Georgia Lawmaker Faces Calls To Resign After Using Racial Slur, Dropping Pants On Television
In an episode of “Who Is America?” on Showtime, Georgia Rep. Jason Spencer used a racial slur and exposed his buttocks while participating in what he believed was anti-terrorism training.
GEORGIA HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
A Georgia state lawmaker is facing calls for his resignation after a television appearance where he yelled a racial slur and dropped his pants.
Republican State Rep. Jason Spencer appeared on an episode of Sacha Baron Cohen’s Showtime program “Who Is America?” that aired Sunday.
In one segment, Spencer is shown shouting the “n-word” and exposing his buttocks while participating in what he believed was anti-terrorism training.
“The actions and language used on this video are reprehensible. Representative Spencer has disgraced himself and should resign immediately,” said Republican David Ralston, speaker of the Georgia House, in a statement.
Other prominent Georgia Republicans have denounced Spencer, including Gov. Nathan Deal.
“The actions and language used by Jason Spencer are appalling and offensive. There is no excuse for this type of behavior, ever, and I am saddened and disgusted by it,” Deal said on Twitter.
The candidates in the GOP primary runoff for governor have also weighed in.
Lt. Gov. Casey Cagle has called for Spencer to resign. Secretary of State Brian Kemp has said Spencer should issue a public apology.
Spencer said he was tricked by the makers of the television program, and has threatened legal action.
In a statement Monday, Spencer apologized for the incident but said he would not be stepping down.
“I will not be eligible to hold office next term,” Spencer writes. “Therefore, I will finish the remaining five months at my post and vacate my seat.”
The Republican lawmaker from coastal Georgia is set to leave office in January. He won’t be up for re-election this November after losing in a primary election earlier this year.
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