- Donald Trump caused controversy by using the term “Shylocks” during a rally in Des Moines, Iowa, while discussing bankers and loans.
- The president stated he had “never heard” the word was antisemitic, defining it as a moneylender who charges high rates.
- The term “Shylock” originates from Shakespeare’s The Merchant of Venice and is widely recognised as an offensive antisemitic slur, based on harmful stereotypes of Jewish people.
- Jewish leaders and politicians condemned Trump’s use of the word, labelling it “blatant and vile antisemitism” and insisting his use of it was deliberate.
- This incident follows previous accusations of Trump perpetuating antisemitic stereotypes, contrasting with Joe Biden who apologised for using the same term in the past.
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