House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., said the House will not take up a resolution honoring Michael Jackson because doing so would invite a barrage of criticism about the late pop star and the controversies that plagued his life.
“A resolution, I think, would open up to contrary views that are not necessary at this time to be expressed in association with a resolution whose purpose is quite different,” Pelosi said.
Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee, D-Texas., announced at the Jackson memorial service that she had drafted House Resolution 600, to recognize him for his music and his humanitarian efforts.
The resolution reads like a mini-biography of Jackson’s life, starting with his childhood performances of such hits as “I Want You Back,” “ABC,” “The Love You Save” and “I’ll Be There,” and progressing through his efforts to help others during his adult life that included visits to the sick and the donation of millions of dollars to charitable causes.
The resolution concludes by declaring that the House “celebrates Michael Jackson as an accomplished contributor to the worlds of arts and entertainment, scientific advances in the treatment of HIV/AIDS, and global food security.”
But no sooner had Jackson Lee waved a framed copy of the resolution in front of the thousands of mourners at Jackson’s packed memorial service at the Staples Center Tuesday than Republicans began pledging a floor fight that would bring up some of the less flattering aspects of Jackson’s life, including charges that he molested young boys.
Rep. Peter King, R-N.Y., vowed to do all he could to block passage of the resolution. King posted a video on You Tube that declared Jackson to be a “pervert.”
Jackson was acquitted of child molestation charges in 2005. His accusers said the alleged victim and his family were after Jackson’s money and their charges were baseless, but it badly damaged his career.
Democratic aides said there is “little appetite” for a debate about Jackson on the House floor.
Pelosi said those who want to praise Jackson can do so during designated times for floor speeches that usually occur at the beginning and end of the legislative day, and for which no votes are required.
