Barack Obama: “I am absolutely convinced that the best thing we can do is to set a clear timetable, tell the Iraqis, 'We are going to…”

The fact that any president, or any administration, is willing to engage in such transparent efforts to intimidate someone should outrage all Americans, regardless of how they feel about Congresswoman Omar’s political views.

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

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