http://stream.publicbroadcasting.net/production/mp3/wium/local-wium-944890.mp3
Macomb, IL – The panelists discuss claims that heated and divisive political rhetoric might have contributed to the shootings at an event held by Arizona Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords.
Pima County (AZ) Sheriff Clarence Dupnik said, "The anger, the hatred, the bigotry that goes on in this country is getting to be outrageous and unfortunately Arizona, I think, has sort of become the capital."
Panelists Rich Egger and Mike Murray say while there are limits to free speech - you can't joke about carrying a bomb on a commercial airliner - it's difficult to pin the blame for the shooting on rhetoric.
Panelist Bill Knight believes the shooting suspect is clearly troubled but also feels he was in some way influenced by abrasive remarks made about Giffords - remarks that might have been made in the media.
Knight does not favor censorship but feels those who produce content must exercise ethical judgment and good taste - though determining such standards is easier said than done.