According to the Chicago Tribune Illinois Representative Aaron Schock's (R-Downton Abbey) senior aide, Benjamin Cole has resigned.They say it's because of old Facebook postings along the lines of "building a mosque at the White House for the President", and many more offensive and crude musings.
They say it's because of old Facebook postings, however the timing seems to suggest the office redecorating fiasco played a big part. Here is a quote from the Peoria Journal's website:
The statement from Schock in the Journal Star read:
"I
am extremely disappointed by the inexcusable and offensive online comments made by a member of my staff. I would expect better from any member of my team. Upon learning about them I met with Mr. Cole and he offered his resignation which I have accepted."
The delightful and talented Mr. Cole is a former Baptist Minister from Texas. Here's a bit more of his bio from the Tribune article.
Cole worked for the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee from 2009 to 2011, according to Legistorm, which tracks information about lawmakers and their aides
.
It looks like they are in full damage control mode. I don't think a firing and a paycheck to the decorator will be the end of this. Aaron Schock is young and has put himself in the heat of the klieg lights. I'm sure there will e more to come.
UPDATE: I've got to meet Mr. Lex for date night, so I'll be gone for a bit. Discuss amongst yourselves and I'll check in later.