Obama, Rick Perry, others greet the Jewish New Year

President Obama and lawmakers on both sides of the aisle welcomed the Jewish New Year on Wednesday, the eve of the Jewish holiday.

Obama and Republican presidential hopeful Rick Perry both used their New Year greetings to reaffirm their support of Israel, a recent hot topic in the presidential campaign.

“While we cannot know all that the New Year will bring, we do know this: The United States will continue to stand with Israel, because the bond between our two nations is unshakable,” Obama said in a news release. He also released a Web video of his annual Rosh Hashanah greeting.

In his own news release from the Texas governor’s office, Perry said: “This Rosh Hashanah brings continued challenges for our Jewish brethren in the Middle East, but through it all, it’s important that Texas and the United States remain committed to a strong and secure Israel, which has been one of our most dedicated partners in the ongoing war on terror.”

Members of Congress tweeted less politically inclined greetings, including the Jewish saying “Shana Tovah” for “a good and sweet year.”

“As the Jewish community ushers in 5772, may the new year bring with it joyful beginnings,” tweeted House Minority Whip Steny Hoyer (D-Md.). Hoyer and Rep. Allen West (R-Fla.) both tweeted the Hebrew greeting: “Shana Tovah Tekatevu u’Tekhatemu — let all be inscribed and sealed for a sweet new year.”

“A Happy, Healthy and Sweet New Year to my Jewish friends,” West added.

Republican Sens. Pat Toomey (Pa.) and Rob Portman (Ohio), along with Rep. Bob Latta (R-Ohio) were among the other lawmakers tweeting “Shana Tovah” greetings Wednesday.

The Jewish New Year begins at sundown.

---