Helen Thomas, outspoken journalist for 67 years forced to resign after remarks about occupation of Palestine
Widely known as “the dean of the White House press corps,” Helen Thomas is the most senior White House correspondent and has covered every president since John F. Kennedy. Helen Thomas was known as the valiant journalist who grilled U.S. Presidents with tough questions for nearly 60 years, including her heated exchange with George W. Bush in 2006 (video).
Helen recently made remarks about the occupation of Palestine by Israelis and the fact that Israelis could go home (if they wander where to go after laving Gaza) to countries they came from like U.S., Poland and Germany. Thomas later issued a statement saying, "I deeply regret my comments I made last week regarding the Israelis and the Palestinians. They do not reflect my heart-felt belief that peace will come to the Middle East only when all parties recognize the need for mutual respect and tolerance. May that day come soon." But on Monday, Thomas decided to resign after mounting pressures by the pro-Israeli lobby.
The retirement of Thomas comes after nearly 60 years as White House correspondent for United Press International. She was known for asking tough, critical questions in the White House briefing room. She resigned from UPI in 2000 to become a columnist for Hearst. Helen Thomas was a trailblazer in the world of journalism. She was the first female officer of the National Press Club, first female member and president of the White House Correspondents’ Association, and the first female member of the Gridiron Club. She turns ninety this August (she is seen with Obama in the picture on her 89th Birthday in 2009).
Thomas has written several books including her best known work "Listen Up, Mr. President" which is one of the best historic references to the U.S. presidency for the past 60 years.
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