A question for GOP after attacks on immigrants: Have you no sense of decency?

SACRAMENTO – U.S. Sen. Joseph McCarthy, R-Wis., rose to prominence in the 1950s as he leveled wild allegations about communist infiltration in the U.S. government. Communism was an international threat at the time – and some sympathizers had indeed gained positions of power – but his recklessness turned into a witch hunt that destroyed lives and ultimately undermined the cause he was touting.

His popularity collapsed precipitously after an exchange during one hearing, where he accused U.S....