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Nixon Must Recant 21st Century ‘Enemies List’

March 24, 2009

JEFFERSON CITY_Despite growing backlash, Gov. Jay Nixon is refusing to apologize for the release of a report that casts a shadow over millions of law-abiding Missourians. The report, which Nixon previously defended in an interview with KRCG-TV, has garnered national attention for its irresponsible equation of mainstream conservative beliefs with domestic terrorist activities.

In a letter this afternoon, Public Safety Director John Britt retracted certain sections of the report that associated supporters of third-party groups and Republican Congressman Ron Paul of potentially posing a threat to public safety. As reported by KY3, he refused to publicly apologize for other elements of the report equating pro-life and small government views with domestic terrorism.

“A tepid apology from the Director of the Department of Public Safety does not go far enough in assuring Missourians that they will not be targeted by law enforcement for holding mainstream views,” said David Cole, Chairman of the Missouri Republican Party. “Gov. Nixon unequivocally defended this report after its release. It is time for him to offer a public apology and unconditional retraction.”

The Nixon Administration’s report, entitled “The Modern Militia Movement,” singles out those with pro-life, pro-lower taxes, anti-illegal immigration, and libertarian views. Millions of hardworking Missourians hold these beliefs but pose absolutely no threat to public safety, and it is the height of irresponsibility to compare them to some of the most extreme and dangerous elements of society.

“While we all strive to make our state and nation safer and more secure, it is the height of irresponsibility to target Missourians who have bumper stickers in support of a political candidate or cause,” said Cole. “Hopefully Governor Nixon is not using law enforcement to quash dissent and instill fear of persecution or prosecution for those who oppose his political agenda.”

On Friday, March 20, Nixon defended the report, saying: “Getting information, especially public information, out of our fusion center out to local law enforcement agencies is what we do every day and we’re going to continue to do. Any way they take that information and can analyze what the threat levels are is important to make sure the public stays safe.” Video of his statement to KRCG-TV is available here:

http://www.connectmidmissouri.com/news/video.aspx?id=276049