Condoleezza Rice Urges Alabamians to ‘Reject Bigotry, Sexism, and Intolerance’

Former Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice urged Alabamians to vote in Tuesday’s Senate election but declined to give an outright endorsement in the race, instead urging them to “reject bigotry, sexism, and intolerance.”

“This week’s special election will be one of the most significant in Alabama’s history. As a native daughter, I remain – at heart – an Alabaman who loves our state and its devotion to faith, family, and country,” Rice, who grew up in Birmingham, said in a statement to AL.com.

In what is likely to be seen as a shot at Republican candidate Roy Moore, who has been dogged by accusations of sexual impropriety, Rice urged voters to “take a stand for our core principles and for what it right.”

“These critical times require us to come together to reject bigotry, sexism, and intolerance,” she said.

In the lengthy statement, she did not reference either Moore or Democratic opponent Doug Jones, but made a reference to recent accusations against Moore by mentioning “side shows and antics.”

“It is imperative for Americans to remain focused on our priorities and not give way to side shows and antics,” she said. “I know that Alabamans need an independent voice in Washington. But we must also insist that our representatives are dignified, decent, and respectful of the values we hold dear.

While the statement is likely to be seen as a warning against voting for Moore, it could also be read as a push for voters not to vote for Jones — whose left-wing stance on issues such as abortion are out of sync with the values of many voters in the deep-red state.

“Please exercise your right to vote – a privilege won by the sacrifices of our ancestors.  Sustain the central ideals and values that make our country a beacon for freedom and justice for the sake of Alabama and for the good of the United States of America,” Rice said.

Adam Shaw is a Breitbart News politics reporter based in New York. Follow Adam on Twitter: @AdamShawNY.