Sometimes as a blogger, I walk a delicate tight rope. I have different standards when it comes to sources. I will use anonymous sources if I know they are reliable, sometimes that fails me.
I heard a lot of things surrounding what happened with State’s Attorney Aaron McGowan. I did a little digging around on my own to. Much of what I read in the AG’s report turned out to be what I heard, so I wasn’t surprised. Some of the gossip I heard was absolutely untrue. This is why I struggled with saying anything until there was more ‘public’ information. I have also known McGowan for almost 20 years. I wouldn’t consider him a ‘friend’ but he has always been cordial with me, so I didn’t feel a need to dig up a bunch of crap about him before a public investigation was released.
Alcohol abuse is NOT a laughing matter, and I hope he gets help, it’s just unfortunate it had to go this far.
I think when public officials are faced with personal difficulties in their lives, it’s best to be transparent and honest with constituents about it, ASAP. I guess it goes back to my feelings about open government. A lot of issues can be resolved much quicker if you just own up to them, apologize and move on.
Now if we can just pass that sentiment to our president.