[cnn-photo-caption image= http://i2.cdn.turner.com/cnn/2008/images/10/21/art.murtha.gi.jpg caption="John Murtha wants citizens to vote on the issues."]
FROM CNN's Jack Cafferty:
Democratic Congressman John Murtha from Pennsylvania is challenging Republican Governor Sarah Palin for who can say the stupidest things on the campaign trail.
You may remember about a week ago Murtha called some of his constituents in western Pennsylvania "racist," and said many would not vote for Barack Obama. He later apologized. Rule of holes: When you're in one, stop digging. Murtha tried to further explain his comments yesterday. Big mistake. He told a Pittsburgh TV station that until five to 10 years ago the entire region was "redneck" and what he really meant was that it's hard for many of those people to change their beliefs. He said only certain segments of the population hold on to racist feelings...And may have a problem voting for a black candidate.
But Murtha said he's telling voters there to vote on the issues...Not to vote on whether a candidate is black or white. There is no indication that anyone has asked Murtha for his advice on anything.
Here’s my question to you: Will Democrat Rep. Murtha calling some people in Pennsylvania “redneck” and “racist” hurt Barack Obama?
Interested to know which ones made it on air?
Jim writes:
Jack, will race-baiting, calling Obama a socialist or a pal of terrorists help McCain? Polls show that the negative stuff is not working, no matter who talks trash.
Bonnie from Pennsylvania writes:
I live in Western Pennsylvania. Jack Murtha's comments will not hurt Barack Obama. My vote still goes for Obama. I'll still vote for Murtha even though he put his foot in his mouth. He's a good representative. Most of the people I know are looking at the issues not the race card.
Tim from Texas writes:
Hi Jack. I’m a redneck, born and bred in Beaver Falls, Pennsylvania, and I’m votin’ Obama on Election Day. I may be a redneck, but I’m not stupid.
Antoine writes:
With 14 Days left in this election and Barack up by 9 points, people should not mess it up for him. People will choose for themselves whether to vote for Barack or not. So Murtha, please shut your mouth and let the people decide.
Ryan from Galesburg, Illinois writes:
Jack, these comments won't hurt Obama because he didn't make them. The only folks that might be offended are the actual racists, who aren't voting for Obama in any case.
L. from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania writes:
Western Pennsylvania guys are not technically rednecks, since they would actually have to leave their beer at the bar and go out into the sun to achieve such status.
John writes:
Jack, take it easy on John. I, too, have the same problem with saying the wrong thing. It isn't planned; it just happens and you don't realize it for a couple of days.