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Sen. Vitter Throws Tantrum at DC Airport

By Harry Kimball, Newser Staff

Posted Mar 11, 2009 2:34 PM CDT

(Newser) – Sen. David Vitter, perhaps best known for admitting to patronizing a prostitute, had a very public meltdown at Washington’s Dulles Airport last week after arriving late for a flight, Roll Call reports. Finding the gate already closed when he arrived to board, the Louisiana Republican opened the door anyway, setting off alarms and sparking a confrontation with airline personnel.

Sources said Vitter employed the “do-you-know-who-I-am” line of argument, but when an airline staffer moved to call security, Vitter left the gate. A Vitter spokesman had no comment.

Airline travelers wait in the security gate line at San Francisco International Airport. (AP Photo)

David Vitter in 2005. (AP Photo)

David Vitter. (AP Photo)

Jeanette Maier, former madam of a high priced New Orleans brothel, who says Vitter was a client. (AP Photo)

David Vitter. (AP Photo)

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Vitter Denies Airport Meltdown

Sen. admits blunder, but says reports of tantrum are greatly exaggerated

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If there is one, which we hope there isn't. Good idea, say Dems.

Ensign Facing an Ethical Hot Potato, but no Legal Case (Yet)

Ex-lover would have to make accusation

Ensign: I Won't Quit, and I'll Run Again

Disgraced senator says supporters don't want him to resign

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Policy Committee slot is No. 4 in party's Senate hierarchy

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OTHER STORIES ON OUR RADAR

Senate Republicans • David Vitter • airport security • Dulles • scandal

MOST POPULAR STORIES

[ By Views ]

[ By Comments ]

More Newser Stories

Vitter Denies Airport Meltdown

Sen. admits blunder, but says reports of tantrum are greatly exaggerated

GOP: Congress, Prez Must Go On Public Option

If there is one, which we hope there isn't. Good idea, say Dems.

Ensign Facing an Ethical Hot Potato, but no Legal Case (Yet)

Ex-lover would have to make accusation

Ensign: I Won't Quit, and I'll Run Again

Disgraced senator says supporters don't want him to resign

Thune Takes Ensign's GOP Leadership Post

Policy Committee slot is No. 4 in party's Senate hierarchy

About Us

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Newser By Users

Community

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More News

What is Newser?