As the health care debate continues to heat up so do tensions as avid proponents on both sides of the argument straddle the line between spirited debate and disrespect.  Such intensity has spawned several hate crimes which would seem to have very little to do with health care.

Georgia Democrat, Rep. David Scott has become the public bulls eye for opponents of Obama’s health care plan following his unprepared, bumbling rant during a recent townhall meeting.  The meeting which was originally intended to discuss plans for a new highway in the area, turned into shouting match in which Scott lost his temper and with it the support of his constituency.  (VIDEO BELOW) The chaos that ensued, sparked similar such reactions at subsequent events and has given birth to a cult-line opposition movement.

Tuesday a swastika was found painted on a sign bearing the Scott’s name outside of his district office, an act that reflects an increasing animosity over the health care but also demonstrates an increasing racial element. Scott, has also received hate mail with frequent “Nigger” references.

“We have got to make sure that the symbol of the swastika does not win, that the racial hatred that’s bubbling up does not win this debate,” Scott said in a PREPARED television statement. “There’s so much hatred out there for President Obama.”

Scott has been characterized as a moderate Democrat who represents a majority-white district near Atlanta.  He feels though the racism is isolated it can’t be ignored.  Scott’s Smyrna office is located in a bank building so local law enforcement have been reviewing video surveillance to see if the vandal was caught on camera.

This is just another indicator that racism is built out of ignorance.  Because a black man got into a heated debate with some white folks THAT ELECTED HIM in a small town in Georgia he’s now subject to racism?  The debate wasn’t even about an issue that divides along color lines…its health care.  Last time I checked both White, Black, Latino and Asian people all need to go to the doctor.  To make this issue about race and to target Scott is plain ignorant.

As for Scott, he unfortunately represents the ills of many politicians. As you can see from his prepared statement he comes across as very eloquent however when put under the gun by a group of angry taxpayers they melt. I think too often we’ve been lead by the over-prepared, over-polished politicians backed by a team of handlers who deliberately calculate their every move. 

When forced to freestyle, as Scott was at that meeting, their inadequacies are brought to the forefront. I think we should all be mindful when going to the polls to try not to be sold by the on-paper P.R. politics pushed by so many.  Elect folks that we feel are genuine, not only will have our best interests in mind but also come across like actual people.  That’s why I think America gravitates to Barack Obama. Now I don’t know if Scott has ever even met the President but he sure has created yet another giant hurdle for him.  He sure as hell should take some lessons from him if ever has the opportunity to meet him though.