Paul Waldman: Hoping to start a discussion to get the media to think about what they do and whom they book on their shows. People like Ann Coulter get these forums to spread hate. That's a real problem. We want the media to give thought to what type of debate they give to the public.

CP: What damage do you think that these figures cause?

PW: It debases the entire democratic discourse. They mainstream hateful, almost fascist rhetoric. If it becomes mainstream, it is a dark day for democracy.

CP: What do you say to those who think the First Amendment should also apply to these right-wing pundits?

PW: The issue is not whether they should speak; it's whether or not right-wing extremists should be given a megaphone and this type of forum. They don't have to be put on a platform to speak to millions of viewers.

CP: Why are they given such a platform?

PW: People who run those networks think that they need controversy to get viewers. The media has people thinking that this rivalry rhetoric is appropriate and people just get used to it, and think it's perfectly legitimate for someone like Coulter to spread her hate. There's a thoughtlessness that's at work.

CP: What would you like to see when you turn on the news?

PW: A balanced debate that doesn't descend into hate mongering. They should exercise some discretion.