Sen. Markwayne Mullin (R-Okla.) had an awkward moment during a committee hearing on Wednesday when he totally dismissed reality during a combative exchange about children’s education.
Angered by a children’s book about racism called Our Skin: A First Conversation About Race, Mullin said it was better to teach kids the lyrics of Jesus Loves Me instead.
He interrupted and spoke over panelists as they attempted to answer his question during the hearing of the Committee on Health, Education, Labor and Pensions, chaired by Senator Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.).
A panelist’s attempt to respond led to a memorable exchange.
“First, it is important that we teach Jesus, and Jesus is what we teach,” said Cheryl Morman, president of the Virginia Alliance for Family Child Care Associations. “But the reality is…”
Mullin cut her off, but Sanders interjected.
“Could she please answer the question,” Sanders said.
“No, I don’t want reality,” he blurted out.
The room erupted in laughter.
“Got it on tape,” someone said amid laughter.
“Mispelled,” Mullin replied with a shrug.