Gottheimer meets with security officials, faith leaders on threats to houses of worship
WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Rep. Josh Gottheimer convened a meeting Tuesday with New Jersey homeland security officials and faith leaders to address growing security concerns facing religious communities.
The meeting included representatives from the New Jersey Office of Homeland Security and Preparedness, including Director Thomas Hauck and Director of Preparedness Charles Ambio, along with faith leaders from across the state.
Participants discussed the evolving threat landscape, coordination between law enforcement and religious institutions, and the need for additional federal resources to enhance security at houses of worship.
“Right now, with rising tensions in the Middle East and the ongoing conflict involving Iran, it is more important than ever that we remain vigilant against threats — especially against our faith communities,” said Congressman Gottheimer (NJ-5). “In recent weeks, there was an attack on a synagogue in Michigan and, right here in Teaneck, where a 19-year-old was shot with a pellet gun outside of a synagogue— a deeply disturbing reminder that antisemitism and hate are alive and well.”
Gottheimer concluded, “No one should feel unsafe walking into a synagogue, church, mosque, or temple in New Jersey or anywhere in America.”
A key focus of the discussion was the federal Nonprofit Security Grant Program, which provides funding for security measures such as surveillance systems, access controls and trained personnel. Gottheimer has advocated for increasing funding for the program to $1 billion in fiscal year 2027.
Officials also reviewed national trends in antisemitism and their impact on communities, including in New Jersey.
