Wednesday, March 28, 2012

Republicans and House Decorum

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.