Dozens of military intelligence analysts complained last year they were pressured to alter reports to make it look as if U.S. action against terrorist organizations was more successful than actually was the case. An investigation of that is proceeding.

But last week, members of Congress were told some U.S. Central Command personnel have been deleting emails and other computer files that might have been useful in the probe.

Obviously, that is very serious business. If a coverup is in progress, it needs to be stopped and those involved should be punished.

But put yourself in the shoes of someone at CENTCOM, worried about computer files getting him or her in trouble. That person could very well reason their position in some ways resembles that of former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, who clearly has lied and attempted to conceal electronic evidence in the probe of her handling of secret material.

If you are that CENTCOM staffer, you may note that Clinton’s crimes have not hurt her – she’s a leading candidate for president, after all. No one has even charged her with a crime. So if you are the CENTCOM staffer, it is perfectly understandable to conclude that – at least in the Obama administration – corruption involving national security is acceptable.