Let’s face it, the Edwards Campaign has a big problem still on it’s hands and the recent attempt at middle of the road spin isn’t going to change it. For a great discussion of why this problem still looms, check out the FAQ by Dean Barnett.
However let’s recap where we are.
- John Edwards is so disconnected from his own campaign that he never bothered to vette the writings of the people they hired to represent them to the country online.
- When the pressure came on, instead of demonstrating strong decision making either standing by his people or by firing them, he has attempted to mealy mouth his way out of it by declaring his ignorance and telling us that they have in effect “promised to be good”.
- For her part, Amanda has now done an entire 180 on her true feelings and positions. In order to stay on the campaign she has betrayed her own beliefs and earlier words. Shakes is right behind.
- The gaping wound that is his voluntary association with a pair of writers with a long history of hate speech, gender bias and racism will continue till the next crisis. Of course the next time he won’t even be able to claim ignorance.
So John Edwards now looks disconnected, ill informed and indecisive and his staff will say apparently anything necessary to make him look good and try and spin things his way.
I don’t think this is the impression they really want to try and carry forward with. I have included the relevant apologies below since things have a habit of disappearing on the net.
John Edwards (or his PR flunky) first…
“The tone and the sentiment of some of Amanda Marcotte’s and Melissa McEwan’s posts personally offended me. It’s not how I talk to people, and it’s not how I expect the people who work for me to talk to people. Everyone is entitled to their opinion, but that kind of intolerant language will not be permitted from anyone on my campaign, whether it’s intended as satire, humor, or anything else. But I also believe in giving everyone a fair shake. I’ve talked to Amanda and Melissa; they have both assured me that it was never their intention to malign anyone’s faith, and I take them at their word. We’re beginning a great debate about the future of our country, and we can’t let it be hijacked. It will take discipline, focus, and courage to build the America we believe in.” – spin attempt by the weasle candidate
Amanda second…
“My writings on my personal blog Pandagon on the issue of religion are generally satirical in nature and always intended strictly as a criticism of public policies and politics. My intention is never to offend anyone for his or her personal beliefs, and I am sorry if anyone was personally offended by writings meant only as criticisms of public politics. Freedom of religion and freedom of expression are central rights, and the sum of my personal writings is a testament to this fact.” – through gritted teeth
Melissa McEwan (aka. Shakes) pulling caboose…
“Shakespeare’s Sister is my personal blog, and I certainly don’t expect Senator Edwards to agree with everything I’ve posted. We do, however, share many views – including an unwavering support of religious freedom and a deep respect for diverse beliefs. It has never been my intention to disparage people’s individual faith, and I’m sorry if my words were taken in that way.” – oh, the horror
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