Davis Apologizes; But, Boy, What Excuse Is There?

Rep. Geoff Davis (R-KY) is 49 years old. Barack Obama is 46 years old. When was the last time you called someone three years younger than you a boy?

Anyway, Davis sent a letter of apology to Obama forthwith and is trying to contact him for a personal phone call:

Dear Senator Obama:

On Saturday night I gave a speech in which I used a poor choice of words when discussing the national security policy positions of the Presidential candidates. I was quoted as saying "That boy's finger does not need to be on the button."

My poor choice of words is regrettable and was in no way meant to impugn you or your integrity. I offer my sincere apology to you and ask for your forgiveness.

Though we may disagree on many issues, I know that we share the goal of a prosperous, secure future for our nation. My comment has detracted from the dialogue that we should all be having on legitimate policy differences and in no way reflects the personal and professional respect I have for you.

Sincerely

Geoff Davis

One remark: one of Ex-Sen. Trent Lott's problems was that it took him two weeks to understand precisely why his comments were offensive. Davis's comments offend not because they demeaned Obama's integrity; they're offensive because, well, in 2008, for a white person to call a black person "boy," is generally seen as racist no matter where you are. (CF: "Mammy," "Uncle," and other terms of "endearment".)