Terrorism is defined as the systematic use of terror. Webster’s defines terror as:
1: a state of intense fear
2 a: one that inspires fear : scourge b: a frightening aspect
c: a cause of anxiety : worry d: an appalling person or thing ; especially : brat
3: reign of terror
4: violent or destructive acts (as bombing) committed by groups in order to intimidate a population or government into granting their demands
I was thinking about this today and then started reading more about how McCain/Palin rallies are turning into a lynch mob wanting to go after Barack Obama – in fact some wanting to kill him. This is no longer confined to McCain/Palin rallies either. It’s now filtering down into the congressional races:
Thursday’s debate took place in front of a highly partisan crowd in the GOP stronghold of Middle Georgia.
Chambliss supporters waved “Saxby” signs and offered up a sustained “boos” when Martin mentioned Democratic presidential nominee Barack Obama.
“Bomb Obama,” one woman hollered.
This is very dangerous ground and instead of trying to calm people down, the Republicans seem to be salivating over such violent outcry’s from their supporters.
We also see that some of the more sensible Republicans are now starting to voice concerns over this:
John Weaver, McCain’s former top strategist, said top Republicans have a responsibility to temper this behavior.
“People need to understand, for moral reasons and the protection of our civil society, the differences with Sen. Obama are ideological, based on clear differences on policy and a lack of experience compared to Sen. McCain,” Weaver said. “And from a purely practical political vantage point, please find me a swing voter, an undecided independent, or a torn female voter that finds an angry mob mentality attractive.”
This isn’t happening though. McCain is showing how dangerous he is by allowing this to continue and Sarah Palin, well I think she is to stupid to know any better. I believe this is a perfect opening for Obama at next week’s debate to call on McCain to denounce these statements instead of giggling at them. If McCain refuses then Obama should file a legal complaint against the McCain campaign.
This is America – not the Middle East. Our leaders aren’t selected by murder, yet many on the right seem to want that. I believe President Bush should also make a statement to the American people trying to put this to an end.