The Age Of Irony
In my essay from February 17th, “What To Call Our Era?” I proffered the title: “The Age Of Irony.” In support of that appellation I decided that, from time to time, I would post short examples of same when the opportunity arose. Well, ladies and gentlemen, I didn’t have to wait long…
Over the past week, few Americans could have failed to notice the hullabaloo that has erupted around New York State Governor Andrew Cuomo. The Governor, who had, until VERY recently, been something of a liberal “saint,” as he “bravely” battled President Trump, the corona virus, and Republican State Representatives, all at once, has suddenly become persona non grata. It seems that Mr. Cuomo has been accused of sexual harassment by three separate women. In this day and age, he might as well have stabbed Nancy Pelosi in the heart, on live TV, with a dull knife.
Politicians, commentators and celebrities, from both sides of the isle, were quick to respond. In a judicious and measured comment, New York State Assembly Woman, Alessandra Biaggi, referred cautiously to the governor as a “MONSTER” (and demanded his immediate resignation). Ms. Biaggi, apparently, does not know what a “monster” really is. To clarify things for her, I’ll mention serial killer Ted Bundy who murdered at least 36 women – THAT’S a “monster.” Or serial killer Jeffrey Dhamer (who dispatched 17 victims and then ATE them) – now that’s REALLY a “monster.” Or, Adolf Hitler who managed to murder Twelve Million – that’s a CONSUMMATE “monster.” In comparison with these individuals, Andrew Cuomo is bush league, “monster wise.” And, I say this while not exactly being a big “fan” of the Governor. He may have been inappropriate, lecherous and even a bully, but “monster” he’s not. Which brings me to the irony at hand.
Cuomo must be BESIDE himself as he takes refuge in his domestic redoubt and contemplates the savage treatment he’s currently facing over his indiscretions – in comparison to the “kid gloves” treatment given to candidate (and now illustrious President) Joseph Biden FOR EXACTLY THE SAME BEHAVIOR. Nothing that Cuomo has been accused of, at least to date, is anything worse than what creepy Joe Biden has done, on multiple occasions, IN FRONT OF THE CAMERA. A quick online perusal will show photos and videos of candidate Biden with his hands on midriffs, waists and even breasts. And the videos also show the women clearly uncomfortable with his groping. His unseemly behavior was SO blatant and SO pervasive, that satirists across the land had a field day with him. Even the clothing industry was inspired to respond with a garment that summed it all up:
And, disgustingly, there were also photos and videos of Biden clutching, petting and sniffing YOUNG GIRLS, again ON CAMERA, and again, much to the obvious discomfiture of the unfortunate young ladies. And, even worse, there’s the allegations made by a credible former Senatorial intern, Tara Reid, accusing Biden of (unwanted) digital PENETRATION! In an underground Senate passageway, no less!
But, after ALL of this, what happens? The American media “clams up” on Biden. The Democrats change the subject, and Biden skates past all consequences and criticism by merely telling the nation that he “will be more aware of the need to respect “personal space.”…. That’s it?… That’s IT????… “LACK OF PERSONAL SPACE AWARENESS” vs. “MONSTER.”… “PROMOTION” to the Presidency vs. calls for RESIGNATION???
OH, THE IRONY!