Stand Down Rush

The WSJ allowed Rush some space in the opinion section over the weekend. For those not in the know, Rush decided he would invest in a group that is trying to purchase the St. Louis Rams but was subsequently asked to bow out due to previous remarks he made about Donovan McNabb. Rush takes an interesting tact to deflect his actions.

Rush considers others at fault for his actions and takes the time to point out that Reverend Al Sharpton and Reverend Jesse Jackson have made what he calls racist comments in the past. What right does the media have to ask these men about my statements - Rush implies. Since, apparently, in Rush's eyes, these men are the real racists. If you find someone else who did wrong, it excuses your wrongs?

Rush goes on to point out he believes in a "colorblind society where every individual is treated as a precious human being without regard to his race?". Here is the quote that allowed him to "resign" from ESPN.

"I think what we've had here is a little social concern in the NFL. The media has been very desirous that a black quarterback do well,'' Limbaugh said. "There is a little hope invested in McNabb, and he got a lot of credit for the performance of this team that he didn't deserve. The defense carried this team."

I'm not sure I would paint Rush's comment as colorblind? Additionally, Rush did not apologize for his comment but said they were directed at the media - interesting slant as the comments also appear to be directed towards the NFL and Mr. McNabb. At this time, the part about the NFL and Mr. McNabb is not a convenient truth.

In turn, when Rush decides he wants to be part of the ownership of an NFL team, he is perplexed that the NFL, the NFL players union boss and several players are concerned about him being part of an ownership group. Several players actually say they would not play for a team involved with Rush.

Rush fails to see that his actions have produced the results. He blames others, specifically the media, for the conflict and describes the media as a "cancer on society". Here is the cancer Rush, it is people who do not take ownership for their actions, who can't accept the outcomes they are responsible for. You say you will not go away. What will not go away is your racist comment and your failure to apologize for it. Maybe if you start with an apology others will see you have come down off your mountain. Until then, they have only one choice, to believe that you believe completely in your original words - and your original words were not colorblind.

Stand Down Rush