House passes resolution condemning bigotry

Rep. Ilhan Omar stirred controversy last week saying that Israel’s supporters are pushing U.S. lawmakers to take a pledge of “allegiance to a foreign country.” Omar is not apologizing for that remark, and progressives are supporting her. | AP photo

WASHINGTON — The House has passed a resolution condemning anti-Semitism, discrimination against Muslims and other bigotry against minorities.

The 407-23 vote Thursday was a bid to end dissension among Democrats over congresswoman Ilhan Omar’s latest remarks on Israel. Omar said the Jewish state’s allies pressure lawmakers to pledge “allegiance” to a foreign country.

Some lawmakers wanted Omar implicitly rebuked with a measure condemning anti-Semitism. But others said the resolution should condemn discrimination against Muslims, too.

House Speaker Nancy Pelosi said Omar didn’t intend the remark to be anti-Semitic.

Democrats have long been split over the U.S.-Israeli relationship. But the developments seem to highlight a divide that’s as generational as it is ideological. The dynamics on Israel have seeped into the party’s fight over the 2020 presidential nomination.

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