Glen Beck Wrong: 'Restoring Honor' Rally Won't Be Last Large Gathering at Lincoln Memorial

Based on a PolitiFact.com investigation, a report on CNN Sunday morning disclaimed -- in fact, shredded -- Glen Beck's ominous warning that his "Restoring Honor" rally Saturday would likely be "the last large gathering" ever allowed at the Lincoln Memorial.

During one of his June radio shows, Beck had said, "The government is trying to now close the Lincoln Memorial for any kind of large gatherings. This may be the last large gathering ever to assemble at the Lincoln Memorial. Historic, historic."

Beck continued, "They (critics) have gone on to say that this is a slap in the face of Abraham Lincoln," Beck said. "OK. So, I don't have a right -- I don't have a right to speak my mind and this -- I told you, the reason why 8-28 is -- one reason why it's historic is because it may be the last time anyone is allowed to hold a rally at 8-28, and they will -- they will couch that in, it's too sacred of a spot."

After PolitiFact checked it out, they received this "unequivocal statement" from Margie Ortiz, a spokeswoman for the National Park Service:

"There is absolutely no attempt by the government to restrict gatherings at the Lincoln Memorial or at any of our sites. There is zero basis for his claim." She explained that the Park Service issues some 3,000 permits a year for Lafayette Park and other park sites -- Lincoln Memorial included -- in the area of the Capitol.

Said Ortiz, "The Lincoln Memorial stands as a symbol of freedom. (It) is an American icon that attracts millions of visitors a year who seek inspiration and hope. Why would the National Park Service close the Lincoln for any kind of large gathering? Wouldn't this be contradictory to everything the Memorial stands for?"

Shame on Glen Beck. Millions of Americans listen to the conservative talk-show host. They trust him. And, Lord knows, there's plenty in government today to fear and criticize without resorting to outrageous claims to make a point.

For the sake of his fans, if nothing else, Beck should commit to basing his commentary on facts.