Rep. Joe Wilson’s outburst sparks protest in Beaufort

The real issue was supposed to be about health care reform. But today this crowd is even more divided… not by what the president is saying about his plan, but by what Congressman Joe Wilson said to the president.

Pat Youmans says it may have come at an inappropriate time, but she supports Wilson’s actions. “It was not the thing to do, but I think he was representing a lot of us that would feel we’d like to jump up and shout the same thing he did… However, he has apologized. But for Susan Madison, who came to protest Wilson’s actions, an apology isn’t enough. “I think that what we have going to here in America is doing whatever we want to and then having a press conference and issuing an apology.  An apology is fine, as long as it’s heartfelt… but, it doesn’t correct a wrong.“

What began as a civil gathering… quickly turned into a shouting match as demonstrators marched outside of Wilson’s Beaufort office to express their disdain to his actions. They were met by supporters who quickly came to his defense, like Jenny Costa.
“Whether it’s dividing this country or not, we are all allowed to say what we feel and that’s what we should be doing.“ Phillip Fairbanks disagrees. “I think Joe Wilson sort of personifies why we’re not having a rational debate about healthcare.“

There were chants. Port Republic Street separating the two sides… though their views are worlds apart.
“That’s our freedom of speech”, Costa says, “If they silence us, that’s the wrong thing.“ Fairbanks says he’s disappointed. “I think South Carolina, which I might add, has been a laughing stock in this country for too long.  I think Joe Wilson has just put us right back in that box and I’m sick of it.“
 
At the end of the day, there seemed to be no common ground- aside from the fact that both groups hope to make a difference by grabbing the attention of lawmakers and making their voices heard.

Following the demonstration, protesters left their signs and letters to congressman wilson in front of his office.