Latham and FSSA Criticism Is Justified

A letter in today's JG really got under my skin. The author doesn't think the criticism of Michael Latham is fair:

There have been attempts to discredit Latham by accusing him of wrongdoing or the lack of doing anything while working for the State’s Family and Social Services Administration to create a committee of clergymen. Latham was appointed by Gov. Mitch Daniels.

Latham’s pay, credentials and education were mentioned as if they had anything to do with his job performance.

Huh? his credentials and educational background were challenged because his performance has been lacking. Making matters worse, FSSA secretary Mitch Roob said he plans to review the program after 24 months. Are you kidding me? For an administration that wants to run government like a business they are particularly bad at doing so. Can anyone imagine a new program not having any oversight or formal review for 24 months? That's simply unheard of in the private sector.

The author goes on to "explain" why Latham shouldn't be criticized:

The truth of the matter is the man is a black Christian backed by a Republican. Some people can’t stand that. They will go to any measure to discredit a person so he or she will not succeed. Fortunately, many have been stopped in their efforts to discredit people such as Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas and Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice.

Why can’t we just be proud of this fine outstanding black man in the community who cares about God, his family and all people? I’m proud of him.

Latham doesn't deserve a pass because he's a black Christian. He should be held to the same standards as everyone else. The man is getting $60k of taxpayer money and has done absolutely nothing to justify his salary. Should we hand out $60k checks to everyone that "cares about God, his family and all people"?

This is crony-capitalism at it's worst and this type of "privatization" is at the core of Governor Daniels' philosophy. Notice they don't want to truly privatize these services and allow employees to see whatever mental health provider they want. No, the Governor wants to create a monopoly and only allow people to see his choice. And oh by the way, his choice is a major campaign supporter and unqualified for the position. This is the epitome of the modern day Republican party and is a clear sign the party has lost its way with regards to fiscal conservatism...