Dennigan defends radio comments about Langevin

Published Aug. 7, 2009 at 11:05 p.m.

PROVIDENCE, R.I. -- If Elizabeth Dennigan's week started out with a bang in her announcement that she will challenge U.S. Congressman James Langevin in a primary for his seat, it may have ended with one too.

Appearing on WPRO's John DePetro show Friday morning, Dennigan made several comments that seemed to refer to Langevin's physical disabilities.

Asked by DePetro about her opponent's shortcomings, Dennigan had this to say: "I did meet with Mr. Langevin a few weeks ago and I tried to make it clear then, and certainly will now, because I'm not a negative person, but as a nurse, I think I have some understanding of, and certainly can empathize with his physical challenges. But as someone who's an attorney and a lawmaker, I feel that I would bring a much clearer and more effective voice to Congress."

Some listeners took issue with the comments, calling it unfair of her to suggest Langevin is not up to the job just because he uses a wheelchair. (He was paralyzed as a teenager when a bullet accidentally discharged in the Warwick police station, where he was serving as a cadet.)

Dennigan said her remarks were misinterpreted.

The state representative from East Providence said she was trying to make the reverse point -- that her ability to better serve the people of Rhode Island is the result of her own experience as a nurse and a lawyer, and not because of the incumbent's disability.

Langevin's staff declined comment.

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