Why the heck would Republicans be interested in anything to do with Selma? I am disappointed that the Congressional Black Caucus and Rep. John Lewis would expect these Republicans to care about anything to do with the Civil Rights movement.
“I wish we had someone in the [Republican] leadership going,” Lewis told Politico in an article published Thursday. “President Bush is going to be there, but I think it would have been fitting and appropriate for them to make a trip.”
Lewis took part in the historic march alongside Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
In his criticism, he was joined by Rep. Marsha Fudge (D-OH) and the caucus chairman, Rep. G.K. Butterfield (D-NC), who was less gentle in his condemnation.
“It is very disappointing that not a single Republican leader sees the value in participating in this 50th commemoration of the signing of the Voting Rights Act. I had hoped that some of the leadership would attend, but apparently none of them will,” Butterfield told Politico.
“The Republicans always talk about trying to change their brand and be more appealing to minority folks and be in touch with the interests of African-Americans,” he added. “This is very disappointing.”
The article noted that Sen. Tim Scott (R-SC) and Rep. Martha Roby (R-AL) co-sponsored the event and encouraged at least 23 other GOPers to join them.
UPDATE: It was just reported that out of the entire GOP Congressional body, 1 token member showed up for the Selma events.
Disgraceful!
