A controversial Michigan congresswoman has apologised for suggesting money from the lobby group Aipac is the reason why the United States supports Israel.
Ilhan Omar, who was elected to the US House of Representatives in November, used the phrase “It’s all about the Benjamins baby” — a reference to Benjamin Franklin, who appears on a $100 banknote — during a discussion on Twitter.
Her remark drew swift condemnation from both Democrats and Republicans in Washington, DC, including House speaker Nancy Pelosi and President Donald Trump, prompting Ms Omar to “unequivocally” apologise.
In a tweet on Monday evening she wrote: “Anti-Semitism is real and I am grateful for Jewish allies and colleagues who are educating me on the painful history of anti-Semitic tropes.
“My intention is never to offend my constituents or Jewish Americans as a whole.
Listening and learning, but standing strong 💪🏽 pic.twitter.com/7TSroSf8h1
— Ilhan Omar (@IlhanMN) February 11, 2019
“We have to always be willing to step back and think through criticism, just as I expect people to hear me when others attack me for my identity. That is why I unequivocally apologize.”
Her statement came after a request from Ms Pelosi, who said that antisemitism “must be called out, confronted and condemned whenever it is encountered, without exception”.
The Democrats won a majority in the House of Representatives last November, but Ms Pelosi now presides over a caucus containing a wide range of views on Israel.
Flying to Texas on Air Force One for a rally later on Monday evening, Mr Trump said Ms Omar's statement was insufficient.
“I think it was a terrible statement, and I don’t think her apology was adequate,” he told reporters. When asked what the Michigan representative should have said instead, Mr Trump replied: “she knows what to say.”
