Nappaquiddick

I wish I could claim that title, but I stole it from William Saletan at Slate.  In case it got by you, U.S. Representative Patrick Kennedy followed in his father's footsteps by smashing his car up under suspicious circumstances, though with somewhat fewer fatalities involved.  Just add water.

His explanation at present is: "Hey, I was using drugs.  But at least I wasn't drinking."  He now claims he was "sleep driving" under the influence of sleeping pills.  But drinking was almost certainly what he was doing before he started his car but forgot to turn the lights on.  Capital Police report smelling alcohol, but a superior officer intervened and Kennedy was not given a breathalyzer test.  Being a Kennedy doesn't mean never having to say you're sorry, but it does mean never having to say it in court.  See Michelle Malkin for more. 

I don't blame PK for taking advantage of his family immunity to the laws (I wish my dad had that kind of clout), or for having one too many before he hit the road.  There but for the grace of God and my wife . . .   But I am offended by his heroic struggle with disease act.  Here's my transcript of his public remarks:

Over my fifteen years in public life I felt a responsibility to speak honestly and openly about the challenges I have with addiction and depression.  I have been fighting this chronic disease since I was a young man and have aggressively and periodically sought treatment so that I can live a full and productive life.  I struggle everyday with this disease, as do millions of Americans.  I have dedicated my public service to raising awareness about the chronic disease of addiction and have fought to increase access to care and recovery supports for the many Americans forced to struggle on their own. 

Well, what we have here ladies and gentlemen is a true Achilles of substance abuse.  What an admirable fellow!  But there is nothing heroic about changing your story by the hour, and then taking refuge from reporters in the Mayo Clinic.  But look at the bright side, Pat.  At least for now the DME railroad won't disturb your recovery process.