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When Pols Behave Badly

What gives in New York State? And how is it all of a sudden open season on wives?

First, (former NY Governor) Eliot Spitzer does the nasty with prostitutes, and "dr" Laura (ick) blames his wife for "obviously" not putting out. Then there's word that he may have used public funds for - well, I don't even want to think about where the money went. Am I the only grossed out at the mental visual of Eliot Spitzer with a hooker? Bleah.

Now (current NY Governor) David Paterson, "who has admitted having a number of extramarital affairs, indicated that if he ever used campaign money in the course of those relationships he would have properly reimbursed the campaign account" (NYTimes, March 19, 2008). What does this mean? "Gee, Mom, I would have shared the cookie I might have taken from the cookie jar without your permission with my sister?"

"A number of extramarital affairs..." Turns out these are what caused "Mr. Paterson (to ask) ... Mr. Spitzer to delay the effective date of his resignation until Monday as he grappled with how much to disclose about his past infidelities" (more NYTimes, March 19, 2008). Oh. And I thought this had to do with his getting himself ready to step into some pretty tiny shoes.

And speaking of those affairs - both Mr. *and* Mrs. P have 'fessed up to messing around outside their sacred vows, "Mr. Paterson said he had had affairs at a time when he “was jealous over Michelle” but later said he “didn’t take the actions because I was jealous; I was just trying to explain how I was feeling. I'm not trying to blame anyone,” he added. “I’m not trying to say I was upset, so you can’t blame me. I was just pointing out that this happens to people" (and yet more NYTimes, March 19, 2008).

Call me crazy, but this shouldn't "happen to people." Seems to me that you'd have to make a conscious decision to wreck your marriage and step out on your spouse/partner. "I'm mad at you, so I'll go find me another bed" isn't the way it's supposed to be.

But what do I know.

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