To even WANT to run in politics, I honestly think being a crook is a pre-requisite. Republican or Democrat, Liberal or Conservative. CERTAINLY to get higher up into federal politics, you are going to have to make tough choices, compromises and back-room deals to even get elected and then again to stay there. It's part of the game and it's unfortunate, but thats how it works. Sadly this is our country...but hey, it's the best option out there I think.