There is another element here and it has to do with expectations both from the MSM and the Right itself. We on the Right expect more from our leaders. The Left also expect more from our leaders. The left and the MSM have low expectations for themselves.
That is why Harry Reid and Joe Biden can say the things they say without consequences. The same for Candidate Obama referring to 'the other 57 States'.
It is also why Barney Frank can have boyfriends who are pimps and grow POT in his backyard and nobody cares. It is why Anderson Cooper can make jokes about 'tea bagging' on prime time without accountability.
Searching for responsible behavior from a DEMOCRAT or a member of the MSM is like trying to get blood out of an oyster. "AIN"T GONNA HAPPEN"
The Dems need political cap & trade like credits for all of their racial slurs! ;-)