Is calling the protesters at your event "un-American" the best political path?

Speaker Nancy Pelosi and House Majority Leader Steny Hoyer think so, with their op-ed in this morning's USA Today saying that "drowning out opposing views is simply un-American."

They're obviously pushing for a more civil debate, but this is one of those phrases that could backfire.

More from the top Dem leaders in USAT:

"It is now evident that an ugly campaign is underway not merely to misrepresent the health insurance reform legislation, but to disrupt public meetings and prevent members of Congress and constituents from conducting a civil dialogue. These tactics have included hanging in effigy one Democratic member of Congress in Maryland and protesters holding a sign displaying a tombstone with the name of another congressman in Texas, where protesters also shouted "Just say no!" drowning out those who wanted to hold a substantive discussion." - Politico

It is UnAmerican to stand up for what you believe? It is UnAmerican to hold your Representatives accountable?

Seriously?!!