Recently I listened to the radio program of Rush Limbaugh. I was displeased to hear that he is still the demagogue (person who gains power and popularity by arousing the emotions, passions and prejudices of the people) that he has been for the past several years.
I have no problem with a person who is fair and attempts to reach for solutions and to look for the middle ground on issues that face the nation. However, with Mr. Limbaugh, a rational format escapes his program. I hear nothing but verbal assaults upon listeners who call and challenge his "infallible" knowledge of the country's politics and politicians. Those who call and do not agree with him are chastised and dismissed, in so many words, as not knowing the facts. If the caller agrees, he is acknowledged and treated with warm accolades and dignity.
Mr. Limbaugh characterized an official involved in the Florida vote dilemma as a person holding Florida under siege. He says a hostage situation exists in Florida. Those who are opposed to his thinking were called political hacks. There was also reference to tar and feathering for some.
My issue with Mr. Limbaugh and his demagoguery is that demagoguery gathers large numbers of people who think only as their leader. Those managed nonthinkers are locked into noncompromising positions as they lock step with their demagogue. Think Hitler for a moment.
Rush calls himself "The truth detector and defender of democracy." With his clatter, I do not detect truth or democracy.
Ken Zenger
Holladay