So... what do you think?

[illyushadarling]

As we draw ever closer to the November elections, it's no surprise to start seeing politically oriented posts appearing on LJ. I've read the recent posts about Republican candidate Akin and his (pardon the pun) ill conceived words about "legitimate rape". We've already endured Weinergate, with the ensuing demands for and subsequent resignation.

Comments

[bluemeanybeany]

He should resign for being an idiot. In an election year - where he knows the result is that close...and he isnt thinking enough to not endanger that. In my book he's not resigning for his private life, he resigning for being too reckless to not consider the Professional implications of his actions. [whether there should be professional implications is another matter, but he knew that there would be if it was in the press] It's a betrayal to his Party, and the money and effort it's taking to secure victory. He's responsible for the hard-work of many other, that he'd endanger all that through lack of common-sense is not a good characteristic for an Elected Official.

[illyushadarling]

He definitely has some questionable characteristics in my book - I mean, advertising on Craig's List??? Personally, I think anyone's "private life" matters, but especially in a so-called public servant, because what one does when he thinks no one who matters is looking is a clear indicator of character. And I definitely expect a high level of good character in elected officials. Shame we don't always get it.

[bluemeanybeany]

i think the private life question tends to depend on what and whom they are representing. Like if you're promoting Christian Family Values the three ex-wives arent exactly great.

In terms of character I think probably I'd look for other things first before sex life and family. It depends dont it, I mean sometimes Alcoholic, Manic-Depressive, Dysfunctional, Morbidly Obese Bastards are the correct leadership choice.

[illyushadarling]

It is the ewwwwwww factor of advertising for sex to which I am referring.

But lol to your last sentence. Yeah, sometimes those may be good leaders. I mean, we all have warts. ;-)

[glennagirl]

He is an idiot who has a false sense of entitlement. Politicians are to be viewed with suspicion... always. Theirs is a category of pursuit that demands we assume guilt until innocence can be proven. It's harsh, but the accountability factor goes up in spades when people enter a public arena.
i say put him in a rubber boat with the dweebs who went skinny dipping and see where they end up.

[bluemeanybeany]

it's an interesting discussion on how much people in the public arena have a right to privacy aint it. Take the Prince Harry photos today - technically that was in the privacy of a hotel room and he didn't know there was a camera.

He's still a numpty for not bloody well checking there were no camera about though, especially in America where he doesnt actually know the people at the party can be trusted [cause clearly they cant] I'm sure under the influence of alcohol he pretty much forgot it wasnt actually a group of friends or Army buddies he was with. I do have a problem with people giving/selling personal photos to newspapers though, it's just wrong.

[glennagirl]

the person who took and then sold the picture is vile, absolutely. He or she is also now about $100K richer no doubt. Money talks, and it says 'go ahead, do it'.

[illyushadarling]

Well, don't hold back, girl! I agree with your idiot assessment. But I must say, I have to differ on the assumption of guilt until proven innocent. (Of course, here, this guy confessed.) I mean, if that's the way it's to be played, then Harry Reid was well in line with his insinuation that Mitt Romney hadn't paid a penny in taxes for 10 years, based on a supposed call from an anomymous tipster. And, by the same token, Obama would have to prove he is innocent of lots of alleged wrongs. (And btw, I wish he would. I've heard from really bad and disturbing things.)

But no, I want transparency from all politicians. Ain't holding my breath, though.

[glennagirl]

Here's an article on that jobs gaffe by Stephanie Cutter, Obama's deputy campaign manager. I have gotten a notice of a PM from you three times, and one of them said it was from another person. LJ must be having some issues. I did read the message, three times ;)

[glennagirl]

Oh yeah, the article :o
http://www.ijreview.com/2012/08/13662-knee-slapper-of-the-year-obama-created-more-jobs-than-reagan/

[illyushadarling]

Yeah, I heard those figures, and my jaw dropped. Blatant lies! And I won't excuse it by saying all politicians (and their campaign people) lie.

But I am hoping to locate primary sources to answer meany's question. Trying to get down to bare facts rather than news reports or editorials from either side. That's what will take time, I'm afraid.