are seen as “goyim” who are subjugated.
“The Talmud says that Christ is welling up within them,” he wrote, and accused Israel of planning attacks to justify genocide and embezzle funds.
Several Jewish organizations, including the Anti-Defamation League and the Israeli-American Council, sent a letter to Weber, expressing their discontent with Grundman’s inclusion in the guide.
The letter noted that distributing such inflammatory statements in a state-issued document lends them an unwarranted sense of legitimacy. “This undermines the safety and dignity of the Jewish community,” it stated.
Guidelines for candidates insist on “true and correct” statements, and there are questions about how Grundman’s comments were vetted and approved, particularly since his statements stand out in bold, while others appear in smaller print.
A webpage detailing these guidelines has been retracted following the protests. Ilana Mailovich, president of the Jewish Community Action Network, criticized Weber, questioning the credibility of future voter guides. “When this kind of material is printed on government paper, it feels like an endorsement,” she remarked.
Grundman first attracted media attention for proposing a “straight pride” event in Modesto, claiming then, “We are a completely peaceful, non-racist group,” despite pushback.
Both Grundman and Weber’s offices were contacted for comments. California’s primary election is set for June this year, with the general election in November.
