Barack Obama: “More needs to be done, but the work they have done so far is very encouraging.”

I think when we act on that basis, it doesn't always work out, but over time things do get better.

People need to “rediscover what’s the story we tell about how we’re going to live together, and see each other, and recognise each other, and disagree, and yet, still care for each other”.

The effort, he said, “should outrage all Americans, regardless of how they feel about Congresswoman Omar’s political views.”

The full weight of the federal government is being brought down on a law-abiding elected official because she has dared to criticize the president.