It is true that “apology” is an overloaded term that can mean many things, depending on context.
You’ve stripped away the context (and therefore bent the word’s meaning here). The substance of what MAGA wanted was an expression of remorse. They thrive on instilling fear and shame in others. They loath details and nuance.
Lexical gymnastics don’t change the simple fact that Kimmel (1) did not express shame for what he said and instead (2) reiterated useful details and nuance. Both of these things oppose the MAGA movement, and that’s a good thing.
All of it is an apology. An apology is just an explanation given after the fact. He felt the need to explain his actions further.
To be a full and complete apology many people expect all three of these components, but not All three are essential to every apology.
You could argue that he didn’t do a full and complete apology but you can’t argue that he didn’t apologize.
It is true that “apology” is an overloaded term that can mean many things, depending on context.
You’ve stripped away the context (and therefore bent the word’s meaning here). The substance of what MAGA wanted was an expression of remorse. They thrive on instilling fear and shame in others. They loath details and nuance.
Lexical gymnastics don’t change the simple fact that Kimmel (1) did not express shame for what he said and instead (2) reiterated useful details and nuance. Both of these things oppose the MAGA movement, and that’s a good thing.