Misconduct knows no political bounds: Your Say

Former House speaker Dennis Hastert was indicted last week on charges of evading limits on cash withdrawals and lying to the FBI. The news prompted a discussion online about corruption in politics. Comments from Facebook are edited for clarity and grammar:

I don't think Republicans have a monopoly on corruption or crime, as Democrats definitely have their share of bad apples. I want all bad apples out of politics, Republican, independent or Democrat.

But political theater creates the perfect environment for corruption, so getting rid of the bad guys will never happen.

— Michael Bassett

When the GOP specifically runs as the party of family values and God, it has big issues when one of its members, such as Dennis Hastert, is accused of paying bribes to cover up prior misconduct.

— Jay Tanenbaum

It's clear that both parties are guilty of corruption. The difference is that Republicans get elected on, and preach, family values. To preach against the evil you are committing is especially sick.

— Ian Edwards

The party of family values and God likely will not keep such philanderers or those guilty of other sexual misconduct in office and continue to support them when the transgressions are proven.

Even former House speaker Newt Gingrich gained little traction in his presidential bid. That was not because of politics, but because of his sexual transgressions. But, yes, the temptations fall on both sides of the political spectrum.

— Douglas Miller