U.S. Rep. James P. Moran Jr. (D) quit his House leadership post today for making what he called "insensitive" remarks about Jews pushing the nation into war with Iraq.
Moran said he gave up his position as a regional Whip for the House Democrats "as a way to demonstrate acceptance of responsibility" for his controversial comments at a March 3 anti-war forum in Reston, when he said, "If it were not for the strong support of the Jewish community for this war with Iraq, we would not be doing this."
House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) said in a statement that she asked Moran to step down, although Moran advisers said he first offered to do so in a meeting with Pelosi on Thursday. Pelosi said Moran's "irresponsible remarks were a serious mistake."
"As I said earlier this week, his comments were not only inappropriate, they were offensive and have no place in the Democratic Party," Pelosi said.
So....while we may have freedom of speech, there are consequences to that same speech.
Does anyone really believe that when a person, any person, states their opinions that because some find those same statements inappropriate that's going to effect real change to those opinions? I don't. They'll just become more PC and not publically mention how the really feel....then we, the voting public won't ever know.
I think I'd rather be aware of our representatives opinions on all issues than to wonder if they feel strongly about something but are just being silent to be PC.
John Edwards and John Kerry didn't vote on this partial birth abortion bill. Is it because they don't want to take a stand on how they [really feel] since they hope to be our future President? Are they different from the Lott's and Moran's who are in office, only they're not speaking publically about where they stand?
[ edited by Linda_K on Mar 15, 2003 07:03 AM ]
Although I have argued FOR censorship of information for children in the past, and against you, and with severity, I will also draw a line in this case.
You’re right! your citizens do have aright to hear an alternate opinion.
I believe the phenomenon you have observed is called the McCarthy affect.
You see?? The other prolific posters don’t complain because they are prepared to hang him as an anti-Semite.
As I see it, either because they oppose his view, or they fear being the objects of the witch hunt.
The link above may show there is in fact conflict of interests, at the expense of your democracy.
