Editorial: Web log reflects poorly on USAC dignity

Everyone knows politics is a dirty business, but it is still sad
when public figures spew malevolent vitriol at one another.

The discovery of an insulting Web log entry written by
Undergraduate Students Association Council Facilities commissioner
Tutram Nguyen has shocked many students and generated an Internet
chatter of unusual proportions.

The entry was hidden from view Monday night, but before it was
removed its insults were widespread. Josh Lawson, the Equal Access
Coalition slate, the Daily Bruin, the Bruin Democrats, the Bruin
Republicans and others were subject to a string of obscenities and
vulgar rebukes.

A personal rant, Nguyen’s blog is not in the same league
with David Dahle’s “manipulation is the key” memo
(which was a training manual for future councilmembers). But its
obscenity, childish nature and complete lack of grace were greatly
disturbing. Written after the end of the USAC elections, Nguyen
touted the success of her allies and viciously mocked losers. Her
comments were utterly without class.

Nguyen may dismiss her statements as a simple blog entry, but
they were nonetheless plain for everyone to see. As an elected USAC
official, she must be held to a high standard. With hope, incoming
USAC officers will conduct themselves with more dignity
““ even in their blogs.