Please see below a letter from FDP Chairman Smith to RPOF Chairman Curry urging the Republicans to condemn the recent egregious remarks of Congressman Allen West. Text is below.

April 12, 2012

Lenny Curry, Chairman
Republican Party of Florida
420 E Jefferson Street
Tallahassee, FL 32301

Dear Chairman Curry,

            On behalf of the Florida Democratic Party I request that the RPOF immediately condemn Congressman Allen West’s egregious allegations that “78-81” Democratic Representatives in Congress are “communists” and demand an apology from Congressman West.  Each of us understands the hyperbole that surfaces during every political season. It is a long-standing practice in American politics. But there are and must be lines.  To suggest that elected Democrats share political views with Joseph Stalin, Mao Zedong or other communist dictators who murdered their people and suppressed the freedom of hundreds of millions for generations recalls the shameful practice of Joseph McCarthy. I am sure you proudly recall that it was a Republican Senator, Margaret Chase Smith, whose statement of conscience publically admonished McCarthy’s tactics of accusing unnamed persons of being “card carrying communists.”

            While our parties have marked political differences and separate visions for this State and Nation each of us must remember that both Democrats and Republicans shed their blood fighting for freedom. Both parties have a proud tradition of opposing fascism and communism no matter the cost. While Congressman West has clearly forgotten that lesson, I trust your party has not. Your silence will be read as acquiescence.

I look forward to your reply, and request that Congressman West apologize to our nation for his dangerous, inflammatory remarks.

Sincerely,

Rod Smith
Chairman, Florida Democratic Party

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