August 31, 2007

Another republican member of congress is caught in a scandal. This time it’s Senator Larry Craig of Idaho. Newspapers and various blogs have reported a history of alleged homosexual conduct dating back to the late 60’s. Craig denies he is a homosexual.

Craig pled guilty to soliciting sex from an undercover police officer in a Minneapolis airport restroom. He says he pled guilty in a moment of panic to make the situation go away. He neither consulted an attorney or his senate colleagues. It is difficult to believe.

We’ve seen this pattern before with republicans and democrats. Think Bill Clinton. First the denials, then the scene with wife and children. Then the admission and in some cases – though not Clinton’s – impeachment, resignation or dismissal.

I’m surprised this story took so long to come to public attention. I’m even more surprised that a United States Senator – especially a republican – thought he could get away with it for so long in our internet and cable TV age. Of course he deserves the presumption of innocence, but this doesn’t look good for him, his family or his party.

Cal Thomas is a nationally syndicated columnist based in Washington, D.C.