Burnt Orange Report

Ann Coulter on Hannity and Colmes

By Byron LaMasters

I've been amused that the post about the arrest made at the Ann Coulter event last night has garnered over 50 comments today (thank you, Wonkette). I had no idea that this story would get so much coverage, but it's emerged as a national story within a day.

My position on this incident is pretty clear. The comment that the student arrested made was entirely inappropriate, and he should have been escorted out of the building because his actions were very disruptive and lewd. That would have been the appropriate response. I'm pleased that the University Democrats chose not to participate in the protest. The question asked only served to make those of us who think that Ann Coulter is a crazy right-wing nutcase look bad.

My problem with arresting the student is that it sets a slippery slope pattern. If someone physically attacks or threatens someone, then I have no problem with them being arrested, but I don't believe that lewd or disruptive comments meet that threashold. It's a slippery slope, because where you draw the line is so subjective and very open to interpretation. Should someone get arrested for saying "f*ck" or should it depend on the context? What about "f*g"? Should you get arrested for saying "a*s", or what about compound explitives?

I've forced myself to turn on Hannity and Colmes on FOX News tonight, because Ann Coulter is set to appear on the show. It should be interesting to watch.

Update: Matt Hardigree adds his thoughts here.