A line from Shakespeare immediately came to mind as I read the May 28 story “Benton calls from D.C. — Former state senator touts his achievements.” Don Benton was defending his record as a public servant at some length. So, to paraphrase the Bard: “The fellow doth protest too much, methinks.”
I have followed Benton’s career over the years and can say that, by any measure, he has not been exactly a model public servant. For example, recall his voting down the Columbia River Crossing and his questionable appointment as Clark County Environmental Services director.
I suppose he is feeling the sting of being pushed out of the EPA and being given a consolation prize with his Selective Service job. I deeply admire those who can look at their past actions with humility and say where they went wrong. Benton only sees the need to justify himself without any soul-searching or remorse.
