Right and Left Forces Joined Against Spam

Jun 13, 2003 11:11 AM EDT

WASHINGTON – The Christian Coalition teams up with Democratic Senator Charles Shumer in a fight against “the devil in the emails” – Spam.



"This is probably a sight you never thought you'd see in your life," the Schumer said at a joint appearance with Roberta Combs, president of the coalition, and Sen. Lindsey Graham, R-S.C., a co-sponsor of the bill.



With forces joined, the New York Democrat and Christian conservatives will work to establish a nationwide “Do Not Spam” registry like those used against telemarketers’ phone calls.



According to Shumer, rougly 20 percent of spam is pornography, and ergo a danger to Internet-surfing children.



"When an issue arises that we agree on, particularly to protect the family ... we all believe we should work together," said Schumer.



"When it comes to the family, we can work with anyone," agreed Combs.



Schumer appeared on the 2-million member coalition’s “700 Club” radio program with the group’s founder Pat Robertson on Thursday, June 12.



Graham said direct marketing companies with deep pockets have until now prevented useful anti-spam legislation. The spam bill, if passed, would establish criminal penalties, including prison time, for spam senders who repeatedly break the rules.



"The way you beat people with money is you unite the right and the left," Graham said.



Combs agreed, "Maybe we can work with Senator Schumer on other issues," as the senator replied, "Amen!"





By Pauline J.