Mark Levin’s opening comment, quoted by K-Lo, deserves a response.

He seems to be upset that there might be some animosity aimed at conservatives. Well, Mark, it’s earned animosity. And if he ever bothers to read this, maybe he might understand the animosity a little.

You see, Mr. Levin, it starts out with a clear reading of election returns. After a hard line was taken on immigration by House Republicans, we lost the House, largely due to independent voters, moderates, and Hispanics not voting for Republican candidates. As a result, we are dealing with Speaker Pelosi, who has not only endeavored to re-enact the Fairness Doctrine, but has also tried to weaken the motion to recommit, and who is also slow-walking funds that our troops in harm’s way need to carry the Iraqi campaign of the global war on terror to victory.

The short version, you failed, and to paraphrase Ernst Stavro Blofeld in You Only Live Twice, “This profession [politics] does not tolerate failure.” Yet you seem to be demanding that the GOP continue to pursue a course that led to disaster. The signs were obvious. In an attempt to purge Chris Cannon, the challenger netted 44.2% – and lost. In Arizona’s 8th district, Randy Graf won, but with only 42.2% of the vote – the win came because two moderates split the vote. Not being able to break 45% in two primaries, one of them in one of the most conservative districts in the country should have been a warning, Mark. You did not heed it.

But that is not the only reason there’s animosity, Mark. Something else is causing it: The rhetoric that has been aimed at those of us who support comprehensive immigration reform from your side of this issue. Not just Tom Tancredo claiming we are selling out America. It’s the insinuations of treason, Mark. It’s being accused of being an “agent of Mexico“. It’s being called a Quisling.

Now, I can handle a disagreement, Mark. But calling me a traitor crosses a big line. I’m not inclined to forgive that quickly. Forgetting is also very difficult. In fact, quite frankly, it is something I’m inclined to go to the mat over.

If you want the animosity gone, Mark – start calling out the rhetoric of those folks. Keep your side civil, and maybe I won’t feel so uncharitable over this disagreement. My co-blogger and I had a strong disagreement recently. I discussed that disagreement and how it stayed civil. Maybe Mark can pick up a few pointers about how to debate from that exchange.