I wouldn't call that a "hit piece." Elected officials should be the most scrutinized people in the country, and criticism of centralized government should be encouraged. Look at how Southerners viewed President Lincoln 140+ years ago.
Frankly, what amazes me is that so many Southerners have made the Party of Lincoln their political home. The GOP has done little to defend Southern heritage.
The democrats have done everything in their power to attack Southern Heritage! What do you suggest as an alternative?