The "Late Show" controversy is an excellent example of free speech in action in America today. Here's what happened:
1) Dave Letterman says something really stupid, implying that ARod knocked up Palin's daughter at a Yankee game. Palin was at the game with her 14-year old daughter.
2) Palin is outraged, with good reason.
3) Other people are outraged and demand everything from an apology to Letterman's head.
4) Letterman apologizes lamely, basically saying "Sorry if you can't take a joke." He said he wasn't joking about her 14-year old daughter, but about her 18-year old daughter, and invited Palin onto the show.
5) Palin declines, saying she doesn't want to give Letterman the ratings. Her spokeswoman tries to make a joke about not letting Letterman near teenaged girls. Also lame.
6) Letterman actually shows how to give a real apology, which is admit how wrong he was and why. Good for him. Doesn't excuse it, but good for him.
7) Palin accepts, highlighting her right to criticize Letterman and his right to not be funny, which he has exercised about four nights a week since moving to CBS.
Once again, we find that the best treatment for bad speech is more speech.
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