Question:

How should Republicans respond to Democratic calls for them to help end vandalism and threats of violence in the wake of healthcare reform's passage?

Answer from Abraham H. Foxman:

The most effective response to the vandalism and threats of violence targeting political leaders would be for the senior leadership of both parties, Republicans and Democrats, to stand together on the same platform, at the same time, and insist that the insults and demonization that have come to characterize our political discourse stop immediately.  Americans must be able to use political means – rather than violence, intimidation, or threats – to resolve policy differences.  

Four months ago, ADL documented an undercurrent of rage sweeping across the United States.  Unfortunately, that rage is spreading, like a rash, creeping steadily from the fringes of our society into the mainstream.  Our leaders should demand criminal prosecution for those who cross the line.  Acts like throwing bricks through the windows of Congressional offices, spitting on African-American elected officials,  slinging of  same racial slurs en rout to the Capitol – the same that Rep John Lewis was subjected to in 1965 in Selma, Alabama --  and mailing anti-Semitic threats are not constitutionally protected, and require a strong legal response.
 
It is clear that this warrants more than a one time condemnation.  It is time for both parties to condemn the hate and to stand together to demonstrate a new commitment to civility going forward.

The Anti-Defamation League, founded in 1913, is the world's leading organization fighting anti-Semitism through programs and services that counteract hatred, prejudice and bigotry.