Pushing the Envelope

Alvin Greene is the Democratic candidate for the U.S. Senate in North Carolina. The unemployed military veteran is beginning to catch on. His awkward comments, such as suggesting that a line of action figures be modeled after him to create jobs, are largely gone. He is getting into a true campaign rhythm, uttering platitudes such as the "need to get Americans back to work" and "let's move South Carolina forward." Even with his revamped platform, he is still a long shot to win.

Greene's story is a remarkable one and has garnered no small amount of press. In a headline today it was announced that Greene was able to avoid embarrassing himself in his first major speech since winning his nomination. At least they spelled his name correctly.

In the article, it was mentioned as if in passing that Greene is facing a felony charge for showing obscene photos to a University of South Carolina student and asking her to his room. What the photos consisted of was not mentioned. Standards for nominating and electing candidates have been declining for years. Sexual affairs, fiscal improprieties, and lack of experience are no longer obstacles, even for the U.S. Senate. In a nation where a second rate comedian and failed radio host with no experience like Al Frankin can get elected to the U.S. Senate, anyone can. Anyone but Alvin Greene perhaps.

Greene's problem might be his timing. If he had waited a few more years before running, his chances would be much better. They used to advise politicians never to be caught in bed with a live man or a dead woman. Those standards have eased considerably over the years. Ted Kennedy was implicated in the death of a woman but had an illustrious career in the Senate. Alvin Greene only showed a woman some dirty pictures. It is only a matter of time until showing obscene pictures of yourself to a woman becomes a peccadillo, a speed bump at worst, for politicians. Until that time arrives, candidates such as Alvin Greene will be at a disadvantage.

It is likely that Greene could have killed the woman and chopped her into pieces and not harmed his chances of being elected. You have to give Greene credit for pushing the envelope though. It is men like him that pave the way for others.