Update (16:50 EDT): Clay Waters of MRC's TimesWatch informs me the 3rd paragraph reference in a NYT article to Spitzer's Democratic Party affiliation has been removed. Only an oblique reference to his party remains in the 15th paragraph, notes Waters.
It's the first major political sex scandal of 2008 (aside from Detroit's Kwame Kilpatrick) and it involves a Democrat. So of course the Associated Press failed to note Gov. Eliot Spitzer's (D-NY) party affiliation. Via the LATimes.com Web site, published at 2:28 p.m. EDT:
The New York Times is reporting that Gov. Eliot Spitzer has told senior advisers that he had been involved in a prostitution ring.
On its Web site, the newspaper cites an anonymous administration official as the source and says Spitzer was meeting with his top aides.
Spitzer officials wouldn't immediately comment on the story to The Associated Press. An announcement was scheduled for 2:15 p.m. at his Manhattan office.
The New York Times has more here, and that paper notes Spitzer's party affiliation in the third graf:
Mr. Spitzer, a first term Democrat who pledged to bring ethics reform an end the often seamy ways of Albany, is married with three children.
Update (14:54 EDT): A review of the Fox News, MSNBC, and CNN Web sites shows only Fox noting Spitzer's Democratic party affiliation in teaser headline content appearing on the front page. MSNBC.com and CNN.com also give the Spitzer story prominent play on their Web pages, but his party affiliation is not listed on the front page itself. Screencaps to follow.
—Ken Shepherd is Managing Editor of NewsBusters
Editor at Large
Comments Policy
This should....
March 10, 2008 - 13:55 ET by Prester John....keep Greta, Nancy et al and all their attorney guests busy for weeks.
No wait. That is only if Spitzer had been a Republican. This will blow over in a few days since he is a Dem and this is a private matter between he and his family.
No party affiliation
March 10, 2008 - 14:37 ET by dcbatlleThe first thing I looked for was his party affiliation. Of course, given he is a Democrat, I knew full well I wasn't going to find it. Like clockwork!
I first looked at the NYT
March 10, 2008 - 14:57 ET by Hero SquadI first looked at the NYT story linked by Drudge. In that story, the first mention of political party affiliation doesn't come until the 15th paragraph (of a 19 paragraph story).
Interesting how he calls it a "private matter" for his family to deal with, as if it's supposed to make everyone else go away.
That's about as soft a reference as you can make to a political party in a sex scandal story.
*****
"People only insist that a debate stop when they are afraid of what might be learned if it continues." - George Will
Hero, the earlier story at
March 10, 2008 - 15:01 ET by bassndudeHero, the earlier story at the NYT listed it in the 3rd paragraph. That he was a first term governer. Well, least we know where he made his money.
Save a SeAL, club a liberal!!
clinton-spitzer-obama
March 10, 2008 - 15:04 ET by docbSpitzer is a clinton backer and her partner in the drivers licsense scheme... as self rightous as she is... and above the law. Same Same
How dare she say he must pass a security threshold...she has not passed one...This is a racial slur about his middle name.
About her experience:
http://www.youtube.c...
This in about a dream ticket:
March 10, 2008
Read More: Barack Obama
Obama: 'If I am not ready, how is it that you think I should be such a great vice president?'
My colleague Carrie Budoff Brown e-mails from Columbus, Miss., with Obama's response to the Clintons' flotation of the notion that he could be her veep: scorn.
COLUMBUS, Miss -- Sen. Barack Obama delivered an animated rebuke today of suggestions from the Clintons in recent days that he could run as her vice president.
“Now first of all with all due respect, with all due respect," he said here during a town hall meeting. "I won twice as many states as Sen. Clinton. I won more of the popular vote than Sen. Clinton. I have more delegates than Sen. Clinton. So I don’t’ know how someone in second place can offer the vice presidency to someone in first place. If I was in second place I could understand but I am in first place right now.
He referenced comments from Bill Clinton in 1992 that his “most important criteria” for vice president was that person must be ready to be commander in chief.
“They have been spending the last two or three weeks” arguing that he is not ready to be commander in chief, Obama said.
“I don’t understand. If I am not ready, how is it that you think I should be such a great vice president?” Obama asked the crowd, which gave him a standing ovation during his defense. “I don’t understand.”
“You can’t say he is not ready on day one, then you want him to be your vice president,” Obama continued. “I just want everybody to absolutely clear: I am not running for vice president. I am running to be president of the United States of America.”
Obama was responding to comments from Clinton spokesman Howard Wolfson on a conference call earlier today, in which he suggested that Obama could pass the "threshold" and become commander in chief material this summer.
"Senator Clinton will not choose any candidate who has not at the time of choosing passed the national security threshold. But we have a long way to go until Denver, and it's not something she's prepared to rule out at this point," he said.
»→ Obama/Spitzer Rout
March 10, 2008 - 15:09 ET by Cool ArrowHow about just Obama/ Spitzer?
Headline could be:
OBAMA/SPITZER ROUT
♣ a seal
For some reason (which I think is great)
March 10, 2008 - 18:40 ET by ahusserThe supermarket tabloids are sticking it to Obama. Their headlines are some of the not mentioned scandals he is involved in. It was in this week's Enquirer under "Obama's Secrets". The Globe was also tearing him a new one. I don't know why. and I realize these newspapers are not exactly paragons of intellectual news but I saw the said headlines while awaiting in the grocery checkout line. I would like to give you a link but they already are on the Spitzer story.
ahusser
March 10, 2008 - 20:09 ET by BarkerThis may have something to do with it. (warning: explicit language)
MSNBC hasnt meantioned it once.
March 10, 2008 - 15:10 ET by dronetekI've been watching MSNBC, just to see how long it takes for them to report his party. I havent heard a single reference to his party, not even on their list of facts about the governor. They dedicated a lot of time talking about how if this were europe, it would be no big deal.
not so sure about this - if
March 10, 2008 - 13:58 ET by TruthMongernot so sure about this - if it's just prostitution that's not really a big deal, but if there was any shoe-touching, then that would definitely be a hugely major humongous scandal
"...Gov. Eliot Spitzer has
March 10, 2008 - 14:08 ET by Chris Norman"...Gov. Eliot Spitzer has told senior advisers that he had been involved in a prostitution ring."
Is this new? Like, we already knew he was involved with the Democrats.
truth... ha ha. Funny
March 10, 2008 - 14:11 ET by Jack Bauertruth... ha ha. Funny dude.
You touched me in a special way. (But totally innocent, I hasten to add)
Hurts AG Andrew's goals
March 10, 2008 - 14:04 ET by Mica the MagnificentDarn. Just when Andrew Cuomo thought being an aggressive, anti-wall street prosecutor guaranteed his annointment to governor in liberal New York.
And they just announced Elliot is resigning, and was indicted.
No kidding, Mica
March 10, 2008 - 14:12 ET by YahooWatcherI always thought the plan was: Hillary gets the nomination, resigns from the Senate, Spitzer appoints Cuomo to the Senate, then some new windbag takes the AG job here in NY.
It was, YahooWatcher
March 10, 2008 - 14:20 ET by Mica the MagnificentThat probably was the plan.
But it ain't working out for the Hillary or the Elliot.
Does this mean Andrew will be in charge of prosecuting the Spitzster?
Fantastic.
Better yet -
March 10, 2008 - 14:41 ET by YahooWatcherI hear this is fedreal case which means a GWB appointee that took the job of a prosecutor fired by Alberto Gonzalez will be the point man.
Chuck Schumer must be ready to explode.
I am sure Andrew will knock
March 10, 2008 - 18:52 ET by ahusserI am sure Andrew will knock the charge down to a lesser included offense of conducting business without a license.
Pray for me.
March 10, 2008 - 14:11 ET by YahooWatcherI live in Albany, NY. I said it in 2000 when Hillary won 70%-30% over Rick Lazio, again by a wider margin over some no-name in 2006, and then Spitzer comes along two years ago and wins something like 65%-35%.
UP TO 70% OF NEW YORK CITIZENS ARE MORONS !!!
Just to add: Right now on Yahoo, this is the second top news story. Five US Troops getting killed in Iraq today is holding on to the top spot.
Sheldon Richman
March 10, 2008 - 14:16 ET by sarcasmoWrote something about voters you might enjoy. At least, I liked it, but I'll admit the ugly truth...I like just about anything if it positively references Leonard Read's classic "I, Pencil" essay.
JMR
A corruption-story the TV media will-not cover.
Thanks for the links
March 10, 2008 - 14:24 ET by YahooWatcher.
Last line of Sheldons
March 10, 2008 - 15:43 ET by LastlibertarianLast line of Sheldons arcticle<i> I will continue to shudder at "get out the vote" campaigns.</i>
Same here;
I've always said about the get out the vote campain; "Why would I want their uninformed opinion diluting my informed vote?"
Ken....Turn on the Chat
March 10, 2008 - 14:12 ET by BlondeHypocricy is the biggest sin in politics....wow, I'm glad I ducked out of work early today.
Too funny.
David Gregory, do you know which damn network you lie for? ~ Uncle Jimbo, @Blackfive
My Headline:
March 10, 2008 - 14:17 ET by BarkerSpitzer Goes Out with a Bang
»→ My Headline
March 10, 2008 - 14:23 ET by Cool ArrowTOUGH PILL - SPITZER SWALLOWS
Was it Lust or Love?
♣ a seal
I thought the governer in
March 10, 2008 - 14:27 ET by bassndudeI thought the governer in NY got paid pretty well. Dident know they had to turn tricks on the side to make the ends meat.
Save a SeAL, club a liberal!!
Hope he's a lousy lover
March 10, 2008 - 14:39 ET by dboApparently this prostitution ring would charge up to $5500 an hour. I hope for NY taxpayer's sake he only lasted 3 minutes.
Ah, about the same as the
March 10, 2008 - 14:57 ET by bassndudeAh, about the same as the tax rate there.
Save a SeAL, club a liberal!!
Interesting
March 10, 2008 - 14:17 ET by Prester JohnSpitzer didn't say anything about resigning.
Has he been indicted?
March 10, 2008 - 14:18 ET by ricklailI just heard his 7 second press conference. He didn't resign or take any responsiblity for it.
If you ain't the lead dog, the scenery never changes.-Lewis Grizzard
Yes rick, he has been
March 10, 2008 - 14:22 ET by Jack BauerYes rick, he has been indicted.
Not sure of the allegations yet as press only a copy of it a few minutes ago,
Jack
March 10, 2008 - 14:33 ET by ricklailDo you think his poker buddy Bill Clinton will be implemented in any of this? Or is that too good to be true?
If you ain't the lead dog, the scenery never changes.-Lewis Grizzard
rick, if Spitzer was "client # 9," you have to figure that Bill
March 10, 2008 - 15:18 ET by R D Helm...was client # 1. :-^)
Theme for Election '08: I want my mommy!
Spitzer has been protected
March 10, 2008 - 14:20 ET by nythatesusaSpitzer has been protected by the Manhattan Left, which is at least as powerful as the Religious Right. He used the State Police to follow a political opponent, and his media allies in NYC let the story die.
MSNBC
March 10, 2008 - 14:20 ET by capavI just watched Contessa Brewer list a number of governors who had problems in the past. As she named them, she made sure she said republican governor... The democratic governors only had their names. Is it too obvious???
Contessa?
March 10, 2008 - 14:23 ET by BlondeWhat the h###? Who on earth would give their kid a name like that?
Sounds like the family poodle to me.
David Gregory, do you know which damn network you lie for? ~ Uncle Jimbo, @Blackfive
Ummm.....
March 10, 2008 - 15:36 ET by R68AndrewWhat do you expect??? This is how the MSNBC (Must Save Nobody But Clinton) Network thinks about Republicans. These M-Fers at MSLSD want a Democrat elected in 2008.
does anyone have a good
March 10, 2008 - 14:22 ET by jwm45does anyone have a good email address to the AP to complain about this obvious game of 'guess the party affiliation' only when it involves a democrat? It's truly unbelievable - this is a huge story
Too Funny
March 10, 2008 - 14:23 ET by dboNot only is the AP going to have to revise their story to put (D-NY) after his name but the'ye going to have to put "Former Disgraced" in front of his name.
Wow, no leak since Feb. 7th
March 10, 2008 - 14:25 ET by sarcasmoBut there's been an indictment (now changed to a "complaint," which is lower on the legal totem pole) since that day, according to the idiot box (Fox).
JMR
A corruption-story the TV media will-not cover.
Of course, you have to feel
March 10, 2008 - 14:28 ET by Jack BauerOf course, you have to feel sorry for his wife and, especially, his three children.
That's got to be horrible for them. I always hate that when a politico goes wrong.
Do feel bad for the family,
March 10, 2008 - 14:33 ET by balboaDo feel bad for the family, but what a doofus Spitzer is for getting involved in something like this, thereby getting his family involved when the story broke.
Derrrrrrrr.
He's got a wife, 3 kids, and...
March 10, 2008 - 14:39 ET by Prester John...is the governor of the 3d most populous state in the union.
When, pray tell, did he find time to, uh, you know?
He's got one of those great
March 10, 2008 - 15:30 ET by balboaHe's got one of those great personal organizers. REALLY helpful.
I'm beginning to think that
March 10, 2008 - 15:44 ET by Chris NormanI'm beginning to think that whatever gene compels people to become politicians, also may compel them to become involved in sex scandals. The I-must-run-and-won't-be-caught gene.
What's that line about
March 10, 2008 - 15:47 ET by balboaWhat's that line about power and corruption?
Absolutely. :)
March 10, 2008 - 16:53 ET by Chris NormanAbsolutely. :)
Prester... "He's got a
March 10, 2008 - 17:03 ET by Clear thinkerPrester...
"He's got a wife, 3 kids, and is the governor of the 3d most populous state in the union."
Hey give the guy a break will ya. When he ran for Governor he did promise he would bring jobs to NY, he just failed to mention in what industry they would be.
"Abstain from McCain"
Leaving that industry alone, while politically unpalatable...
March 10, 2008 - 17:09 ET by sarcasmoWould have indeed brought jobs and taxes to NY. But again, even though this is apparently what's bringing him down, I have many more issues with his official ethical lapses. Like how Spitzer (D. NY) apparently uses state employees for political purposes.
JMR
A corruption-story the TV media will-not cover.
Come on Jack. Do you really
March 10, 2008 - 15:17 ET by bassndudeCome on Jack. Do you really belive his wife knew nothing about this?? I think she knew plenty.
Save a SeAL, club a liberal!!
»→ Somebody's daughter
March 10, 2008 - 15:22 ET by Cool ArrowWhat does this say about Spitzer's respect for his own three daughters?
♣ a seal
Cool... "What does this
March 10, 2008 - 17:05 ET by Clear thinkerCool...
"What does this say about Spitzer's respect for his own three daughters?"
Maybe, just maybe.... nah, never mind.
"Abstain from McCain"
I have no idea bass...
March 10, 2008 - 15:24 ET by Jack BauerI have no idea bass...
I'll just give the benefit of the doubt for the kids sake.
Not for me to judge on that point. The secrets of any marriage and all that.
Mr Spitzer is enough for me. A greatly disliked, and remarkably ugly person, in looks and personality by the sound of it.
She's a looker, by the way. Fox showed a pic.
MSNBC has the story as
March 10, 2008 - 14:28 ET by Hunter12MSNBC has the story as breaking news from the AP. No party affiliation mentioned throughout. They had "Republican" in the first sentence of just about every story they ran on Mark Foley.
"An appeaser is one who feeds a crocodile, hoping it will eat him last." - Sir Winston Churchill
Hmmm...
March 10, 2008 - 14:33 ET by stalbanby golly, see today's Newsbusters topic on why we conservatives distrust the media. Just can't imagine for the life of me why! (sarc off)
While the LATimes link to
March 10, 2008 - 14:34 ET by stratmanWhile the LATimes link to the AP story Ken provided does NOT identify Spitzer as a Democrat, nor even use "Democrat" or any derivative of "Democrat" in its story, the AP DOES identify someone as Republican:
AP must stand for Associated Pathologicals.
RRAM Tough!
The AP article (same link
March 10, 2008 - 15:59 ET by stratmanThe AP article (same link as above) has now been amended with new exposition and uses for the first time the Democrat appellation in the 10th paragraph followed by juxtapositionally identifying Spizter specifically as a Democrat in the 11th paragraph:
I guess the AP needed a couple more hours to figure out what political party Spitzer was a member of and/or how to work that data in well below the fold so that only the most tenacious of readers would be informed what we at NB accept as the obvious.
RRAM Tough!
But there is a party reference in the AP article!
March 10, 2008 - 14:36 ET by Paul HansonIt clearly states that Spitzer's aides tried "...to smear Spitzer's main Republican nemesis" and "... to embarrass Senate Republican leader..."
The important thing in the Age of Google is to get the appropriate Party reference associated with prostitution.
the CNN article...
March 10, 2008 - 15:47 ET by dronetekThe CNN article mentions the "Republican Govenors Association" in the 4th paragraph and the fact Spitzer is a democrat in the second to last sentence.
Poor guy is getting dinged
March 10, 2008 - 14:37 ET by Hunter12Poor guy is getting dinged for doing research. Seven diamonds = $5,500 per hour. Whew!
"An appeaser is one who feeds a crocodile, hoping it will eat him last." - Sir Winston Churchill
»→ Hunter
March 10, 2008 - 14:39 ET by Cool ArrowMoney like that could have helped that bus driver pay his $3900 mortgage payment.
♣ a seal
Cool Arrow ---
March 10, 2008 - 15:22 ET by YahooWatcherI still think Ralph Cramdon will be the lead story on NBC Nightly News tonight. Check my math, will ya:
I hear a mortgage shouldn't be more than 30% of your income. If that's the case and Ralph had a $3900/month mortgage, he must have been pulling in $13K/month, or an annual salary of $156K. I need to look into this bus driving gig.
»→ Yahoo
March 10, 2008 - 15:27 ET by Cool ArrowHe's gotta be bringin' down almost as much as Michelle Obama.
Probably still trying to pay off those Bus Driving College loans.
♣ a seal
Calm down, everybody. Eliot just apologized
March 10, 2008 - 14:44 ET by YahooWatcherto his friends and family. That's good enough for the MSM when a Dem is involved.
Go about your business, nothing to see here.
»→ Goose and Gander
March 10, 2008 - 14:47 ET by Cool ArrowI say if the prostitute goes down, Spitzer should too.
Did I say that right?
♣ a seal
And . . .
March 10, 2008 - 14:49 ET by Mica the Magnificent. . . and as Fox News just pointed out, Spitzer called this a 'private matter' in his press conference.
In other words, it's just about sex - it doesn't matter.
Move along.
This Was TOO Obvious
March 10, 2008 - 14:46 ET by KalihiwaiBeachI was reading the article at Yahoo news and was appalled at no mention of his party affiliation that I came directly here to advise. Good to see you guys are on it!!
Aloha
In the AP item...
March 10, 2008 - 14:46 ET by Prester John...just posted on Yahoo, the word "Democrat" does not appear a single time. "Republican" appears twice.
http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20080310/ap_on_re_us/spitzer_prostitution
I'll go you one better -
March 10, 2008 - 14:48 ET by YahooWatcherThis Yahoo story doesn't even mention Spitzer:
http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20080307/ap_on_re_us/diamond_prostitutes
UN-F-ING-BELIEVABLE !!!!!!!!
March 10, 2008 - 15:03 ET by MrShyPrester, and others, OMG.... it really is UN-F-ING BELIEVABLE!!
You're right, they ACTUALLY slide the word "Republican" TWICE into an articale about a major scandal of a Democrat, that.... LEAVES OUT THE WORD "DEMOCRAT" !!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I'm going to explode, seriously.
Ken, Noel, Brent, Matt & Co..... WHAT CAN WE DO TO EXPOSE THIS?!?!? The f-ing AP. One of only two primary news-feed sources, and they are blantantly covering for a political party!! AND, going a heinous step further, mentioning "Republican" (regardless of HOW, just putting them into the article slimes them) in the article to subliminally throw THEM into this scandal !!!!!
Sorry for all the caps and "F's", but this has reached the tipping point for me.
* * * SOCKS THE CAT '08 * * *
For REAL Change
Mr. Shy....You need to march on DC
March 10, 2008 - 15:11 ET by JayTeeSee Last Weekend HERE on Times Square
See Next Weekend, March 15th in DC
You'll feel better and won't be yelling at the TV - OR - Democrats, because you'll be hoarse from the weekend.
Wow JayTee, Impressive
March 10, 2008 - 15:16 ET by LeonWow JayTee,
Impressive demonstration in Times Square.
It's amazing in a city of nearly 10 million, they were able to get 11 protestors! Nice!
I'm glad those 11 people took the time to protest the hygenically challenged hippie freaks! haha.
Man what a joke these people are.
MrShy, hurry up. You could be the 12th eagle! Yeah!
PS those soaring eagles womens don't look to the be thong sporting type so you might want to leave the merchandise at home.
It's amazing in a city of
March 10, 2008 - 15:27 ET by MrShyIt's amazing in a city of nearly 10 million, they were able to get 11 protestors! Nice!
Yup, that's about how many non- BDS-drugged, lock-step, fed-intreveniously-by-NYTimes, et al, liberals live in this "city of nearly 10 million".... it's, ummmm...... New York City.
Leon, you really are a weenie. I mean that in an oddly endearing way, because you ARE still very funny. Akin to my fondness for Jon Stewart. Sharp-witted, funny as heck, but also a moron -- who's like 99.9999999 % (would that number of 9's leave 12 eagles? I think so) of all humans in this "city of nearly 10 million".
* * * SOCKS THE CAT '08 * * *
For REAL Change
Sorry to disappoint you Leon...maybe this will Impress you
March 10, 2008 - 16:12 ET by JayTee30,000-strong crowd of pro-troop supporters at the March on the Pentagon 2006, 3/17, with 15,000 flags collected from people who could not attend.
The one Above was in response to 10,000 anti-war demonstrators
The times Square Re-sponse was for ONE Bomber.
Spitzer says
March 10, 2008 - 14:47 ET by DelsaHe says, "It's a private matter"?
We heard that before. "Only Sex"
F the democrats. Thank God he was not tapping his foot under a bathroom stall!!!!!
F the democrats. Easy,
March 10, 2008 - 14:52 ET by balboaF the democrats.
Easy, tiger.
At least he didn't say he plead guilty to make the whole thing go away...
Balboa
March 10, 2008 - 15:05 ET by DelsaYou make me laugh.
I just get so angry at the double standard. He gets to go home and smooth it over with his wife. He has probably given her some really nice "jewish guilt" gifts over the years and with that in mind she won't throw him out. She'll make him pay EVERYDAY of his life.
The foot tapping fool is rediculous as well.
He's screwed. I just can't
March 10, 2008 - 15:11 ET by balboaHe's screwed. I just can't believe what an idiot he is. As Gawker pointed out, "As AG, Spitzer had prosecuted prostitution rings. He knows, especially
with the classy ones, that the client lists are well-maintained, and
they get out, eventually."
What an idiot.
Not only that
March 10, 2008 - 15:21 ET by sarcasmoFor the $4300 he paid this girl plus a room at the Mayflower, Spitzer could have easily flown to either Nevada or one of the various foreign countries where prostitution's perfectly legal. And pays taxes...
JMR
A corruption-story the TV media will-not cover.
»→ Point to sarc
March 10, 2008 - 15:31 ET by Cool ArrowShould tax evasion somehow be included. The Capone prosecution?
Good point sarc.
♣ a seal
Well, the reason I say that
March 10, 2008 - 15:39 ET by sarcasmoIs that I'm guessing the feds may be going after that angle in this case, although maybe not from Spitzer himself. And I think if the oldest profession were legal & taxed in more places, we'd be better off. The truth is, I have other ethical problems with the guy that are far more serious (well, to me -- I understand that others may feel differently) than him diddling some dumb prostitute in a nice hotel. Frankly, I'd prefer government resources be concentrated on that stuff.
JMR
A corruption-story the TV media will-not cover.
Mann Act Violation
March 10, 2008 - 15:33 ET by Hunter12Guess he couldn't find any good local girls. By having her travel from NYC to DC, he violated the Mann Act. Be interesting if that gets swept under the rug as well.
"SEC. 3. That any person who shall knowingly persuade, induce, entice, or coerce, or cause to be persuaded, induced, enticed, or coerced, or aid or assist in persuading, inducing, enticing or coercing any woman or girl to go from one place to another in interstate or foreign commerce, or in any Territory or the District of Columbia, for the purpose of prostitution or debauchery, or for any other immoral purpose, or with the intent and purpose on the part of such person that such woman or girl shall engage in the practice of prostitution or debauchery, or any other immoral practice, whether with or without her consent, and who shall thereby knowingly cause or aid or assist in causing such woman or girl to go and be carried or transported as a passenger upon the line or route of any common carrier or carriers in interstate or foreign commerce, or any Territory or the District of Columbia, shall be deemed guilty of a felony and on conviction thereof shall be punished by a fine of not more than five thousand dollars, or by imprisonment for a term not exceeding five years, or by both fine and imprisonment, in the discretion of the court."
"An appeaser is one who feeds a crocodile, hoping it will eat him last." - Sir Winston Churchill
Before she agreed to appear
March 10, 2008 - 15:13 ET by nythatesusaBefore she agreed to appear at the press conference, Mrs. Spitzer probably asked, "But you're still going to be rich and powerful, aren't you Eliot?".....(pause for response)...."Oh, OK, I'll be there!"
I think it's not fair
March 10, 2008 - 15:24 ET by sarcasmoTo go after the spouse in this way. He's the one that did it, after all, and there are kids involved, so even if I think he's a scumbag (and I did even before this incident, so I still do) I'd truly hope his marriage can somehow survive this for their sakes...
JMR
A corruption-story the TV media will-not cover.
If you think it's admirable
March 10, 2008 - 16:28 ET by nythatesusaIf you think it's admirable to try to cover for someone who is engaged in this kind of behavior while holding this office, I think you're dead wrong. Spitzer's kids, however, are definitely out of bounds.
I could never believe that someone loved me if they agreed to be involved in a propaganda piece like the one that was staged today. This goes for David Vitter's wife as well.
Hillary Clinton is the prime example of a wife who has enabled incredibly abusive behavior towards women with her "see no evil" attitude. On the other hand, Rudolph Giuliani's wife reacted to his behavior with genuine outrage, not political calculation.
I could care less if this marriage is "saved". If any of you have spouses who would have reacted like Mrs. Spitzer has(instead of trying neuter you), I'm afraid you are involved in a sham.
I don't think she's covering for him
March 10, 2008 - 16:37 ET by sarcasmoBy standing there, but maybe you're right and she's planning to neuter him later, when he least expects it!! Any cheating is certainly wrong even beyond the risk that she'll neuter you. I just have bigger problems with politicians like this guy (or Rudy) than their sex habits. But for humor, this stuff can't be beat! :) If I'm correct, the comedy elves have been working overtime on this material for most of the day... I can't wait.
JMR
A corruption-story the TV media will-not cover.
That's nice...
March 10, 2008 - 15:28 ET by balboaThat's nice...
Per Mario Cuomo this is....
March 10, 2008 - 14:52 ET by Prester John...."an excruciating personal tragedy for the Governor, his family and the rest of our society to whom he has meant so much."
http://www.wnbc.com/news/15555281/detail.html
Tragedy???? For the family, sure. But for Spitzer himself and society??
Lord have mercy.
At least now we know that
March 10, 2008 - 14:56 ET by NL207At least now we know that somebody besides the taxpayers of New York are getting F***ed by this weasel.
Where did they find that relic?
March 10, 2008 - 14:59 ET by YahooWatcherMario Cuomo. NY will never climb out of the tax toilet that Mario put us into. Speaking of relics, then I hear the other day Hugh Carey, Cuomo predecessor, endorsed Obama:
http://www.wgrz.com/news/news_article.aspx?storyid=55954
Got to love this story - "fellow NYer Hillary Clinton." Try Arkansas reject.
Revised AP story
March 10, 2008 - 14:50 ET by BarkerAP- Not so Republican New York Governor Eliot Spitzer is involved in a prostitution ring. Sources say at least two of the prostitutes are registered Republicans.........
I don't think the "D" behind his name is going to help him much.
March 10, 2008 - 14:55 ET by R D HelmI think "Client # 9" is in seriously deep doo-doo.
Bet Bill & Hill throw him under the bus before the end of the day.
Theme for Election '08: I want my mommy!
Client
March 10, 2008 - 14:59 ET by Mica the Magnificentnumber 9 . .number 9 . . number 9 . .- Beatles White Album
»→ Number 9
March 10, 2008 - 15:02 ET by Cool ArrowTurn me on dead man.
♣ a seal
Oh, an untimely death! I
March 10, 2008 - 15:05 ET by Hero SquadOh, an untimely death!
I know, wrong song. But it still fits.
*****
"People only insist that a debate stop when they are afraid of what might be learned if it continues." - George Will
You say you wanna a
March 10, 2008 - 15:07 ET by Jack BauerYou say you wanna a prostitution, weeeel, you know... we all wanna screw the world.
Love Potion?. #9
March 10, 2008 - 19:15 ET by ahusserLove Potion? #9. she said
Oops, I may have spoken too soon.
March 10, 2008 - 15:08 ET by R D HelmDrudge is now saying Spitzer got nailled in a federal wiretap.
You all know what that means.
Theme for Election '08: I want my mommy!
Who is client # 1? Thats
March 10, 2008 - 15:23 ET by bassndudeWho is client # 1? Thats what I want to know.
Save a SeAL, club a liberal!!
bass,
March 10, 2008 - 15:31 ET by R D HelmWell, given who his circle of freinds is, my guess would be some guy with the initials of BJ.
Theme for Election '08: I want my mommy!
Good job it wasn't client
March 10, 2008 - 15:34 ET by Jack BauerGood job it wasn't client #Juan...
Else McCain may have been in trouble too.
»→ Good Juan, Jack
March 10, 2008 - 15:38 ET by Cool ArrowAnd Juan is such a lonely number.
Makes me Juander. It's just Juanderful. A Juannabee
♣ a seal
Clean up New York - - have more Democrats Resign
March 10, 2008 - 14:59 ET by JayTeeSpitzer's final Clean up of NY State, was his Resignation. . . . What a Guy.
Lets, shall we....
March 10, 2008 - 15:02 ET by JeffWeimerTurn on the way-back machine....to August 28, 2007. CNN headline....
http://www.cnn.com/2...
read through and wait all the way to the.....SECOND paragraph.
Yep, there it is..."Idaho Republican"
I love this game.
Not.
It was client Niner, MAYFLOWER HOTEL again
March 10, 2008 - 15:03 ET by Jack BauerYou just cannot make this up. It's like an episode of the Time Tunnel...
Spitzer did the dirty at the infamous Mayflower Hotel in D.C.
Maybe that added to the thrill up his leg.
But it could have been worse, at least the Feds didn't tag him as Client 69.
Infamous?
March 10, 2008 - 15:10 ET by sarcasmoIt's a very nice hotel. OTOH, they did let me stay there once!
JMR
A corruption-story the TV media will-not cover.
Sydney Biddle Barrows aka the Mayflower Madam
March 10, 2008 - 15:19 ET by Jack BauerSydney Biddle Barrows aka the Mayflower Madam.
Prosecuted in New York for her infamous prostitution ring to the rich, famous and powerful.
Infamous was an inept choice of words for the hotel, which was not used by her "ladies."
But I thought the irony in the name was there!
Sydney Biddle Barrows was
March 10, 2008 - 16:09 ET by stratmanSydney Biddle Barrows was called "The Mayflower Madam" because her ancestors arrived in the "new country" on the Mayflower.
I guess Pilgrim Prostitute didn't have the same pizzaz.
RRAM Tough!
Can we expect a
March 10, 2008 - 15:04 ET by Hero SquadCan we expect a "Spitzer Swallows His Pride"-type headline in tomorrow's New York Post?
After all, these are the folks that gave us "Ike 'beats' Tina to Death" when Ike Turner died.
*****
"People only insist that a debate stop when they are afraid of what might be learned if it continues." - George Will
»→ Hero
March 10, 2008 - 15:07 ET by Cool ArrowBeat you to it.
♣ a seal
Sorry dude, no intention
March 10, 2008 - 15:09 ET by Hero SquadSorry dude, no intention of stealing your thunder.
I like the way you think.
*****
"People only insist that a debate stop when they are afraid of what might be learned if it continues." - George Will
»→ Hero
March 10, 2008 - 15:16 ET by Cool ArrowIt was low hanging fruit (So to speak).
GMTA
♣ a seal
Check this out....
March 10, 2008 - 15:24 ET by dronetekI just wanted to see if there was a clear difference in reporting when it was a republican governor, so I googled "republican governor scandal". Right away a story about George Ryan popped up. Every story I found cut to the chase pretty quick when it came to his party.
http://www.cnn.com/2...
CHICAGO, Illinois (AP) -- Former
Gov. George Ryan was indicted Wednesday on federal charges of taking
payoffs, gifts and vacations in return for government contracts and
leases while he was Illinois secretary of state.
Ryan, 69, a Republican known worldwide as a leading critic of the death
penalty, gradually became the focus of a corruption investigation that
began even before his 1998 election as governor. The scandal was a
factor in his 2001 decision not to seek a second term."
and this one also, mentioning his party right off the bat:
http://www.cnn.com/2...
"
(CNN) -- Kentucky Gov. Ernie Fletcher
was indicted Thursday on misdemeanor charges that he directed a scheme
to illegally award state jobs to political supporters, the latest twist
in a year-long probe into hiring practices in his administration.
After
the indictment, the Republican governor released a statement saying the
charges were the result of a "politically motivated, media-driven
investigation" by Democratic Attorney General Greg Stumbo
"
and, CNN on Spitzer, THE SECOND TO LAST SENTENCE in the story!
http://www.cnn.com/2...
" The first-term Democrat had been considered a rising star among his party."
I am sure....
March 10, 2008 - 15:13 ET by R68AndrewIf that had been George Pataki, they would have mentioned his affilation, because the media in this country hates Republicans.
WHAT A SHOCKER ABOUT THE
March 10, 2008 - 15:18 ET by charlietexasWHAT A SHOCKER ABOUT THE A.P. BUT WHATS REALLY A SHOCKER IS THAT A DEMOCRAT IS IN TROUBLE. THAT NEVER HAPPENS!!!!!
I WONDER WHAT THE DNC WILL DO WITH HIM???? PROBABLY APPOINT HIM TO A SECURITY BOARD, DOUBLE HIS PAY.
YA KNOW, SPIRTZER IS SO BRAVE FOR COMING OUT ON HIS OWN.
Here is what The Smoking Gun currently has on client # 9
March 10, 2008 - 15:22 ET by R D HelmPretty interesting.
Theme for Election '08: I want my mommy!
Chris Mathews
March 10, 2008 - 15:29 ET by dronetekDidnt Chris Mathews just say last week that scandals were, "not a democrat problem" or something to that affect?
dronetek,
March 10, 2008 - 15:36 ET by R D HelmI believe he did.
It is going to be really interesting to see what the dims do here. This is an election year, where things are maginified to 100 orders of magnitude. (Of course, in the dims case that means only 20 orders of magnitude) but Spitzer is no obscure dim. He's the governor of New York. Much harder to sweep this under the rug.
Theme for Election '08: I want my mommy!
He must be a Republican
March 10, 2008 - 15:25 ET by johnjanoWhen I first saw this on Drudge, I came here to see if you noticed it as well. You had. Great job, Newsbusters.
I looked at about 6 or 7 articles online and only the NYT mentioned his party (at the end of the article). Most articles mentioned a reference to Republicans (Of course they mentioned their party). So to most Americans, who just FOLLOW the mainstream media wherever it takes them, will assume that Spitzer is a Republican because the mainstream media's continuous comments of Republican Party's "Culture of Corruption".
P.S. The only way he will get in real trouble is if he filed his prostitution spending under "job-related expenses" on his taxes.
Interest will die out
March 10, 2008 - 15:29 ET by 911isbusyI lived in the S.F. Bay Area back a couple of years ago. At that time San Francisco mayor and Democrat Gavin Newsome confessed to having an affair with his campaign manager's wife. Not long before that he announced he had admitted himself to a facility for help with his alcoholism. The media touched the stories all of one day and then all was forgotten (and presumably forgiven). All they covered was Iraq. I always wondered what the S.F. media would have done to Newsome if he had been a Republican.
Those who have not swords can still die upon them.
Just checked mediamatters.org
March 10, 2008 - 15:29 ET by YahooWatcherNo mention of Spitzer whatsoever. I wonder how C-SPAN, NPR, and PBS are taking the news.
Next order of business for Eliott
March 10, 2008 - 15:39 ET by YahooWatcherSit down with your spiritual advisors. This is always a good play when a Democrat is in trouble. Bring in the priest, rabbi, Billy Graham, Rev Al or Jesse - whoever will answer your phone call.
If that doesn't work, play the Kennedy card - RE-HAB. Hooked on drugs, booze, sex? Drive your car into a barrier near the Capitol? No problem, just go to re-hab.
Yes, and it will be
March 10, 2008 - 15:46 ET by balboaYes, and it will be pathetic. But that's what people caught in a scandal do, immediately try to make reparations, or at least give the appearance of making reparations.
That Settles It
March 10, 2008 - 16:10 ET by ricklailI just saw Sharpton on Fox. He said it is a personal matter and we should leave him and his family alone. That settles it. The MSM will be backing off now.
In contrast Rep Peter King said he should resign immediately because of the ties between organized crime and prostitution. From what I can tell there are not a lot of tears being shed by republican in NY.
Also heard on Fox Business that there were cheers on the floor of the NY Stock Exchange when this thing broke.
If you ain't the lead dog, the scenery never changes.-Lewis Grizzard
NY TIMES: Wiretap Recording
March 10, 2008 - 15:50 ET by MrShyNY TIMES:
Wiretap Recording Said to Implicate Governor as Client
Gov. Eliot Spitzer has been caught on a federal wiretap arranging to
meet with a high-priced prostitute, according to a person briefed on
the inquiry.
So, now we have both "Republican" AND "wiretap" -- and "federal wiretap" -- injected into the story.... PROMINANTLY.
Wow.
* * * SOCKS THE CAT '08 * * *
For REAL Change
Gov. Spitzer: "I am a horny
March 10, 2008 - 15:50 ET by nythatesusaGov. Spitzer: "I am a horny American."
You're on quite the roll.
March 10, 2008 - 15:54 ET by balboaYou're on quite the roll. Stellar contributions.
Leon...Pehaps a Thousand or so will Impress
March 10, 2008 - 16:14 ET by JayTeeIn Response to LEON's WOW
New York Times Sept. 2007
Then there was Berkly just last month It's hard to find Conservatives in Berkly
Then there is April coming up...BIG crowd expected for Petraeus
Come on down Leon.
Leon
March 10, 2008 - 17:01 ET by MrShyOkay, sorry, here's the proper thread. Now seriously....
Leon, so what's your take on the NYTimes not placing "Democrat" anywhere in it's story (or, first doing it only on the third paragraph, and now removing it entirely, from the main story?
And also AP, not labeling (D) anywhere in it's story? Oh, AND, using the word "Republican" twice. So, a major scandal involving a Democrat Governer, and the article's score is: (R) = 2, (D) = 0 ??
* * * SOCKS THE CAT '08 * * *
For REAL Change
Add ABC WORLD News Tonight barely a (D) on the Pic
March 10, 2008 - 18:32 ET by JayTeeThey couldn't bring themselves to Say "Democratic Governor"....Katie Couric did managed to say it . . . ABC briefly showed it at the bottom of the Picture...as a (D).
We're talking interstate Trans of a Hooker, money laundering, IRS stuff, so he should get off on being a client ....Uh, let me restate. . . he should be excused from any charges associated with being a Client. . . . but that's the one charge the Public of NY will not let him forget, along with Wall Street.
Money Pool on what Day he RESIGNS ? Then a Blind man will take over as Govenor . . . if the Democrates let Spitzer resign. . . another chance for the Dems to put a Black man up Front.
CNN
March 10, 2008 - 17:03 ET by jwm45CNN ran a piece on the Situation room where they showed three other examples of scandal - Three Republican Examples! Unbelievable. Gary Condit anyone?
Tom Suozzi
March 10, 2008 - 20:59 ET by easygoerHow do you think Tom Suozzi (D-NY) feels today? He is the Nassau County County Executive. He ran in the primary against Spitzer and lost badly. Mainly because of low name recognition in upstate NY and absolutley no backing from the state party. They wanted him to get out so as not to split the party. He didn't. As a campaigner though, he acquitted himself well. He is very ambitious and I believe he will be governor or senator from NY one day.
On a personal note, I am a friend of Mr. Suozzi. I went to twelve years of Catholic school with him. He stood as best man at my sister's wedding. He was also Mayor of Glen Cove,NY, our hometown. In spite of our disagreements, he's a very nice fellow.