Bortz blasts 'hateful' blog comments

In a comment to Tarbell and Thomas ran most frugal campaigns, Councilman Chris Bortz took aim today at "venomous drivel" by anonymous blog commenters.

What sent Bortz over the edge was an anonymous middle-of-the-night comment which, among other things, remarked about his campaign commercial "showing off his trophy wife."

Bortz's response:

Shame on you.

As a public servant and public figure, I expect criticism, be it founded or not. I expect mindless, heartless and ill-informed attacks going hand-in hand with more carefully considered and constructive criticism.

However, we must all protect and defend our freedom of speech. That means we must be responsible with our words. The most destructive consequence of our most cherished freedom is that too many people mistake defamatory accusations with reasoned dissent. That makes us all weaker, dumber, and angrier while also distracting our focus from high-minded public discourse.

Add to that the internet and its shroud of anonymity and our responsible attitude towards speech becomes even more imperative.

You have displayed a reckless disregard for others with your hateful comments. My wife is most certainly a far better person than you. She would undoubtedly advise me to ignore your ignorance, rise above it, and move on to serious matters. Of course, she would be right. Nevertheless, I feel compelled to invite you to come out from under your rock and deliver your venomous drivel to me in person. I can be found at City Hall.

You, Mr. or Mrs. Anonymous, epitomize what is wrong with America.

Shame on you.

Chris Bortz
Member, Cincinnati City Council
513-352-3249