House Speaker Nancy Pelosi on Thursday likened the tone of the current uprising against President Barack Obama to the anti-gay political rhetoric she witnessed in the 1970s in her hometown of San Francisco.
Those who were politically aware during those times -- or those who at least saw the recent movie "Milk" -- know how that era ended. Two politicians were shot dead, including San Fran's mayor.
Why does the current political climate remind the California Democrat of those times? Pelosi said people have a right to voice their opinions, but that "I have concerns about some of the language that is being used, because I saw this myself in the late '70s in San Francisco."
"This kind of rhetoric was very frightening, and it created a climate in which violence took place," she continued. "I wish that we could all curb our enthusiasm in the statements that we make and understand that some of the ears that it's falling on are not as balanced as the person making the statement might assume."
While she didn't mention extreme talk show hosts like Glenn Beck by name, she seemed to indicate their influence.
"Our country is great because people can say what they think and they believe," she said during her weekly news conference, seeming to hold back tears. "But I also think that they have to take responsibility for any incitement that they may cause."
Besides Beck, however, verbal barbs have been flying on both sides of the aisle. Former President Jimmy Carter said race is a factor in the recent anti-Obama sentiment, while Rep. Joe Wilson (R-S.C.) was reprimanded for shouting "You Lie!" at the president during his address to Congress. And, of course, there is the constant bickering between cable TV talking heads like Keith Olbermann and Bill O'Reilly.
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But is the connection between '70s San Fran and '09 Washington (and beyond) warranted? Pelosi's opponents say no.
"The speaker is now likening genuine opposition to assassination," said Rep. Pete Sessions (Tex.), chairman of the National Republican Congressional Committee, told the Washington Post. "Such insulting rhetoric not only undermines the credibility of her office, but it underscores the desperate attempt by her party to divert attention away from a failing agenda."
What we do know is that something is bubbling up in this country, and it will be up to leaders on all levels of government to listen to the people, understand where their anger is coming from and try to work through any differences we all have. At the same time, the voters in this country should also listen and try to see how every action affects us all -- not just themselves.
If not, we may indeed, as Pelosi said, have San Fran all over again.
