White House invitee draws GOP ire

WASHINGTON -- Michelle Obama's evening of poetry at the White House set off Republican critics before the artists had uttered a word.

The first lady invited writers, musicians and a rapper to perform last night to showcase the impact of poetry on American culture. Poetry, she said at an afternoon workshop, "helps us see the world in an entirely different way."

The invited performers included former poets laureate Billy Collins and Rita Dove, Elizabeth Alexander, who wrote and delivered the poem at President Barack Obama's inauguration, and musicians such as singers Aimee Mann and Jill Scott.

But it was the inclusion of Grammy Award-winning rapper and actor Common that set off Republican complaints. Common is known for rhymes that tend to be socially and politically conscious.

Karl Rove, who worked for President George W. Bush, labeled Common a "thug" and said on Fox News Channel that the performer had advocated assassinating Bush and violence against police.

Sarah Palin tweeted, "Oh lovely, White House . . ." and gave a link to an article critical of the decision.

Common, born Lonnie Rashin Lynn Jr., took the criticism in stride. In a Facebook post, he said, "Politics is politics and everyone is entitled to their own opinion. . . . The one thing that shouldn't be questioned is my support for the police officers and troops that protect us every day. Peace yall!"

Rove's reference to Common's rap about Bush was based on lyrics criticizing the Iraq War that included the line: "Burn a Bush cos for peace he no push no button."

White House spokesman Jay Carney defended the decision to invite him and said reports about Common were deliberately being distorted.