Errington C. Thompson, MD, describes himself as "a surgeon, scholar, full time sports fan and part-time political activist." It appears that Dr. Thompson runs a political blog at www.whereistheoutrage.net.

We know little about Dr. Thompson, but from what can be gathered at his website, it appears that he is an outstanding citizen, surgeon, radio host and community leader.  Given Dr. Thompson’s impressive academic credentials, we are surprised that he published an article on his website called "McCain, Pack Mule for Far Right."  (www.whereistheoutrage.net/wordpress/2008/09/03/mccain-pack-mule-for-far-right)  It appears that the article was originally published on a website called Texas Liberal.  (texasliberal.wordpress.com)

Now we have nothing against liberals, Dr. Thompson or the author of the article.  Diverse points of view and free speech are some of things that make this country great.  Nonetheless, we take umbrage with the author’s attempt at political satire which comes at the expense of the mule.

Comparing a mule to a politician is factually inaccurate and unfair to the mule.  Few would doubt that a mule is more intelligent than the average politician, better looking and would do a better job running the country.  Mules did not bankrupt the country; they help to build it.

The article boldly states: “McCain lacked the political courage to be his own man.  Instead of a maverick, McCain is a pack mule for the far right.”  The implication being that mules are weak animals.  The author continues by stating that “McCain is not even ‘stubborn as a mule’” thereby perpetuating a stereotype of the mule as being obstinate.

While we are fairly sure that Dr. Thompson and the author of this article did not intend to cause any ridicule to the mule, this illustrates how pervasive mule prejudice is.  We only hope that Dr. Thompson give more consideration to the articles that he publishes in the future.

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