Conflict of Interest?

Posted on | August 7, 2010 | 2 Comments

In the crowded, and ridiculous, CD 3 race here in Arizona…

Ben Quayle sent out a campaign mailer featuring adorable little girls. Vernon Parker, or his mouthpiece, went media crazy accusing Quayle of “renting children” to appear to be a family man. It was a ridiculous attack, especially since the girls are his nieces, but it got people talking. Not a direct hit, but enough to get Parker some neutral press. (I personally thought it made Parker look petty, but others disagreed)

Quayle followed up with a press release that pointed to problems Parker has had with various ethical complaints – saying that, because of his history, Parker would “become a national poster boy” for unethical politicians.

In a move that is SO tone-deaf and self-defeating that I am doubting the loyalty of Parker’s campaign staff, they sent out a press release alleging racism. Really. And to highlight the absurdity of the claim even further, someone thought to complain that “poster boy” was racist and offensive, while completely ignoring how offensive it should have been to be accused of ethics violations.

Accusing Quayle of renting kids kept Parker’s name out there, and even got some national attention. The completely ludicrous and embarrassing charge of racism undid that gain – and made Parker a laughing stock.

My suggestion to Vernon Parker: Look into your staff and their loyalties. Is it possible that one or more of them are on someone else’s payroll? Because they sure don’t seem to be working for you.

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