For the most part, I have watched the Tom DeLay debacle unfold with a more than a trace of bemusement. DeLay is not the first politico to have ethical troubles and won't be the last. What I find troubling is the acceptance of the GOP Conference about the appearence of impropriety.
In the movie, The American President, an interest group leader played by John Mahoney noted the "Politics is perception." In this case, whether DeLay did anything wrong is beside the point. There is a public perception that he did something wrong and that is enough for him to step down a Majority Leader. I am not suggesting he resign his House seat all together, merely step aside from his leadership post.
Based on what I have seen in the press, DeLay's action show a lack of good political judgment, but so far nothing illegal. Did he go on trips paid for by special interests?--yes--but so has every other lawmaker. Did he have the bad judgment and sense to maintain a professional relationship with Jack Abramoff when it appeared that Abramoff had crossed more than one line in relation to ethics with clients and lobbying rules? Sure, but loyalty is scarce in this town and I still don't see where DeLay did anything wrong.
Leaders as powerful as DeLay, and a blatantly partisan, are sure to attract some powerful enemies. DeLay has his share, along with a media bent on gotcha journalism loving the chase to bring down a senior lawmaker. the perception now is that DeLay is bringing down the party and should step aside now before he damages further the party.
On a separate note, 10 years in the majority is going to the GOP's head. Time to face up to some issues and get busy making sure that the Democrats cannot attach on ethics--Politics is perception and no party can stand the perception of being corrupt--whether it is true or not.
