In the 18 months since the Tea Parties rose up against the elite and unresponsive political class, we've seen a string of viral videos catching their representatives on tape demonstrating their arrogance. We've seen an out-of-touch Arlen Specter, a clueless and apathetic Phil Hare, a pushy Bob Etheridge, a condescending Pete Stark, and a confused Lois Capps.
The latest video to make the national circuit does not deserve to be included in that Wall of Shame.
Democratic Congressman Ciro Rodriguez from Texas took questions from constituents, at what appears to be a restaurant.
"Ma'am, don't accuse me of not saying the truth," the congressman demands, taking a few steps toward his accuser.Someone nearby says something off-camera about his behavior not being appropriate. That seems to make Rodriguez even angrier. He slaps the table with papers in his hand, then quickly steps back. Not exactly menacing behavior, but not a picture of self-control, either.
It's not behavior you usually see from an elder statesman, but it's not something that puts Rodriguez in the same class of arrogance, as say, Pete Stark. While Stark deserves every minute of national attention he got with his unbelievable behavior, Rodriguez getting flustered at being called a liar is barely worth criticizing at most. I'm even inclined to understand his behavior--how many of us would stand being called a liar to our face?
Let's reserve our indignation for the elected officials that really deserve it.
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Eric Ingemunson's commentary has been featured on Hannity, CNN, NBC, Inside Edition, and KFI's The John and Ken Show.
Eric was born and raised in Ventura County and currently resides in Moorpark. He earned a master's degree in Public Policy and Administration from California Lutheran University. As a conservative, Eric supports smaller government, less taxation, more individual freedom, the rule of law, and a strict adherence to the Constitution.
