Reader comments
Buttars skips NAACP meeting
160 comments | Read story
Listen | 12:54 a.m. Feb. 20, 2008
Buttars isn't listening to anyone, so this thing needs to be taken to the
Senate President. That bone head needs to take some responsiblity for this
problem, or it will become his problem.
Oh please | 1:18 a.m. Feb. 20, 2008
"The meeting's intent was to discuss Williams' call for Buttars
resignation."
No, the meeting's intent was to continue this spectacle in as public a way as is possible.
The NAACP does not represent the people of Utah. If it wants him out of office, then it should campaign against him in the next election. Until then, step back and let Utahans be the judge of who is and who is not capable of participating in state government. Let the voters - not a self-righteous, racist organization like the NAACP, whose only purpose is to thrive off of nonsense such as this - be the decision makers.
Once again, shame on the Deseret News for perpetuating this nonsense. I guess it's a slow news season, and Utah papers desperately need a scandal - even if they have to practically invent it.
No, the meeting's intent was to continue this spectacle in as public a way as is possible.
The NAACP does not represent the people of Utah. If it wants him out of office, then it should campaign against him in the next election. Until then, step back and let Utahans be the judge of who is and who is not capable of participating in state government. Let the voters - not a self-righteous, racist organization like the NAACP, whose only purpose is to thrive off of nonsense such as this - be the decision makers.
Once again, shame on the Deseret News for perpetuating this nonsense. I guess it's a slow news season, and Utah papers desperately need a scandal - even if they have to practically invent it.
Comments continue below
anon | 1:55 a.m. Feb. 20, 2008
So are you telling me You represent the people of Utah? A bit presumptuous
wouldn't you say?
Personally I think it is worth every bit of coverage it receives. Buttars is an embarrassment and the more people know about it the better.
By the way, calling the NAACP racist is something racist people do.
Personally I think it is worth every bit of coverage it receives. Buttars is an embarrassment and the more people know about it the better.
By the way, calling the NAACP racist is something racist people do.
? | 2:20 a.m. Feb. 20, 2008
how is the NAACP racist? if the AG is a member i think they'll accept you
no matter what. unless your name is butters
Janey | 2:17 a.m. Feb. 20, 2008
Dear "Oh Please," are you saying that Janetta Williams does not have
the right to make a strong statement re Buttar's callous and stupid remark?
She is head honcho for NAACP and you want her to sit in the back of the bus and
shut up? This is a fine, decent, educated and dedicated woman. Ms. Williams is
right to see the lynch remark Mr, Bigotbuttar made as offensive. So, "Oh
Please," did you study American history in school? I did and it was
appalling some things that happened. Buttars says he doesn't know what to
say to "those" people. Why is it so hard to go to the meeting, sit
among them and show them what a nice guy he is...oh, that's right, he is
not a nice guy. Here's a good campaign theme: "I can believe
it's not Buttars."
Ex West Jordaner | 3:09 a.m. Feb. 20, 2008
Unfortunately anon, Oh Please does represent a number of people in this
state.
Then there are the rest of us who are tired of baby Buttars' annual mean-spirited, hate-filled agenda & legislation targeting anyone not up to his narrow- minded view of 'traditional moral values'.
His words have finally incensed enough of us to keep his dark ugly soul in the limelight until it fades from public life altogether.
As bad as his remarks are, they pale in comparison to his monstrous actions.
Then there are the rest of us who are tired of baby Buttars' annual mean-spirited, hate-filled agenda & legislation targeting anyone not up to his narrow- minded view of 'traditional moral values'.
His words have finally incensed enough of us to keep his dark ugly soul in the limelight until it fades from public life altogether.
As bad as his remarks are, they pale in comparison to his monstrous actions.
Of course | 3:58 a.m. Feb. 20, 2008
"By the way, calling the NAACP racist is something racist people
do"
The standard response from the left wing any time one of their grievance mongering groups (NAACP, ACLU) is actually challenged, instead of the public just rolling over like they are expected to do.
The standard response from the left wing any time one of their grievance mongering groups (NAACP, ACLU) is actually challenged, instead of the public just rolling over like they are expected to do.
Mom in MO | 5:01 a.m. Feb. 20, 2008
His original comment was shocking. He apologized. Charging that it is
insulting to use the word "lynch mob" is plain ridiculous. How
sensitive is the NAACP going to be? Sen. Buttars is right...they didn't
accept his first apology, they won't accept anything else. And the first
apology was offered "in public", it is in the record. That being
said, I wouldn't be running for re-election if I were in his shoes. I
don't think he's making it easier for the people of the State to come
to agreement. One controvesy after another leaves a leader less effective.
BBKing | 5:11 a.m. Feb. 20, 2008
Holy cow has this issue spiraled out of control!
And the calling of racist back and forth is likely the biggest culprit. I think Mark Shurtleff is right on the money in that what Sen Buttars said was not meant to be racist, but it offended part of the American family. Buttars does need to be, not a great Senator, but a man and apologize publicly to this group.
And while the NAACP does not represent the entire Utah population, and for that matter, not even the entire African-American population, they are a force Sen Buttars needs to work with.
As for the NAACP being racist, they have an agenda though this does not make them racist. The fact that their agenda includes race related issues will always put people on edge. Clearly double standards abound in America.
Growing up I used the N word only a few times. Yet all of the guys I played football and basketball with used it in about every other sentence. They of course were Aftican-American and that is just how it is. My use was really my personal discovery that it was not OK for a white boy to use that word.
And the calling of racist back and forth is likely the biggest culprit. I think Mark Shurtleff is right on the money in that what Sen Buttars said was not meant to be racist, but it offended part of the American family. Buttars does need to be, not a great Senator, but a man and apologize publicly to this group.
And while the NAACP does not represent the entire Utah population, and for that matter, not even the entire African-American population, they are a force Sen Buttars needs to work with.
As for the NAACP being racist, they have an agenda though this does not make them racist. The fact that their agenda includes race related issues will always put people on edge. Clearly double standards abound in America.
Growing up I used the N word only a few times. Yet all of the guys I played football and basketball with used it in about every other sentence. They of course were Aftican-American and that is just how it is. My use was really my personal discovery that it was not OK for a white boy to use that word.
Bill | 5:22 a.m. Feb. 20, 2008
Keep talking, Buttars. The more you do, the more you clearly show the public
what many of us have known for years.
russ | 5:48 a.m. Feb. 20, 2008
So the elected leader whimped out, eh? Oh Utah...can't the guy even walk
into a lighted room?
He is such an embarassment.
PS -- calling the NAACP racist is beyond my understanding of the world. Outside of Utah the NAACP is considered to be a very moderate organization, still striving to make sure America does not go back on its word toward equality and freedom for all. Many white Americans belong to it. Many brown Americans belong to it. Good grief.
He is such an embarassment.
PS -- calling the NAACP racist is beyond my understanding of the world. Outside of Utah the NAACP is considered to be a very moderate organization, still striving to make sure America does not go back on its word toward equality and freedom for all. Many white Americans belong to it. Many brown Americans belong to it. Good grief.
Carl | 6:10 a.m. Feb. 20, 2008
Bonehead of the year, again.
Anonymous | 6:16 a.m. Feb. 20, 2008
I agree 100% of the comment of Oh Please. This person hit it right on the mark.
toast is buttarred | 6:33 a.m. Feb. 20, 2008
Mr. Buttars... you need some basic education. Your use of the racially tinged
term "lynch mob" and your derogeratory use of the word "black
baby" show your own serious ignorance. I suggest that you resign NOW. Let
the republicans appoint an educated, thoughtful representative. Even your
explanation is oozing with ignorance... I apologize to people who took offense?
give me a break... you apologized for nothing. It wasn't those of us who
took offense that are the problem. It is you and your small-minded, hateful,
racist words and actions. Do the right thing and step aside and get a basic
college education (apparently outside of Utah).
Utah Educator | 6:46 a.m. Feb. 20, 2008
Lynching is and has always been a racially charged hate crime where a black man
(or woman) was brutally murdered or beaten. Some were dragged to death. Others
were burned. Many were hung. These were killed having been accused of
something, or just in the way of those who had been accused.
If you want something truly ugly, one only needs to look in the Utah history books to see the prevalence of the KKK in Utah. My friend growing up in WJ was constantly harassed and received death threats because they were the closest non-whites to the KKK stronghold in Riverton.
While I viewed Buttars 'black' reference a poor choice of adjectives (based on calling the kettle black), he is showing himself to be of even poorer quality speaking without thought while being scrutinized further. It would be best if he retires without seeking re-election. The bloodbath from the Voucher mess is already poised to reshape Utah politics and his bold declaration that he seeks to be re-elected only ensures one less Republican will be in the legislature next year.
If you want something truly ugly, one only needs to look in the Utah history books to see the prevalence of the KKK in Utah. My friend growing up in WJ was constantly harassed and received death threats because they were the closest non-whites to the KKK stronghold in Riverton.
While I viewed Buttars 'black' reference a poor choice of adjectives (based on calling the kettle black), he is showing himself to be of even poorer quality speaking without thought while being scrutinized further. It would be best if he retires without seeking re-election. The bloodbath from the Voucher mess is already poised to reshape Utah politics and his bold declaration that he seeks to be re-elected only ensures one less Republican will be in the legislature next year.
buttarred bread | 6:41 a.m. Feb. 20, 2008
resign....
Mark Shurtleff doesn't think what Buttars said was racist? What? What does he think it is?
Buttars you didn't just offend the African-American community... you offended me.... a white, priviledged male who takes offense when ignorant white males play victim to their own lack of awareness.
resign
Mark Shurtleff doesn't think what Buttars said was racist? What? What does he think it is?
Buttars you didn't just offend the African-American community... you offended me.... a white, priviledged male who takes offense when ignorant white males play victim to their own lack of awareness.
resign
Butters offended in public. | 6:55 a.m. Feb. 20, 2008
He should atone in public. He should make deep and profound apology, in public,
directly to the people he offended (not just the curosry "oops" he
uttered on the floor of the Senate). He should make deep and profund
acknowledcgement of how, and just how badly, he screwed up. He should then seal
his atonement by immediately resiging from the Senate and never again seeking
public office. He should also make it plan and clear to his church authorities
that he does not have the sensitivity necessary to serve as a missionary
anywhere.
This guy has some big problems, and he really needs to get a clue. He's an embarrassment, both to Utahns and to all Latter-day Saints. He REALLY needs to get a clue.
This guy has some big problems, and he really needs to get a clue. He's an embarrassment, both to Utahns and to all Latter-day Saints. He REALLY needs to get a clue.
Jan | 6:55 a.m. Feb. 20, 2008
The 'black baby' comment was DEFINITELY racist. To say that using the
words 'lynch mob' is racist is beyond ridiculous. The word
'lynch' mean "to put to death (as by hanging) by mob action
without legal sanction". It's not a term or an action specific to any
one race. That aside, Buttars is a mean-spirited, bigoted, narrow-minded
embarrassment that should have been forcded to step down years ago. Maybe this
latest debacle will open enough eyes that we'll finally be rid of him and
his scary agenda.
Liberal larry | 7:05 a.m. Feb. 20, 2008
I honestly don't think that Mr. Buttars is a racist. Like a lot of
conservatives, he lives in a sheltered world of church, yes men, and KSL talk
radio. The more he talks, the more it is clear that he is so emeshed in this
right wing, alternate, universe that he doesn't have a clue about the lives
of those outside his little world.
Jazz Fan | 7:15 a.m. Feb. 20, 2008
The NAACP needs to entertain the possibility that Sen. Buttras might have been
listening to too much Gangst Rap Mucic. This could explain a lot.
arc | 7:20 a.m. Feb. 20, 2008
Butters didn't mean to offend. He didn't think. But he did offend
many. He needs to apologize for making an offensive remark. He really
hasn't done that and should have come to the meeting and publicly apologize
again.
MLT | 7:20 a.m. Feb. 20, 2008
They fired Don Imus which I thought was silly since his job is to offend
everyone since he is a shock jock. I wanted to give this man the benefit of the
doubt and understand the context of the statement. I believe that there is no
room for someone like him in any authority role. I cannot believe there is any
question that this man should resign.
Also Anon | 7:28 a.m. Feb. 20, 2008
I live in Buttar's district. I have never voted for him because he's
part of the good-ole-boy, behind-closed-doors network that runs this state.
However, now, with all this hate mongering going on, I will be forced to vote
for him - because if he loses, it will appear that the district voters are
agreeing with all of this stupidity. The term "baby" was referring to
a bill, not a bundle of joy. It is very common to call something a
"baby" - my truck in mine. And, like it or not, to be
"dark" has always implied "bad" or "a lack of
light/truth/good." It always will. If we give into this bull, then the
next thing "they" will do is start picketing Star Wars (the dark/light
side of the force) or Harry Potter (the Dark Arts - hello) as racist propoganda.
Groups of people have their own agendas - the NAACP and the gays are blowing
this way out of proportion to promote their agendas - because Buttars is a nasty
thorn in their side. But, please, don't force me to vote for him just to
avoid promoting their agendas.
Just a Guy | 7:29 a.m. Feb. 20, 2008
American brought this whole plague on themselves a few hundred years ago with
the slave trade!!!! Go Buttars...I'd vote for ya!!!
Where to Start --Cmon Utahns!!! | 7:24 a.m. Feb. 20, 2008
He had a chance to meet with the NAACP to mend fences, but found out it was
going to be difficult, so didn't -- Powerful...
When the going get's tough, don't show up.
The NAACP does look out for the African Americans, but creating a culture in Utah where my 6 and 11 year old daughters are not subjected to racism is good for the whole culture of society.
The AARP looks out for retired people, are they bigoted? No, they make our culture one that is aware of the elderly. When our government does not protect the rights of the minorities, individual action groups are welcome.
Lynching -- Look it up in the dictionary and google it, it does have a racial meaning.
I taught highschool at a school that was 40% African American in Rialto CA. Some students put small "nooses" on their backpacks. It was not a "Goth" or "Death" thing. Rather, an African American and an American of European Descent were involed in a fight, and the African American student got the best of it. The students put out the nooses and hung them from trees as a message.
Sorry, but is Buttars a functioning IDIOT?
When the going get's tough, don't show up.
The NAACP does look out for the African Americans, but creating a culture in Utah where my 6 and 11 year old daughters are not subjected to racism is good for the whole culture of society.
The AARP looks out for retired people, are they bigoted? No, they make our culture one that is aware of the elderly. When our government does not protect the rights of the minorities, individual action groups are welcome.
Lynching -- Look it up in the dictionary and google it, it does have a racial meaning.
I taught highschool at a school that was 40% African American in Rialto CA. Some students put small "nooses" on their backpacks. It was not a "Goth" or "Death" thing. Rather, an African American and an American of European Descent were involed in a fight, and the African American student got the best of it. The students put out the nooses and hung them from trees as a message.
Sorry, but is Buttars a functioning IDIOT?
Sally Wyne | 7:25 a.m. Feb. 20, 2008
Right or wrong the time has come for Butttars to resign. If for nothing else
than to allow the legislature to return to the business of the people. Take the
high road Chris.
Equality for All | 7:42 a.m. Feb. 20, 2008
When the elected official is black the NAACP will fight to protect rights of the
electorate. They are willing to protect racist 1st amendment rights for blacks
but for others they cry �Racism�. The
NAACP pursuit in this case is more an example of their hypocrisy and racism.
To ask non-blacks to resign over
�perceived� racism when you are
unwilling to apply the same standard for black
�Racists� is both hypocracy and
�Racist�.
In an era when a leading presidential candidate is black, it�s time to admit this is not 1964. In 1964 it might be argued there was a rational reason to override the rights of an electorate. Today is 2008, not 1964. It is time to enforce the Constitutional right to be offensive for what ever reason. It is time to go back to Madison's version of the speech and press clauses, introduced in the House of Representatives on June 8, 1789, which provided: ''The people shall not be deprived or abridged of their right to speak, to write, or to publish their sentiments;� especially when those sentiments are inarticulately expressed and may not represent the real heart of the offender.
In an era when a leading presidential candidate is black, it�s time to admit this is not 1964. In 1964 it might be argued there was a rational reason to override the rights of an electorate. Today is 2008, not 1964. It is time to enforce the Constitutional right to be offensive for what ever reason. It is time to go back to Madison's version of the speech and press clauses, introduced in the House of Representatives on June 8, 1789, which provided: ''The people shall not be deprived or abridged of their right to speak, to write, or to publish their sentiments;� especially when those sentiments are inarticulately expressed and may not represent the real heart of the offender.
Buttars | 7:51 a.m. Feb. 20, 2008
This guy must be setting up a smokescreen.
He can't be this dense.
He can't be this dense.
Ridgely | 7:52 a.m. Feb. 20, 2008
Buttars bows out of yesterdays NAACP meeting because it was too public and there
was media present? Kinda interesting considering almost every local TV channel
had a one-on-one interview with Buttars last night. Apparently he has no time to
apologise to the people he actually offended, but plenty of time to promote his
"Staged Contrition Tour" for his re-election campaign. What a diva!
Huh? | 7:52 a.m. Feb. 20, 2008
I live outside Utah. I am not a "right wing conservative." I
don't even like President Bush's (or Senator Buttars') policies.
I am certainly not racist or bigoted in any way, and have done substantial work
in improving race relations. That being said, the NAACP is racist. They
actively promote an agenda that does not strive for actual equality of
opportunity, but for the advancement of their constituents regardless of the
merits of a given situation. Examples of this are legion. The NAACP is not a
moderate organization (much less a "very" moderate one, whatever that
means). And it's not just Utah that thinks so. See a recent poll at the
Indianapolis Star webpage -- 79% of respondents think the NAACP is a racist
organization.
Moreover, they are extremely partisan, so it's no surprise they're calling for a Republican's head. Buttars seems like a flawed figure, but didn't he apologize? And aren't we all flawed too in some way or another?
I look forward to the day when it's just the National Association for the Advancement of People. Until then...
Moreover, they are extremely partisan, so it's no surprise they're calling for a Republican's head. Buttars seems like a flawed figure, but didn't he apologize? And aren't we all flawed too in some way or another?
I look forward to the day when it's just the National Association for the Advancement of People. Until then...
Bubba | 7:57 a.m. Feb. 20, 2008
It Seams Like Mr Lewis Is Out On A Witch Hunt ? He Needs To Get a Grip On Life
And Cool Down A Bit ..As For Mr Buttras He Needs To Think Before Running Off At
The Mouth And Learn To Keep HIs Opinions To Himself also COOL DOWN .
Left wing? | 8:03 a.m. Feb. 20, 2008
Why do you have to be "left wing" to recognize racism?
Such statements are telling, and reflect back on the "right wing".
"Oh Please" and his brother "Of course" just made FREUDIAN SLIPS as big as Buttars "black baby" comment.
Keep it up, guys. You're making the rest of us look very reasonable in our understanding.
Such statements are telling, and reflect back on the "right wing".
"Oh Please" and his brother "Of course" just made FREUDIAN SLIPS as big as Buttars "black baby" comment.
Keep it up, guys. You're making the rest of us look very reasonable in our understanding.
1954 | 8:04 a.m. Feb. 20, 2008
That is when Utah was the LAST state to recognize and allow the Native Americans
as viable citizens the vote! That is never taught in high school , one either
has to wait until college or do the outside research to get to the truth. To
allow this man to fuel the flame of racism in the least is a big step back to
the ignorance of any and all people. We have many people of all colors laying
down there lives for a better country of tommorrow. So don't try to buttar
me up and insult my intelligence, we won't get fooled again!
Aaron | 8:07 a.m. Feb. 20, 2008
Buttars needs to step down. He needs to put his pride aside and do what's
best for Utah. If he does not, the people of West Jordan must recognize that
someone else needs to take his place.
With that being said, I find it interesting that there were no eyebrows raised when Edward Lewis Jr used the term "old white guy" in a derogitory sense, referring to our state legislature. When he is on TV calling for racial justice, he loses credibility by obvious signs a hypocrisy. Kudos to KTVX Channel 4 for pointing that out.
The NAACP would serve themselves well if they had a spokesperson that thought before he/she spoke. But isn't that why Buttars is in trouble?
I call for Edward Lewis Jr's resignation. His obvious display of racism is not conducive to an atmosphere that fosters tolerance.
With that being said, I find it interesting that there were no eyebrows raised when Edward Lewis Jr used the term "old white guy" in a derogitory sense, referring to our state legislature. When he is on TV calling for racial justice, he loses credibility by obvious signs a hypocrisy. Kudos to KTVX Channel 4 for pointing that out.
The NAACP would serve themselves well if they had a spokesperson that thought before he/she spoke. But isn't that why Buttars is in trouble?
I call for Edward Lewis Jr's resignation. His obvious display of racism is not conducive to an atmosphere that fosters tolerance.
LaMark nWignall | 8:15 a.m. Feb. 20, 2008
Way to go Senator. We're with you all the way!
watchingfromafar | 8:15 a.m. Feb. 20, 2008
From what I can see the Utah NAACP doesn't care about apologies but that
they get more than their fair share which is common with the NAACP across
America. I live in a community that has a large African/American contingent
(almost 50%) and if the NAACP had their way here corruption would be the norm as
they always protect and excuse and bless their own members. I'd love to
see them come out after a black police officer after they've done something
wrong but they always protect them and accuse the white officer of racism. When
they (NAACP) play fairly across the board then things will be fair across the
board. I don't care about the past, let's create a future without
hate, without crime, without racism and then the past will be forgotten,
forgiven and not REPEATED!
Wow | 8:18 a.m. Feb. 20, 2008
Take one small snip out of a speech and turn it into a racial issue, then call
for the guy's resignation. If you had heard the entire statement, it would
be clear that Buttars wasn't referring to a baby of African descent.
But no, we'll take two seconds out of context and try to string him up for it.
The sad thing is that this is still the United States of America. While personally I feel racism is a vile thing, doesn't Buttars have the right to be such (I'm not saying he is)? Isn't funny that the NAACP is willing to shut down this guy and try to get him kicked out of his position for saying the word 'black' in what they view as the wrong context?
Are we not a land where you can have free speech anymore? I know that racist remarks are hurtful, and reflect the ignorance of those who say them, but don't they still have the right to say them? People have the fundamental right to free speech.
As for Buttars, I don't think he meant that African American babies were ugly or anything else. Mountains out of ant hills.
But no, we'll take two seconds out of context and try to string him up for it.
The sad thing is that this is still the United States of America. While personally I feel racism is a vile thing, doesn't Buttars have the right to be such (I'm not saying he is)? Isn't funny that the NAACP is willing to shut down this guy and try to get him kicked out of his position for saying the word 'black' in what they view as the wrong context?
Are we not a land where you can have free speech anymore? I know that racist remarks are hurtful, and reflect the ignorance of those who say them, but don't they still have the right to say them? People have the fundamental right to free speech.
As for Buttars, I don't think he meant that African American babies were ugly or anything else. Mountains out of ant hills.
re Aaron | 8:07 a.m. | 8:35 a.m. Feb. 20, 2008
Aaron, Senate Bills that "are" bad are not, in reality, little Black
Ugly Babies.
Many of our State Senators are, in reality, "Old White Guys". Many are 5'7, and many are 6'2. Many wear ties and many are women. Saying the truth is not negative.
It's not racist to call something what it is.
If Mr. Buttars was talking about a African American Baby, and said "This is an African American Baby", there would be no outcry.
However, he used it as a Perjorative adjective describing a Senate Bill, and that is wrong, even to this 50 year old conservative Republican, LDS, Temple worthy, married to the same woman for 21 years, with an MA from BYU.
I am not liberal, but I am JUST, and that's all we are looking for.
I understand this is a difficult concept to wrap our Utah brains around, but what say we try to understand it.
How about we catch up with the rest of the country on this one.
Many of our State Senators are, in reality, "Old White Guys". Many are 5'7, and many are 6'2. Many wear ties and many are women. Saying the truth is not negative.
It's not racist to call something what it is.
If Mr. Buttars was talking about a African American Baby, and said "This is an African American Baby", there would be no outcry.
However, he used it as a Perjorative adjective describing a Senate Bill, and that is wrong, even to this 50 year old conservative Republican, LDS, Temple worthy, married to the same woman for 21 years, with an MA from BYU.
I am not liberal, but I am JUST, and that's all we are looking for.
I understand this is a difficult concept to wrap our Utah brains around, but what say we try to understand it.
How about we catch up with the rest of the country on this one.
Unbelievable! | 8:29 a.m. Feb. 20, 2008
Here Butter's adamantly shows his total lack of caring and over bloated
self-importance by ignoring the very group of people he so offended.
The guy really needs to be ejected from office at the primary polls in May.
Where is that conservative contender willing to be placed on the Republican primary polls, who will get out and get the vote and the support of the Eagle Forum (and other neo-Con organizations) and get voted in over Butters?
Let me say that if Butter's gets away with this it will send a resounding message to both Utah's conservative and moderates and the nation at large that there is something terribly broken in the Utah Republican party's ethics and moral integrity.
Butter's is like a malignant cancer of the landscape of Utah Republican party politics... and he'll bring a sort of death to an aspect of the party that the party cannot afford to lose.
Republicans of Utah... GET REAL!
The guy really needs to be ejected from office at the primary polls in May.
Where is that conservative contender willing to be placed on the Republican primary polls, who will get out and get the vote and the support of the Eagle Forum (and other neo-Con organizations) and get voted in over Butters?
Let me say that if Butter's gets away with this it will send a resounding message to both Utah's conservative and moderates and the nation at large that there is something terribly broken in the Utah Republican party's ethics and moral integrity.
Butter's is like a malignant cancer of the landscape of Utah Republican party politics... and he'll bring a sort of death to an aspect of the party that the party cannot afford to lose.
Republicans of Utah... GET REAL!
JC | 8:38 a.m. Feb. 20, 2008
The real problem here is the NAACP and the media. The NAACP has completely blown
this stupid little comment way out of proportion and then the media just jumps
on the band wagon and does all these stupid news stories about this. Just
everyone stop please! I don't even know this guy, but I have heard the
comment and I can tell he was not referring to an African American infant. The
bill was the baby.
I have more negative feelings toward the NAACP during this story because they refuse to forgive somebody who has legitimately apologized. I would not want to be friends with somebody that if I accidentally said something wrong would never forgive me for it even after I have apologized numerous times. Find something better to do with your time NAACP and go read about Jesus and learn how to forgive!
I have more negative feelings toward the NAACP during this story because they refuse to forgive somebody who has legitimately apologized. I would not want to be friends with somebody that if I accidentally said something wrong would never forgive me for it even after I have apologized numerous times. Find something better to do with your time NAACP and go read about Jesus and learn how to forgive!
Reason | 8:33 a.m. Feb. 20, 2008
Sen. Buttars� comment was clumsy, but not racist. He has
apologized and need not apologize further. Still, he went the extra mile by
agreeing to meet with the NAACP in private. When he realized it was a publicity
stunt, with video cameras and all - and was not in any way a setting for
reconciliation - he wisely declined the offer. Jeanetta Williams needs to step
back from her sanctimonious �outrage�
and apologize for taking offense where none was intended. As it is,
she�s only making the NAACP look foolish. And society
needs to step back from its extreme hypersensitivity to matters of race - or
anything that can be misinterpreted as a matter of race.
We�ll all be better off for it.
Bot | 8:40 a.m. Feb. 20, 2008
Leave it up to the racial agitators to make a mountain out of molehill. Mr.
Buttars, we're with you all the way. Don't be suckered into another
P.R. stunt by the racial lobby. That's how they make their living by
agitating racial dis-unity.
Mike | 8:36 a.m. Feb. 20, 2008
Senator Buttars uses "black baby" and "ugly thing" in the
same thought. To label a baby as ugly on the basis of color has a taint of
bigotry.
Senator Buttars adds to that by saying that those who are upset with him are just a "hate lynch mob." He can't understand how people could see "lynch mob" as offensive."
Not long ago some nooses were left in a tree to resemble an old fashioned "lynching." This act has been condemned by many people. President George W. Bush has stated that the depiction of nooses and the use of the term "lynch" are extremely offensive.
Even more recently an announcer on the golf channel used the word "lynch" in a thought about Tiger Woods. She apologized profusely and said she understood how people would see her statement as insensitive and offensive but was suspended for two weeks.
At the least, Senator Buttars would have to be viewed as someone out of touch with the current state of affairs in his country. I would like to think he would also be viewed as out of touch with the current state of affairs in his state and community.
Senator Buttars adds to that by saying that those who are upset with him are just a "hate lynch mob." He can't understand how people could see "lynch mob" as offensive."
Not long ago some nooses were left in a tree to resemble an old fashioned "lynching." This act has been condemned by many people. President George W. Bush has stated that the depiction of nooses and the use of the term "lynch" are extremely offensive.
Even more recently an announcer on the golf channel used the word "lynch" in a thought about Tiger Woods. She apologized profusely and said she understood how people would see her statement as insensitive and offensive but was suspended for two weeks.
At the least, Senator Buttars would have to be viewed as someone out of touch with the current state of affairs in his country. I would like to think he would also be viewed as out of touch with the current state of affairs in his state and community.
My2CentsWorth | 8:38 a.m. Feb. 20, 2008
I believe the NAACP is racist, as it advances the cause of only a particular
group of people. It has outlived its usefulness, as demonstrated by the
continued attack on Mr Buttars over a very trivial matter. If a black person
had said the same thing would they have been so persecuted? I don' think
so. What he said has been TWISTED so that the local NAACP chapter can bring
attention to itself. It seems they have been taken lessons from Al Sharpton and
his minions.
speedo | 8:40 a.m. Feb. 20, 2008
A hate lynch mob? How does it feel to get a dose of your own medicine, Buttars?
What goes around does come around, you racist bigot.
re:JC | 8:49 a.m. Feb. 20, 2008
"they refuse to forgive somebody who has legitimately apologized."
Did not Mr. Buttars set up a meeting with them and blew it off?
Is that a legitimate apology, or an arrogant politician who blew off the NAACP.
What is so hard about all this??????????????
Did not Mr. Buttars set up a meeting with them and blew it off?
Is that a legitimate apology, or an arrogant politician who blew off the NAACP.
What is so hard about all this??????????????
I understand | 8:54 a.m. Feb. 20, 2008
I am in no way defending what Mr. Buttars said, but I can understand his desire
to meet without the media there. All the NAACP wants now is to embarrass Mr.
Buttar, which they hope will force him to resign.
He did nothing wrong! | 8:52 a.m. Feb. 20, 2008
Gees people. Buttars did nothing wrong. How common is it to think of dark as
evil and light as good. Ever heard of the Bible? Ever watch a movie? It's a
metaphorical comparison that goes back ages. He's being unfairly targeted
by blame-happy people.
Ron | 8:59 a.m. Feb. 20, 2008
How many of us have ever made an off hand comment and then wished we could take
it back? So a man's whole career, his whole span of public service can come
down to a few words said in a thoughtless moment? Then, to his credit, he
quickly apologized and tried to mend fences. So now he should resign and leave
office because of those words??? He also wanted to meet with those he offended
and apologize privately. Instead, they wanted a loud and angry public hearing to
further blow it out of proportion! Individuals with character would have quickly
accepted the apology in the first place and then tried to come back together and
work together. It's hateful and ridiculous to blow it into an incident of
epic proportions! Would you like words you said in a thoughtless moment to be
used to forever characterize you and who you are as an individual for the rest
of your life? Think about it. We all say stupid things sometimes. Let the first
one who has never said a stupid thing in his life cast the first stone! Looks
like we already have many stone throwers!!!
Add your comment
Comments are monitored. Any comments found to be abusive, offensive, off-topic, misrepresentative, more than 200 words or containing URLs will not be posted.
Words Remaining
E-mail address: For internal use only. We may want to contact you to publish your comment (not your e-mail address) in the newspaper or for a separate story idea.
Jeanetta Williams, president of the Salt Lake Branch of the NAACP, attends meeting Tuesday with branch member Edward Lewis Jr., holding photo of himself and grandson.
Related content
- Massive pipeline dig starts Monday 6:44 p.m.
- Ads to discourage underage drinking 6:33 p.m.
- New holiday meaning for Breinholt 6:29 p.m.
- Flu rates remain stable; clinics set 6:23 p.m.
- Otter released into Provo River 6:20 p.m.
- U. puts Universe Project on hold 6:18 p.m.
- Salem rezones land for industry 5:48 p.m.
- Tempering water shutoff rules 5:47 p.m.
- NFL capsules for Thursday's games 5:45 p.m.
- Transactions 5:40 p.m.
- Donny and Kym dance to victory
- Howard made the rivalry a rivalry
- Crews free man in Utah County cave
- Cougars cruise past Southern
- Loyal to Cougarettes, Crimson Line
- Twitterati to BCS: 'We hate you.'
- Y. focused on 10-win season
- BYU has slim shot at BCS
- Thunder rolls by Jazz
- Witness describes '99 killing
- BYU would like friendlier rivalry
258 - Glenn Beck to enter politics?227
- Protests against Phoenix LDS temple205
- RSL wins MLS Cup on penalty kicks202
- Bronco, Kyle rubber match139
- BYU records with win133
- Letters: Rushing to judge Palin129
- Boys basketball rankings103
- Thunder rolls by Jazz102
- Hall, Johnson matchup key102
Latest comments
organization that has SA roots. They know how to manage and build a...
Why not PG? We want in on the battle. We are always on the outside looking...
Are GREAT ALL of THEM!
Escalante lost by 50 wow! What a drop off in talent it sickens you but it...
Two comments re: Ute Basketball presently -1) Why toss up 3s when if you...
I now live at about 10K feet elevation in the Breckenridge Colorado area -...
Mike Moreau: (coach) "I think they've (Jazz) pretty much made their bed -...
I love mule deer, big horn sheep and other native fauna. They are native...
I was peer pressured to go into this hell hole - it was like being an ant in...
The problem is that people should know their limits. If you're 6 foot tall...
Advertisements
He is such an embarrassment to the Republican Party, the State Senate and the State of Utah that things thing is well beyond just apologizing to the NAACP.
You owe all of us an apology for the shame you have brought us.