Statement: Agudath Israel of America congratulates Representative Paul Ryan on his new leadership role as Speaker of the House.

Speaker Ryan has a proven and consistent record of support for Israel. He understands well the great strategic value of the US- Israel alliance and the two countries’ shared democratic values and historical ties. Perhaps more importantly, he has demonstrated understanding of the grave dangers Israel faces — the violence in the West Bank and Gaza, the scourge of terrorism, and the Iranian nuclear threat.

On the domestic front, Speaker Ryan has been a staunch advocate of school choice, where parents are recognized as the ones best suited to choose the most appropriate education for their children. And he has shown commitment to America’s charities and their good works by supporting the charitable deduction.

By all accounts, the Speaker is a thoughtful and knowledgeable legislator, and a person with an affable nature. We have enjoyed the several encounters we have had with him over the past several years, and look forward to enhancing that relationship and working closely with him in the years ahead. Speaker Ryan has our best wishes for a most productive tenure.

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