WASHINGTON — A congressman says comedian Bill Maher's (search) comment that the U.S. military has already recruited all the "low-lying fruit" is possibly treasonous and at least grounds to cancel the show.

Rep. Spencer Bachus , R-Ala., takes issue with remarks on HBO's "Real Time With Bill Maher," first aired May 13, in which Maher points out the Army missed its recruiting goal by 42 percent in April.

"More people joined the Michael Jackson fan club," Maher said. "We've done picked all the low-lying Lynndie England fruit, and now we need warm bodies."

This is insane. While I may disagree with what Maher said, I do support his right to say it. While I am not in favor of 100% free speech either, the context of Maher's show, comedy, affords him extra breathing room. And as Maher himself said in a statement earlier today:

"Anyone who knows anything about my views and has watched my show knows that I have nothing but the highest regard for the men and women serving this country around the world," Maher said in the statement.

I don't watch Maher's show, but I do hope he remains on the air.

Posted by Ryan S. on Monday, May 23, 2005 at 11:28 PM | Permalink |