Just Make Fun Of Them

Digby has written how George W. Bush will frequently bully his critics by singling out one hapless person and making fun of some personal characteristic. It's supposed to be "funny," and if you complain, you get accused of not having a sense of humor. Not long ago, Bush mocked an elderly man for being in a wheelchair:

There's an interesting simple psychology involved in such things. If someone can coerce those in a group to help him attack a single member they become his accomplices. For instance, getting everybody in the press corps to laugh at a reporter's baldness makes those reporters part of the president's gang. And, of course, it intimidates them. If they stray, they too will be subject to that kind of public humiliation. It's the evil fratboy theory of social relations, very primitive stuff.

Today, Bush turned and mocked fellow Republican, Congressman Steve Pearce of New Mexico, a conservative whose positions are nevertheless at odds with Bush:

Mr. Bush tried to strike a friendly, bipartisan tone. He warmly recognized Gov. Bill Richardson, Senator Jeff Bingaman and Representative Tom Udall, all Democrats, as well as Senator Pete Domenici and Representative Steven Pearce, both Republicans.

Mr. Pearce, whose district includes Artesia, differs sharply with Mr. Bush on immigration policy, but the president greeted him like a friend and ally, kidding him for seeking shelter from the heat. "Pearce has got that umbrella up because he's bald-headed," Mr. Bush said as the crowd erupted in laughter. "He's also a fine Congressman."