By spending tens of thousands of dollars to defend the (mis)conduct of Sen. John Ensign, not only do the CEOs of Las Vegas Sands and Wynn Resorts appear to condone it, they open themselves to questions about their own views on business ethics. Would they approve of Ensign-like shenanigans within their own executive suites? With Ensign benefactor Sheldon Adelson‘s company presently under investigation to answer the question of whether or not it’s running a rogue operation in China, this is a very unpleasant thought to try and sleep upon. Many other casino executives may have felt “there but for the grace of God” twinges of sympathy for ex-Nevada Landing manager Ensign — but they didn’t feel compelled to make big-buck donations to the cause of getting his butt out of a self-inflicted sling. Why did Sheldon & Steve consider it imperative to, in effect, proclaim “You’re our kind of guy”?
We could hang around for an answer but I suspect we’d be better off waiting for Mr. Godot to keep his appointment.
The Harder They Come, The Harder They Fall, One And All… Once again, thanks to S&G for dredging up this silt. Count me as a “Family Values” Progerssive. I simply can’t excuse cheating on your spouse under any circumstances, and paying hush money afterwards is pure sleaze. Stevie and Shelly hitched their wagons to the Ensign Express, and now the ticket puncher is coming around thanks to a sharp blogger.