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Murtha Backtracks on Pa. Racism Jab

Democratic Rep. apologizes for dissing state's west

By Drew Nelles,  Newser Staff

Posted Oct 16, 2008 2:05 PM CDT

(Newser) – Rep. John Murtha apologized for saying yesterday that “racist” western Pennsylvanians wouldn’t vote for Barack Obama, CNN reports. “While we cannot deny that race is a factor in this election, I believe we've been able to look beyond race these past few months,” the Democrat said today in a statement. “I believe he will win both Pennsylvania and the White House.”

After yesterday saying that racism could hurt Barack Obama in the Keystone State, Democratic Rep. John Murtha said today, I believe he will win both Pennsylvania and the White House.
After yesterday saying that racism could hurt Barack Obama in the Keystone State, Democratic Rep. John Murtha said today, "I believe he will win both Pennsylvania and the White House."   (AP Photo)
Rep. John Murtha, with Hillary Clinton at a March appearance in his home state, said yesterday there's no question that western Pennsylvania is a racist area, which would cost Barack Obama.
Rep. John Murtha, with Hillary Clinton at a March appearance in his home state, said yesterday there's "no question that western Pennsylvania is a racist area," which would cost Barack Obama.   (AP Photo)
John Murtha speculated that West Pennsylvanians wouldn't vote for Barack Obama out of racism.
John Murtha speculated that West Pennsylvanians wouldn't vote for Barack Obama out of racism.   (AP Photo/Jae C. Hong)
John Murtha said today that voters are increasingly able to move beyond race when considering presidential candidates.
John Murtha said today that voters are increasingly able to move beyond race when considering presidential candidates.   (AP Photo)
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