Kerry still trying to work out J Street appearance

Capital J

By Eric Fingerhut · October 20, 2009

Sen. John Kerry (D-Mass.) is still trying to arrange a time to speak to the J Street Conference next week, contrary to this report in Politico.

Kerry spokeswoman Whitney Smith told JTA that while Kerry's office informed the left-wing pro-Israel group weeks ago he couldn't speak at the "keynote" slot J Street had requested on Tuesday, "we're just working with scheduling to get another opportunity to address the conference."

J Street spokeswoman Amy Spitalnick said the same.

"In light of Senator Kerry's schedule, we are still trying to find a way to make it possible for him to appear at and speak to our supporters during the conference or gala," she said.

Smith added that Kerry remains a member of the conference's host committee and continues to support the group.