The True Crime Committed by John Edwards
The Federal Court has decided to indict John Edwards on using campaign funds to hide his mistress and child during his run for the presidency. He claims innocence, and says he can prove that he did not commit a felony. What he does admit is that he made a big mistake that hurt many of his love ones. I accept that he acknowledges his actions of human misconduct. What I don’t understand is what caused him to do so. There seems to be a never-ending list of male politicians cheating on their wives. While all have certain elements of betrayal and sadness, John Edwards story is very different to me. Why? There is only one reason. His wife was Elizabeth.
Elizabeth Edwards had beaten cancer once before. It returned during her husband’s run for president. Instead of backing away from the race, the couple decided to pursue his ambition and desire to become our national leader. I can share from experience that nothing is easy when you are undergoing cancer treatments. The fatigue, the weakness, the hair loss, etc.,all take a toll on the mind and body. Despite this, Elizabeth had the strength to stand with her husband while he went after a dream.
What was the payback for this support? He has affair with a staffer, who later had his child. He claims he hid the fact to spare his family. After hearing interviews and reading articles, I believe it had more to do with the election than his family. Why would he go to such lengths otherwise? Did he really believe this story would never surface? This was the thinking of a man who wanted to be president.
Elizabeth Edwards was a strong, intelligent woman. Her first role in life was mother to her children. A role she cherished to the end. She wrote books, shared her stories,and helped those who were going through similar difficulties. She testified before senate committees on issues of importance,and appeared to be as down to earth as anyone in her position. The crime John Edwards committed is what he did to her and his children. A crime he will have to live with forever.
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