New Jersey Governor Chris Christie, currently known for the dual political scandals that closed the George Washington Bridge access lanes and his administration’s spending on federal Hurricane Sandy aid, delivered a nearly two-hour televised apology.
Weeks later in Trenton, Christie delivered his annual State of the State speech, saying:
“The last week has certainly tested this administration. Mistakes were clearly made and as a result we let down the people we’re entrusted to serve.”
There’s another mistake in this statement: the use of the passive voice. While Christie took full responsibility for the Bridge scandal as the Governor, he was adamant that he did not know about it. But “mistakes were clearly made” is a phrase that doesn’t admit to taking full responsibility. The implication is that he is not ultimately responsible for the actions of his staff.
If Christie had used an active voice, such as “I made a mistake,” his credibility would not have take such a hit. He’d comes across as truthful, sincerely apologetic, and not as a politician distancing himself from the situation.
His words leave the citizens of New Jersey divided: 52% don’t think he was personally involved, while 51% don’t believe he’s been completely honest.
If you are a community servant, those you serve need to know that you value their confidence and vote. If anything happens under your watch, it is your responsibility to know about it and take action.
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