Welcome to FR.
Of course, Sully is a hero. I doubt there are any at this site who would question that regardless of his political beliefs or affiliations.
My somewhat tongue-in-cheek comment was made to make the point - which you either misunderstood or chose to use as an opportunity to bash Rush Limbaugh - that Sullenberger’s hero status would be met with considerably less enthusiasm among some on the left, and in the media, after learning that he is a Republican. But, that they might be able to restrain themselves from finding too much fault with him unless they were to discover that he is Conservative or supports Rush Limbaugh, which likely would be more than they could bear.
As to Sully and Rush, I have no idea if Sully is a fan of Rush, although I’m certain that Rush considers Sully a hero. Rush would be the first to agree with you about those who actually put their life on the line for our country. He often has shown his discomfort at even being thanked for what he does by one of our beloved military folk, because he appreciates so much the special kind of person it takes to do what our military people do for our country. Rush is at the front of the line, however, when it comes to supporting our military, and he has put his money where his mouth, and heart, is in that regard. Likewise, he expresses appreciation for those, in whatever walk of life, who love and defend our Founding Documents and the way of life we enjoy because of them.
I think it’s possible to recognize and appreciate the contributions of one without denigrating the other.
well said LucyJo .