Embattled Detroit Mayor Kwame Kilpatrick, Christine Beatty Share Brief Hug

Embattled Detroit Mayor Kwame Kilpatrick must have a thicker skull than the average person. That is the only way one can explain his lack of comprehension of the gravity of the situation he faces. He and his former chief of staff, Christine Beatty, who is also facing criminal charges stemming from an illicit affair, exchanged a brief hallway hug Tuesday after hearings in 36th District Court. You would think given the circumstances he would stay as far away from her as possible, but no, he had to go over and hug her. I am pretty sure this is not sitting pretty with his wife.

According to media reports, the mayor also appeared to give her a quick peck on the cheek before departing. The brief exchange was a departure from their courtroom appearances on felony charges of perjury and obstruction of justice, where they have kept their distance.

During the hour and 15 minutes of legal hearings and arguments, defense attorneys and public relations handlers maneuvered to keep Kilpatrick and Beatty well separated in the small courtroom. When she arrived, Beatty nodded to the mayor's plainclothes bodyguard, but she and Kilpatrick did not acknowledge each other. I bet you all he kept thinking about was Christine Beatty while he was sitting there. Was he whipped or what?

After the hearing, Kilpatrick was headed toward a private exit outside the courtroom when the mayor veered toward Beatty and embraced her as she waited for a public elevator. He offered her a peck, and she returned the quick hug. While under normal circumstances this may not have been a big deal, but given the reason why they are in this predicament, his action was not smart and will come back to haunt him. It speaks volumes to his judgment and acceptance of what is really happening to him. I wish he would step aside and let the city continue to run without all this drama. Just my thoughts, you be the judge.....