When the Portland, Oregon police re-opened a long dormant investigation into a sexual assault allegation against Al Gore by a masseuse, I suggested that the ugly headlines that ensued might actually be in Gore’s best interest. The accuser’s statement had appeared online for everyone to read and the National Enquirer–enjoying a new dose of political credibility in the wake of its vindicated John Edwards coverage–was running with the woman’s story. If Gore’s protestations of innocence were true, what he needed an unbiased investigation and a legal all-clear notice.
And now he’s gotten it.