President Donald Trump is facing backlash after using the term “Shylock” during a Fourth of July campaign rally—an expression widely regarded as anti-Semitic. The remark drew immediate criticism from Jewish organizations and political opponents, prompting a clarification from the White House.
Speaking to reporters the following day, President Trump defended his comment, saying he did not know the term carried an offensive historical meaning. He claimed he used it offhandedly, unaware of its anti-Jewish connotations stemming from its portrayal in Shakespeare’s The Merchant of Venice.
“I meant no disrespect,” Trump stated, dismissing the criticism as “political correctness gone mad” and insisting his record with the Jewish community speaks for itself.
Jewish advocacy groups swiftly condemned the remark, saying the term reinforces harmful stereotypes. Several political leaders have called on the president to formally apologize and urged greater sensitivity from national leadership.
Despite the controversy, Trump has not issued a retraction. Instead, he shifted focus to his administration’s policies on Israel and domestic religious protections, citing them as proof of his support for Jewish Americans.
The moment has added fuel to the ongoing debate over language, intent, and responsibility at the highest levels of government, particularly as the president intensifies his campaign messaging ahead of the November elections.