Curt Weldon

As readers know, this blog has discussed Pennsylvania congressman Curt Weldon at some length, because he brought public attention to the Able Danger data mining operation, which placed Mohammed Atta in the U.S. earlier than the FBI would have you believe. A few weeks ago, I published a post which began with these words: "The only thing that stinks worse than my vegetable bin is the latest attempt to spin away the Able Danger claim."

I stand by those words (although the vegetable bin has since been washed). Even so, Curt Weldon's recent antics will leave any reasonable person shaking his head.

Weldon faces a formidable Democratic opponent in Admiral Joe Sestak, who has a five-year-old daughter diagnosed with a brain tumor. Despicably, Weldon attempted to politicize the medical care Sestak chose for his daughter. Weldon claimed that she should have gone to a Pennsylvania hospital instead of one in the Washington area.

Sestak offered a perfectly-worded response:

I understand the political arena. I knew that this campaign would thrust my family into the media spotlight and we are prepared for that. But I want to make it very clear to Congressman Weldon, that any remarks regarding my daughter, Alexandra's, treatment will not be tolerated.

Like many families dealing with illness, we have had our challenges in the last year. Through the grace of God, the many prayers of our friends and family, and the wonderful doctors and nurses, we have made it through this experience with our daughter Alex, who continues to inspire us everyday.

Though we recognize the important work done by the many hospitals in and around Philadelphia, it was our personal choice to have Alex treated in Washington at the Children's Hospital because of its outstanding work on pediatric brain tumors. This decision was based on many things – none of which were political.

Should Weldon's display of hideous taste impact the Able Danger story?

No. The allegations do not rest on his word. His primary informant was Lt. Colonel Anthony Shaffer -- who, as far as I know, has not made any ridiculous comments about the medical treatment given to young children. Shaffer's claims have been backed up by others, as my previous post makes clear.

Research into Able Danger continues. Meanwhile, Cannonfire readers will no doubt want to join me in wishing all the best to young Alexandra Sestak -- and in congratulating Pennsylvania on their promising new representative. Presuming Sestak wins.

Right now, that looks like a good bet.