You write a thoughtful post. Thanks. I think Reagan set a good example - you can deal with political opponents without compromising your principles. When he said to Mondale - "I won't make a big deal of your youth and inexperience" he really was funny (I now I didn't get the quote exactly right) - but it didn't *make fun* of Mondale - and the debate was essentially over at that point. When President Bush labeled Kerry as a flip flopper - he didn't cross the line - like both Kerry and Edwards did.
I do understand and agree that in politics you need to respond and respond quickly - and that politics ain't bean bag - but I think that true wit beats ridicule.
I agree.
Unfortunately, Reagan was one of a kind. Short of incisive instant wit, ridicule runs a close second as a useful political tool.
Churchill used ridicule a lot, as well as wit. No political or "unconservative" slouch, he....