[Michael.SF.]

they just aren't as smart as they think they are.

I don't think they make such statements as a result of their own stupidity, they make them relying upon the stupidity of their readers. And that, my friend, is even scarier then believing that they are stupid themselves.

One can forgive ignorance, but purposeful deception is another matter.

[Hon]

"One can forgive ignorance, but purposeful deception is another matter."

Yep. And it doesn't get much more deceitful than quoting the NEXT SENTENCE after he just said we shouldn't wait until it is imminent.