Former Attorney General Eric Holder, the first sitting cabinet member in American history to be voted in civil and criminal contempt of Congress, came under fire earlier this week for calling on leftist activists to "kick Republicans."
"When they go low, we kick them," Holder said. "That's what this new Democrat Party is all about. We are proud as hell to be Democrats."
As a survivor of a politically motivated attack, it is tragic to think this is an acceptable state of political discourse in our country. I refuse to stand for it. Democratic leaders need to condemn, rather than promote these dangerous calls to action. https://t.co/r8GZgf9vnM
— Rep. Steve Scalise (@SteveScalise) October 12, 2018
After criticism erupted over the comments, Holder is attempting to walk them back as "obviously" not serious. Notice he isn't apologizing.
Ok, stop the fake outrage. I’m obviously not advocating violence. (In fact, when I was AG violent crime in the US was historically low.) I’m saying Republicans are undermining our democracy and Democrats need to be tough, proud and stand up for the values we believe in - the end.
— Eric Holder (@EricHolder) October 11, 2018
But it wasn't just Republicans or conservatives who criticized Holder, former First Lady Michelle Obama also weighed in.
“Fear it’s not a proper motivator. Hope wins out.” @MichelleObama on her motto, “When they go low, we go high.” #DayOfTheGirlTODAY pic.twitter.com/XyKW1w4AM8
— TODAY (@TODAYshow) October 11, 2018
Meanwhile, Democrats are still encouraging activists to engage in mob behavior against Republicans and conservatives at their homes, in restaurants and any other place where they are "found."