The public’s expectations

If Mike Allen were an oil rig worker who had been arrested for allegedly agreeing to buy sexual services while visiting Minnesota, the discussion would be between himself, the legal system and his family.

But the fact is Allen was the Conservative MLA for Fort McMurray-Wood Buffalo, a businessman who ran for public office in 2012 and who was rewarded with the support of the riding’s voters and the government in which he served. He was sent to represent Alberta at a U.S. lawmakers conference this week in St. Paul, but got entwined with the law himself Monday when he was arrested with 12 other men in a prostitution sting.

“It is a mistake for which there are no excuses and for which I accept full responsibility,” said Allen, who has report- edly paid back his portion of the taxpayer-funded trip.

Undercover female officers apparently snared 51-year-old Allen by posting an Internet ad. Police say Allen responded to the ad and allegedly agreed to exchange money for sexual services. The accusation of engaging in prostitution is a serious one, and if true, Allen should resign as an MLA.

He’s already with drawnf rom the Tory caucus, but such poor moral judgment would require that he step aside as a public official as well. If he wants to run in the byelection that would be held later, that’s a matter for Allen and the Fort McMurray electors to decide.

The public expects politicians to conduct themselves appropriately at all times, but especially when they’re attending a conference on behalf of Albertans.