Wonder why they lack respect?

As the details of New York Representative Anthony Weiner's indiscretions continue to emerge, fellow Democrats are torn between distancing themselves from the wreckage or circling the wagons.  It appears Congressman Charlie Rangel (D-Vious) chose the latter option.  I found his defense of Weiner amusing:

Weiner did pick up support from U.S. Rep. Charles Rangel, a New York Democrat who was censured by the House last year for ethics violations.   ((What IS it with New York??? -- Jemison))
Rangel suggested that other members of Congress had done things more immoral than Weiner.
Rangel said Weiner "wasn't going with prostitutes. He wasn't going out with little boys."

True... it was Barney Frank (D-Ranged) that went out with a prostitute.  He's still in office, too, despite chairing the House banking subcommittee (you know, the folks that should have headed off the subprime mortgage problem).

And while Weiner appears not to have flirted with Congressional page boys, plenty of others--from both sides of the aisle--chose that option.

All in all, it's little wonder Congress--and politicians in general--is habitually held in low esteem.  I mean, with a history like this, no wonder we're, um, screwed.