CNN was gracious in their notation of the political dynamics the Democrat party is facing in the coming midterms, stating on Twitter that Deutch was “seeking another office in a challenging political environment.”
Deutch serves as chairman of the House Ethics Committee and is a member of the Foreign Affairs and Judiciary committees.
According to a CNN report, Deutch became an outspoken advocate for gun control measures following the 2018 mass shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in his district.
“Our community was profoundly changed on February 14, 2018,” said Deutch in a statement at the time of the shooting. “Seventeen students and teachers of Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School were killed that day, and I have tried every day since to be there for their families and to help them honor the memories of their loved ones in all the ways they are working to make our schools and community safer.”
“I have also tried to support the survivors in any way I can, though it is their powerful voices that have helped create desperately needed change,” he added. “The Parkland families and student survivors inspire me every day.”
Deutch announced he is leaving politics to become the CEO of the American Jewish Committee. In his new position, he intends to draw on his experience as a House Foreign Affairs Committee member, saying:
“Even as Iran continues its illicit quest for nuclear weapons and support for terror groups worldwide, we are also witnessing a new era of cooperation in the Middle East that brings transformative new opportunities.”
Deutch added: “For me, this foreign policy work has been a natural continuation of my deep ties to the American Jewish community (AJC) and my long-standing advocacy on behalf of the U.S.-Israel relationship.”
The AJC confirmed Deutch would become CEO of the organization as of October 1, replacing David Harris, who has led the organization since 1990.
“Ted’s deep and lifelong commitment to the Jewish community, Israel, and to the protection of democratic values is obvious to all who know him,” said AJC president Harriet P. Schleifer. “His shared passion for AJC’s mission and vision makes him a natural fit to advance our critical global work and to build on David Harris’s extraordinary legacy.”
Deutch has served in Congress since 2010. In his retirement statement, Deutch said:
“I have tried every day since to be there for their families and to help them honor the memories of their loved ones in all the ways they are working to make our schools and community safer,” he said. “I have also tried to support the survivors in any way I can, though it is their powerful voices that have helped create desperately needed change.”
Scroll down to leave a comment and share your thoughts.
