Minn. Democrat issues apology for statements called anti-Semitic
Rep. Ilhan WASHINGTON —
Omar, who has been battling charges of anti-Semitism for weeks, apologized Monday for insinuating that U.S. support for Israel is fueled by money from a pro-Israel lob- bying group a comment
— that drew swift and unqualified condemnation from fellow Democrats on Monday, including House Speaker Nancy Pelosi.
“Anti-Semitism is real and I am grateful for Jewish allies and colleagues who are edu- cating me on the painful history of anti-Semitic tropes,” Omar, a freshman Democrat from Minnesota and one of the first two Muslim women elected to Congress, said in a statement released on Twit- ter. “My intention is never to offend my constituents or Jewish Americans as a whole.”
She added, “I unequivocally apologize.” But she did not back away from her contention that the lobbying group, the American Israel Public Affairs Committee, has too much power in Wash- ington. “At the same time, I reaffirm the problematic role of lobbyists in our pol- itics, whether it be AIPAC, the NRA or the fossil fuel industry,” Omar wrote.
Her comments came after Pelosi and the entire House Democratic leadership issued a statement condemning her for tweeting Sunday night that support for Israel was “all about the Benjamins, baby,” a reference to hundred-dollar bills.
“Legitimate criticism of Israel’s policies is protected by the values of free speech and democratic debate that the United States and Israel share. But Congresswoman Omar’s use of anti-Semitic tropes and prejudicial accusations about Israel’s supporters is deeply offensive,” the five House Democratic leaders said in a joint statement. “We condemn these remarks and we call upon Congresswoman Omar to immediately apologize for these hurtful comments. As Democrats and as Americans, the entire Congress must be fully engaged in denouncing and rejecting all forms of hatred, racism, prejudice and discrimination wherever they are encountered.”