Freedom of speech, rightie style.

The GOP is rather frustrated by an ad that points out Montana senator Conrad Burns' cozy relationship with embattled lobbyist Jack Abramoff. And they're probably none too happy with the popularity of Democratic governor Brian Schweitzer. So they respond by exercising their right to free speech! By which I mean they're trying to strongarm the station running the ad to kill it. By threatening litigation. The link above will take you to the letter itself.

I'm pretty sure I read just yesterday that Burns is actually one of the biggest recipients of Abramoff's filthy lucre. But, you know, the checks aren't signed by Jack himself. So the GOP claim of "defamation" is tenuous at best. So what? The goal isn't justice, but to get the station to cave in because of the inconvenience of dealing with a lawsuit.

This is just the sort of thing that-- were it to actually be covered by the mainstream press-- would really annoy most Americans, who generally don't look kindly on shysterism and abuse of power. But, alas, the right-wing media machine still shouts down anyone who dares to disagree...

UPDATE: the Dems have responded to the attack in just the right way-- with facts, not threats. Good work, fellas.