A state senator accused of being a racist is taking a low-key approach to the insult, though he admits it hurts. Senator Steve Ehlmann of St. Charles has been accused by Representative Quincy Troupe of St. Louis of being a racist. Ehlmann is white. Troupe is black. Ehlmann says the fact that the accusation first was broadcast on a St. Louis radio station makes it more difficult to play down. He says if it would have been uttered inside the Capitol, it would have been dismissed by reporters who know both men. Another senator has filed a bill calling on the state senate to formally rebuke Troupe. A state representative took to the House floor to formally ask for an apology. Troupe has told reporters he will not apologize.
