Representative Yoho Apologizes for "Abrupt" Conversation with Representative Ocasio-Cortez, Denies Name-Calling

Florida Republican Ted Yoho takes to the House floor to apologize for the "abrupt manner" of the conversation he had on the steps of the U.S. Capitol with New York Democratic Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, in which he allegedly used expletives to describe her. The congressman says that even though the two disagree on policy we should not be disrespectful. However, he says that "the offensive name-calling words attributed to me by the press were never spoken to my colleagues and if they were construed that way, I apologize for their misunderstanding...I cannot apologize for my passion." Following his remarks House Majority Leader Steny Hoyer responds, saying, "He ought to remember and acknowledge that the person to whom he spoke so inappropriately was one of the strongest fighters in this Congress for those with the least...the apology was appropriate. I hope that Mr. Yoho feels that apology sincerely." close