How a Snowstorm Shiva Forged David Friedman’s Friendship with Donald Trump
David Friedman Image by Courtesy Cindy Grosz
By Cindy Grosz November 14, 2016
The night before the election, David Friedman spoke at a standing-room only event and opened it by telling a story that the media would never cover: the moment that cemented his friendship with then real estate magnate Donald J. Trump. It was during a snowstorm, and David’s father has just died. Neighbors told David that they could not attend his Shiva week visits of consolation and respect.
David was sitting alone. And David understood. All of a sudden, a tall man walked in and embraced him. Donald Trump managed to make it from NYC to the Friedman home. It took Trump 3 and a half hours. They sat and spoke intimately for over an hour. Friedman saw a side to Trump he never saw before.
Until that point, Friedman was simply one of Trump’s attorneys. After that, Trump became a friend. Trump also turned to David and asked him questions about Israel. Trump didn’t dictate; he had sincere concerns and questions, and listened to what he was told.
Trump has never waivered on his respect for Jews and Christians and their ties to Israel and Jerusalem.
It has been well documented how Trump never discouraged Ivanka from converting and practicing a traditional, more observant way of life, or Eric getting married under a chuppah (a religious canopy), or even Tiffany from dating a Jewish democrat.
Friedman discussed how Trump wants to work with anyone who wants to work with Israel. This was most apparent when David Friedman and Jason Greenblatt, another advisor to Trump on Jewish affairs and Israel drew up the most pro-Israel, pro-Zionist platform for the RNC that many call the most pro-Israel platform in America’s history from either party.
Friedman will be an amazing voice and influence. Aside from his family, Israel is the most important concern in his life. He was brought up with it. Over 30 years ago, David’s father made history when he invited President Ronald Reagan to address his congregation on Long Island. His mother made a traditional Jewish Sabbath meal. David sat next to the president. I have a feeling President Trump will also be visiting a synagogue or shul very soon.
Image by Courtesy Cindy Grosz
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