Radio Recap: More Anti-Semitism from Representative Omar

Once again, in 2019, our Representatives have to vote on something that shouldn’t even be in question – this time anti-Semitism – but has to be addressed due to the words of one of their own members. It’s actually embarrassing.

Today on the show, we discussed Congresswoman Ilhan Omar (D-MN) who we already told you tweeted multiple anti-Semitic statements – and later gave a seemingly insincere apology – and her most recent anti-Israel comments.

Rep. Omar has essentially claimed she doesn’t hate Jewish people, but clearly stands against the Jewish state of Israel. Speaking at a bookstore last week, Omar said: “I want to talk about the political influence in this country that says it is OK for people to push for allegiance to a foreign country.”

This might seem like an innocuous statement, but it’s actually an old anti-Semitic trope, as throughout history, Jews have been accused of dual loyalty, which has to led to hateful discrimination and even violence.

Even Rep. Omar’s fellow Congresswoman and Democrat Nita Lowey tweeted: “I believe we can debate important policy without using offensive, painful stereotypes.”

Tomorrow, the House will vote on a resolution officially condemning anti-Semitism. Unfortunately, this resolution, spearheaded by Speaker Nancy Pelosi, is particularly weak and vague. It addresses anti-Semitism, but does not actually mention Rep. Omar by name or her specific anti-Semitic statements. It’s just words, and the words have no teeth at all.

It’s only a generic political statement that even if passed, which is likely – what Congressman or woman would publicly vote for anti-Semitism? – relieves Rep. Omar of any recourse for her comments.

Any Member of Congress who espouses hateful rhetoric, such as Rep. Omar has done, should not be allowed a seat on the House Foreign Affairs Committee. Omar should be removed from the committee, and truthfully, should be censured by Congress.

How important do you think it is to condemn anti-Semitism?

You can listen to the entire episode here.