Democrats told to get vaccinated is a slam on NASCAR fans

Being around NASCAR fans requires no inoculation.

That's the word Thursday from Republican officials after learning a Democrat-controlled congressional committee advised staffers to get vaccinated for hepatitis and other diseases before visiting NASCAR events in Concord and Talladega, Ala.

"Democrats should know that there is no preventive measure yet designed to ward off the blue-collar values and patriotism that NASCAR fans represent," said Linda Daves, chairwoman of the N.C. Republican Party. "If they aren't careful, they just might catch some of it."

A lawmaker whose district includes the Michigan International Speedway said Democrats must not understand the term "rubbin' is racing."

"To suggest that vaccines are needed to attend NASCAR races is insulting to millions of hard-working Americans who love their country and the smell of burnt rubber," GOP Rep. Tim Walberg said in response to an Observer story about the immunization recommendation.