After telling the Palm Beach Post he ‘had nothing to do with’ a $300,000 contribution to his super PAC from his father’s company – a company in which Patrick owns a stake worth up to $5 million – Murphy is no longer answering questions on his own.
Instead, he’s hiding behind a campaign spokesperson. And ultra liberal Tampa Bay Times columnist John Romano has some very, very harsh words about it:
“You’re a U.S. Senate candidate with a name recognizable in roughly 7.4 percent of Florida homes, and already you’re hiding behind a spokeswoman’s written statements?
“Granted, I understand the embarrassment of preaching against our campaign finance system while your rich dad pours money into a super PAC supporting your campaign.
“But you know what’s worse than a hypocrite?
“A cowardly hypocrite.
“Seriously, why is it expected, and accepted, for politicians to duck questions and issues? When did the role of a spokesperson morph into the job of a human shield? Who thinks that hiding in a boardroom is a sign of leadership?”
…
“As for Murphy, just face the music. Explain that the only way to fix campaign finance laws is by getting elected in the first place. It may sound smarmy, but it’s better than looking like a wuss.” (John Romano, “If You Don’t Like This Column, I Blame My Spokesperson,” Tampa Bay Times, 4/21/16)
If you think this is brutal, just ask Alan Grayson for his thoughts.