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In what may be the ultimate irony, Congressman Bob Etheridge’s name is attached to anti-bullying legislation now making its way through Congress. 

 H.R. 2262, the Safe Schools Improvement Act list Etheridge as a co-sponsor.  The bill describes itself as an act “To amend the Safe and Drug-FreeSchools and Communities Act to include bullying and harassment prevention programs.”  The primary sponsor of the bill is Rep. Linda Sanchez (D-CA39).

 “Congressman Etheridge is the last person who should have his name attached to anti-student bullying legislation after that video of him attacking a student on a public street,” said Mark Otto, chairman of the Second Congressional District Republican Party.   “Congresswoman Sanchez should direct him to remove himself from her bill if he will not do so voluntarily.  It’s insulting to students, teachers and parents and completely undermines any legitimate purpose of the bill.”

Etheridge was also a co-sponsor of H.R. 3692, the “ Bullying Prevention for School Safety and Crime Reduction Act” in 2003.

 Last Election Year, Etheridge announced with great fanfare and publicity nearly half a million dollars in earmarks for local organizations that assist victims of assault and other crimes.   According to Etheridge’s website, the earmarks would “assist victims of violence, and to strengthen families and create safer communities.” (June 2008)
 Despite calling a press conference himself Monday, Etheridge still has not provided any details about the physical confrontation, refusing to answer reporters’ questions but only to issue a statement.   Many are still wondering:

                     ·         What day did the physical attack actually take place?
·         Did Etheridge report the incident to the House Ethics Committee, considering he could possibly be charged with criminal assault? 
·         Was he contacted by Capital police? 
·         Was this on the way from a fundraiser with Nancy Pelosi?
·         Were alcoholic beverages served at the fundraiser?

 “Mr Etheridge owes the voters a complete explanation of what happened, when it happened and what influences played a role,” concluded Otto.

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