Rauner's apology violated first two rules of a public apology

Gov. Bruce Rauner is quite rightly embarrassed his email calling half of Chicago teachers "virtually illiterate" and half of Chicago principles "incompetent" became public. His apology, if it can even be called that, exacerbates the utter tone deafness and insensitivity of his comments, violating two cardinal rules of a valid apology. First he apologized through a subordinate, Lance Trover. It's unacceptable for the transgressor to hide while a paid assistant is forced to release an apology. Second, the apology began with an excuse for the insult of dedicated educational professionals, stating "Significant change can be frustratingly slow; this is especially true in public education. Many of us, at one time or another, have sent hastily crafted emails containing inaccurate or intemperate statements, This particular email was sent out of frustration at the pace of change in our public school system." This rendered the actual apology which followed meaningless.

One thing about failed apologies. They can be corrected. The governor needs to call in reporters and say something like: "My remarks insulting Chicago teachers and principals were insensitive, insulting and wrong. I apologize for them."

Sixteen words, Governor; less than 16 seconds. Then get back to work crafting a socially responsible budget without pre-conditions busting unions, degrading middle class pay for state workers, and cutting desperately needed social services keeping the needy afloat.