I’ve changed my mind on that slogan. At first I said it was a false alternative. But I think it’s a worse logical fallacy, specifically a variation of tu quoque (the “you too” rejoinder). The variation is one I see frequently in partisan politics, which is to use tu quoque as a case for one’s own side: a self-defeating notion I like to spoof as Your hypocrites are worse than my hypocrites.
In this case, it’s more like Your side’s screwup is more deadly and irresponsible than our screwup.
Afterthought: If you’re classically liberal enough to assume screwups in government, then you can enjoy the bumper sticker and coffee mug without irony.
