WHO: Andy Harris, Republican candidate for Congress in the 1st District
WHAT: OK, we like Harris, but this time he’s gone too far. He’s accusing his Democratic rival, Frank Kratovil, the Queen Anne’s state’s attorney, of dropping charges against child molesters whose lawyers contributed to his campaign. He’s using robo-calls, fliers and news releases to spread this foul rumor to as many voters as possible. In the case Harris alludes to, Kratovil convicted the abuser on two counts, but had to drop 15 charges because of lack of evidence. That’s a pretty common occurrence. Prosecutors usually charge on everything they can think of in cases like that one and some charges get dropped. It happens.
WHY IT’S A BAD IDEA: If nothing else, Kratovil is a tough prosecutor. Do what you have to do to get your point across, but there’s no valid reason to run a dirty campaign. Fight fair, and may the best candidate win.
WHERE TO VENT: andyharris.com
Today’s dim bulb: Do you take credit?
Just because the economy is tanking and you have no money does not mean you should rack up credit card debt. The current U.S. credit card debt is about $900 billion. Haven’t we learned our lesson from the mortgage crisis? If you can’t afford it, don’t buy it.
Today’s quote
“It’s an underground gambling economy that is cheating places like Baltimore County out of needed tax revenue — money to pay for education, health and public safety.” — Maryland Comptroller Peter Franchot speaking about the proliferation of gambling devices in the state that are licensed for “amusement” and used illegally.
