Regardless of one's feelings toward the Tea Party or policies it advocates, Tea Partiers have at least, during their short existence, conducted themselves relatively peacefully and responsibly. Of course, this isn't to suggest critics won't still cry foul whenever a Tea Partier shows up to a public event concealing a firearm, or a Tea Partier displays signs at a rally capable of being interpreted as derogatory. But at least the right to bear arms and freedom of speech, unlike rape, vandalism, and drug usage -- all seen at Occupy Wall Street protests -- are protected under the U.S. Constitution.