That almost makes it worse, John.

To understand why I think so, cast your mind back to your school days. Do you remember the kind of kid who used to pull that sort of stunt? You know, the wannabe bully, surrounded by his clique of sycophants, who'd make a cruel or cutting remark, and, when called on it, say "I was only kidding. Can't you take a joke?"

Do you remember what you thought of those kids? I remember how I felt. I despised them as sneaks and cowards. And I still do.

That tactic is despicable, a mark of moral cowardice and intellectual bankruptcy. Now, I didn't hear the broadcast, so I suppose it is possible that had I done so, I would recognize this instance as merely someone getting carried away with the flow of his own words. In which case, Mr. Limbaugh might want to be a bit more careful so he can avoid giving more ammunition to his critics.

"I didn't hear the broadcast"

In that case, one wonders how you feel you have enough data to make such a strong criticism. Furthermore, one wonders how you can continue to link to John Kerry's web site (considering his history of making jokes about having the Vice President murdered) without the appearance of hypocrisy.

You know, you liberal/lefty/whastit guys really need to get over your fear of Rush Limbaugh. He's just some guy with a radio show. So he made Yet Another Tasteless Joke at the expense of the Billary crowd. Woo, it's Rush; what else is new? Stick it in the "Feminazi/Dittohead" file and get steamed over something that really matters.

(As you have probably guessed, I'm not a Rush Limbaugh fan. I don't hate him or anything, I've just never been impressed.)

Dave, I don't think that quite applies if it was obviously a joke from the beginning.

But I don't want to get too deep into defending Rush here. In fact I'll amplify my earlier remark and say it was a VERY tasteless and STUPID wisecrack.

I'll try to remember it and give some Kerry supporter a pass on something I don't care for...

You certainly can write well, by the way; you bring those bullies vididly back to my memory.

Andrea, Rush isn't impressive to people like you or me. We are witty and urban and sophisticated, or at least you are.

But think of the times when you've been benighted among the common folk. On the bus, or trapped in a long line at the supermarket among the tabloids and the astrology booklets. And you thought, "these people are SO stupid! If they can vote, we're in big trouble."

In that context, the quality of Limbaugh's discourse is surprisingly high. Tens of millions of ordinary folks listen to him, and he really doesn't talk down. He's got those jokes and wisecracks, but also a lot of solid discussions and facts and generally thoughtful stuff. He gives me a little hope for democracy.

Lance, I wasn't aware of such a joke from Kerry. Much the same criticism would apply. Not acceptable.