The head of Washington State’s Democratic Party apologized for a parody magnet version of the Christian fish symbol that was sold on the party’s Web site. “We didn’t sell any of them, and we’re not going to,” state Democratic Party Chairman Paul Berendt told the Seattle Times. Berendt said the magnet — a fish symbol with flames, a cross and the word “Hypocrite” — was offered on the party’s Internet site for about 48 hours, but was never stocked. The site also sells bumper stickers, buttons and other magnets with political messages. “The moment I became aware of it, I insisted it be taken down,” Berendt said. “I’m sorry if anyone was offended. It’s embarrassing.” Republican state Rep. Doug Ericksen called the magnet an “anti-Christian” symbol. Berendt said he thinks the fish symbol is aimed at “people who claim to be pro-life but are for the death penalty.” © Copyright 2005 by United Press International

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