Joe Barton Autism Parent Meeting - TURNED AWAY BY POLICE!

[ProjectHelpHealChase]

Great job! I applaud your effort!!! Keep fighting!!!

[kathyf11]

After the lunch yesterday at Midlothian and listening to Joe Barton talk he met our ADHD Autistic MR child and we talked to him briefly about all the chelation he takes removing metals. Joe kept looking away as I spoke he was not wanting to hear what I had to say. 08/22/2007

[kathyf11]

We ask Joe Barton yesterday about the combatting Autism Bill and the status of it and he had no idea what was going on with it August 22,2007

[webalex6]

Did you guys notice how nervous those office lackeys were? Like they were scared someone might try to tell the truth. Politics is a living conglomeration of lies.

[whitequeen96]

Bravo, Mike!

Louise, mother of incredible 10 yr. old son with autism.

[suuprslikchic]

I understand this is old but it is great to see us parents fighting to speak out no matter how much they try to push us aside. Great job Mike

[chuatakoon]

And they call this a democracy? Right on Dad. Joe Barton should change his name to Chicken Little, no disrespect to chickens. It's parents like you that make the difference for all of us with autistic children. All the politicians need to be video'd and it should be aired during election sweeps. LOVE IT!!!

[jazzobassoon]

very inteligent .but autist and in FRANCE no places for autist my soon is 16 old best regards

[boogi2thebeat]

keep up the good work.

[epsauctions]

If you get to see this, Thank You.

[eh1920]

Wonderful! Thank you.

[ElLooney954]

Much respect.Get intouch with me and let me know how i can help!I have a nephew whos autistic so i know what your feeling.I love that kid like he was my own

[thereallurker]

Barton is against helping kids with autism because burning coal and oil to produce electricity puts mercury into the envirnment and mercury causes autism and Barton is a lackey for the coal and oil industry.

[kathyf11]

You bet ,I live in Midlothian TX and Joe wants up to burn toxic waste at TXI he says we need to heat things up.

[Adrenalyn]

BRAVO BRAVO! This is what we all need to do, we have to stand up in the face of intimidation for our children, for our future!

[cedarmcox]

Wow!!! I love it! Call me, I will come with you next time!!!

[djfmitv]

Hey Mike,

Even though I'm from the United Kingdom, I do have High-Functioning Autism/Asperger Syndrome.

I can sympathise with you on the issue.

Watching the clip, I'm quite surprised that they decided to call the police only 40 seconds into you trying to talk to the representative in a peaceful manner. He really was offensive. If that sort of thing happened in the UK, I certainly wouldn't put up with that sort of intolerance.

Keep going Mike. Stand your ground :)

[cougars644]

Great job!!!!

[Adrenalyn]

Bravo, Bravo! I'm so glad to see parents being so proactive. I hope to meet you someday marching on Washington, or at some other venue fighting for all of our children.

[jmpms]

Thank you, Mike! Our kids need this!

[anniemac59]

Congrats... job well done!!!

[kingvitaman]

Thank you Mike. This man held up the bill, and I hope the voters remember this come next election. This man deserves to be kicked out. These type of politicians need to be held accountable for their actions.

[artech]

Good news. Looks like Barton lost and the people have won. The bill will now pass. Congrats.

[mystykit]

Terrific. If this wasn't here for us to see, Barton might have got away with it. I'm just Viewer# 45,173! Vote the bum out.

[mrflo2219]

Excellent job Mike!!

The bill expected to pass now... NO THANKS to obstruction joe barton.

[nkdmansam]

sincere, heartfelt. I really empathize with this guy and his one man crusade.. Fight the good fight

[taypow]

We have every right to be angry with Mr. Barton. Mike, thanks for standing up for us all.

[AquaVita2006]

Thank you, Mike!

Elena, a single Mom of a beautiful 11-years old boy with autism (PDD/NOS)

[pilotMSU]

Way to go, Mike. I do not know how you remained so calm. Shame on Barton's staffers for their apathy and ridiculously offensive attitude. I can't believe they can collect a paycheck and sleep at night. And to top it off by informing you that your donation to the party "won't get you anything in this office." Wow.

[Penske41]

What a terrific video! WTG for making a stand! I, too, am a parent of a child with Autism. We need MORE people like you!

[ImagesImagination]

Mike - have you emailed Barton and shared this with him and the Republican party? How about the Dems, this would be a good notch for them to pound especially with the election coming up. Joe Barton is a worthless puke who should have given you the time. Good for you - great video!

[mikebtexas]

All the associated congressman are aware of this issue. Barton so far has still refused to meet with my wife, me, or my son. We even invited him over to the house so he could see what a real live family with autism looks like...

[charmian6]

Hey Mike,

 Could you post your video from IMUS?

[BurnseyaTm]

I was at this meeting and I can tell you without any doubt that there was room for Mike. From the meeting, it was obvious that Rep. Barton doesn't understand autism, doesn't know anyone who is autistic, and he refuses to allow the Combating Autism Act for a vote in the House. At a time when Republicans need to show they care about children, they are still playing politics. ***Support the Combating Autism Act, plese call Rep Joe Barton and House Leader Dennis Hastert today***

[umyea]

Sorry that politicians who are supposed to represent people are so afraid of them like that.

[cjamer37]

You were calm, professional,clear on your points and represented who were are as a community. I feel most individuals who dont not have someone in their life with autism.. really doesnt know what it is like! The whole "walk in my shoes for a day" I think these politicians really need to do that to understand why we are so passoniate about protecting our children future!I am sharing this video with everyone on my list and asking they pass this on the everyone on their list!

[lorena24]

I have worked with austistic children for ten years. I am so glad that you did what you did to stand up for your child, for ours and inspiring courage. We need to stand up for what is right! Way to go Mike, you are the MAN!

[icontvmusic]

We are angry that our children are not being helped!! You better believe we are angry and we will not go away Mr. Barton!

[icontvmusic]

It is too bad Mr. Barton did not invite parents who could really share what life is like with an Autistic child. He only invited the passive ones who would not argue with him. Lets get Mr. Barton out!

[sawyerfamily]

Someone said you were on IMUS. Can we get a link?

[sawyerfamily]

You did a great job keeping these ignorant people talking. They must not realize that 1 in 166 means that almost everyone in their district probably knows someone with autism. Great job Mike!

[extexlax]

Thanks for doing this for all our childern. I admire you for being so calm!

[gedutilly]

Mike Hope your interview with Imus went great this morning. If I can be of any assistance feel free to let me know. Lets see if we can get you Harris to do a comercial with you to promote his campaign. We need Barton out of office along with all his staff.

[charmian6]

Just called (202) 225-2002. There is no companion bill in the Senate. They (Barton's office) they're "working on one". Yeah right.

So these people lied.

[anniemac59]

Many Thanks! I wrote our Congresswomen Nancy Johnson asking for help to put through the Combating Austim bill, but ended up getting a form letter about Grants through the National Institutes of Health/ DOD., which I think is something totally different (I guess I won't be voting for her). Thank you for standing up to all our childern!

[psyberdi]

Thanks, Mike, for taking a stand and representing our children. These government officials have allowed these vaccines and other pollutants to injure our children, yet we are the ones labeled as "vile." The only "vile" thing I witnessed in that video was a lack of concern for our children.

[charmian6]

This guy needs to run for office, for Barton's seat maybe. And is Barton's office staff dumb or what? "Yes, really" what's that?

[autism1]

These staffers looked a little unnerved by Mike. Next time there should be 100 parents with him-or 1000! We need to show our strength in numbers-God knows there are plenty of us with our mercury poisoned kids!

[djoziofam]

Kudos to you for standing up to the "big man." I have a son with autism, and I thank you from the bottom of my heart for not backing down from Barton's lackeys. Good luck!!

[andiesouza]

There are serious issues here!! Have you gotten a response or meeting yet?

[autmom07]

Good job to this dad. We need more people like him for our autistic children! Keep up the good work!

[waltusn45]

I am not the parent of an autistic child nor do I know any such parents. However, one need only to look in the dictionary under "DIRTBAG" and you will find a picture of Joe Barton. He is the best example of why our Government is broken, all of which needs an overhaul!

[regjohnson]

Mike, your self control is incredible. The fat slob male staffer obviously has never had his a** whipped.

[sawyerfamily]

Mike, I just saw you at the Dennis Hastert protest! You are awesome! Thank yuo!

[MommaMiaX3]

MikeB! Your video was played on IMUS this morning 10/31! I am a mom of 2 children with autism, thank you for fighting. We love you Mike!

[hanjkyla]

Thank you, Mike, for standing up for families struggling with ASDs.

[08642Ariel]

Mike, those people in Joe Barton's office were so belittling and ridiculous. You were calm and sincere. I hope more people go down to Joe Barton's office and ask him why he is holding up the Combating Autism Act as well. Thank you Mike.

[bojon91]

Thank you Mike! I am the mother of a beautiful 23 month old boy with PDD-NOS. I am figthing insurance myself, as research on autism "does not exist". We need this passed!!

Bonnie

[lesaland]

You did a great service for all in the Autism community. On behalf of our 14 yr old son w/Autism, THANK YOU!! How un-astute of these folk to feel they needed 911. Doesn't Barton & all the public servants remember they serve at the pleasure of their constituents? We got to YouTube from a UA e-mail. We've already called Barton and Hastert, w/o threats or vulgarities. If UA, ARI, ASA, CAN, USAAA, SAR, NAA, SAFEMINDS, Autism Speaks etc. has anyone else we can contact, let us know. Again, well done!

[oceola1]

Mike thank you for standing up for combating autism. As a father of an autistic son I commend you for what you did. After emailing our represntative BOB INGLIS of South Carolina the response we recieved was that a dollar spent on autism research was a dollar wasted on cancer research. This response was emailed to all the Autism organizations. Vote out BARTON & INGLIS!!! Thanks Mike and Imus!

[thatsnice99]

As the mother of a little boy who is on the autistic spectrum, I thank you! It took a great deal of courage to go into this environment. You were so calm! I am so sad for this generation of children who have been "lost" to autism. The only people who are able to help--won't. This video shows just how out of touch with our reality these elected officials are. Thank you for doing this and for taping it!

[eterniti1]

Another sad example of child abuse by our government all in the name of profit.

[rjgwood]

As the mother of a 4 year old daughter with autism, thank you so much for taking a risk for all of our kids!

[jkmm]

thank you Mike!

[saneff74]

Mike,

Thank you for helping us put a face the the unfriendly voices we encounter when we call. I just hope the voters take notice. We really need big changes in our political process. As a fellow autism parent I also feel that society as a whole has turned a blind eye to our plight. Admittedly it isn't always easy to look at but our children desperately need help!

[tods2000]

Mike--Is there some way to find out who is running against Barton in the next election, and give them permission to use your video in their campaign ads?? They could get a lot of press by backing the bill and using the video to bash Barton. I live in Plano, and have an autistic daughter, and if there is some le work to be done, I would be glad to help.--Tod

[gedutilly]

Tod,

The website for the democratic candidate oposing Barton is www.followmetodc.com. I personally started calling or my friends that live in his congresional district and emailed them Mike's video. So far 10 of my friends have told me that they will vote Democrat in their district after watching this video.

[TexasJD0001]

Mike, You reminded me of my literary hero, Atticus Finch. You stood up for those who have no voice in front of people who treated you contemptously. You stood up for my little boy. "Thank You" is not adequate to convey my sentiments.

[BigBrotheris0v0U]

Mike, thank you! Only with people like you will autism be addressed. I too have a son with autism. You are an honorable man who simply wants his representative to explain his actions.

[sawyerfamily]

Is Joe Barton up for re-election?

If so, we NEED to vote him out!

[Misslnformation]

The best way to take care of Barton is for the Democrats to take over the house. This isn't about Republicans or Democrats, but it's a surefire way to get him out as Chairman of Energy and Commerce. He's messing with the CAA, but he's doing a lot more than that by allowing power plants to be built that will spew even more mercury into Texas air and our fragile children. SHAME ON YOU, JOE BARTON.

[Shmeggegy]

It's unconscionable that one man can hold up this bill. It's a symbol of the corruption that pervades our political system.

I agree with the people who said you showed great character in remaining calm. I also agree with the person who suggested you run to replace Joe Barton.

Besides Imus, have you been in touch with the other celebrities who have supported autism programs? That could help. too. Also, if you haven't done so already, contact Doug Flutie, whose son has autism.

Good luck!

[harafarm]

How sad Mike

You walked into a whirlpool of slime. These two hacks had the nerve to argue with you and spin you during this whole conversation. What evil people to let money from the pharmaceutical companies control this issue. No child left behind indeed.

[thrillcats]

Thanks for going in there and standing up for our children. Also, thanks for having the courage to videotape it. Way to go! -Christine in NY

[dsp151]

"He's a chairman. That's what they do." Surprisingly candid (and infuriatingly correct) response of Barton staff member to assertion that Barton is single-handedly preventing a vote on legislation. If that is the legislative process as she claims, it is no wonder nothing gets done and it needs to be changed.

[LeoParish]

I live in Bartons district. I'll be voting a straight democrate ticket for the 1st time in my 33 years of voting.

[billh45]

Mike, upon reflection, I think it would be a great idea to get the minutes of the meeting. I am going to call Barton's office and ask for a copy. Everyone, let's call and request a copy of the minutes.

[2002TripletMom]

Mike, as the mom of two 4-year-old autistic boys I'd like to thank you for your efforts. You represented the autism community beautifully!

[santatecla]

As the mother of an autistic child I thank you for fighting for him! We need more people like you. It is absolutely outrageous the way you were treated. You showed respect, and this people were so unrespectful by calling the police on somebody acting the way you did. It is insane! No matter what they say they speak the mind of Joe Barton, and you can sense it in their words. They wanted to meet with people who will not discuss anything. You did great by staying calm!

[wwonka13]

It's refreshing to see activism in action for an exceptional cause. Why not get the Congressman's attention with a write-in campaign for Mike. He sounds like a good solid republican replacement for Barton in what is a solid RED district.

[jayzilla]

Imagine what would have happened if the folks had not video taped that meeting in the office. They both might be sitting in prison right now, and I am not joking.

One of the problems is that too many people do not care to get involved like the folks in this video have. Nice work Mike. Do not apoligize to anybody. People should be thanking you.

[jayzilla]

Early last year I was threatened with "prosecution" by a "special agent" from Homeland Security (Federal Protective Services) if I did not cease and desist from "corresponding" with Health and Human Services about an issue. When I tell people about it, many people assume that I must have done something to warrant the threat. In fact, the guy who called me refused to tell me what I had done to warrant the threat, and he ended the call by hanging up on me!

[chuckfromgburg]

Thanks... I thank you and our children thank you.

[kris72663]

They say that in order to get respect you must give respect. Obviously Barton's office does not follow that credo since you were most respectful and received nothing in return. Good luck in your fight. I'm fortunate to not have had autism touch my family, but I will be contacting Barton and anyone else I can think of on behalf of your son and all the other children who have this awful illness. God bless you and everyone else for your strength and resolve!!

[mikebtexas]

I sincerely appreciate you taking the time as a person not directly affected by autism to comment and contact your government representatives. Parents live this everyday but in order to affect change we need people beyond our immediate scope. I appreciate you taking the time to help be a voice for our children!

[kris72663]

Sent an email to Barton's office Mike. Unfortunately, it doesn't fit here. Great job on Imus this morning. America stands behind you!

[tlg847]

35 years ago I was part of a group of mental health professionals who led a community mental health center in Pittsburgh's eastern suburbs. Parents like you provided the energy to make changes in the service delivery system. If it were not for family advocacy millions of people would still be in institutions with no community care alternatives. Do not let politicians  or bureaucrats thwart your efforts. Your love for your children will make the difference.

[modest4u]

Mike, you were so sympathetic, sincere, and composed that when they grouped you with people making death threats (calling the police) (treating you like a criminal) -- I was almost in tears. You were so legitimate and they were so dismissive. I will pray for your son.

P.S. Joe Barton needs to ask himself when autistic-children became the enemy!

[dsfddsgh]

I notice Don imus is just killing this guy on his show even as i type.This is the kind of dirtbag that is in congress.Senators at least are a little more repected then these scumbags.

[guineapigz]

Joe Barton is stupid!

[carolinetraa2000]

Thanks Mike, RESPECT! I'm mum to Rebecca (9, ASD-colitis Diagnosed Krigsman NY, Oct 2006). Autism is Treatable! (www.treatingautism.com) Truth shall win in the end! Lotsa Luv and hugs from across the ocean. Caroline Traa, Aberdeenshire, Scotland xx

[abamommy]

Dear Sir,

I am so honored to have you represent parents of children with Autism to the country. You were articulate and genuine in your efforts in getting to the truth and make a change in a very corrupt system of politicians representing major campaign backers, rather than the urgent needs of the majority of their constituents, such as parents of children who are affected by the autism epidemic.

God bless you for your efforts and keep you strong for your child.

~Mother of two with Autism

[VAYoung]

You were very calm and did an excellent job of representing the autism community. For some reason my earlier comment was not posted. I would like to say that I find it interesting that they feared the parents. Innocent individuals are threatened all the time for speaking out on this issue on the side of the children.

[leapyearbigal]

I'm the mom of an autistic 8 year old. Thank you and your brave camera-warrior for doing this, I've sent it to everyone I know.

You two kicked Joe Barton square in the n**s. I have the stones to type the word, but my hyperlexic little man is reading over my shoulder and he's already asking me what n asterisk asterisk s means. Hang in.

Alison Smith, vile and frightening mom (but not because) of Evan

Latham, NY

[cbigbird1]

Only in America.

[morepuppies]

Thank you Mike.

[downwithignorance]

Good job speaking your mind and staying calm. When will this end?

[Tammyzen]

Mike, Thank you for helping our kids!!! All the way from Atlanta, Georgia!!!!

[darknight247]

Mike, thank you very much from a father of a beautiful autistic son, all the way from Southern California. Know that we are with you and support you totally. Will be following this know that we know this information.

[cormacthedog]

I call Barton's offices every 3 days to complain (Arlington and DC)and they lie to me every time.

1) That the house bill really doesn't have enough co-sponsors

2) The leaders of the Autistic community, like yourself Wendy are behind him

3) Now I tell them that I'm recording the conversation and they hang up everytime

[Zelinkokitsune]

100% Senate approval and overwhelming majority in House so this scumbag is a lier that hates children.

[thejohnandpetershow]

Mike, send this one to IMUS - let's get this on national news so everyone can see how well Congressman Barton communicates with his constituents. I think our nation needs to see this. Thanks for going in and attempting to make a difference.

[bspray1124]

This is another reason why I have started to vote for change. None of these politicians can manage the power of their office without going "bad" and serving themselves, and their own agendas, instead of the public that put them in office to begin with.

I'll vote for Mike to take Barton's place.

God bless you and your family Mike. Stay on task...you are doing the right thing.

[BIGSeanm]

You did an outstading job! I will contact Barton's office Monday morning. As a parent that knows exactly what you are going through, I have to thank you for what you've done, and the way you are doing it.

Had enough America? Keep this in mind when you vote.

[phatcat2k]

You were very respectful and received no respect in return. But most of us "autistic" parents are used to that, aren't we? Thank you for your efforts.

[LMiller1101]

Thank you for what you are doing..keep up our fight..the fight for our children.

[billh45]

Mike, thank you so much for trying to make the proverbial difference in the lives of our children. It must have been very difficult not to get upset with the mindless trolls who man his office. This female aide feels that SHE is the victim? Children on the autism spectrum continue to have their rights denied by the powers that be and by their gatekeepers, devoid of any semblance of conscience or heart. Joe Barton is now a national disgrace whose baneful influence stretches far beyond Texas.

[jenfol2000]

Way to go Mike! You met with my husband (along with a couple of other people) after this meeting...all I can say is that I'm as impressed with you as my husband was! Thank you!! Your interview in the DMN was wonderful as well! Hope to see you Monday at the demonstration!!!

[mikebtexas]

I wouldn't miss it for the world. I enjoyed meeting your husband and I am glad that he feels the contents of the meeting were fairly represented in my writeup.

[Misslnformation]

If the Democrats take the house November 7, Barton is out of a job as chairman of energy and commerce. America, you don't have to be in Barton's district to stick it to him the way he's sticking it to our fragile children. Get him OUT so he can't continue to damage our kids with the mercury spewing coal power plants he wants to let TXU build across Texas. GET HIM OUT.

[Misslnformation]

America - You can stick it to Barton even if you aren't in his district. Aside from blocking the vote on the CAA, Barton also has big plans to allow TXU to build 7 or more coal-burning power plants around Texas. These plants will spew toxins, including mercury, into the air our fragile children breathe. If the Democrats take the house November 7, Barton is out of his job as chairman of energy and commerce.

[jtp694]

Mike...I am a mother of a 19 year old son with autism. What you did was extraordinary!! You have done what so many of us have been trying to do. You have put it out there and now the public has it straight from Joe Barton's condescending employees. This says a lot about him and his office staff. Thank you from my heart!!

[Freyjalynn]

Mike I would like to Thank You for what you did.You are a Great Parent for Your Son and A Great Advocate for Him too! I hope this makes others out there think more about the problem today and do something about it!Kudos to you for bringing it into the public eye more.Thanks Again.

[princessputter]

Mike I thank you and my husband thanks you my 2 sons with autism thank you .. please keep this up god bless

[autismomX2]

THANK YOU!!! I have 2 daughter with thimerasol-induced autism. You are awesome Mike.

[deathtothecommoner]

Me mum says " It's time for the world to know how parents of the autistic are really treated." Aren't I nice to do this for her.(P.S. she doesn't have a youtube.)

[glee1989]

Thank you!

[maryann1067]

Thank you and may God bless you and your family.

MaryAnn McCarra-Fitzpatrick

Mount Vernon, New York

[kjmilton]

Run for office Mike! Joe Barton, do us all a favor and resign from office! It is time to trim the fat!

[momtobe98]

It infuriates me what Joe Barton and his cronies are doing. Mike you are an awesome parent/advocate and this shows exactly what we need to do to get our voice heard, and we WILL get our voices heard. Its sickening how they believe they're not doing anything wrong, but again, we all need to step up to the plate like Mike so this doesn't continue in our "democracy". Kudos to you for keeping your cool and representing our children with dignity and respect, something that is not being reciprocated.

[mommy28715]

Perhaps the father in this video should run for office, I have worked in the autistic community here in NC and I was sickened by the way the autistic community was portrayed by this so-called representitive. I certainly hope that people will not forget this when its time to cast ballots, I certainly will.. atleast its good to know that there are still people out there willing to fight for those who cant fight for themselves, thanks for that.

[somdgal]

Thank you for your bravery. "Autistic parents?" And to say that's the way legislation works? I am disgusted by the reception you received and the flimsy, arrogant, and condescending responses you received. Why weren't you offered an appointment at a different time?

[OrOsmondFan]

Thank you!

[megruskin]

Joe Barton avoids the autistic community because there is no valid reason for holding up this vital act. He is trading the needs of 1.5 million Americans to satisfy his own greed. Shame on Joe Barton. Shame on his staff. Thank you Mike for standing up to them!!

[reneetb]

You rock! We support you all the way - keep fighting the good fight - we're right behind you

Renee

CA

[missdawnb]

Joe you are an exceptional dad and human being. Small minded , ignorant people are the reason our kids are so misunderstood. You have nothing to apologize for.

[mikebtexas]

My name is Mike but I think everybody knew what you meant. Thank you for the kind words...

[deberooney]

Thank you soooo much...I wish my husband & I could stay this calm while these people ignore my son. I guess we are just vile then, huh? WTG Mike...keep up the fight...we will!

Deb and Steve K

WI

[JainaMac]

Thank you, thank you. We need people like you.

[gherhardt1]

I am a parent of two autistic boys. It sickens me that one Representative could derail Federal funds that would benefit our children. Do you have any ideas as to how we (parents of autistic children) could possibly influence joe barton to re-consider?

[texastardis]

A a Aspie parent with an autistic child , I am shocked by the tatitorous behavior or the man who claims to represent me. I too have called and was turned away w/n i tried to visit him @ Arlington

[julianirby]

I too am a life long Republican who believes in providing for the "truly needy" and thought my party did as well. I am ashamed Joe Barton, a Republican, has stalled this critical piece of legislation. His allegiance to the pharmaceutical companies at the expense of credible research to better understand this human tragedy we call Autism is deeply disturbing. I thought Congressman Barton was a man of honor. I was wrong. There is no honor in this.

[LetsThink]

MEGA THANKS, Mike! You and the camera have told the whole story!

[rainbrella]

This is very disturbing and is in no way the proper way to treat this very non-threatening Father. This makes me sick!! (Mom to an Autistic child who deserves better than this)!!!

[ormomoftwo]

Thank You!! I am amazed at how comosed you were, I would have blown my top. Thank you for representing us. You are a great man!

[Bardachmm]

I am a long time registered republican, but will NOT vote for the freshman candidate, Randy Graff(R)as he will simply be a flunky for Hastert, Barton and Frist.I am letting my voice be heard in AZ (my family is rallying everyone they know who votes) on behalf of my non verbal daughter with autism. If Randy Graff loses the election he can thank Joe Barton. Best to all, Maria PS When did Dwight Shrute get a job in Joe Barton's "office" -- and how was his sandwhich?

[mseagoe]

You are my hero. First it was because there wasn't enough room. Then it was because they felt threatened by you. Anything but the truth, which is that HE IS GUILTY. Thanks for fighting for my son.

[esweeney22]

Mike, Awesome job representing our children and our community. The toughest most rewarding thing we can do is to speak for our children and fight til someone listens. You remained calm and was able to voice our concerns. YOU ROCK!!

Ellen

NJ

[authoressnebula]

Well done indeed! I also wondered how he kept so calm.

[Autism1230]

Just returned from a Halloween party attended by 13 kids on the spectrum -- from all of us THANK YOU

[bubbleblunder]

You were awesome!  I don't think that I could have conducted myself as professionally and civilly as you did in this case. And thank you so much for vidding it and posting it so that the world can see how not interested in discussing the issues Barton really is. Thank you!

[ohmywhatsthat]

Mike you are a brave soul and you make us all proud. You handled yourself better than anyone else I know. Thank you for believing in yourself and our kids with Autism. You are amazing!! Thanks again! Susan

[autismmommichigan]

I am truly sickened by what I just saw. As the parent of a 12 year old w/Autism, it is sad to know that nothing has changed. Despite the rapid rise in Autism, no one is willing to step up. Thank you for stepping out on a limb for all of us. Shame on those who want to lump us all together as psycho parents. I only want my son to have a normal life - to have equal opportunity. During the civil rights movement. Many stood in the way. It is a shame to see that many are standing in the way again.

[AutismMom22]

Thank you!!

[philcommander]

YOU ARE THE MAN!

[fullhouseboyd]

Thank you Mike! You represented the autism community very well! Thank you for fighting for all of our kids!

[whitkris]

Good job !I am just amazed how you could stay that calm .

[Lalasfavorites]

You did a really nice job of expressing your concerns. Thank You. Funny thing is, I called them, and I was perfectly resectful, but never even received a respectful acknowledgement. Joe Barton doesn't care. I don't know how to make him care. Thank you for trying.

[damomom]

God bless you Mike. I have always said that although having a child with Autism is difficult it is also a blessing, because you learn to appreciate the little victories of your children. You also learn to have patience, a trait you have obviously perfected. You were able to keep calm and you should be congratulated for your demeanor. Thank you for sharing this with the world. Shame on Joe Barton!

[BiomedDad]

Way to go MIKE!!!!

[mimmom]

Beautiful. You conducted yourself in a calm and respectful manner while still getting your point across. This is a great way to represent us all.

Thanks,

Miriam

[wendysweb]

You ROCK!!!!

Wendy Fournier

NAA