Admonishing Anti-Democratic Statements

Floor Speech

Mr. PEARCE. Mr. Speaker, at a constituent event in Inglewood, California, on August 21, 2011, the Congresswoman who represents that area made several shocking and egregious statements that slander the good work a dedicated group of Americans are trying to achieve for our country. Perhaps most disturbing was her statement that, ``As far as I'm concerned the Tea Party can go straight to hell. And ..... and, I intend to help them get there.'' These words do nothing to unite Americans and only fan the flames that incite division. Earlier in August, following the highly charged debt limit discussions, with words worsening the political divide, the Vice President declared that the Tea Party had ``acted like terrorists.'' These attacks are an assault on democracy. Any action which ignores deep-seated concerns, or attempts to extinguish the voices of millions of Americans damages the democratic process. The Tea Party is united in common concern for the future and the well-being of generations to come. They are not, as one Congressman from Pennsylvania described, a ``small group of terrorists.'' These are people who care deeply about the path our country is on and are working through the issues. They are present at parades, marches and rallies. They are gathering in meeting halls, restaurants, and family rooms to discuss their goals for our nation's future. Words that dismiss the Tea Party's shared belief that government can do better by the people of this country only further divide us. We have only our voices to change the hearts and minds of elected officials. Those of us entrusted by the people to support and defend the Constitution of the United States must never work to extinguish the light of democracy or the avenue of free speech. To limit the excitement and drive of a united group grows dejection; a certain foe of democracy. It casts a web of doubt over the activities of the Congress and threatens to harm the creation of good public policy. I will defend the right of any man, woman, or child to speak their truth and share their concerns. Just as all Americans regardless of race or gender, creed or religion, ideals or personal conviction, Tea Party members deserve to have their voices heard.

Source