Alaskan Representative Don Young apologized Friday for referring to Hispanic migrant workers as "wetbacks" in a radio interview, the Associated Press reported. "I apologize for the insensitive term I used during an interview in Ketchikan, Alaska," Young said in a statement after lawmakers from both political parties were incensed for using an "antiquated" and "offensive" term.
"There was no malice in my heart or intent to offend; it was a poor choice of words," Rep. Young said. "That word, and the negative attitudes that come with it, should be left in the 20th century, and I'm sorry that this has shifted our focus away from comprehensive immigration reform."
While discussing the labor market during an interview with radio station KRBD in Ketchikan, Young said that on his father's ranch, "we used to have 50-60 wetbacks to pick tomatoes. It takes two people to pick the same tomatoes now. It's all done by machine."
"Wetbacks" often refers to Mexican migrants who have entered the country illegally, and many consider the term highly disparaging.
His use of the word drew swift criticism from fellow Republicans working to temper the party's hardline positions on illegal immigrants.
House Speaker John Boehner said Young's remarks were "offensive and beneath the dignity of the office he holds. There's no excuse, and it warrants an immediate apology."
Senator John McCain had issued a tweet early Friday afternoon repudiating his remarks "Don Young's comments were offensive and have no place in our Party or in our nation's discourse. He should apologize immediately," he wrote.
"Shame on Don Young," said Congressional Hispanic Caucus Chairman Ruben Hinojosa. "It is deeply disheartening that in 2013, we are forced to have a discussion about a member of Congress using such hateful words and racial slurs." There is even a Facebook page created under the moniker, "Racist Rep. Don Young Should Resign."
Janet Murguía, the president of the National Council of La Raza, the largest national Hispanic civil rights and advocacy organization in the United States, said it was "sad and disappointing" to learn that a member of Congress "continues to use such an antiquated and demeaning term."
In recent weeks, the Republican Party is seeking greater outreach in an effort to become more inclusive and appealing to all ethnicities..
Young added that during the interview, he had "discussed the compassion and understanding I have for these workers and the hurdles they face in obtaining citizenship" He underscored the country must tackle the issue of immigration reform effectively.
