Big difference there Tom. The wife abuser is laying abuse on another entity. The US belongs to all of us, not simply the people flying tattered flags from their pickup trucks. Dissent towards our politics is an act of humility, something you simply don't seem to understand. When protesters were marching in Tiannamen (sp?) Square in Red China did you view them as weakening China's standing in the world? Tom, I can assure you that stories of political protests in the US actually increase our stature in the eyes of reasonable people throughout the world. It shows a conscience within us. Yes, there will be evil people that will exploit any actions our citizens take but in the long run the overall effect will always be positive.

By the way, there's no double standard here. I fully expect, from your politics, that you spoke passionately against our government at the times when it was more liberal in its policies, even when we were involved in military actions around the world. I'll always defend your ability to do so.