The blame game

On Saturday afternoon, I heard of the horrific shootings in Arizona. Not long afterward, I began scrolling through conservative websites for more information, and what did I see? I saw those making comments ignoring the fact that the shot Congresswoman was a Democrat; instead they denounced the killings and offered prayers for the victims. The few who did try to politicize the news were set upon by everyone and quickly ejected. Everyone understood that this was not the time for such partisan games.

Then I began hearing of all the Democrats and/or liberals who were already trying to blame Sarah Palin, Glenn Beck and the tea party for the shooting because the killer was "anti-government." This despite the fact that Mr. Loughner was clearly mentally disturbed, listed "The Communist Manifesto" as a favorite book of his and posted an online video of himself burning an American flag. Not a single notable figure on the Right has condoned his crimes, and yet, because Palin and others used war rhetoric in the past election, they have been accused of inciting this madman.

A question for Keith Olbermann, Andrew Sullivan, Paul Krugman, Jane Fonda and all others guilty of this amoral smear campaign: When Barack Obama said of Republicans, "If they bring a knife to the fight, we bring a gun," did he not also contribute to "a climate of hate?" And if so, when will you begin denouncing him as well? Where is your shame?

TRAVIS EAKIN, Bell City, Mo.