May 1, 2008...9:28 am
Manchin Doesn’t Understand Seriousness of WVU Scandal
West Virginia Governor Joe Manchin doesn’t understand.
For the past three years, Manchin has done an admirable job leading the Mountain State. However, when it comes to understanding the seriousness of the WVU-Heather Bresch Scandal, Manchin has left a lot to be desired. In fact, one has to wonder if he understands that this does not just affect the reputation of his daughter, Heather Bresch, but also the reputation of the school officials, West Virginia University, and higher education in West Virginia.
We can give Manchin a pass for wanting to protect his daughter and friend, WVU President Mike Garrison, from media scrutiny saying things like,
“I just think it’s wrong to go into this vigilante mode and throw everything out. If mistakes were made fix it.”
However, when comments like this next one are made we begin to question Manchin’s understanding of the seriousness of this scandal.
Why is it being driven by an out-of-state newspaper? What’s their purpose and reasoning? Why the out-of-state newspaper hasn’t printed all the FOIA information that’s now coming out and showing some facts.
The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette is not the ones at the center of the scandal. The Pittsburgh newspaper just broke the story. Manchin here is attempting to use the old ploy of protectionism to deflect criticism of his administration and those he supports, attempting to place the blame on others.
This is typical play in the Manchin playbook. Remember, Manchin blames agents for Rich Rodriguez leaving West Virginia University for Michigan.
West Virginia University is in the midst of a serious scandal that attempts to damage the school’s academic reputation. This is not the time for silly comments placing the blame on the media. Mistakes were made. Favors were given to someone who is both politically connected and an employee of one of the institution’s top financial backers (Mylan, Inc.).
The scandal is already having financial impact at West Virginia University as donors are starting to pull back contributions to the institution.
If it was up to Manchin, he would just have you cancel your subscription to the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette.
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