Gov. Scott Says Jackson Needs To Apologize
TALLAHASSEE (CBSMiami/AP) — Gov. Rick Scott has taken the Rev. Jesse Jackson to task over remarks he made Tuesday while joining a protest in the Capitol.
Jackson spent time this week with a group upset with acquittal of George Zimmerman of second degree murder in the shooting death of 17-year old Trayvon Martin. They have refused to leave the Capitol until Scott calls a special session and asks legislators to overhaul the state's self-defense laws.
Scott so far has refused the request.
Jackson criticized the state as the "Selma of our time" and made a comparison of Scott to former Alabama Gov. George Wallace. Selma, Alabama was the site of civil rights protests and clashes with police during the '60s.
Jackson has also referred to Florida as the "Apartheid State."
In a statement from the governor's office, Scott said Jackson needs to apologize for his insulting remarks.
Scott in a release blasted Jackson's comments as "reckless" and "divisive." He says that Jackson should apologize for his remarks, which he called "divisive" and "insulting."
"It is unfortunate that he would come to Florida to insult Floridians and divide our state at a time when we are striving for unity and healing," said Scott in the statement. "Floridians are a strong, resilient people. We are fortunate to live in a great state where all Floridians enjoy opportunities to get a great job and a world-class education."
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