"If this thing devolves into the 21st century version of the Zoot Suit Riots, then we've got a problem."
I'll be surprised if we avoid that. Just the spirit of the times ... our world goes through periodic waves of paroxysm, and it honestly seems we're approaching the crest of one. And it's just so unnecessary. Prevention has only been impeded by sheer lack of will.
I'd genuinely like to believe that everyone will eventually come down...then set about figuring the problem out.
I'd add, that a lot of folks feel they're being hit on all sides. Price of gas. Fear of the housing bubble. Illegals threatening local wages. They're probably holding their breath hoping nobody runs over the family dog or tells them their kid is ugly.