The American public owes John Edwards a “thank you”. The people were spared the “stand-by-your-man” moment. It is the scene where the dutiful wife stands by the husband’s side while he delivers a heartfelt public apology. Perhaps, Senator Edwards recognized that having an ill wife, who is battling cancer, by his side would not help the situation.

Then, the scenario is almost text book:

• a contrite public statement
• the obligatory television interview
• the scripted phrases for television
• the promise of working to be a better person

It is a familiar play, with only the cast of characters changed. However, there are the inevitable slip-ups. For example, there is the statement that the liaison happened while Elizabeth Edwards’ cancer was in remission. Huh? Does that make a difference?

There is so much involved in that statement. It delivers a message of ‘I-am-not-totally-a-bad-guy’. - There is a slickness to such statements. It is exploitative. It lacks candor. It echoes of the “same old / same old”.

Is John Edwards’ political career finished? - It is doubtful. The public loves the story of redemption. Even the most egregious acts can find redemption. For example, Jane Fonda went from American traitor to international exercise guru. In the process, she made millions of dollars. And John Edwards is following the apology formula almost perfectly. Besides, Senator Edwards knows are no high expectation of politicians anyway.

Catherine Forsythe