Congressman describes Obama as 'uppity'

WASHINGTON, Sept. 4 (UPI) -- A Republican Georgia congressman reportedly used the term "uppity" Thursday in speaking of Democratic presidential candidate Barack Obama.

Rep. Lynn Westmoreland used the racially charged term while discussing GOP vice presidential nominee Sarah Palin's speech and was asked to compare the Alaska governor with Michelle Obama, wife of the first black major-party presidential candidate, The Hill reported.

"Just from what little I've seen of her and Mr. Obama, Senator Obama, they're a member of an elitist-class individual that thinks that they're uppity," Westmoreland said.

The Illinois senator's campaign did not address a racial aspect when asked about the comment. "Sounds like Representative Westmoreland should be careful throwing stones from his candidate's eight glass houses," Obama spokesman Tommy Vietor told the Washington publication.

Democrats previously charged Republican supporters of John McCain have used racially tinged terms during the campaign when discussing Obama, the Washington publication said.

"When I hear the word 'elitist' linked with Barack Obama, to me, that is a code word for 'uppity,'" Rep. Shelley Berkley, D-Nev., told reporters in August. "I find it extremely offensive and John McCain should know better."