Specter, Bachmann clash over 'lady' remark

A radio debate between Pennsylvania Sen. Arlen Specter (D) and Minnesota Rep. Michele Bachmann (R) on Thursday grew especially heated when the senator told the conservative congresswoman she ought to "act like a lady."

As Bachmann finished describing tax policies she would ideally pursue in 2010, Specter began his response, criticizing the congresswoman for dodging the original question. That discussion became tense, as Bachmann continued to talk over Specter, prompting the Pennsylvania senator to charge: "Now wait a minute. I'll stop and you can talk... I'll treat you like a lady. So act like one."

"I am a lady," Bachmann replied.

The conversation continued, with the two prodding each other about "prosperity," until Bachmann interrupted Specter once more.

And, once again, the Pennsylvania Democrat fired back his line: "Now wait a minute, don't interrupt me. I didn't interrupt you. Act like a lady."

Bachmann replied in kind, noting, "I think I am a lady." And Specter, sensing this line of attack was going nowhere, said: "I think you are too, that's why I'm treating you like one."

[Update, 7:36 p.m.] The National Republican Senatorial Committee fired back at Specter in a statement late Thursday.

“Instead of belittling his female colleagues, Arlen Specter should take his own advice and act like a gentleman," said Amber Wilkerson Marchand, NRSC Spokeswoman. "Women in Pennsylvania don’t appreciate Specter’s demeaning tone anymore than they approve of his votes for the failed stimulus debacle and the massive health care bill, and they will hold him accountable for both if he makes it to the General Election in November.”

(h/t Star-Tribune, which has the audio)