Trump defends use of 'Shylock' term at rally amid growing antisemitism claims
President Donald Trump defended his use of the term 'shylock' at a rally in Iowa, saying he was unaware it is considered antisemitic by some people.

President Donald Trump defended his use of the term 'Shylock' at a rally in Iowa amid claims it is antisemitic, saying he was unaware of its connotations, and acknowledged some people consider it insensitive despite having no inherent negative meaning to him. The term, referencing the Jewish character from Shakespeare's 'The Merchant of Venice', has been criticized by some as evoking anti-Semitic stereotypes. Trump said he only used the word because it appeared in a speech he was referencing, not intending to cause offense. However, critics argue that its use still perpetuates negative tropes about Jews.