Carter: Wilson's Heckling of Obama 'Based on Racism'

By Newser Editors and Wire Services
Posted Sep 15, 2009 8:33 PM CDT
Carter: Wilson's Heckling of Obama 'Based on Racism'
Rep. Joe Wilson, R-SC, speaks to reporters on Capitol Hill today.   (AP Photo)

Former President Jimmy Carter says Rep. Joe Wilson's outburst during President Obama's speech last week was an act "based on racism." Carter says Wilson's comment was part of an "inherent feeling" of some that a black man should not be president. In responding to a question at a town-hall meeting at his presidential center in Atlanta, Carter also called Wilson's comment "dastardly" and said the president should be treated with respect. (More Joe Wilson stories.)

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