During a CNN interview, Rep. Ilhan Omar was questioned by Abby Phillip about her support for President Joe Biden in light of ongoing protests against his Israel policy. Phillip asked if Omar would commit to voting for Biden in November.
Omar swiftly affirmed her commitment to democracy and expressed her strong opposition to fascism, citing her personal experiences and the impact of Trump’s presidency. She emphasized the need to prevent a recurrence of such circumstances.
Phillip pressed further, asking if Omar believed her constituents would also support Biden, referencing the significant number of votes cast as uncommitted in Minnesota’s primary as a protest against the president.
Omar acknowledged the desire for policy change among those who voted uncommitted, highlighting recent developments such as Vice President Harris’s use of the word “ceasefire” and Biden’s acknowledgment of a red line regarding aid to Israel. She stressed the importance of citizens pushing the administration to address the ongoing crisis faced by Palestinians.
“On the president and this election, which is, as you point out, really important one, you didn’t vote for President Biden or for uncommitted in Minnesota’s primary. The uncommitted vote was a big part of that primary in your home state. I wonder if the election were held today, would you vote for Joe Biden? Can you confirm that he would have your vote today?” Phillip asked.
“Of course, democracy is on the line,” Omar replied quickly, adding:
We are facing down fascism. And I personally know what my life felt like having Trump as the president of this country. And I know what it felt like for my constituents and for people around this country and around the world. We have to do everything that we can to make sure that does not happen to our country again.
