Black lawmakers applaud resolution of disapproval

Sept. 17, 2009, 6:35 p.m. - Congresswoman Barbara Lee (CA-9) released the following statement regarding a resolution disapproving of the conduct by Rep. Joe Wilson (SC-2) during the joint session of Congress.

“As members of the House of Representatives, it is our responsibility to set an example of civility in our deliberations," said Lee, who is the head of the Congressional Black Caucus. "We have a diversity of views and we do not always agree. But it is incumbent upon us to respect people and their office, even when we disagree with their views."

“Rep. Wilson’s outburst demonstrated a lack of civility and decorum. It set a poor example for those who have entrusted us with this office. It is worth pointing out that this type of behavior has been increasing in recent months throughout the country. We’ve seen it on display all summer in town halls and in the disrespectful tone reflected by some radio and television commentators. As members of Congress, we must set an example. We must set the standard for respectful dialogue and disagreement.

“Today’s resolution is an opportunity for us to come together and reject incivility. Let’s turn the page.”

Fudge applauds resolution of disapproval

Rep. Marcia L. Fudge (OH-11) also issued the following statement:

"The president of the United States of America, despite his or her political affiliation or ideology, deserves the respect of the American people, especially Members of Congress. It is a sad day when partisan differences encourage some to ignore the dignity and integrity of the legislative body.

"Not only did the Congressman disrespect the president, but he also dishonored the institution in which he serves. This unprecedented breach of decorum has tarnished Congress' reputation as a governing body ruled by civility.

"This discussion is not about free speech, but rather it is about the inappropriate behavior of a Member of Congress and respect for the rules governing the House of Representatives."

House rules on decorum prohibit personal references to the president. According to Section 370 of the House Rules Manual, members may not:

* call the president a "liar."
* call the president a "hypocrite."
* describe the president's veto of a bill as "cowardly."
* charge that the president has been "intellectually dishonest."
* refer to the president as "giving aid and comfort to the enemy."
* refer to alleged "sexual misconduct on the president's part."

Rep. Elijah Cummings (MD-07) inserted a statement into the Congressional Record including the following:

“Congressman Wilson’s outburst was a clear violation of the House rules," Cummings said. "How will we serve as a model of democracy -- around the globe -- and to our children here at home, if we cannot be the change we seek?

This episode has not stopped a plumber in Columbia, or a saleswoman in Baltimore, from lying awake at night, frightened beyond belief because in the blink of an eye, their jobs and their insurance could disappear.

We must not be distracted. Though Rep. Wilson was wrong, that wrong is nothing, compared to allowing one more American to suffer and die because they cannot afford the care they need to live.”