Was there ever a time in America when political debate was civil? When ad hominem attacks on political opponents were off limits and respect for those fairly elected ruled the day? If there was such a time, I don't remember it.
Today's health care reform debate, for instance, which should be helping us understand a complex issue, often sounds like a vitriolic screaming match between two bitterly opposed enemies. Our President, and I emphasize "our" President, has been villified as both a socialist and a fascist by those opposed to his policies. And name-calling isn't the worst of what's happening...
Fueled by agitators on the radical right, encouraged by fearmongers like Sarah Palin who promote fantasy tales such as "death panels," and funded by deep-pocket corporate interests, mere political opposition to the President has risen - or should I say has "sunk" - to levels well beneath the expected dignity of a sophisticated democracy. The crazies are out there in force - they bring guns with them to tea parties and town meetings; they sport signs that morph Mr. Obama's face into that of Hitler; and they make implicit, if not explicit, threats against anyone with whom they disagree!
It's disgusting!
Whatever our differences, why can't we have civility as we discuss politics? With very few exceptions, our Presidents, our Congressmen, and our Senators are, and have always been, good people who are fiercely loyal to our republic and to American democracy and ideals. Democrat or Republican, they generally believe they are doing the right thing for their constituents and for our country. Sure, you or I might differ with them on policy or tactics, but let's conduct ourselves and our political discourse with dignity. In short, let's act like responsible adults!
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