When Did Opposition Become 'Racism'?

When Did Opposition Become 'Racism'?

South Carolina Republican Rep. Joe Wilson may have unexpectedly ignited an explosion of race rhetoric with two words in the House chamber -- "You lie" -- but I can snuff it out with two words in a newspaper -- "Jimmy Carter."

The former president threw rhetorical kerosene on the political flames this week when he twice advanced the lowdown argument that political opposition to Barack Obama -- in town halls, faltering presidential poll numbers, the colossal anti-Obama demonstration in Washington -- boils down to "racism."

The allegation is contemptible...