10 December 2008

Republicans, Democrats, and the Governor of Illinois

So unless you've been living under a rock, you'll know that Governor Rod Blagojevich of Illinois has been caught, apparently attempting to sell off President Elect Obama's vacated senate seat to the highest bidder. And he apparently did it, knowing that he was already under investigation for other corruption charges.

A long time ago, Chris used to say "Republicans are evil, and Democrats are stupid. And if given the choice, I'd rather go with evil." He no longer believes that. Now he says that "they are both stupid and evil," just about different things.

It seems that Blagojevich, a Democrat, is a perfect example of being both stupid and evil.

Now, being stupid isn't a crime, but shouldn't we expect better of our elected officials? Shouldn't they be BETTER, than the average Joe? Both in ethics AND intelligence? I suppose it's power that draws the corrupt to run for political office. So how do we go about attracting the smart and ethical folks to office? Hold a lottery? Only those who DON'T want to be governor, should be given the office?

There doesn't seem to be a good answer here. I've always wondered how men like Nixon could record (and then keep) the records of their illegal behavior, or how Governor Blagojevich could openly solicit bribes while already under investigation, and then expect to not get caught.

My seven-year-old is more adept at hiding her crimes than THAT.

So I'll tell Blagojevich and all other politicians who are considering illegal behavior the same thing I do her: "Grow up. Do the right thing. If you'd do what you are supposed to do in the first place, then you wouldn't ever get into trouble."