The atmosphere in the University of Arizona stadium seemed more like that of a pep rally than one of a memorial, which was very strange. I have no explanation or even conjecture of why they acted that way.

Obama delivered a powerful speech, including the following plea for civility:

“If, as has been discussed in recent days, their deaths help usher in more civility in our public discourse, let us remember that it is not because a simple lack of civility caused this tragedy — it did not — but rather because only a more civil and honest public discourse can help us face up to our challenges as a nation, in a way that would make them proud.”

There is one reason why civility will not return to public discourse any time soon: money.

There is far too much money involved in politics today, which is why politicians and pundits will lie and incite fear and hatred without regard for consequences.

Glenn Beck, the leading right-wing conspiracy theorist and monger of fear and hatred, earned a hefty $32 million last year.

Sean Hannity, who just angrily repeats right-wing talking points, earns an estimated $20 million a year from his radio and TV show.

Bill O’Reilly also earned $20 million last year.

Rush Limbaugh earns $28 million a year.

It’s apparent that there is a LOT of money to be made spreading fear and hatred in American. Right-wing pundits provide the “facts” that right-wings want to hear. They create an alternate reality that makes their viewers feel good about themselves. Studies have shown that conservatives are more emotional than liberals, which explains their affinity towards Fox “news.”

Keith Olbermann, the top left-wing pundit earned $7.5 million last year. While still a lot of money, it pales in comparison to his right-wing competition.

Republican politicians receive a lot of campaign contributions from large corporations who benefit from conservative policies, which are promoted by the right-wing pundits.

So nothing is going to change. Obama can plea until he’s blue in the face, but until the big money is removed from politics, we’ll continue to see the flood of lies coming from conservative politicians. And as long as the right-wing sheep demand an alternate reality, right-wing pundits will continue to provide it. And why shouldn’t they? There’s good money in it.