Politics: A Step Too Far

In counter-point to my own post, I'd like to say that while going for the jugular is good, being a racist homophobic idiot doesn't help.

Welcome to the culture wars of the 13th Congressional District, where Republican Vernon Robinson is trying to unseat Miller, a two-term incumbent from Raleigh.

In a year when Republican congressmen across the country are on the defensive, Robinson promises to turn the tables and make Miller's record and background a focus of the campaign.

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Robinson thinks he has a powerful issue which he can ride to Congress -- growing concern about the wave of illegal immigration coming into the state. He wants stiff fines against those who hire illegal immigrants and English made the official language in the U.S.

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Robinson has already run a radio ad that features mariachi band music playing in the background. "If Miller had his way," says the announcer, "America would be nothing but one big fiesta for illegal aliens and homosexuals."

First, this was an idiotic move. If you're going to say something inflammatory, do it in direct mail. That way, you can control exactly who receives your message. Second, when you're going to make an outrageous claim, try not to be goofy. A party for illegal aliens and homosexuals? That's just makes voters laugh. As an aside, I think I'd like to go to that party. The dancing must be awesome.