Barbara Boxer has earned the title “Senator” and would like that acknowledged when being addressed.
Senator Boxer (D-CA) addressed the issue with Brigadier General Michael Walsh on Tuesday, when he repeatedly replied, “Yes, ma’am,” and “No, ma’am,” while answering her questions during a Senate hearing on New Orleans’ levee system.
“Could you say ‘senator’ instead of ‘ma’am?’ It’s just a thing. I worked so hard to get that title. I’d appreciate it,” said Boxer.
A furor has ensued, with some conservative bloggers claiming that Senator Boxer’s comment was an insult to the military.
Barbara Boxer obviously has no respect for the military and their customs. Someone needs to tell her that Senators aren’t in the chain of command either. – Bungalow Bill’s
Perhaps it’s time for Barbara Boxer to have a new title: “Ex-Senator.” – Bully Pulpit
While I understand the Senator’s desire to have her position acknowledged, General Walsh was not out of line in addressing her as “ma’am.” According to the U.S. Army’s guide to protocol, members of the U.S. Senate should be addressed as “Sir,” “Ma’am” or “Senator.”
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