A Sorry State

It has been a strange week for politics here in Oregon -- two different public leaders, Diane Linn and Neil Goldschmidt, have issued public apologies for prior conduct, and the contrasts are -- well, strange.

( Details.... )

Judged by actions, Goldschmidt's offense is arguably far more serious. But judged by actions, Goldschmidt's response is also far more mature, and I find myself with far more respect for him than I have for Linn.

(As an aside, I can't help being a trifle puzzled and appalled by the journalistic zeal with which the media broke the Goldschmidt "story". Both he and the victim had long since put the matter behind them, and nothing in Goldschmidt's present-day public policy activities was being colored by the long-ago incident. I am not sure what good it does anyone for the case to be brought before the public eye at this late date.)

A Sorry State

It has been a strange week for politics here in Oregon -- two different public leaders, Diane Linn and Neil Goldschmidt, have issued public apologies for prior conduct, and the contrasts are -- well, strange.

( Details.... )

Judged by actions, Goldschmidt's offense is arguably far more serious. But judged by actions, Goldschmidt's response is also far more mature, and I find myself with far more respect for him than I have for Linn.

(As an aside, I can't help being a trifle puzzled and appalled by the journalistic zeal with which the media broke the Goldschmidt "story". Both he and the victim had long since put the matter behind them, and nothing in Goldschmidt's present-day public policy activities was being colored by the long-ago incident. I am not sure what good it does anyone for the case to be brought before the public eye at this late date.)