"... what could hurt McAllister is that family values and Christian faith were a large part of his platform." You think?

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Political scientist: Affairs no longer kill careers
By Greg Hilburn, April 9, 2014

Political scientist Joshua Stockley said America has gradually become more tolerant of its politicians’ indiscretions and believes 5th District U.S. Rep. Vance McAllister has a chance to survive his tryst with a former married staffer.

Stockley, a professor of political science at the University of Louisiana at Monroe, spoke to The News-Star’s Editorial Board onWednesday.

“The fact that we haven’t heard any prominent politician or leader call for (McAllister’s) resignation has shown how our culture has changed,” Stockley said. “Today’s indiscretions aren’t automatic career killers.”

He cited former President Bill Clinton and U.S. Sen. David Vitter, R-La., as prominent politicians who have overcome infidelities.

“President Clinton left more popular than when he took office, and Sen. Vitter is considered the front-runner in the next Louisiana governor’s race,” Stockley said.

But Stockley said those who survive like Clinton and Vitter “quickly say they made a big mistake and ask for a second chance. Individuals who fight the allegations tend to end their political careers,” he said.

He said McAllister’s political viability in the future also will depend on whether the scandal ends now, saying if more infidelities surface the congressman could be finished.

Stockley said what could hurt McAllister is that family values and Christian faith were a large part of his platform.

“When you have such a pronounced emphasis on faith and family you set yourself up for a great fall,” he said.

Stockley said McAllister’s scandal will likely create significant competition for the incumbent’s seat during the November election.

“There’s definitely some chatter now with people making calls to donors and supporters,” he said. “Can anybody reasonably generate the money and grassroots support so quickly? It will be a tall task.”
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