Why Jewish Leaders Back Rusty Paul

This year’s Sandy Springs mayoral election is remarkable for many reasons. For the first time, two Jewish candidates — Andy Bauman and Jody Reichel — are challenging the incumbent, Rusty Paul. And yet, in a striking show of confidence, many of the city’s most prominent Jewish leaders and families are firmly supporting Paul’s re-election. At first glance, that might seem contradictory. But the story here is not about identity. It is about trust earned, relationships built, and moral clarity shown in moments that matter most.

A Proven Record

For more than three decades, Rusty Paul has been a steady friend of the Jewish community. He has spoken out against antisemitism, strengthened security at schools and synagogues, and stood shoulder to shoulder with Jewish leaders during difficult times. He has been a visible and reliable partner when others hesitated.

Robert Rothberg explains his support for Rusty: “As a lifelong Atlantan, I’ve seen Sandy Springs transform into one of the most vibrant and desirable communities in Georgia. Much of that progress — and the continued growth of our Jewish community — reflects Mayor Rusty Paul’s exceptional leadership. Our city would be fortunate to have him serve another term.”

Sara Kogon adds her support, “I will never forget all that Mayor Rusty Paul did for the Jewish community after the horrific events of Oct. 7. Thanks to his leadership, Sandy Springs brought our entire community together for both the citywide vigil and the one-year commemoration. We felt seen, supported, and safe because of our remarkable mayor.”

Steve Wertheim says, “It has been a privilege to know Rusty Paul for over 20 years. His proven record of effective leadership in Sandy Springs, coupled with his unwavering support for the Jewish community and dedication to strengthening the Georgia-Israel relationship, showcases his commitment to our values and needs. He has been a friend and ally, and he has truly earned and deserves our support.”

Stacy Fialkow is adamant, “Hands down, Mayor Paul is the most accomplished and qualified candidate. He has served in all levels of government: Assistant Secretary for Congressional and Intergovernmental Relations for HUD, served in the Georgia State Senate, and served on city council. His experience coupled with an authentic tone of nonpartisanship and commitment to community engagement are the key ingredients to his leadership in making Sandy Springs the best city to live in Georgia. And if that isn’t enough, Rusty is a mensch. He wears his White Rose lapel pin with pride and is an unapologetic champion of the Jewish community.”

Isaac Frank explains, “At a time when antisemitism is running rampant and so many of our elected officials have chosen to distance themselves from Israel and the Jewish people … Mayor Paul has leaned into our community with moral clarity & unapologetic support!”

Voices of Leadership

What makes this election so notable is the chorus of Jewish voices rising in support of Paul. These are not casual endorsements; they are heartfelt affirmations from leaders who know him best who either live in Sandy Springs or have business in Sandy Springs.

Marty Kogon is clear, “I’ve known Rusty for nearly 40 years. I like him, I trust him, and I’ve seen his effectiveness firsthand. Sandy Springs’ success speaks for itself. Rusty understands this community like no one else and has always stood with the Jewish community here and in Israel. I proudly support him for Mayor.”

Joel Marks puts it plainly: “I feel Rusty is the right person at this time to continue the great work he has done for Sandy Springs. I am happy to stand up for Rusty.”

Linda Selig is equally direct: “Mayor Rusty Paul has been an extraordinary friend to the Jewish community and a steadfast supporter of Israel. In a time of rising antisemitism, he has ensured the safety and security of our schools and institutions, while standing shoulder to shoulder with us in both word and deed. His leadership reflects not only strength, but true moral clarity.”

Carol Cooper, who has known Paul since his days lobbying, adds, “He knows, understands, and supports our Jewish community and Israel. Sandy Springs has flourished under his leadership, and I am proud of all he has accomplished.”

Other voices echo the same theme. Jay Davis: “Rusty has done a great job. We need to support him as he has supported us.” Robert Arogeti: “Rusty has a proven track record of results and a unique ability to build relationships across all parts of Sandy Springs. With Rusty as mayor, I look forward to the continued success and growth of Sandy Springs as a vibrant city over the next four years.”

Charles Lipman: “I am voting for Rusty because he has been a great mayor and great to the Jewish community.” For me, this is about loyalty. It is important that politicians in Georgia know that we are loyal to great public servants who are loyal to us. Rusty has been a great mayor for Sandy Springs and has been a great friend to the Jewish community.

And from longtime community builders like Steve Selig and Norman Radow, the message is consistent: Rusty Paul has been there for the Jewish community in word and deed. And we need to be there for him.

More Than Endorsements

These statements matter not just because of who said them, but because of what they represent. They show that Paul’s support among Jewish leaders is not transactional. It is built on years of partnership, on standing together in moments of challenge, and on the recognition that he sees the Jewish community not as a constituency but as neighbors, friends, and partners in shaping the city’s future.

The Bottom Line

In this election, Jewish voters have choices — including candidates from within the community. But the endorsements of Arogeti, Cooper, Davis, Fialkow, Frank, Radow, Rothberg, Kogon, Lipman, Marks, Selig, Wertheim, myself and others reveal something powerful: trusted Jewish voices in Sandy Springs believe Rusty Paul is the leader best equipped to guide the city forward. As one supporter put it, “Rusty Paul doesn’t just talk about being a friend to the Jewish people — he proves it.” That is why, in a year of many choices, so many Jewish leaders are choosing Rusty Paul.

David Zalik is an entrepreneur and philanthropist. Zalik co-founded The Zalik Foundation, which supports Jewish education, children and families in need, and Jewish communities in the U.S. and Israel. To date, the foundation has granted over $150 million.