Stepping Down

Helen Thomas Retiring

In wake of controversial Israel comments.

After nearly 50 years in the press briefing room, Helen Thomas’ tenure as a White House press correspondent has come to an ignominious end: The 89-year-old resigned on Monday in the wake of her controversial comments about Israel, in which she said Israelis should “go home” to Poland, Germany, and the United States. Thomas, who was the first female member and president of the White House Correspondents Association said, "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.’’