A reader writes:

While I agree with what the kid said to Michele Bachmann, the way the mother went about it was inappropriate. I say the mother, because I doubt the kid really understood what he was doing and was simply following directions.  I honestly thought it was just as wrong as using - yes, using - the kids in the [above video].

Dan Savage, a gay parent, agrees. I felt queasy about it myself. Another reader:

I realize you didn't provide any editorial commentary to the link to this video, so I'm not sure I'm disagreeing with you here, but that video kind of makes me queasy. You have frequently lambasted Sarah Palin for using her kids as props in her political campaign; how is this any different?

Another reader contrasts the Bachmann video with one we ran yesterday of the 19-year-old Iowan: