In the past few days, a rash of disturbing threats have been reported against House Democrats who voted for health care reform on Sunday. At least 10 House Democrats have reported death threats or incidents of harassment or vandalism at their district offices over the past week, including images of nooses faxed to Reps. James Clyburn (R-SC) and Bart Stupak (D-MI). Fox and Friends discussed the story extensively this morning. Though they repeatedly denounced the violent threats, the co-hosts also broadcast e-mails suggesting that this is what Democrats should “expect” for passing health care reform:
KILMEADE: Over in Kentucky, J says, “while I don’t condone the threats in any way, what do they expect when they basically stole from the American people? What do they think 1776 was all about and wasn’t there some violence back then?” But true, but that was a revolution against an occupier.
CARLSON: Uh huh.
KILMEADE: This is a policy.
DOOCY: Meanwhile, in New Jersey, one of the original 13 colonies, Koz writes, “I don’t like violence and it is wrong. Having said that, why should Democrats be surprised? Bill Ayers of the Weather Underground bombed the Pentagon and now he is a respected speaker of the left. Why should Democrats expect anything differently?”
Watch it:
Unknown iFrame situation
During one segment, host Steve Doocy appeared to justify the threats as well. “So why are people angry?” asked Doocy rhetorically. “Well, maybe because they didn’t want this bill. We’re going to report, you’re going to decide,” he answered.
Update:
Media Matters has more on Fox’s coverage of the threats.