. . . the really, really bad . . .

Let me make this perfectly clear, a vote is an action, not a statement. I will make statements against certain of John Kerry's proposed policies by writing columns, letters, blog entries or diaries. Or I will take his bumper sticker off my car (it is still there, at this writing). Or I will simply rant. These things are statements. A vote for Ralph Nader is an action, one which will help to get George W. Bush elected.

That said, it is unconscionable that the Amarillo Globe-News responded to Nader's characterization of George W. Bush as an "out-of-control, West Texas sheriff" with a direct threat. Here's what the newspaper had to say, under the unsigned "Monday Briefing" heading ". . . the bad . . . "

Since Nader has been scouring the Texas countryside trying to locate enough recluses to sign on the dotted line and get on the ballot in Texas, casting aspersions against West Texas law enforcement might not be a good idea.

Cause, according to AGN: Nader exercising (however misguidedly) his rights as a citizen
Effect, according to AGN: Nader gets beat up, arrested, harassed, or . . . or what, Amarillo Globe-News? What is your point exactly? And why you harshing on Ralph, AGN? He's helping your guy.

SPACEDARK

P.S. Unsigned editorials: I have been specifically educated by AGN staff that the unsigned editorials "reflect the stance of the paper." Therefore, it will be the policy of the Panhandle Truth Squad to hold the newspaper as a whole-- not merely individual editors and reporters-- responsible for the content of these particular screeds.