Talk radio: And now for their "prevent defense"

THERE IS NOTHING that more clearly defines the right-wing talk showmen than their outrage when their heated words are called to task. A recap of some of their comments by the New York Times reported that they even slammed the Pima County sheriff (see previous post) for "embarrassing" Arizona and "denigrating" talk show hosts. Oh?

Contrary to the hopes of their rational critics, such concern will be asking too much to tone down the rhetoric because, after all, that's what sustains the talkers, and keeps the cash flow healthy. What we will now see is more of their "prevent defense," which pro football coaches find so reliable when, in fact, it is not fail-safe. Rather than giving tiresome examples of the talk showmen's vituperative claims, which rather lamely blame an evil Democratic conspiracy, I'll leave it to you to decide on the merits of the showmen's high priest's remarkable response.

Thus spake Rush Limbaugh in his customary eruptive annoyance:

"It is our right and our duty to criticize the people who have put the fate of our country in peril."

We're disappointed. It seems to us that a man of his profound insights into Planet Politics should be reminded that his proverbs can rightfully work both ways.