WATCH: Bipartisan Leaders Join Hanukkah Menorah Lighting at U.S. Capitol Hosted by Speaker Mike Johnson

WASHINGTON — Congressional leaders gathered in the Rayburn Room on Wednesday evening for the annual U.S. Capitol Hanukkah reception and Menorah lighting, hosted by House Speaker Mike Johnson and led by Rabbi Levi Shemtov. The event drew senior lawmakers from both parties, including Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, and Jewish members of Congress such as Reps. Dan Goldman and Randy Fine.

Sen. Schumer opened the ceremony with remarks reflecting on the themes of Hanukkah, calling it a story of “inspirational perseverance against tyranny” and a reminder that “one person’s light can help drown out the darkness.” Highlighting the ancient miracle of the single jar of oil that burned for eight days, Schumer said the holiday teaches that “brighter days are always ahead,” even amid challenging times for Jewish communities worldwide.

He noted that this year’s celebration comes with a “sigh of relief,” following the reunification of all living hostages taken by Hamas two years ago. Schumer reaffirmed Congress’ “ironclad” commitment to fighting antisemitism and supporting “Israel’s right to exist as a Jewish and democratic state.”

Rabbi Shemtov, who led the lighting, praised the bipartisan gathering as a continuation of the message of unity embedded in the Menorah itself. He recalled moments in Congress where Democrats and Republicans have come together on behalf of Jewish communities, saying the Menorah symbolizes bringing “light into the darkness and hope where there is despair.”

Speaker Johnson later addressed attendees, calling Hanukkah a tribute to “the resilience and perseverance of the Jewish people” and emphasizing America’s guarantee of religious freedom. He highlighted the significance of the Menorah used at the Capitol — crafted from steel of intercepted missiles destroyed by Israel’s Iron Dome — as a reminder of modern-day struggles for security and survival.

Johnson also referenced a recent joint effort with Speaker of the Israeli Knesset Amir Ohana to nominate President Donald Trump for the 2026 Nobel Peace Prize, citing Trump’s role in forging multiple peace agreements.

Wednesday’s ceremony marked the third annual congressional Menorah lighting and featured traditional blessings and songs as lawmakers joined together ahead of the holiday.