Using that phrase was a hyperbole, I agree. But how would you describe people who actively participate in vigilante activities such as "border protection" "ballot box protection" or "flag protection" ? How about hose who openly encourage intolerance and hatred (e.g. on the internet, which seems common), cheerlead slaughter of other people by the US military in bards and public events, and vote for candidates who are openly racist, intolerant and bigoted? This goes beyond mere ignorance - it is wickedness by proxy. In fact I have more respect for a CIA operative (he is doing his job), than for these displays of wanton hatred and bigotry.
I am not even sure that very very few US-sers (America includes also Canada and Mexico, no?) can be rationally described in those terms. I do not have any stats, of course, but my impression from various snapshots (bumper stickers, bar scenes, internet chat rooms) is that this more widely spread than you think. For example, you see an arrogant asshole calling people names and throwing insults at others in an internet chat room, it is unlikely to be a Canadian, an Aussie or even a Brit. The chances are it is a US-er and most likely a male.
And how do you think the Jesse Helmses, Rick Santorums, and Tom DeLays get to the office, if not by the majority of votes?
Wojtek