Wexler going back to Colbert, despite previous controversy
copyright © 2008 Betsy L. Angert
Trend-setter and teacher Congressman Robert Wexler may have mentored many a freshmen class of Representatives. Well into the future, the newest Congressmen and women will study the mistakes that might define an earlier Wexler performance. Certainly, Robert Wexler did. Upon reflection, his trials helped him to acquire great knowledge. The Democrat from Boca Raton, Florida learned his lessons well. He illustrates why, as retired Major League Pitcher Vernon Law attests, "Experience is a hard teacher because she gives the test first, the lesson afterward." |
In 2006, Comedian, Stephen Colbert delivered a pitch. Robert Wexler, swung and missed, although, then he felt as though the effort was a glorious home run. It was after the replay, in front of a less than receptive audience that Robert Wexler realized his standing ovation would be rescinded.
Wexler got into trouble for following the host's instructions to repeat statements that could doom the politician's reelection if his 2006 race were contested. Those statements included "I enjoy cocaine because it's a fun thing to do." At Colbert's urging, he said he enjoys prostitutes "because it's a fun thing to do - much like cocaine."
"If you combine the two together, it's probably even more fun," he said.
The day after the show, stories hit the mainstream media - including The Associated Press and NBC's "Today Show" - characterizing Wexler's appearance as a genuine admission of the use of cocaine and prostitution. On the following night's show, Colbert took the unprecedented move of refuting the news accounts and defending the congressman.
House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.), then the minority leader, issued a verbal warning discouraging other lawmakers from going on Colbert's show. Rep. Rahm Emanuel (D-Ill.) made a similar statement as Democratic Caucus chairman to freshman Democrats at the beginning of the 110th Congress.
Undeterred and proud that he is open to erudition, Robert Wexler decided he would place himself in a precarious position once again. Congressman Wexler said of his initial effort, "he harbors no hard feelings." Indeed, the incredible Representative said "he knew what he was getting into before he sat down for the interview."
The wise and wondrous, Congressman Wexler extolled praise upon those some see as his nemesis'. Colbert's and Jon Stewart's "The Daily Show" provides "a method of political communication that is very powerful and going to be more powerful."
With that in mind, Robert Wexler again chose to take the stage. He spoke with Stephen Colbert on Thursday, June 26, 2008. The determined and courageous Representative studied his earlier examination. Mister Wexler evaluated the "tests" others took under the tutelage of Mister Colbert. Then, he concluded, he could again enter the fray and rise above it. After all, he is a fire-breathing Liberal who not only survives, he thrives . . . just as he did in this recent command performance. Well done Congressman Wexler!
Robert Wexler Resources . . .
|
Subscribe to Site [RSS]
