Congresswoman Mary Miller issued an apology on Friday morning for her controversial comments Wednesday regarding former German dictator Adolf Hitler.
“I sincerely apologize for any harm my words caused and regret using a reference to one of the most evil dictators in history to illustrate the dangers that outside influences can have on our youth,” she explained. “This dark history should never be repeated and parents should be proactive to instill what is good, true, right, and noble into their children’s hearts and minds. While some are trying to intentionally twist my words to mean something antithetical to my beliefs, let me be clear: I’m passionately pro-Israel and I will always be a strong advocate and ally of the Jewish community. I’ve been in discussion with Jewish leaders across the country and am grateful to them for their kindness and forthrightness.”
Miller had been widely criticized by members of both the Democratic and Republican parties after her remarks, which occurred in front of the U.S. Capitol on Wednesday at a “Moms for America” rally. During her speech, Miller spoke about Turning Point USA and the conservative youth movement, saying that “Hitler was right on one thing” which referred to the youth movement.
Governor J.B. Pritzker called her comments “unfathomable and disgusting”, and U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth and Lieutenant Governor Juliana Stratton called on her to resign. Illinois GOP Chairman Tim Schneider also called on Miller to apologize, while Congressman Adam Kinzinger called her remarks “garbage.”
