David Petraeus sex scandal a "blip" on his record, general's former Iraq aide says (CBS News) In just one week, the key players in the David Petraeus scandal have become famous. So they've hired some well-known lawyers and other representatives to do damage control. Top Washington attorney Bob Barnett is now working for the former CIA director. Petraeus' biographer and mistress, Paula Broadwell, has hired the public relations firm that employs former White House Press Secretary Dee Dee Myers. Jill Kelley, who made the complaint that uncovered Petraeus' affair, has teamed up with Washington attorney Abbe Lowell -- and Monica Lewinsky's former crisis manager, Judy Smith. And Kelley's twin sister, Natalie Khawam, is now represented by attorney Gloria Allred. Complete coverage: Gen. David Petraeus scandal But what's next for Petraeus? He was one of the most admired men in America, but now, the question for him is whether he can regain his elevated status and if so, how? By any measure, Petraeus' record of accomplishment is extraordinary. A four-star general, he led the surges in Iraq and Afghanistan, he was director of the CIA, and while he denied any interest in politics, some top strategists had him on their short-list for president. Peter Mansoor, a top Petraeus aide in Iraq, said, "This personal failing will be a blip on that historical record." He added, "Gee, if we made adultery a disqualification for public office, I think about half of Washington would be out of a job so I think you could very well see David Petraeus back in Washington in a public position at some point." But getting there will take time and a plan, according to crisis communications expert Richard Levick who's helped a who's who of companies and individuals through tough times. Asked what Petraeus needs to do right now, Levick said, "Gen. Petraeus needs to do two things, first disappear; it's the holiday season, it's a good time to disappear. Now he can spend time with his wife trying to mend that relationship.