July 9, 2009 20:30

US House Speaker shoots down Michael Jackson resolution

Nancy Pelosi says the measure raises 'contrary views' about pop star's life

Photo Gallery: Michael Jackson
Photo: Pa Photos

US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi has spoken out against a US House Resolution that would honour Michael Jackson and proclaim him an "American legend".

Pelosi said that the resolution could raise "contrary views" about the singer's life and that she believed the measure was unnecessary. She added that lawmakers can already use House speeches "to express their sympathy or their praise any time that they wish."

The resolution was sponsored by Representative Sheila Jackson Lee, D-Texas, who announced her plans to pass the measure during a speech at Jackson's memorial service held in Los Angeles on Tuesday (July 7). She cited the pop star's philanthropic work and humanitarianism.

However, Republican lawmakers such as Peter King, who called Jackson a "pervert" and a "pedophile", has pledged to do everything in his power to block the resolution.

Jackson was acquitted of charges of molesting a 13-year-old boy in 2005, but the allegations have tainted to pop star's legacy in many people's eyes.

The resolution currently stands before the House Foreign Affairs Committee, and if it passes, will move to the full House for debate.

--By our Los Angeles staff.
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