Gov. Bob McDonnell: Separation of purse and state
By: Dr. Samori Swygert
We are familiar with the phrase, “a separation of church and state”. This phrase is intended to differentiate and demarcate religious ideology from governmental affairs.
However, we still manage to blend and incorporate religion into the political and judicial arena. This is evidenced by the swearing in of the president on a bible, court oaths on a bible for testimonies, the printing of “In God We Trust” on American currency, and the quote of “one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all” during the Pledge of Allegiance.
So although “a separation of church and state” is espoused, we still manage to operate with a kind of hybrid influence of church within governmental affairs.
Well what about the “separation of purse and state”? Recently, Virginia Republican Governor Bob McDonnell and his wife Maureen were found guilty of several charges of political corruption. It’s reported that the prominent political family were the willful recipients of hundreds of thousands of dollars, luxury items, trips, shopping sprees and showered with other posh pleasantries from a wealthy vitamin supplement company owner (Johnnie R Williams, Sr).
The jury found him guilty on 11 of the 14 counts against him. It’s reported that he plans to appeal the convictions, and that he may not receive the fullest extent of his punishment, but he faces well over a decade in prison for his guilty verdicts.
My thoughts
I think this is nothing new or novel. I feel this culture of corruption is rampant and more pervasive than America admits. The problem is the secrecy, power, and influence that prevents more politicians from facing charges. I’ve written several articles about the overreaching of corporate influence into politics. Many people are aware that there are lobbying groups, and that politicians must raise funds for campaigns.
However, where is the fine line drawn, who tracks the integrity of corporate-political activities, and who blows the whistle? A fiduciary obligation is inextricably linked between the American Citizen and elected officials to conduct political affairs with honesty and integrity. Once we permit corporations, wealthy elite, and personal obligations to mitigate legislative policy, we’ve effectively compromised our system of democracy that we champion globally.
There is no place for this kind of misconduct in politics. This happens on a frequent basis, but who can pinpoint it?
Lastly, I think this is an important lesson to a lot of our young black students in college and early stages of their careers that wish to pursue a career in politics. Do not compromise your integrity for the allure of cash, luxury, and prestige. Your dignity and legacy should never be for sale. There is a litany of politicians that have succumbed to greed and lust for luxury. This has affected both African American and White politicians. Work hard, keep your nose clean, and represent your electorate with the best of your abilities. You will succeed, you will go down in the annals of history, and leave a legacy to be marveled.
Governor McDonnell will be sentenced in January 2015, his family has been crippled, and his reputation has been permanently tarnished. This is the perfect cautionary tale of, the separation of purse and state.
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