Trump’s ‘Shylock’ Remark at Iowa Rally Ignites Antisemitism Controversy

President Donald Trump stirred controversy at a recent Iowa rally by using the term "shylock" while celebrating the passage of his One Big Beautiful Bill Act, which eliminates estate taxes. The term, historically tied to the Jewish moneylender in Shakespeare’s The Merchant of Venice, is widely regarded as an antisemitic slur when used in certain contexts. Trump’s remark, made in reference to high-interest lenders, sparked immediate backlash online.

"No death tax, no estate tax, no borrowing from shylocks or bad people," Trump said, touting the bill’s financial relief. When pressed by a reporter about the term’s antisemitic connotations, he doubled down: "I’ve never heard it that way. To me, a shylock is just a tough moneylender."

The Anti-Defamation League (ADL) swiftly condemned the remark, calling it "extremely offensive and dangerous" for perpetuating a "centuries-old trope about Jews and greed." Rep. Jerry Nadler, D-N.Y., echoed the criticism on X, labeling Trump’s words a "blatantly antisemitic slur" that fuels hatred. Nadler accused Trump of exploiting antisemitism to curb free speech while failing to address the issue meaningfully.

Conservative commentator John Podhoretz, who is also Jewish, fired back at Nadler, referencing his endorsement of a controversial mayoral candidate and questioning his commitment to Jewish causes. Podhoretz noted Trump’s recent foreign policy moves, including actions against Iran’s nuclear program, as a counterpoint.

Trump has positioned himself as a staunch opponent of antisemitism, signing an executive order in January to combat antisemitic harassment on college campuses. His administration has also launched investigations into universities like Harvard and Columbia over alleged antisemitism. Yet, critics argue his rhetoric often undercuts these efforts.

The controversy recalls a 2014 incident when then-Vice President Joe Biden apologized for using the same term, admitting it was a "poor choice of words." Trump’s family ties to Judaism—through his daughter Ivanka, who converted in 2009, and son-in-law Jared Kushner—add another layer to the debate, though they haven’t quelled the criticism.

As the nation grapples with rising antisemitism, the incident underscores the weight of words in public discourse. Leaders must navigate a fine line between intent and impact, especially when history’s shadows loom large.