US Rep. Bob Etheridge, who represents North Carolina’s 2nd District, issued an apology for his actions captured in a viral video that circulated on YouTube and a number of internet blogs on Monday.
“I have seen the video posted on several blogs,” Etheridge said in a statement. “I deeply and profoundly regret my reaction and I apologize to all involved. Throughout my many years of service to the people of North Carolina, I have always tried to treat people from all viewpoints with respect. No matter how intrusive and partisan our politics can become, this does not justify a poor response. I have and I will always work to promote a civil public discourse.”
In the video, Etheridge, a 14-year incumbent, can be seen walking down a Washington street when he is accosted by two men who ask if the congressman fully supports “the Obama agenda.” Etheridge looks directly in the camera lens and asks, “Who are you?” Etheridge then grabs one of the men by the wrist and continues to ask, “Who are you?” The two men claim to be students working on a project. Etheridge then grabs one of the men by the neck and puts his arm around him momentarily before releasing him.
Etheridge is running for his eighth term in the US House. His Republican challenger is Renee Ellmers, a nurse from Dunn. According to the Federal Elections Commission website, Etheridge has raised $706,340 in his re-election effort and has more than $1.1 million on hand. Ellmers reports that she raised $5,147 last quarter with $51,000 on hand.
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