August 27, 2007

As If 2008 Wasn't Going To Be Tough Enough

Larry Craig, the Republican Senator from Idaho, paid a visit to Minneapolis in June, and apparently wanted the full tour of the Twin Cities. He went from the airport men's room to the hoosegow by the most direct route after attempting to importune an undercover police officer, according to Roll Call. Hot Air has the details:

Sen. Larry Craig (R-Idaho) was arrested in June at a Minnesota airport by a plainclothes police officer investigating lewd conduct complaints in a men’s public restroom, according to an arrest report obtained by Roll Call Monday afternoon.

Craig’s arrest occurred just after noon on June 11 at Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport. On Aug. 8, he pleaded guilty to misdemeanor disorderly conduct in the Hennepin County District Court. He paid more than $500 in fines and fees, and a 10-day jail sentence was stayed. He also was given one year of probation with the court that began on Aug. 8.

A spokesman for Craig described the incident as a “he said/he said misunderstanding,” and said the office would release a fuller statement later Monday afternoon.

After he was arrested, Craig, who is married, was taken to the Airport Police Operations Center to be interviewed about the lewd conduct incident, according to the police report. At one point during the interview, Craig handed the plainclothes sergeant who arrested him a business card that identified him as a U.S. Senator and said, “What do you think about that?” the report states.

We think it means you're even more foolish than this incident would suggest. How long before Craig checks himself into rehab or finds Jesus?

The Republicans already have a 21-12 disadvantage in next year's Senate contests. His was one of the seats the GOP hoped to hold, and his party had been pushing to keep him from retiring. I suspect they're looking for Plan B at the moment.

UPDATE: Hugh Hewitt calls for his resignation. At the least, he should confirm that he will not run again. I'm not convinced that Craig did more wrong than David Vitter, though -- both of them broke laws.

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» Senator Larry Craig Arrested in Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport Bathroom Incident from Blogs of War
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Comments (108)

Posted by I R A Darth Aggie | August 27, 2007 5:13 PM

I'm more annoyed by the do you know who I am routine than the hey, sailor, come here often routine...

Posted by Anthony (Los Angeles) | August 27, 2007 5:15 PM

How long before Craig checks himself into rehab or finds Jesus?

Right after the de rigeur teary apology and photo-op with his supportive family.

Stupidity isn't unique to any political party, it seems.

Posted by crash | August 27, 2007 5:26 PM

“What do you think about that?” Bend over, here comes your electorate - is what I think of that.

Posted by Eric | August 27, 2007 5:28 PM

While I support the party's policies, by and large, I'm appalled by the rot that seems to have set in at the leadership level. It's hard to promote the ideas when the messengers are so flawed.

Posted by filistro | August 27, 2007 5:34 PM

Sigh.

If only these guys could confine themselves to good, wholesome, old-fashioned scandals like vote-rigging and influence peddling, nobody would pay much attention.

But this stuff they keep doing is just so lethally, irresistibly FUNNY.

Can you imagine what Leno and Letterman are going to make of the whole "foot-tapping in the bathroom stall" thing?

I doubt that Craig's wife, children and grandchildren deserve the avalanche that's going to be coming. My heart goes out to them.

Posted by tim | August 27, 2007 5:38 PM

Too funny. Way too funny. The new symbol of the GOP should be a kneeling elephant in a public toilet stall.

Posted by wooga | August 27, 2007 5:38 PM

I find it amazing that pervs would pick the bathroom at an international airport to get it on, and that this is a frequent enough occurrence to warrant stationing an officer inside a stall. Doesn't really seem like the most conducive atmosphere, you know?

Next question: Why has this guy not resigned already? He was arrested 10 weeks ago! That's more than enough time to get your things in order and get out of office. But nooo.... this pervert puts his own personal power trip over the good of the party. Disgusting.

Posted by bulbasaur | August 27, 2007 5:40 PM

Maybe we ought to just stop trying, let the culture go totally to hell, get it out of our systems and salvage what's left a few generations from now.

Dammit, yes, I'm voting for Ron Paul.

Posted by hunter | August 27, 2007 5:42 PM

I am nearly ready to either switch parties or withdraw from the political square.
democrats know how to deal with this much better, and no one cares much if they drive drunk, kill or (w)horse around. Republicans are starting to just look stupid all too often.
How friggin' out of control must Craig be to go to public restroom???)(*&%^&*^&#!!?
He is a major public figure. Even if his appetite is for shellfish, he can bloody well control his effin' appetite.
Wasn't he accused in the last election of being gay? Didn't everyone defend him against such baseless scurilous attacks?

Posted by Bennett | August 27, 2007 5:53 PM

From the details about his behavior in the bathroom, it sounds like maybe this wasn't the Senator's first time at the rodeo. Just the first time he got himself lassoed by a lawman.

I admire the police. Can you imagine having to pull this duty?

Posted by Honky | August 27, 2007 5:53 PM

How did this get suppressed so long (the arrest was in June!)?

Posted by Jeff P. | August 27, 2007 5:53 PM

This looks real bad, if Sen. Craig really did proposition an undercover cop in a public restroom of an international airport, in a way which could not be misunderstood.

If he did, he is several kinds of idiot and doesn't deserve to be a US senator.

But I don't automatically assume that he's guilty -- remember a guy named Nifong? These charges are so inflammatory and bizarre that I suspect their credibility.

Posted by Jeff P. | August 27, 2007 5:57 PM

This looks real bad, if Sen. Craig really did proposition an undercover cop in a public restroom of an international airport, in a way which could not be misunderstood.

If he did, he is several kinds of idiot and doesn't deserve to be a US senator.

But I don't automatically assume that he's guilty -- remember a guy named Nifong? These charges are so inflammatory and bizarre that I suspect their credibility.

Posted by Bennett | August 27, 2007 5:57 PM

"This looks real bad, if Sen. Craig really did proposition an undercover cop in a public restroom of an international airport, in a way which could not be misunderstood.
"

Jeff, he pled out already, misdemeanor disorderly conduct. So we're well past the "it's only a charge, maybe the prosecutor is simply being overzealous" stage.

Posted by Bennett | August 27, 2007 6:03 PM

"This looks real bad, if Sen. Craig really did proposition an undercover cop in a public restroom of an international airport, in a way which could not be misunderstood.
"

Jeff, he pled out already, misdemeanor disorderly conduct. So we're well past the "it's only a charge, maybe the prosecutor is simply being overzealous" stage.

Posted by flenser | August 27, 2007 6:12 PM

Always look on the bright side of life.

Craig was an amnesty supporter. We may get a better senator out of this out. Hey, the Lord works in mysterious ways.

Posted by DaveMon | August 27, 2007 6:12 PM

GOP motto: why do all the homosexuals keep sucking my c**k?

hat tip: onion

Posted by eaglewings | August 27, 2007 6:17 PM

If he didn't proposition the cop for money, then it shouldn't matter where the proposition occurred, the dems would naturally support the Sen's right to adultury and gay adverturism. However, if the proposition involved exposure together with the verbal gestures, then something along the lines of the George Michael incident eventuated, and I don't know what kind of misunderstanding could have occurred. Perhaps the Sen. is pee-shy and was illustrating his dilemma too graphically for the officer, hence the 'misunderstanding'. At least the Sen. could have kept his urges inside until he got back to his Sen. office, and behave as well as former Pres. Clinton. I don't necessarily think resignation is the right response to this. Why should the dems have their homiciders and gym floor freak shows in Congress and rewarded for at least as serious conduct, but the repubs have to shoot themselves in the head after their stupid episodes?

Posted by Carol Herman | August 27, 2007 6:22 PM

Let's see?

Larry Craig is probably a homosexual guy. Nothing unusual about that. You don't have to come from San Francisco, or Floriduh, to be one, ya know?

And, in the old days, circa 19th century, it was COMMON, for men to walk with their wives, (and the wives were clueless; or at least refused to acknowledge what they "knew" ... as "the love that dared not speak its name" was done OUT IN THE OPEN.) So men stuck GREEN CARNATIONs in their lapels. And, paraded about with their wives on their arms; through more streets than "PICK-A-DILLY." While looking for homosexual encounters.

As to what's gonna happen to Larry Craig FROM IDAHO; it will be up to IDA-HO-ANS, to decide. Not up to others, around the country. Sorry.

And, if Larry Craig now looks UN-ELECT-ABLE? It's early. There will be primaries around this country. And, more than a few "contested seats." Wink. Wink. Blink. Blink. Let the Bonkeys chuckle, who cares?

While on another head, I'm not sure, but I think Warner's seat is also one of those coming up for grabs. But he has, as yet, not "declared" if he's gonna run, again, or not. So, there'll be a lot of stuff for voters, in their own states, to decide.

By the way, you didn't know homosexuals look for sex in toilets with strangers? Not news to me. And, I've never been in a men's toilet, ever, in my life. But one thing the homosexual males are doing, when they're not doing it at other venues, is looking for PROMISCUOUS SEX. No. They are not about searching for long-lasting true love. And, it's NOT about finding wives. Let alone that their women at home should find out! Excuse me. It's an urge. And, it takes two consenting adults to do "it" ... in a toilet stall. Do they choose one with toilet paper handy? Inquiring minds want to know?

One of the old shibboleths, about homosexuality, that was around for a long time, is that IF they were discovered, enemies could take advantage by BLACKMAIL. So, they'd be a threat to the military, if that happened. (Getting caught came with a price they'd like to avoid.)

In today's Bonkey world "blackmail" isn't needed; since "disclosure" is supposed to disrupt the voting process; and throw elections. And, one of the pieces of "pro-machinery" in the Bonkey system, is to make republicans so unhappy they forget (how to) vote.

One thing fer shur. Larry Craig knew his urges. ANd, more often than not didn't have to flash his "senator's business card" in the bargain. Is he "bright enough" to stay in office? You want my answer? I don't vote in Idaho. That's my answer.

No, I'm not surprised that there are homosexual men who are also ambitious. And, you'd find them in all walks of life. Ya meet them everyday. You rub shoulders with them all the time. You really shouldn't be judging people on their sexual orientation. Doesn't tell ya a thing about competence. For senators? For that you need to know their voting record. And, if you approve of it. Or not. What else is there when you go to vote?

Posted by Monkei | August 27, 2007 6:29 PM

This looks real bad, if Sen. Craig really did proposition an undercover cop in a public restroom of an international airport, in a way which could not be misunderstood.

Do Republican senators usually plead guilty when they are innocent?

Posted by John | August 27, 2007 6:34 PM

Oh my goodness, does this mean his poor wife will have to stand with him behind a mic and pledge her support.

Its looking more and more like Hillary '08, with Republicans like these, the Dems will not have to work very hard. This just adds to the GOP base's disgust with our party.

Posted by Monkei | August 27, 2007 6:36 PM

One of the old shibboleths, about homosexuality, that was around for a long time, is that IF they were discovered, enemies could take advantage by BLACKMAIL. So, they'd be a threat to the military, if that happened. (Getting caught came with a price they'd like to avoid

If we can't count on our Republican Senators to stand up to blackmailing gays in public restrooms how can we trust them to stand up to and defeat terrorists around the world?

Posted by docjim505 | August 27, 2007 6:46 PM

I've gotta throw in with I R A Darth Aggie: it ain't the act of soliciting a prostitute (bad enough) that gets me. What REALLY ticks me off is the attempt to throw his weight around.

No mercy for lawmakers who are lawmbreakers. Throw the book at 'em. If Craig had any decency, he'd kill himself. If the GOP leadership had any decency, they'd give him a pistol, two cartridges (he's a senator and is probably too stupid to do it right on the first try), a bottle of cheap whiskey and a note that says, "You know what to do. Dumbass."

Posted by bayam | August 27, 2007 6:48 PM

Wasn't he accused in the last election of being gay? Didn't everyone defend him against such baseless scurilous attacks?

Yes, hindsight tell us those were entirely baseless attacks!

By the way, you didn't know homosexuals look for sex in toilets with strangers? Not news to me. And, I've never been in a men's toilet, ever, in my life

Carol is too funny. Well, someone needs to explain the gay lifestyle to Captain's more naive readers. It's not unsual for the police to start casing an area when the local gay community starts terrorizing a large number of straight men. It's not overzealous police work to a straight man who experiences this kind of harrassment. It's also a matter of public health (think gay men, AIDS, and unprotected sex). I wouldn't be surprised if this particular restroom had become a favorite among gay fliers and Craig knew exactly why he wanted to visit the Twin Cities.

All I can tell you is that I'm going to freak out next time I'm in the restroom if I hear any foot tapping. Carol may have known about that signal but I'm more naive and had no idea.

Final thought- Republicans need to start a 'gay club' so they can unvent their homosexual tendencies on each other and not get caught.

Posted by bayam | August 27, 2007 7:01 PM

Quote from Craig's home page. Priceless:


"At the time of this incident, I complained to the police that they were misconstruing my actions. I was not involved in any inappropriate conduct.
"I should have had the advice of counsel in resolving this matter. In hindsight, I should not have pled guilty. I was trying to handle this matter myself quickly and expeditiously."

He can always seek to overturn this case on Judge Judy or the People's Court? What's so inappropriate about playing a little footsie with your stall-mate?

Posted by Bennett | August 27, 2007 7:14 PM

"Final thought- Republicans need to start a 'gay club' so they can unvent their homosexual tendencies on each other and not get caught."

I don't usually agree with Bayam on much of anything (no offense) but I think he sort of has a point, although perhaps not the one he intended to make.

I don't really care about which side of the plate the Senator chooses to swing from but it's clear he's well aware that many other people might care a lot about this. This is why he sneaks around in public restrooms looking to score.

But it's amazingly indiscreet. And so I also sort of agree with Monkei when he talks about how this kind of behavior can be used to blackmail someone (although I think Monkei was joking around about this).

Incredible lack of judgment. And arrogance on top of that, trying to use his position to intimidate the police officer. I don't want to trust this guy with anything. Either keep it zipped or use some common sense. Gay, straight, bi, whatever. Anyone in public life should know this.

Posted by JEM | August 27, 2007 7:15 PM

So, in other words, the next time one finds oneself in the men's room and the guy in the next stall starts tapping out butt-buddy code on the floor, the proper response is "EXCUSE ME, SENATOR, BUT I'M A DEMOCRAT."

Posted by watchingthenews | August 27, 2007 7:20 PM

Just another example of GOP stall tactics.

Posted by Carol Herman | August 27, 2007 7:21 PM

JEM: That's terrific.

And, now, adding to what we supposedly know about homosexuality, is this "dance step" from the stall next door?

Did you know women, when they're in the stall, and discover there's no toilet paper to use, sometimes, knock softly on the wall. IF THEY SEE FEET in the stall, nearby. And, then they put their hand down, and wiggle their fingers. Seinfeld riffs on this one.

And, about the only thing I don't get, is why would a married man not teach his wife to stick a dildo up his butt? It's far less riskier. And, it would fall into the "better or worse" deal. I'd imagine, when a woman is married to someone famous enough to draw these headlines, how hard is it to shove a dildo in, instead? Kind'a like a giant Preparation H.

Instead, Larry Craig's career is fini. Lucianne is also running this headline. So, lots of conservatives are having to deal with this subject, yet again. (As if being a Bonkey can say ya from being queer.)

Posted by bayam | August 27, 2007 7:24 PM

Gem,

I think that if it had been a Democrat, there would have been no problem because the Democrat would be openly gay. It appears, however, that a number of conservative legislators are in fact living a very hypocritical double life while hiding their true sexual orientation.

I'd like to Carol to contribute her insight and explain to us what the series of events in the restroom suggests- was Craig offering to be the giver or receiver?

It would be interesting to hear Rudy's reaction to this series of events. Given his interest in cross-dressing, perhaps he'd express more sympathy and support for Craig than other Republicans.

Posted by Teresa | August 27, 2007 7:25 PM

You have to wonder about how psycho someone is who can consistently vote against gay rights issues and do this kind of thing. That's got to be a whole lot of self-loathing. These rumours have been flying around Craig a long time. I think he had to publically deny them earlier this summer. You'd think he could be more discreet than a public bathroom.

Posted by richard mcenroe | August 27, 2007 7:34 PM

It's a shame he wasn't a gay Democrat; he'd be set for life. Right, Congressman Frank?

Posted by Tom Shipley | August 27, 2007 7:40 PM

I was just at the Minneapolis airport, and I have to agree with some of the other posters... i have no idea why anyone would try and pick up someone in one of the bathrooms there. Especially a US senator.

I guess this guy had it right. From Wikipedia:

On October 17, 2006, gay activist Mike Rogers wrote on his blog, "I have done extensive research into this case, including trips to the Pacific Northwest to meet with men who have say they have physical relations with the Senator. I have also met with a man here in Washington, D.C., who says the same -- and that these incidents occurred in the bathrooms of Union Station. None of these men know each other, or knew that I was talking to others. They all reported similar personal characteristics about the Senator, which lead me to believe, beyond any doubt, that their stories are valid."[3] Craig has denied the allegation, calling it "completely ridiculous".[19]

Posted by Bennett | August 27, 2007 7:40 PM

"And, about the only thing I don't get, is why would a married man not teach his wife to stick a dildo up his butt? It's far less riskier. And, it would fall into the "better or worse" deal. I'd imagine, when a woman is married to someone famous enough to draw these headlines, how hard is it to shove a dildo in, instead? Kind'a like a giant Preparation H."

For heaven's sake, Carol. I'm all for free and open discussion but my goodness. And anyway, I don't think the Senator was interested in that, I think he was looking for some Clinton style activity (just not with a female intern).

But geesh...Captain Ed might have to put a parental advisory sign up.

Posted by MarkJ | August 27, 2007 7:40 PM

Okay, Dems, yuk it up. But remember, among other lovelies in the Senate and House, you have:

1. A drooling, nonagenerian ex-Klansman whose name now adorns just about every public outhouse in West Virginia.

2. A wealthy reprobate who has never convincingly explained why he left a girl to drown after his car plunged off a bridge.

3. A gay Representative reprimanded by the House for his association with a male prostitute who, it seems, was running a prostitution ring out of said Representative's home.

Yeah, I think Craig should resign, but remember Dems: it's always easier to hold others to high moral standards...if you don't have any yourselves.

Posted by CASEYL | August 27, 2007 7:45 PM

Closeted gays who try to get some action in public bathrooms, hit on teenage pages, or kill themselves and their estranged lovers. Pedophiles using their positions in Homeland Security to cruise the nets, or exposing themselves to kids, and molesting a few of them.

Straight men who knock women around, or force their wives to have public sex, or are into the serial adultery-divorce-remarriage thing.

Not to mention the one with interesting kinks: Livingston with his S&B habit, Vitter with his infantile coprophilia.

And we still don't know what really went on with that whole Jeff Guckert thing, though rumors persist that he was makin' gay whoopee with highly-placed WH officials.

What is it with the GOP?

And the GOP is the "Family Values" Party? Whose family - the Borgias?

Posted by bayam | August 27, 2007 7:48 PM

MarkJ-

You only named 1 case of exceptional behavior (given the low standard that exists among politicians) and even a total of 3 examples isn't very impressive.

I'm no Pelosi or Reid supporter, but it seems to me that when 2 supposedly conservative Republicans are outed with a two year period, you could make a better case. Statistically speaking, chances are that Reid is far from the last Republican living a secret life, while using every opportunity to attack the moral fabric of people who live alternative lifestyles.

Posted by Jim C | August 27, 2007 7:48 PM

Watchingthenews,

Man, that's BAD. You owe me a new monitor, my old one has pepsi all over it now.

Posted by syn | August 27, 2007 7:49 PM

Oh I do wonder teresa, lots of men have same-sex escapades but they would never consider themselves "gay"; no love spent on one-night stands. Many men just like having unrestricted sex and having sex with other men offers an easy way to having the tight thrill, some men go through the Madonna-whore complex, sex with other men alleviates the guilt of enjoying sex with the Madonna figure who has bore his children.

In any event I don't know what's more psychotic, those who believe sexuality is about love or those who label others by their sexual habits.

Posted by RD | August 27, 2007 7:57 PM

My comments are going to be filled with stereotyping so fair warning. I believe that Washington, D.C. has many more young homosexuals working in important but subordinate positions than the average city. Why not...they usually care about how they look and do not have to go home to the wife and kids and they are ambitious and want to be close to the seats of power. And they are angry...very. They feel it is unfair that they have to hide their homosexuality from the general public and cannot run for offices themselves as homosexuals. I think that a lot of the anger against Republicans expressed as anger against President Bush is the anger of homosexuals against what they consider the puritanical standards of the Republicans which they feel suppresses them in a don't ask, don't tell culture in order to keep their jobs as aides to Senators and Representatives. They will go crazy with this Senator Craig business and he had fair warning from them in the last election-unfortunately a stupid Republican is just as stupid as a stupid Democrat. They will be on him like ants on sugar and he won't stand a chance. It's the hypocrisy stupid and he has voted against some of the laws that they are interested in seeing passed. (I am not condoning any of this- it is just what it is.)

Posted by John | August 27, 2007 8:18 PM

Couldn't he have just used Craig's list?

I fly into MSP all the time and the first thing I do after getting off the usually delayed flight is head to the terminal restroom. I guess I am naive, I am a straight guy, but I had no idea that predatory Republicans are on the prowl. No idea.

I wonder how big Hillary's landslide is going to be?

Posted by lexhamfox | August 27, 2007 8:20 PM

It is so silly... there are so many other avenues for this type of cruising which don't involve breaking the law or getting outed and bringing that upon his wife and those who have worked hard for his success. As others have said, the lewd act doesn't outrage as much as the passing of the card thinking that somehow he was above the law.

Posted by Bennett | August 27, 2007 8:34 PM

On the political side of this the current Idaho governor is a Republican and if Craig resigns now, presumably the governor would appoint a Republican as replacement. This person could then run again in 2008.

Idaho has been a reliably "red" state and I don't see this changing that. As to the political implications nationwide, I see no fall out. I can't see the Republican base deciding to stay home because of this or voting Democrat and I don't see moderates and independents giving this much thought. Nor do I see it motivating the Democrat base to rev it up and get out there.

One thing is undeniable though. You can't run on traditional values and not expect to get hit over this kind of thing. For me it's not the lifestyle issue or even the hypocrisy, it's the lack of judgment.

Vitter to me is completely different, not because it was hetero either. It's because he's from Louisiana. Also a reliably "red" state on the Presidential level but a different kind of red than Idaho I think. Louisiana folk are pretty cosmpolitan when it comes to certain male behavior. They might tsk tsk but then they wink wink.

Posted by LuckyBogey | August 27, 2007 9:11 PM

Every time I read Carol's posts I learn something. I did not know about the stall "dance step". Next time I'm in a public restroom (especially in Capt Ed's hometown airport), I will pick the stall on the end and place my briefcase on the side of the other stall. Thanks Carol for heads up!

Posted by Teresa | August 27, 2007 9:11 PM

Syn -- You wrote: "In any event I don't know what's more psychotic, those who believe sexuality is about love or those who label others by their sexual habits. "

The reason that this doesn't happen to Democrats is that they actually don't have to HIDE being gay. We don't care if anyone is gay. I think Craig has psychological problems because he pursued a vigorous "anti-gay" agenda while he is picking up men in bathrooms. If I was his wife, his bags would be packed and waiting on the curb. God knows what kind of diseases he has exposed her to by picking up perfect strangers in bathrooms. (And I'd say the same thing about Vitter sleeping with female prostitutes and Clinton sleeping with interns.)

Posted by bains | August 27, 2007 9:35 PM

While both were in effect engaging in infidelity, the difference between Vitter and Craig is that the former was entering into contractual agreements. Both parties knew what was being sought and agreed on the terms of those services. Now, had Vitter been prowling The Block (used to be the redlight district of Bal'mer when I lived in DC) seeking a tug job on the sly in an poorly lit entrance alcove... or had Craig been seeking discrete services from a male prostitute, then I'd say the fouls were similar.

Basically, it's the creep factor - soliciting sexual favors from someone you have barely seen and absolutely do not know in the public bathroom of a frikin airport - come on!

Posted by filistro | August 27, 2007 9:48 PM

So what's the deal with politicians, preachers, and sexual pecadillos?

I wonder if a heightened sex urge is part of the same personality type that causes a man to crave power, makes him want to be the leader... the guy on the stage or behind the pulpit... the one that everybody looks up to. The Alpha Male syndrome, you might say.

Maybe it's all just testosterone?

(Which would be yet another good argument, by the way, for more women in politics.)

Posted by Mike R | August 27, 2007 9:56 PM

"I wonder how big Hillary's landslide is going to be?"

Mondale sized.

A year is an eternity in politics. And all the Kings Horses wouldn't touch that hag, much les the general electorate.

Anything that helps her eget noiminated is only a boon to Fred next november.

Everybody sees these things as if the election is tommorow. It ain't. Better to purge it now.

Posted by yupr.com | August 27, 2007 9:58 PM

watchingthenews, that was brilliant.

Posted by rachel | August 27, 2007 10:01 PM

I fly into MSP all the time and the first thing I do after getting off--

Whoah! ::blink::

--the usually delayed flight is head to the terminal restroom.

Oh. Never mind.

Posted by Monkei | August 27, 2007 10:05 PM

Mark R, you don't get it do you? You are part of that "they do it too crowd" of GOP people whom we have all come to expect anytime there is anything of questionable antics on the part of elected GOP officials, in other words, most of the time.

Posted by Bennett | August 27, 2007 10:07 PM

Hi Filistro:

you wrote: "I wonder if a heightened sex urge is part of the same personality type that causes a man to crave power..."

Viagra, my friend, Viagra. That's where the snap, crackle and pop is coming from these days in all these aged male creatures.

Posted by Hugh Beaumont | August 27, 2007 10:07 PM

Can't these clowns be discreet or better yet, get acquainted with Rosie Palm while they are in a position of public trust?

Good God men! Get a grip!

Posted by Mark R | August 27, 2007 10:18 PM

Monkei,

I am not part of any problem, I am just defining the reality of politics. Apparently, you don't get that.

Hold on to your 'President HR Clinton' fantasies if it comforts you. You won't have to give them up until next November.

However, if you seriously think this is going to cause one Republican to stay home next november when the unquestionably the worst Democratic candidate in history is on the top of the ticket, you are mistaken.

Most people don't know who Larry Craig is and those who do will have forgotten in 14 months. She ain't gonna carry Idaho under any condition, hell, she won't come within 20 points of carrying it and it dman sure won't help her anywhere she might have a chance.

The pivitol issue next election will be immigration and her record on this will only add another dead albatross to the fleet attached firmly to her neck.

Larry Craig in 07 won't polish your obvious turd enough to get her over the finish line.

In politics, timing is everything. This would have been bad in late October 08.

We have another year of the Surge working and the Dems in congress making asses of themselves to more than obfuscate this into a non-story by then.

Posted by CaseyL | August 27, 2007 10:26 PM

We have another year of the Surge working

Last I heard, two-thirds of Maliki's government had resigned, and there were rumors of a coup. There is no rapproachment between Sunni and Shia. Iraqis are still fleeing the country. There is still no reliable electrical service, nor a municipal water supply. Hospitals are still waiting areas to die in, and morgues are still overflowing with bodies. Daily asualty counts are still in double-digits.

If that's the surge "working," I'd hate to see what not-working looks like.

Posted by John | August 27, 2007 10:34 PM

Rachel wrote:

rachel :

I fly into MSP all the time and the first thing I do after getting off--

Whoah! ::blink::

--the usually delayed flight is head to the terminal restroom.

Oh. Never mind.
************
Hey, no fair, you are reading my mind.
Besides this whole thing is another Senate 'stall' tactic.

Posted by DaMav | August 27, 2007 10:42 PM

Craig should not resign because the Republican caucus should have removed him immediately. It would send a message that is long overdue that we do not tolerate this type of behavior in our party.

It is time for a zero tolerance policy in the Republican Party toward misbehavior and breaking the law. You want to be a Republican Senator, you have to meet the standard. What a disgusting embarassment.

Posted by Mike R | August 27, 2007 10:44 PM

CaseyL,

The new talking points from the DNC are keep moving the goal posts. I see you got the memo.

Unfortunately, it ain't gonna save you.

The Surge working means bad guys die in greater numbers and the soldiers and civilians die in lesser numbers.

In that metric, the surge is undeniably working, just read Michael Yon's latest for hard evidence.

Your pals in the drive-by media long ago estabilshed the body count metric as the only one that counts, it is to entrenched now for you to change it. Everything else from the DNC is just so-much mental masturbation at this point.

Admit it, you have been too clever by half, you have hoisted yourselves on your own pitard and are in complete denial.

The meme is the Iraq must fail becuae Bush sucks.

If A does not follow B then the whole fiction collapses.

Posted by Joe | August 27, 2007 10:50 PM

Mark R , Monkei is right, the ole "Dems do it too" don't fly anymore. The Gop has become a party of incompetents (Rummy, Gonzo) and repressed gay men (Foley,Craig) great image for a party already in freefall.Think Rudy will beat Hillary? Maybe, but Rudy is more LIBERAL than Hillary> Think Hillary's got baggage? Rudy the cross-dresser has way more. Married my cousin, cheated on my wife, the list goes on. We'll see how well the surge is working in April when troop constraints will require a brigade a month to come home. The neo-con dream of permanent occupation will come crashing down Ass-clown

Posted by Cornellian | August 27, 2007 10:52 PM

I'm not sure Senator Craig's supporting an anti-gay agenda while soliciting men for sex really indicates psychological problems on his part. It's also possible he's merely cynical and convinced himself that that kinda of agenda would be sufficient cover for his extra-marital liasons. He certainly wouldn't be the first Republican to take that approach.

And the reason this is much less likely to happen to Democrats is that you can be gay and still get elected as a Democrat. In today's Republican party, being gay is anathema, regardless of what you think about taxes, abortion, foreign policy or anything else.

Posted by Pierre | August 27, 2007 10:53 PM

Too funny! Did the democrats infiltrate us 20 years ago with a bunch of sleepers?

We are going to get President Clinton because the Republicans are so corrupt that they looking for sex in airport bathrooms. No Republican politician will condemn that sort of perverted sick behavior for fear of angering the gays.

Posted by Mike R | August 27, 2007 11:01 PM

"Think Rudy will beat Hillary? Maybe, but Rudy is more LIBERAL than Hillary> Think Hillary's got baggage? Rudy the cross-dresser has way more. Married my cousin, cheated on my wife, the list goes on. We'll see how well the surge is working in April when troop constraints will require a brigade a month to come home. The neo-con dream of permanent occupation will come crashing down Ass-clown"

Sorry Joe, It won't be Rudy with all his baggage, you don't get to pick the Republican nominee.

All crap like this does is help Fred against Rudy and further ensure 'Hillary (49% will not vote for me under any circumstances) Clinton' gets her Mondale treatment next fall.

Like I told Monkey, keep your fantasy of president turd until next november.

You DU/Kossite/Glue Huffers Post crowd can deny reality all you want to but in the end, reality will not be denied.

Posted by Bennett | August 27, 2007 11:09 PM

I agree with those who are saying you can't just point the finger at Dem misconduct and somehow it all evens out. Republicans are going to take a hit every time this happens, for lots of different reasons, the duplicity, the hypocrisy, the cringe factor, etc.

And someone else (Tom Shipley?) pointed out that apparently there have been reports of this guy's escapades for some time. Someone else mentioned as far back as 1983 he was supposedly denying it. Just like with Foley, presumably people in leadership knew. Are they enabling this kind of stuff by keeping their mouths shut? Because Craig wins elections?

The problem is, you can't just run these people out of the party. It feeds into the perception that Republicans are anti-gay. And there are gay Republicans believe it or not. People who support the party for reasons that have nothing to do with the so-called gay agenda. They deserve to feel welcome in the party too (which I guess maybe that's a role for Senator Craig...j/k).

But the GOP can't just keep closing it eyes to this kind of stuff and point our fingers elsewhere. The disconnect between the message and the messengers is something we really can't ignore. Just my two cents.

And CaseyL: you need to read Captain Ed's blog more often. He's got several posts recently about what's been happening in Iraq.

Posted by Stan | August 27, 2007 11:11 PM

I really wouldn't worry about losing his specific seat to the Democrats. Idaho is staunchly a red state. Arguably the reddest.

Posted by Mark F. | August 27, 2007 11:12 PM

This is odd. I've flown in and out of the Minneapolis-St. Paul airports, both terminals, and nature has dictated that I use the restrooms. I've never heard any odd noises or seen any odd behavior. I take my carry-on luggage into my stall and I've tapped my feet when I've been keyed up, and until the Craig case surfaced and the howling lynch mobs started gathering, I had no idea that that behavior was even remotely homosexual. I happen to be completely heterosexual by any definition, and if I were approached by someone after I took my baggage into a stall and tapped my feet, the reaction would be far from friendly. The only time I ever was tempted to do anything sexual at the airport was when a sloshed young woman wanted to take me into a housekeeping closet to "thank" me for helping her get completely across the terminal so she wouldn't miss her plane. Although I think the overwhelmingly likely conclusion is that Craig is lying now to cover himself, I don't like the idea that so many folks are assuming that it is a prima facie case that a person is gay if they take their luggage in their stall and tap their feet. In any event, should anyone assume my behavior to be a solicitation, they'll likely leave the airport john on a gurney.

Posted by JEM | August 27, 2007 11:19 PM

I don't give a damn that he's gay. I don't even really care that he felt the need to stay in the closet. Maybe the voters of Idaho would have, I don't know, I doubt they would have thought much of a gay man in a supposedly-hetero marriage.

I do give a damn that he felt the need to risk such complete embarrassment - to himself, his family, his party, and his constituents - by going for the gusto in public restrooms with any Tom, Dick, or Detective Sgt Harry that happened to pop in.

I hope he now does the right thing and resigns so that Idaho can put in a reliable GOP Senator with enough time to build a defensible track record before the election.

Posted by Carol Herman | August 27, 2007 11:35 PM

Larry Craig PLED GUILTY!

He also tried to get out of it by showing the undercover cop a business card that read he was a senator.

So, on the ground that HE PLED GUILTY, he's known since early June, when he got caught; that it wasn't gonna remain a secret.

Perhaps, he thought it would? Doesn't make him the "brightest lightbulb" now does it?

And, ya know what? He's elected in IDAHO. Seems to me it's up to IDA-HO-ANS to decide. And, if the GOP senses a meltdown, by the time PRIMARIES roll around, Craig will have competition.

The other thing he might benefit from, however, is getting money from gay organizations. Since part of the vote getting process deals with donations.

You can't run without support. And, you can't run if the money isn't coming in.

Does Larry Craig have to run in 2008? WHY?

According to Drudge, where this is up on his headlines, Larry Craig is saying "he's sorry he pled guilty."

Was "pleading guilty" supposed to make this story go away? Geez.

Posted by Carol Herman | August 27, 2007 11:51 PM

Let's see if I understand this one, correctly. Because Larry Craig got exposed by DRUDGE. This is not the MSM, here, either. And, it sure sounds like lots of Conservatives are ANGRY. Angry, at a married man, "fooling around on his wife," by hopping TOILET SEATS. And, "asking for it" in the rear.

Either way, this is a form of "cheating" on your marriage partner.

And, it's hardly likely that Larry Craig remains a viable candidate to be re-elected in 2008.

I guess marriages, and homosexuallity, are at odds, huh? No matter how much "understanding" we're told exists out there, in affirmative action land. It sure isn't one of those things that flies, when it gets exposed.

Wasn't kept in the closet, either, here.

And, ya know what? I really feel bad for his wife and kids. There's no closet safe enough for them, now. Though I'm sure Craig's family would like to crawl into a hole right now, and hide. And, it's here that most people are gonna be very sympathetic.

Homosexuality is NOT contagious! It's passed from one generation to the next, by MOTHERS. It sits on the mitrochondria. Marlene Zak has written about this, and you bet. Very interesting stuff.

Not all that unusual, either. But we haven't arrived at the place, yet, where homosexual behaviors are as acceptable as heterosexual behaviors.

Nope. No solutions to this, in sight. If "acceptance" is the only known cure. How will that ever fly? Especially, to the obvious part that it was the wife and kids, here, who were deceived. You thought it was the voters?

Posted by Carol Herman | August 28, 2007 12:29 AM

I said "Zak." The Professor of Biology whose written about our DNA, and our sexual selections, is named MARLENE ZUK. And, yes, there are books out there for everybody.

The "crime" by the way, where Larry Craig got caught, goes beyond doing a foot tapping in a bathroom stall.

Homosexual's behavior? Yup. He got caught.

Do we want police who do this? Going about catching homosexuals who are using "stalls" to obtain adult sex?

Got me. Women don't go into men's bathrooms.

And, I just wonder, when did Larry Craig tell his wife? His staff in DC?

Wives and staff tend to know when they're working for homosexuals, or are married to them.

The arrest was in early June.

This story is breaking now?

The Internet's FAST, though, once a story breaks. Because it's at Drudge, here, and up on Lucianne. Where it's discussed as POLITICS.

Dunno if Larry Craig has to resign; but his chances for re-election in 2008 have hit all sorts of snags. Including his ability to raise money.

Yup. Party differences. I think it's true that the Bonkeys are affirmative action; and hence not a party where homosexuals are outcasts.

This isn't true about IDAHO.

Meanwhile, in Marlene Zuk's research, she claims that homosexuality is passed by the MOTHERS. Because it comes off of the mitrochondria.

By the way, a woman can carry this AND BE HETEROSEXUAL, herself. So, for those who go "into the closet," the place to look around is the mom's family tree. Where others are hiding out. Just so you know. And, if you're curious? Go to Amazon. Time well spent. Look for Marlene Zuk's books. It'll do ya a world of good.

Posted by Carl | August 28, 2007 12:39 AM

The CNN special on "Gods Warriors" shows clips of Falwell telling his "flock" that in this next election, "security" must take priority over "social issues".

Ok, so Rudy's drag shows, gay pornstars and prostitutes serving as public speakers for conservative causes, and now Senator Larry Craig's toilet sex are OK with everyone.

I thought I had a fair grasp on the presidential race, but now it looks like whoever gets "The Village People" endorsement is going to win this
thing.

Carl

Posted by Carol Herman | August 28, 2007 12:45 AM

Nope, Carl, it's not Guiliani's campaign, it's ROMNEY's. That's what I found out when I clicked on a link over at Drudge:

"Larry Craig quits Romney campaign as news of men's room arrest spreads."

As to Larry Craig's homosexuality, it's been known by "insiders" since 1983. Rumors didn't affect his "electability." Now, it's on the table.

Again, it's the people of Idaho who have the choice to continue with this guy. Or not.

Can't imagine Romney's very pleased, right now, though.

Posted by Carol Herman | August 28, 2007 12:58 AM

Casey L., I don't agree with your Irak analysis.

I sent to DEBKA. Nothing there. I went to Iraq The Model, and saw that ALLAWI is trying to push Maliki out. BUT HE WASN'T ELECTED BY THE PEOPLE!

Do remember, that the voters in Irak marginalized Allawi, when he was running; but it was Maliki who won.

It's true, that Irak has a democracy. You can tell by all the mishigas that's playing out, now. With CNN (I saw a clip on the Net), trying to push Allawi down everyone's throat.

I just shrug these days when our CIA and CNN guys try to change governments. See? Olmert's still prime minister. Their jerky tricks tend not to work.

As to the Kurds and Shi'a lining up, I agree with that. Because Maliki comes in under 50%, with the Shi'a, alone.

As to the Iraqis "running away," that's a good one! You should have seen what happened to Omar, at Iraq The Model, when he was told his American visa (so he could attend an American graduate school program), had come through. But it was at the embassy in Amman. Jordan stopped him at the airport. They stop all Iraqis. Letting very few into their country. Omar went home two days later, without his visa.

And, Miliki's still prime minister in Irak.

That factions maneuver? THE WEAKER THE BACK BENCHERS, ARE, in a parliamentary system, the dirtier they play. Because it's a system that rewards the marginal ones when things get "tight."

Back to domestic politics.

Posted by jay | August 28, 2007 2:30 AM

Is this really the way gay men get together?

If so, is it an wonder that social disease is epidemic amoung gay men?

Posted by swabjockey05 | August 28, 2007 3:02 AM


C'mon you mean none of you guys ever did it in a public bathroom...or a public place in general? Let me tell you, it's not as much the sex as the fear of getting caught. Pretty big rush I'm here to tell you. I'm sure with this guy, the power thing pushed it over the top.

Of course, my partner was a volunteer. She didn't need "solicitation".

I wonder what he did that pushed it to "illegal"? How much "encouragement" did the cop give him to drop trousers? I’ve had these cretins approach me in public heads too. More than once. Yes it was very uncomfortable. But at least I was not "exposed" to it for very long…I could always leave and go to a different head. This Critter’s a real "piece of work". Can't wait until you guys make me bunk and shower with cretins like this on Navy ships/subs. I could care less if Monkey, Baydum, Ship and the rest of the trolls are "gay". They only cross the line when they're walking around the showers/berthing area with woodies. Playing with themselves while they gaze at their hapless bunk mate. Maybe we can get curtains on ALL the racks? Is there anything in the UCMJ against whispering sweet nothings at climax?

Posted by jiminy | August 28, 2007 4:03 AM

[Deleted for tastelessness.]

Posted by Justgoto | August 28, 2007 4:27 AM

Capt, for the most part, this is a fun post... but isn't it odd how it ugly it can get?

Posted by the friendly grizzly | August 28, 2007 4:35 AM

Ladies and Gentlemen: I am, to use a polite term, one of nature's bachelors. Let me assure you that public restroom sex is the furthest thing from my desires. It is, to me, pathetic and sad that someone would do this sort of thing, or the variation on the theme: cruising truck stops.

I normally feel a sense of pity for folks who do stuff like this. But because of his stridency and voting record, had the esteemed Mr. Craig appoached me in that manner I'd have turned him in faster than you can say "earmarks".

Craig is no different from Roy Cohn or Terry Dolan: the laddie doth protest too much.

From QueerTheory.com/histories: The "shriller you are," admitted Terry Dolan, the founder of the National Conservative Political Action Committee, in 1982, "the easier it is to raise money..."

The GOP, or, Gawd's Ordained Party, has found the perfect wedge issue to rally their base. While metaphorically bending the country over and ramming it home with things like amnesty, outrageous spending, No Child Left UnBoredToTears, and trying to buy off seniors with socialised prescriptions, they need only yell "Look! Over there! HOMOS!!!" Just turn that little mouse called homosexuality loose in the room. The "good Christian" Republicans will hike up their skirts, jump up on a chair, and scream "save me! save me! write more laws! Give me an amendement!" It's the GOP's very own "gramma will lose her social security" gambit.

You know the Republicans: get government out of our lives, unless it is to control those faggots and compel voluntary prayer.

In closing: Craig's use of the Kennedyesque 'do you know who I AM?" is, to me, far more repulsive. The SOB thinks of himself as some sort of royalty.

Posted by Justgoto | August 28, 2007 4:55 AM

Um, Carol Herman, read Carl's comment again.

Posted by harleycon5 | August 28, 2007 5:04 AM

First of all the Senator committed a crime, and it was the very risk of getting caught that was so enticing in the first place.
I have never understood, and perhaps someone can answer this question, why homosexuality seems so steeped in "thrill" sexuality.
The behavior cannot be disguised, as it is well known that tapping ones foot, then slipping a foot under the side of the stall is an indication of "come on over, sailor" and not "Hey guy, give me some TP" lol.
Another issue which I never seem to see addressed is that Craig was also cheating on his wife. Having sex with someone else IS cheating, regardless of the offender's taste, in my opinion.

Craig is just another Political sleazy bum. It's time to clean house.

Posted by jiminy | August 28, 2007 5:27 AM

Btw, have you seen Fred Thompson's wife? Talk about Anna Nicole syndrome. Can't imagine her as first lady. We know this Republican men like em young, whatever their sex may be.
Another thing before you start waving your finger at us dems for being immoral, look into your own house. The only thing that concerns you is the state of your party. The party first and everything else afterwards, including the NATION.

Posted by onlineanalyst | August 28, 2007 5:30 AM

Did Sen. Craig really say, "In hindsight, I should not have pled guilty"?

Too funny! It appears that he should have had more foresight to keep his hind less compromisable.

Posted by the friendly grizzly | August 28, 2007 6:09 AM

The behavior cannot be disguised, as it is well known that tapping ones foot, then slipping a foot under the side of the stall is an indication of "come on over, sailor" and not "Hey guy, give me some TP" lol.

Well-known by whom? I am being serious here...

Posted by jiminy | August 28, 2007 6:22 AM

Well-known by whom? I am being serious here...

grizz apparently it is well known by other gay men.
What would you think if some dude played footsie with you while you were taking a crap, I bet you would freak out. In fact, your first response would be wtf and not oh he just wants toilet paper.

Posted by Tom Shipley | August 28, 2007 6:32 AM

Well-known by whom? I am being serious here...

I guess people who troll for sex in public bathrooms. From what I read, this cop has busted many guys doing the same thing. He probably knows the ins-and-outs (no pun intended) of anonymous gays sex in public bathrooms pretty well.

Posted by patrick neid | August 28, 2007 6:40 AM

All I can say is thank god bathrooms are not co-ed.....there would be a lot of hypocrites running around.

Posted by Tom Shipley | August 28, 2007 7:19 AM

All I can say is thank god bathrooms are not co-ed.....there would be a lot of hypocrites running around.

In my experience, it takes a lot more than rubbing a woman's foot underneath a stall for her to have sex with you.

Posted by Ragin' Dave | August 28, 2007 8:13 AM

The fact that he was trolling for sex is going to sink him in Idaho. Gay sex, straight sex, who cares? He's married, he shouldn't be having ANY kind of sex with a stranger in a public restroom! Period! End of story!

I know that I won't be voting for him in '08.

Posted by kreiz | August 28, 2007 8:21 AM

Craig's explanation for the "foot touch" was truly classic- "I have a wide stance". What is that? NFL linemen have wide stances- you don't, Larry.

Posted by I.J. | August 28, 2007 9:30 AM

A few things here, from an avowed independent.

1. Democrats don't get nailed for this stuff because their party allows them to come out of the closet. You don't see Dems caught in restrooms flashing their senator cards or accusing black people of being scary enough to make them wanna suck dick because a gay Democrat can just go to the nearby gay club and pick up some guy and nobody cares. Why? Because they've taken all the political wind out of the sail. How did Barney Frank get through his scandal? Balls and hubris. He stood up there and basically gave America the finger to condemning his gay boy love. Icky, but it's effective. It's one of the oldest "reverse psychology" political moves in the book. "Yes I'm (insert embarassing social stigma here) and proud of it!" And Dems aren't the only ones who fall for that.

2. Larry Craig has been known to be gay for so friggin' long it was just a matter of time. Rumor has it from back in the day that he dated a Bush woman, but the relationship fell apart due to "lack of intimacy." In 1992 he went on network news to shoot down "rumors" that he was having sex with.....wait for it.....male pages! Oh, and he's a stubborn SOB. He might hang on til 08. Dems will wait, and then bring back th pages rumor. And Mike R if you think somehow Republicans are going to be miraculously sex scandal free from here til 08...well, good luck with that.

3. We're seeing the dam break here. You can bet Dems are hiring people to dig into every closet gay Republican in a position of power (and everyone generally knows who they are). They'll wait...and wait...then bang! October surprise! Three or four new investigations "leaked" to the media about sex with pages. I'll tell you right now that they are sitting on information regarding Jim Guckert/Gannon..the guy who got a press pass under a fake name while moonlighting as a gay military escort. The White House logs have him logging in to visit someone in the evenings and "accidentally" never logging out.
You think the attack dogs have just "forgotten" something like that? (Rumor had it that it was Rove, who people have long claimed frequented "leather" bars incognito).
Look at the miserable array of vaguely closeted social liberals running with Rs behind their names. Don't bet on SUPERFRED saving the day, either. His campaign is already struggling and he hasn't declared yet. And the moment that old white man gets out on stage with that young little nubile wife of his the dems are gonna howl. You better hope it's Hillary v. Fred to avoid a staggering loss. Can you imagine the catastrophe if it's Protestant Sainted by the media Barack "Audacity of Hope" Obama v. Rudy "married my cousin and lived with gay people while dissing my wife in public" Giuliani?

Republican pundits on the hill are advising both senators and republican leaders to prepare for an 08 catastrophe. Sun Tsu said that winners win the battle in their head and heart before they go to war, and losers go to war, then try to find a way to win. 22 senate seats up for grabs, and most of them far from as safe as Craig's WAS. Only 12 Dem seats up, most of them on serious blue-state lockdown. Wall Street firms are giving more to Dems than Republicans. I'll say that again: WALL STREET FIRMS ARE CONTRIBUTING MORE TO DEMOCRATS THAN REPUBLICANS. When has that happened before? Never.

"victory" in 08 will be, for Republicans, keeping the Dems from owning both the White House AND and Senate supermajority (or close enough that it doesn't matter).
When Jerry Falwell (R.I.P.) tells his flock to hold their nose and pull R in 08, the Republicans aren't exactly "enthusiastic."
The surge IS working, but the American people WON'T listen. And you'll see, as 08 approaches, the Republican candidates turn on Bush and the war. Why? They don't want to inherit it in 09 and then catch blame for whatever happens.

Craig might have been foot-tapping for a hummer in the bathroom, but what he achieved was helping screw Republicans on the Hill.

Posted by Dan Collins | August 28, 2007 9:30 AM

Wow. I didn't know that REI was gay.

Posted by I.J. | August 28, 2007 9:35 AM

A few things here, from an avowed independent.

1. Democrats don't get nailed for this stuff because their party allows them to come out of the closet. You don't see Dems caught in restrooms flashing their senator cards or accusing black people of being scary enough to make them wanna suck dick because a gay Democrat can just go to the nearby gay club and pick up some guy and nobody cares. Why? Because they've taken all the political wind out of the sail. How did Barney Frank get through his scandal? Balls and hubris. He stood up there and basically gave America the finger to condemning his gay boy love. Icky, but it's effective. It's one of the oldest "reverse psychology" political moves in the book. "Yes I'm (insert embarassing social stigma here) and proud of it!" And Dems aren't the only ones who fall for that.

2. Larry Craig has been known to be gay for so friggin' long it was just a matter of time. Rumor has it from back in the day that he dated a Bush woman, but the relationship fell apart due to "lack of intimacy." In 1992 he went on network news to shoot down "rumors" that he was having sex with.....wait for it.....male pages! Oh, and he's a stubborn SOB. He might hang on til 08. Dems will wait, and then bring back th pages rumor. And Mike R if you think somehow Republicans are going to be miraculously sex scandal free from here til 08...well, good luck with that.

3. We're seeing the dam break here. You can bet Dems are hiring people to dig into every closet gay Republican in a position of power (and everyone generally knows who they are). They'll wait...and wait...then bang! October surprise! Three or four new investigations "leaked" to the media about sex with pages. I'll tell you right now that they are sitting on information regarding Jim Guckert/Gannon..the guy who got a press pass under a fake name while moonlighting as a gay military escort. The White House logs have him logging in to visit someone in the evenings and "accidentally" never logging out.
You think the attack dogs have just "forgotten" something like that? (Rumor had it that it was Rove, who people have long claimed frequented "leather" bars incognito).
Look at the miserable array of vaguely closeted social liberals running with Rs behind their names. Don't bet on SUPERFRED saving the day, either. His campaign is already struggling and he hasn't declared yet. And the moment that old white man gets out on stage with that young little nubile wife of his the dems are gonna howl. You better hope it's Hillary v. Fred to avoid a staggering loss. Can you imagine the catastrophe if it's Protestant Sainted by the media Barack "Audacity of Hope" Obama v. Rudy "married my cousin and lived with gay people while dissing my wife in public" Giuliani?

Republican pundits on the hill are advising both senators and republican leaders to prepare for an 08 catastrophe. Sun Tsu said that winners win the battle in their head and heart before they go to war, and losers go to war, then try to find a way to win. 22 senate seats up for grabs, and most of them far from as safe as Craig's WAS. Only 12 Dem seats up, most of them on serious blue-state lockdown. Wall Street firms are giving more to Dems than Republicans. I'll say that again: WALL STREET FIRMS ARE CONTRIBUTING MORE TO DEMOCRATS THAN REPUBLICANS. When has that happened before? Never.

"victory" in 08 will be, for Republicans, keeping the Dems from owning both the White House AND and Senate supermajority (or close enough that it doesn't matter).
When Jerry Falwell (R.I.P.) tells his flock to hold their nose and pull R in 08, the Republicans aren't exactly "enthusiastic."
The surge IS working, but the American people WON'T listen. And you'll see, as 08 approaches, the Republican candidates turn on Bush and the war. Why? They don't want to inherit it in 09 and then catch blame for whatever happens.

Craig might have been foot-tapping for a hummer in the bathroom, but what he achieved was helping screw Republicans on the Hill.

Posted by mrs. ibrahim al-jafaari | August 28, 2007 9:58 AM

People wonder why we don't attract a wider range of qualified candidates for public office. Michael Rogers sets himself up as Exhibit #1. The personal and degrading attacks convince many people to skip the trouble, and the people who do dare to run for office usually wind up experiencing the ruination of their reputations in one form or other. It comes from all sides to some degree, but this ghastly mudslinging really marks a new low. . . .

I couldn't care less whether Craig is attracted to men or women; it's really none of my business, and none of Rogers' either. As long as he's not importuning minors, then it makes no difference to anyone except Craig and his family, and that's if the allegations have any basis in fact.

Posted by I.J. | August 28, 2007 10:07 AM

al-jafaari:
It should be all our business that he did it in a public bathroom...one where children are just as likely to be in the next stall as a grown man. Also, Craig was accused of having relationships with young male pages in the early 90s, which he denied by saying that he wasn't gay.
He plead guilty to the charges, so the "if the allegations are true" train has already left the station.
How many times has he done this? What nasty little biological time bombs did he pass on to his wife? (Maybe not many, all their children are hers from a previous marriage..that just might be a big sign about the nature of their relationship)
What if this creep was engaging with nasty activity with young pages? What did he pick up from the creeps in the bathroom stall, pass on to a fresh-faced 16 year old that he convinced to engage in gay sex while working as a page, who then later went home to his conservative district in Idaho where he married a young, virgin girl and who's now in some clinic wondering what the hell that "burning sensation" means?
It sound a bit far fetched to write it out, but that's how AIDS and other stuff got into the non-gay, non-drug using Christian American community.
I've got no problem with him being gay. I've got no problem, even, with him having sex with men. I do have a problem when he pretends to be one thing and then does the other, and then endangers everyone with his unsafe, disgusting behavior.
You think guys in bathroom stalls are concerned about condom use? Not likely. The police officer was part of a long-running sting. That means that was a "hot spot" for unsafe gay sex. If one of those guys that frequents that location had some disease, then all the "regulars" likely have it too. And they all took it home to their families.

Posted by Dennis | August 28, 2007 10:24 AM

In MA he would be a hero and run unopposed. The ddifference is Kennedy and Kerry would back him up.(see Barney and Gery) Where-as this senator will get less backing than Newt or the Attorney Gereral.

The current (perhaps all time) republican party will not engage in down and dirty politics. When the democrat party yells then crumble.

Posted by filistro | August 28, 2007 10:37 AM

Over at Free Republic, they claim to have documented knowledge of two more Republican senators who are closet gays.

The Freepers know the Dems have the same knowledge and plan to leak it to the media at the most advantageous time. (The Freepers even name names but I would never do the same.. that would be GOSSIP :-)

Hint: Karl Rove is gone, guys. And "wedge issues" are just so 2004. Maybe it's time for Republicans to come out (oops, wrong term!) in favor of civil unions and equal rights for all law-abiding citizens. Then they'd take this potent "hypocrisy" weapon away from their enemies.

Posted by The Yell | August 28, 2007 11:30 AM

TODAY had about 12 mins on how the Conservatives are in Crisis and how the Right Wing might not survive this "hypocrisy".

I'd say there's as much sense in claiming a criminal homosexual "discredits" the homosexual rights movement.

Posted by Ken Oglesby | August 28, 2007 11:41 AM

Dumb,dumb,dumb.
And did I mention dumb?
Geez,what kind of idiots are we sending to Washington and WHEN are we going to realize it?
DUMB!

Posted by david | August 28, 2007 12:30 PM

http://www.captainsquartersblog.com/mt/archives/008309.php

"However, the obloquy and castigation seems to only come from Rogers and his ilk. I couldn't care less whether Craig is attracted to men or women; it's really none of my business, and none of Rogers' either. As long as he's not importuning minors, then it makes no difference to anyone except Craig and his family, and that's f the allegations have any basis in fact. The only time it becomes a public issue is if Craig insisted on an official government status of a same-gender relationship, which as a policy issue should be decided by the people."

See, no problem.

Posted by Carol Herman | August 28, 2007 12:43 PM

If this thread's not dead, yet, I was just at InstaPundit, where Glenn Reynolds links to the GAY PATRIOT.

AH, seems gays are FURIOUS will Larry Craig. It was there that I read the "recommendation" that he resign!

IN other words?

Not all gay behaviors are sanctions by gays!

The toilet brigade doesn't have a large enough faction to keep Larry Craig in office.

And, Romney already forced his resignation. So, he's without a campaigning anchor, now. For 2008.

As the GAY PATRIOT says: What he did was stupid. He had to weigh his position in congress; with the full knowledge that bathroom-sex isn't going to be tolerated. And, Craig "blew it." (Where "blowing it" has nothing to do with a sexual connotation.)

Posted by Carol Herman | August 28, 2007 12:54 PM

Another observation from Glenn Reynold's InstaPundit. The men's rooms at the Minneapolis/St.Paul airport were under observation; because the homosexuals, seeking sex in the toilets, had gotten out of hand.

In other words? The police received complaints, against which they then set out a "decoy," to stop this business "of foot tapping for sex" occurring in the men's room stalls.

The cop was there on purpose, because the complaints were heard. Larry Craig was an idiot to think he could do this by traveling into these toilets ... since the rumors of "action" worked to get him there. BUT LOTS OF COMPLAINTS HAPPENED. And, the police had to stop this "action" for the comfort and convenience of MOST travelers. What man wants to walk in on this stuff?

What surprised me? Again, when Glenn Reynolds linked to the GAY PATRIOT. Republican gays are not stupid. They're not looking to insult people. And, most men detest mens' rooms turned into "stall parlors" for creeps.

Posted by Kimberly | August 28, 2007 3:58 PM

Another one for the GIPpers (Grand Indictment Party)!!

Posted by Gars Luber | August 28, 2007 4:22 PM

If all the closet queens were expelled from the GOP, there wouldn't be enough remaining politicians to run a ghost town.

Posted by Whiskey Charlie | August 28, 2007 7:35 PM

Yikes!

I suppose 'drilling' a 'glory hole' would have really given his intentions away?

Posted by the friendly grizzly | August 28, 2007 9:22 PM

grizz apparently it is well known by other gay men.

I guess I missed that one in the handout. Then again, I never even got the toaster oven.

Posted by the friendly grizzly | August 28, 2007 9:25 PM

grizz apparently it is well known by other gay men.

I guess I missed that one in the handout. Then again, I never even got the toaster oven.

Posted by old conservative | August 29, 2007 3:28 AM

Get this fgt and all fgts out of our party.

Posted by Spartacus | August 29, 2007 5:22 AM

He voted for shamnesty. He supports DL's and in-state tuition for illegals.

Screw him, He was going to face heat anyway, so I think he will be out, and whoever wins the GOP primary will win the general election. If he were to run again in 2008, a bunch of people would not have bothered to vote for him.

Posted by A Brit | August 30, 2007 3:11 AM

As a Brit I find this story hilarious.

Bush is on his knees, figuratively, talking to a mystical person in the sky and his colleagues are running around finding places to get on their knees for other reasons.

The stench of hypocrisy in the Bush administration can be smelt over here in Europe.

Don't do as I do, do as I say - an old adage that fairly sums up Bush and his hateful posse of neo-fascist hate mongers.

Just one awkward question remains for us over here - how were you lot so thick that you gave this drunk idiot another chance to screw up America and the World?

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