A Republican congressman from Texas defended Donald Trump’s language in the third presidential debate, saying Trump’s characterization of Clinton as a “nasty woman” was justified.
“I’m a genteel Southern gentleman,” Rep. Brian Babin told The Alan Colmes Show Thursday night. “I think sometimes a lady needs to be told when she’s being nasty.”
Rep. Brabin is a Trump supporter who said he thought Trump won the third presidential debate for “talking the issues.” When asked repeatedly whether it was appropriate for Trump to call Clinton a “nasty woman,” Rep. Brabin said “I agree with him,” and “I think she’s done some nasty things.”
The comment was one of the most controversial moments of the final presidential debate. Trump interjected “such a nasty woman” unprompted, as Clinton was discussing her plan for a social security payroll contribution plan. Clinton kept talking and did not respond.
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Write to Charlotte Alter at charlotte.alter@time.com