March 03, 2005
Look, what I meant was...
So, there are two rules that we should have all learned about politics. 1. Never compare anyone to Hitler or Terrorists or OJ Simpson. And when we do, perhaps in the heat of an argument, 2. immediately admit it was over the line and apologize.
Of course, esteemed politicians on both sides seem not to be able to grasp this rule. Sen. Byrd (D) is the latest person to violate both of them. He did clarify that he wasn't comparing the GOP to Hitler, rather urging us to heed the mistakes of the past and, essentially, pointing out that if they do what they want to, essentially it's the same thing that Hitler did.
So, you know. There you are. Apparently.
The sad thing is that the rest of his speech, with the exception of the incinerating imagery, was good stuff. Which has lost any meaning, because our politicians can't seem to keep any sort of perspective on what it is they are discussing.
Just like Hitler, they exaggerate and demonize the other side to make them less than people and easy to hate. Though, let me point out, I'm not comparing anyone to Hitler.
Just pointing out that if they continue down this path, well, we'll all be required to wear little mustaches.
But perhaps I've said too much.
Comments:Brett said (at March 3, 2005 03:30 AM):
I have to say that rhetorical comparisons to Hitler and Nazis really make my blood boil. It's tantamount to Holocaust-denial; it completely trivializes the monstrous evil of the Nazi regime.
And yes, both sides of the aisle are guilty of it, and should be beaten thoroughly about the head and neck with a rubber chicken.
Rick DeMent said (at March 4, 2005 12:35 PM):
I knid of wish Byrd would just go away, he is an embarrisment and the last vestage of the kind of democrate that gave up or joined the GOP.