[She's surprised at this question too. But it brings to mind her brother's idiot insecurities and her own upbringing - the only bender in a village full of other, useful people - where her one special skill was worth nothing.]

No. They're not. There might be a couple of idiots who would think that way, but while benders might be more powerful, power isn't everything. A skilled warrior who gets close enough can do just as much harm as a bender - or more.