Mitt Romney has some explaining to do, after appearing to praise the social work of radical Islamic terror gang Hizballah: Mitt Romney’s “Osama momma” moment. Here’s the quote:

Romney: …”Did you notice in Lebanon, what Hezbollah did? Lebanon became a democracy some time ago and while their government was getting underway, Hezbollah went into southern Lebanon and provided health clinics to some of the people there, and schools. And they built their support there by having done so. That kind of diplomacy is something that would help America become stronger around the world and help people understand that our interest is an interest towards modernity and goodness and freedom for all people in the world. And so, I want to see America carry out that kind of health diplomacy…”

It’s not a small thing to get this so wrong; it shows a frightening lack of knowledge about the motives and goals of Hizballah. I would be appalled at any Democratic candidate who expressed these kinds of views, and I’m no less appalled when Romney does it.

UPDATE at 8/3/07 9:52:36 am:

Romney responds, via The Corner.

GOVERNOR ROMNEY – WE MUST DEFEAT GROUPS LIKE HEZBOLLAH

“Governor Romney believes that bloodthirsty terrorist organizations like Hezbollah and Hamas have smothered the progress of the people and nations where they have built their networks, Lebanon serving as an example. These terror organizations cannot and should not be allowed to gain an advantage with the citizenry in Muslim nations just because they mask their terror agenda with an offering of some vital services. America can make great progress and provide more stability by creating partnerships with moderate Muslim governments to perfect the institutions of democracy and showcase the wonders and benefits of American democracy, such as our healthcare technology, educational institutions and free market commerce.

“By working with moderate Muslims to break down and defeat terror organizations like Hezbollah militarily, we can then turn to a new ‘Marshall Plan’ approach that strengthens the foundations of freedom and prosperity in burgeoning Middle East democracies.”

- Romney Press Secretary Kevin Madden