We knew that Rush Limbaugh couldn't resist reaching down into the muck too long after the election. But he may have set a new low with the latest instance of his latest obsession with cars, perks and chauffeurs. The radio talk-show host accused Democratic leaders of being "white racists" because of the contest among them to choose a House minority leader. One of the contenders is former Democratic Whip James Clyburn (D-S.C.), essentially the highest-ranking African American in Congress. Limbaugh suggested that if he loses, Clyburn should become the chauffeur for House Speaker Nancy Pelosi.
"Clyburn's worried about not having the perk of a big office, driver and so forth," Limbaugh said on his show. "This way this can all be worked out. Clyburn's new position: driving Miss Nancy. He gets to keep the car. He gets to go everywhere she goes, parties and everything else." Limbaugh went on: "He's not in the back of the bus. He's in the driver's seat, and she's in the back of the car being chauffered. Solved problem."
Don't hold your breath waiting for any Republicans to reprimand Limbaugh. They fear Limbaugh. As for the broadcasters who carry his show: no chance. They learned long ago that Limbaugh's race-baiting brings in the big bucks. And we at The Root are always fascinated by the specific nature of racism: Why is it that guys like Limbaugh can't get past the imagery of subservience? May explain why they have such a big problem with the Big O in the White House.