Political World Responds To Michael Jackson’s Death

Following Thursday’s announcement of legendary pop-star Michael Jackson’s death, the typically straight-laced political community offered an uncharacteristic response to the loss of the flamboyant, often troubled, performer.

On Friday, at the behest of Rep. Jesse Jackson Jr. (D-Ill.) and other members of the Congressional Black Caucus, the House Of Representatives observed a moment of silence for Michael Jackson.

“I come to the floor today on behalf of a generation to thank God for letting all of us live in [Michael Jackson's] generation and in his era,” stated a somber Rep. Jackson.

In addition, Rep. Sheila Lee (D-Texas), who hosted Jackson when he came to Capitol Hill in 2004, followed the heated Waxman-Markey vote by announcing her intention to introduce legislation honoring the singer.

While President Barack Obama did not issue a formal statement in response to the pop star’s death, Press Secretary Robert Gibbs did note that the President had offered condolences for both Jackson’s family and fans. Gibbs also noted that Obama viewed Jackson as a “spectacular”, albeit “troubled”, performer.

California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger (R) made the memorialization of Jackson a bipartisan affair. On Friday, the Governor issued a written statement praising the so-called King of Pop as “one of the most influential and iconic figures in the music industry”.

Michael Jackson, who recorded hit songs such as “Beat It” and “Thriller”, was 50 years old.