I was appalled at the attitude of Gov. George Ryan in “Ryan: Corruption part of license office culture” (Page 1, March 8). His contention–that corruption was, is and always will be part of the secretary of state’s office–is the most contemptible idea I have ever heard a politician utter.
It is no coincidence that his comment came on the heels of the Joseph Matalone controversy now stirring in the office of Jesse White, the current secretary of state. The governor sees an out, and he’s attempting to take it. Jesse White was man enough to come forward and admit his mistake and his embarrassment. The governor, however, chose to plead ignorance of scandal in the heat of a gubernatorial campaign and later to hide behind the skirt of other employees and even a friend who is suffering with cancer.
It’s time we realize that the hornet’s nest that is the license scandal is of George Ryan’s making, and the only exterminator in town is Jesse White.
