As though political discourse in America hadn't already reached an all-time low, a new Web site, www.insultthepresident.com, is sure to lower the bar even further.
In an era where the most intelligent political debate is carried on with one-word trump cards - i.e. conservative and liberal - it is depressing to think that people would actually patronize such a ridiculous service. Although the president's approval ratings continue to drag the bottom of the barrel at 42 percent, according to a Washington Post article just before the State of the Union address last month, the real question is whether this service is actually beneficial for the American public or a clever way to make a quick buck? (Hint: Have your credit card number ready.)
The premise is simple: People can go to the Web site, write an insult (or have the site write one for them), have it mailed to the White House and receive a certificate of authenticity suitable for framing - all for a nominal $20 fee. However, after the initial shock and laughter, it is important to consider just what your hard-earned $20 will get you: a piece of paper saying you insulted the president, a $20 charge on your credit card bill and the satisfaction that for an extra $19.00 you didn't even have to buy a stamp or envelope, walk to the mailbox and send the insult yourself. Makes perfect economic sense, doesn't it?
The First Amendment does not discriminate. The freedom of speech is a right that all citizens - regardless of their idiocy - can exercise without censorship. However, let's all hope that after the initial novelty (and occasional laughter) wear off, people realize that criticism just for the sake of criticism is pointless. If you want to bad mouth the president, feel free. Just save the extra $19.00 and mail off the insult to the White House yourself.
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