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Colorado Republican Calls Colleague “Buckwheat” During Legislative Session

HeadlineMay 07, 2021

A Colorado Republican lawmaker was reprimanded Thursday after he used a racist term during a debate in the Colorado General Assembly. Representative Richard Holtorf, who is white, referred to a colleague as “Buckwheat” during Wednesday’s legislative session.

Rep. Richard Holtorf: “And I’m getting there. Don’t worry, Buckwheat. I’m getting there.”

Speaker pro tempore: “I’m sorry.”

Rep. Richard Holtorf: “Now, what I’d like to say” —

Speaker pro tempore: “Sir.”

Rep. Richard Holtorf: “What I’d like to say — that’s an endearing term, by the way.”

Speaker pro tempore: “Representative Holtorf, we must maintain order in here and not refer to any individuals other than — in any inappropriate manner.”

Rep. Leslie Herod, who is Black, rushed to the podium to confront Holtorf over his racist remarks as the General Assembly broke for a recess.

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