President Obama accepted the apology of a South Carolina Republican who shouted “You lie!” in the middle of Obama’s speech in Congress.
According to Obama, Wilson asked for unequivocally sought for forgiveness and that the congressman claimed his shout-out was just spontaneous.
A day after Wilson surprised the president with his outburst, Obama told reporters that people make mistakes.
The Democrats have considered sanctioning Wilson, but early Thursday they decided that doing so may distract lawmakers in reaching an agreement to overhaul the country’s health care programme.
Meanwhile, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi said that it is time for them to discuss the health insurance and not Wilson.
The health care bill’s House version clearly prohibited the expenditure of federal money to aid illegal immigrants in getting health care coverage.
At the chamber, an angry and stunned Pelosi chose not to gavel down the congressman on the spot. She said Obama was correct to continue his speech and not give attention to Wilson’s comment.
At the suggestion of senior Republicans, Wilson called the White House to apologise and spoke with Rahm Emanuel, the White House Chief of Staff. Wilson agreed to pursue a civil conversation about health care with the White House.
Democrats and Republicans alike have condemned Wilson’s act.
When Obama finished his speech, Wilson immediately left the chamber and afterwards issued an apology. He then phoned the White House to apologise to Obama personally. However, he ended up speaking with Mr. Emanuel instead.
