Spitzer: Another One Bites the Dust

Once again we find ourselves consumed by another public official who violated his oath of office, and more importantly his commitment to his family. New York Governor Spitzer, who also served for 8-years at New York’s Attorney General, has been identified as “Client #9,” a prominent “John” that frequented a high-class prostitution ring.

The “soon-to-be” Ex-Governor Spitzer referred to his involvement with the prostitution ring as a “private matter.” There is nothing “private” about this, regardless of what Spitzer would like to think. As a former Attorney General, Spitzer knows full well that he violated the law he swore to uphold. In fact, Spitzer prosecuted numerous prostitution rings:

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Governor Spitzer was also well aware that prostitution rings usually participated in human trafficking to meet “supply” needs:

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As I have stated before (Character Matters), the public has very little tolerance for public servants, Republican or Democrats, who violate the public trust. There is a particular distain for those that actively participate in enforcing the law, such as prosecutors and police officers, who also violate those very same laws through their “private” behavior.

I feel bad for the Spitzer Family (his wife and three daughters), his friends and supporters. Spitzer was right when he said, “I must now dedicate some time to regain the trust of my family.” Spitzer made a mistake, one that will cost him his job, his reputation, and possibly his family. How Spitzer response to this is up to him. He can seek redemption, and devote himself to being a better husband and father. Or he could let this tare him apart, sinking further into despair. When our actions lead to our disgrace, it is important to remember that honor isn't about making the right choices. It's about dealing with the consequences.