Sussex Republicans demand apology over Nazi reference

The Sussex County Republican Party issued a statement Sept. 19, condemning a social media post by an upstate legislator equating military recruitment to Nazi youth recruitment.

About a week after the assassination of Turning Point leader Charlie Kirk, Rep. Eric Morrison, D-Glasgow, characterized military recruiting as now “full-on Nazi youth recruitment” in a Facebook post. He then linked an NBC story about how the Pentagon is considering a new recruiting campaign honoring the legacy of Kirk. Turning Point, co-founded by Kirk, is a conservative youth group that has chapters at college campuses throughout the country, and has expanded to high schools.

Kirk was killed by a shooter during a college debate event in Utah, and numerous news reports state the shooter engaged in similar rhetoric, calling conservatives fascists and Nazis.

“This rhetoric is not only deeply offensive, it is a direct insult to the men and women of the United States armed forces who have made the honorable choice to serve our nation,” the Republican statement reads.

Morrison’s post remained on his Facebook page as of Sept. 25. A more recent post reads: “When fascism comes to America, it will be wrapped in a flag and carrying a cross,” an often-repeated phrase that originated in the 1930s. 

Daniel Willis, Sussex County Republican Party chair, said he took the military oath, and Morrison’s post demeans all military members. Willis pointed out that Dover Air Force Base is where every service member who gives their life overseas is brought home.

“To belittle service in the military is to dishonor that sacred process and the families who await their loved one’s return to Delaware soil. Democrat Rep. Eric Morrison has never worn the uniform, and while we respect the right to free speech, it must be called out that he represents a district that includes veterans, active-duty members and members of the National Guard,” Willis wrote. “The Sussex County Republican Party demands that Rep. Morrison issue a public apology to the men and women in uniform, provide a clear clarification and roll back his statement immediately. We encourage every Delawarean, Republican, Democrat or Independent, to call his office and respectfully demand the same. Our service members deserve better, and silence in the face of such disrespect is not an option.”

Morrison could not be reached for comment.