Hannity *IS* an Ignorant Boob

At least, that's what Alec Baldwin says.

I've been accused of being a Republican hack. I'm not. I have no problem calling it like I see it. Hannity was acting like an ignorant boob.

Hannity is a polarizing figure because of stunts like he pulled in this exchange with Baldwin. Regardless of whether his points may be right or not no one is going to hear his message if he continues distributing it in such a polarizing manner. Calling Baldwin a "third-rate Hollywood egomaniac" does no one any good. People who support Baldwin automatically tune Hannity out because he's just being a jerk and people who don't like Baldwin don't need to be told that. They already believe it.

Why am I ranting about this? Because Hannity and others should use their platform more judiciously. Millions of people every week hear Hannity in one form or another. This heated exchange will probably be heard by even more. The problem is, he's not leaving a positive impression with anyone who hears him. To be clear, I don't think anyone should ever compromise their beliefs simply to be heard by more people or to leave a more favorable impression. I do believe people should be aware of the opportunity that they have, though. Rather than attacking Baldwin, Hannity should reach out to him. Be civil. Try to genuinely discuss the issues. Don't immediately put him on the stand and drill him, even if some of his statements are out there. Ask him why he believes those things. Give him an opportunity to explain why, by his own admission, he believes our Vice President is "a terrorist."

The most valuable thing an elected official, talk show host, movie star, or celebrity of any kind has is a platform. Unfortunately they don't all have the wisdom to use it judiciously.