Talking Points: 'Lunatic,' RGIII, payroll taxes

Why did Congress vote against the word ‘lunatic’?

The House this week approved legislation that strikes the word “lunatic” from federal law, saying the term was outdated and offensive. Lawmakers removed the term “mental retardation” from the U.S. Code two years ago. The next possible deletion: “mental defective.” Rep. Louie Gohmert, R-Texas, was the lone vote against deleting “lunatic.” He was protesting Congress diverting its attention away from critical financial issues.