In my blog-reader, a New York Times DealBook summary of the results of the New Jersey gubernatorial election, "Attacking Corzine's Wall St. Ties, Christie Wins Race," is tagged with the byline "By DealBook on Goldman Sachs."
Jon Corzine left (or was forced out by Hank Paulson) Goldman Sachs ten years ago. But in today's through-the-looking-glass political climate, where Republicans are making inroads attacking Democrats for being too close to Wall Street, the stain of any association with the investment bank that everyone loves to hate cannot be washed away. (Bloomberg's astoundingly poor showing in his victory might be another sign of populist revulsion against moneybags candidates.)
By all accounts, Corzine ran a lousy campaign. But his resumé did not do him any favors. The people have spoken: For at least a few years, other Goldman Sachs alums considering a future in electoral politics are advised to be cautious.
BONUS: Felix Salmon, back from vacation, comes on strong with a magnificent history of the recent adventures of ex-Goldman CEOs.
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