Chronicle poll results: Will 2026 be better for Jews?

We asked our readers if they think 2026 will be better for Jews. Here's what they said.

Last week, the Chronicle asked its readers in an online poll the following question: “Will 2026 be better for Jews?” Of the 197 people who responded, 53% said no; 21% said yes; and 26% said they weren’t sure. Comments were submitted by 71 people. A few follow.

I hope 2026 will be better for Jews, but my knowledge of Jewish history suggests it certainly could be worse.

We must continue to fight back to make a discernible difference.

As long as we continue to allow antisemitism to flourish on both sides of the political landscape, it’s only going to get worse. We need to join together — very loudly — and stand up against this ancient hatred.

The cynical side is me wants to answer, “How could it be any worse?!” The realistic side believes that we have unfortunately not hit bottom yet. In either event, our people shall persevere as we have for millennia under siege/jealousy/hatred. Am Yisrael Chai!

Yes, because President Trump and his administration continue to take assertive and strong action against entities that sanction and allow antisemitic activities, unlike the last administration that did very little out of fear of alienating their left radical base.

I don’t see anything getting better until our vindictive, hate spouting leader is out of office. He makes hate acceptable.

Hopefully a fresh government in Israel will help.

Given the long history of global antisemitism and protests for the destruction of Israel, it’s going to be tougher to be a Jew in America.

I am hopeful but afraid. I was born the same year as Israel and I can’t believe what is happening today. What happened to “Never again”?

Until we all understand anti-Zionism is the new Jew hate, and push back on the new blood libels, things will not get better. Stand proud and be loud.

Part of our safety depends on how Israel behaves.

New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani’s first day is a very bad omen.

There is no indication that antisemitism is even plateauing; it is still on the rise. I think we will need a major cultural shift to see positive change. I do not envision this happening in 2026.

Eventually it has to get better, but I don’t think this year is the year for things to improve. PJC