Chilling Effect On Dissent

Unbelievable, how this story has exploded. But not as surprising when you consider how the media loves to talk about itself and, since most of them are liberals, agonize over what is acceptable - in other words politically correct. The Don Imus story has become an excuse to settle back for a long and vigorous high colonic. MSNBC has even prepared a graphic.

Turning it into a "bigger issue" is a convenient way to dance around the breathtaking hypocrisy. For example journalistic high priest Tim Russert was a frequent Imus guest, especially during book promotions. Instead of getting grilled about what he knew about Imus shtick and when he knew it (keeping in mind that Imus has been doing the same type of routines for 40 years), Russert, who earns his paycheck by giving leaders a very cross look, asking tough questions, and "holding them accountable" was allowed to make a few gaseous comments about a "national dialogue".

Coward.

The most important dialogue took place - between Imus and the Rutgers team, and they accepted his apology. This should be the end of it, but wait - Hillary needs a piece of the action, and has booked a ticket to New Jersey. Meanwhile the Reverend Al Sharpton and many on the far left are drawing up their hit list. For too long they've tolerated free speech from renegades, conservatives, and other dissenters.

Time to take them down in the guise of "national dialogue". Like all purges it will begin with a legitimate offense and then become broader and more loosely defined until anyone who doesn't hew to orthodoxy is a potential target.

Update: LaShawn Barber is worth reading (HT Axinar.)