Sussex GOP vice chair issues apology
The vice chair of Sussex County GOP has apologized for making anti-Semitic remarks in advance of a meeting to consider disciplinary action against her, set for Monday, Jan. 13.
Nelly Jordan issued an apology to members of the Sussex County GOP, saying she regrets using derogatory words for politicians of Jewish descent.
“After much reflection and thought, I now realize my words were inappropriate. I apologize for raising questions about a people, a faith, and a culture whose beliefs span a broad political spectrum,” she wrote. “No matter how heated our collective discourse becomes, it should never cross the line as I did.”
Jordan could not be reached for comment before the Cape Gazette's deadline. She concluded her apology by saying it is an honor and privilege to serve the Republican Party of Sussex County, and she hopes to continue to do so for many years.
Jordan sparked controversy after posting comments in December on her personal Facebook page that took aim at Jewish congressmen involved in the impeachment of President Donald Trump. She called them Jews “In Name Only” and referred to them as spiders catching flies and bugs.
Her post came to light after a Cape Gazette letter to the editor criticized Jordan on Dec. 31. The story has since gone viral and was picked up by national and international news media including the Washington Post, CNN and The New York Times.
Sussex County GOP Chairman Don Petitmermet said the group held a meeting Jan. 6 to discuss Jordan's comment, among other agenda items, but an executive committee meeting will be held to specifically discuss Jordan's comments and vote on potential disciplinary action. The meeting will be held at 6:30 p.m., Monday, Jan. 13, at the CHEER Center on Sand Hill Road in Georgetown. At that time, an executive committee that includes the chairman, secretary, treasurer and district chairs of each representative district will meet to handle charges of misconduct against Jordan. Jordan will be given an opportunity to respond, and the group is expected to discuss and vote on the charges. A simple majority will determine the outcome. The meeting is closed to the public, but will reopen at the conclusion of the vote.
Petitmermet said the Sussex County GOP received a copy of Jordan's apology, and it was circulated throughout the membership, including executive members who will decide her fate Jan. 13.
