NOTE: this letter was written before I was aware of the emergence into the popular press of clear, if asserted, evidence of a pattern of conduct by Senator Franken. The take is largely the same. Senator Franken continued making text-book amends of apology, atonement and resolution. I regret that he felt compelled to resign. His fellow Democrats might have acted more appropriately by censuring him publicly.
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THIS LETTER WILL ALMOST CERTAINLY NOT BE REPRINTED BY THE MINNEAPOLIS NEWSPAPER TO WHICH I SUBMITTED IT.
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THIS LETTER WILL ALMOST CERTAINLY NOT BE REPRINTED BY THE MINNEAPOLIS NEWSPAPER TO WHICH I SUBMITTED IT.
PERSONAL BRANDING IS OUT OF CONTROL; ALLEGATIONS SHOULD NOT BE ADVERTISING
Dear Editors and fellow citizens in a great
state,
Thank you for publishing this note from
someone in Alabama looking from afar on this allegation against your junior Senator.
This letter is a reminder, more to me than to you, that we all make mistakes;
it is what we do about them that shows the enduring content of our characters. Truthfully,
as a conservative Republican, Senator Franken’s often abrasive manner,
particularly toward Alabama’s favorite son (i.e., Attorney General J.B.
Sessions III), infuriates me.
Nevertheless, y’all in Minnesota are fortunate
to have a man of such high character representing you. The reading on 'The
View' by Ms Tweeden of the Senator’s private note of apology was distasteful,
at best. The good news is that the contents of that note reveal a leader of uncommon
maturity, compassion and humility in addressing, with civility, an allegation
that could end his career.
Does that note excuse the Senator's
behavior, if it actually occurred? No. Senator Franken’s own words, however,
provide you with evidence of his ability to face up to mistakes, learn from
them and grow into becoming a better man. You are the State that has produced
many giants of American liberalism. Please do not turn your backs on that
tradition by turning your backs on this Senator.
Oh, if my Party's Senate candidate in my
State had half the virtue displayed by Senator Franken, I would be so happy.
Very truly yours,
Ned
Edward J. McDonnell III, CFA PMP
Birmingham, Alabama
Birmingham, Alabama
