...because the man should have a full press conference and take the hard questions:
1) Can you say with confidence that the behavior of Mark Foley was isolated and that no other member is or should be under investigation in relation to the pages?
2) You have said "the buck stops here" in terms of responsibility for the page program. As your Chief of Staff, was Scott Palmer empowered to address matters such as Mark Foley's activities without informing you? How did Palmer understand his responsibility to you as Speaker?
3) What is the purpose and role of the Congressional Board responsible for the Page Program? Why was the full board not notified in the matter of Mark Foley?
4) Did Mark Foley's strength as a fundraiser for the Republican Party play a role in how these matters were handled?
5) In terms of improving and strengthening the page program, what measures would you anticipate putting in place to better protect the pages from harassment by members of Congress?
6) Why was Mark Foley pressured to resign so quickly, with no further investigation, given that questions have subsequently arisen as to the veracity and intent of the Instant Message conversation? Did Foley raise any objection in the matter of the Instant Messages?
7) In a future instance, would the concerns of parents that a Member of Congress cease contact with their child raise more of a flag in your mind? What do you think led so many people to see such a request as isolated and not worth further investigation?
8) In the future, what process would you recommend for identifying Members of Congress to act as mentors and advisers to the pages?
9) Some have suggested that one problem with the page program is that is biased towards those with close connections to members of the House. Do you see a need to broaden the program, and if not why not, and if so, how would you broaden it?
10) Mr. Speaker, some have suggested that Foley's behavior stemmed from pressure to remain closeted. Does the Republican Party make it difficult for openly gay men and lesbians to serve in the House? Do you think there is a pressure on gay people to remain closeted, and if so, how could that be addressed? What's wrong with being gay?
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