(RightWing.org) – Members of the House’s notorious “Squad” are known for their exceedingly progressive ideals. They often conflict with other members of Congress, including ones in their own party. Recently, they caused more controversy when the House brought a resolution to the floor for a vote, though it should come as a surprise to no one considering the topic at hand.
House Resolution on Israel
On Tuesday, July 18, Rep. August Pfluger (R-TX) brought a resolution to the floor that was quite simple. It simply stated that the United States stands strong in its support of Israel, maintains that the country “is not a racist or apartheid state,” and that “Congress rejects all forms of antisemitism and xenophobia.” Only 10 Representatives voted no or “present,” and several of them were “Squad” members, including:
- Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY)
- Jamaal Bowman (D-NY)
- Ilhan Omar (D-MN)
- Andre Carson (D-IN)
- Ayana Pressley (D-MA)
- Cori Bush (D-MO)
- Rashida Tlaib (D-MI)
- Summer Lee (D-PA)
- Delia Ramirez (D-IL)
Democratic Representative Betty McCollum of Minnesota is the one who voted “present.”
The same day, Senator Tom Cotton (R-AR) introduced a resolution with the exact same wording in the Senate, though it has yet to go before members for a vote.
“Critical” Action Ahead of Israeli President’s Visit
In a press release, Pfluger called out Democratic Rep. Pramila Jayapal (WA) for statements she made about Israel on Saturday, July 15. She called it a “racist state,” which quickly backfired on her. Members of her own party and Jewish lawmakers called her out on the statements, which resulted in her backtracking. She apologized and tried to clarify her remarks. She said the current leadership’s policies, those of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, are racist and refused to back down on that comment.
Pfluger said the comments were “unacceptable and disgusting” and said the bill was important to Americans so they know exactly where their elected lawmakers stand on the issue. Several Representatives, including Max Miller (R-OH), said that while Jayapal tried to undo the damage, “her intent was crystal clear — and absolutely deplorable.”
On Tuesday, July 18, Israeli President Isaac Herzog visited the United States, meeting with President Joe Biden to celebrate 75 years of independence. Biden warmly welcomed Herzog, a move that strongly contradicts his behavior with Netanyahu, whose policies he’s sharply rebuked.
Tensions between the two governments have been diplomatically tense since Netanyahu came back to power in December 2022. Biden has yet to invite the prime minister to visit the US, something Republicans have criticized him for considering the long partnership the two countries have enjoyed.
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