David Weigel Explains Beck, Birthers, Tea Parties and Other Rightwing Stuff

After listening to this I have a better understanding of the rightwing. Terry Gross interviews David Weigel, who writes for the Washington Independent. He attended tea parties and the values voter summit to find out what makes these people tick. He talks about their Bible, not THE Bible, but the book The 5000 Year Leap. Glenn Beck is the new leader, more than Limbaugh and Hannity. Weigel says Beck is able to attract his audience because he always claims to be uncovering something. Essentially, the rightwing is motivated by one thing: Fear.

A must listen:

Harvey Milk Writer on Being a Mormon

I didn't know that Dustin Lance Black, who wrote the screenplay Harvey Milk, grew up a devout Mormon. He's also gay and his insight on the Mormons and their push of Prop 8, which passed and ended gay marriage in California, is fascinating.

He suggests that perhaps, the Mormons, tired of being the outcast Christians, overtly went after the gay and lesbian community so that they could be accepted into right wing Christianity. Not a good move if you ask me. Right wingness is out. 

NPR Host Terry Gross, who interviews Dustin, points out how odd it is that a group who was once -- and still is persecuted -- for religious beliefs on marriage, would so heartily go after another group. Dustin says that for Mormons, marriage is seen as the gateway to heaven.

Dustin appears to be saddened more than angry. He describes a tough upbringing in Texas, where all he knew about being gay was that it was a bad thing.

He considers the passage of Prop 8 to be an opportunity. This podcast is a must hear, especially if you voted Yes on 8. Perhaps it might open a few minds. The passage of Prop 8 in California is still a mystery to me.

I haven't seen the movie yet but this interview definitely makes me want to see it.