You know the Southern Poverty Law Center (SPLC) veered too far off the reservation when they became so ridiculous that even today’s limpwristed neo-conservative Republican leadership feels comfortable condemning them!

A statement, signed by twenty-two elected members of Congress (among many others), was issued to the press this week. It reads in part:

The surest sign one is losing a debate is to resort to character assassination. The Southern Poverty Law Center, a liberal fundraising machine whose tactics have been condemned by observers across the political spectrum, is doing just that. The group, which was once known for combating racial bigotry, is now attacking several groups that uphold Judeo-Christian moral views, including marriage as the union of a man and a woman. How does the SPLC attack? By labeling its opponents “hate groups.” No discussion. No consideration of the issues. No engagement. No debate!

Notice that the statement is narrowly worded to condemn the SPLC for its slandering of “voters who signed petitions and voted for marriage amendments” opposing same-sex marriage. Mark Potok’s response for the SPLC completely ignores this. As the petition says, “No consideration of the issues. No engagement. No debate!”

Yes, the silly coalition group compromises its position by pretending that the SPLC was once a righteous organization that fought against “racial bigotry.” And yes, a group led by cowardly lions like the Family Research Council and American Family Association will always fold like a cheap tent in the end, but at least they are feigning resistance this time, which is more than they usually do. We can only hope that the mainstream media will be a bit less likely to regard the SPLC as an authoritative source.

You can sign the petition online by clicking here.