Bush calls Lott comments ‘offensive’
Bush has gone from being noncommittal about Trent Lott to openly criticizing him. This is a clear signal from Bush that the damage is getting serious – and that Lott may be expendable.
“President Bush sharply rebuked incoming Senate Majority Leader Trent Lott for comments that some have called racist, saying any suggestion that segregation was acceptable is “offensive and it is wrong.”
Recent comments by Sen. Lott do not reflect the spirit of our country,” Bush said. “He has apologized and rightly so. Every day that our nation was segregated was a day our nation was unfaithful to our founding ideals.”
The president did not call for Lott to resign, but other conservative say Lott must offer a fuller explanation of his comments, despite his apology.
“On their face, the recent comments of Sen. Trent Lott are offensive, repugnant and inimical to what the Republican Party stands for,” said William Bennett.”