Hasting Spokesman Stands By Palin Remarks

ABC News is reporting reaction to Rep. Alcee Hastings comments concerning Gov. Sarah Palin. Yesterday, the Florida Democrat told a group of Jewish and African-Americans that “If Sarah Palin isn’t enough of a reason for you to get over whatever your problem is with Barack Obama, then you damn well had better pay attention.” He also told the group “anybody toting guns and stripping moose don’t care too much about what they do with Jews and blacks. So, you just think this through,”

The ABC News reports says:

Hastings spokesman David Goldenberg told ABC News that he was trying to argue that Palin is an "extremely conservative woman who is out of touch with mainstream America."

After saying that Palin "don't care too much" about Jews and blacks, Hastings argued that African Americans and Jews should come together behind Obama because there are many issues on which they agree.

"Just like Jews, blacks care about affordable health care, energy independence, and the separation of church and state," said Hastings. "And just like blacks, Jews care about equal pay for equal work, investment in alternative energy, and a woman's right to choose."

Asked about the Hastings criticism, Palin spokeswoman Maria Comella said, "We’re taking a pass."