I have, like many here, been filled with disgust at the IM logs and e-mails from (now ex-) Rep Foley and have been pondering the correct response from the democrats in congress. I do not think it would be wise to make this a blatant political axe, but it needs to be addressed to remind people of the level of corruption and depravity that is now commonplace in the Republican Party. It is a tricky spot to be in, because the victim is a minor and does not need the attention. I will offer my thoughts on how to both take the moral high ground, and slap the crap out of the leadership.
First thought for the Democratic response: Below the fold...
"We are deeply saddened by the revelation that a member of congress was involved in illicit propositioning of a minor. Pedophilia is a serious crime and should not be taken lightly. To the victim and his family, we offer our sympathy and support as you work through this traumatic experience. In addition, we would like to assure the victim that the Democratic Party will do all it can to rid the government of these crimes and abuses of power, to restore government to an honorable institution from the cesspool it has become in these past many years. To America, we take these matters seriously. If our current government cannot protect our children, it has failed. We assure you that we will do everything we can to make sure this matter is investigated to its fullest and everyone involved, either directly, or through sins of complacency, will be implicated and referred for prosecution. Those who hold positions of power should be expected to wield that power with great restraint. This incident is yet another example of the dangers of unrestrained powers. We call on the justice department and members of the congressional oversight committees to thoroughly investigate these charges, with transparency and urgency and show the American people that we can be trusted with the powers they entrust us. Hopefully then, we will restore confidence in their government."
I would love to see other thoughts. It is your chance to play speech writer.