Since news of anti-Muslim comments by Rep. Virgil Goode (R-VA) surfaced a few days ago, a number of public figures and groups have cried foul. But so far, we haven’t spotted a single Republican making a comment on the topic.
Democratic Rep. Bill Pascrell (NJ) called Goode’s remarks, made in a letter to several hundred constituents, “personally offensive.” Incoming House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-CA) also said she found Goode’s invection against Muslim immigration “offensive.” And two prominent organizations — one Islamic, the other Jewish — have both spoken out against Goode.
So I got to dialing. First I tried Rep. John Boehner (R-OH), incoming minority leader. His spokesman wasn’t available; I left a message and sent an email.
Next I rang Rep. Roy Blunt‘s (R-OH) office. He’s the House Republican whip. A spokeswoman promised to let me know if his office planned to make a statement.
I’ll keep calling. Surely, on this holiday eve, there is one Republican who wants to speak publicly for goodwill towards others, even if they’re Muslim.
Who Will Break GOP’s Silence on Goode Comments?