VIEWS FROM AROUND MISSOURI: GRIFFIN'S PROBLEMS SHINE HARMFUL LIGHT ON GAMBLING AT AN INOPPORTUNE TIME

House Speaker Bob Griffin is knowledgeable, personable and above all else, powerful. But now he joins a growing list of state officials who face investigation for wrongdoing. Griffin welcomes the investigation and says he's done nothing illegal or unethical.

There have already been calls from both parties for Griffin to resign his powerful post. That appears unlikely, at least at this point.

But the issue will divert attention from the ballot proposal in November that would allow Missouri casinos to include slot machines -- an issue that is critical for the future of casino gambling in Missouri. Griffin's problems, whether real or perceived, will not help that ballot initiative, rest assured.

The Republicans are understandably anxious to have Griffin questioned about his role in the casino operation. The GOP says Griffin's trouble are a result of 40 years of Democratic domination in Jefferson City. They might just be right.

We shouldn't be surprised. It's an election year and that usually brings just such headlines. As we follow the trials and trails of Bailey and Moriarty, now we'll keep watch on the Bob Griffin story. We hope it has a happy ending.