Jesse Helms Dies at 86

Former North Carolina Senator, Jesse Helms died today in North Carolina at 86. Some conservatives would suggest that it is fitting that Helms dies on the fourth of July, as many in the far right corner of the party revered his stands against desegregation, gay rights and anything else resembling a progressive issue.

Democrats referred to him as 'Senator No' for his predictable and ardent delivery of his votes of rejection of nearly every bill any one of them sent to the floor.

Helms also took on the emergence of the pornography industry in the early 80s. Unlike many of those to follow him on the right side of the aisle, he was never linked to a gay tryst in an airport bathroom.

In his defense, Helms seemed to be exactly who he claimed to be; unapologetic and uncompromising. He hasn't left mourneres with a lot from which to choose considering his legacy is built on a foundation of fighting against civil rights. While I have nothing good to say about him, Jesse Helms was authentic and thankfully, one of a kind.
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