THEY NEVER CHANGE – AT 8:17 A.M. ET:  As the great philosopher, Jerry Lewis, once said, "Bad looks you can change, stupid is forever."  It seems to be true:

As several House Democrats press Rep. Charles Rangel to call it quits over a host of ethics charges, his New York allies reportedly are planning a lavish fundraiser in honor of his 80th birthday.

The Hill reported that New York Sens. Charles Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand, along with Gov. David Paterson, are putting together an Aug. 11 birthday gala at The Plaza Hotel in Manhattan. Tickets will run from $200 to $2,500.

The party is a sign that Rangel's home-state supporters are willing to let the ethics proceedings play out. The money raised from the gala is reportedly being pumped into his Rangel Victory Fund.

COMMENT:  Do you remember a time when appearances counted?  The guy evaded taxes, and he gets a big shindig at the Plaza, which is truly a high-rent joint. 

This is really showing utter contempt for the public.  It is the mentality of a political class that believes it's entitled to its position.  I hope there's a sharp public reaction.  But it's New York, where corruption of all kinds flourishes, so I won't hold my breath.

August 2, 2010