What is it with powerful men in politics (and business) and sexual harassment? Bill Clinton, Anthony Weiner, and now Herman Cain are just the tip of the iceberg.  Despite the fact that, more often than not, these inappropriate situations come to the public light, it still happens.  And then, if the situation itself does not cause enough embarrassment, they lie about it or try to belittle and cast doubt on the person harassed. 

Now, Herman Cain following the example of many before him, is attempting to obfuscate the allegations of sexual harassment and scrutiny that has followed.  However, he’s not very good at it.  One moment he says he knows nothing about it, later he indicates there may have been an agreement made to deal with something possibly inappropriate.  Not a settlement, but an agreement. 

So where does this leave Mr. Cain’s presidential run?  I doubt that his base will turn tail because of this.  Those on the outside considering his campaign, may be turned off by the allegations.  Yet, it seems that this type of behavior has simply become common place amongst many running for, or in, office.  Does this make it acceptable? Do politicians and other in positions of power have a moral responsibility?  I believe that if we allow the moral standard to lapse, then we are also subject to allow other values to slide.  We enter a slippery slope that may lead to government being run by men and women who more likely represent mob bosses than upstanding leaders.  Or maybe… that’s where we already heading?!