Applying correct amounts of scrutiny to one set of people, and abusive amounts of scrutiny to another, is still being partisan. Don't let them hide behind that.
Seriously. It's extraordinarily dangerous to our way of life to try to defend the IRS on this one because, I presume, you don't like the Tea Party. This isn't bad news for Tea Party or conservative groups. This is bad news for anyone subject to IRS jurisdiction. Who's going to be in control of the IRS in four years? (We're a ways out, but certainly decent odds it ain't gonna be someone with a (D) after their name.)