However the scandal-induced resignation of CIA Director David Petraeus shakes out, this much we know. The FBI checked for violations of federal criminal law, but its overriding concern was security. Was Petraeus’ e-mail hacked? Was sensitive information compromised? Was the subject vulnerable to blackmail?
Apparently that bullet, at least, was dodged. Collateral damage, unfortunately, continues apace for the families affected.
But the Petraeus-Paula Broadwell affair is a reminder of why the rules are different in the ultimate corridors of power, where personal indiscretions can have serious national security implications. That’s why President Bill Clinton’s affair with Monica Lewinsky, who was no Mata Hari, was still much more than poor judgment, character flaw and nuanced lying. It’s why President John F. Kennedy sharing the affection of Judith Campbell with mobster Sam Giancana was so unconscionably dangerous.
This isn’t merely about spouse betrayal and moral failings. Moreover, adultery, per se, is none of anybody else’s business. But ultimate, illicit access to the president or CIA director is, indeed, the public’s business. It’s about trust, and it’s about national security. And it comes with certain offices.