It's not the sex part that rankles, it's the invasion of privacy. Everybody knows that Kerry had prostate cancer, but neither Bush nor anybody on his team publicly speculates whether the treatment rendered Kerry impotent. Everybody knows that Edwards' wife is grossly obese, but nobody publicly speculates whether she has an eating disorder, or suggests that she go on a diet.
When Kerry's daughter accidentally - I am sure she had no idea her dress would be transparent to professional-grade photo flash bulbs - showed herself to be without a bra - it would have been the grossest invasion of privacy for Bush or any other person in public life to talk about how she has nice breasts, which she does.
One may gossip in private but it is simply Not Done to do so when on stage during a public debate.
Perhaps in New Zealand politicians talk about each other's bowel movements and sexual preferences and other such things, but it's considered Bad Form here.
Perhaps we're simply fuddy-duddies. Bill Clinton talked about being unfaithful to his wife and what kind of underwear he preferred (briefs, not boxers) while running for President, and we elected him anyway (not me!), and look what happened.
Years and years of being subjected to public discussions of semen on dresses, cigars in vaginas, and phone sex. Enough!
For that matter, it's Bad Form to talk about how much money you have, which Kerry also does.
For many, it's also Bad Form to talk publicly about your religion. Bush moves in public circles where it is acceptable to do so, but outside those circles some are made uncomfortable, so he tends not to be the first to mention it. |
