Say Anything Blog

During each session in the House of Representatives one lawmaker takes a turn at leading the rest in the pledge of allegiance. Today was Rep. Jim McDermott's turn and, in an apparent attempt to make a statement, he left a part out.

From The Associated Press:

In an unusual public reprimand, House Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi chastised Rep. Jim McDermott of Washington on Thursday for omitting the words "under God" while leading the House in reciting the Pledge of Allegiance.

"All House Democrats expect the Pledge of Allegiance to be delivered as it is written with the phrase 'under God' and with respect for the pledge," said Pelosi, adding that she summoned McDermott to her office on Wednesday to express her displeasure privately.

It is unusual for the leader of a political party to publicly chastise a member of their own rank-and-file, but Pelosi spoke bluntly. "What I am saying to you is, I completely disagree with that presentation. I have made my view and the view of the House Democrats known to Congressman McDermott, and I don't think you will ever see again a presentation on the floor that will exclude the words "under God," the California Democrat said.

He was summoned to Rep. Pelosi's office? That sounds suspiciously like a rowdy pupil being called to the principal's office.

It seems odd that the Democrats would get so upset by this. I thought that the Republicans were the religious party and that Democrats were all about getting prayer and "God" out of government.

But, then again, this is an election year. Lots of voters believe in God. The Catholic Church is already denying communion to Kerry. Democrats don't need a big old debate on religion now.

Or maybe they do.