Vandals targeted the home of a New Jersey Democratic candidate for Congress twice in three days, spray-painting swastikas directly on his home and on the sidewalk outside his house.
Peter Jacob, who is trying to unseat incumbent Republican Leonard Lance to represent the 7th congressional district, and his family were not hurt when the vandals struck at his Union home Oct. 7 and 10.
His campaign says there were signs the vandals also tried to break into his house, but that they could not get inside.
Jacob, the son of Indian immigrants, blames the vandalism on what he says is the rhetoric that has become an integral component of the race for president. He condemned the increasing climate of intolerance this election season even before his own home was targeted -- and reiterated that stance Tuesday.
"I became a social worker and I'm now running for public office to stand up to such injustices, to stand up and dispel such ignorance in our communities," Jacob said at a news conference.
Lance, who has held the congressional seat since 2009, condemned the graffiti, telling NBC 4 New York, "I abhor the vandalism and I hope the perpetrators are apprehended as quickly as possible."
Lance also issued a call to elevate the presidential debate to a higher standard.
If he defeats Lance, Jacob would be the first congressman of Asian heritage representing New Jersey and the fourth Indian-American representative elected to Congress.
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Police are investigating the vandalism.
The Anti-Defamation League also blasted the graffiti.
“The insertion of hatred into this political campaign is offensive to everyone and should be condemned by all,” Joshua Cohen, ADL New Jersey Regional Director, said in a statement. “The swastika is a universal symbol of hate, meant to instill fear and intimidation."
