Now that President Obama has weighed in (and subsequently walked back a bit) on the mosque question, Democrats in New York are going to have a difficult time hiding behind the whole church-and-state argument that some – most notably Rep. Anthony Weiner – have employed to avoid taking a definitive position.

After all, if the project is good enough for the leader of the free world to discuss, why should a rank-and-file member of Congress not say where he or she stands on the issue?

At least that’s the line of reasoning being employer by Randy Altschuler, one of three Republicans fighting for the right to take on Democratic Rep. Tim Bishop in the November general election in Long Island’s NY-1.

Altschuler issued a statement today saying he “vehemently” disagrees with Obama on the mosque, but appreciates his “forthrightness for speaking out on the issue.” He called on Bishop to follow suit, saying the congressman has been “cloaked in silence” and has a “duty” to let constituents know what he thinks about this and other touchy subjects.

“Tim Bishop needs to end the silence immediately tell the voters of New York’s 1st Congressional District where he stands on this issue,” Altschuler said.

“Does he share President Obama’s belief that the mosque and Islamic center should be built? Or does he agree with the vast majority of Americans that the construction of this project at its current site it a direct affront to the memories of those who perished on 9/11? ”

“Congressman Bishop won’t speak out on the mosque or give his opinion on what should happen to his friend, benefactor and donor; the scandal plagued Charles Rangel. But, Tim Bishop and his staff seem more than eager to comment on GOP primary battle and a host of other issues connected to it that are really not his concern.”

“The leader of his Democratic Party; the President of the United States, had the courage to tell us where he stands. Now, is the time for Tim Bishop to find the courage to tell his constituents where he stands on this very important issue. Congressman Bishop, please speak loudly so the voters can hear you.”

Altschuler also sent out an “action alert” to supporters today, asking them to go to his Website and sign his petition to stop the mosque.

Share|