Should Caesar's Wife Have Taken the Fifth?

Solyndra. LightSquared. There have been a lot of mistakes by this administration but that is common enough. Some, like the Cash for Clunkers, were just stupid. Some, like the Guns for Cartels, were malignant. But supporting these companies, with administration financial ties and ownership, is the worst. It makes important leaders look sleazy. It makes them look petty. They are more than wrong; they are unworthy.

Caesar's first wife, Cornelia, died in childbirth delivering Julia who would later marry Pompey. Caesar then married Pompeia, Pompey's cousin. Caesar became Pontifex Maximus so the sacred rites of Bona Dea for "The Great Goddess" (whose name could not be spoken and whose rites are to this day obscure) were held in his house under the direction of his wife and his mother. (The rite was for women only, men forbidden.) Clodius, a famous rake and political leader, crashed the event dressed as a woman. He was discovered (and eventually tried in court which he bribed) It was felt by one and all that Pompeia had aided his entrance, likely because they were lovers. Caesar divorced her and, when pressed why, never gave his wife up as unfaithful. Instead he said "Caesar's wife must be above suspicion."

There is real nobility here in Caesar's protecting his wife. And the whole story is fascinating. But Caesar's statement is profound and should be basic for leaders.

But maybe Obama's above it.