One wonders what American Jewry would have thought about FDR scolding Wise and Silver and embracing the myth that Zionist advocacy would result in 100,000 American deaths.
Not knowing Roosevelt’s true feelings, American Jews trusted their leaders’ assurances and gave FDR their overwhelming support. That was the equivalent of unilateral political disarmament, because Roosevelt, convinced of Jewish support, felt little pressure to address Jewish concerns.
There are times when conversations with political leaders should be kept completely confidential. And there are times when Jewish leaders understandably emphasize the positive and downplay the negative, for the sake of a greater cause. But there are also times when a little transparency can do a world of good.