Roskam gives Netanyahu painting before controversial speech
U.S. Rep. Peter Roskam gave a painting of the Capitol dome made by his wife to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu before Netanyahu's speech to Congress Tuesday.
Elizabeth Roskam's painting shows the Capitol dome against an orange backdrop and is entitled “Dome of Consequence.” The gift is part of a greater package presented to Netanyahu by House Speaker John Boehner's office.
“Prime Minister Netanyahu shoulders the weight of heavy decisions every day to ensure the safety and security of his country, and I am honored to present him with this painting,” Roskam, a Wheaton Republican, said.
Netanyahu's speech today has become politically controversial after Boehner invited the prime minister to speak about nuclear talks with Iran that President Barack Obama is leading. Some leading Democrats skipped the speech, including U.S. Rep. Jan Schakowsky, an Evanston Democrat.
Elizabeth Roskam has made other paintings for world leaders, including South Korean President Park Geun-hye and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.