This morning, during the open floor time allocated to House members to give the opportunity talk about issues important to them, Rep. Bobby Rush (D-Ill.) walked up to the podium and began delivering a speech about the need for a full investigation in the homicide of Trayvon Martin.
As he spoke, he pulled off his suit jacket to reveal a hoodie. He pulled the hood over his head, donned sunglasses, and was immediately ruled out of order by the presiding member, Rep. Gregg Harper (R-Miss.).
Rep. Harper eventually cut Rep. Rush's microphone and ordered the Sergeant at Arms to remove Rep. Rush, citing rules on "decorum."
Rep. Harper had fewer concerns about decorum a few years ago when Rep. Joe Wilson shouted out "you lie" during President Obama's Sept. 9, 2009 appearance before a joint session of Congress. Rep. Harper voted against a resolution rebuking Rep. Wilson.
To Rep. Harper, showing contempt and disrespect for the President of the United States is consistent with House "decorum." Showing respect to a homicide victim? Not so much.
