As someone who has written a lot about evangelical and conservative Christianity, and been editor of two Christian newspapers, I don’t know if I’ve encountered anybody who has behaved as sleazy and opportunistic as former Rep. Michael Decker. Whatever recognition and respect he used to have was due to his reputation as a strong, pro-life Christian. His son, now also tainted, was once assistant director for the Christian Coalition of North Carolina.
Decker Sr., while not a powerful legislator nor an especially effective one, and considered a bit eccentric, nevertheless was accepted as part of that group. Now he’s thrown it away and may end up paying a serious price for it.
I’ve covered sleazy televangelists. I’ve heard strip club owners explain to me the antics of clients (including legislators) and employees. And worst of all I get to hear all the filthy rumors about the political scene in Raleigh.
Decker, so far, tops ’em all. He gave up his integrity and his Christian reputation for a few glittering coins. Now he is a nobody. I have heard his name associated, in whispers, with the terms “low life” and other pejoratives. He has certainly earned it.
