Crofton Online: Election Coverage
Gilchrest Slips, Admits To Being An Alien; Right to Hold Public Office Questioned

Republican Congressman Embarrasses Crofton

In an amazing statement yesterday, Republican Wayne Gilchrest admitted that he is an alien, raising legal questions about his right to continue in office. The Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS), the federal agency responsible for apprehending illegal aliens, had not commented on the controversy as of Thursday morning [September 17].

Gilchrest, who represents portions of Crofton in the U.S. House of Representatives, was caught on record fantasizing about what he would do if he were an American citizen.

Republican Gilchrest, a strong vocal supporter of tobacco lobbyist Kenneth Starr, began his latest attack on the President's personal privacy with the words, "If I was [sic] an American citizen..."

The American constitution requires that Congressmen and Senators be legal U.S. citizens.

In a related matter, Gilchrest went on to thumb his nose at his constituents who, along with 66% of all Americans according to polls, have said loudly and clearly that they do not want the "secret" videotape of President Clinton's testimony before the Starr Inquisition to be leaked to the press.

One area resident told Crofton Online, "I don't think I can stand another year of having this crap crammed down my throat. I don't want to hear it anymore. The President has said he is sorry. Enough is enough."

Gilchrest told the tabloid Baltimore Sun that despite public opinion, "a huge number of Republicans" want the tape released. The wishes of his party clearly outweigh those of his constituents.

Gilchrest is running for reelection in November.


Read what noted author and media critic Jon Katz says about the battle between the press and the public.


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