'You are welcome Colin Kaepernick': Congressman rips 49ers quarterback after terror suspect is caught

Rep. Lee Zeldin of New York delivered a creative take on Twitter after a man wanted in connection to terror attacks in New York and New Jersey over the weekend was apprehended by law enforcement Monday.

"Suspect in custody," the Long Island Republican posted. "You are welcome Colin Kaepernick."

Kaepernick, the 49ers quarterback, ignited national controversy when he began to sit, and later kneel, during the national anthem as a form of silently protesting the treatment of black Americans in the US.

Kaepernick was later joined by many players across the NFL. Recently, NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell expressed solidarity with the players.

But some, such as Sen. Ted Cruz of Texas and Republican nominee Donald Trump, have ripped Kaepernick for the decision. Multiple police agencies have also disavowed Kaepernick's and other NFL players' decisions to protest.

No terror group has taken responsibility for the New York and New Jersey bombings, which injured roughly 30 people, but left no one dead.

"This is that moment in time that reminds us exactly of why we are so blessed to have men and women in our military, law enforcement, and other first responders who would risk their lives and lay it all on the line to protect our freedoms and liberties," Zeldin said in a statement provided to Business Insider. "We wouldn't be able to live in the greatest nation in the world if not for these heroes who keep us safe, secure and free."

"This is why our flag is more than just colored cloth," he continued. "This is why I unapologetically love our country and our heroes who defend us. I'm insulted and disgusted when someone refuses to say the pledge or stand for the national anthem. That is their right of free speech and this is mine. I'm so grateful that we have our nation's protectors to do what they do and do it so well."