WASHINGTON (CNN) – The chair of the Senate Ethics Committee said Sunday that a preliminary investigation has begun into the conduct of Nevada Republican Sen. John Ensign.
Ensign admitted earlier this year to an extramarital affair with a married campaign staffer. A recent report by the New York Times suggests that Ensign went to great lengths to aid the staffer’s husband, who also worked as an aide in Ensign’s Senate office, and, in the process, may have encouraged the possible violation of Senate rules regarding lobbying.
“I can’t discuss this with you other than to say that there’s a preliminary investigation going on,” California Democratic Sen. Barbara Boxer told John King on CNN’s State of the Union. “And we will look at all aspects of this case as we do whenever there’s a case before us and try to get to the bottom of it as quickly as we can in fairness to all.”
Asked about the specific issues the investigation is looking into, Boxer said she was not permitted by Senate rules to do so.
Asked whether Ensign could serve effectively with an ethics investigation pending, fellow Republican Sen. John Kyl of Arizona said he would “wait and see what happens” with the Ensign investigation.
From CNN Politics
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Of course there is an investigation. That's the only thing the Democrats can agree on. Guess the leadership in the House, Senate and 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue is not what the media want us to believe. A Democratic controlled Senate, House and White House can't get anything through. Blame the Republicans! Look at yourselves first.
This is a typical Democrat ploy to shift attention from our Nation's most pressing issues (Afghanistan, Healthcare, Iran, economy etc. Please STOP the partisan politics and DO SOMETHING!
America is sick and tired of the hypocracy in Washington! Where is the Liberal outcry for the outlandish attacks from Alan Grayson this week? Where is the Democrat outrage re: John Edwards?
Americans are disgusted with Washington beaurocrats!
Wow. If only John Edwards' own extramarital affair and unethical financial dealings received such media coverage.
Oh wait...he's a liberal. It's a non-issue.
Shouldn't Mrs. Boxer be more concerned with passing health care reform then witch hunting against republicans? Such ridiculous partisanship in Washington right now.
John Kyl of Arizona said he would “wait and see what happens” with the Ensign investigation.
If he goes to jail, Kyl will deny ever knowing the man. Otherwise, "That's my guy !"
just john and other republicans working together
Keith in Austin....
The trouble is they weren't outlandish attacks!!!
Alan Grayson spoke the truth and most(thinking) Americans know it!!!
The 'cons' and their insurance buddies can make a lot more money if we pay premiums and then die.
Are you really THAT stupid, or do you just go along with FAUX news because you don't like Obama.
Surely you would like cheaper healthcare....or maybe you love to pay for those CEO bonuses????
The outlandish attacks on health care, like pull the plug on grandma came from the ridiculous right. Our most pressing issues did not begin in January with Obama's inauguration. They have been there a long time waiting for the GOP to address them. Since that did not happen, I know that the democrats will work them out.
Ensign, just another Republican hypocrite.
Who cares! This is another diversion to keep off track the real issues .. illegal war, unemployment, no jobs in America everything being outsourced, nothing is made here anymore. DID YOU KNOW THAT TAX PAID FOR TOIL ROADS ARE LEASED TO OTHER COUNTRIES AND THESE OTHER COUNTRIES THEN RAISE TOLL FEES TO US.BUT WHO REPAIRS THESE ROADS? AND HOW CAN POLITICIANS SELL SOMETHING TAX PAID FOR? WHY ARE THEY SLOWING SELLING EVERYTHING IN THIS COUNTRY YET WE GET STUCK WITH THE BILL?
Its like a leased vehicle, you pay for everything but never own the vehicle.
Our news is so censored, Did you know there was a protest in Washington DC and in front of Blue Cross and Blue Shield headquarters with over 10,000 people. Didn't hear about that did you? But these nuts cases at the townhouse meetings and these politicians who can't keep their pants up is big news. Give me a break!
Spin republican bloggers spin! Ensign is a crook who tried to pay off the man whose wife he had an affair with. You'd be screaming for his resignation if he were a Democrat. The Republicans are no longer a legitimate political party because of your ridiculous bias. You will be relegated to the dust bin of history asthe 'Know Nothing Party Part II".
Yawn! So what else is new? Oh! another republican preaching good old conservative principals..and sleeping around!!! yawn..for his sake, I hope she was worth it
Barbara "don't call me Ma'am" Boxer will be out in 2010. California is sick of her and her antics and destroying California.
This guy should resign.
John Ensign, a Repub, being investigated for ethics violation(s)?
This is really a NO BRAINER!
A Repub with ethics?
I definately would expect john Kyl to say "wait and see..."
I think it odd that CNN would go to him for viewpoint on this story.
Keith in Austin: " Where is the Democrat outrage re: John Edwards?"
John Edwards is so popular with Democrats that he is the sitting Senator from Nevada . . . oh, wait! John Edwards holds NO elected office and JOHN ENSIGN is the family values Senator from Nevada whose Mommy and Daddy paid off his mistress and her family and is still in his Senate seat. Why would anybody find that the least bit odd?
I agree with Keith in Austin. This is all a vast left wing conspiracy to distract us from cleaning up the great piles of fecal matter left to smother our country as President Bush walked away from the White House.
The Liberals clearly held a gun to John Ensign's head and forced him to have sexual relations with his, now former, friend's wife. They then forced Ensign and his parents to give the woman, her husband and their son money, promotions, jobs, and let's hope not...influence over his voting record.
I do not think this man should have a vote on MY health care. Most of these people need to be replace.
I think the fuinniest thing (and the most disgusting) is that Ensign let his PARENTS pay off this woman to the tune of $96,000 in hush money. Wouldn't you think that if you are a 50 something US Senator and you are going to do somthing slimy like this that you would at least have the courtesy to pay the hush money from you OWN account? Republican Senate rule # 1: Pay for your OWN affairs out of your OWN bank account.
This is a story? There wasn't an investigation before, like when he was found to have been paying off the woman he was sleeping with and her husband? What do you have to do to start an investigation? Kill puppies on TV or something?
I just shook my head at how shameless and morally bankrupt Sen John Ensign (R-NV) isas I watched him smugly and arrogantly help to derail the 2 public health insurance option plans that were before the Senate Finance Committee last week.
Well, seeing how we can't prosecute Sen John Ensign (R-NV) for his sleazy actions, I suppose prosecuting him for the cover-up will have to do.
By the way, does Sen John Cornyn (R-Texas) really think that his being a deacon excuses him from actively participating in the cover-up?
Shouldn't he be investigated too?
Keith in Austin: You are ignorant. This isn't just a Republican problem. Both parties have dabbled in this area of extramarital affairs. But, come on. Someone violates the law and you want them to look the other way? Ensign belongs in prison. Along with his cronies Bush, Cheney, etc.
I find it amusing how easily people fall into the you versus us argument. If people would realise that politics is a cog in a machine that intentionally divides a populous. If people would only realise that they have the power, and can oust these "representatives". Then and only then will the government work for the people again. Unfortunately, we spend our time squabbling over inane and pointless topics, instead of holding our "leaders" accountable. This country will start progressing again when we tear down this childish left v right argument. You are all arguing over NOTHING. By arguing over nothing, you are playing their game. The only loser in the game are the people.
Humans are sexual and social creatures, so another politician... caught with "his" pants down... its hardly news anymore... what is news! is when they promoted the standard "do as I say, not as I do". One cannot have it both ways. Either accept we all are social and sexual beings, and that these false morals and values projected by certain elected and political elite are lies for the sake of control of is people. Yes we do need a rules, laws, and folkways for safety of all people, but these double standards should be the crime.
I think by now, everyone knows that all crooked Republicans are dishonest, lying crooks.
What hypocrisy!
I...I did not have sex with that women... When the most powerful man in the world has an extramarital affair in the Oval Office, lies to his wife, the country and purjors himself lying about it you Dems fall all over yourselves separate professional from personal.
Gimme a break!
And how are the ethics committee's findings on Charlie Rangel coming along – it's only been 2 years.
Oops – forgot he is a Democrat – and CNN forgot what asking questions about Democrats ethics violations is all about.
just shook my head at how shameless and morally bankrupt Sen John Ensign (R-NV) isas I watched him smugly and arrogantly help to derail the 2 public health insurance option plans that were before the Senate Finance Committee last week.
Well, seeing how we can't prosecute Sen John Ensign (R-NV) for his sleazy actions, I suppose prosecuting him for the cover-up will have to do.
By the way, does Sen Tom Coburn (R-OK) really think that his being a deacon excuses him from actively participating in the cover-up?
Shouldn't he be investigated too?
John Ensign has spent more time on his affairs than he has trying to help the people of Nevada. If he does not step down, Nevada needs to elect someone else in 2012. He is supported by casinos and crooked investors in Incline Village. Its time for this hippo Christian to go.
Why isn't Charles Rangel being investigated for his tax evasion which is being hushed up by the Democrats?
Let's just stop the nonsense about democrats and hypocrisy (some of you can't even spell the word correctly). Republicans have a total corner on that market and Senator Ensign is a prime example. They say they are for family values - wonder how they feel about the families of the over 4,000 Americans killed in the totally bogus Iraq war???? And can you name JUST ONE THING the republicans have cooperated on since President Obama took office????? Talk about partisan politics - they are the poster guys!!!!!
It is sad to see that Republicans are protecting Sen. John Ensign for what is clear to the common person. All you have to do is listen to Sen. John Ensign youtube videos comments about President Clinton’s impeachment. But no Republicans believe the rules should apply to them.
The truth is this guy was covering up something he knew was illegal and devastating for his political life. All I hear from Republicans is he country is in war, people are loosing job, etc. In other words, we shouldn’t worry about these Republicans ethics stories. I just call it “100% HYPOCRISY”
Kyl sounds like he doesn't want to comment on his buddy Ensign and usually that's a sign he's got something to hide also. I smell a coverup.
I hope they will also include Sen. Tom Coburn R-OK) in this investigation. What is a sitting US Senator doing taking part in a cover up of this affair and participating in negoitating the "settlement"???
Want to bet the Dems will get this though asap while the Rangel investigation has been going on for a year now and he refuses to give up his gavel.
Both sides (Dem. & Rep.) have proven that their extremes aka Liberals & Conservatives, are unhealthy for our nation in every aspect.
I would ask Americans on all sides to push for new rules associated with term limits, because it's a proven fact that career politicians become disassociated with the real issues, and then it becomes all about them. They loose their purpose by believing that it's all about them, and not about the 300 million Americans who are watching the process turn ugly, and vile. Americans deserve better, we don't want immature foot stomping, name calling, that leads their path to re-election. All of this at the expense of civility, and American pride, and I'm embarrassed by their behaviors. Grow up Washington.
If someone thinks that the power of the DC lobbyists is not behind a good percentage of our nation's problems, you'd better think again. Big business lobbies ( energy, health insurance, pharmaceuticals, etc) run this country aided by their bought and paid for politicians as evidenced by the Republican mentality that says NO to everything except what will benefit big business. The fact that some immoral politicians place themselves on the trading block because of their hypocritical life style only magnifies the problem. Ensign is a disgrace as is every other every other person who breaks their vows or oaths of office and makes themselves vulnerable to extortion. He should do the country a favor and resign.
Another family values Christain Republican – down the toilet as so many have gone before him.....that party is in serious deep doo-doo...
What took them so long. This has been out for awhile. If he were a democrat he would have been crucified by now.
Gee whiz,now all if a sudden we have rules in congress. I don't know
any of the specifics in this earth shaking event,other than God forbid
someone has broken the rules of the Senate. Give us all a break,
the rules in congress of either house is only in the minds of the folks
in the majority,be it dem ore repub. Thats what we voters get with
every party in or out of power. We need "CHANGE",bit not as it is be-
delt out. We want the Congress to be for the people,not their own
party's agendas. What does it take to do the peoples business. I
feel we as taxpayers and voters need to have some,"no" a lot of
justice from those who say they work for us. Time is running out on
this issue.
Keith in Austin:
The Democrats didn't screw the wife of his staff – he did. The Democrats didn't double her salaries when she was a member of two of his PAC's – he did.
The Democrats didn't double her husbands salary – he did.
The Democrats didn't pay her off – his family did.
and also – John Edwards is not an elected official – he is.
We need folks in Congress who have a dedicated resolve for the
people they represent. It is not apparent to most of us in regards
to this service that is so lacking from those who hold our lives and
Liberties in their hands.
This is becoming old hat. Don't these people who get elected to congress have anything better to do than indulge themselves in sex and money scandals? The whole congressional body needs an ethics overhaul.
Democrats cheat on their taxes and Republicans cheat on their wives. Given the ratio of stories in the press, I guess cheating on your wife is the worse offense.
instead of pointing the finger at Democrats because they didn't hold Ensign hand while he had his other hand out of his zipper is wrong. Democrat's don't baby sit Republicans.
I voted for Barack Obama and the current leadership in Congress and Senate. I'm glad to see them there, and hope they will succeed; however, I have to give credit where credit is due. The republicans rightly point out that the democrats are in charge, and lack the will to get anything done. That is a bona fide problem, and they will be out in 2010 if they don't get their act together before the end of this year. It's time to put down our differences and act on something for the good of the entire nation. Furthermore, that good has to be substantive change. I urge Congress and Senate to work in a bipartisan effort to accomplish that good. Set your corporate interests aside for a change and work for us. By the way republicans, if you think 2010 belongs to you, think again. We're tired of politics as usual, but that doesn't mean we're going to put the republicans back in charge. They were and are a large part of the problem. Finally, I think that Ensign is not a distraction. He should be fully investigated and probably serve some time. Edwards is scum. Grayson is probably right, but he shouldn't have used Congress as his forum and he should probably apologize.
It is a shame that some politicians believe they are above the law. This is yet another example. Sen. John Ensign will have to face up to what he has done. It is time to get the crooks out of Washington. Thank God we have responsible leaders in both houses of Congress and in the White House to help guide our country forward. My biggest hope is that we can move the Supreme Court away from the radical right slant it now has.
I feel that our elected senators and reps are not effective for us. Many times I have written to them with specific questions on matters that
were important,and I get a generic letter not even in answer to my
subject or reference to it. I know they have a thankless job. I also
know that they wanted the job. Once in office all the spin for us is
lost. We need someone,not just anyone to really do the work for us
that is right and just. We don't ask to much in my opinion. God,
family and country are the basics.
Could Congress do some work, please.
The Party of No Morales once again!
While the ivestigation on ethics is pending on John Cheater Ensign, this is not to SHIFT attention about Health Care Reform, or the WAR ,and the ECONOMY , with the SWIFT action of President Obama , has turn the TIDE to the POSITIVE. Barbara Boxer , is doing the RIGHT thing to a Senator ,that thinks he is ABOVE the law. Why do SOME people think that Republicans are not the cause for the America for being in this TOMB of DEBT, WAR, LIES, and bush – chenney almost AYBSS. HE should RESIGN, and will be soon taken down SHORTLY. This is not A BLAME game, it is FACTS. and while they are at it , Jon Kly should be investigated for being a CLOWN MORON..
Keith in Austin, hardly "typical" as Ensign's behavior is beyond the pale. He is entitled to "fair hearing" as is anyone. We've had a spate of GOP "blow ups" with personal behavior, but they're not alone.
I would also state that Nancy Pelosi and the House Leadership to remove Charles Rangel from his leadership posts until an investigation of his actions is completed. Only then will public respect for the Congress begin to improve.
Ensign should be removed and go far away...FAR, FAR AWAY.
Keith is Fed Up in Austin-How can credible politicians of either party focus on the issues and produce bills that take on our national problems when certain members can't put their state, let alone their country, before their own sordid pursuits? Perhaps frustration in their own lives would cause fed and keith to act like rodeo clowns, trying to distract the attention of an angry population, while a fallen congressman crawls through the manure, discarded Redman, and sawdust of the arena floor, seeking the shelter of the "your party is worse so ignore my crimes" gang. Any fool would know that Congress's own integrity, which at times is shaky at best, must be maintained as best as possible. If Senator Ensign is guilty of these alleged crimes, complete moral lapses as well as felonious behavior, he is the current issue. He is the blockage that needs to be removed by enema, since he seems unable to remove himself. The Congress need clear minds and bodies to do a difficult job. Call for this man to resign not for this country to ignore.
@ Keith in Austin,
There was plenty of Democratic Party outrage over John Edwards. He's a despicable cad.
What do you mean hypocrisy? The attacks from republicans, accusing President Obama of being a socialist, comparing him to Hitler (i.e. Congresswoman Virginia Fox and Congressman Pence), if anybody needs to learn the definition of hypocrisy it would be the Republicans.
If someone in the Republican Party had the guts to tell Beck, Limbaugh and Hannity to shut up then maybe you guys would receive a little more respect.
Gosh, Keith, you must have missed the liberal outrage at Edwards...he will never hold office again. We deplore this kind of behavior too...and Grayson should not have referenced the Holocaust, but otherwise, is telling the truth. 45,000 American citizens DIE in this country every year because their plans denied coverage, or they could not afford health care. Where is the hypocrisy in that? I realize the Republicans make their points with lies and exaggerations; I find Grayson kind of refreshing actually.
And this investigation must be done, as any other is done...the Congress will still be working on other things too. You expect that every member of Congress has just dropped everything to dig into Ensign's misbehavior? Not the way things work, just like the whole Congress is not focused on health care until an actual bill is before them, and they can't do anything about the wars either, without bills from the committees. I know, why don't you Google Schoolhouse Rocks: I'm a Bill and see how it works.
And Fed Up, so are we! The reason nothing is being passed is because it would be nice to have some actual AGREEMENT on what is passed, so the Dems are playing nice...too nice. They need to take a page from the Rove playbook and just ram things through.
And this is the man, who "knowing what is best for American families" is voting against everything in insurance reforms. I guess he needs the money to pay off his affairs.
It is all "EYEWASH" they want every one to think they are doing something....It is like Al Capone, investigating himself.. Let's see if we can FOOL THEM AGAIN TODAY.....
Jeez....have they nothing better to do than form committees to hash out past foul deeds? And then there's Rangel who actually did break the law yet his cronies sure are silent about that cheat. Term limits!!!
When is the ethics investigation going to begin on half of the democrats currently in the senate? and the president? oh wait, that's right, only the repubs are evil. I forgot. Democrats are guardian angels that do no wrong.
Ensign is a scurrilous low-life who bribed a husband cuckolded by him (What a piece of work he is, too) Ensign should resign now.
Its about time something was done. Enough of the shenanigans of him and rest of his conspirators for breaking laws, hiding the truth, and lying.
Oh, yeah, what's going on with the great Senator Larry Craig who was going to resign for his disgraceful conduct and admission of guilt, as well as family man Senator Vitter.
NOONE Republican or Demorat is above the law or from being held accountable for their conduct while in office. Particularly, when Senator Craig flashed his US Sentate business card to the interviewing officer in an attempt to get favorable treatment.
All of them are a disgrace and have not place in the US Senate. Examples must be set and offenders held accountable. After all, aren't these the same ones that claim if a "closet homosexual" serves in the military they could be subject to extortion by foreign governments? These Senators are no better.
Here we go again. It is not the government's business or anyone elses' what people do in their personal lives. Leave these people alone. They will answer when the great Judge has his day during 'JUDGEMENT DAY'.
Hey Fed Up....You call Alan Gray words of truth an outlandish attack? He is my new hero. I call racists republicans who draw signs of our President as Hitler and a monkey a disgrace beyond belief. republicans have been so good at lying for so many years that they believe it to be true. Move to another country if you can't respect the voice of the majority. Take your guns, your racism and judgement on others and get the heck out.
contract with america...
family values....
the moral majority...
what a laugh!
that's those republicans for you, folks!
Another politician messing around. Big deal. Democrats do it too. Think John Edwards, Bill Clinton, Jerry Hart, the Kennedy's, and the list goes on.
where is the outrage over john edwards, or grayson, what of the years of theaft and corruption of charlie rangle it has gone on for years and the democrats are too afraid to hold him responsiable because he spreads his money among them and knows too much. you guys are all guilty of deceit and are crooks and liarers. shame on you all you are supposed to be working for your country not to line your pockets.the democrats control everything and they have the congress throughout the bush years so stop the lying you made the mess of fanny mae and freddie mac when you didn't want to regulate it may be the public should see the videos again now that their eyes and ears have been opened now obama isn't such a god to everyone they will see who really caused the fall of these banks due to democrats and their pal acorn
"re there ANY republiCONS who aren't being investigated for something? What a 'values' party!!!
Most of them are in trouble for having extra-marital sex with the opposite(or even same) sex, and maybe even animals!!
I reiterate…..What a 'values' party!!!!"
Yeah, you're right .....that aren't any Dems who hid bribe money in their freezer or potential presidential candidates that knocked up another woman while his wife was fighting cancer. Yep, you're right.
About time. Add a few more to the list....both Repubs and Dems. I'm sick of the corrupt old boys/girls club in Washington. Clean house!
It is sad that John Ensign needed to enlist his parents to buy silence from his campaign staffer lover and her husband . It would not surpise me at all if he violated senate rules and I am glad that he may be potentially investigated . Why is it that Republicans can't seem to get the "family values " theme to be part of their personal lives ?
Those of us that live in Nevada know that John Ensign is not a very nice man and is very arrogant so I'm not surprised to find him in this position. Unfortunately, too many constituents care more about how a politician votes more than they care about his hypocrisy, ethics or the fact that he may have broke the law.
Ensign should resign and save himself the country and the party the embarrassment . It is a pity the morals and values they preach so vociferously they can't put it in to practise. if I was his wife i would bid him good bye long ago , HE IS MESS.
I'm all for investigating corruption and Ensign is an idiot. But when are they going to start to investigate the real corruption? When is anyone going to start looking into the relationship between GE and this administration? That relationship makes the Bush, Cheney, Haliburton love triangle looke like a summertime highschool fling. Come on America wake up, they are wasting our time with bickering between parties and ignoring the real corruption. If the healthcare bill passes GE is looking at making all sorts of money and no one is talking about it.
Re John Edwards- Unless you arehis wife or children, who cares? He is not an elected official and his political future is over. repeat-over. Sen. Ensign has allegedly conducted himself in an extremely dubious way. No, this isn't about the unseemly sex – try pay-offs to the family to keep it quiet. Maybe even using campaign funds. While in office. Get the difference?
You know things aren't looking good when even an ultrapartisan ideologue like John Kyl says he'll “wait and see what happens”.
I wouldn't worry if I was John Ensign, though. Rick Perry will soon take the title of "Most Disgraced Republican" when he's revealed to be the first US governor to have presided over the execution of an innocent man.
Whether a Democrat or a Republican there should be an intvestigation. I am also fed up with the blame and hate on both parties. If the shoe fits wear it.
This just show that all republicans are cheaters and hypocrites!
And yet were it a Democrat being investigated, the Republican commentators on this board would be throwing a fit. You clowns ran the country into the ground and were purged accordingly; get over it.
@Keith in Austin: which party's administration caused everything you mentioned to be an issue in the first place? Think before you type.
This is a disgrace to all of y ou who waiste valuable time to make partisan attacks and then quote the constitution to support the wrong.Keith in Austin, Edward was not a senator at the time his case was reported and he is facing a grand jury, i guess the Bill Clinton Affiar was a great Media stunt and not a partisan ploy.Well if you want the democrates to do something, they have to do it by the merit and throught the democratic process.Do you want them to stuck it down our necks?No thats is why i am an independent.Work with facts not by emotions you all, that is why America is behind mostindustrial nations in civility and responsibility.
mrs boxer oops senator boxer she needs to look into mr rangle especial o yes senator reid putting into a bill for health care exemption for nevade while i am at it how about ethics of mr graysonand the biggest is giving congress a rise while the average tax payer is struggled to find or keep a job.
Boxer and the Dem's wasting money on the investigation of a Republican? Not a big shocker... Once again, the Dem's are skirting their duty with this kind of crap when America is faced with more critical issue of simply surviving!!! I just hope Ensign was not a retired Military; you do remember how much she despises our Military women and men...
Peace
Dems demonizing Repubs and vice versa. Face it; this is what our 2 political party has turned into. People say "vote them out"; with what, more of the same?
These investigations against Republicans are seen by voters for what they are: a smokescreen for the democratic party's failure to use their majorities to actually do something for Americans. The backlash in the 2010 mid-term elections against democrats will be huge as a result.
And what took so long? I'm not in Washington and knew there was a reason to look closely when his parents paid the mistress a great deal of money. If this was a charity gift, please give them my name and address so they can donate to my cause- cause I am broke.
Go ahead with investigation of Ensign to determine if he did something wrong. Just explain why the esteemed Mr. Rangel from NY is not being investigated or censured for his known wrongdoing.
Yeah, the Republican "Family Values" theme now looks kind of stupid, doesn't it? Let's see what they cook up next, bacause NO ONE is going to believe that now.
I wonder if this is just an excuse to furthur delay the Ethics Committee "investigation" of Charlie Rangle and the way he's been breaking the law for over 10 years. Maybe the committee should also investigate sexual harrassment charges against David Letterman, too. CBS is a virtual wing of the Democrat Party, they could say it is an "internal investigation" All this, and the Dems still can't understand why they don't get any "bipartisan" help with health care reform.
I'm absolutely convinced that the people whining about how this is all Democratic partisanship were loudly decrying the Republican witch hunt of Bill Clinton during the 90s, because otherwise they would be complete and utter hypocrites. It would be nice if GOP partisanship would stay out of the way of investigating Ensign's alleged crimes, but I won't hold my breath.
As for the irrelevant raising of former Sen. John Edwards and Rep. Grayson, who have nothing to do with Ensign – talk about trying to distract from real issues!
Typical liberal hate without any attempt of rational thought. Thank-you for showing what being a liberal really is. Sick, pathetic, and corrupt.
Keith in Austin said: "This is a typical Democrat ploy to shift attention from our Nation's most pressing issues"
Where was Keith during the Clinton impeachment (where Ensign voted to have him removed for sex)? The war in Iraq? The Bush tax cuts?
Republicans have been doing this for decades. You're just not used to having it come back at you!
While there's enough marital infidelity to go around in both parties, the GOP leads the civilized, and probably the uncivilized world in hypocracy by beating their breasts during prayer groups and then doing the opposite of what they tell us God prohibits. Ensign, Vittert, Giuliani, Gingrich, and of course, that pill-popping, multiple marriage leader of the party, Rush Limbaugh are just the tip of the iceberg. Even Tom Colburn, their self-proclaimed moralist, is covering for the oyher guys, which makes him just as guilty.
None of you loudmouths have given a single reason for why Ensign shouldn't be thrown out of Congress for condoning extortion. Alan Grayson has nothing to do with John Ensign, and if you think that his act was disproved of by a majority of Americans, you're watching too much Fox.
I guess we resolved all the issues and the only problems left are the ones that are inside people’s underwear. Congratulations Democrats, we voted for you so you too could have a turn in bending over and sniffing butts. You learned well from the Republicans and Kenneth Star.
I’m just so sick and tired of most of you members of senate. What a bunch of worthless jerks you are.
Can we please just forget about affiars and get down to business?
This is disgusting that the Democrats are more concerned with something like this as opposed to the real issues......Afghanistan, Iran, crime in our cities, unemployment and the list goes on.
Perhaps the Democrats should be a little more concerned with Congressman Charles Rangel and a little less concerned with Sen. John Ensign!
The title "GOPer under investigation, Dem says" on the main page is pretty ridiculous. What happened is that the Senate Ethics Committee started to investigate Ensign, who may have tried to hush up an affair with illegal activity. Both parties should agree that Ensign's alleged behavior is shameful and unethical. The head of the Senate Ethics Committee is in a position to start an investigation.
So please change the title on the main page to make this not seem like a partisan witch hunt, which it is most definitely not. Ensign would get voted out of office in the next election anyway because of this scandal, hopefully he would lose the Republican primary.
Family Values at its best again in the GOP... they should really drop that and "Pro America" slogans
The GOP should have already asked Sen. Ensign to resign over his inappropriate use of the National Republican Senatorial Committee funds for his marital indiscretion.
Then again, Sen. Vitter is still allowed to remain in office after admitting illegal activity with prostitution. Is it any wonder why many Americans have left my former Republican Party?
Why do republicans write in and say we aren't allowed to look at or correct problems, because we ourselves have associates with similar problems?
If my aunt cheated on a test once, can I not point out that the person next to me now is cheating? If I once did not pay the correct amount of income tax, can I not vote against a corrupt politician who cheats on his taxes? How does saying, "but he did it too!" change the current situation? It's your wife and your constituents you are dealing with, not his.
And if someone does point out a problem, why do republicans feel like its ok to not address the actual problem, but instead make comparisons and redirect any responsibility or blame back onto the messenger? Don't they know that phrase....?
Why is it that democrats have partners and lovers and spouses all they want, and don't worry too much about it as long as people are adults and work things out? Yet republicans try to hide and subdue their sexuality and desires, and then get defensive when they are caught cheating....
And then rather than own their desires, and make the changes in their life to embrace who they are, why do republicans say it was just a mistake, they didn't really mean it, throwing everyone, including themselves under the bus? I'm just saying...
Big Deal Senator Dodd did back door handshaking with tax payer money and got away with it.
Want to talk about Obama and Acorn CNN?
Hey Repubs – it is normal to be able to chew gum and walk at the same time, I would hope a member of Congress could do many things at the same time. Especially investigate a few slimey politician hypocrites like Ensign. And I would think a punk who actually threatens marriages like Ensign would be a no brainer for the "Family Values" clan, or is that really just a political ploy like so many of us believe?
Funny how through eight years of deception and failure the Repubs want us to think the Obama administration who actually does things is not doing anything. Or is it that because the Obama admin are not fascist the Repubs don't see any benefit to working for the middle class?
I guess next they'll say gravity is false because it's not in the bible and just a theroy! hahahaha.
. . . and what about Rengel? Oh, never mind - he's a Democrat!
The only change we have received is a bigger government with more corruption. A cultural shift is needed so that these policians understand that they work for us. Expect all democrats to be voted out in the next elections.
Seems like the ONLY investigations that are newsworthy to CNN is when the GOP is investigated. Seems like you never find any stories related to the rampant problems of the democrat party. Suprise, suprise and yet Fox is the ones being called biased. Typical from CNN. No wonder you are always lose in the ratings. Wake up.
Hey DPS – yes, since women are so nurturing and relational and all, don't you just hate it how that makes them inherently more liberal?
They are completely ruining everything for those who want it to be "every man for himself"....! That whole 'letting them vote" thing was sooooo crazy!!
Just look at all these people helping each other and caring about each other and working together!! Thanks Senator Kyl for being so astute and saving us all from this certain hell of sentimentality.....
I'm going to send all my pennies to the Republican party right away. Especially to Senator Kyl and that nice Michelle Bachman woman. She seems very smart. And the little grandma congresswoman who explains how bad the President is. I really trust her.
But my favorite is the ones who live together in the church. That is sooo sweet that they pray together. Amen. Please pray for Senator DeMint on his upcoming trip to tell that third world leader how Jesus has a plan for the specially chosen leaders like himself and Senators Ensign and DeMint and Coburn. And also how the current President isn't really who he should listen to, but instead follow the masterplan of the grand visionists from the past like Mao and Hitler. I totally understand.
Totally.
Time to drop these dumb investigations. Did he break the law? It is obvious no one in Congress cares about ethics, so throw that out, too. If we look into sex cases all of the time, we will never get anywhere. Only thing that needs to be asked, was there sexual harassment? If not, drop the case and get Health care reform moving.
And I'm assuming as soon as this investigation finishes up, they'll begin the investigation in Charles Rangle?
I hate the GOP of today.
Here come the teabagging apologists, who always demand blood when it involves a Democrat.
The ethics committee is made up of members of both parties, so I don't know where some of the responders here get the idea that it's a Democrats vs Republicans thing.
This is ALL Obamas fault....I dont know how but give it some time and the GOP will find the right spin on it.
Maam you ought to worry about yourself and if you will be able to remain in power. You should watch how you treat people and show them respect no matter if they wear our countries uniform or are a invited black business leader.
The way I see it California will be kicking you out soon. And as a resident you will not get my vote.
The Democrats will do ANYTHING to get to the Republicans. What about Clinton getting a BJ in THE WHITE HOUSE. He lied and got away with it. What about John Edwards or the Murtha scandal. Need I continue.
It is just time to get rid of all of them on both sides of the fence. We citizens are not going to see eye to eye all the time and that's a good thing, but the one constant is absolute power corrupts absolutely and that is why we are where we are. Kick them all out and start again.
They should focus their attention more on Charles Rangel!!!
It's amazing.....if any of us in the private sector had even a SMIDGE of this scandal around us, we would be asked to, at minimum, take an unpaid leave of absence. But this clown will probably get away with this like so many of his right wing counterparts do. PATHETIC!
Hey, blue dress, as I remember there were impeachment proceedings instituted by all these sanctimonious Republicans.
Greed, corruption and indifference are qualities no party claims patent to my good citizens. Behind the theatrics, cheap rah-rah party affiliations, and the actors/actresses we elect to plunder the modest fruit of our slave labor, listen closely; the wind carries the tune of Nero's fiddle.
Exquisitely Shakespearean.
I think all members of Congress are grossly overpaid.
It is amazing that after all these years, one of the republican's defense is to still bring up Bill Clinton.
Ensign is a slime ball. Arrogant and shameful. A cancer in the midst of the Republicans.
So is the Appalachian Trail Governor.
And who said only Democrats had these types of scandals?... Larry Craig, Mark Sanford? Why should these guys be treated any differently that John Edwards (and HIS wife had cancer, what a jerk) or Kwame Kilpatrick and all these other guys? It doesn't matter what party they're from. It's the immoral act they committed. But this isn't something restricted to politicians. Our society as a whole no longer considers adultery a crime. The difference is these guys are also violating other laws. Aside from being terrible husbands and fathers. People don't really care so much about the affair, it's so common these days (unfortunately) but the least they can do is not use tax dollars or treasury money. Geez.
The only surprise here is that it isn't someone from South Carolina. Seriously, South Carolina must be sighing a breath of relief that it's finally not them. Sanford, then Wilson.
"Death Panel Sarah" is a Moron: I'm a liberal. We're not all sick, pathetic, and corrupt, and I resent being lumped together as though we're not individuals and Americans who love our country. We need to come together and figure out how to move forward, or there isn't going to be much left for us. The wealthiest 1% of our citizenry have robbed us blind, brought us to the brink of economic disaster, and used our tax dollars to bail themselves out, with an ok from the politicians they've bought off to ensure the status quo. And all we're doing is sniping at each other? While they laugh all the way to the bank. Oh wait a minute, they own the banks. Come on people, we have to get together, not tear each other apart. Our future depends on it.
What is to investigate other than the Mann Act and obstruction of justice, as well as the possible Nevada Gaming COmmisison repercussions fo rhis parents?
Republican Values Theme? What an idiotic comment. Corruption, and incidents of adultery have permeated both parties and have been in Congress and with some Governors (SC and NY), and even a President (Clinton). In my opinion, all those who violate any form of ethics regardless of their party affiliation should be investigated.
The investigations of all who have committed questionable acts whether it's Rangle or Ensign need to proceed. But instead of generalizing an entire party and blaming them for one person's indiscretions, remember the real issues that have only gotten worse:
- the amount of deficit has increased trillions of dollars more with no tangible results
- a new strategy of listening to the actual experienced military leaders in the field in order to effect a more decisive and immediate solution has yet to happen
- the strategy of kissing up to Muslim and European nations while holding inhibiting the funding and procurement of necessary systems to strengthen our nation's defense is only weakening this country's defense. Not the thing to do when you're at war. Read your history.
- the amount of people who have lost their jobs since the beginning of the year reached over 2 million people last month.
- and it didn't help that we tried to invite the Olympics to be hosted in a city known for political corruption, skyrocketing crime, and a city where teenagers have nothing else to do but beat each other to death or just stand around and record on cell phones. It would have been more inspiring to have already rebuilt the WTCs, and then invite the world to New York to see how that city and this nation has recovered from the attacks. Now that would have been inspiring and a true testament to our resolve.
Let's communicate to our Congressmen to stay focused on the real issues, get something done if they want to stay in office, and quit blowing up stories and blaming an entire party for one person's discretion. If a person is caught, just address it and take care of it, and get back to work. The American people want results of your work, they don't want to hear parties blaming each other and finding every little fault with each other. 2010 elections should be interesting.