Many have commented on the appearance of anti-Semitic material on Barack Obama’s official website. I can hardly be considered an Obama apologist, but on this I have to take issue with many conservative critics.

First, the Obama campaign acted responsibly and very quickly took down the offending material. Believe me, as one who has written on controversial subjects for a number of outlets, the speed with which they acted was impressive. Second, it is a dangerous business to get into the “look who they attract to their campaign” game. In an election with loose canons on both sides it is not clear who will come out the winner if you go down that road. Third, goodness knows there is plenty to criticize with regard to what Obama actually says and does. This strikes me as a counterproductive distraction for those opposing Obama. So sometimes it is not worthwhile or wise to pick a fight over everything.