Oscar-winning screenwriter Aaron Sorkin made a rare television appearance Sunday morning on CNN’s Fareed Zakaria GPS.
The West Wing creator spoke about the new “crop” of young Democrats elected to Congress. “They need to stop acting like young people,” he said. “I think there’s a great opportunity here for Democrats to be the non-stupid party, to point out the difference.”
Sorkin then went on to address specific issues that the Democratic Party should focus on. “It’s not just about transgender bathrooms, that’s a Republican talking point. They’re trying to distract you. We haven’t forgotten the economic anxiety of the working class, but we’re going to be smart about this. We’re not going to be mean about it.”
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In response to Sorkin’s comments, Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY) tweeted, “News Flash: Medicare for All & equal rights aren’t trends. When people complain about low turnout in some demos, it’s not because communities are apathetic, it’s bc they don’t see you fighting for them. If we don’t show up for people, why should you feel entitled to their vote?”
Aaron Sorkin: The new crop of Dems need to “stop acting like young people” pic.twitter.com/qGZqWDpXi8
— jordan (@JordanUhl) January 20, 2019
Sorkin was on the program to promote his Broadway production of To Kill a Mockingbird. In addition to speaking about Democratic representatives, he also spoke about racism and the use of the “N-word” in the play. “It’s crucial that we see the casual cruelty that was going on,” Sorkin said of the word’s use in the context of the play.
On Monday, Sorkin issued the following statement to The Hollywood Reporter, clarifying his remarks: “I wasn’t referring to Congresswoman Ocasio-Cortez specifically, I was referring to members of congress getting into Twitter battles. I was referring to them getting into public spats with people who plainly agree with them. From what I’ve seen, I’m confident that Ms. Ocasio-Cortez is going to rise to the considerable challenge and serve in the House with distinction.”
Jan. 21, 11 a.m. Updated with Sorkin statement.
