Alberto Gonzalez gives an object lesson in the character and integrity we've come to expect from the Bush White House.
Remember when George W. Bush famously promised to restore honor and dignity to the White House? Leaving aside that this was simply dog-whistle for "I will not get caught taking a blow-job from an intern," more than a few people took him at his word. Over the years, this promise has been the object of nearly as much scorn and mockery as the unfortunate "Mission Accomplished" aircraft carrier incident, but never has it been more clear than today exactly what we’re dealing with.
Here’s an ethical problem that even a first-grader could figure out. About an hour ago, the chief law-enforcement officer of the United States got up before the cameras and, with all the integrity of a weasel dipped in Crisco, said the following:
• "Mistakes were made" in the dismissal of eight US Attorneys for obviously political reasons
• I personally take responsibility for these mistakes
• Notwithstanding the above, I have accepted the resignation of my subordinate, because I am content to see someone else take the actual accountability that I deserve for mistakes that I just told you I took responsibility for.
He also added that he is determined to cling to his own job because he worked hard for it and enjoys the support of the President (apparently true, since he’s not out on his ear). This, from the people who are happy to shake a finger at liberals for their "moral relativism" and publicly yearn for the days when character was king.
Look, words and meaning have completely parted company here. Irrespective of the political context, there is no situation where a person accepts personal responsibility, then makes an underling pay the price, is anything but utterly shady and disreputable. It is the definition of a low and desperate character.
And yet approximately one in three Americans is still prepared to defend these folks as honorable and dignified. In what universe can such people continue to claim intellectual or moral respect, or register indignation at having their "values" disparaged by "elites"? Gimme a friggin’ break.
Crossposted at
Emphasis Added