Real Clear Politics has the video [1] of the Rep. Bob Etheridge (D-NC2) presser where he apologized for manhandling two young men [2] who approached him with questions after a fundraiser headlined by House Speaker Nancy Pelosi last week.
Here’s his official statement [3]:
“I have seen the video posted on several blogs. I deeply and profoundly regret my reaction and I apologize to all involved. Throughout my many years of service to the people of North Carolina, I have always tried to treat people from all viewpoints with respect. No matter how intrusive and partisan our politics can become, this does not justify a poor response. I have and I will always work to promote a civil public discourse.”
The Raleigh News and Observer reports that WH spoxdude Robert Fibbs weighed in [4] and had nothing but praise for Etheridge who he used to work for:
Gibbs’ e-mailed response: “I’ve known Bob Etheridge for more than a thirteen years and I am proud to have worked for him. He is one of the most honorable people I know. Everyone makes mistakes, and I’m proud of Bob for taking responsibility and apologizing for his.”
Wow, Fibbsie’s endorsement is not exactly one I would want to have in the current anti-Obama climate. Maybe Renee Ellmers [5], Etheridge’s GOP opponent in the NC-02 race this fall, will use it as a fundraising tool 
Here’s what she had to say [6] about the altercation:
If a teacher or principal treated a student this way – it would raise serious questions and he would be suspended. This kind of behavior is equally unacceptable in a Congressman. Bob Etheridge needs to make a full, complete and candid public explanation for this behavior. His describing his behavior as “a poor response” is not adequate. Most important of all, Congressman Etheridge should apologize – in person – to the two students.
She had more to say on the incident during an interview she did with Hot Air’s Ed Morrissey, which you can listen to here [7]. She also did an interview with Stage Right, which you can listen to here [8].
The whole incident was just bizarre. Don’t know who the guys were, and I don’t think it really matters. After watching both videos (and the raw, unedited footage here [9]), it’s clear that Etheridge was way out of line, and for what reason? Someone asking him if he supported the Obama agenda? It just doesn’t make sense, and BE is right – having a “long day” doesn’t excuse the behavior.
Maybe having to make excuses for, well, supporting the Obama agenda has just become too much for the Congressman?