Senator Umberg Issues Statement on Reps Marjorie Taylor Greene and Matthew Gaetz’ Proposed Visit to Orange County

July 17, 2021

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: July 17, 2021

CONTACT: Jonathan.Davis@sen.ca.gov, (916) 502-7674

 

              Senator Umberg Issues Statement on Reps Marjorie Taylor Greene and Matthew Gaetz’ Proposed Visit to Orange County

 

(Sacramento, CA) – In response to news that U.S. Representatives Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-Georgia) and Matthew Gaetz (R-Florida) were hoping to bring their “America First” rally and campaign to Orange County, Senator Umberg issued the following statement:

 

Like many, I’m disheartened to hear that Reps Marjorie Taylor Greene and Matt Gaetz are hoping to visit Orange County. It’s hard to believe there are those among us — our neighbors, co-workers, friends — who identify with this thinking and may give these people a voice. 

It can only mean that we have more work to do to bridge our divides and find our commonalities. The First Amendment is resolute in its protections of their vitriol. But hate has no place in our communities. 

Check in on a neighbor or family member today. Talk about baseball, or the kids’ soccer teams, or an event at church. Let’s use today to reinforce the good.

 

In recent weeks, the Congressmembers have sought out venues in South Orange County, Riverside County, and – most recently – Anaheim at which to hold a campaign and fundraising rally for the America First Caucus, of which they are members.  The Caucus’ divisive platform, frequently called racist and divisive has led to protests and concerns across the nation, forcing the cancellation of a number of planned events.

As of this morning, reports were that a private venue in Anaheim had offered the duo and their followers space.  Though within hours, the event was being denounced by the Anaheim City Council and was again, canceled.  It is unclear where, if anywhere, the Caucus is looking to hold its next rally.

 

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Senator Thomas Umberg represents the 34th Senate District which includes the cities of Anaheim, Fountain Valley, Huntington Beach, Garden Grove, Long Beach, Los Alamitos, Midway City, Orange, Santa Ana, Seal Beach, and Westminster. Umberg is a retired U.S. Army Colonel, and former federal prosecutor. He and his wife,  Brigadier General Robin Umberg, USA (ret.), live in Orange County.