The Environmental Protection Agency’s Al Armendariz was another presidential 2010 appointee in a long line of professors with primarily textbook experience unsuited for “real world” challenges.

Why was Armendariz not fired in 2010 when he first made his remarks about “crucifying” EPA’s alleged violators? His comment crossed the line with intimidation and overreach.

The obvious answer is it did not become public until recently. This use of intimidation is a “reign of terror,” exactly what Axlerod is accusing Mitt Romney of.

It is now an election year, and Armendariz is considered a political liability, simply another sacrificial offering to quiet the critics. However, his views and comments were known to the EPA lead and the administration two years ago, yet nothing was done.

The message being sent by the current administration is clear — keep the progressive agenda moving forward unless caught, then indicate your shock at unacceptable behavior.

Rather than be transparent, as promised by this administration, their current plan is to operate under the radar and to deal quietly under the table.

This is further underscored by President Barack Obama’s recent comment in Russia, “I will have more flexibility” to work with you after the next election. This comment made, with no other elected American official present, is simply unheard of. Had the microphone not recorded his comment, there would have been no transparency.

The president has attempted to diminish the impact of his whispered statement by treating this as a trivial matter with the press. Are these types of private dealings with a rival foreign power trite?

These examples are the tip of the iceberg. It is certain there are secret dealings not disclosed to the public unless accidently released or found out.

Is this administration straightforward? Is it honest? Is this the future you trust for your family?