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Furor Ignites After Ga. Rep. Blasts McCain

Civil rights icon Lewis backs off Wallace comparison, but not far

By Wesley Oliver, Newser Staff

Posted Oct 12, 2008 10:38 AM CDT

(Newser) – A day after igniting tensions in both campaigns, civil rights icon John Lewis sought to soften remarks that seemed to compare John McCain to segregationist George Wallace, Politico reports. “It was not my intention or desire to do so,” Lewis said last night. “My statement was a reminder to all Americans that toxic language can lead to destructive behavior.”

Lewis said he meant to suggest similarities between Wallace and McCain, who last August called Lewis one of “three wise men” he’d consult as president. But yesterday McCain blasted the Georgia congressman, calling his remarks “shocking and beyond the pale.” Barack Obama distanced himself from Lewis’ remarks, but also chided Sarah Palin for saying the Dem “pals around with terrorists.”

[Images (4)]

[Quotes (2)]

Rep. John Lewis, D-Ga., says he never meant to compare John McCain and segregationist George Wallace. (AP Photo/Ron Edmonds)

John McCain has lauded John Lewis' leadership in the nonviolent civil rights movement: "He can teach us all a lot about the meaning of courage and commitment to causes greater than our self-interest." (AP Photo, Evan Vucci, file)

Barack Obama's campaign distanced themselves from Lewis's Wallace language but took a shot at Palin for some of her tough words, including her charge that Obama "pals around with terrorists." (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)

John McCain called Lewis' accusation "shocking and beyond the pale," and he called on Barack Obama to "repudiate it." (AP Photo/Gerald Herbert)

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My statement was a reminder to all Americans that toxic language can lead to destructive behavior. I am glad that Sen. McCain has taken some steps to correct divisive speech at his rallies. - Rep. John Lewis, D-Ga.

I am saddened that John Lewis, a man I've always admired, would make such a brazen and baseless attack on my character and the character of the thousands of hardworking Americans who come to our events. - Sen. John McCain

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Furor Ignites After Ga. Rep. Blasts McCain