Watching the republican debates, the one impression I’ve consistently come away with is the lack of actual debating the politicians do. Where’s the open and respectful exchange and discussion of ideas and policy? Instead, it’s like first grade all over again with snide and irrelevant remarks shot back and forth again and again.

There is perhaps no better example of this than in the case of Ron Paul. I’ve found it remarkably disgusting how anytime Ron Paul speaks, he’s immediately talked over, the candidates sneer, the audience laughs, and the moderators make fun of him.

Even in this clip, Paul is posing a very valid argument, and we are subjected to a split screen of John McCain jeering at Paul. When the commentator asks Paul if he is “actually electable,” there’s no mistaking his mocking tone and hints of laughter. Then the audience took their turn laughing.

Even if you don’t agree with the guy, at least treat him with some dignity and allow him to voice his stance on the issues — the Republican party as a whole has come to be defined as such an ignorant and vicious mob.

Ok, I’ll put my soapbox away now…