"In other words, a typical experiment in liberal bridge building.Start with an enterprise—an Islamic Center near Ground Zero—bound to upset some people. Lecture those with opposing views about tolerance and respect for the Constitution. Have the man at the center suggest on CNN that if he doesn't get his way, innocent Americans will find themselves 'under attack.' Finally, declare yourself shocked, shocked, to discover your plans have provoked large-scale public opposition and not a few crude rejoinders.

For American liberals, that two out of three Americans oppose the construction of an Islamic center on its current cite occasions no second thoughts. To the contrary, it likely confirms a view of the American people as dangerous yahoos. In fact, it probably confirms the liberal view that the war on terror is less a war against radical Islamists than a more general battle between moderates and extremists of all varieties."