It would seem as though 'national hubris' is of epidemic proportions these days and the newly elected Governors are tripping over it as they enter their office.
Governor Patrick of Massachusetts has had his scandal already and learned from it with the troubled Ameriquest. Perhaps you will all recall:
Governor made call on behalf of lender (click here)
Troubled Ameriquest sought infusion of cash
By Frank Phillips, Globe Staff March 6, 2007
Governor Deval Patrick, who was criticized during the gubernatorial campaign for his involvement with a controversial subprime mortgage lender, called a top official at Citigroup, former US Treasury secretary Robert E. Rubin, two weeks ago to intercede on behalf of the owners of Ameriquest Mortgage as they sought urgent financial assistance from the global financial giant.
In a statement to the Globe, Patrick said he made the Feb. 20 call to Citigroup not in his role as governor but after a personal request to him from a top official at ACC Capital Holdings, the firm that owns Ameriquest Mortgage, which has frequently been accused of predatory lending.
Citigroup, the world's largest financial company, has a host of business interests in Massachusetts, many of which are regulated by the state. A key Citigroup subsidiary handles lucrative bond work for state agencies. In addition, Ameriquest is licensed by the state Division of Banks.
It would seem whomever is digging up the dirt is hoping newly elected Democratic governors should resign as soon as they are elected. It's the old syndrome that pervades the post elections of 2006: "Do as I say but not as I do." The Republicans have been corrupt for nearly a decade now, to their very core. But, God Forbid a Democrat should 'slip up' in a newly elected office.
I forgive you Governor Spitzer. I forgive Governor Patrick as well. Do you realize the incredible changes that have occurred in Massachusetts since Governor Patrick took office? Incredible stuff. I do believe New York is doing better as well. Both these men face difficult state legislatures, but, you'd never know it for the results they get.
Neither Governor Spitzer or Patrick are going anywhere, but, as Governor Patrick learned it pays to be 'on guard' for issues that could manifest as ethical dilemmas.
So, with that I do believe both these men were elected to serve in a capacity to correct the course of many past sins by previous administrations. They need to do their job and if they insist on giving an apology then I whole-heartedly accept it. Eliot, you simply know better. Get it straightened out and don't let it happen again. Thank you. Both of you for serving.
