JTA: The Global News Service of the Jewish People

More thoughts and opinion on the White House meeting

By Eric Fingerhut · July 14, 2009

What some bloggers, and some who were there, are saying about Monday's White House meeting between President Obama and 16 Jewish leaders:

• Jennifer Rubin of Commentary was disappointed in the lack of dissent at what she calls a "scripted minuet in conflict avoidance."
• And Rick Richman, also at Commentary, objects to Obama's reported statement that there was "no progress" in the Middle East over the last eight years.
• Blogger Richard Silverstein applauds Obama for "pushing back" against Malcolm Hoenlein's question.
• National Jewish Democratic Council CEO Ira Forman says the president was "masterful."
• J Street's Jeremy Ben-Ami describes Obama's approach in the Middle East as "pushing while hugging" and "left the room feeling we are truly at a historic moment of opportunity."
• Americans for Peace Now's Debra DeLee "wholeheartedly" embraces Obama's position on settlements after the meeting.