OPINION:
The sudden sexual assault allegation by Christine Blasey Ford against the U.S. Supreme Court nominee, the Honorable Brett Kavanaugh, reeks of questionable motivation (“Kavanaugh, accuser set for high-stakes Senate showdown,” Web, Sept. 17). Having worked as a professional in the criminal-justice system for three decades (specifically, having worked with victims of crime for many years), I have the utmost respect and empathy for genuine victims of crime, and I serve as their strongest advocate. However, the situation that now presents itself and the implications surrounding it are profoundly troubling.
Historically in the criminal-justice arena, Judge Kavanaugh has been a highly respected professional and a man of character and integrity. He has an impeccable record. His adamant and immediate denial of this accusation is understandable. What you see is what you get with Judge Kavanaugh.
Though Mrs. Ford deserves to be heard, it is disconcerting that she comes forward with her accusations after 36 years — particularly at the time of this pinnacle event in Judge Kavanaugh’s career and after he has undergone six FBI investigations that turned up nothing of this sort. Though she could have possibly repressed the alleged incident, Mrs. Ford’s actions, coupled with her timing, are certainly cause for pause on many levels.
If she is a bona fide victim, and even if she had trauma from such an alleged incident, it is highly likely that the issues surrounding it would have evolved in a different fashion and at a different time. The manner in which this entire matter has surfaced, along with her hazy memory on some aspects of the alleged incident, initiate many questions and create substantial doubt.
The knee-jerk reaction of some politicians who have already jumped on Mrs. Ford’s bandwagon with confidence that her story is true is not only a total disservice to Judge Kavanaugh specifically but to public service broadly. The possibility for political maneuvering encompassing self-serving political interests in present times paints the picture of a potential smear campaign.
KAREN L. BUNE
Adjunct professor, victimology
George Mason University
Arlington
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