City Council President Herb Wesson today defended Mayor Eric Garcetti’s use of an expletive during a rally celebrating the Los Angeles Kings’ Stanley Cup Victory, saying it’s time to move on.
“I think he was genuine and he was excited and he was emotional,” Wesson said after this morning’ council meeting.
Garcetti, wearing a Kings jersey, stood at the microphone on the Staples Center ice Monday, and told the crowd there are a few rules in politics.
“They say never, ever be pictured with a drink in your hand and never swear, but this is a big (expletive) day,” Garcetti said, drawing a roar from the crowd and laughs and applause from the Kings players.
The mayor’s office then posted on Twitter, “There are a few rules in politics, one is never swear, but this is a #BFD.”
The rally was televised live on Fox Sports West, and a commentator apologized to viewers after the network failed to censor the offending word.
During an appearance last night on the ABC late-night talk show “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” Garcetti said, “I got a little ahead of myself … You gotta remember, we didn’t win at lawn bowling. We won in hockey. Kids out there, do not say what your mayor said today.”
Councilman Joe Buscaino said following today’s council meeting it was no surprise that people at the rally — including the Kings players — stood and applauded after the comment.
“It was an exciting moment and I can’t believe just one word has sparked so much interest and debate within our city,” Buscaino said, adding that he tells his kids not to repeat bad words.
Wesson said Los Angeles has a good mayor who works hard.
“It’s time for us to move on,” Wesson said.
