Utah explores the 'forgiveness factor' in politics

The holiday season is a "kind, forgiving, charitable, rather pleasant time," said Charles Dickens in "A Christmas Carol." Recent events in national and local politics are testing Americans' and Utahns' willingness to forgive the peccadilloes of leaders and candidates. At the risk of being labeled Scrooges, we explore the "forgiveness factor" in politics.

GOP presidential candidate Herman Cain ended his campaign after accusations of sexual harassment and an extramarital affair. Conservative voters remain upset with Mitt Romney for decade-old "flip flops." Yet Newt Gingrich is topping the polls because voters are forgiving his adulterous past and numerous policy reversals. Why the inconsistency?

Pignanelli: "It's far easier to forgive an enemy after you've got even with him." ~ Olin Miller

Cain provided a great service to this country — by illustrating in a clear manner how a politician should NOT respond to controversy. If the pizza magnate had disclosed early that there were issues with employees and a mistress — but had received forgiveness from his wife and family — he could ask the same from voters. Without the dodges and weaves to avoid accusations (real and perceived) he would be the established front-runner for the Republican nomination.

Conservatives remain suspicious of Romney because his articulations of recent position changes are made without conviction. Gingrich exposed and then embraced his foibles long ago, while begging forgiveness. He has been all over the issue map, but his enthusiasm for the newest stance instills confidence.

Further, Gingrich distracts potential barbs by throwing verbal grenades against conservative foes: the liberal establishment, the media and President Obama. In the political world, his support from GOP voters IS consistent behavior.

Webb: It's all about timing, sincerity, personality and likability. The career of Bill Clinton is proof that major mistakes don't have to be fatal. His campaigns survived serial "bimbo eruptions" and his presidency withstood major policy changes, a sexual relationship with a White House intern, outright lies, betrayal of his high-profile wife and intense late night TV jokes.

A lesser politician would have been destroyed. Clinton today enjoys status as a senior statesman, beloved in some circles. He was warm and likeable enough that his flaws made him seem real, and many voters forgave him.