Wednesday at House Democrats’ weekly press conference, Rep. Hakeem Jeffries (D-NY) said “we are not going to be lectured” by Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) who said antisemitism is on the rise in the House of Representatives.
Tuesday while discussing a House resolution condemning antisemitism in response to Rep. Ilhan Omar (D-MN) controversial remarks, McConnell said, “Now, this is a good time for America to think again about antisemitism. It seems to be more fashionable in Europe. It seems to be more fashionable in this country, regretfully, among at least some members of the new class in the House.”
Jeffries said, “Let me generally say there’s not a rise of antisemitism in the House of Representatives. There’s a rise of anti-Semitic behavior and activity and violence in the country. And it’s irresponsible for Mitch McConnell to try and politicize this issue.”
He added, “Antisemitism is not a political issue, it’s an issue that we all need to collective address and do it in a non-partisan way. And not fan the flames of division, by trying to promote Mitch McConnell’s political agenda. That’s the height of irresponsibility. When has he ever said anything about the hateful remarks that continue to flow out of 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue? When has he ever said anything about that? So we are not going to be lectured by Mitch McConnell on anything, and that shameless behavior must be discontinued.”
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