Pat Buchanan and the GOP

What was the litmus test that Scott Harris described in his March 7 column? Clearly it was, how did you feel about the bigotry displayed by Pat Buchanan. The context was in comparison with [Louis] Farrakhan. To pass the test was simple. Just denounce his bigotry and state that Buchanan and his ideas do not belong in any party that believes in American ideals. Of major Republican pundits, only William Buckley had done so prior to Buchanan’s attack on downsizing and corporate CEOs.

The candidates all flunked! [Rich] Sybert had to give Buchanan an obligatory pat on the back before saying that Buchanan cannot define the party. It is tricky holding on to the white supremacist vote while still appealing to moderates. [Paul] Jhin also tried to have broad appeal quoting the “big tent.” Yes, we do have room for bigots, would be the natural interpretation. Of course, [Stephen] Brecht could find no fault. He is a believer! It is as if hatred of others is a minor character fault. Just look at his good side! Will any of them denounce Buchanan before the primary?

So where is the great fault line that Harris cites? It does not seem to be with bigotry or anti-Semitism. Buchanan seems to have brought the wrath of the GOP down on himself and forced the party to close ranks because he attacked the holy of holies, the core beliefs of the GOP. The business community can do no wrong.

EMIL LAWTON

Sherman Oaks