Someone needs to remind North Carolina Rep. Bob Etheridge that this here is the Internet age, that he is a public figure, and that high jinks like this scuffle, which hit the Web on Monday, should be avoided at all costs. Too late this time, Congressman.

Etheridge later apologized at a press conference and on his official website, saying, “I deeply and profoundly regret my reaction. … I have and I will always work to promote a civil public discourse.” The man the Democrat grabbed in the sidewalk incident said he was a student, but his identity was not immediately known.

Robert Gibbs, the White House press secretary, who once worked for Etheridge, said in an e-mail, “… I’m proud of Bob for taking responsibility and apologizing. …” –KA

YouTube:

Wait, before you go…

If you're reading this, you probably already know that non-profit, independent journalism is under threat worldwide. Independent news sites are overshadowed by larger heavily funded mainstream media that inundate us with hype and noise that barely scratch the surface. We believe that our readers deserve to know the full story. Truthdig writers bravely dig beneath the headlines to give you thought-provoking, investigative reporting and analysis that tells you what’s really happening and who’s rolling up their sleeves to do something about it.

Like you, we believe a well-informed public that doesn’t have blind faith in the status quo can help change the world. Your contribution of as little as $5 monthly or $35 annually will make you a groundbreaking member and lays the foundation of our work.

Support Truthdig