Rep. Jerry Nadler’s announcement Monday evening that he will retire next year – after serving 17 terms in Congress – marks the end of an era for New York’s Jewish political influence. His departure underscores the narrowing pipeline of senior Jewish lawmakers who once defined Democratic power in New York and Washington. Nadler is the longest-serving Jewish member and has served as dean of an informal group of Jewish Democrats in the House in recent years. Nadler’s shift on IsraelEven before Nadler announced his retirement, he worked to define a new model of progressive support for Israel. Nadler told the Times he plans to support legislation to block the transfer of offensive weapons to Israel.