Rep. Randy Fine defended recent remarks he made on social media after facing criticism over a post responding to comments from a New York City Muslim leader about dogs.
“You’ve taken some recent heat over an ex post,” Lotter said. He noted that Fine had responded to “a major New York City Muslim leader” who suggested “that we have to give up our dogs because, quote, NYC is coming to Islam.”
Lotter then referenced Fine’s response.
“You responded, quote, If they force us to choose the choice between dogs and Muslims, it’s not a difficult one,” he said.
He added that Fine had “since doubled down on a series of posts.”
Lotter also cited criticism from Democratic Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez. She called the statement “one of the most disgusting statements she’d ever seen,” according to Lotter.
He then gave Fine an opportunity to respond.
“Congressman, I’d like to just give you an opportunity to respond to the congresswoman there,” Lotter said.
Fine began by thanking Lotter for the chance to clarify his position.
“Well, I appreciate that,” Fine said.
He then outlined what he described as a broader concern.
“Look, here’s my view,” he said.
“It’s not enough for Democrats to think anyone who wants to come here illegally should be able to do that.”
Fine continued, saying, “They also think they should be able to get whatever free stuff they want.”
He argued that Democrats are “demanding that we change our values and how we live as Americans.”
Explaining the context of his original post, Fine said, “My post was in response to a major Muslim leader saying dogs should be forbidden from New York City.” He added that the reason given was “because to some Muslims, it bothers them.”
Fine then returned to the language that sparked the backlash. “Well, if they’re going to make us choose between our dogs and them going home, the choice is easy,” he said.
He also referenced Ocasio-Cortez directly. “People should know, Democrats like AOC are saying we are going to get rid of your dogs,” Fine said.
He concluded his remarks by tying the issue to the upcoming election.
“Americans need to keep that in mind when they go to vote in November,” Fine said.
Sharla McBride reacted to the broader premise of the debate.
“Yeah, it’s really just a wild concept,” she said.
“To think that people have to actually give up their pets.”