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This blog is the work of an educated civilian, not of an expert in the fields discussed.

Tuesday, May 13, 2008

Vito Fossella: Negative Trifecta, But What's More Important?

And Also: Jimmy Fallon will replace Conan O'Brien when the latter replaces Leno not too long from now ... eh. No one really worthwhile replaced Tom Synder (RIP) to follow Dave, who was well replaced overall by Conan. Fallon -- though I really don't watch him -- seems a bit boring. I hope, unlike Jay, O'Brien survives the trip without ruining his flavor. Anyway, Tempus fugit.


The sole Republican left in the NYC delegation in the House of Representatives was stopped for a DWI, which -- if he cops to it or is prosecuted -- has a mandatory five day prison term for his first time (caught) offense. He apologized, though did not admit anything criminal apparently, but it was later determined that Vito Fossella [a previous Republican from Staten Island was Susan Molinari -- they even sound the part] was on the way to see his secret love child. The adultery seems also to have went on when the pair was on a Republican field trip of sorts. And, there might be a trifecta -- talk of possible fiscal shenanigans.

Oh, btw, he has a lesbian sister he shuns while promoting anti-homosexual legislation. As with my former mayor getting in trouble taking communion as much for his abortion views as divorcing and not going to mass regularly, there seems to be a disconnect here. Driving while intoxicated after making an ass of yourself at a bar should be disqualifying enough, though he just might have won in November (many do drink and drive after all ... it's okay when you aren't a drunk, you know) given his safe seat. But, it is his adultery, the fiscal stuff an assist, that seems to seal the deal. VF comes off as an asshole plus a hypocrite. Fairly regular for politicians, but he took it took it to a new level.

And, upon thought, I see a point here. It might be bad in various cases, but often people vote for image, especially when given similar substantive options in primaries. And, his constituents thought they was getting a social conservative family man. It is sort of like if liberals found out their representative was actually a bigot who belonged to a racist private club. They could forgive him/her for acting bad in some neutral way, especially if it was something -- driving after some celebration having too much to drink (it helps if we don't know exactly how drunk he was) -- which they themselves could imagine doing. But, they have limits, especially if the person stacks things one on top of the other.

And, this is partially because if you do not believe in the integrity of government officials, you will not support them. You will not want to deal with them, give them money and support, and will be annoyed that they gave the party a black eye. Politics is often largely about symbols ... and when they hit upon the soft under side of the party (they all have them), well it is that much worse. A word that fits the Republican Party these days. Lots of riches there, so to speak.

So, there is a point there, if one that is open to question.