The rhetoric from people suggesting anyone is beyond redemption for something they did as a mi or was ridiculous and moralizing. But the people countering that his character is above question and there should be no consequences for him now are over-correcting, imo. This guy is very young, and he's unproven. I'd be skeptical of electing him even if he didn't have a checkered past. If he spends the coming years doing things that demonstrate real contrition and growth, and gets some accomplishments under his belt that showcase his leadership skills, he would be a better candidate, and I would hope more people would be willing to consider him reformed.
"groveling"