Historic Victory for Reform Movement in World Zionist Congress Elections

JUNE 5, 2025 - NEW YORK, NY — The Union for Reform Judaism (URJ) and Association of Reform Zionists of America (ARZA) proudly announce an historic win in the 2025 World Zionist Congress (WZC) elections. The Vote Reform slate received more votes than any other slate — not only in this election, but in the entire history of the WZC. 

With 47,887 votes, Vote Reform emerged as the leading voice of American Jewry, reaffirming the Reform Movement’s central role in shaping the future of Zionism, democracy, and pluralism in Israel and around the world. 

“This is more than just a win for our slate — it is a resounding mandate for the values we champion,” said Rabbi Rick Jacobs, President of the Union for Reform Judaism. “In a moment of global uncertainty and rising antisemitism, our community stepped forward with clarity and courage to say: we will lead, we will protect democracy, and we will build a more just and inclusive future for Jews everywhere.” 

The 2025 election shattered turnout records, with over 230,000 votes cast — an 86% increase from the 2020 WZC election. The 152 U.S. delegates elected will join representatives from across the globe at the 39th World Zionist Congress in Jerusalem this October, helping shape the allocation of more than $1 billion in annual support for Israel and world Jewry. 

Vote Reform’s victory ensures that the Reform Movement will continue to: 

• Promote religious pluralism, equality, and justice in Israel
• Secure critical funding for Reform institutions in Israel and worldwide
• Defend democratic values in the face of rising extremism
• Advocate for the safety and dignity of all Jews amid increasing antisemitic threats
• Fight for the release of all hostages still held in Gaza and a peaceful future for the region 

Despite disinformation campaigns and challenges to voting integrity, the success of Vote Reform was secured through a fair, honorable, and values-driven campaign, powered by tens of thousands of committed Reform Jews. 

“This win belongs to our movement,” said Rabbi Jacobs. “To the volunteers, voters, and advocates who showed up in record numbers — your voice has changed the future.”