Progressive Dem Rep. Jayapal sparks controversy with 'racist state' comments about Israel

Democratic Rep. Pramila Jayapal, chair of the Congressional Progressive Caucus, referred to Israel as a "racist state" while addressing pro-Palestine protesters at a conference. House progressives have been vocal about their opposition to Israeli settlements and the US sponsorship of Israel's Iron Dome defense system. Several lawmakers, including Jayapal, have announced they will not attend Israeli President Isaac Herzog's address to Congress due to concerns about human rights. Jayapal thanked the protesters for their activism and expressed willingness to work with them, while urging them to allow the panel discussion to continue.