You're right that this was an inflammatory piece.
However, one Congressman has inside views of the Beltway, and is free to express them. I find Condit's silence and his clinging to only two questions on a lie detector test similiar to Clinton's first remarks "I did not have sex with THAT woman".
It's something about the way they take that first stance that makes you wary. If he has nothing to hide, he has nothing to hide.
And, as I think 'E said, we should hold those who hold public office to a set of standards that represent our own.

Your comment "Anyway, being a howling pervert does not seem to be a major impediment to a political career in this country." is so funny.
A lot of people who get into politics are swayed by the money and power, (which are powerful aphrodisiacs on their own), it also gives them free rein to sex for hire and sooner or later you are bound to find the perverts.
Did you ever see Kubrick's last movie "Eyes Wide Shut"?