In light of Gianforte's attack was Malcolm right ?

[True Dough]

3. I see your point, but imagine

that Ben Jacobs fought back like hell. Let's say he landed a blow that hospitalized Gianforte. Other than the satisfaction of knowing that he defended himself, Jacobs would then have the worry of what happens if Gianforte dies or suffers permanent damage at his hands. He may face criminal charges himself because even though self-defense is a right, as you point out, the justice system doesn't always excuse those who do so.

The likelihood of Gianforte being arrested and charged is also affected. Even though the Congressional candidate started it, the police/DA may not have prosecuted had he been assaulted in kind. Public sympathy would also be swayed if Jacobs pummeled Gianforte.

So "taking his lumps" has, at least, paid off in criminal charges against Gianforte. In a sane world, the twit would have also lost the election, but that didn't happen, unfortunately.