Clyburn: Neugebauer Should Apologize To House For 'Baby Killer' Shout

[cal04]

http://tpmdc.talkingpointsmemo.com/2010/03/top-dem-says-neugebauer-should-apologize-to-house-for-baby-killer-shout.php

House Majority Whip James Clyburn told reporters today that Rep. Randy Neugebauer (R-TX) should take to the House floor to apologize for shouting "baby killer" during debate Sunday night. Clyburn said the outburst - coupled with antics from protesters in the gallery above the chamber and Republican applause - is part of a growing pattern he worries will continue if it's not swiftly dealt with.

"That kind of stuff, it festers," Clyburn (D-SC) told TPMDC and several other reporters this afternoon following a brief signing ceremony for the health care bill. Clyburn said it was up to Minority Leader John Boehner (R-OH) to demand a formal apology to the House from the Neugebauer. "He needs to take control of his conference," Clyburn said.

Neugebauer issued a statement apologizing and suggesting he wasn't actually calling Rep. Bart Stupak, who was speaking at the time, a "baby killer." Stupak told reporters today he accepts Neugebauer's apology but also said members should keep House "decorum," according to AFP's Olivier Knox.

Clyburn cited Rep. Joe WIlson shouting "You Lie" last fall during President Obama's health care speech and the hecklers taken out of the House chamber from the visitors galleries yesterday, noting that Republicans were applauding the protests.