The Clintonian Art of Apology

Why does this sound familiar?

Since last week, when Senator Durbin made his comments about the treatment of the inmates in Guantanamo, both Republicans and Democrats have suggested that the remarks were ill-advised and outrageous.

Now, after more pressure to do so, Durbin issued what has been generally considered an "apology":

"Some may believe that my remarks crossed the line, to
them I extend my heartfelt apologies."

Bill Clinton couldn't have said it better.

Once again, a Democrat skirts the issue by placing the onus of responsibility on those "who may believe his remarks crossed the line."

It's like the bully who beats you up and instead of apologizing for picking on you, instead tells the teacher that he was sorry you got hurt (and not for actually hurting you). Or his getting mad at you because he got in trouble when the teacher discovered why you were bleeding on his carpet.

The Clinton's were famous for this kind of back-handed apologizing. Unfortunately, these kinds of apologies are neither heartfelt of even honest. All that these mean are "I'm sorry I got caught."

Senator Durbin should not be excused for his remarks, whether they offended anyone or not. The very fact he said them in the first place shows just how remarkably unfit he is to serve as a U.S. Senator.

For that he needn't apologize. He should resign.