Roskam channels Jack Benny on Trump: "I'm thinking it over!"

Thief to Jack Benny: "your money or your life"

Pause

Thief to Jack Benny - louder: "Your money or your life"

Pause

Jack Benny: "I'm thinking it over!"

That famous Jack Benny comedy bit showcasing his cheapness and love of money comes to mind as I question my congressman Peter Roskam's refusal to 'come out' for or against Donald Trump for president. Twice now I've called his political office, 630 221 0006, and twice the befuddled young man who answered says he has no idea if and when Roskam will make a statement either supporting or disavowing The Donald. Roskam's silence on the presumptive GOP nominee is unprecedented in Roskam's 23 year lifetime political career. Could it be Trump's widespread support from the racist white nationalist Republican fringe including former KKK champion David Duke? Could it be Trump's xenophobia in branding Mexican immigrants rapists and calling for a religious test to exclude all Muslims from entering the US? Could it be the way he mocked a disabled reporter? Could it be his long time litany of disgusting sexist comments to degrade and demean women?

I guess if Roskam himself instead of the befuddled young man answered the phone at campaign headquarters, the conversation would go something like this?

Me: "Congressman Roskam, are you supporting the racist, xenophobic, misogynist, name caller Donald Trump"?

Pause

Me: "Mr. Roskam, your political future or your integrity?"

Congressman Roskam: "I'm thinking it over!"

Walt Zlotow

Glen Ellyn