Clyburn wants resolution disapproving of Wilson's remarks

House Majority Whip James Clyburn (D-S.C.) said Thursday he would support -- if not personally introduce -- a resolution disapproving of Rep. Joe Wilson's (R-S.C.) outburst during President Barack Obama's speech Wednesday night.

"His words were inappropriate, and I think they're a sign of bad manners," Clyburn told MSNBC. "Do I think we should censor? No. Do I think we ought to pass a resolution of disapproval of his actions? Yes. We are no longer in session today, but I plan to introduce such a resolution, or ask my leadership to do so, if he refuses to go to the well [of the Congress] and apologize to his colleagues."

Clyburn's stern rebuke differs greatly from the tone taken by House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.), who told reporters today, "It's time for us to talk about healthcare, not Joe Wilson." She then dismissed numerous calls for his formal censure.

Wilson has since apologized to the president for his remark, and Obama quickly accepted. But Clyburn, citing Wilson's conduct as a gross "violation of [House] decorum," remained unconvinced. "He has no remorse whatsoever, so his words have very little meaning," the Majority Whip said, noting that Wilson only apologized because GOP leaders demanded it.

But, Clyburn added, those kinds of disruptions were expected at this stage in the health care debate.

"They told us, when we got back two days ago, if you thought August was bad, just wait until you see September and October," he said.