re: damaging cars, getting physical with reporters, (patrolling polling places with axe handles, knifing get-out-the-vote bus tires), etc.

Are there any sites that document political thuggery? Snopes-like? Any and all political affiliation? Seems this is something we should document and insist on its elimination. (Perhaps IJ or another constitutional rights firm).

re: Coakley thug. I’ve met this type. Trained in “polite” physical intimidation (i.e. suitable for TV, shove and help-up, apologizing, then do it again). People need to practice sliding to the weaker side (farther away foot) when bumped-and-shoved, and pull that hand/arm/elbow forward as if you’re recovering from a fall (the assailant will stumble past you and fall if they don’t recover by taking a few large strides). Steel yourself and watch the eyes for the tell that they are going to get physical. If you want them to fall hard enough to break something, trip that same leg as it tries to come forward.