The Wilson Debate Begins: 'Move Forward' vs. 'Reprehensible Conduct'

Tuesday, September 15, 2009

BARACK OBAMA

Debate on the Joe Wilson resolution begins with House Majority Whip Steny Hoyer arguing that an apology to the House is necessary.

Hoyer is talking with the grave, soft tone of a eulogy. Of course, in promoting the idea that the problem is Wilson's lack of an apology to the House as a whole, he has to act as if Wilson's greater misdeed was against the other House members rather than President Obama.

Rep. Joe Wilson speaks, and does not apologize. He says, "It is clear far more important issues than what we're addressing right now. . . . President Obama said the time for games is over, and I agree with him. He graciously accepted my apology . . . It is time to move forward and get to work for the American people."

Rep. Jim Clyburn (D., S.C.) says the resolution is of "great importance to current and future members of this body. This is not about partisan politics or inappropirate comments. Thisis about the rules of this house and reprehensible conduct."

House Minority Leader John Boehner dismisses the resolution as "a partisan stunt."

UPDATE: Unsurprisingly, Clyburn disagrees: "This is not a partisan stunt. I do not participate in partisan stunts." Clyburn notes that Pete Stark apologized first to his colleagues and then to anyone who was offended and President Bush.

House Minority Whip Eric Cantor takes some time to point out that Wilson was right, or at the very least, the legislation leaves the door open to benefits for illegal immigrants. Points to Sen. Max Baucus's comment.

ANOTHER UPDATE: Rep. Mike Pence (R., Ind.) notes that 2 million jobs have been lost since the stimulus has passed, "and yet here we are, demanding an apology from a man who has already apologized."

ANOTHER UPDATE: Clyburn concludes by arguing what is at stake is setting a good example for children.

09/15 04:30 PM Share