Overdoing it

I’m no fan of the war in Iraq. Moreover, I’m an absolutist when it comes to free speech. But the demonstration that took place today during Gen. Petraeus’ and Ryan Crocker’s congressional presentation left me shaking my head. It would be a stretch to call what the protesters in the back of the room did an example of free expression. It was an attempt to interfere with a presentation they disagree with. I’m sure it was well received by many ardent foes of the war and the Bush administration, but I seriously doubt there was one war supporter or anyone who’s still wrestling with his feelings on the issue who was recruited to the anti-war side by the spectacle.