Congressman who called equal marriage ‘bullshazzl’: I’m not going to coddle anybody

PinkNews logo on pink background with rainbow corners.

A Republican congressman, who referred to equal marriage as ‘bullshazzl’ during a speech to a school, says he doesn’t want to “coddle” anyone.

Alaska Representative Don Young – who at 81 is the longest-serving US congressman – swore repeatedly during an event at Wasilla High School this week.

Mr Young made insensitive remarks about suicide while addressing a school assembly – just days after a student at the school killed themselves – and also made jokes about getting drunk, reportedly used the words “asshole” and “smartass”.

He also labelled same-sex marriage “bullshazzl”, saying: “You can’t have marriage with two men. What do you get with two bulls?”

Responding to the controversy, Mr Young said: “You know me. You’re going to hear me. And I’m not going to coddle anybody. We have a society today that coddles people.

“It’s an ‘oh we’re sorry.’ We don’t want to hurt your feelings. You screwed up. Alright thank you. That’s what I’m saying.”

Democrat Forrest Dunbar, who is running against Young in the midterm elections, said: “This has gone past the point of bizarre. In the last two days I have gone from shocked, to saddened, to angered.

“Yesterday I said I hoped Don regretted his statements to WHS, and would learn from them. After his remarks today it is clear Don Young will not change.”

“The Don Young that lashed out at those students, and who is so painfully ignorant on the issue of suicide, is the Don Young we have representing us in Congress.”

Comments (0)

MyPinkNews members are invited to comment on articles to discuss the content we publish, or debate issues more generally. Please familiarise yourself with our community guidelines to ensure that our community remains a safe and inclusive space for all.

Loading Comments