Corruption in our political system is minor compared to what I’ve witnessed in Bulgaria and the Philippines. It does exist, however. For example (Idaho State Journal, Saturday March 1, 1008):

Caribou County’s embattled prosecutor, Chriss James … pleaded no contest to the facts alleged by Attorney General Lawrence Wasden’s office — that he dismissed citations in exchange for cash totaling $3,800.

According to news reports (which are locked up behind a stupid pay wall at the Idaho State Journal newspaper), James (the Prosecutor for Caribou County in Soda Springs, Idaho) would meet with people cited for a misdemeanor traffic offense and allowed them to make a “contribution” in exchange for dismissing the charges. The “contribution”, he told them, would be used for the Caribou County Fair’s 5-kilometer run. After receiving the “contribution”, James then deposited the money in his personal bank account.

In a hearing last Friday, James attempted to get the 11 felony counts of misusing public funds dismissed. Thankfully, he was not successful. His reason? “Everyone is doing it, so it shouldn’t be illegal.”

Wrong, Mr. James. Everyone is NOT doing it. Besides, it is illegal.