u235

I don't doubt that NYC Governor Paterson used his influence to try and sway justice. It wouldn't be the first, nor will it be the last time someone with power decides to use a little of it in an extracurricular way. In this case it was to help out a friend of his, a guy who found his way up from the tough streets into the suit-wearing halls of power.

Too bad that guy was an asshole, and the Paterson's nearsightedness in bailing out his buddy cost him the chance to run for governor in the next election.

The governor’s withdrawal came less than two days after The New York Times reported that his administration had intervened in the episode involving Mr. Johnson, 37, who was accused by a longtime companion of assaulting her on Halloween.

It's not a race thing, and it's not a gender thing. It's simply the fulfillment of the urge to make people like you. Most of the time it's a benign thing, for example complimenting someone or paying them attention. But for most people in power the choice to use their position to "help" becomes almost irresistible, especially when it's someone that works for them. "Look, I'm taking care of my own. Now I expect your loyalty in return."

Paterson fucked up. His friend fucked up. Well at least they'll have that friendship, even if they're both going to be out of a job.