How often have we lamented “trial by media,” which, of necessity, leads to the resignation of a Republican?  A textbook example is the media-mandated exile of Senate Majority Leader Trent Lott in 2002.  His crime: the twisting of his support of Sen. Strom Thurmond’s state’s rights belief into an endorsement of segregation.  For his “words,” he was forced to resign.

In like manner, should New York mayor Bill de Blasio be forced to step down for his words?  If you think so, you can sign a petition at MoveOn.Org (of all places)…

http://petitions.moveon.org/sign/resignation-of-new-york

Whether or not you think de Blasio should go, it would be interesting for the conservative media to see if it really has any muscle to flex and if it can copy the liberal echo-chamber and bring down a high-profile Democrat.  Picture fans climbing on a goal post after a big football game, wondering if they truly can pull it down.  If conservatives and Republicans want to be respected, they should understand that politics is a contact sport.  It’s not the particular battle that matters; rather, it is the willingness to even do battle.

And can anyone argue that New Yorkers are better-served if de Blasio stays in office?

Thomas Lifson adds: In answer to Bill's question, I am not so sure that Letitia James, who would assume office if de Blasio resigned, would be an improvement.  Her work ethic is highly questionable, and she is at least as hard left as de Blasio, seeking a special prosecutor in the Garner death and calling for an end to “political statements” (i.e., criticism of de Blasio) at the funeral for Officer Liu.

Be careful what you wish for.