White House Chanukah Celebration Highlights Jewish-American Solidarity

The 2025 White House Chanukah party, attended by a host of Jewish figures, was held Tuesday night.

Rabbi Levi Shemtov, Executive Vice President of American Friends of Lubavitch, presided over the menorah lighting, in front of the packed crowd in the White House’s East Room. Joining him was Will Scharf, the President’s personal attorney and advisor, who recited the She’asa Nissim bracha. The President, visibly impressed by the display of faith, drew laughter and applause from the crowd when he remarked, “I didn’t know he was that Jewish! You are seriously Jewish!”

President Trump used his address to draw parallels between the Chashmonaim’s victory and the modern resilience of the Jewish people.

Speaking to a room filled with community leaders and families, he emphasized that the story of the oil lasting eight days remains a “new era of hope” for everyone today.

“They fought with bravery, conviction, and faith,” the President said, referring to the Chanukah story. “And guess what? You won.” He reaffirmed his administration’s stance as a bulwark against antisemitism, promising the attendees that the White House would remain a place where Jewish heritage is not only protected but celebrated with dignity.

The event also honored the philanthropic legacy of the Adelson family. Miriam Adelson shared a personal story of her husband Sheldon’s lifelong devotion to the state of Israel and the Jewish people. The President praised the couple’s “incredible” commitment, noting that their work was always rooted in a love for the community.

Trump took aim at antisemitic politicians. “You have a Congress, in particular, which is becoming antisemitic,” Trump said. “You have AOC plus three. You have those people, Ilhan Omar, she hates Jewish people. And you have to be very careful, because there’s been a big change.”

Singer Shulem Lemmer performed a Yiddish rendition of “God Bless America” at the event. News of his planned performance was first reported by Belaaz.