Remember - Eliot Spitzer?

Its not surprising that 2 days after the U.S. presidential election we are now informed that disgraced Eliot Spitzer will not be prosecuted for his crimes ...

Conspiracy?

Sadly not.

We have come to expect this "rub my back and I'll rub yours" treatment of elected leaders, and in fact, we have become somewhat numb to it.

Coincidence that the decision came just two days after the election? You can decide for yourself. I wonder what all the people whose careers he toppled like Dick Grasso are thinking as they hear of this news today.

Eliot Spitzer, the fallen ex-governor of New York, will not face criminal charges for his involvement with a prostitution ring, US federal prosecutors said on Thursday.

Mr Spitzer resigned in March amid allegations he spent tens of thousands of dollars on call girls, ending the political career of a man who championed higher ethical standards on Wall Street and in government.

On Thursday, Michael Garcia, the US attorney for the southern district of New York, said that a “thorough investigation” uncovered no misuse of public or campaign funds in payments made to an international prostitution ring known as the Emperors Club VIP.

“We have determined that there is insufficient evidence to bring charges against Mr Spitzer for any offence relating to the withdrawal of funds for, and his payments to, the Emperors Club VIP,” he said. “In light of the policy of the Department of Justice with respect to prostitution offences ... we have concluded that the public interest would not be further advanced by filing criminal charges in this matter.”

Mr Spitzer has admitted he was a client of the prostitution ring and on Thursday apologised again for his conduct.

“I acknowledge and accept responsibility for the conduct [the investigation] disclosed,” he said in a statement. “I once again apologise for my actions.”

Many on Wall Street who felt the sting of Mr Spitzer’s tactics as state attorney-general had rejoiced in his demise, though some have suggested that it should not obscure his achievements.

What's next for Spitzer? Surely a lucrative book deal to explain what in his childhood or career drove him to abusing his office and patronizing prostitutes. With the help of experts who rebuild soiled brands and reputations, most likely an executive position with a large company, and/or seats on various boards.

What he will never earn back is his dignity or honor.