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* 2:29 pm - This has been expected for a while now, but another one bites the dust…
Christopher Kelly, a longtime friend and adviser to Gov. Rod Blagojevich, pleaded guilty in federal court this afternoon to filing false tax returns that concealed his use of corporate funds to cover gambling debts.
Kelly, 51, answered with a strong “guilty” when asked how he would plead by U.S. District Judge Elaine Bucklo. He admitted to underreporting his commercial roofing company’s profits by nearly $500,000 between 2001 and 2005. […]
He now faces up to 8 years in prison when he is sentenced in April.
The Tribune claims that Kelly’s lawyer “declined to answer questions about whether Kelly eventually could cooperate against the governor,” but here’s the Sun-Times’ take…
Kelly’s lawyer, Michael Monico, said his client has not cooperated with authorities.
“There is no agreement” for Kelly’s cooperation, Monico said. “And we will not seek one.”
*** 2:51 PM *** I had heard this was a possibility, since Genson seemed clearly out of his element in the House. But I didn’t have enough to run the story the other day…
The attorney for impeached Gov. Rod Blagojevich, Ed Genson, says he will not represent the embattled governor in his impeachment trial.
He is still representing the governor in the criminal allegations against him.
You almost have to wonder if this might be a delaying tactic by the governor. Whatever the case, there’s a schedule to maintain and whoever represents Blagojevich will have to abide by it.
*** 3:20 PM *** The entire team has quit in protest, according to the Tribune…
The legal team that has represented embattled Gov. Rod Blagojevich in impeachment proceedings in Springfield has stepped down in protest before the governor’s trial in the Illinois Senate, the Tribune has learned.
Blagojevich’s lawyers believe the process has become “fundamentally unfair” because they have had too little time to prepare for the Senate trial and have been denied subpoena power to call their own witnesses.
The governor’s lawyers had been asked to file an appearance on his behalf by Monday. The Senate trial is scheduled to begin on Jan. 26.
“I had never committed to the Senate trial, and I will not file an appearance,” said Ed Genson, who deferred further comment to a statement from the Adams.
*** 3:27 PM *** As I said on Don & Roma’s show this morning, this is just not true…
“I think the rules the Senate adopted are unfair,” Ed Genson said.
He complained the rules prevent him from calling witnesses and cross-examining witnesses called by the senators.
The rules adopted by the Illinois Senate are almost identical to those adopted by the US Senate for its trial of Bill Clinton. As you know, Clinton was not convicted. Genson is blowing smoke.
*** 3:36 PM *** NBC5 has updated…
Some speculate that means the governor may be thinking of resigning. Genson said that’s not true.
*** 3:38 PM *** Sam Adam, Jr. hyperventilates…
“It’s a kangaroo court,” Adam said. “You can’t possibly get any fairness out of it. It’s completely un-American.”
The trial is constitutional, so it’s quite American, Sam.
*** 3:50 PM *** OK, so it’s looking more and more like a ploy now…
Illinois Senate sources said that Blagojevich had instructed Genson not to file an appearance.
*** 4:01 PM *** Ed Genson said today that he couldn’t call witnesses, but that’s not true…
Requests for subpoenas for witnesses, documents, or other materials may be made by the House Prosecutor or by the Governor or his counsel in the form of a verified written motion submitted to the Chief Justice, and a copy provided to the Secretary. The motion must incorporate a showing that the subpoena is reasonably required to obtain information that cannot be obtained through voluntary requests for information.
And Genson’s nonsense about not being able to cross-examine witnesses? Ridiculous. Here’s the actual rule…
Each witness shall be examined by one person on behalf of the party producing that witness and then cross-examined by one person on the other side. The Chief Justice shall permit redirect examination and may permit re-cross examination.
*** 4:11 PM *** Now it’s a “lynching.” What a freak show…
In a statement, attorney Sam Adam and his son, Samuel E. Adam, said they couldn’t in good conscience represent the governor in a Senate trial “without any due process of law, fundamental fairness or the most basic right to confront one’s accusers.”
“We cannot and will not degrade our client, ourselves, our oaths and our profession as well as the Office of the Governor by participating in a Potemkin-like lynching proceeding, thus making it appear that the Governor is represented by competent counsel when in fact he is not,” the statement said.
Once again, these rules are almost identical to the US Senate’s impeachment trial rules. The lawyers are blowing serious smoke. Somebody in the mainstream media needs to point this out.
…Adding… Quitting like this is an old trial lawyer trick to get a mistrial. It ain’t gonna work. Subscribe to find out why.
*** 4:24 PM *** With a hat tip to a commenter, this is from the impeachment trial rules…
“(b) If Rod R. Blagojevich, after service, fails to file an appearance either in person or by counsel on the day ordered for filing an appearance or files an appearance but fails to file an answer to the articles of impeachment, the trial shall proceed, nonetheless, as if Rod R. Blagojevich had entered a plea of not guilty.”
* LOL…
You know if the governor was so concerned about the unfairness of the impeachment process spelled out in the Illinois constitution, he probably should have supported a constitutional convention and recommended overhauling it.
But he didn’t.
posted by Rich Miller
Friday, Jan 16, 09 @ 2:30 pm
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NBC is saying Gensen just quit Blago.
Comment by Been There Friday, Jan 16, 09 @ 2:41 pm
Interesting…with all those people lining up to cooperate and the recent revelations of four years of wire taps; Why would he not talk? Does he not have family that might miss him or need him or even care if he is locked up for eight years?
Seems that he cares little about those loved ones around him who are not profiting from the corruption. Yet another sad day….
Comment by Larry Mullholland Friday, Jan 16, 09 @ 2:43 pm
Wow! Genson must really have hated the Lincoln bedroom. Comeback now…ya hear?
Comment by James C. Burke Jr. Friday, Jan 16, 09 @ 2:48 pm
sorry, I forgot the link
http://click1.nbclocal.com/bngmzrvlp_ihfctdgcmb.html
Comment by Been There Friday, Jan 16, 09 @ 2:48 pm
NBC says Genson quit the impeachment trial. He’ll still represent the Governor for the criminal trial.
Comment by Anonymous Friday, Jan 16, 09 @ 2:50 pm
Is Blago going to defend himself before the Senate?
Comment by HoBoSkillet Friday, Jan 16, 09 @ 2:50 pm
Of course he’ll cooperate. What is the choice. Testify against a guy going down anyway and save yourself time already coming and prevent a future indictment against you or get sentenced to jail for a longer time and keep fighting a no win situation. His problem is he is running down the tracks trying to catch the train that has already left the station.
Comment by Phineas J. Whoopee Friday, Jan 16, 09 @ 2:51 pm
OK, so Kelly is headed for jail. Great pick Rod!
Genson is out as impeachment defense. Wow, Blagojevich is really showing his expertise in selecting the right people for the tasks he needs to do!
We had six years of this kind of administration. I am glad it is catching up with him.
Comment by VanillaMan Friday, Jan 16, 09 @ 2:58 pm
“Genson is out as impeachment defense. Wow, Blagojevich is really showing his expertise in selecting the right people for the tasks he needs to do!”
In the end, Genson was hired to keep RRB out of jail, not in office. I hope he fails at both….
Comment by Macoupin County Kid Friday, Jan 16, 09 @ 3:07 pm
Did Genson actually quit, or did Blago let him go?
If it’s the former, and Blago can’t line up anyone else in the next 4 days to represent him at the impeachment trial… he may be running out of options.
I suppose he still has Sam Adam (without the ’s’) but he probably wouldn’t be much help at an impeachment trial either. Heck, who would, since even Abe Lincoln didn’t have his law license yet the last time the GA impeached anyone
Comment by Secret Square Friday, Jan 16, 09 @ 3:10 pm
How long before Genson starts saying he quit because the Impeachment trial is rigged ect. I’m sure this is all a ploy. Blago may even resign and say it was all a fix anyway.
Comment by Phineas J. Whoopee Friday, Jan 16, 09 @ 3:16 pm
Kelly will either co-operate or face additional charges and indictments. We have not heard the last from Kelly
Comment by MOON Friday, Jan 16, 09 @ 3:21 pm
Is this cover for an upcoming resignation?
Comment by Macbeth Friday, Jan 16, 09 @ 3:21 pm
===How long before Genson starts saying he quit because the Impeachment trial is rigged ect===
He just did.
Comment by Rich Miller Friday, Jan 16, 09 @ 3:21 pm
“The entire team has quit in protest, according to the Tribune…”
Well my prediction didn’t seem to take long.
Comment by Phineas J. Whoopee Friday, Jan 16, 09 @ 3:22 pm
Rich…does this mean Genson, Adam and Sorkin (sp?) all quit or just Genson’s firm?
Comment by Commonsense in Illinois Friday, Jan 16, 09 @ 3:25 pm
My question is - Did Genson quit because he wasn’t or couldn’t get paid?
Comment by Huh? Friday, Jan 16, 09 @ 3:25 pm
===Well my prediction didn’t seem to take long. ===
I hope the resignation part doesn’t take as long as the five minutes the rest of your prediction did. Actually I would accept giving him until the end of the day if it actually happened.
Comment by Been There Friday, Jan 16, 09 @ 3:26 pm
He said the house hearings were rigged too but he didn’t quit then. What’s the dif?
Comment by casual observer Friday, Jan 16, 09 @ 3:27 pm
What’s the protest?
Comment by Levois Friday, Jan 16, 09 @ 3:28 pm
Roland Burris should have to defend Rod Blagojevich in the Senate trial. I can’t think of better justice for Burris and his beyond shameful acceptance of the Senate seat than having to defend Blago with TV cameras trained to him.
Comment by TaxMeMore Friday, Jan 16, 09 @ 3:31 pm
Another move that shows you how crazy Blago is. I bet now he doesn’t show up, nor does anyone representing him. Then he can claim he didn’t get a fair trial, blah, blah, blah.
I am wondering though is there any chance of the courts interfering in this? I would think (and hope) not since its a constitutional process.
Comment by he gone Friday, Jan 16, 09 @ 3:34 pm
Genson cannot affect the outcome.Even a brilliant attorney cannot stop the senate.His only option is to appeal to the future jury pool and to try to claim that the rules are unfair for purposes of an appeal.
Comment by chicago way Friday, Jan 16, 09 @ 3:35 pm
If Rod doesn’t respond to the Senate on Jan. 20 like he has been ordered, will they arrest him? Is that how he’ll steal thunder from the inauguration?
Comment by casual observer Friday, Jan 16, 09 @ 3:37 pm
I don’t think Rod will resign either, NBC, but can we really trust Ed “He won’t name a Senator” Genson on this one?
Comment by Concerned Observer Friday, Jan 16, 09 @ 3:38 pm
Well, this might speed up the proceedings.
Comment by Juice Friday, Jan 16, 09 @ 3:39 pm
“Some speculate that means the governor may be thinking of resigning. Genson said that’s not true.”
Um, as I recall, Genson also said Blago wouldn’t appoint anyone to the U.S. Senate.
Just sayin’.
Comment by This Guy Friday, Jan 16, 09 @ 3:39 pm
Also, I can’t stand how these guys keep thinking its a criminal trial. The “worst” that can happen to him is he looses his job, no jail time, no fine, just needs to find new employment. As the report said, this is not about punishing the person who is governor, it is about protecting the office.
Comment by he gone Friday, Jan 16, 09 @ 3:40 pm
As a Republican, I can’t believe what I am about to say here.
So here goes:
The Governor at least has a right to call his own witnesses in his defense, and should be allowed to subpoena those who would be reluctant to testify. That to me is “fair.”
Although I think he is falling faster than a lead balloon and will ultimately be convicted and removed, he should at least have the right to subpoena witnesses and documents.
I would think that the hearing officer would have the right to limit repetitious testimony that is cumulative in nature, to avoid the trial dragging on for months or centuries.
But to not allow him to call or subpoena his own witnesses in his own defense?
Comment by Louis G. Atsaves Friday, Jan 16, 09 @ 3:43 pm
And surprise, surprise, they called it a “lynching.”
Comment by Ron Burgundy Friday, Jan 16, 09 @ 3:45 pm
Huh - my thoughts exactly. Blago’s out of cash.
We were posting earlier on another subject about what would Blago to to upstage the innauguration. Hold on campers for more announcements as Tuesday gets closer. This may just be the tip of the iceberg. Can resignation be far behind?
Comment by Little Egypt Friday, Jan 16, 09 @ 3:46 pm
resignation is capitulation. This is not capitulation. This is a ploy.It serves an ulterior motive. What benefit would resigning give Blago.
Comment by chicago way Friday, Jan 16, 09 @ 3:50 pm
Guess by Adam’s statement I got my question answered. Here’s the thing, though. There is precedent to be tried in absentia. I think it applied to a federal judge back in the 70s, but I’m not quite sure. I do recall the court appointed an attorney to represent the guy, even though the guy on trial for impeachment wasn’t there, refused to participate and therefore had no defense entered. Wonder if President Cullerton has already had that angle figured out?
Blago quit? Never.
Comment by Commonsense in Illinois Friday, Jan 16, 09 @ 3:50 pm
Keep in mind Genson also said the Governor would never appoint anyone to fill Obama’s vacant senate seat. could he be wrong about resignation also?
Comment by Merit Comp Slave Friday, Jan 16, 09 @ 3:52 pm
Blago probably saw the bill for the House appearance and figured he needed to save some cash for the criminal aspect. He knows he can’t change the Senate vote, this way he can tell the criminal jury it was all political. Whatever speeds up the impeachment, I’m all for…
Comment by Vote Quimby! Friday, Jan 16, 09 @ 3:54 pm
I suspect this is now a countdown to resignation just prior to the opening of the impeachment trial, all aimed at the upcoming criminal trial.
The Governor knows what the outcome will be.
The Governor does not want witnesses called and tapes played in advance of the criminal trial.
He does not have the bucks for this anyway.
Sooooo,
1. Genson quits because the trial is rigged and unfair.
2. The entire legal team quits because the trial is rigged and unfair.
3. The Governor then resigns because the trial is rigged and unfair, and he graciously does not want to put the people of Illinois through the months of uncertaintly during his consitutional challenge in the federal courts after his removal. He will “save his case for the federal criminal trial.”
P.S. Let’s start the betting on whether he has contacted Sen. Cullerton seeking to negotiate a resignation for some weird sort of legislated pension protection. If nothing else, Blago has made clear he does not give things away.
Comment by Bubs Friday, Jan 16, 09 @ 3:57 pm
Is it just me or is there a pattern of Blago pulling stunts on Fridays or the day before a long weekend? Maybe someone has mentioned this before, and if so I apologize.
Comment by Porcupine Friday, Jan 16, 09 @ 3:58 pm
Does anyone know the status of the Fed’s attempt to freeze the campaign fund?
Comment by Not a lawyer, not even on TV Friday, Jan 16, 09 @ 3:58 pm
Perhaps this is how they teach law at peperdine?
Comment by OneMan Friday, Jan 16, 09 @ 4:01 pm
Atsaves, Genson apparently hasn’t read the rules. Go look at the update.
Comment by Rich Miller Friday, Jan 16, 09 @ 4:02 pm
If he resigns, it will happen Monday or Tuesday, and he will cite the following reasons:
1. Same as Bubs’ #3 above — impeachment process unfair, not worth putting state through this agony.
2. Removing himself as governor will enable state to “move forward” and take full advantage of the bailout offered by Congress and the new President. Doing it for the sake of the working people who need help, blah blah blah.
3. The one reason he WON’T cite publicly is, it gives him one last chance to stick it to Obama and steal his thunder on Inauguration Day.
Comment by Secret Square Friday, Jan 16, 09 @ 4:02 pm
The system cut my post — a request for a subpoena in the discretion of an elected judge doesn’t strike me as the same thing as a right to one, but I don’t know if you need to make the same kind of motions in criminal court or if you have the right to subpoena who you wish.
Comment by lake county democrat Friday, Jan 16, 09 @ 4:05 pm
If Rod and Genson think they can bluff their way out of this one they are sadly mistaken. This will go forward even if Rod files no motion to dismiss and even if he tries to represent himself before the Senate (oh wouldn’t that be FUN!).
Comment by Chicago Cynic Friday, Jan 16, 09 @ 4:06 pm
Again, these are almost exactly the same rules that were used for Bill Clinton. Clinton was exonerated under these rules.
Take a breath.
Comment by Rich Miller Friday, Jan 16, 09 @ 4:07 pm
===And Genson’s nonsense about not being able to cross-examine witnesses? Ridiculous.===
The question is will the rest of the media community report this the way Rich has? Or will they mainly quote Genson? My guess is that the public will read more quotes from Genson. He is trying to sway the jury pool already.
Comment by Been There Friday, Jan 16, 09 @ 4:09 pm
If he resigns I hope he steps into the black SUV and shows the v sign from both hands…
Comment by OneMan Friday, Jan 16, 09 @ 4:10 pm
I’ve just figured it out. Instead of trying to one-up Barack Obama on Tuesday, the Governor is doing his upstaging for the weekend coverage he’ll surely garner. Whadda guy…
Comment by Commonsense in Illinois Friday, Jan 16, 09 @ 4:13 pm
Right on page 11 of the trial rules “(b) If Rod R. Blagojevich, after service, fails to file an appearance either in person or by counsel on the day ordered for filing an appearance or files an appearance but fails to file an answer to the articles of impeachment, the trial shall proceed, nonetheless, as if Rod R. Blagojevich had entered a plea of not guilty.”
Comment by Juice Friday, Jan 16, 09 @ 4:15 pm
I think Bubs’s timeline is accurate, however, I think Blago will ask for a delay or postponment of the trial-get denied- and use that as another excuse for resigning.
As Bubs said, Blago doesn’t want witnesses and tapes played before a trial.
Comment by Phineas J. Whoopee Friday, Jan 16, 09 @ 4:17 pm
===thus making it appear that the Governor is represented by competent counsel when in fact he is not===
I know this is not what he meant but it reads kind of Freudian. I had to laugh over that.
Porcupine - Blago is not referred to as Governor Friday 5:00 p.m. Press Release for nothing. He’s been doing this for 6 years.
Comment by Little Egypt Friday, Jan 16, 09 @ 4:18 pm
“thus making it appear that the Governor is represented by competent counsel when in fact he is not”
I couldn’t have put it better myself, Sam.
Also, lake county: the motion for a subpoena is granted by a majority vote of the senate, not by the Justice, under the rules.
Comment by Barnum and Blago Friday, Jan 16, 09 @ 4:20 pm
Bubs forgot #4 –
#4. Rod Blagojevich runs for governor in 2010 to reclaim his job after scuttling the impeachment trial by quitting.
Comment by Segatari Friday, Jan 16, 09 @ 4:20 pm
i vowed not to read or post while I tried to work, but the radio just quoted Capitol Fax (cool, Rich) so i had to read, and…
Gee Rod, you’re learning all the ploys of the defense and trying to play them. switch attorneys. unfortunately, your side seems to resist learning that this process is not a criminal case, it is a creature of the legislature. they don’t have to grant you a continuance. please just resign and get this over!
Comment by Amy Friday, Jan 16, 09 @ 4:22 pm
Wow, 2:29 was about the time I decided to take a little siesta. In two hours, all of this happens. Does anything else think this whole mess could be over if I took another nap? LOL
Thanks for staying on top of all this Rich!
Comment by jwscott72 Friday, Jan 16, 09 @ 4:24 pm
Amy, which station?
Comment by Rich Miller Friday, Jan 16, 09 @ 4:26 pm
well Blago can solve his impeachment problem by resigning, something he should have done before. Good riddance.
Doug Dobmeyer
Comment by Doug Dobmeyer Friday, Jan 16, 09 @ 4:27 pm
There has to be more to the story than Genson, Adam, etc. are saying. Lawyers cannot simply withdraw from representation once they’ve started, unless the client has discharged them or they have some other problem with the client. Rules of Professional Conduct 1.16. The fact that a hearing is rigged is not sufficient in itself.
Comment by Anon Friday, Jan 16, 09 @ 4:27 pm
Bill, where art thou?
Comment by Little Egypt Friday, Jan 16, 09 @ 4:27 pm
I still say, as I’ve said all along, that he will strike a plea deal to save Patti. The deal will involve jail time and a resignation from office. but every day the governor has less and less leverage since his days in office are sadly numbered. This is kind of pathetic. I’m starting to think my legislator friend who predicted there will be no Senate trial was right on.
Comment by Chicago Cynic Friday, Jan 16, 09 @ 4:29 pm
So if Blago resigns will that allow him to keep his state pension(s)?
When he is impeached will he keep his state pension(s)?
When he is convicted will he loose all his state pensions or just that from his governor(less) years?
May be a reason he is wanting delays?
Comment by curoius george Friday, Jan 16, 09 @ 4:31 pm
Just another “up” day……
Comment by Joe Schmoe Friday, Jan 16, 09 @ 4:31 pm
WBBM, newradio 78 mentioned CapFax.
you’re haunting us Rich! mentions on CBS 2, visuals on WTTW, and now the radio. they keep drawing me back in…..
Comment by Amy Friday, Jan 16, 09 @ 4:31 pm
Did they use my Cullerton quotes? Those were funny.
Comment by Rich Miller Friday, Jan 16, 09 @ 4:34 pm
Anon 4:27-
Exactly.
Comment by Bubs Friday, Jan 16, 09 @ 4:36 pm
I think they did say something about Cullerton, but my mind kinda zapped at the mention of CapFax so i can’t truly recall.
it’s official….you’ve become City News. they owe you.
Comment by Amy Friday, Jan 16, 09 @ 4:36 pm
By the way, it really is insulting to all the people that did get lynched for these grand standers to keep comparing things not going their way to lynching. I mean really, find a new analogy because that one doesn’t apply.
How about caught?
Comment by Phineas J. Whoopee Friday, Jan 16, 09 @ 4:40 pm
I am with Amy 4:31 Rich is everywhere, he is destroying this ltittle club! Blago has at least one success story to tell his grandkids.
Comment by Anon3 Friday, Jan 16, 09 @ 4:42 pm
Even if he resigns, I think the trial should go forward so they can determine whether he could ever again run for office.
Comment by Phineas J. Whoopee Friday, Jan 16, 09 @ 4:45 pm
So if Blago resigns will that allow him to keep his state pension(s)? YES
When he is impeached will he keep his state pension(s)? YES - and, in case you haven’t been following the news, he has been impeached.
When he is convicted will he loose all his state pensions or just that from his governor(less) years? YES, BUT - Needs to be a felony conviction. GRyan tried the same trick and lost. He may be able to keep some or all of his Fed pension from his time in Congress? He is vested in the Congressional pension system, having served one more year than is necessary.
Comment by Six Degrees of Separation Friday, Jan 16, 09 @ 4:48 pm
Apparently he may be able to keep collecting the congressional pension, no matter what.
http://mediamatters.org/items/200808010001
Comment by Six Degrees of Separation Friday, Jan 16, 09 @ 4:50 pm
I have always felt that there is no way that any team of lawyers can prepare adequately to defend the Gov against a myriad of charges for actions going back several years unless they have a least a YEAR to do so. Gensen et al basically punted in the House and probably decided that, for what they are being paid, or not paid, they are not going to get into the morass of a Senate trial.
Even with Clinton, the facts were relatively simple compared to this. My faculty advisor from law school represented Clinton on the floor of the Senate, and died shortly thereafter.
Remember, OJ’s Dream Team only had to deal with one limited set of facts. The impeachment trial would be like handling 50 cases simultaneously, and with virtually no prep time. I don’t blame them.
Comment by MikeintheSuburbs Friday, Jan 16, 09 @ 4:50 pm
“it’s official….you’ve become City News. they owe you.”
Just a little something. It is Illinois. . .”you’ve got this thing and it’s *&^%ing golden. . .don’t give it up for *&^%ing nothing.” I’m just sayin’. . .
Comment by Lt Guv Friday, Jan 16, 09 @ 4:52 pm
Maybe…just maybe…reality is beginning to set in w/ Blago. Ahhh it’s just wishful thinking.
Comment by scoot Friday, Jan 16, 09 @ 4:52 pm
I guess you got your answer for the question of the day
Comment by anon Friday, Jan 16, 09 @ 4:52 pm
the appointments to the Reform group that Collins is heading are very interesting. includes: some involved in the topic…
Rev. Willis, Pam Davis. and the usual suspects, Anita Alvarez, David Hoffman, Sheila Simon, and Pat Fitzgerald…..the football coach! www.ReformIllinoisNow.org
Comment by Amy Friday, Jan 16, 09 @ 4:54 pm
===Maybe…just maybe…reality is beginning to set in w/ Blago===
No chance. lol
Comment by Rich Miller Friday, Jan 16, 09 @ 4:54 pm
did i skip over, no, mentioned him, and it may be surprising to some but not to me. you could say Pam Davis is surprising too since she wore a wire. i think the group is a great collection.
Comment by Amy Friday, Jan 16, 09 @ 4:59 pm
I just saw that Amy…a football coach? and the Rev Willis? Is he wanting headlines or what? I’m confused w/ the soon the soon to be Guv.
He needs to put serious reformers on their, that will argue for a limit on campaign contributions etc…How about a McCain-Feingold law in Illinois for starters!?
Comment by scoot Friday, Jan 16, 09 @ 5:01 pm
- Six Degrees of Separation - Friday, Jan 16, 09 @ 4:48 pm:
So if Blago resigns will that allow him to keep his state pension(s)? YES
When he is impeached will he keep his state pension(s)? YES - and, in case you haven’t been following the news, he has been impeached.
to clarify…If he is convicted by the Senate will he keep his state pension??
Comment by curoius george Friday, Jan 16, 09 @ 5:01 pm
I agree scoot. It’s a bizarre collection of people.
Comment by Chicago Cynic Friday, Jan 16, 09 @ 5:02 pm
Lol another website brought to you by Pat Quinn…well whatever works.
Comment by scoot Friday, Jan 16, 09 @ 5:05 pm
Anon - @ 4:27 pm: I don’t think that professional conduct rule applies since Genson, et al., haven’t actually entered their appearance in the Senate proceedings.
Comment by Cheswick Friday, Jan 16, 09 @ 5:11 pm
So much for the Kelly thread, but there are a lot more people worried about what Kelly says than there are about what Blago’s lawyers do.
Comment by Phineas J. Whoopee Friday, Jan 16, 09 @ 5:11 pm
scoot, what makes you think the group is not a collection of serious reformers? David Hoffman….frozen out at City Hall, he certainly knows the drill. Pam Davis wore the wire. Rev. Willis has been through an entire case (his own) and he knows the ins and outs. the Boeing investigative counsel. Sheila Simon from a family well known for reform and integrity. Anita Alvarez LOTS of crime busting. Pat Fitzgerald….well that one is different. But Collins did say he wanted to get other kinds of folks involved and Fitzgerald grew up here. and if you know anything about sports, a two time winner of two defensive player of the year awards in college indicates one tough guy. (sorry, serious sports fanatic, though I would have found Ozzie on the panel to be wrong, Sox fan though I am.)
Hanke Gratteau….yikes! she’ll know where lots of the bodies are buried.
some may think it strange that Cindy Canary is not on the list.
the truth is, we need more ideas and more straightforward ideas.
of course it may get confusing around here….Pat the soon to be governor, Pat the U.S.Attorney, Pat the reform chair, and Pat the coach. very amusing, but, I think they are on the right track.
Comment by Amy Friday, Jan 16, 09 @ 5:21 pm
“- MikeintheSuburbs - Friday, Jan 16, 09 @ 4:50 pm:
I have always felt that there is no way that any team of lawyers can prepare adequately to defend the Gov against a myriad of charges for actions going back several years unless they have a least a YEAR to do so. The impeachment trial would be like handling 50 cases simultaneously, and with virtually no prep time. I don’t blame them.”
So, they weren’t smart enough to know all that at the beginning??? Lawyer up, I guess.
Comment by sal-says Friday, Jan 16, 09 @ 5:24 pm
For clarification, the Rule of Professional Conduct applies both to matters before a tribunal and “other matters”.
Comment by Bubs Friday, Jan 16, 09 @ 5:25 pm
Pardon my ignorance but I just don’t see how Blago’s resignation would/could have any impact on Fitz’s case. I really don’t see how it’s such a bargaining chip - he’s going down either way. If he resigned Fitz would still proceed with the criminal trial. With regards to protecting Patti - I don’t see how Blago’s resignation has anything to do with Patti’s potential criminal proceedings. What’s wrong wit dat line of thinking?? I know something is - but can’t finger it out!!!
Comment by Toni H. Friday, Jan 16, 09 @ 5:31 pm
I just want to point out that Sam Adam’s reference to a “potemkin-like lynching” is a very confused historical reference.
Potemkin was a fake village built to convince Catherine the Great and her court that the peasants were doing swell and just couldn’t be happier. Kind of like Rod’s phony (or potemkin-style) health care and veterans programs that either don’t actually sign up any beneficiaries or don’t improve access to care because providers don’t get paid.
A “potemkin-like lynching”, I suppose, would be a fake lynching designed to falsely convince on-lookers that the victim is really dead. Hmmm … maybe this is how Rod is planning his escape!
Comment by Kasha varnishka Friday, Jan 16, 09 @ 5:34 pm
[…] (h/t Rich Miller, whose signature phrase “Bite me” is quite a propos.) Possibly related posts: (automatically generated)GOP skirts Congressional ethics rules to aid Lyin’ OberweisBarbados Government Against Witness Intimidation - Unless Done By Powerful …False Impression Is False WitnessA WITNESS Blogroll […]
Pingback by Blago’s lawyer flat-out lying about Senate impeachment trial « Illinois Reason Friday, Jan 16, 09 @ 5:40 pm
curious George-
to clarify…If he is convicted by the Senate will he keep his state pension??
Yes, unless followed by a felony conviction arising from acts relating to office.
Comment by Six Degrees of Separation Friday, Jan 16, 09 @ 5:52 pm
Cutting to the chase - He, his wife and his pension are all toast, BUT all in good time, folks, all in good time. Rich’s budget forecast requires 2 1/2 to 3 more months to allow him sufficient income for his new digs.
Comment by A Citizen Friday, Jan 16, 09 @ 6:01 pm
Amy instead of politicians like Shelia Simon & Anita Alvarez, instead of a college football coach, & the Rev Willis…why not Mike Lawrence, Dr. Kent Redfield, & even Rich Miller??
I have a world of respect & gratitude to Pamela Davis, and she earned her way on…but it’s all a headline grab for Quinn. Quinn was waay out in front on Gov Ryan fighting corruption, and Quinn was waay behind being outspoken w/ his running mate Gov Blago…until the arrest.
This is a talented group of individuals and they are respected in their communities, but it’s a lil bizzare to me.
Comment by scoot Friday, Jan 16, 09 @ 6:26 pm
With Kelly pleading guilty what’s the disposition?
So far everyone associated with Operation Board gaves has gone down. There are just three hold outs left: Cellini, Hurtgen and Blago.
Something like 10 of the 13 have pled guilty, were convicted or are cooperating. Fitz is Batting 1000%.
Comment by GofGlenview Friday, Jan 16, 09 @ 6:28 pm
Yes, unless followed by a felony conviction arising from acts relating to office.
We hope Durbin won’t be asking Obama for a commutation, either.
Comment by Macbeth Friday, Jan 16, 09 @ 6:39 pm
Rich - you might want to consider the Gnarls Barkley Crazy You-Tube clip sometime http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SDWMVEEqQ_8&feature=related It really reminds me of Blago!
Comment by Toni H. Friday, Jan 16, 09 @ 8:05 pm
The “rats” just keep juming off the sinking ship!
Comment by Dan S, a Voter, Taxpayer & Cubs Fan Friday, Jan 16, 09 @ 8:25 pm
On January 14, 2003 at around 10:45 am Blago fired a few people.
Blago described those terminated as unqualified hacks, henchmen, cronies and can you believe he said these fine public servants were “part & parcel to a conspiracy to commit fraud”. None of which was true & they were awarded their jobs back.
Governor: I think is more appropriate example unfairness. Don’T ya think?
Comment by Larry Saturday, Jan 17, 09 @ 12:17 am
Adam is the Jackie Gleason of lawyers.
“Don’t steam me, Cullerton! Don’t steam me! Bang, zoom! Homana, homana, homana.”
Comment by wordslinger Saturday, Jan 17, 09 @ 12:07 pm
Lynching: noun
putting a person to death by mob action without due process of law
The use of this noun by Blago and Burris apologists in recent weeks is despicable.
Comment by wordslinger Saturday, Jan 17, 09 @ 12:25 pm
another weak stunt by the Gov. And, yes, the Potemkin reference shows just how weak Adam’s grasp of history is.
as Kasha varnishka alluded, the only Potmekin villages around this state were the ones created by Blagojevich to portray his administration as “normal”, “ethical” and “fighting for people”.
If he sticks to this (which I doubt–he’ll flip flop again) but if he presents no defense I guess the trial and vote can be over very quickly.
Comment by "low level paper pusher" Saturday, Jan 17, 09 @ 3:04 pm
Rich, the update has answered most of my concerns. My thanks for that.
Yet, if Federal prosecutors do not want certain witnesses testifying and can in effect “veto” their presence through subpoena or otherwise, then what in the world was Chief of Staff Emmanuel doing on the weekend talk shows babbling that his contacts with the Blagojevich team were not inappropriate?
If he can talk about it on a Sunday talk show, then I guess he can talk about it through testimony before the Illinois Senate?
Comment by Louis G. Atsaves Monday, Jan 19, 09 @ 7:48 am