March 11, 2009
Posted: March 11th, 2009 04:57 PM ET

From
Vitter said reports of an airport run in are overblown.
Vitter said reports of an airport run in are overblown.

(CNN) - The Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee is putting heat on Louisiana Sen. David Vitter for a reported run-in with a Dulles Airport employee last Thursday as he scrambled to make a flight back to his home state.

“Sooner or later Senator Vitter should learn how to control himself,” said Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee spokesman Eric Schultz, in an apparent reference to the Louisiana Republican's past involvement with Deborah Jeane Palfrey, the so-called "DC Madam."

According to the Capitol Hill publication Roll Call, Vitter arrived at the gate 20 minutes before his flight was set to depart and went "ballistic" when he saw that the gate had already been closed.

Upon trying to open the door to the jetway himself, the senator set off a security alarm and quickly grew heated with an airport employee. Vitter ultimately backed down when the employee called security, Roll Call also reported.

But Vitter suggested Wednesday the report was overblown.

"In a rush to make my flight home for town hall meetings the next day, I accidentally went through a wrong door at the gate," Vitter said in a statement. "I did have a conversation with an airline employee, but it was certainly not like this silly gossip column made it out to be."

The Louisiana senator is expected to face a tough re-election bid in 2010, still vulnerable after his phone number appeared in Palfrey's "Black Book" in the summer of 2007.

Filed under: David Vitter


Robert   March 11th, 2009 2:13 pm ET

This senator needs to be returned to civilian life. He shouldn't be in charge of anything let alone making our laws. How can he look in the mirror at all. I hope he gets beat by the largest margin ever in his re-election bid. What a jerk.

catmom   March 11th, 2009 2:13 pm ET

The guy is such a jerk, but it doesn't say a whole lot about the folks who elected him either....they seem to be willing to put up with him and his antics.

Joshua   March 11th, 2009 2:13 pm ET

I agree that Pelosi is just plan crazy requesting such things. She is an important person but not one to deserve her own plan.

Although I think that when she does fly commercial, Iam sure she is much more reserved than Senetor Vitter is. It is lucky that he is a Senetor or else he would have been thrown into jail and questioned for his actions. Hopefully this will take him down a few pegs.

Mark in Atlanta   March 11th, 2009 2:12 pm ET

Sure David. Facing that kind of agro, I'm sure you needed some "cool down" time with one of your favorite whores.

bill   March 11th, 2009 2:11 pm ET

Is this the same "holier than thou" congressman who was on the call list for the "D.C. madam", and who tearfully told his wite and the public that he had "changed"?

Allan G. Hanson   March 11th, 2009 2:09 pm ET

It wasn't Nancy Peloci who requested a private plane. It was Newt Gingridge and the secret service that determined because the speaker was 3rd in line for the Presidentcy that for security reasons the Speaker should have a private jet.
I know this kills you right wing nuts but it is the truth. So live with it.
All members of Congress have many jets at their disposal, and use them frequently.

Cynthia   March 11th, 2009 2:09 pm ET

I am sure if this was one of the DEMS it would be a sob story, but since it is a republican they have to twist and turn it to be bad

Carolyn Mason   March 11th, 2009 2:09 pm ET

ray ray:

You don't know what you're talking about. Nancy Pelosi makes no demands to have a private aircraft. If you pay attention to what's going on you'd know better. Stop getting all your information from Fox News. As speaker of the house, the plane comes with the office. She has said that she would gladly fly "commercial".

Rob   March 11th, 2009 2:09 pm ET

Boy, thank goodness the DNC is on top of such pressing issues as this! This is far more important that the royal screw job their party is doing to the economy.

Here's a flashback for ya. Turns out back in 2001 James Carville, the same one who is now spearheading the DNC/Obama led "Rush is a big meanie." billboard fest and cry job was quoted as saying he hoped Bush failed. Well, more proof that when it comes to Dems, the rules are always different.

KMAN   March 11th, 2009 2:08 pm ET

The Louisiana senator is expected to face a tough re-election bid in 2010, still vulnerable after his phone number appeared in Palfrey's "Black Book" in the summer of 2007.

GIVE THE POOR GUY A BREAK ... HE WAS WAY AHEAD OF THE PACK ... HE WAS TRYING TO STIMULATE THE DC ECONOMY WAY BACK IN 2007!!

PULEEEZZZ!! lets tell some truth   March 11th, 2009 2:07 pm ET

HE SHOULD HAVE BEEN BUSTED...and why isnt RUSH L. in JAIL for drugs.??. whats going on here?? what dont we as citizens not KNOW?
Vitter is a typical Repube.. Not alot 'upstairs' .. just lookin out for his sweet pink 'derriere'

birdsfly   March 11th, 2009 2:06 pm ET

David Vitter is a holier-than-thou, "I have apologized to God for all of my sins, so I have been forgiven, I believe in imposing family values on my constituents but I don't have to follow them myself and Jesus DID WALK with the dinosaurs!" kind of guy.

Here in New Orleans, many refer to him as David "Black Book" Vitter.

Many intelligent Americans who possess critical thinking skills know that all politicians are capable of this sort of behavior. Yet those of us who don't blindly follow the party know when a buffoon is a buffoon, especially one who hides behind Jesus.

He and his Bible-thumping creationists are an embarrassment to anyone who possesses critical thinking skills, and unfortunately for the Republican Party, that excludes many of their blindly obedient voters.

At least Charles Schumer cannot profess to be a devout Catholic and preach on high!

JT in Fla   March 11th, 2009 2:06 pm ET

I agree with with Brien. But then what did you expect from a republican? Civallized behavior?

Bill Mosby   March 11th, 2009 2:03 pm ET

Too big for britches. Good working definition of "politician".

Dan, TX   March 11th, 2009 2:03 pm ET

He's a Senator and should have special privileges. He's important. I'm sure the employee misunderstood the situation.

David S.   March 11th, 2009 2:02 pm ET

Just another politician who thinks his you know what doesnt stink and everybody should bow before him. Maybe he can book his flights with Pelosi, she has the militaryat her beck and call.

RB in FL   March 11th, 2009 2:02 pm ET

"I'm a Senator! I'm above all the rules and laws that common folks need to follow!"

Richie   March 11th, 2009 2:02 pm ET

I guess none of you live in glass houses. Who among us has not lost our temper when confronted with the arrogance of the airlines and/or TSA? The nation's airports are torture chambers and I, for one, am glad that Vitter found that out.

Dieter Zerressen, Denver, CO   March 11th, 2009 2:02 pm ET

You don't "accidentally" try to go through the wrong door at an airport. The door is either open or shut. No civilian has authority, not even this clown Senator, to even "test" a door at the airport. I suppose he accidentally got into a bed with a DC-madam hooker too. Stop re-electing these self-righteous dolts. But he'll probably go back Louisiana and claim it was all a liberal conspiracy and that he has made things right with God, and they'll re-elect him.

gbrown2   March 11th, 2009 2:01 pm ET

PATHETIC!!!!LITTLE MAN!!!

Jason (from Chicago)   March 11th, 2009 2:00 pm ET

Hopefully he loses in 2010!

HAWK , TEXAS   March 11th, 2009 2:00 pm ET

Ray Ray, the reason that pelosi has a private plane is that she is third in line for the presidency. and congressional laws say she must travel in security flights. not commercial. read up dummy.

dootdeedoo   March 11th, 2009 2:00 pm ET

Well, Ray Ray,

As Pelosi is 3rd in line for the presidency should anything happen to Obama or Biden, it is reasonable to assume that her safety and security are paramount to our nation's interests. Therefore, her travel needs should be accommodated thusly...you know, moreso than some nobody senator who solicits prostitutes.

RKL-WPB   March 11th, 2009 2:00 pm ET

Dearest Ray Ray:

Your republican "deflectionist syndrome" is showing again...soooooo typical!

Dennis   March 11th, 2009 2:00 pm ET

About 99% of all politicians have a super-inflated opinion of themselves. It requires tremendous egoto be a politician.

HSNP   March 11th, 2009 1:59 pm ET

Dear Senator Vitter,

Please keep your pants up and your mouth shut. You'll be much better off.

Josh   March 11th, 2009 1:58 pm ET

IS THIS THE SAME GUY THAT USE TO SLEEP WITH PROSTIUTES?
A REPUBLICAN, TELLING EVERYONE OF US WHAT MORALITY IS.
HE IS THE SAME IDIOT OUT THER JUST SAYING KNOW TO ANYTHING AND EVERYTHING OUR NEW PRESIDENT WANTS TO DO TO FIX OUR ECONOMY.
HE CERTAINLY IS ONE OF THE VOICES OF THE GOP'ERS. (LOL)

KEEP IT UP "JOHN JOHN"

me   March 11th, 2009 1:58 pm ET

ray ray...

Pelosi is important. Vitter is not. She is the Speaker of the House in the United States Government. Third in command.

Vitter is a John.

Makes U Wonder   March 11th, 2009 1:57 pm ET

Just another example, like not paying taxes, how some politicans get away with things that you and I would get arrested for.

Just think, while Pelosi is demanding the military provide her with aircraft, her little jet sits at a cost to the taxpayers of 5.7 million per year. Yeah, like Obama says, we all need to cut back. Well, we do, but they don't. Wouldn't want Obama to cut back on his weekly parties and ordering steaks from Japan at $100.00 per pound. Yep, just love to see my taxes at work, oooops I mean, just love to see my taxes wasted.

And, if it's not safe for Pelosi to fly commercial, what makes it safe for you or I to fly commercial!

sandy   March 11th, 2009 1:57 pm ET

Do we really need people in Congress who act more immature than our children? I think not. This guy has some problems not only with his behavior but with his mouth.

George Ennis, Toronto, Canada   March 11th, 2009 1:57 pm ET

Why was he in such a rush? Unless the plane was empty there was no way there would be room for it to carry an ego the size of his.

lib4   March 11th, 2009 1:56 pm ET

United States Line of succession

1. President
2. Vice President
3. SPEAKER OF THE HOUSE – Nancy Pelosi
88. David Vitter

I don’t know about you but the third in command of any major US company gets to use a private fleet. Oh and by the way that rule to allow Pelosi to have a private fleet was passed for REPUBLICAN Denny Hastert after 9/11. Learn the facts before mindless repeating the garbage you get from a pill popping addict. Thanks come again

ben   March 11th, 2009 1:55 pm ET

Ray Ray – nancy Pelosi did not ask for the plane. After 9/11 it was the secret service that gave her the planes and asked her to use them. Please stop recycling debunked stories.

austintx   March 11th, 2009 1:55 pm ET

yeah, why doesn't he just demand that military planes be constantly available to him at taxpayer expense, like SanFranNan Pelosi.

Mari   March 11th, 2009 1:55 pm ET

********** One more comment please CNN***************************

FYI RAY RAY:

Here is a quote from a 2007 story on NPR:

" Rep. Nancy Pelosi's predecessor House Speaker, Dennis Hastret (R-IL) began flying military planes for official travel ( and travel home) in the aftermath of the September 11th attacks. The Air Force has a stable of planes for travel by the Speaker, Cabinet members, top generals and for Congressional trips to Iraq and other war zones."

WHY bring Nancy Pelosi, into this blog about A REPUBLICAN WOMANIZER?????

walleye   March 11th, 2009 1:55 pm ET

We have all been in situations where we missed a flight or been late or whatever. Time for this guy to GROW UP. He is probably a real hothead, and should not be re-elected. We dont need these short-fused people deciding on our laws.

Flex   March 11th, 2009 1:54 pm ET

This man is an arrogant christianist who would support a constitutional amendment to ban airport employees from getting in his way. He should be arrested and prosecuted by the airport for compromising it's security.

Matt   March 11th, 2009 1:54 pm ET

Vitter nearly made the flight because a VIP military 737 jet was taking off before this flight and it blocked the entire airport for 2 hours. The 450 seat 737 had a single passenger on board – Nancy Pelosi on her way for a quick lunch in San Francisco Cost to taxpayers: $ 145,000

Craig   March 11th, 2009 1:54 pm ET

Here we go again! Not only was this guy involved in an illicit affair involving prostitution, but now feels that he is above everyone else. But I guess that if you're a conservative Southern Republican the law doesn't apply to you.

Carmela, Longwood, Florida   March 11th, 2009 1:53 pm ET

One has to understand the man: maybe he had an appointment set up with a call girl.

David "Chinese Lady at the Airport" Vitter   March 11th, 2009 1:52 pm ET

Man, this would have been sweet if he had thrown himself on the ground and started rolling!.

kerry   March 11th, 2009 1:52 pm ET

Hey ray ray.....do you know what it means to "Stay on point" it means, this story is about Vitter. I didn't see Nancy Pelosi's name in the article. So....find a story about Ms. Pelosi and but your rants on that post. You sound like a dumbass on this post!

Simpliticus   March 11th, 2009 1:51 pm ET

The confrontation was probably heated but is being down-played for pr purposes. Powerful people like to be powerful and Vitter probably had his tantrum. Enough said!

Marge   March 11th, 2009 1:51 pm ET

Didn't the republicans want to impeach Cynthia McKinney and throw her out of the HOuse because she had an argument with a capital guard?

Isn't it funny how the republicans consider themselves above following the rules but want to go out of their way to make a mountain out of a mole hill when a democrat is involved.

Patrick, Mass.   March 11th, 2009 1:51 pm ET

He lost his temper at an airport. Gee, no one else ever did that! But he is a serial liar after all. Yeah, he's the voice of morality all right.

Deb in Colo   March 11th, 2009 1:50 pm ET

So, so tired of elected officials of BOTH parties, who think they deserve special treatment because they were elected.

The lonely Libertarian of Liverpool   March 11th, 2009 1:50 pm ET

This is another example of the elitist attitude of our leadership. Yes if this was you or I we would be cooling ourselves in prison for several years, with a felony conviction.
This I'm above the law is what got us into the mess this country is in.

wonderwoman   March 11th, 2009 1:50 pm ET

Now seriously. How many doors are there to go through at an airport gate with a big plane sitting on the other side of the window?

SC   March 11th, 2009 1:49 pm ET

How about Nancy's fits of anger. At least is is not taking a private plane like Queen Nancy.

alvino   March 11th, 2009 1:49 pm ET

Just ask Larry Craig. Republicans should stay out of airports.

TJ in Nawlins   March 11th, 2009 1:48 pm ET

Believe this Louisiana citizen, Vitter does not support me. He has to be in trouble if there is a strong push to have a porn star run against him in the Republican primary. Thank God I'm a Dem. I might have to support her.

greed is not good   March 11th, 2009 1:48 pm ET

Can this guy possibly get into any more trouble? Prostitutes, instigating trouble at the airport....what's next?

Jared   March 11th, 2009 1:48 pm ET

When will we start choosing our leaders because they are LEADERS, and not these clearly pompous, self-righteous party hacks? How about a system where we don't let these folks stay in office so long they are comfortable abusing anything. Choose the Congress and Senate like a jury!

FYI: Speaker Pelosi has a plane because she is after the VP in the line of succession, and after 9/11/01 it was determined that position (at that time held by Speaker Hastert) needed extra protection.

SC   March 11th, 2009 1:47 pm ET

How about Nancy's fits of anger. At least is is not taking a private plane like Queen Nancy.

Mari   March 11th, 2009 1:47 pm ET

@ ray ray.......... have you checked your facts or are you just SPEWING more GOP-lies???????????????????????????????????????

Matt   March 11th, 2009 1:47 pm ET

Vitter nearly made the flight because a VIP military 737 jet was taking off before this flight and it blocked the entire airport for 2 hours. The 450 seat 737 had a single passenger on board – Nancy Pelosi on her way for a quick lunch in San Francisco Cost to taxpayers: $ 145,000

TJ in Nawlins   March 11th, 2009 1:46 pm ET

Believe this Louisiana citizen, Vitter does not support me. He has to be in trouble if there is a strong push to have a porn star run against him in the Republican primary. Thank God I'm a Dem. I might have to support her.

Tina   March 11th, 2009 1:46 pm ET

He should have been treated the way an ordinary citizen would have been treated. Hasseled by the airport police and then drug off to a holding cell, ultimately spending time in jail, being fined heavily, etc.

I hate people who think they are priveleged and deserve special accomations.

Next time, try arriving on time, then you won't miss your plane.

TCM   March 11th, 2009 1:46 pm ET

Funny, how CNN digs up all the dirt about a republican senator for this article...however, when they have a dumptruck full of filth about their beloved Obama...they fail to publish any of it....Ayers, Rev Wright...birth place....racist church....no experience...all the goodies about Obama cleverly buried....nice job for a biased establishment

tom   March 11th, 2009 1:46 pm ET

Maybe he was on his way to an 'apointment'..

Dave   March 11th, 2009 1:46 pm ET

L.L.P.O.F.
(Liar, Liar, Pants On Fire)

Mari   March 11th, 2009 1:45 pm ET

Well........ well...... well........ another sullied holier-than-thou-Republican?

Honestly, the far-right tears apart anyone who made a mistake of their taxes (which millions of Americans do, or have you not seen the commercial offering to help folks with their tax debt!) and here is one of their own........ caught having a blow-job!

What's the old saying....... aaah, yes.... "PEOPLE WHO LIVE IN GLASS HOUSES......." Hypocrites.

chelle   March 11th, 2009 1:44 pm ET

So let me get this straight...this man uses hookers and he's okay. Edwards cheats on his wife and he's a dog.....Americans are amazing....

Mike from Ohio   March 11th, 2009 1:43 pm ET

David Vitter is going to be a one -termer.

P. Y.   March 11th, 2009 1:43 pm ET

@ ray ray

Stuff something in your mouth until you actually learn what goes on in the world. It really ticks you off that " A WOMAN'", Nancy Palosi, has this position, doesn't it ?

Idiot !

MCB   March 11th, 2009 1:43 pm ET

Ray ray-not necessarily a Pelosi fan, but the speaker of the house is 3rd in line to Presidency so I think she is allowed some leeway for security. Also, what she gets is no different than what previous speakers of the house have asked for. All politicians think in some way they are above the law...he should at least get a citation for acting that way.

Sniffit   March 11th, 2009 1:43 pm ET

And we're suprised that he continues to prove he is a jerk? This is the same guy who cheated on his wife in private but made a public spectacle out of his loathing of Clinton's Lewinsky episode, calling for his impeachment because it showed such a lack of moral fiber to get a BJ in the WH. He's a partisan politician thru-and-thru and even his own party (and certainly his constituents) shoudl be thru with him.

Ron   March 11th, 2009 1:42 pm ET

Just another right wing nut job....

Vitter has won praise from pro-life groups for his stance against abortion.[43] In 2001, he co-authored legislation to restrict the number of physicians allowed to prescribe RU-486, a drug used in medical abortions.

Rated A by the National Rifle Association, Vitter has been a consistent champion of gun rights.

In April 2008, Vitter introduced a joint resolution proposing a constitutional amendment that a child born in the United States is not a citizen unless a parent is a citizen, lawful permanent resident, or alien serving in the military.

Vitter advocated abstinence-only sex education, emphasizing abstinence while excluding issues involving birth control and safe sex.

In 2005 Vitter introduced a resolution supporting prayer at school board meetings in response to an earlier district court decision that the Louisiana's Tangipahoa Parish practice of opening meetings with Christian prayers was unconstitutional.

Ladont   March 11th, 2009 1:42 pm ET

ray ray,

Actually every Speaker of the House has been accoroded that privilege since s/he ranks immediately behind the Vice President in terms of succession to the President.

Cromwell   March 11th, 2009 1:41 pm ET

What would the Republican propagandists be saying if Vitter were a Democrat?

Remember how Rush Limbaugh, Hannity, Laura Ingraham, etc. howled when Patrick Kennedy ran into a barrier and when Cynthia Kenny had a run in with a Capitol Police Officer?
Remember how they screeched about Bill Clinton's infidelity?

Senator Larry Craig gets busted for playing footsie in a public toilet a the Repubs are strangely silent.
Senator Vitter is exposed for frequenting prostitutes. Do the Repubs demand that he be impeached? No.
In fact, several weeks ago, Laura Ingraham called Vitter a "future leader" of the Republican Party.

Beverly Langston   March 11th, 2009 1:41 pm ET

It seems the Republicans have all kinds of problums. Mostly it is steeling or sex. some one ought to send them to school and teach them how to handle both.
Then they might, only might, leave others to their own lives and stop telling others what and what not to do. They are bad and Vitter is only the tip.
Bev. from Oregon

Dave   March 11th, 2009 1:41 pm ET

I wasn't aware that it was common practice to open ANY doors at an airport gate. How dumb does this slimy Republican think the rest of us are?

cnnnewser   March 11th, 2009 1:40 pm ET

Isn't Vitter the republican from Louisiana that was caught with prostitutes? That's still a senator?
LOL!

LB   March 11th, 2009 1:39 pm ET

The Democratic Senatorial Campaign is like the National Enquirer of DC. Let the voters of Louisiana select their own senators – Dems have enough of a mess to clean up in the own party with the dirty Burris, the corrupt Reid, – the flip flop arrogant Kerry, – the invalid Byrd – The Finance Chair Dodd who does not know how to spell oversight, let alone do it, and the incapacitated Kennedy

Anonymous   March 11th, 2009 1:38 pm ET

hmmm Senator Vitter recently tried to stop an automatic pay raise for our fearless leaders. They wouldn't allow it, now they are trying to trash him in the media.

jona   March 11th, 2009 1:38 pm ET

Laughable. Senate DEMs? R U KIDDING US HERE CNN?

Richard L   March 11th, 2009 1:38 pm ET

Let's see if Republicans hypocritically re-elect David Vitter and Larry Craig just like they did with Henry Hyde so many times.

Dan   March 11th, 2009 1:38 pm ET

If this had been a Democrat this wouldn't have even been reported. The bias as CNN is so blatent.

Fred the Moderate   March 11th, 2009 1:37 pm ET

Vitter is still around? After the DC Maddam incident were he was using a prostitution ring for personal pleasure? Which, by the way is illegal and people are sent to jail for buying prostitutes services. I guess if your a congressman from LA. it's OK?
Honestly who cares what a man like this has to say? Just ask his poor wife who stood there while he made his confession, looking totally stressed out and pissed off. I'm amazed he has the gall to show his face again. Prostitutes? This is the kind of leadership the "contract with America produced" No wonder the GOP is lost. They Lost the Religious Right, which swang the elections before.

Doug, New Jersey   March 11th, 2009 1:36 pm ET

Obviously an honest person who does not live a life based on hate would believe the republican over the silly partisan lib media.

alvino   March 11th, 2009 1:35 pm ET

Vitter continues to be a major embarrassment. I doubt that anything that is done to correct his behavior, or even help him grow mentally, will make him change.

tee   March 11th, 2009 1:35 pm ET

Couldn't miss his appointment with the lovely ladies of the night....

Los   March 11th, 2009 1:35 pm ET

ray ray, what the hell does this article have to do with Nancy Pelosi? Why don't you try to work in Acorn, tax cuts, socialism, and other assorted GOP talking points while you're at it?

Lee   March 11th, 2009 1:35 pm ET

Another "family values republican" scumbag.

I'd like to know why his prostitute had to face charges involving over a decade in jail (she commited suicide over it) while he got off free.

Does David Vitter still have to wear diapers and be told that he is a "bad boy" and how do his republican supporters feel about that?

calle   March 11th, 2009 1:34 pm ET

Haven't we had enough of him. I haven't heard of any good things that he has done for American. Just rubbish!!! ENOUGH!!!! GO HOME AND STAY HOME!!!!!!!!!!!!

AG   March 11th, 2009 1:34 pm ET

To ray ray: That's not exactly similar to Nancy Pelosi's case. In fact she demanded nothing, the issue was raised by the security agencies. If you are really trying to find why she needs a non-stop flight, check what Mr. Hastert used during his time. Read up on regular news sources

On second though, don't read. It's not good for wackos and the news items are all biased twoards liberals anyway. You already knew that, right?

ChrisinFlorida   March 11th, 2009 1:33 pm ET

Ray ray: Um...You do realize that Nancy Pelosi is REQUIRED To have a private jet with security. The Speaker has had to do that since 9/11. Denny Hastert had the same thing. Didn't see you complaining then.

dont drop the soap Limbaugh   March 11th, 2009 1:32 pm ET

Maybe he was busy toe tapping in the rest room.

California Gold   March 11th, 2009 1:32 pm ET

Vitter was wrong and he knows he was wrong. It was just an "accident". Many of us have raced to catch a plane only to find the gate closed. Many of us are unhappy that we missed a flight, but we don't act like a lunatic and set off security alarms trying to force doors open. Bouquet of spoiled flowers for Vitter's spoiled brat behavior.

Dave   March 11th, 2009 1:32 pm ET

Why does this Con commenter make this about Pelosi? Typical GOP goof...divert and attack. Party of idiots.

Anonymous   March 11th, 2009 1:31 pm ET

To ray ray: That's not exactly similar to Nancy Pelosi's case. In fact she demanded nothing, the issue was raised by the security agencies. If you are really trying to find why she needs a non-stop flight, check what Mr. Hastert used during his time. Read up on regular news sources

On second though, don't read. It's not good for wackos and the news items are all biased twoards liberals anyway. You already knew that, right?

John Wilson   March 11th, 2009 1:31 pm ET

Who would have thunk?

We have a Congress & a Senate just full of these under-developed, emotionally immature children who are always acting out: they all think the entire world revolves arounf their anus...

Adam from Ohio   March 11th, 2009 1:31 pm ET

Republican senators and airports apparently don't mix.

At least Larry Craig wasn't setting off alarms when he was tap-tap-tapping away in the restroom stall.

Fair is Fair   March 11th, 2009 1:31 pm ET

@ ray ray...

While I despise Pelosi as much as you, I found out an interesting fact.

The speaker of the house, due to security issues after 9/11, coupled with the fact that she is just after Biden in succession, is entitled to military transport.

This was granted by Bush the 43rd.

bill   March 11th, 2009 1:30 pm ET

if it were me i would be in jail.but these repubs can do just about anything they want. you sure he didnt get delayed in mens restroom. LOL.

John   March 11th, 2009 1:30 pm ET

Oh please, ray ray - Pelosi and Vitter are both wrong. What she has done does not excuse his babyish (pun intended) behavior.

rich   March 11th, 2009 1:29 pm ET

They should have tazered his rear end. That would have brought his tantrum to a painful but instand end.

CS in PA   March 11th, 2009 1:29 pm ET

Throw all the bums out and elect true statesmen / stateswomen! So sick of this need for power at all our expense.

Lt Col USAF Retired   March 11th, 2009 1:28 pm ET

Pelosi has her own plane same as Hastert had...it's a 9/11 precaution dumba$$, why should she turn it down when the last guy enjoyed the perk?

Jack   March 11th, 2009 1:26 pm ET

This guy needs a BJ (bailout job, for the faint of heart).

Heidi Nofleiss   March 11th, 2009 1:26 pm ET

Quick! Find a hooker in a hurry. Vitter's testerone just kicked in.

constantly amazed   March 11th, 2009 1:26 pm ET

He isn't entitled to union chartered and government planes, like the democrats so he has to contend with the system available to the rest of us. At least he was going home for "town hall" meetings not to a luxurious Florida resort to meet with union leaders

Timus   March 11th, 2009 1:26 pm ET

Yep get em!!! Just like they did Cynthia McKinney!!

Carol   March 11th, 2009 1:26 pm ET

"Tantrum" is a good choice of words considering the rumors that floated around about his idea of fun with hookers. :-)

Mobius   March 11th, 2009 1:26 pm ET

Wonder if he was in the men's room?

Soccer Nana   March 11th, 2009 1:26 pm ET

Senator Vitter needs to bow out while he is ahead. All the ugliness centered around the DC Madame will resurface, along with other things, during his campaign for reelection. His CHILDREN are older now, which means his children's friends are older and they understand things better. Older children can be very cruel in "teasing on the playground" after hearing their parents discussing certain topics; he should not want to subject his children to any sort of controversy surrounding his "past sins"..

Billy G in Las Vegas   March 11th, 2009 1:25 pm ET

I'm not a David Vitter, or any other obstructionist Republican, fan BUT I would "go ballistic" IF the airline closed out my flight 20 minutes early!!!

WHAT the HELL ever happened to running ON schedule? NOT early, NOT late, ON TIME!!!

Don from KC   March 11th, 2009 1:24 pm ET

Maybe CNN should metion what party he belongs too. If he was Republican, I wouldn't have to ask this because they would have mentioned it 20 times already. Please do not report on a liberal basis.

lloyd roberts   March 11th, 2009 1:24 pm ET

So let's see, Deborah Jean at 55 killed herself because she was looking at a life sentence for being the DC Madam and her customer is allowed be keep making laws. Oh, no problem, I forgot. He's born again and made peace with his God and his wife. That's the new excuse, I'm born again I have sinned. No make it all go away. Well the way I look at it senator, Deborah Jean will probably end up in heaven and you're going straight to hypocracy hell

Norom   March 11th, 2009 1:23 pm ET

ray ray
I am aware of the fact that wingnuts very seldom let facts get in the way of their opinions – but, after the 9/11 attacks it was deemed (by the department of defense and the white house) that the person 2 heartbeats away from the presidency warranted a military jet. This started with Dennis Hastert. I am sure you knew that and were slamming him for it as well

suzyku   March 11th, 2009 1:23 pm ET

He should have been arrested! This guy is nuts!!! Another rethug idiot, it seems to be a prerequisite for being a republican–only druggies, fools and clueless need to join!

Mike   March 11th, 2009 1:23 pm ET

Why not report on rangel blowing up on a private citizen in the capital building when he was asked about his taxpayer funder lease of a luxry vehicle. He was asked why he did not make the payment instead of taxpayers and rangel used alot of dirty language. Saw it on Fox and you cannot deny it happened.

Jeff W.   March 11th, 2009 1:22 pm ET

Wow what a surprise, another entitled republican.

CJ   March 11th, 2009 1:21 pm ET

Vitter was late I wonder where he was? He is such a moron!

Lisa in Shelton   March 11th, 2009 1:21 pm ET

Big shocker – politicians behaving badly. But, ray ray should do more research on urban legends pages before he belives lies and perpetuates their unsubstantiated accusations. The Pelosi plane thing was a hugely overblown deal – instituted by the Bush White House after 9/11 so the Speaker could be transported quickly to DC as national emergencies arise – she actually used this big plane only once. I do not like the connotations of ^ costs/little benefits for her recent trip with other congresspeople to Italy though.

fella from Chicago   March 11th, 2009 1:21 pm ET

If Barack would let Senator Vitter use Air Foce One like he does Nancy none of this would have happened.

Shucks   March 11th, 2009 1:20 pm ET

Sounds like an idiot who acted like an idiot and now is trying to lie his way out of it like an idiot. Maybe he was late because he was at another Madames business. I'm sure he is a professed christian though.

Farrell, Houston, Tx   March 11th, 2009 1:20 pm ET

This guy is a scrumbag and should have been gone long ago. Vitter is just flexing his muscle because he still thinks he's above the law. Vitter was probably late because he was up to his old tricks. Check it out.

please   March 11th, 2009 1:19 pm ET

I hate when I walk through wrong doors at the airport. They are never marked clearly to say "do not enter" or "authorized personnel only."

Beverly, NYC   March 11th, 2009 1:18 pm ET

In a rush to make my flight home for town hall meetings the next day" Can you say LAME. Was that the last flight ever, or was a special someone waiting who would not refund if your were late?

Otto   March 11th, 2009 1:17 pm ET

Hey, he is a politician and as such, above the law. Remember folks, they are no longer ordinary people; you the people gave them the power. The Airline employee was lucky it was not the previous VP; he would have given the finger instead.

Mike   March 11th, 2009 1:17 pm ET

A reply to ray ray
Nacy Pelosi is the speaker of the house. She is third in line to the Presidency. Rightfully she is entitle to an airplane.

David Vitter is a republican – one of those who put us in the predicament we are in as a nation. And a John.

Jay Dubbe   March 11th, 2009 1:17 pm ET

It's funny how predictable CNN has become. When it's a negative story about a Republican, the party affiliation is always mentioned within the first two paragraphs. When it's a Democrat, it appears within the last two paragraphs (if, at all).

You have now sunk below Fox News as the most biased "news" channel.

Shay   March 11th, 2009 1:17 pm ET

Don't see anything on CNN about "Air Diva" Pelosi. Records show she is overloading the Dept of Def. with requests for aircraft and when it not G5 quality the claws come out.

John Starnes Tampa Florida   March 11th, 2009 1:17 pm ET

A "conversation" does not get one escorted by security guards. You or I would have been arrested.

Ken in NC   March 11th, 2009 1:16 pm ET

Constitutional Position of the Speaker of the House in the line of succession behind the Vice President requires that the Speaker be in position at all times, when traveling to return to Washington, DC as President of the US in the event of a catastrophic loss of both the POTUS and the VPOTUS. While I am not a supporter of Queen Pelosi, what she is doing is not part of her “Queenly” ways.

As for Vitter, well he simply doesn't know "Vetter". hehehehe

GiggsisGod   March 11th, 2009 1:16 pm ET

Hey ray ray,

Pelosi is Speaker of the House, thus 3rd in line to the Presidency. The decision for the military plane was made by the DoD and the House Sgt -at – Arms, who is tasked with security for the Speaker, for security reasons in a post-9/11 world – just the same as Denny Hastert.

Stop listening to Hannity and educate yourself before you post ignorant and cheap right – wing talking points here.

CircusMaximus   March 11th, 2009 1:16 pm ET

"I went through a wrong door..."

Yes, you went through the "wrong door." It's the door that sets off alarms – the one that you're not supposed to go through for safety and security reasons.

This is called "delusions of grandeur," or the self-obsessed notion that you are allowed to do things that you know you are not allowed to do simply by virtue of you being "you." Like prying open an obviously closed gate and being belligerent about it. Then whining about it when you get caught – as if you were somehow the victim of an unfair/unjust system.

I teach 10th graders. They routinely use the same tactic.

Bill Stafford VA   March 11th, 2009 1:16 pm ET

No need to elect politicians, just select like we do for a jury. Two year terms for Congress and Senate would be more than sufficient. That could rid us of politicians and political parties and give our current leadership the opportunity to get real jobs- thats real change.

Jason B.   March 11th, 2009 1:16 pm ET

"I accidentally went through a wrong door at the gate"

Umm, the last I checked there's only 1 door at a gate and it leads to the airplane. And it tends to be located *behind* a counter.

I agree with an earlier comment...any ordinary person would've been hog-tied, tazered, strip searched, arrested, and jailed.

Anthony   March 11th, 2009 1:16 pm ET

Now, let me think...had this been me, I would be sitting in jail, cooling my jets, (pun unavoidable), awaiting trial for this and that. Senator Ballistic needs to be taken to the wood shed for this one! Fair is fair.

Terry, Dallas Texas   March 11th, 2009 1:16 pm ET

Ever since 9/11 the Speaker of the House is REQUIRED to fly on a private plane because they are 3rd in line for the Presidency of the United States. Prior to her there was only one Speaker affected by this. Dennis Hastert (Republican) did not require as large an aircraft because of the short commute back to IL. It was not her who decided that she needed an aircraft that could make it to California without refueling. That was decided by the House Sargeant at Arms who felt that for the sake of security she needed to be able to go non-stop. This was also approved by the BUSH administration who agreed with the need for security.

Lou   March 11th, 2009 1:16 pm ET

Hey Ray Ray – like most idiot repubs, you seem to forget things when convenient! Former Speaker Denny Hastert was provided a jet, at his disposal after 9/11. The position of Speaker is as the 3rd in line to the presidency if something were to happen the Pres and VP. so it was for this reason that fatboy hastert got the jet and flew for his time in office til he was justifably removed for overt-stupidity. Now that same courtesy is afforded the current Speaker. she just doesnt command it when she wants.
Do some research, or here's a thought – think – before you open your pie-hole.

G   March 11th, 2009 1:15 pm ET

@ ray ray

I think you should know that the military plane is protocol after september 11th nancy didn't ask for it.

vette78man   March 11th, 2009 1:15 pm ET

ray ray - the military plane is provided to Pelosi because of the order of succession (Pez, VP, then Speaker of the House). It's a security measure, not something she demands.

Dylan from Minneapolis   March 11th, 2009 1:15 pm ET

"ballistic"

Hahaha, knock it off ya loose cannon!

Cathy Brandes   March 11th, 2009 1:15 pm ET

I agree with Brian, anyone else would have been arrested. I am still amazed Senator Vitter was re-elected! Perhaps the voters in Louisana can explain that!

carlo   March 11th, 2009 1:14 pm ET

Jim:

Senator Chuck Schumer doesn't wear diapers with hookers, so I don't think its the same.

KLK   March 11th, 2009 1:14 pm ET

This guy does not have the temperament for public service.

grumpy   March 11th, 2009 1:14 pm ET

They get pretty damn important don't they ! Ever wonder why we've got problems ?

jack   March 11th, 2009 1:13 pm ET

Let me guess, it wasn't HIS fault right?

carlo   March 11th, 2009 1:13 pm ET

ray ray March 11th, 2009 12:58 pm ET

Democrat Eric Schultz says,

"Sooner or later Senator Vitter should learn how to control himself.."

Riiiight. If Vitter would only abuse his authority like Nancy Pelosi who demands the military provide her a manned aircraft whenever sh wants… he'd have a lot less stress at the airport!!

Seriously… Does Nancy think she's the President and have her own fleet of planes???
***************************************************************************
Poor, poor, demented, ray ray. What you're doing is called projection. This isn't about Pelosi (who btw, volunteered to fly commercial, but was afforded the privilege all members of Congress receives), its about, unfortunately, my Senator, who has lived his entire life feeling entitled to special treatment. His sense of entitlement can be the only thing that could explain how he was busted wearing diapers with a hooker and still not only stays in the Senate, but makes speeches from his high horse and is seeking re-election. No respect, no humility, no dignity-Vitter.

Independent   March 11th, 2009 1:13 pm ET

Nancy Pelosi has a plane due to the events of 9/11...Speaker of the House Hasert also had that plane....If you forget your history, if anything happens to the President/Vice President, the Speaker of the House becomes President.... So stop putting the blame on her for that....it is the Governments move, not hers...

I guess, Mr. Vitter has the "do you know who I am." syndrome. Of course, when caught, comes out the holier than though, I didn't do nothing wrong....sheeesh!!!!!!!!!!!

EllieBelle   March 11th, 2009 1:12 pm ET

Just another typical Republican.

Jo   March 11th, 2009 1:12 pm ET

I guess he thinks the laws only apply to ordinary people and with him being a senator he can get away with it. Why wasn't he arrested or detained like anybody else would have been.

Tony   March 11th, 2009 1:12 pm ET

He should ask Pelosi if she could arrange a flight on one of the G-5s she uses.......

arithmetic is liberal   March 11th, 2009 1:11 pm ET

Republican Senators seem to have more trouble getting through an airport than someone of Middle Eastern descent these days.

First Sen. Craig and his airport toe tapping, now Vitter goes nanners?

Maybe someone should do a study potentially linking conservative sexual compulsives and airport security risks.

Ex-Republican   March 11th, 2009 1:11 pm ET

The guy needs to be put out to pasture. And to a previous post, so does Pelosi and Reed (both are drama queens).

Jackie in Dallas   March 11th, 2009 1:10 pm ET

Ah, ha. A Republican can do no wrong, but a Democrat can do no right? What is sauce for the goose is sauce for the gander. If the neocons are going to hound John Edwards and others for morality issues, then I think finding one of their prominent members in the black book of a madam for prostitutes should equally as damning. Or have one that has voted consistently against giving gays equal rights who gets arrested for soliciting in a men's room be equally mocked.

I think another example of the Republican mantra: do as I say, not as I do...

Tom in Delaware   March 11th, 2009 1:09 pm ET

I see we're giving the National Enquier a run for it's money today...unlike the John Edwards story last year.

Terry   March 11th, 2009 1:09 pm ET

Any adult should be able to control his or her temper. A child who behaved this way in elementary school would be spending a few days in detention.

Andrew   March 11th, 2009 1:08 pm ET

Reps/Dems need to realize that the world doesn't revolve around them. We already have no faith in them, including Obama.

JerryAW   March 11th, 2009 1:08 pm ET

Oops! That should read "for YOUR information" ..... Sorry.

Fred   March 11th, 2009 1:08 pm ET

Sounds like Vitter needs a diaper change.

Guess it is appropriate for a man who was already outed by the prostitute he frequented for his diaper fetish!

How can anyone who supports family values be willing to stand up for this man?

Michael M. Noonan   March 11th, 2009 1:07 pm ET

Perhaps it's a little more important to ask why American taxpayers are paying more than a half million dollars a year to carry around Madame Pelosi, who insists upon using military aircraft. What an arrogant, entitled twit.

GiggsisGod   March 11th, 2009 1:07 pm ET

Hey ray ray,

Pelosi is the Speaker of the House, thus 3rd in line to the Presidency. She has a military plane due to security concerns post-9/11, just like Denny Hastert. That decision was made by the DoD and the House Sgt-at-Arms, who is tasked with security for the Speaker.

Please remove your head from Sean Hannity's butt and educate yourself before you post ignorant comments here.

Not to mention that your comments have nothing to do with the story. You just wanted to throw out some tired, cheap and completely ignorant right-wing talking points, didn't you?

HesAHypocrite   March 11th, 2009 1:07 pm ET

Take it from someone who has encountered Mr. Vitter over two decades, back to Tulane Law School – he treats people with disdain, and he's a wolf in sheep's clothing. He casts out his religious and abstinence platforms while he schedules hookers. He has done very little for Louisiana except keep his political butt safe while selling snake oil to religious fanatics. Not a nice guy: never has been, never will be.

Anne   March 11th, 2009 1:07 pm ET

No matter whether Democrat or Republican, they are not above the same rules and regulations that everyone else must abide by.

To RayRay   March 11th, 2009 1:06 pm ET

@ray ray-
How does anything Mr Vitter did have anything to do with Ms Pelosi???

That's another story altogether. One that is probably not even close to what you are saying it is.

David Vitter is a hypocritical @@S!! That's much different from Pelosi apparently worrying about her security with the GOP's hate speech and calls for a revolution. The psycho's that shoot people always seem to be from the right.

aaron   March 11th, 2009 1:06 pm ET

ray ray – stay on topic you mope. This is about a guy who thinks he is above FAA and TSA rules and regs. Changing the subject is the mark of a weak mind and a weaker argument.

Independent Paul   March 11th, 2009 1:06 pm ET

If anyone on this post hasn't had a blowup at an airport, then I am calling you out as a total hypocrite!

This has happened to us all, and we have all gotten p*ssed off about it. If it hasn't happened to you, then you have never flown on a commercial airline before.

JerryAW   March 11th, 2009 1:05 pm ET

To ray ray –
For yur information, Ms Pelosi has been more than willing to fly commercial; the status of her office requires that she have the protection she receives -- this is not her decision. Get over it, already.

Sheryl   March 11th, 2009 1:05 pm ET

ray ray... the speaker of the House is required to have a manned aircraft. She is in the line to assume the presidency. When she became speaker, she did not ask for the planes. It was a requirement of her office.

keeth in california   March 11th, 2009 1:05 pm ET

"Tantrum" is appropriate for Vitter, since he liked to dress in diapers for his prostitutes.

Jane (Minnesota)   March 11th, 2009 1:05 pm ET

Mr Vitter, why do you think you can break rules at the airport that a common person would have been taken into custody for trying??? You are setting a WONDERFUL example for people by your actions. Congratulations!!! What a drama queen!!!

arithmetic is liberal   March 11th, 2009 1:05 pm ET

They would have thrown me in jail if I'd have done something so brazen.

And if Vitter has a problem with the airports, maybe he can help by starting to lift the ridiculous, liberty-reducing garbage you have to go through at the airport, like removing your shoes before a flight.

The things they make ordinary citizens go through at the airport are ABSURD considering that at the same time there is almost no security at our ports of entry.

We get to take our shoes off, and shipping magnates get a free pass.

Only in America.

Johnny DC   March 11th, 2009 1:05 pm ET

Anything to win another seat, right? Even if it means grossly exaggerating a story to slander a public servant. Nice work.

LYNETTE IN CA   March 11th, 2009 1:04 pm ET

HERE'S THE STORY:
After arrivingt 20 min. too late, he set off the security alarm trying to go to the plane, the Louisiana senator proceeded to dress down an airline employee who told him entering the restricted area was forbidden. HE INVOKED HIS STANDING AS A SENATOR, DELIVERING A "DO YOU KNOW WHO I AM" TIRADE, the paper said. Vitter wouldn't calm down, even after the employee threatened to call security.
"Vitter, according to the witness, remained defiant, yelling that the employee could call the police if he wanted to and their supervisors, WHO, PRESUMABLY, MIGHT BE MORE IMPRESSED WITH HIS SENATOR'S PIN," the paper's Heard on the Hill column noted. "But after talking a huffy big game, Vitter apparently thought better of pushing the confrontation any further. When the gate attendant left to find a security guard, Vitter turned tail and simply fled the scene."

Al, NY NY   March 11th, 2009 1:03 pm ET

@jim: When that happened to Schumer, did the GOP mouthpieces go ballistic with glee and smart-a#* comments?

David in KC   March 11th, 2009 1:03 pm ET

Oh we all know Republicans can do no wrong! It was Clinton's fault!

gopher   March 11th, 2009 1:02 pm ET

Any mention of diapers?

mb-texas   March 11th, 2009 1:02 pm ET

wow who is this man?he should go back to Louisana and settle
down.not use to authorties thinks he is above being a regular
customer.dare anyone to question him.

Grace   March 11th, 2009 1:02 pm ET

This CLOWN needs to get the BOOT right out the door. Republicans are really something else. They are quick to attack and criticize everyone else, but in reality they are the TRUE DEVILS. They certainly NEVER practice what they preach!!

Residents in Louisiana should show this jerk the door YESTERDAY!!!!

JOSE IN NORTHRIDGE   March 11th, 2009 1:01 pm ET

DO,,,,,,,LIKE,,,,,,,,OBAMA,,,,,,,,,,DOES,,,,,,,,,,,BLAME,,,,,,,,,BUSH

cmc   March 11th, 2009 1:00 pm ET

couldn't he have taken a later flight? Is this a misunderstanding or grand standing? Kinda like Hostetler from Indiana who "forgot" he had a gun in his briefcase at the airport, several yrs ago!

Maggie from Virginia   March 11th, 2009 12:59 pm ET

You got it Brian... Right after being humiliated and strip searched.

jim   March 11th, 2009 12:59 pm ET

Senator Charles Schumer had a similar incident last year in New York

ray ray   March 11th, 2009 12:58 pm ET

Democrat Eric Schultz says,

"Sooner or later Senator Vitter should learn how to control himself.."

Riiiight. If Vitter would only abuse his authority like Nancy Pelosi who demands the military provide her a manned aircraft whenever sh wants... he'd have a lot less stress at the airport!!

Seriously... Does Nancy think she's the President and have her own fleet of planes???

katiec   March 11th, 2009 12:58 pm ET

Another example of a politican overestimating his importance and power. Your report, CNN, was a little kinder than others I have read.

P. D.   March 11th, 2009 12:57 pm ET

Vitter is an embarrassment. Why didn't he resign when he was discovered in the notoriuos Madam's black book? I can't beleive he still runs on religious issues when he was busted. Talk about hypocrisy! And if this did happen the way the Roll Call reported it, why wasn't he arrested? If was you or me, we would have been thrown in jail.

Laverne   March 11th, 2009 12:54 pm ET

Yeah right, I guess your phone number accidently appeared in a known madam's black book too huh?

Brian   March 11th, 2009 12:54 pm ET

An ordinary citized would have been arrested and jailed.

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