The good professor hasn't done his homework.

Farmington Republican John Frary, who's challenging U.S. Rep. Mike Michaud in his re-election bid, is facing possible fines from the Federal Election Commission for filing errors on two reports required by the commission. When asked by a Lewiston Sun Journal reporter about the problem, Professor Frary gave one of his vintage, florid replies:

"Seems to me," said Frary, "these laws were actually devised to go after schemers in Chicago and Kansas City and Baltimore and Newark and other rich, lowly fields of political shenanigans. I don't suppose they are really intended to go after obscure retired college professors, but such is the way of bureaucracies."

Better would be an answer that conveys respect for the rule of law -- a concept that conservatives vigorously support. Frary told the reporter that, "Federal bureaucracy is a pain in the ass," proving that he indeed can be brief when he wants to, but that still misses the point.

How about, "I blew it," Professor Frary? And if you must use a few more words, we suggest adding, "I'm sorry."