Herman Cain

Is Herman Cain a Distraction?

As I said in my last article about Herman Cain - I like him. Or more precisely, I liked the way he appeared to answer questions honestly, without diversions and distractions. He was refreshing in a field of political professionals. That is not to say that I have an aversion to the other candidates for the Republican nomination.

All of the candidates appear to be honorable, likable, talented, intelligent and experienced contenders. Unfairly, much has been made of Gov. Perry's misspeaks. Most of the time Perry has been articulate, thoughtful and enthusiastic and he certainly has a presidential presence. These candidates may not be as electrifying and sharp-edged as Gov. Christie, however, they are running and he is not. Are you, Gov. Christie?

When the first two Cain accusers came forward about sexual harassment dating back to the 1990s I was hesitant to form an opinion until I had more data on which to form that opinion. Then Sharon Bialek moved into the spot light with very serious allegations that could not simply be a misinterpretation of innocent behaviors. OK, honestly, I was beginning to have serious reservations.

However, I was not firmly convinced, though I could no longer, in good conscience, support Mr. Cain's candidacy unless he took a polygraph - and passed. I have a background in law enforcement. Then, Ginger White made her announcement about a long term sexual relationship with Mr. Cain that had just ended a few months ago. I wondered about how his wife might interpret this list of wounded women with allegations. I have no doubt that he will lose a significant number of followers.

How does this upheaval leave the Republican nomination process? Cain stated today that he has an important announcement to make tomorrow (Saturday) after consulting with his wife. According to Fox News his funds are, as they say in Atlanta - Gone with the Wind -- and he may or may not be able to recover from these challenges to his campaign.

The likelihood that Mr. Cain will receive the party nomination is just short of the chance of a snowball in that hot extremity - no very likely at all. The current disquieting situation is not in the best interest of the Republican Party nor of Mr. Cain and his family. It is time for him to be a gentleman and say, "I think it is time to bow out of the race and go mend some fences. I will support whomever the Party chooses." End of story. Fade out…

I believe we are spending too much time discussing Mr. Cain and his various accusers when we should spend that time conferring on the issues that are rapidly pushing the United States over the edge of a very nasty cliff. The Middle East is blowing up in our faces. No, the Middle East is not a star in President Obama's crown - it is an explosive, potentially deadly mixture. The economy is sluggish and crawling at best.

Unfortunately, new more positive joblessness figures are misleading. We have become aggressively divided as a people. Does anyone remember 9/11? The current unrest is much too reminiscent of the turbulent 1960s. Once was enough, folks. There is a better way to resolve differences.

Let's all get back to working together and find answers to desperate questions before it is too late.

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