Winners and Losers in the Abandoned Sting Case

LOSER Kathleen Kane: Had she simply but firmly affirmed her decision not to prosecute the money-takers, the scandal would’ve been damaging to her — but possibly survivable. Kane’s responses, rather than affirming her as a professional, have made made her seem increasingly petulant. Threatening a defamation case? Daring critic Seth Williams to prosecute instead of her? These actions don't actually seem tough.

WINNER: Gene Stilp: The citizen activist has been filing lawsuits left and right, bringing private criminal charges against some of the bribe takers, and generally living a gadfly’s dream.

LOSER Tyron Ali: He’s the most famous snitch in a town that, uh, doesn’t like snitches all that much.

WINNER The Inquirer: It’s been a crappy winter for the newspaper, what with fights between its owners and a lawsuit from a Pennsylvania Supreme Court justice. Kane’s threats notwithstanding, the Inquirer’s efforts to uncover the story — and to promote the hell out of every possible follow-up — is a timely reminder that good journalism strengthens democracy.

LOSER State legislators: Nobody in Harrisburg is going to be taking unmarked cash-filled envelopes for awhile — not, at least, without speaking the immortal words: "Are you wearing a wire?"

WINNER Republicans: Lessee: Democrats took money under the table. Democrats didn’t prosecute. Democrats started infighting over the issue. This isn’t going to help Tom Corbett win re-election, because he dug his own hole. Otherwise, though, the Pennsylvania GOP (and even some folks at the national level) couldn’t be more delighted with the turn of events.