House Democratic leaders are currently crafting a resolution condemning anti-semitism in response to comments from Rep. Ilhan Omar (D-MN) which have been criticized as anti-Semitic by some of her colleagues, Politico and The Hill reported Monday.
Staffers for Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi (D-CA), Majority Leader Steny Hoyer (D-MD), Reps. Eliot Engel (D-NY) Jerrold Nadler (D-NY) and Ted Deutch (D-FL) are currently working on writing the resolution but leaders plan to vote on the resolution on Wednesday, according to The Hill.
Omar received backlash again over the weekend for commenting on pro-Israel advocates’ “allegiance to a foreign country,” a remark seen as anti-Semitic by Omar’s Jewish colleagues. House Appropriations Committee chairwoman Nita Lowey (D-NY), who is Jewish, called Omar’s comments a perpetuation of “offensive, painful stereotypes” about Jewish people. Engel called Omar’s remarks a “vile anti-Semitic slur.”
No member of Congress is asked to swear allegiance to another country. Throughout history, Jews have been accused of dual loyalty, leading to discrimination and violence, which is why these accusations are so hurtful.
— Nita Lowey (@NitaLowey) March 3, 2019
Omar dug in on Twitter, arguing she was simply questioning the U.S.’s relationship with Israel.
Our democracy is built on debate, Congresswoman! I should not be expected to have allegiance/pledge support to a foreign country in order to serve my country in Congress or serve on committee. The people of the 5th elected me to serve their interest. I am sure we agree on that! https://t.co/gglAS4FVJW
— Ilhan Omar (@IlhanMN) March 3, 2019
I am told everyday that I am anti-American if I am not pro-Israel. I find that to be problematic and I am not alone. I just happen to be willing to speak up on it and open myself to attacks.
— Ilhan Omar (@IlhanMN) March 3, 2019
Just weeks ago, Omar was called out by Democratic leadership and prompted to apologize after she published a tweet criticizing the influence of the powerful lobbying group American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC), another comment many found anti-Semitic.
Omar has not hidden her opposition to Israeli policies since before she was elected. She openly supports BDS (Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions) against the Israeli government and has been outspoken about the sway AIPAC has in Washington.
