As we discussed earlier, Rick Perry and Glenn Beck held a rally for their right-wing extremist base over the weekend. Video has surfaced from the event, with Perry and Rep. Leo Berman praising known hate-merchant Glenn Beck. First, State Representative Leo Berman gifted Glenn Beck with a flag that flew over our state capitol, presenting the flag "in honor of a true American hero, whose patriotism is an inspiration to all Americans in this great republic." Next, Rick Perry made the outspoken bigot an "honorary Texan."
Before taking the stage Saturday night, Perry praised Beck as a national leader with a powerful message about Washington and "out of control spending."
Let me be the umpteenth person to say that Glenn Beck in no way represents the best of Texas, or America. He is not a hero but a bigot, making millions off of violent, divisive rhetoric that only serves to sew disunity in our nation. Here are just some of his more notorious statements:
"This president I think has exposed himself over and over again as a guy who has a deep-seated hatred for white people or the white culture... This guy is, I believe, a racist." -- Glenn Beck on President Obama
"I'm thinking about killing Michael Moore, and I'm wondering if I could kill him myself, or if I would need to hire somebody to do it. ... No, I think I could. I think he could be looking me in the eye, you know, and I could just be choking the life out. Is this wrong?" -- Glenn Beck on what he would do for $50 million
"The only [Katrina victims] we're seeing on television are the scumbags." -- Glenn Beck on Hurricane Katrina victims
"I think there is a handful of people who hate America. Unfortunately for them, a lot of them are losing their homes in a forest fire today." -- Glenn Beck on California forest fire victims
I have been nervous about this interview with you because what I feel like saying is, 'Sir, prove to me that you are not working with our enemies. ... And I know you're not. I'm not accusing you of being an enemy, but that's the way I feel, and I think a lot of Americans will feel that way." -- Glenn Beck interviewing Rep. Keith Ellison, the first Muslim congressperson
Texas is facing serious challenges. Our state government needs to focus on solutions, rather than fan the flames of intolerance and divisiveness. Thank goodness Texas voters have a chance to end the Rick Perry Era this fall. Bill White cares more about fixing problems and achieving results than joking about secession as our state slips further down every national ranking of health and well-being.
Some folks say we shouldn't waste any more oxygen on Beck. They have a point, but when our state's Governor praises the maker of these statements, chooses to campaign publicly with him and praise his horrible brand of politics, people need to take note. That's not what Texas stands for. We need a governor who is inclusive, and focused on real solutions, not phony jokes about secession.
Texans, don't want your governor palling around with a noted hate-merchant? Do something about it. This November, vote for Bill White.
