Today the news broke that New York State Governor, Eliot Spitzer has been linked to a prostitution ring. There is a lot of discussion about this story in the press, especially in light of the fact that Spitzer has been the attorney general of New York who prosecuted other prostitution rings.
Some are calling this a 'political earthquake' and the press is jumping on the fact that he 'preached high ethics', but now has basically admitted meeting with a prostitute in a Washington hotel.
People who knew him apparently are shocked that he would be involved, given his reputation. He was "a crusader who was looked up to by the public".
I'm reminded of the danger that every person faces who is a public figure who ways into ethical issues. Those who call for a 'high' standard of ethical living are always going to be looked at closely, but for the press to say that the public 'looks up to' such a person seems a bit much. Is that why Spitzer won over 60% of the vote in his election as Governor? I'm not convinced that it is.
It certainly does cast more of a shadow on the already tattered reputation of politicians.
All I can say is that for once, there is no connection to the Church.
June 4 - Psalm 16
10 years ago
2 comments:
I think this suggests yet another way as to how democracy doesn't work when votes are bought with rhetoric and lobbyists' money.
Talk is cheap. So are politicians.
Anyone can call on high ethics. I think platforms should be the main concern in campaigns, but unfortunately our system focuses on hairdos, mudslinging, and inspiring one liners.
Ran accross this quote in the CBC article:
"He has to step down," Republican congressman Peter King, of Long Island, said. "No one will stand with him.
"I never take advantage or gloat over a personal tragedy, however this is different. This is a guy who is so self-righteous, and so unforgiving."
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