" We want to introduce you to the folks who are the heart and soul of American politics," CNN's Jeff Greenfield told his audience on the first night of last month's Democratic convention. So he introduced them to one Paul Adler, chairman of New York State's Rockland County Democratic party -- a man, Greenfield explained, with a "passion" for public service.
Judging from the ensuing videotape, however, it appeared Adler's principal passion was for his cronies. Right there on national TV, Adler bragged about his Rolodex, pawing through it and narrating its trophies: "White House, Senate, congressional, statehouse, town hall numbers, private lines." Also: the phone number of a carpenter doing work on Hillary Clinton's Westchester County home.
Adler is a big chum of the first lady. He was early to tout her possible New York Senate race. Before she took up residence in Westchester, she frequently stayed overnight at Adler's place and looked to him for advice and crucial introductions. In short, Adler was a player -- said to be next in line as New York state Democratic chairman.
Except that Monday of last week Adler was charged with eight federal counts of conspiracy, mail fraud, bribery, and extortion. It seems the "heart and soul of American politics" had pocketed hundreds of thousands of dollars to grease local real estate transactions in which he had a financial interest. He faces up to 60 years in prison and a $ 2 million fine. Given this development, what is Paul Adler's current relationship to the Clinton Senate campaign? A Clinton spokeswoman tells reporters: "Hillary knows that this is a difficult time for Paul and his family and she wishes him well."