Divorces May Hurt Republican Presidential Hopeful’s Chances for White House

By Nottage and Ward on November 21, 2011

The 2012 presidential election has several potential candidates. One Republican presidential hopeful is Newt Gingrich. But, according to an article in The Huffington Post, his past tumultuous private life may affect his chances of being voted the Republican presidential nominee.

Recently, the 68-year-old former House Speaker addressed his past divorces and affairs in an interview with “Fox and Friends.” Currently, he is married to wife number three and has previously admitted to having had affairs. Gingrich also led the charge for the impeachment of President Clinton for his affair with Monica Lewinsky. Gingrich opened up about his regrets during the Fox interview and discussed how his past relationship decisions may compromise his presidential aspirations. Gingrich believes voters will have to “come to their own judgment” on whether he is “somebody that [they] would trust to lead the American people.”

Gingrich now wants voters to believe that he has changed and is not the same man from his rocky past; however, this does not necessarily instill trust and confidence with conservative voters. Based on a recent poll, nearly half of Iowa’s Republicans insist that they will not vote for a candidate who has admitted to having an affair or who has been married and divorced multiple times.

Everyone has a different opinion about divorce. For Gingrich and any other political candidate, private actions can have consequences with voters, particularly when the politician has previously vilified others for the same actions. For most, however, divorce is the rational answer to an emotional decision. When you are faced with that decision, speak with an attorney at Nottage and Ward. We are dedicated Illinois divorce attorneys, who understand all aspects of divorce and are committed to helping clients through such a difficult time. If you are considering divorce in Illinois, we can answer all of your questions. Contact us today at (312) 332-2915 for a consultation.