"I apologize for reopening old wounds and hurting so many Americans.... I'm not about to resign for an accusation for something I'm not.... I take full responsibility for my remarks and only hope that people will find in their heart to forgive me for this grievous mistake."
I'm not so sure that the self-righteous calls for Lott's resignation are the answer. From where I sit, the most effective measures are what is going on right now: the constant drumbeats of media attention, most of it justifiably drawing attention to Lott's ignorance, bigotry, and insensitivity.
I could care less whether Lott steps down as Majority Leader. Since when have Republicans cared for anything but where their next campaign donations are coming from (and yes, you could lay the same charge against most Democrats, Owen)? Lott's resignation, or lack of same, will not solve the problem of racism in this country. The only thing that will is changing attitudes. Lott's remarks, while repugnant, have served their purpose in reminding us that while laws may change, attitudes are not so easily legislated out of existence. Yes, Lott may be an out-of-the-closet bigot, but he is not an isolated case. He just demonstrated the risks of not sticking to a prepared text.
