The claim in the Post article was that he targeted ACORN because they registerd minorities. Regardless of whether or not the tape was fake, the assertion is clearly an attempt to besmirch Mr. O'Keefe's character and represention. Once you have characterized an opponent as a racists, it's easy to dismiss him.
The smeer also has the effect of discouraging others from attacking ACORN, lest they be accused of racism.
“Once you have characterized an opponent as a racists, it’s easy to dismiss him.”
It’s easier, granted. But whereas the public would be more than willing to believe he’s a GOP operative, I assume, it’s another few steps to jump to the conclusion that he’s racist. I don’t think they’ll make it across the gap.
Anyway, this is one of those Joe the Plumber things. The tape speaks for itself, just like Obama’s “spread the wealth” comment spoke for itself. It wouldn’t have mattered if Satan himself posed as a pimp in front of ACORN employees or posed the question in front of Obama. It would matter to some people, of course, but not enough to take away the issue.