In a blatant slap in the face to new Auditor Susan Montee, Matt Blunt failed to present himself at her inauguration this afternoon. It is a real shame that the governor has chosen to start his reationship with the State Auditor in such a negative way. As I watched the ceremony, I was huimbled to see Susan show such respect for her new office and our state, and it reminded me of the true reason that most people seek public office; the chance to do good by the people and give something back to a state that has given so much to us.

Beyond all the partisian bickering and overt political maneuvers, public service is somthing to be revered. Susan brought in a true breath of fresh air with her family and priest by her side as she talked about sitting in her office looking at the pictures of those Auditors that have come before her. It was clear how much she cherishes the history of the Auditor's office and is humbled by those she seeks to replace.

The State Capitol is a museum of Missouri history. It has been there before all of our current elected officials first sought their offices, and it will remain well beyond this crop of servants move on. Yet it is that mutual respect for the history of the building, the Missouri Constituion, and the offices that officials hold that keep the capitol standing. Once we lose that, there is no more hope for civility in government.

It is dissapointing that Blunt could not show the dignity and respect for his office and be a part of a collegue's swearing in ceremony. Perhaps he was still recovering from his latest romp with Romney. Whatever the reason, it is shameful and without class.