But, as you point out, Melanie's point is not that - but rather her assertion of the reasoning for Schwarzenegger's decision to deny clemency. Because he couldn't take another hit on his right flank.
Glad you caught that. I was too tired of responding to other posts and points to make that point as well.
I'm an article-skimmer, so I recognized the problem. :)
Let's do a modern day Boston Tea Party, dress up like liberals, and demand that Kennedy resign so as not to be "tarnished" by Arnie's decision! Because, right thing on Tookie or not, I doubt if Anrie can survive the decision to bring her aboard.