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Jewish World Review Nov. 5, 2006 / 13 Tishrei, 5767
Foley blames behavior on postpartum depression
By Andy Borowitz
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Latest excuse raises eyebrows, doubts
http://www.JewishWorldReview.com |
Former Rep. Mark Foley (R-Fla) held a press conference in Washington, D.C. today to
offer yet another excuse for his inappropriate contact with congressional pages,
telling reporters that his behavior was caused by an acute case of postpartum
depression.
Mr. Foley's latest explanation took many in Washington by surprise, since in recent
days he had blamed childhood abuse and alcoholism for his current woes.
But in his press conference this morning, the former Florida congressmen said that
while childhood abuse and alcoholism played a part in his behavior, postpartum
depression played "an even bigger part."
"Like millions of Americans, I suffered from postpartum depression," said the
embattled congressman, choking back tears. "Instead of seeking professional help, I
self-medicated by sending instant messages to hot congressional pages."
While many in official Washington and across the country questioned Mr. Foley's
latest explanation for his behavior, perhaps no one registered stronger doubts about
the postpartum theory than the actor Tom Cruise.
Just hours after Mr. Foley's press conference, Mr. Cruise held a press conference of
his own to call the former lawmaker's explanation "bogus."
"I, too, suffered postpartum depression after the birth of my daughter, Suri," Mr.
Cruise said. "But I got over it through a straight regimen of exercise and
vitamins."
Responding to Mr. Cruise's criticism, Mr. Foley said that postpartum depression had
not caused his behavior after all, but added, "What if I told you I was
hypoglycemic?"