Better Debate

Libertarian Jon Henke writes in his blog today about the need for the Right to disassociate itself from the crazies:

In the 1960's, William F. Buckley denounced the John Birch Society leadership for being "so far removed from common sense" and later said "We cannot allow the emblem of irresponsibility to attach to the conservative banner."

The Birthers are the Birchers of our time, and WorldNetDaily is their pamphlet. The Right has mostly ignored these embarrassing people and organizations, but some people and organizations inexplicably choose to support WND through advertising and email list rental or other collaboration.

I agree, although to my own detriment, as I did not find myself in agreement with Buckley very often but do think the Conservative Movement will be a lot more powerful again if it can follow Henke's prescription.

On the flip side, Sen. Al Franken (D-MN) shows not only how to chill out teabaggers with calm, sensible talk, but actually outlines in just under ten minutes most of the key issues in the health care/insurance reform debate, including the legitimate question of cost:



Good stuff -- Franken proving he's worthy of the office. Can you imagine Norm Coleman outlining the debate fairly, clearly, even while acknowledging the inherent complexities to be grapple with like this?

I didn't think so.