Trump’s Iceland ambassador pick Billy Long 'apologizes' for '52nd state’ joke
SPRINGFIELD, MISSOURI: President Trump’s pick for ambassador to Iceland, Billy Long, has apologized after a joke about the United States taking over the Arctic nation sparked outrage. The comment came amid US discussions about Greenland, and Long’s lighthearted remark was widely criticized in Iceland.
Billy Long apologizes after backlash over Iceland ‘52nd state’ joke
Long, a former Republican congressman from Missouri, said his comment was not serious. He joked that Iceland would become the 52nd state and that he would serve as its governor.
After the story gained attention, he clarified, “If anyone took offense to it, then I apologize.” He added that the remark occurred while joking with another official about US interest in Greenland.
Iceland officials condemn remarks as disrespectful to national sovereignty
The Icelandic government responded seriously, contacting the US embassy to verify Long’s remarks. While Long intended the comment as humorous, Icelandic leaders viewed it as a sign of disrespect toward their nation’s sovereignty.
Sigmar Guomundsson, a member of Iceland’s Parliament, said the jokes were “not particularly funny” and warned that such comments reflect growing US disregard for the independence of small countries. He emphasized that the situation is “extremely serious for a small country like Iceland.”
Iceland petition urges government to block Billy Long’s ambassador nomination
Over 3,500 Icelanders signed a petition urging their government to block Long’s ambassadorial appointment. The petition stated, “These words by Billy Long … may have been spoken in a half-hearted manner, but they are insulting to Iceland and Icelanders.”
Even singer Bjork weighed in, urging Greenlanders to maintain independence, saying colonialism has repeatedly caused her distress and warning against moving from “one cruel colonizer to another.”
The incident underscores the sensitivity surrounding US comments on small nations, especially amid discussions of territorial interests. Long’s apology attempts to smooth tensions, but Iceland’s reaction highlights the diplomatic stakes of seemingly offhand remarks.
