It didn't take too long for Rush Limbaugh and his allies to come up with a defense for the "phony soldiers" flap. While the transcript makes it rather clear that Limbaugh was referring to troops who oppose the president's Iraq policy, Limbaugh, the Weekly Standard, and others, have argued that the far-right blowhard was being literal. In other words, when Limbaugh trashed "phony soldiers," he was referring to actual frauds -- those who claimed to serve but didn't.

I think an honest reading of the transcript shows otherwise, but that's the defense and the right is sticking to it.

Indeed, Limbaugh parroted the line on the air yesterday, telling his critics, "I never said what you think I said." As part of his explanation about being literal, and not metaphorical, Limbaugh cited Rep. John Murtha (D-Pa.) as one of the veterans who deserves the "phony" label. That would be the same Murtha who earned the Bronze Star with Valor device, two Purple Hearts, the Vietnamese Cross of Gallantry, and the Navy Distinguished Service Medal.

Got that? "Phony soldiers" was a literal reference to those who've lied about serving, a list which Limbaugh believes should include decorated war hero Jack Murtha.

Note to Limbaugh: quit while you're behind. You're cutting off your supporters at the knees and making yourself look even worse.