By Douglas Ernst - The Washington Times - Monday, October 29, 2018

Tree of Life Rabbi Jeffrey Myers had a direct answer for CNN’s Alisyn Camerota on Monday when she asked if President Trump would be welcomed into his synagogue: “Always.”

Saturday’s attack on Pittsburgh’s Jewish community claimed the lives of 11 congregants and was immediately called an act of “evil” worthy of the death penalty by Mr. Trump. Still, the network’s “New Day” anchor asked the religious leader whether the commander in chief’s presence was wanted to share in their collective mourning.

“President Trump has talked about coming to Pittsburgh and coming to your synagogue in the aftermath of this. Do you want him to come?” Ms. Camerota asked.

“The President of the United States is always welcome,” the rabbi said without hesitation. “I am a citizen, he is my president. He is always welcome.”

The question came in conjunction with an inquiry as to who else “beyond the gunman” bears culpability for the shooting.

“I don’t really foist blame upon any person,” the rabbi said, the Daily Caller reported. “Hate does not know religion, race, creed, political party. It’s not a political issue in any way, shape, or form. Hate does not know any of those things.”

SEE ALSO: Rabbi Jeffrey Myers of Tree of Life Synagogue warns shooting is ‘an attack upon America’

Robert Bowers, 46, was arrested after the killing and charged under federal hate crime statutes. He may face the death penalty if convicted.

• Douglas Ernst can be reached at dernst@washingtontimes.com.

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