The SDDP Calls on South Dakota Republicans to Denounce Trump’s Racist Comments

PIERRE, S.D. – The South Dakota Democratic Party released the following statement from Executive Director Sam Parkinson in responding to President Donald Trump’s reported comments questioning why the U.S. would accept immigrants from “shithole” countries like Haiti or in Africa, instead of places like Norway, comments that were confirmed this morning by Sen. Dick Durbin:

“There is no way around it – these comments are racist, and South Dakota Democrats denounce them in the strongest possible terms. Democrats believe that diversity is a source of strength for our state and our country, and we reject any attempts to divide our communities, whether that comes from Washington or Pierre. Not only do these words and actions make Americans feel unwelcome in their own home, they alienate our international allies and make us less safe.

“Denouncing racism and bigotry should not be a partisan issue: we call on South Dakota’s congressional delegation, as well as those Republicans running for Congress, to join us in denouncing these hateful remarks. Unfortunately, given the SDGOP’s lack of leadership in denouncing hate in the past, and the Republican congressional candidates’ recent competition to be the most extreme on immigration issues, we’re not holding our breath.”

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