Tuesday, January 29, 2008

The Muskogee Phoenix Editorial: Wise move to resign

The Muskogee Phoenix Editorial
January 29, 2008


Wise move to resign

Lance Cargill did the right thing, but from his comments, he still doesn’t quite get it.

Cargill, who resigned as speaker of the House on Monday, said he was stepping down from the post rather than let the GOP agenda get buried beneath his personal problems.

Cargill, R-Harrah, who is in his fourth term as a state representative, was entering his second year as leader of the House.

But after revelations of failure to file state income tax returns and late property tax payments for six years on his business, along with a state ethics investigation into donations to his campaign, Cargill resigned as speaker.

His resignation was appropriate, but not just because of the media attention his personal problems attracted. His personal problems are the problem, and they raise questions about accountability and leadership.

Leaders are asked to follow a higher standard, and for that, we make no apologies.

Yes, people are people, and they make mistakes. However, Cargill’s mistakes, personal problems and questionable actions compounded within a short period.

Naturally, the question arises, is this a person who has the ability to inspire others and make fair decisions?

This has nothing to do with speculation about Cargill and whether he broke any campaign ethics laws.

This has to do with what we know about Cargill. While he has shown a willingness to lead and a penchant for innovation and change, his example as a leader is sorely wanting.

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