Political columnist David Broder warns of a potential backlash for Republicans because of the heated town hall meetings many are attending to protest the Democrats nationalized health care plan. Here is a quick rejoinder to Broder and the big media that parrot this line from the FoxNews.com web page:

“News outlets that are focusing on the incendiary rhetoric of conservatives outside President Obama’s town hall meetings ignored the incendiary rhetoric – and even violence – of liberals outside an appearance by then-President Bush in 2002.

When Bush visited Portland, Oregon, protestors stalked his motorcade, assailed his limousine, stoned a car containing his advisers and chanted ‘Bush is a terrorist.’

“One protestor carried a sign that said ‘Bush: wanted dead or alive’ with an “x” over the ‘alive.’  Another poster made vulgar reference to the president. Another sign said “Christian Fascism.” A swastika replaced the letter “s” in each word.

Were concerns raised about all this incendiary rhetoric? They were not. They are now. Anyone see a double standard?

Cal Thomas is a nationally syndicated columnist based in Washington, D.C.