Louisiana Senator David Vitter is turning into more of a joke each and every day. In the last week, he has been on the run, literally scampering away from reporters to avoid answering tough questions about his involvement with the D.C. Madam. What a courageous image it projects to show our Senator fleeing reporters! He is acting like Britney Spears or Paris Hilton, not a respected leader.
Last week, at a luncheon of the Louisiana Broadcasters Association in New Orleans, ABC-26 WGNO-TV reporter Glynn Boyd attempted to ask Vitter whether he would testify in the D.C. Madam case. Instead of answering the question or even saying “no comment,” Vitter scurried away from Boyd without uttering a word. Fast forward to yesterday at a town hall meeting in Gonzales. Vitter was answering questions from constituents on issues such as health care. However, outside the meeting room, reporters were waiting to ask Vitter about the D.C. Madam case. Initially, Vitter made a short statement expressing his remorse for his actions and his “love” for the people of Louisiana. He was very vague and gave no specifics. At that point, he darted out of the room and into a waiting car. His assistant attempted to flee the scene so quickly that he backed into a stop sign, damaging the sign and Vitter’s car. The two were in such a hurry to avoid the reporters that they did not stop to investigate the damages.
You may ask what Vitter is so scared of. Or, why is his constantly running away? Well, it is clear that he is terrified of answering some pretty basic questions involving the extent of his involvement, sexual or otherwise, with any of the D.C. Madam’s call girls. The Madam has added Vitter’s name to the potential witness list, which means that he might actually be called to testify in the case as a defense witness. According to Vitter’s attorney, the Senator will take the Fifth Amendment and will refuse to answer questions so as not to incriminate himself. Yet, many citizens of Louisiana will rightly view his taking the Fifth as a clear sign that he is guilty.
Here is my unsolicited advice to Senator Vitter, “Be a man, own up to your actions, tell the truth and, for goodness sakes, stop acting like a runaway child.”
Allegations about Vitter and prostitutes have swirled around Louisiana political circles since 1999. Initially, Vitter was always able to describe such rumors as nasty attacks from his “political enemies.” All of that obfuscation ended when Vitter’s name surfaced on the call records of the D.C. Madam. No longer was Vitter able to dismiss serious accusations in such a cavalier manner, so he admitted to a “serious sin.”
After that vague admission, Vitter released nothing else. For almost nine months, Vitter has not come clean, has stonewalled and admitted to nothing more than a “sin.” At his infamous press conference with his wife at his side last July, Vitter basically hid behind her skirt to avoid answering questions. Her statements of support shielded him, at least initially.
Since then, there have been various embarrassing news stories involving the Senator. Several New Orleans prostitutes have claimed relationships with Vitter in New Orleans. On the national level, there have been developments in the D.C. Madam Case and scandals with other politicians like U.S. Senator Larry Craig and former New York Governor Elliot Spitzer. In each instance, Vitter has been forced to confront his own “sin.” Each situation was a perfect opportunity for Vitter to tell the truth and ask for the forgiveness of the voters of Louisiana. Instead, he avoided the media, acted like he was scared of their questions and basically looked like a coward.
It is time that Louisiana had a real U.S. Senator who is able to represent the state without constantly looking over his shoulder. At this point, Vitter is living in perpetual fear of the media or the next sex scandal. This embarrassment is impacting Vitter’s effectiveness and his ability to serve the people of Louisiana. He needs to both deal with this situation and honestly address the people of Louisiana or he needs to resign and save the state from his ineffective representation and future embarrassment.
Jeff Crouere is a native of New Orleans, LA and he is the host of a Louisiana based program, “Ringside Politics,” which airs at 7:30 p.m. Fri. and 10:00 p.m. Sun. on WLAE-TV 32, a PBS station, and 7 till 11 a.m. weekdays on WGSO 990 AM in New Orleans and the Northshore. For more information, visit his web site at www.ringsidepolitics.com. E-mail him at jeff@ringsidepolitics.com.
Written by In other words, GET HELP,..... QUICKLY!!!!
on 4/10/2008
REPORT SPAM OR ABUSE
Probably around the same amount as the amount that wish their daughters get the opportunity to marry a doctor, or a lawyer, or an engineer, or a senator, or a college professor, or a dentist, or a real estate agent, or an independant wealthy business man, or an astronaut, etc., etc., etc........ But in most instances the later just don't wan't to know the fine details or terms of the arraingments or agreements made before and after the ceremony....... But then again, there is always the "I WANT HALF CLAUSE" to fall back on, and then it all looks prim and proper........ A la leur courts of da land. Written by ....Reading the neurosis plauged post below.
on 4/10/2008
REPORT SPAM OR ABUSE
I guess he paid her to leave because he was so disgusted over her being a hooker.
Makes you wonder if he views all women as just trashy hookers or is it just the
one`s that other people buy.
Why is Vitter hiding the truth if this is what his voters and Party really stand
for?
How many voters are hoping he will hire their daughters one day? Written by Diaperman
on 4/9/2008
REPORT SPAM OR ABUSE
HA! "Allah be Praised" and now "Get a Grip on Yourself" Impressive.... very impressive. Though a bit "off" you do have your moments. Written by kpf
on 4/9/2008
REPORT SPAM OR ABUSE
Uhhhhhhhhhhhh, Diaperman, no one is buying anyone's body........... When one pays for a 'hooker', one is not paying for sex, one is paying for the hooker to leave... Written by ........................Get a grip on yourself,
on 4/9/2008
REPORT SPAM OR ABUSE
Now if Vitter has no control over his driver how can we expect him to have control
over the whole state. How can a man who runs from the media stand up and fight for
Louisiana.How can a man who supports the buying of humans flesh fight for my rights as a human. When you buy a hooker you are buying her body for a time period and that would mean he views that woman as a piece of property. How can a man who said any man who cheats on his wife is not fit to serve in any office,stay in office himself.
If he has nothing to hide was is he running away from just telling the truth. Written by Diaperman
on 4/9/2008
REPORT SPAM OR ABUSE
As an impartial observer - that is one who both votes Republican and Democratic and also has contempt for both parties - I simply do not pay any attention when a conservative criticizes a liberal, or vice versa. The only criticism I ever think is worthy of my time is when (as with Jeff's criticism of Vitter) the "outrage" is directed within one's own "clan." There is simply too much partisanship to do otherwise. Using this board as an example: Anthony's points were well made but -of course - he was criticizing a conservative. When TW & Anthony have criticism of a liberal, they have my ear, when they criticize a conservative I assume they simply want a person holding that seat with a different political viewpoint (uh…. “their own” I would venture). I feel no differently about conservative criticism of liberals. Of course, all this crap about "pee-pees" and such keeps us from ever discussing anything relevant, much to my disgust. Ah well, I am off to Sidney Torres in "da parish" to do good works for "Hillary's Children." (That's why I always HAD to charge overtime when I was an hourly employee, the government gets a percentage of my O.T. and so Hillary can do good things "for the children." Just trying to do my part). Written by kpf
on 4/9/2008
REPORT SPAM OR ABUSE
Well said JTFM. For the record not only has Vitter been pictured with many of his collegues of late but he is once again taking the lead on important Healthcare legislation. He is joined by among others Isakson, DeMint, & Coburn all fiscal conservatives. Vitter is being called by the Defense last I heard. Again my question, what could possibly be the reason for calling Vitter except to embarrass him? As for the fleeing the scene, when I read the article Vitter was not driving. If there is a citation there, than it would be unusual to cite the passenger whatever the circumstance. As for Louisiana's image I fail to see how Vitter harms it. Some of the State's most beloved politicians are known for their relationships with prostitutes. I don't like it but it is what it is. It is rare however for Louisiana to be known for intelligent and articulate representatives. I went back and read transcrips of speeches from several. All I heard was fight, fight, fight. I mean the Senior Senator from Louisiana actually threatened to punch the President of the United States. How's that for image? Oh and on the law, she filmed a political ad where she is clearly seen in the front seat not wearing a seatbelt. Duh. Brilliant. Another pitched a hissy fit because Bush did not take his call on Air Force One. And of course, we have the on going story of a Representative who keeps ill begotten cash in his freezer (with a nickname like Dollar Bill yikes), is on tape accepting a bribe, yet crys foul when his DC office is searched. What could he possibly have in his DC office that could be used against him in a court of law??? Still, I do not think that he should resign. I think he should be voted out. He wasn't. So, the voters have spoken. My point. The voters should choose; not the media. Jeff Courere and Chad Rodgers are 2 of my favorite bloggers in Louisiana. They provide a thoughtful and diverse approach to all issues. On this issue, I disagree. Vitter is being effective for Louisiana. Those who believe that a "conservative" or Blue Dog Democrat would be better needs to watch the votes more carefully. None of these people have pulled their party toward the center. They are seldom if ever the leading voice on any issue and they vote with far left of their party 99% of the time. Louisiana is a moderate to conservative state. The oil industry is what puts the bread on the table for most of the working class. Vitter and Jindal (when he was in the House) showed the nation that Louisiana has articulate and capable people. Not perfect but effective. Written by Sharon
on 4/9/2008
REPORT SPAM OR ABUSE
Please- Just The Facts Ma'am!, Can you tell what other senators in washington
are having their picture taken any where near Vitter any more,oh and Larry Craig
does not count. Can you tell me how Vitter can help Louisiana as he runs from the
Media. How does Vitter aiding a hooker by refusing to testify against her,Help the
image of Louisiana. Now Vitter broke the law when he fled the scene of an accident
caught on a news camera,but we all know he is above any of the laws of Louisiana.
Do you think we should Vitter word that he is not lying or hiding anything
else,when we see him running and hiding from telling the truth. Vitter is a lame
duck when it comes to helping Louisiana, and he does not improve the states
image,that we are trying to change. Written by Diaperman
on 4/9/2008
REPORT SPAM OR ABUSE
Senator David Vitter’s achievement in the United State Senate and his goals for Louisiana, as well as for our nation, should be our focus as voters and the concentration of media that aspires to responsibly inform citizens. Instead of zooming in on his personal life with tunnel vision, we would do well to inspect his voting record and the Senate bills that he sponsors instead. When his performance at the job we elected him to undertake in Washington becomes our focal point, we will find that he deserves outstanding marks across the board.
Examining with an unclouded and objective eye the diligence and dedication with which Senator Vitter has previously served Louisiana in the House of Representatives and presently serves in the United States Senate, rather than allowing ourselves to be mesmerized by tabloid like gossip passing for news, certainly better prepares us for the voting booth and for making sure we keep the right person in Washington. Since beginning his service in the Senate David Vitter has sponsored and cosponsored more than 109 bills that adhere to the platform on which he ran for office and was elected. Highlights of good things David Vitter has and is currently sponsoring in the Senate include :
• A resolution that supports a program to encourage young voter participation
• A bill that would cut off all funding to the United Nations if they were to pass any resolution that took away our second amendment right to bear arms
• A bill to ensure that firearms are not confiscated from citizens in times of emergency as did happen with New Orleans citizens following Hurricane Katrina
• Over 14 bills and resolutions to ensure future emergency preparedness and disaster relief.
• At least 3 bills to make prescription medications more safe, accessible and affordable.
• Bills supporting veterans and ensuring the national defense.
• Bills to safeguard Social Security and Retirement Resources
• A bill to cut unnecessary spending on out of country trips for federal employees.
• A bill that makes registered sex offenders more easily identified
• Several resolutions that give recognition to outstanding Louisiana citizens who have made a difference in our communities.
• Over 10 bills that suspend and/or lower taxes, tariffs and duties collected by the federal government.
• Over 5 bills that support the ecosystem and wetlands of coastal Louisiana
• More than 3 bills that seek out new or untapped sources of energy
• Bills and measures that fight for the right to life for all human beings and eliminate federal funding for abortions.
Senator Vitter’s detailed voting records in the House and the Senate further bear witness to his dedication in accurately representing the will of Louisiana’s citizens. Anything at all in his personal life or anything beyond the tasks carried out by David Vitter in his role as United States Senator is frankly none of our business and irrelevant in deciding whether he is up to his job. No amount of overzealous mudslinging propagated by the Senator’s political opponents, wild stories narrated by unreliable and criminal sources, and ignorant, uninformed of the facts, gossip can stand up to the documented public records that show beyond all doubt that Senator David Vitter’s job performance is stellar. How about we let the Senator get back to work on helping our state and our country!!
Written by Just The Facts Ma'am!
on 4/8/2008
REPORT SPAM OR ABUSE
The main thing is Vitter has no pull left in Washington. He not only lied to his voters about what he stood for, he is running away from news reporters and that only shows he has something to hide. Now look at the democrat governor who did the right thing by resigning from his office. The republican party who is quick to point out the things democrats have done, Now have Vitter and Larry Craig to be proud off. Because Vitter did not step down, Larry Craig did not have to step down. Now if Vitter has nothing to fear he would just tell the truth,because the truth can set you free. Then again we can only wonder what else is Vitter lying about and hiding in his closet. Like I say though as far as Washington, Vitter is a lame duck and can not help Louisiana. Written by Diaperman
on 4/8/2008
REPORT SPAM OR ABUSE
Jeff for someone i never agree with you hit the nail on the head.Because this guy refuse to stand in front of the mic and say i didn't do anything wrong.So for sharon who don't even live here in louisiana and dawg and ken to defend this guy is another chapter of dumbing up of american people, especially here in louisiana.But i guess breaking your wife's and children hearts and have them embarrassed everywhere they go is okay with sharon and friends, what kind of man does that to his kids. Written by anthony
on 4/8/2008
REPORT SPAM OR ABUSE
You know what, y'all, you may not like what Jeff says here - but he talks the talk and he walks the walk. You gotta give him props for that - he holds everyone, liberal and conservative alike, to high standards. I'll be honest - I'm not sure Vitter needs to resign over this - I think it's a bit too puritanical to demand that. However, he'd probably be doing Louisiana a favor if he did, since he is way too much of a distraction to be an effective lawmaker. Exhibit "A" in support of this is all the electronic ink that's been spilled on this issue on this site over the last couple of days. TW Written by Tee Dub
on 4/8/2008
REPORT SPAM OR ABUSE
I did not want to believe Jeff was full of hate. It is soooo obvious now. He cannot move on and he sounds very,very bitter. sad.
what is interesting is that NOONE IN the meeting asked about his sin....they WERE NOT intersted...they asked about roads,health care,etc. ONLY reporters with agendas ask about it. Written by Ken
on 4/8/2008
REPORT SPAM OR ABUSE
95 percent? My dear lady you give our elected officials far too much credit. Written by kpf
on 4/8/2008
REPORT SPAM OR ABUSE
Jeff, I am sad that we have not moved away from this subject. I recently wrote to an editor about an article that was supposed to advocate "moving on" yet said that Vitter should find work to do in the Senate. I watch a lot of the "work" that goes on in the Senate and in many committees on several issues each week. Vitter is and has been very focused and articulate on each piece of legislation. Vitter could spend every minute of every day defending himself or issuing apolgies but to what end? Louisiana or the Nation is in no danger because of Vitter's actions. Blackmailing him would get our enemies nowhere. How his testimony in the DC Madame case will accomplish except embarrassing Vitter remains to be seen. With so much work going on in Louisiana, I would think that the media might have a few NEW stories to cover. Vitter will face election and the voters will make their decision then. If they are displeased with his effectiveness, then they can choose another. The editor answered me that in his opinion Vitter is a "self-serving SOB'. In that case, IMHO he is no different from 95% of those with which he serves. Written by Sharon
on 4/8/2008
REPORT SPAM OR ABUSE
Isn't that hit and run? I know if I hit a stop sign and leave the scene and someone turns me in, I am up a creek fo rdamage to public property. If I ever due that can I just refer to Senator Vitter? I am in trouble. Is it a crime? Written by Bobby
on 4/8/2008
REPORT SPAM OR ABUSE
I do not think it's a hate piece. There is nothing wrong from Republican supporters who do not wish to be tainted by this behavior by asking for Vitter to resign. There is no reason to take note of Democrats who criticize Vitter as they most likely wish to see a member of their party fill this seat in Vitter's absence and they would ignore the same behavior from their own party's members (no pun intended). Vitter's vagueness about this is typical of how politicians of either party handle matters when they get caught doing something wrong. While I can understand those who call for him to do the honorable thing I cannot understand why some people “expect” these politicians to do so as: 1) their actions show they are not honorable men and 2) admittance of guilt by our politicians is a rare occurrence. Written by kpf
on 4/8/2008
REPORT SPAM OR ABUSE
It is played for amusement, diversion,,,,,,,,,
Or in sports, whether roman or persian............
Game, as word just the same,,,,,,,,,,,
May get different acclaim,,,,,,,,,,
If obtained from a hunting excursion.......... Written by It is all just a game illusion...................
on 4/8/2008
REPORT SPAM OR ABUSE
another hate piece. there is an agenda here and it has nothing to do with fairness. Written by dawg
on 4/8/2008
REPORT SPAM OR ABUSE
Louisiana Senator David Vitter is turning into more of a joke each and every day. In the last week, he has been on the run, literally scampering away from reporters to avoid answering tough questions about his involvement with the D.C. Madam. What a courageous image it projects to show our Senator fleeing reporters! He is acting like Britney Spears or Paris Hilton, not a respected leader.
