Friday
Jun262009
Political World Responds To Michael Jackson's Death
Friday, June 26, 2009 at 11:44PM
Following Thursday's announcement of legendary pop-star Michael Jackson's death, the typically straight-laced political community offered an uncharacteristic response to the loss of the flamboyant, often troubled, performer.
On Friday, at the behest of Rep. Jesse Jackson Jr. (D-Ill.) and other members of the Congressional Black Caucus, the House Of Representatives observed a moment of silence for Michael Jackson.
"I come to the floor today on behalf of a generation to thank God for letting all of us live in [Michael Jackson's] generation and in his era," stated a somber Rep. Jackson.
In addition, Rep. Sheila Lee (D-Texas), who hosted Jackson when he came to Capitol Hill in 2004, followed the heated Waxman-Markey vote by announcing her intention to introduce legislation honoring the singer.
While President Barack Obama did not issue a formal statement in response to the pop star's death, Press Secretary Robert Gibbs did note that the President had offered condolences for both Jackson's family and fans. Gibbs also noted that Obama viewed Jackson as a "spectacular", albeit "troubled", performer.
California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger (R) made the memorialization of Jackson a bipartisan affair. On Friday, the Governor issued a written statement praising the so-called King of Pop as "one of the most influential and iconic figures in the music industry".
Michael Jackson, who recorded hit songs such as "Beat It" and "Thriller", was 50 years old.
On Friday, at the behest of Rep. Jesse Jackson Jr. (D-Ill.) and other members of the Congressional Black Caucus, the House Of Representatives observed a moment of silence for Michael Jackson.
"I come to the floor today on behalf of a generation to thank God for letting all of us live in [Michael Jackson's] generation and in his era," stated a somber Rep. Jackson.
In addition, Rep. Sheila Lee (D-Texas), who hosted Jackson when he came to Capitol Hill in 2004, followed the heated Waxman-Markey vote by announcing her intention to introduce legislation honoring the singer.
While President Barack Obama did not issue a formal statement in response to the pop star's death, Press Secretary Robert Gibbs did note that the President had offered condolences for both Jackson's family and fans. Gibbs also noted that Obama viewed Jackson as a "spectacular", albeit "troubled", performer.
California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger (R) made the memorialization of Jackson a bipartisan affair. On Friday, the Governor issued a written statement praising the so-called King of Pop as "one of the most influential and iconic figures in the music industry".
Michael Jackson, who recorded hit songs such as "Beat It" and "Thriller", was 50 years old.
Reader Comments (3)
R.I.P. Michael Jackson!You might? be gone, but you will never be forgotten!
I will always love Micheal! No matter what was going on in my life I always found his music to be comforting in some way and that will never be forgotten.
Dear madam, Congresswoman!
I woluld like to say thank you for your each word You said last day in the memorial sevice of Michael Jackson. You said truth and your speech made the service inspired. It is help us to know, there were people around Michael Jackson who really loved Him and tribute of His respect. It is so nice act of congress that made the 6oo paragraph. Thank you for it ! It is so great feeling, you gave us with it!
Thank You for expecting your respect and telling story about Him, which we didnt know.
I think from the far ( from Hungary) You are a honest politician and God bless You throught your life and bless you because of your unforgattable speech, You did.
thank you: Susanne Sándor