These days, we should all be happy when our elected officials reach across the aisle to get things done.  Of course, in New York state politics, the one thing that helps everyone get along is money.  And for the right amount of money, New York Republican leaders will allow a shady Democrat to bribe his way into the Republican primary for New York City mayor.  Really?!  Who thought this was a good idea?

Here is the federal complaint against Smith and Co.  No one can really say that they’re shocked that Smith is involved in yet another corruption scandal.  As the New York Post so helpfully summarizes:

The 56-year-old Queens Democrat was a central figure in a bid-rigging scandal involving the awarding of franchise to run the racino at Aqueduct race track.

Smith’s name has surfaced in federal investigations involving his pal, Rep. Gregory Meeks (D-Queens), and he has been criticized for ties to New Direction Local Development Corp., a nonprofit that has faced questions about what happened to money it raised for Hurricane Katrina victims.

A married father of two, Smith in 2006 was accused of fathering a love child with a former staffer. He has since said the case has been settled and that he is supporting the child financially.

Wow.  What a guy.

Anyway, Smith and his Republican friends must have been tired of hearing how Illinois had the dumbest corrupt politician:  Governor Rod Blagovevich, who tried to sell President Obama’s old senate seat. Honestly, if it’s proven, this has to be one of the most insanely dumb plans ever.  Ever.

Anyway, now we can safely say that New York has regained its rightful place at the top of the dumb corrupt politicians pyramid.  Let’s hear it for Malcolm Smith and for New York!

Thank you, Mr. Smith, you are the reason that this blog exists!