GOP Chairman Appalled by Johnson's Taliban Charges

See this release from GOP Chair Randy Frederick:

HERSETH CAMPAIGN RALLY EMBARRASSES SOUTH DAKOTA

The Taliban is a well-known terrorist organization. They have dedicated their lives to the murder and maiming of innocent people. The very mention of the name incites feelings of disgust and disdain. If you are a Republican are you a member of the Taliban? US Senator Tim Johnson said you may be. On Sunday, May 23, 2004, at a Herseth rally he made those slanderous and malicious remarks about the Republican Party. Most self-respecting South Dakotans would be embarrassed to have witnessed such a spectacle. Stephanie Herseth did nothing to stop the verbal assault on Republicans.

She has only succeeded in offending Republicans and embarrassing Democrats. She talks about a clean campaign but then stands by as her friends verbally abuse good South Dakota Republicans. This is the direct quote, “When Stephanie Herseth fills this seat, we are going to have a rising star in the House of Representatives. And how sweet it’s going to be on June 2 when the Taliban wing of the Republican Party finds out what’s happened in South Dakota”.

We must take action to combat the attack on the character of all Republicans in South Dakota. Tell your friends about this repulsive comment. Let your neighbors know of the inappropriate conduct by the Herseth campaign. She has violated the rule of decency.

If you are like me, I have many good friends who are members of the Democrat Party. They do not believe I’m a terrorist. The Herseth rally is attempting to drive a wedge between neighbors, friends, and relatives. Let me ask the question, “Is this the type of conduct you want out of your Congressman?” This radical statement should not only offend Republicans but every self-respecting Democrat as well.

Randy Frederick, Chairman

South Dakota Republican Party