by Paul Jacob

As if politics weren't disgusting enough, now comes the Mark Foley scandal. You've no doubt heard the sickening details, which saves me repeating them.

What is hurting Republicans isn't one congressman's predatory behavior. It is the lack of leadership the GOP leadership has demonstrated in dealing with it that has evermore voters shaking their heads.

And with it so close to the election, the GOP is likely to lose the House. Possibly the Senate, too. They definitely deserve to lose. It's just that Democrats don't deserve to win.

For months, many suggested Democrats would retake Congress this election. Certainly the Republican base and independents have been depressed to watch all the wasteful pork-barrel spending. And polls show the public is in an angry mood not seen since 1994.

But because Democrats have failed to offer any meaningful agenda for reform, I expected the GOP to hold on, barely. That was until the Foley scandal broke.

Now, some GOP partisans are quick to give us a history lesson. They point out that back in 1983 Congressman Gerry Studds had a relationship with a 17-year old male page. When found out, Studds refused to resign or even apologize and yet served for another decade in Congress.

But what's the point? That Democrats were as bad or worse than Republicans? Some solace.

Congressman Ray LaHood of Illinois correctly argues the page program should be shut down. Though it's a sad commentary. One TV anchor wondered how we could trust them to run the country if we can't trust them around our kids?

Well, we can’t trust them either way. Nor either party.

Paul Jacob's "Common Sense" is published by Americans for Limited Government. Their website can be visited at www.limitedgov.org.