Beth Bendheim (50), a Democrat from Richmond, VA, was the development director for a Jewish day school in Richmond prior to working in finance. She also held public relations and marketing positions in the sports world, including with a cycling race originally sponsored by Donald Trump, known as the Tour de Trump. Bendheim was active in the 2018 Virginia Congressional campaign of Democrat Abigail Spanberger, who defeated Republican incumbent Dave Brat.
We are providing the unfiltered opinions of voters interviewed for this project. Those views are based on their understanding and perception of facts and information from a range of sources. In some cases, that information may be misleading or incorrect.
What are your reactions to the protests occurring across the country? I believe it’s wonderful. I give lots of credit to the younger generation. There are participants from all walks of life.
What are your reactions to the looting, curfews and the police response of pepper spray, rubber bullets and arrests? It’s absolutely horrible. I believe the curfews are necessary because of the looting and violence. Seeing first-hand how the police are overreacting really bothers me.
What do you think about the call to “defund” police departments? I don’t agree with it.
Have you participated in any demonstrations? Because of COVID, I have not participated, but I would otherwise.
How do you think the president has handled this crisis? How has Joe Biden handled this crisis? Trump has not handled this crisis well at all. Biden is rising to the occasion and I am so grateful. I knew he had it in him.
Have the events that have taken place over the last week changed your views on the upcoming Presidential election? No
Do you think recent events will push people to one candidate or the other? Yes, I think more will lean towards voting. This country is a mess right now and if Donald Trump keeps trying to tear down our civil liberties, more independents will lean towards Joe Biden. The stunt at the Episcopal Church with the bible shows how dangerous Trump is and I hope more people will not vote for him. Military leaders are now speaking up and pushing for Biden though hardcore Trump supporters will still support Trump.
Is there anything else you would like to share with us? The Commonwealth of Virginia is now finally removing the statue of Robert E. Lee, and I am thrilled.