McG of H: "You mean to say that most Americans wouldn't laugh at this bloke, in between feeling embarassed perhaps?"

I fervently hope that "most" would. What worries me is that there are so many who would not (especially with the help of Fox News, who put on people like this guy (and seem to take him/them quite seriously) and let them get away with shouting down anyone with an opposing opinion).

Steve, LH & Richard, of course there are WAY more important reasons for me/us to be embarrassed. This guy is just a (to me) very new one (though I'm sure that if I still lived in the US, I would have come across him before now). And I think it can't hurt for my fellow countrypersons to see how someone like this comes across to folks in other countries - the clip I linked to is something other USians are otherwise unlikely to see.

I think what makes me particularly cringe about him is that - in addition to being what I would consider an OTT right-wing nutter - he is so boorish; exemplifies/amplifies all the already-existing stereotypes of ugly, obnoxious USians (which - as a USian living abroad - I admit I may well be extra sensitive about). Yes, the US does not have a monopoly on assholes, but it makes me wince to see someone so completely reinforcing the image of the self-important, intolerant, insensitive and incredibly rude USian.

Upon reflection, though, I think I would be more worried if he was smooth and charming...