I’ve thought for a long time that we don’t have enough resignations in this country, generally speaking. One thing that’s very American is to hold out until the bitter end. Disgraced yourself? Failed spectacularly? Disappointed everyone who was counting on you? Don’t sweat it … keep soldiering on, regardless.

Which brings me to James Traficant. This is a man who not only brought shame to himself and his office, but actually broke several laws. He’s outraged because Dick Gephart says he should resign. Please! Never mind resigning, he should probably consider seppuku. I’m not one to look back fondly on the good old days, but there really is something to be said for resigning to show that you maintain some shred of honor, even when you really don’t.