James Clyburn "appalled" by Rand Paul's race comments

James Clyburn "appalled" by Rand Paul's race comments

By Robert "Rob" Redding Jr.

Editor & Publisher

May 20, 2010, 1:30 p.m. - House Majority Whip James Clyburn today said he is "appalled" by desegregation comments made by Rand Paul, the newly elected Republican nominee for Senate in Kentucky.

Paul, a Tea Party supporter, said yesterday on the Rachel Maddow show that he favors the Civil Rights Act but has concerns about telling private businesses how to handle race. Paul today tried to clarify his remarks to Maddow saying, "I unequivocally state that I will not support any efforts to repeal the Civil Rights Act of 1964."

Still, Clyburn said Paul needs to acknowledge that there were various sections of Civil Rights Act that were passed over several years, after 1964 to completely eradicate discrimination.

"He is parsing his words," the Democrat told MSNBC. "He is saying things and sending signs that I hope the vast majority of the people supporting him would reject.

"He ought to come clean with the American people...he should let us know exactly what he would like to do if he is elected."

Clyburn also attacked where Paul - who has said that he would not hold a membership to an organization which discriminates - held his victory party. Paul's victory party was held at the Bowling Green Country Club, which was founded in the early 1900's.

"I know what that means," Clyburn said.