But that's not what happened. After pleading guilty, Craig's legal options were nil. It's clearly explained in the petition he signed and is dated Aug. 1, 2007. But he's also lost in the court of public opinion. His Republican political cronies scattered to the winds once news broke regarding his legal problems. After further contemplation, Craig decided not to return to the Senate.

Craig, in offering a carefully crafted "intent to step down" statement on Sept. 1, didn't do himself many favors. He should have stepped aside as soon as Idaho Gov. C.L. "Butch" Otter could appoint a successor. He has repeatedly insisted he is not gay. A few days later, his children appeared on a national morning TV show to reiterate that he is not gay. I don't care either way. I'm more troubled by the fact that he demonstrated such poor judgment that he kept his legal problems under wraps and didn't seek legal counsel.

Craig is right about one thing. He has no control over what people will believe.

Because of that, it's wise to keep all your legal options on the table. Particularly when you insist that you're innocent.

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Marjorie Cortez, who wonders how many other Larry Craigs may be out there, is a Deseret Morning News editorial writer. E-mail her at marjorie@desnews.com.