Political Party or Mob?

"The bitter divisions over an overhaul of the health care system have exploded at town-hall-style meetings over the last few days as members of Congress have been shouted down, hanged in effigy and taunted by crowds. In several cities, noisy demonstrations have led to fistfights, arrests and hospitalizations. . . ."

Ian Urbina, "Health Debate Turns Hostile at Town Hall Meetings," New York Times, 8 August 2009.

Many related stories may be found at the same site, including a timeline on attempts to reform American health care, starting with Teddy Roosevelt's promise to initiate universal national health care -- in 1912.