RNC Chairman Priebus Praises Sony Move

Republican National Committee Chairman Reince Priebus on Wednesday praised Sony Pictures Entertainment's release of "The Interview" — lauding it as a salute to American ideals on freedom.

"This was the right decision," Priebus said. "Anything else would set a horrible precedent and allow our freedom to be ceded to the whims of a totalitarian regime."

Sony began streaming "The Interview" on the Internet for $5.99 on Wednesday. The film will premiere in 300 theaters across the nation on Christmas Day.

Priebus was among many Republicans who called on Sony to release the film in defiance of threats by hackers whom the FBI have traced to North Korea. Pyongyang has denied any connection to the massive breach at the Hollywood studio company.

Sony said on Dec. 17 that it would pull the comedy, which is about a plot to assassinate North Korean Leader Kim Jong Un.

President Barack Obama said that Sony "made a mistake" in its decision — and the White House on Wednesday strongly backed the company's reversal in a statement.

"It's important that American families are given the freedom to attend the movies — or otherwise enjoy time with family and friends in any way they choose," Priebus said.

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