Joe Scarborough did not respond today on his television program Morning Joe to criticism of his speculation that suspected Colorado shooter James Holmes is on "the autism scale."

He did, however, email a pathetic statement to Mediaite:

During a debate regarding the recent Colorado shootings, I suggested that the Aurora tragedy should make Americans focus more on mental health in this country. I also stated that my own experiences raising a son with Aspergers made me keenly aware of how important strong support systems are to those who might otherwise be isolated.

The growing Autism epidemic is a tremendous burden for children, parents and loved ones to endure. My call for increased funding and awareness for Autism and other mental health conditions was meant to support the efforts of those who work every day to improve the lives of Americans impacted. Those suggesting that I was linking all violent behavior to Autism missed my larger point and overlooked the fact that I have a wonderful, loving son with Aspergers. Perhaps I could have made my point more eloquently.

I look forward to continuing my work with wonderful organizations like Autism Speaks to provide badly needed support to millions of Americans who struggle with Autism every day.

Does Scarborough understand that statements like his actually hurt autistic people?

Does Autism Speaks?

Will that organization choose to distance itself from his comments or will they continue to embrace the idea of demonizing autistic people?