It is often said that the downfall of prominent political figures is not the crime, but the cover-up, and that may be shown to be the case again as the latest scandal with Democratic U. S. Rep. Anthony Weiner on center stage plays out.
For days, the married Representative Weiner not only denied the obvious truth that he had sent lewd photographs via a social networking site, but alleged that he had engaged experts who would attempt to determine who hacked into his account. Now, he comes clean, admitting what most had suspected from his inartful initial dodges in skirmishes with the media: that he was the person who sent the photos.
Weiner has garnered a reputation as a bombastic, holier-than-thou political figure, viciously challenging those who engage him in debate who have a view that is contrary to his liberal beliefs.
If Weiner does not have the decency to resign, as appears will be the case, his constituents should force him from office no later than next year. Those who obfuscate, weave, dodge and lie to save their skin do not deserve the trust of the people in one of the most prominent positions of trust that our nation has to offer.
If Weiner is ever again to hold public office, perhaps he should run on a ticket with another disgraced snake, John Edwards, with the two promoting themselves as members of The Congenital Liars’ Club.
— Oren M. Spiegler, Upper Saint Clair, Pa.
