Larsen Expresses Disapproval of Rep. Joe Wilson’s Conduct
For Immediate Release
Contact: Amanda Mahnke
(202) 225-2605
September 15, 2009
Washington, D.C. — U.S. Representative Rick Larsen (WA-02) released the following statement today after the House passed a resolution disapproving of the conduct by Rep. Joe Wilson (SC – 02) during the joint session of Congress. The resolution passed by a vote of 240 to 179.
“Today's vote to express disapproval of Rep. Joe Wilson’s conduct is not about his speech; it is about behavior that is not allowed on the floor of the House of Representatives. In no circumstance should any member, Democrat or Republican, be allowed to engage in such behavior.
“Rep. Joe Wilson’s outburst on the floor of the House of Representatives was both unacceptable and a breach of House decorum.
“The House of Representatives has rules of civility and decency that have sustained basic respect for over 200 years. As decent as it was that Rep. Joe Wilson apologized to the president, that isn't enough. That was an apology given and accepted between two people.
“Now, Rep. Joe Wilson, as a member of the House, must be accountable to the institution in which he serves. He must apologize to the House for his conduct or face admonishment.
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