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Impeachment committee, Day 3 *** And other updates ***

Thursday, Dec 18, 2008 - Posted by Rich Miller

* 4:18 pm - Majority Leader Currie just announced the committee will adjourn today and then reconvene Monday at noon. “I would be prepared for two days, as you know we’re off Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.”

Adjourned.

* 3:43 pm - Rep. Franks said he thought the governor’s failure to testify at the hearing might be used against him. Chairperson Currie said Franks was speaking for himself and that it was not as of yet the position of the committee.

* 3:39 pm - I missed this. Chicago Public Radio overheard Genson and Adam discussing walking out of today’s proceedings…

At one point, another one of Blagojevich’s attorneys, Sam Adam Jr., could be overheard suggesting to Genson that they walk out of the impeachment hearings. It seemed to be said quietly enough that members of the panel could not hear—but the mics on the table picked up the exchange.

Genson replied to Adam “No I’m not walking out” adding “you can walk out.”

Adam then said to Genson, “No if we do it, we do it as a team,” and dropped the suggestion.

* 3:22 pm - Washington Post: Illinois Panel Hears Testimony on Blagojevich’s Conduct… SJ-R: Auditor general says he’s troubled by administration

* 2:59 pm - More attempts at normalcy…

Governor Rod R. Blagojevich today signed a law that extends the Medical Practice Act until 2010. Recognizing the necessity in providing quality healthcare in Illinois, Senate Bill 2179 continues the regulation of physicians and ensures that no licenses for practicing doctors in Illinois will expire at the end of the year.

* 2:56 pm - We’re now onto the flu vaccine disaster. Holland claims, rightly that the administration knew the purchase was not legal.

Holland: High ranking Illinois officials appeared to be aware that the vaccine would probably never be delivered.

* 2:54 pm - CLTV has some raw video from earlier today.

* 2:52 pm - Tribune: Healthcare director dodges questions at impeachment hearing

* 2:44 pm - Holland: “Procurement code was violated on a routine basis.”

* 2:40 pm - Rep. Lang wonders whether these audit findings demonstrate incompetence or a pattern of abuse of power. Holland: That’s not for me to determine.

Lang: Purposeful or slipshod work by staff? Holland: On occasion purposeful, on occasion slipshod staff, sometimes overworked staff. His history with DHFS always shows a “real struggle to get routine information.”

* 2:27 pm - Quote of the day goes to Lucio…

Gov. Rod Blagojevich has no plans to address the public today, despite having said Wednesday he would, according to his spokesman… Blagojevich spokesman Lucio Guerrero said the governor may talk Friday or next week.

“He is not jerking you around,” Guerrero told reporters at an afternoon news conference.

* 2:19 pm - Holland is now talking about IPAM, which didn’t exist as a corporation when it was given a $30 million state contract. The contract was an utter mess and Blagojevich slammed Holland over his investigation.

* 2:07 pm - I just looked at the blog’s traffic report for the past week. Wow. Thanks, people!

* 2:02 pm - Auditor General Bill Holland is now testifying. He said he can’t testify on the Loop Lab School controversy because the audit isn’t finished yet. The reason? “We’re having trouble finding out who was actually responsible.”

* 1:56 pm - Fran Eaton is following this thing almost sentence by sentence. The SJ-R “blog” is being updated far less frequently.

* 1:43 pm - Genson interview on MSNBC…

Well, the case is a fairytale, the process is a witchunt. The fact of the matter is, uh, I don’t know that Illinois is doing itself any credit. In the light of the scandal, in the light of the problems that the image of the state of Illinois is having, it seems to me that to put together a process, which deprives, uh the governor of any sort of rights whatsoever, does not do Illinois proud. […]

[Regarding some committee members] Because a good majority of this panel has gotten up since the panel has started, and made speeches against, uh, the governor. that’s not what you call due process, that’s not what you call a neutral forum… They, they don’t, they don’t belong on this panel.”

* 1:24 pm - Genson’s mic was left on during the break and I’m pretty sure I just heard him say regarding a message from someone else: “Tell her the truth, I’m stuck in this stupid hearing.” [Two commenters also heard him say this, so I struck out the “I’m pretty sure” stuff]

* 1:22 pm - Ten minute break.

* 1:21 pm - We blogged this down below and now AP has moved a story… Blagojevich attorney: Wiretaps were illegal

* 1:19 pm - Genson tried to cross-examine a previous witness, but was continually shut down by the committee. “I’ve been sitting here for hours listening to that and I asked six questions and I’ve had four objected to.”

* 1:02 pm - The governor’s attorney Samuel Adam just tried to ask how many lives were saved in Illinois as a result of the governor going around JCAR. The question was disallowed.

* 12:56 pm - It’s a mystery to me why these aggressively evasive testifiers from DHFS are not being threatened with contempt.

* 12:40 pm - Genson just assented when asked if the federal wiretaps and recordings were “illegally obtained.” He then added, “We have no proof or indication that this wiretap complied [with federal law]… Without giving us an opportunity to contest it, the admission of [the wiretap evidence] is unacceptable… and illegal.”

Rep. Fritchey: “The intercepts were authorized [by a judge]… It’s my opinion that the authorization was proper.” Genson: “Your opinion is wrong, with all due respect.”

* 12:35 pm - Rep. Franks: Do you consider yourselves rogue employees, or were you taking specific directions from the governor’s office (to go around JCAR and the GA)? Who made the decision and when was it made? Answer: No real answer. Sheesh.

* 12:17 pm - Rep. Lang pretty much summed up his view on whether the administration’s decision to create a health care program without legislative approval was an impeachable offense: “You did not follow the law.”

* 12:10 pm - Man, these DHFS people are getting creamed on just about every issue. Evasiveness pervades, and Rep. Lang is having none of it.

* 11:57 am - Feds: Winston & Strawn can’t represent Bill Cellini

* 11:46 am - Fran Eaton is doing a pretty darned good live-blogging job. Click here.

* 11:35 am - The G has warned Blagojevich that if he withdraws money from his campaign fund, they’ll demand a forfeiture if he’s eventually convicted…

Attorney Michael Ettinger represents Blagojevich’s brother, Rob Blagojevich, who is chairman of the Friends of Blagojevich fund.

Ettinger says a letter he received from federal prosecutors this week warned that if money is withdrawn from the fund, the government will ask that it be forfeited and returned if Blagojevich is convicted.

* 11:23 am - ABC’s Sam Donaldson believes the governor shouldn’t be impeached and removed from office unless he is first convicted at a criminal trial…

As far as the criminal complaint goes — heavy on allegations, light on evidence — many defense lawyers point out that merely talking about committing a crime (selling a Senate seat, for example) may not be prosecutable without evidence that specific acts were taken in furtherance of such an intent.

The governor is on tape ordering his subordinates/pals to make calls to further his schemes. That’s the evidence.

But just as it has been wrong in recent years for this country to throw due process and the rule of law overboard in the name of combating terror, it would be wrong to throw it overboard in the name of quickly ridding Illinois of an alleged corrupt governor.

Read the Illinois Constitution, Sam. Sheesh.

* 11:06 am - AG Madigan has now formally denied taxpayer funds for Ed Genson’s defense of Rod Blagojevich in both the criminal and impeachment cases.

* 10:51 am - Via PI, CLTV has some unedited video of the impeachment committee proceedings from the past two days…

Day One (15:06)
Day Two, Pt. One (24:51)
Day Two, Pt. Two (6:23)

* 10:24 am - While we listen to the droning testimony about administrative rules and such, I thought I’d share what I believe to be the best lede of the day, from Patterson at the Daily Herald…

Gov. Rod Blagojevich is a jabbermouth who talked big but never actually did anything, so there’s no grounds to remove him from office, his attorney told lawmakers investigating impeachment.

Patterson also had the best closing…

At the end of Wednesday’s proceedings, [Genson] asked lawmakers to carefully review the documents before them and ask themselves two questions: Is it enough? Is it time?

But that could prove to be a miscalculation as numerous state lawmakers say this governor has abused his power for too long and must be stopped now. The vote to create the impeachment panel was 113-0.

* 10:14 am - Oy. I just saw Sneed’s column today…

The governor, a relentless runner, reportedly surprised feds when, upon entering his home, he began jogging in place — and then lying down in the fetal position. He reportedly repeated the frenetic exercise several times.

* 10:11 am - Genson is still having trouble distinguishing between a courtroom and an impeachment proceeding. He just called Rep. Currie “Your honor.”

* The impeachment committee meets today at 10 o’clock. Listen or watch the proceedings by clicking here.

I’ll be back in a minute with a news roundup. Use this thread to talk about yesterday’s impeachment proceedings and to live blog today’s events.

…Adding… Here’s the roundup…

* Lawyer: Governor was all talk, no action

* Blagojevich strikes back

* Blagojevich lawyer addresses lawmakers

* Rod Blagojevich’s lawyer calls impeachment effort a “witchhunt”

* Blagojevich attorney says gov can’t get fair shake from impeachment panel

* Was impartial impeachment panel too hard to find?

* No smiles, not even from governor’s foes, at hearing

* Blagojevich lawyer Genson rips into hearing

* Illinois Supreme Court Rejects Call To Declare Blagojevich Unfit

* All spin, all the time from governor

* Dear Governor, … you send the message

* Can’t we just pay gov to take a hike?

* Get Packin’, Rod Blagojevich

* Blagojevich and Satan ‘ s soul talk

* Blagojevich arrest sparks market for merchandise

       

255 Comments

  1. - tubbfan - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 9:55 am:

    Genson is a smart guy, but by putting forth all of these legal stumbling blocks, he’s only making a lot of noise. There is no hope of him winning over public sentiment, few will feel that the Gov is being unfairly treated. Lots of noise = a weak case.


  2. - legal scholar - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 9:56 am:

    Commence freak show in 3… 2… 1…


  3. - Captain Flume - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 9:59 am:

    I posted this on a thread early this morning that is now part of yesterday’s blog posts, but I thought worth re-posting here. I found this a website about the U.S. Constitution. If the analysis below is correct, then Mr. Genson’s complaints about due process and impeachable offenses and threatening suit because the Illinois Constitution’s impeachment article is unconstitutional may be just lots of lawyer bluff, which he is good at.

    ” . . . impeachment is simply the process by which the individual can be charged with an offence - they are innocent until proven guilty. And it also doesn’t mean that they will be removed from office. It simply means that they will face a formal trial in the Senate.

    Impeachment proceedings can be brought for any offence - there is no requirement in the Constitution that it can only be for “treason, bribery, or other high crimes and misdemeanors”; these are merely the circumstances under which removal from office is obligatory - although, because the process is so cumbersome and time-consuming, it is rarely used and is limited to “treason, bribery, or other high crimes and misdemeanors”.

    The whole business of impeachment gave those writing the Constitution no end of headaches. There was a strong voice saying that it was unwise to allow the President to be impeached, because it would make him too dependent on the (partisan) legislature, particularly as, at that time, they were the people that elected him in the first place. But Benjamin Franklin disagreed, suggesting that impeachment was better than the alternative - assassination! His view prevailed, although they further struggled over the wording of the conditions for removal from office - in the first draft, it was “neglect of duty, bribery, maladministration and corruption”.


  4. - Six Degrees of Separation - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 10:04 am:

    “neglect of duty, bribery, maladministration and corruption”.

    A Perfect 4.0 GPA!


  5. - Esteban - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 10:04 am:

    “Kerfluffle” is also defined as “a type of flatulence that is silent and lacking scent”.


  6. - Pot calling kettle - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 10:19 am:

    It will be interesting to see how Gensen can object to this panel’s presentation. It’s completely outside his area of expertise.

    I’m sure he’ll have some sort of blather.


  7. - chiatty - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 10:21 am:

    Everybody knows that the governor “looks bad” in just about every aspect of this story. The House Committee will surely be just the vehicle to make him look “good” or at least sympathetic, because this group gives all appearances of being well out of its depth.


  8. - Levois - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 10:23 am:

    Hmmm, I wonder what that behavior was about.


  9. - VanillaMan - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 10:26 am:

    ==The governor, a relentless runner, reportedly surprised feds when, upon entering his home, he began jogging in place — and then lying down in the fetal position. He reportedly repeated the frenetic exercise several times.==

    We have Ritalin for that, don’t we?


  10. - Amy - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 10:27 am:

    So this is Ed Genson and the screaming younger Adams. how does any jury member buy their act? fluffy, nasty, arrogant. they may be sorry they came out of the confines of the land without cameras.


  11. - Ghost - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 10:28 am:

    Levois, maybe the Gov thought he could tunr invisible like that charcater in the old tv series soap.


  12. - wordslinger - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 10:32 am:

    I find the Sneed item below-the-belt and sinister.

    If true, it seems to me it could only have come from the arresting feds or someone they related the story. By seeking to humiliate Rod more than Rod has already humiliated himself, they’re taking the low road.

    We give the feds a lot of power. But with that, they should operate with great responsibility. I think they should stay off radio gabfests, not leak to gossip columnists and just do their jobs.


  13. - Rod sez I'm pork - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 10:32 am:

    “And then lying down in the fetal position. He reportedly repeated the frenetic exercise several times.”

    Did he say wooh wooh wooh while doing it? It might have been an homage to Curly.


  14. - Bill - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 10:33 am:

    When is she going to testify that JCAR is an unconstitutional abuse of ppwer by the GA and an attempt to usurp the power of the executive branch of gov’t?


  15. - Pot calling kettle - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 10:33 am:

    ==The House Committee will surely be just the vehicle to make him look “good” or at least sympathetic, because this group gives all appearances of being well out of its depth.==

    What? The Committee has been doing pretty well so far. I think yesterday was a nod to the Federal charges, but the meat will be over the next few days when they go after the Gov. for overreaching the bounds of his office.


  16. - Pot calling kettle - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 10:34 am:

    If the JCAR is an abuse of leg power, why did the Gov. support it and expand it’s authority?


  17. - Bill Baar - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 10:35 am:

    Genson ought to ask who in DOJ is leaking this stuff about the Gov to Sneed. It’s night right.


  18. - Bill - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 10:35 am:

    Rod never was very good in constitutional law.


  19. - How Ironic - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 10:36 am:

    The Heaviest Element Known to Science

    Lawrence Livermore Laboratories has discovered the heaviest element yet known to science.

    The new element, Governmentium (Gv), has one neutron, 25 assistant neutrons, 88 deputy neutrons, and 198 assistant deputy neutrons, giving it an atomic mass of 312.

    These 312 particles are held together by forces called morons, which are surrounded by vast quantities of lepton-like particles called peons.z

    Since Governmentium has no electrons, it is inert; however, it can be detected, because it impedes every reaction with which it comes into contact. A tiny amount of Governmentium can cause a reaction that would normally take less than a second, to take from 4 days to 4 years to complete.

    Governmentium has a normal half-life of 2-6 years. It does not decay, but instead undergoes a reorganization in which a portion of the assistant neutrons and deputy neutrons exchange places.

    In fact, Governmentium’s mass will actually increase over time, since each reorganization will cause more morons to become neutrons, forming isodopes.

    This characteristic of morons promotion leads some scientists to believe that Governmentium is formed whenever morons reach a critical concentration. This hypothetical quantity is referred to as critical morass.

    When catalysed with money, Governmentium becomes Administratium, an element that radiates just as much energy as Governmentium since it has half as many peons but twice as many morons.


  20. - Bill Baar - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 10:36 am:

    not right….sorry


  21. - Anon - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 10:42 am:

    Suggestions for where I can get audio or video? I logged in late and the GA web site is full.


  22. - How Ironic - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 10:43 am:

    Is WUIS in Springfield casting it? They did yesterday.


  23. - the Other Anonymous - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 10:44 am:

    I looked up the statute Genson read earlier about the use of information resulting from wiretaps. Basically, the section is part of the US Code dealing with the procedure for wiretaps by law enforcement authorities. It says that if the wiretap is illegally obtained (or released), it cannot be used in evidence.

    There is no indication that the wire on Blagojevich was anything but legally obtained. And the use of the affidavit is authorized revealing the information is authorized by the Code. So, the release of the information is proper and can be used in evidence.

    Genson may be persuasive in front of juries — he doesn’t appeal to me at all, but whatever — but it’s pretty clear to me that he is not good at understanding the law.


  24. - S. Illinois - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 10:44 am:

    CNN.com is streaming live video.


  25. - zzzzz - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 10:47 am:

    For someone who has been in state government for so many years, she sure doesn’t know how to testify before a committee. She definitely thinks highly of herself though.


  26. - Pot calling kettle - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 10:48 am:

    Not to mention that the Committee (and the Senate) set their own rules for proper evidence. If they wish, they can pick whatever they want for evidence.


  27. - Bill - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 10:52 am:

    She’s gonna read her whole term paper no matter what anyone says. Who does she think she is? Typical staffer arrogance!


  28. - He Makes Ryan Look Like a Saint - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 10:55 am:

    OMG Get ON with it this is so BORING


  29. - the Other Anonymous - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 10:57 am:

    Pot, actually in this case if the wiretap was improperly disclosed the Committee could not choose to use it as evidence. Because the law regarding federal wiretaps is a federal law, the US Constitution’s supremacy clause applies, and the federal law trumps any state action.

    The basic problem, though, is that Genson has to show that the wiretap was improperly obtained and/or improperly disclosed. And there is nothing to indicate the wiretap was improperly used or disclosed.


  30. - legal scholar - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 10:57 am:

    As someone who isn’t watching, who is “she” that is reading the term paper


  31. - Bill - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 11:00 am:

    …one of “my” members…
    unbelievable


  32. - Louis G. Atsaves - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 11:02 am:

    After struggling yesterday with the il.gov site, I latched onto CNN.com, which is also covering it live (on the internet). The camera work and audio is outstanding as compared to the il.gov site which kept cutting out on me.


  33. - ANON - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 11:06 am:

    New definition of Rod–Megalomania (from the Greek word μεγαλομανία) is a historical term for behavior characterized by delusional fantasies of wealth, power, genius, or omnipotence - often generally termed as delusions of grandeur or grandiose delusions.


  34. - Canseco - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 11:07 am:

    Wow, the cnn.com feed is awesome. Highly recommended. You can find it right on the homepage.


  35. - Bill - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 11:09 am:

    Why is Gidwitz testifying? Does his background as a perfume salesman make him some kind of expert in the role of the executive branch in administration of government programs?


  36. - Canseco - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 11:15 am:

    Does Larry have a Bluetooth ear piece on his right ear?


  37. - i am watching it - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 11:20 am:

    Oy- Some of this is very dry.


  38. - Captain Flume - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 11:21 am:

    I’ve tuned in late. Does Rep. Black have his fresh underwear yet?


  39. - OneMan - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 11:28 am:

    Her parents worked two jobs, what does have to do with Fritche’s question?


  40. - wordslinger - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 11:30 am:

    Who’s the redhead and what’s she scared of?


  41. - the Other Anonymous - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 11:30 am:

    So the Governor’s legal counsel was making health care policy, according to Tammy’s testimony. That’s a load of bull . . . Fritchey’s follow up question about who else she dealt with in the Governor’s staff on health care policy is right on.


  42. - How Ironic - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 11:33 am:

    OMG, Larry DOES have a Bluetooth headset on! What a class act. I will buy Rich a drink at the Alamo if he takes a call during the hearing.


  43. - Little Egypt - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 11:40 am:

    Does anyone in the room have a roll of duct tape? This guy is Blago reincarnated.


  44. - Captain Flume - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 11:44 am:

    Just read that the Feds say that dan Webb cannot represent Bill Cellini. Conflict of interest vis a vis Thomas Rosenberg.


  45. - the Other Anonymous - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 11:47 am:

    It’s too bad that Director Maram is put in this situation of looking like an obstructionist. He’s one of the better agency directors, but he’s coming off as hiding something.


  46. - Carbon Deforestation - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 11:47 am:

    These people refusing to answer Fritchey’s questions is completely unacceptable. Aren’t they state employees? They should answer the question, tell the truth. Their job is not to protect the Governor. Get her Lou!


  47. - wordslinger - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 11:48 am:

    Sam Donaldson? I though he was sharing a room at the Cryonic Inn with Ted Williams and Walt Disney.


  48. - Mo - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 11:48 am:

    Is this an SNL skit?


  49. - OneMan - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 11:51 am:

    I thought the response to the FOIA is we are not going to provide the information.


  50. - Mo - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 11:52 am:

    CLTV went to commercial. What did Lou say after that person whispered in his ear?


  51. - Anonymous - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 11:54 am:

    Word — The “redhead” is Tammy Hoffman, HFS chief of staff.


  52. - How Ironic - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 11:56 am:

    I think I owe Rich a beer. Looks like Mr. Bluetooth just took a phone call. While at the table. Very classy.


  53. - wordslinger - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 11:58 am:

    Yeesh, you’re the director or chief of staff and you don’t know who initiated a program in your department? And it cost $6.8 million? Are you kidding me? Why would you say that?


  54. - Bill - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 11:59 am:

    Tammy should just shut up. She just makes it worse for herself.


  55. - Bill - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 12:00 pm:

    Lol!!


  56. - Chambananon - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 12:01 pm:

    Wow, Lang is tiiiicked.


  57. - Former State Employee 2 - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 12:02 pm:

    She forgot the Governor was at the meeting???


  58. - OneMan - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 12:02 pm:

    Have to agree with Bill on this…


  59. - How Ironic - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 12:03 pm:

    Tammy is getting killed. Go Lang. Hold her feet to the fire.


  60. - Bill - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 12:06 pm:

    She is disagreeing with her own lawyer.


  61. - Chambananon - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 12:07 pm:

    That was hilarious. She seemed almost gleeful to correct her own people there….. and throw herself back into the frying pan in the process. ::facepalm::


  62. - the Other Anonymous - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 12:08 pm:

    Oy. Tammy Hoffman’s repeated mantra that the only conversations she’s had were privileged is making her and the department look bad. All the “I don’t recall” and “counsel was present” and “this is subject to litigation” makes it looks like she’s hiding something.


  63. - Bill - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 12:09 pm:

    Barry is keeping his mouth shut so far. He’s not falling for Lang’s trap. Tammy on the other hand is really hurting herself. She just cannot shut up.


  64. - OneMan - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 12:09 pm:

    That’s privileged…


  65. - Blago Sphere - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 12:10 pm:

    I had a heavy night of trading action and over-slept. I just woke up to tune in to listen to this circle jerk just in time to hear Lou Lang.

    Does anyone get the feeling that he thinks he is auditioning for the part of Chuck Schumer. Maybe the U.S. Senate would be a good place for him. He could be the go to Designated Filibuster guy to work the overnight shift.

    Good Grief Charlie Brown!


  66. - Chambananon - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 12:11 pm:

    LOL — “what did the court say?” “I believe that’s privileged”


  67. - Size 14s - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 12:14 pm:

    Wow. Their ignorance is breathtaking. You can understand why Lang is angry. They won’t give a straight answer to any question. If Lou asked “does the sun rise in the east?” they would waffle.


  68. - Bill - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 12:14 pm:

    I said that years ago, Lou.


  69. - Chambananon - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 12:15 pm:

    Someone needs to get a smarter cookie from that department up there — Tammy can’t stop digging holes, and the director just looks clueless.


  70. - i am watching it - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 12:17 pm:

    Why didn’t they name the program All God’s Kids Lou!


  71. - Bill - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 12:17 pm:

    These two are the best and the brightest in that agency.


  72. - Chicago Cynic - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 12:17 pm:

    I’m no defender of Rod and support impeachment, but Lang just turned this into a Kangaroo court.


  73. - Amy - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 12:18 pm:

    i agree with Lang’s questioning direction, and decry the lack of information from Hoffman (and that she cannot stop talking) but Lang looks nuts. it does not serve him well. yes, it sure does look like an SNL skit. who plays Lang?


  74. - Chambananon - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 12:21 pm:

    Cynic — Not a particular fan of Lang getting loud myself, but I respectfully disagree — seemed to me that he refused to let the two get away with a series of evasive statements and ridiculously weak excuses. My .02.


  75. - Been There - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 12:21 pm:

    I always thought Tammy was in way over her head. But my God, she is getting whacked hard. They need to put her out of her misery. Terrible job by the attorney letting her carry on.


  76. - Carbon Deforestation - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 12:22 pm:

    Is that Chapin Rose? I am somewhat surprised that Rose and Jil Tracy got appointed to this committee.

    Madigan made a point of appointing members with seniority. Some of Tom Cross’ appointments are great, but some of them seem like they are not the brightest bulbs in their caucus.


  77. - the Other Anonymous - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 12:23 pm:

    Lang just turned this into a Kangaroo court

    I have to disagree. I think he asked coherent questions to which he got incoherent responses. If anything, Maram and Hoffman’s attempts to claim attorney-client privilege to everything mock the proceeding.


  78. - Bill - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 12:24 pm:

    Why doesn’t Barry order her to shut up? She keeps graabbing the mike and making things worse for herself. She just keeps digging a bigger hole.


  79. - Bill - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 12:27 pm:

    Phrase of the day:
    …who initiated the initial initiation…


  80. - Mo - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 12:27 pm:

    Why don’t they just lay the blame on the Gov.?


  81. - Bill - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 12:28 pm:

    Lang is a cupcake compared to Rose.


  82. - Carbon Deforestation - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 12:29 pm:

    Rose knows a thing or two about cupcakes.


  83. - Pot calling kettle - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 12:29 pm:

    Gosh, we have no idea who makes decisions around here! Could be anybody!


  84. - Chambananon - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 12:30 pm:

    Ahahaha. Chapin: “You went ahead and did it against JCAR’s decision, didn’t you?” “That’s subject to litigation” “NO it isn’t — you either did or you didn’t! That’s not subject to litigation”


  85. - LN - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 12:31 pm:

    Bwahahaha….”I have no idea who initiated the initial initiation.” Looks like the SNL writers can take the week off. BTW, Rep. Bost shaved! Wow.


  86. - Chambananon - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 12:31 pm:

    Is “appropriately paying bills” the fiscal version of “sorta pregnant”?


  87. - Pot calling kettle - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 12:35 pm:

    …Lot’s of people at the meetings, I can’t say who made the decision…

    So, if a janitor passed through the room and said go for it, I suppose he could have been the key decision-maker.


  88. - Chambananon - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 12:35 pm:

    Franks is my hero: “Are you rogue employees? Or were you taking direction?”


  89. - Size 14s - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 12:37 pm:

    “Who made the decision?”

    “I don’t want to speculate.”

    ??????? Perhaps a Clerk III in the billing unit?


  90. - Pot calling kettle - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 12:40 pm:

    Why ask Gensen a question?


  91. - the Other Anonymous - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 12:41 pm:

    Back to the wiretaps — now Genson is talking about procedures applicable to the court use of wiretaps, not other use.


  92. - Bill - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 12:44 pm:

    Black forgot his question.


  93. - Been There - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 12:45 pm:

    The reps who are switched out or taking a break are very good at picking their seat locations in the audience. Right behind Genson so they are guaranteed to be on camera.


  94. - Chambananon - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 12:45 pm:

    Black: “I visited with my pharmacist yesterday, and he wants to commend you on the efficiency of the Medicaid payments… before he files for bankruptcy next month.”

    Not sure whether to laugh or cry…. at least Black hasn’t gone histrionic yet, though.


  95. - He Makes Ryan Look Like a Saint - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 12:48 pm:

    Basically, either Blago broke the law, or HFS. He is pretty inept as a director based on these answers.


  96. - Bill - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 12:50 pm:

    Barry should fire Tammy as soon as they get back to the office.


  97. - Chambananon - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 12:50 pm:

    Hahaha “we’re hopeful that they’ll be paid” “well so are they!”


  98. - Chicago Cynic - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 12:51 pm:

    Cmon, these guys are in an impossible position. Rod is still governor and they still work for him. How are they supposed to give the committee answers in the way they want them and still keep their jobs. How about a little empathy.

    They are not Rod and they’ve generally done a very good job. He just put them in a really crappy, crappy position.


  99. - Mo - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 12:53 pm:

    Tina Fey we have another role for you…


  100. - Rich Miller - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 12:54 pm:

    ===How are they supposed to give the committee answers in the way they want them and still keep their jobs.===

    Because they are under oath and are duty bound to tell the truth. Protecting their boss’ behind is not part of this equation. They should be held in contempt if they continue this evasion.

    As public servants they are obligated to uphold the constitution. Nobody took an official oath to defend the governor.


  101. - the Other Anonymous - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 12:55 pm:

    Cynic, the writing is on the wall: Blagojevich will not be Governor much longer. The issue for Maram is whether to act with honor — i.e., not be evasive — and lose his job now; or continue to be evasive and end up at the top of list for Governor Quinn to replace.

    Yes, it’s not fair; and yes, he’s in this position because of Blagojevich. But that’s life, and it’s a shame that he is put in this position because he’s one of the better agency heads. But he still, imo, chose the wrong way to approach this hearing.


  102. - Mo - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 12:55 pm:

    Why don’t they just storm their offices before the shredders are turned off?


  103. - unclesam - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 12:55 pm:

    Rich, is there any way you can get Tammy to say: “Oh look, a kitty!”?


  104. - Size 14s - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 12:58 pm:

    Who is Tammy gesturing to offscreen? A member of the Committee?


  105. - Bill - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 12:59 pm:

    All she really had to do is sit there and shut up. It seems like she just can’t help herself.


  106. - Canseco - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 12:59 pm:

    You can always count on Mary Flowers to add her, uh, unique spin.


  107. - LN - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 1:02 pm:

    Did I just see a CapFax??? In the hands of the woman walking behind Rep. Flowers???


  108. - wordslinger - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 1:03 pm:

    I don’t get the motivation behind the testimony at this point.

    You took an oath to tell the truth. Are you going to stick with a story that you don’t know who initiated a $6.8 million program in your department? Think of yourselves, people.

    Correct me if I’m wrong, but hasn’t the governor already publicly taken credit for it many times? Who do they think they’re protecting?

    At this point, do you think the governor is going to fire you for testifying fully and truthfully?


  109. - Chambananon - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 1:04 pm:

    What a dumb stunt by Sam Adams there….


  110. - the Other Anonymous - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 1:04 pm:

    I think Currie flubbed by disallowing Adams’s question. If they answered specifically, it would just underscore how evasive they were on other issues. If they were evasive, the question loses all effect.

    Adams only won this rather tiny skirmish because the question was disallowed.


  111. - Cranky Old Man - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 1:14 pm:

    Chicago Cynic, those people may have paid good money for their jobs. They don’t want to miss out on any paychecks…..on a more serious note, it would be painfully obvious if they were fired after giving up the gov. Not that that would stop him from firing them. They do need to be absolutely truthful, though.


  112. - Chambananon - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 1:15 pm:

    How do you view that as any sort of win for Adams? Every one of those legislators saw right through the question as an attempt at a courtroom stunt — he didn’t sway anyone to Blago’s side with that…


  113. - A Citizen - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 1:15 pm:

    Perhaps Sam Adams was asking how many lives were saved by George Ryan emptying death row.


  114. - Captain America - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 1:16 pm:

    Impeachment upon any other grounds than the federal tapes is probably not in order. Clearly the Governor has engaged in a conspiracy with others to extort money (or behaviors) from a hospital executive, the Tribune, and Senatorial nominees. I’m not sure why they are wasting time on this “historical stuff.” The tapes speak for themselves and are sufficient to impeach the Governor and remove him from office.Impeachment is a political decision, and its a simple matter of judgment and conscience as to whether the Governor’s recent actions,which prompted the feds to intervene before the Governor’s conpsiratorial sshemes were actually consummated, make him unfit to continue in office. Personally, I think it’s a “no brainer.”

    Clearly federal rules of evidence/procedure do no apply to a political decision to impeach and remove a Governor from office. Legal standards like beyond a reasonable doubt or preponderance of evidence are irrelevant to the impeachment process.

    Common sense suggests that the Governor’s conduct is beyond the pale and warrants removal from office. Leave it to the courts to determine his guilt or innocence using the beyond a reasonable doubt standard.


  115. - priorities - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 1:20 pm:

    My feeling is that HFS’s number one priority is the FamilyCare lawsuit.

    Their testimony won’t change the outcome of the impeachment, but could change the outcome of the trial.


  116. - Gabriel - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 1:21 pm:

    ==Cmon, these guys are in an impossible position. Rod is still governor and they still work for him. How are they supposed to give the committee answers in the way they want them and still keep their jobs. How about a little empathy.==

    If this view is widespread we have a real big problem.

    The employees serve the people of the state, not the Governor.


  117. - Size 14s - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 1:23 pm:

    Captain, you miss the point. Impeachment on ANY GROUNDS (including which jogging suit Rod chose to wear this morning) is perfectly in order. This is a POLITICAL proceeding, not a judicial one.


  118. - Chambananon - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 1:24 pm:

    Ahahaha…. the convo after the recess was called….. “tell her the truth, tell her I’m stuck here at this stupid meeting” — anyone identify the voice on that one?


  119. - Little Egypt - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 1:24 pm:

    Am I the only one who thinks Gensen’s sounding pretty ridiculous? I’d actually like to see the side of him that would throw a little theatrics into the situation but I haven’t seen any yet.


  120. - Bill - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 1:24 pm:

    If they want to keep their jobs they better serve the governor.


  121. - Pot calling kettle - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 1:25 pm:

    On the CBS feed, you can hear Gensen and Adams talking…Gensen: “…Tell her I’m stuck at this stupid hearing.”

    No one is compelling him to be there!


  122. - Stu - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 1:25 pm:

    As they went to break the open mike caught someone saying “Tell her the truth, I’m stuck in this stupid hearing”
    Can anybody identify that voice?


  123. - Rich Miller - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 1:25 pm:

    Stu, that was Genson.


  124. - HoBoSkillet - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 1:25 pm:

    Chambananon - I heard the same thing. Could it have been one of Blago’s attourneys?


  125. - Cranky Old Man - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 1:25 pm:

    Stu, it was Gensen.


  126. - Little Egypt - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 1:25 pm:

    Bill, they’re going to lose their jobs, period. They’re just trying to get another paycheck before Christmas.


  127. - How Ironic - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 1:25 pm:

    Hot Mic!

    Gensen speaking to an assistant overhead on the CNN feed:

    Gensen: “Tell them the truth, I’m not in the office…I’m stuck in this stupid hearing”… Then CNN cut off the audio feed.

    Pretty funny.


  128. - Pot calling kettle - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 1:27 pm:

    ==Their testimony won’t change the outcome of the impeachment, but could change the outcome of the trial. ==

    I don’t see how saying that the Governor made the decision would change the outcome of the lawsuit.


  129. - Chambananon - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 1:29 pm:

    If there wasn’t such a painfully tragic reason to be having a hearing in the first place, this would be practically stand-up comedy…


  130. - Gabriel - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 1:29 pm:

    Incidental theatrics from Genson? I’ll take it.


  131. - Bill - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 1:30 pm:

    The special assistant attorney general representing Maram and Tammy should refund his $200/hour to the state. He was useless. Didn’t he prepare them at all?
    I’ll do it for free. Just answer yes or no. Tell the truth. Don’t volunteer anything. Just answer yes or no. Whatever you do don’t engage the reps.


  132. - A Citizen - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 1:31 pm:

    “…with all due respect…” seems to have a rather low threshold here.


  133. - ChiCountryGuy - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 1:32 pm:

    The vid from foxnews.com is much better than the ILGA feed. Just an FYI.


  134. - Chambananon - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 1:34 pm:

    CNN feed is still the best I’ve found out there.


  135. - Bill - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 1:35 pm:

    No one came back from break. There are only 2 or 3 members present.


  136. - Pot calling kettle - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 1:37 pm:

    They should turn off Gensen’s mic.


  137. - Blago Sphere - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 1:39 pm:

    I am not sure as non-elected public servants they are duty bound to uphold the constitution, because I don’t think they undertake an oath of office to do so. I am not even sure a pre-employment application questions whether they have even readd it; or understand it.

    Their testimony her is obviously under oath however, and they have no excuse for evasive responses because they are protected against retaliation under:

    (5 ILCS 430/)
    State Officials and Employees Ethics Act.

    5 ILCS 430/Art. 15
    ARTICLE 15
    WHISTLE BLOWER PROTECTION
    (Source: P.A. 93‑615, eff. 11‑19‑03.)

    (5 ILCS 430/15‑10)
    Sec. 15‑10. Protected activity. An officer, a member, a State employee, or a State agency shall not take any retaliatory action against a State employee because the State employee does any of the following:

    (1) Discloses or threatens to disclose to a
    supervisor or to a public body an activity, policy, or practice of any officer, member, State agency, or other State employee that the State employee reasonably believes is in violation of a law, rule, or regulation.

    (2) Provides information to or testifies before any public body conducting an investigation, hearing, or inquiry into any violation of a law, rule, or regulation by any officer, member, State agency, or other State employee.

    (3) Assists or participates in a proceeding to
    enforce the provisions of this Act.
    (Source: P.A. 93‑615, eff. 11‑19‑03; 93‑617, eff. 12‑9‑03.)


  138. - Arthur Andersen - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 1:39 pm:

    Some of these people have a real “hot mike” problem. One or two inadvertently, others seemingly every time they open their yapper. Portions of this testimony should be required viewing for all new Directors and top aides.


  139. - Size 14s - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 1:40 pm:

    Constitutional appointees (Directors and Assistant Directors) are confirmed by the Senate and do take an oath of office.


  140. - Little Egypt - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 1:43 pm:

    I’ve not had the TV on but the WGNTV.com feed is really good.


  141. - I knew it before term one - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 1:45 pm:

    As to the dopey argument that Gensen made that it was illegal to bring in the criminal complaint and affidavit, here is what he cited:

    18 USC Section 2515. Prohibition of use as evidence of intercepted wire or oral communications.

    Whenever any wire or oral communication has been intercepted, no part of the contents of such communication and no evidence derived therefrom may be received in evidence in any trial, hearing, or other proceeding in or before any court, grand jury, department, officer, agency, regulatory body, legislative committee, or other authority of the United States, a State, or a political subdivision thereof if the disclosure of that information would be in violation of this chapter.

    Note the last clause. Here’s where he’s off kilter: If the disclosure of the tapped calls is illegal for the House committee to hear, it would also be illegal to have been submitted to the federal court as the basis for the complaint. Dumb beyond measure. He’s grabbing at straws.


  142. - Bill - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 1:45 pm:

    Why is Thomas allowed to give value judgements that are merely her opinions as to the quality or lack thereof of the adiministration’s responses? This woman has a serious csae of exagerated self importance. Now she is relating hallway gossip.
    She is just a politically hired staffer not an elected official.


  143. - Pot calling kettle - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 1:45 pm:

    Who said that? Tammy Hoffman.

    priceless.


  144. - Been There - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 1:46 pm:

    ===How are they supposed to give the committee answers in the way they want them===
    I can’t believe they weren’t taking the 5th. If you don’t want to answer just go that route. Doesn’t mean your guilty but now their tesitmony can be used against them. I would be worried about more than just my job.
    Also, I agree with Bill. The attorney didn’t earn his $200 per hour. Shut them up!


  145. - Blago Sphere - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 1:50 pm:

    Is Tammy Hoffman a constitutional appointee confirmed the Senate?


  146. - Carbon Deforestation - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 1:51 pm:

    who is this person talking? who are her “members” ?


  147. - Hoping for Rational Thought - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 1:51 pm:

    No she is not


  148. - Former State Employee 2 - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 1:51 pm:

    Chief’s of Staff are not confirmed by Senate.


  149. - Pot calling kettle - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 1:52 pm:

    Everyone is appearing voluntarily, the testimony they are giving is not compelled. I do not know if that makes a difference.


  150. - enn - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 1:54 pm:

    Carbon Deforestation: she is Vicki Thomas, executive director of JCAR. I assume her members are the General Assembly members who sit on that committee.


  151. - Hoping for Rational Thought - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 1:54 pm:

    Been There - The 5th wouldn’t apply would it? This isn’t a criminal proceeding. Regardless, silence would have been a better approach. Maram and Hoffman are good people who find themselves in a no win situation that could have been handled much better.


  152. - OneMan - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 1:57 pm:

    He chose sick kids…


  153. - Hoping for Rational Thought - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 1:58 pm:

    Is it just me or is Vickie Thomas ushing it with her answers? Pointing the finger at Hoffman and reporting “off-the-record” conversations? Who will talk to her “off-the-record” ever again.


  154. - Chambananon - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 1:58 pm:

    Currie: “We’re not that kind of Jury”

    Priceless.


  155. - Little Egypt - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 1:58 pm:

    Sam Adams - does he have an original thought that isn’t that of Blago’s? Will someone please take his microphone away from him?


  156. - Rich Miller - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 2:00 pm:

    ===Maram and Hoffman are good people who find themselves in a no win situation that could have been handled much better. ===

    Agreed.


  157. - Carbon Deforestation - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 2:00 pm:

    Looking forward to Bill Holland’s comments!


  158. - Rich Miller - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 2:00 pm:

    The witnesses swear that the testimony they’re about to give will be the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth. The problem with the DHFS testimony is we didn’t get the whole truth and it was far from nothing but the truth.


  159. - hisgirlfriday - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 2:01 pm:

    Bill Holland woo!


  160. - Reality Check - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 2:04 pm:

    Why feel sorry for these people? They could have resigned long ago. Or even this morning. Instead, they chose to shill and cover for Rod even up to the present moment. The whole crowd deserves whatever they get.


  161. - Gabriel - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 2:05 pm:

    Has a witness actually used their 5th Amendment rights in this hearing?

    Are they exercising these rights? Article 1, Section 7, of the IL Constitution.

    ==SECTION 7. INDICTMENT AND PRELIMINARY HEARING
    No person shall be held to answer for a criminal offense unless on indictment of a grand jury, except in cases in which the punishment is by fine or by imprisonment other than in the penitentiary, in cases of impeachment, and in cases arising in the militia when in actual service in time of war or public danger. The General Assembly by law may abolish the grand jury or further limit its use.
    No person shall be held to answer for a crime punishable by death or by imprisonment in the penitentiary unless either the initial charge has been brought by indictment of a grand jury or the person has been given a prompt preliminary hearing to establish probable cause.==


  162. - Not a lawyer but... - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 2:05 pm:

    Is Genson tipping his hand to the Feds as to how he’ll approach the criminal case? Should he just skip this ‘administrative employment hearing’ and just focus on Fitzgerald’s party, and not worry about whether or not the governor keeps his job?


  163. - OneMan - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 2:11 pm:

    Go Bill, I think we just got our grounds for removal in the last 5 minutes…


  164. - Arthur Andersen - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 2:14 pm:

    IPAM..here comes the grand slam.


  165. - OneMan - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 2:15 pm:

    Looking forward to Genson objecting to the existence of the state Auditor…


  166. - Carbon Deforestation - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 2:18 pm:

    Rich re: your traffic report - can you tell how much of that traffic is from those of us who are obsessed and just visiting hundreds of times per day and how many clicks are unique visitors ?

    The thing that Holland said about the Loop Lab School should be a big red flag for Fitz and crew.

    That alone should be grounds for impeachment. Nobody accepts responsibility for a missing $1 million check? Didn’t Blago blame it on some un-named “administrator” I’m starting to think that is Blago code language for “my chief of staff” . . .


  167. - Been There - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 2:20 pm:

    I don’t know if the 5th applies here or not. But I wouldn’t have answered they way they did earlier. Just refuse. Maybe they could be fired by the gov for some reason if he thought they should be defending him, but I’d risk my job before possible legal problems.


  168. - Rich Miller - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 2:23 pm:

    ===can you tell how much of that traffic is from those of us who are obsessed and just visiting hundreds of times per day and how many clicks are unique visitors===

    Yes.


  169. - hisgirlfriday - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 2:23 pm:

    thanks jack franks for illustrating why Blagojevich should have been impeached and/or seriously challenged by the Democratic party before he was even re-elected.


  170. - RJW - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 2:24 pm:

    ==thanks jack franks for illustrating why Blagojevich should have been impeached and/or seriously challenged by the Democratic party before he was even re-elected.==

    Exactly. Illinois voters re-elected the Governor knowing some of these things already.


  171. - Been There - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 2:25 pm:

    ===That alone should be grounds for impeachment===
    I think there are going to many of these types of past allegations testified to here. And most them by themselves will be grounds for impeachment. My guess is Genson hasn’t realized how deep these problems go. He is probably only up to snuff on what is in the criminal complaint.


  172. - Carbon Deforestation - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 2:30 pm:

    Chambanon is right, CNN feed is good. ILGA feed is like the Rathskeller. CNN feed is like Portillo’s.


  173. - RJW - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 2:31 pm:

    I can tell you from personal experience that the Governor’s office demands to review agency audit responses prior to them being submitted to the Auditor General and they edit responses.


  174. - Gabriel - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 2:41 pm:

    ==Is Genson tipping his hand to the Feds as to how he’ll approach the criminal case?==

    Why is Genson even representing Blagojevich in the impeachment proceedings? Is he defending the Governor from the Feds or the State Politicians? Which would you think is more important?

    On the Lab School, Fitzgerald probably already knows about it. The school relocated to a building owned by an FBI mole on recommendation from Tony Rezko.


  175. - Carbon Deforestation - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 2:42 pm:

    RJW - that’s what this committee needs to hear! They need an agency head to come tell the truth.


  176. - From the Sidelines - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 2:42 pm:

    “I just looked at the blog’s traffic report for the past week. Wow. Thanks, people!” You are the most reliable and detailed source for information at the Capitol. The thanks goes to you. I have referred many people to the blog for background and for current information over the years.


  177. - RJW - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 2:46 pm:

    Meisrow and John Filan are this/close


  178. - Rich Miller - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 2:47 pm:

    I prefer the audio feed.


  179. - Arthur Andersen - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 2:49 pm:

    Franks just can’t hold back any longer.


  180. - disgusted Illinoisan - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 2:49 pm:

    The HFS testimony was incredibly evasive. The Director was non responsive and I am not quite sure why several posters describe him as a good agency director. He is generally pretty incompetent, which is the reason the agency has so many Holland audits and why they have been dragged into all the Governor associated mischief. Gov goes to him because he will do exactly as asked where other directors won’t eg. ISAVE got moved to HFS from CMS - Whitaker and CMS both wouldn’t touch it.
    Tammy didn’t mention whether Jay Hoffman was in the meetings with the Gov, Sheila Nix, Krista Donahue, Quinlan etc discussing what they could do with existing authority, but I bet he was.


  181. - Captain Flume - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 2:54 pm:

    The Governor has signed SB2179. It was just sent to him yesterday. The approval must be some kind of record.


  182. - hisgirlfriday - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 3:06 pm:

    Again the flu vaccine was before he was re-elected. Too bad the House didn’t just impeach Blago in 2005/06 to derail his reelection bid.


  183. - 618er - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 3:09 pm:

    Wow, it is amazing how much better prepared the Auditor General is compared to the DHFS director and chief of staff.


  184. - Arthur Andersen - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 3:11 pm:

    AA is with you on the audio, Rich. It ain’t like the video is HD and we’re looking at something of visual interest. No offense, Gen. Holland.


  185. - Been There - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 3:12 pm:

    ===Meisrow and John Filan are this/close ===
    Genson brought up who was behind IPAM. Holland stated it was Meisrow. Genson asked if anyone else were owners and Holland said yes, New Frontier. Genson was going after the point that even though IPAM was not even incorporated at the contract date, the companies behind IPAM were established firms. What didn’t come out is that New Frontier is a Cellini company. Not sure Genson would have wanted that to come to light.


  186. - Carbon Deforestation - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 3:13 pm:

    True, but the audio feed won’t tell you that Mike Thomson is wearing a pink shirt today.


  187. - Rich Miller - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 3:14 pm:

    I’d rather avoid that, thanks. lol


  188. - Carbon Deforestation - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 3:15 pm:

    Been There - you underscore the point that Genson doesn’t even know what he is defending Blago against on some of these issues. NO WAY his client told him the truth about all the wrongdoing because he can’t even remember it all. Genson may be a fighter, but he’s going to lose this one.


  189. - Cranky Old Man - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 3:24 pm:

    Carbon, I’m sure blago won’t be truthful with his lawyer, but the guy to have heard and/or read the Fitzgerald info.


  190. - Captain Flume - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 3:30 pm:

    I doubt if that New Frontier reference a few minutes ago did not get written down in a few people’s notes for future reference. I wonder if Genson already knew of that connection.

    I also wonder how many of the Governor’s staff, and Genson’s, are monitoring this blog.


  191. - hisgirlfriday - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 3:32 pm:

    what is genson talking about with isaverx not being on the agenda?

    And for the last time is it Genson with a Jeh sound or Genson with a Geh sound?


  192. - Chambananon - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 3:36 pm:

    I just have to say I had respect before for the Auditor, but wow, he knows his stuff, and seems utterly honest. Holland for Guv?


  193. - Chambananon - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 3:40 pm:

    Genson keeps saying “I understood that this was not on the agenda” but I think it’s becoming rather clear that he DIDN’T understand….


  194. - Chambananon - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 3:45 pm:

    Geez Flowers is clueless… she still thinks we’re currently importing the drugs right now…


  195. - VanillaMan - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 3:45 pm:

    Once again Gerson is making emotional points and not addressing the testimony Holland provided.

    No one is arguing the spin Blagojevich used to justify his decisions. We are discussing whether those decisions were unlawful. We are discussing administrative negligence verging on criminal. What the Governor said to excuse his actions are pointless within the frame of this discussion.


  196. - Southern Illinois - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 3:48 pm:

    Rep. Franks asked Genson if he could send written questions for Blag to answer… Louanner Peters was invited but did not choose to.. I think she is hiding in Corrections these days.


  197. - VanillaMan - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 3:49 pm:

    ==Genson replied to Adam “No I’m not walking out” adding “you can walk out.”

    Adam then said to Genson, “No if we do it, we do it as a team,” and dropped the suggestion.==

    The Governor’s lawyers are down to PR stunts and since those stunts are being exposed, both Gerson and Adams are exposed as well.


  198. - enn - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 3:49 pm:

    Do the exhibit links at http://ilga.gov/house/committees/Reports.asp?CommitteeID=758 work for anyone else? I’d like to see some of the exhibits, but all the links are broken.


  199. - Chambananon - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 3:54 pm:

    Gerson being honest “I don’t know much about this” regarding basically the entirety of Blago’s defense, and the acts of mal/mis/non/etc feasance committed…

    In over his head much?


  200. - Bimbo redhead - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 4:00 pm:

    I challenge anyone with all of the hot air to do a better job. Sorry to disappoint that we could only tell the truth under oath. I care very much about this state and the people of Illinois and healthcare. But, I was not going to jeopardize a pending case and I made it clear that I had no idea about the scope of privilege. We were invited by letter - not subpoena and appeared voluntarily to try to get as much on the record that we could. FACTUALLY. We got those letters yesterday afternoon. I know that it is not in anyones best interest to comment here. Sorry I couldn’t supply any chum to your feeding frenzy. I wasn’t about to make statements on a record under oath that I wasn’t certain of. What did you have for lunch two years ago. You have 12 hours to remember!!


  201. - Bimbo redhead - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 4:00 pm:

    By the way, I’m taking vacation time. For the record.


  202. - Michelle Flaherty - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 4:05 pm:

    You weren’t asked what you had for lunch. you were asked who told you to expand health care policy, a health care policy that the administration was screaming from the rooftops was the greatest friggin thing ever. Suddenly you and BM can’t recall who came up with this great idea?
    Forgive me and others for not believing you Col. North.


  203. - S. Illinois - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 4:06 pm:

    With 12 hours notice you can’t remember who ordered you to unlawfully move forward with a multi-million dollar expansion of health care coverage after JCAR had ruled it improper? If you can’t remember that, I’m surprised you remember your own name.


  204. - Been There - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 4:08 pm:

    Tammy. I was asked to testify. Not going to. My Monday morning quarterbacking advice to you would have been the same. As you said, you were not supoenaed. What are they going to do if you didn’t show? Fire you?


  205. - Rich Miller - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 4:09 pm:

    OK, campers. If that was Tami, she had a rough enough day without more abuse here. The point has been made and effectively counted.

    Move along.


  206. - Bimbo redhead - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 4:13 pm:

    I wanted to do what I thought was the right thing. I can only speak for myself and I am not speaking in my professional capacity. And, for goodness sakes, it’s TAMI - short for Tamara. I am not afraid of being fired. But, I would rather show and be protective of information that could get me sanctioned or that was not truthful than try to please people who just wanted me to look bad. I had many conversations with many attorneys as we proceeded and, sorry, I really don’t remember at this time what those conversations were. I can tell you that I wasn’t told by the Governor. I can look in the mirror in the morning. The Governor NEVER asked me to do anything unlawful.


  207. - Blago Sphere - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 4:13 pm:

    Those links did not work for me with Firefox, but did work with Internet Explorer. I don’t know why; but you might try IE if you are not using that.


  208. - Bimbo redhead - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 4:15 pm:

    Thanks Rich. But, I’m tired of reading some of this crap - not all - and just taking it when we have worked as hard as we have. I realize it it foolish to take the bloggers bait. But, I REALLY have nothing to hide!!


  209. - Canseco - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 4:17 pm:

    Not a bad cross of Jay Steward by Adams.


  210. - Been There - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 4:18 pm:

    Canseco, I agree.


  211. - Captain Flume - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 4:23 pm:

    It would seem that nearly every lawyer in this state owes at least a debt of gratitude to the Governor, (but a cautious debt as to how it may be paid). He and his office have certainly made it possible for high powered Chicago attorneys and “poor country lawyers” to turn a few bucks in fees and retainers.


  212. - Blago Sphere - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 4:23 pm:

    If Bill Black only has one clean pair of shorts left, I guess he’ll just have to turn them inside out for Tuesday then.


  213. - Southern Illinois - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 4:23 pm:

    All the way to the Illinois Supreme Court for an FOIA request. Thats using the taxpayers money wisely.


  214. - How Ironic - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 4:24 pm:

    So, does Gensen and Blago have a “Come to Jesus” talk for the next 2 days? I think he signed on thinking that the impeachment was going to focus on the criminal complaint. I think that will just be the tip of the iceberg. There are 6 years of slime to cut through.

    And does Rod resign before Monday?


  215. - Been There - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 4:25 pm:

    Tami. I wasn’t trying to be harsh with you. Just giving my opinion and some after the fact legal advice from a non-lawyer. There was no upside for you personally to be there. But I give you a lot of credit for telling the truth.


  216. - Bimbo redhead - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 4:45 pm:

    Thanks Been There. I am done after this one. I appreciate the free flow of ideas and even the least informed have the right to be heard. This is the ONLY time that I have ever engaged like this and I am doing so in my personal rather than professional capacity. I have served under several governors and always tried to do my best. No one ever told me that I had to be silent - professionally, obviously, I have an obligation to exercise caution as appropriate. And, I do. I take pride and am VERY good at my job.


  217. - A Citizen - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 5:13 pm:

    - Bimbo redhead -
    You showed up voluntarily and took the heat respectfully. I’d give you a 10% MC raise for that. Putting yourself in that arena couldn’t have been easy.


  218. - Little Egypt - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 5:23 pm:

    Bimbo - you agreed to provide the committee with LOTS of information by the end of the day. Your time would be better spent doing exactly what you were asked to do rather than get on this blog and try to defend your sad performance today. I don’t believe you are who you say you are. The real Tami would be up to her eyeballs right now digging through documents on her very messy desk.

    Hisgirlfriday - it’s with a Juh.


  219. - no plan B - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 5:27 pm:

    It’s a treat to see Genson and Adams out of their element - stumbling and unable to function. Kind of like how a pro se would be treated when in court with them.

    Did anyone else notice Rep Gordon nodding off behind Rep Mautino?


  220. - Pot calling kettle - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 5:30 pm:

    BR: I appreciate your testimony, but someone had to make the decision to go forward with the Gov’s plan. It seems reasonable to ask who that was, and it seems that a controversial run around the GA would require assent from the very top. When you and the director could not seem to remember, that appeared to be a little far fetched. It looked like you were shielding the Gov. because, logically, that kind of decision would be his to make.

    I wish you well; it’s unfortunate you were caught in the middle of this.


  221. - Amy - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 5:35 pm:

    report on WBBM radio that Genson pronounces his name two ways….a reporter actually called him on it. both Gen and Jen. says his family does it one way and him another but sometimes he varies it. OY.


  222. - former state employee 2 - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 5:36 pm:

    Sorry I can’t site to poster upthread as there are too many posts and I’m working on BB re I save and Whitaker not wanting it. That is false Whitaker would have taken it but his GC strongly advised him not to


  223. - Bookworm - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 5:37 pm:

    A lot of people put in long hours this week getting ready for these hearings. Hope they can all relax and take a breather this weekend before the show starts again.


  224. - Be Nice to Mike - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 5:47 pm:

    === Carbon Deforestation - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 3:13 pm: True, but the audio feed won’t tell you that Mike Thomson is wearing a pink shirt today. ===

    Mike Thomson is man enough to pull off any color shirt. I think he looked fabulous.


  225. - Seen this before - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 6:03 pm:

    BRH: “I take pride and am VERY good at my job.”

    Interesting self-assessment. Although, perhaps the JCAR memebers who questioned you earlier this week would have a different opinion…as would many who watched or listened to your testimony this afternoon. I too am familiar with your professional abilities, and while you’re not quite John Harris / Bob Greenlee good, you and BM are certainly loyal to a fault. Have a great vacation - you’ve earned it.


  226. - Pomerium Ultra - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 6:16 pm:

    Genson is staying at the Governor’s Mansion. Sigh…


  227. - Genson - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 6:21 pm:

    Pomerium Ultra

    How do you know Genson is staying at the Governor’s mansion?


  228. - Rich Miller - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 6:23 pm:

    Must’ve read it in Capitol Fax this morning.


  229. - Pomerium Ultra - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 6:27 pm:

    WICS ran the story on the evening news.


  230. - Big Mama T - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 6:31 pm:

    With Genson’s sense of self-importance I am sure he feels he has every right to take over the Governor’s mansion. Who is paying for his stay there?


  231. - Rich Miller - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 6:31 pm:

    Well, they subscribe, too.


  232. - wordslinger - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 6:32 pm:

    Tami, (or Tammy) if you were the one that was testifying earlier today, stop talking and certainly stop blogging.

    Take a deep breath, button your lip, and start looking out for yourself. No one is after you, but I don’t think any of your superiors are looking out for you, either.

    Be a friend to yourself.


  233. - Quizzical - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 7:00 pm:

    –Genson is staying at the Governor’s Mansion. Sigh…–

    They really are running a charm offensive. Maybe Genson is trying to get this thing rushed through the House so Emil gets to preside (or not preside) over the trial. I wonder what the account balance of favors is between Rod and Emil right now.


  234. - wordslinger - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 7:09 pm:

    Watching Genson and Adams today, and after watching the “bigfoot” lawyers in the Family Secrets Trial, and after watching Webb defend Ryan here and Kwame in Detroit…

    What a bunch of self-serving blowhards. Why is Genson representing Blago?For the free advertising. He’s on TV more than Peter Francis Geraci.

    Where do these guys get their reputations as heavy hitters? Outside of Genson and R Kelly (and you know what they say about that trial in the hood), where do these guys get their gunslinger reputations? They’re media hounds.

    If you want to see a great Chicago defense attorney, Clarence Darrow is buried in Jackson Park.


  235. - Smitty Irving - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 7:25 pm:

    Does anyone know if the hearings were recorded? If so, where are the clips, audio or audio / visual, that can be listened to / viewed later? Heard the JCAR part, but missed Holland.


  236. Pingback Chicago Content » Case Against Blagojevich ‘Weak,’ Media On ‘Witch Hunt’: Lawyer (VIDEO) - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 7:25 pm:

    […] The impeachment panel adjourned Thursday and will reconvene Monday. Genson, who has been vocal about his contempt for the proceedings, dismissed the idea of walking out on the hearings (via Capitol Fax): […]


  237. - Little Egypt - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 7:41 pm:

    Quiz - no matter when this thing get to the Senate, it will be the Chief Illinois Supreme Court Judge to preside over the trial because it is the governor. Anyone else, the Senate President would preside but not this time.


  238. - walter sobchak - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 8:02 pm:

    I just watched some of the testimony on CLTV. If ‘Bimbo Redhead’ is who she purports to be, beyond Freud, after watching her testimony, I endorse her name choice. She deserves neither a break nor a salary bonus. At best, maybe not complete contempt, but close to it. She does, however, represent everything that’s wrong with her Governor extremely well.


  239. - wordslinger - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 8:34 pm:

    –Genson contended that the criminal complaint against Blagojevich was “a dog and pony show” based on the most incendiary snippets from thousands of hours of comments recorded secretly by prosecutors.–

    That’s buried in he Trib. Re-reading it, the phrase “thousands of hours of comments” really stands out.

    Thousands of hours. That’s a lot. Is it lawyer hyperventilation, sloppy reporting on the real deal?


  240. - the Other Anonymous - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 8:53 pm:

    Wordsliner, let’s do the math.

    There are 720 hours in a 30 day period (30×24). The wiretaps were approved for two sixty day periods. So, if Blagojevich never sleeped and talked nonstop and the Feds recorded every word for every day authorized, there could be no more than 1440 hours of recordings.

    A couple of hundred hours sounds more like it.


  241. - Arthur Andersen - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 9:00 pm:

    excellent point, word. I seem to remember Joe Duffy making a similar beef about his client and the overhears. We saw the results.

    If AA was ever in deep doo-doo, I would reach out to Valukas, Fahner, Z Scott (if I could afford them) or some of their former assistants before any of these fellas, who seem to have either read too many puff pieces or represented too many dirtbags.


  242. - Pot calling kettle - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 9:10 pm:

    While the Chief Justice would oversee a Senate trial, Emil oversees the rule-making, which is taking place now…


  243. - Chambananon - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 9:27 pm:

    Other Anon — you forgot to double the number of hours of comments — more than one wiretap equals more than one set of 1440 hours of comments (in theory, anyway)…

    so 2880… thousands isn’t entirely crazy as a claim at that point, nearly at 3, and that’s if they only tapped 2 lines for the 60 day period.

    Just a thought.


  244. - Blago Sphere - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 9:42 pm:

    Pot,

    The Senate Special Committee on Impeachment Trial Procedures consists of 9 members; 5 D appointed by the President, and 4 R appointed by the Minority Leader. The Chairperson of this committee is elected by the affirmative vote of 5 of its members.

    The appointed Democratic members are:

    James F. Clayborne, Jr.
    John J. Cullerton
    William R. Haine
    Don Harmon
    Ira I. Silverstein

    They’ve not yet met to elect a Chair; but whom do you think has the best odds to garner the requisite 5 votes?

    Madigan is massaging the timing of this; and allowing Genson to help facilitate that for him, so that Emil will be an asterisk in the last General Assembly Blue Boook edition by the time any rules are finalized, or this reaches the Senate for trial. Madigan and Cullerton are no doubt working in concert on this; as evidenced by the two step they did around the Special Election issue together, and the substantially similar non Heiple like procedure established in the formation of this committee.

    The best/worst Emil could hope for would be that the Governor’s counsel calls him as a witness; however he might have to plead the 5th if called and would probably not want to leave himself open to cross examination.


  245. - Rob_N - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 11:03 pm:

    Captain America opines:

    “Impeachment upon any other grounds than the federal tapes is probably not in order. Clearly the Governor has engaged in a conspiracy with others to extort money (or behaviors) from a hospital executive, the Tribune, and Senatorial nominees. I’m not sure why they are wasting time on this “historical stuff.””

    Impeachment on these other grounds is of the highest order. The average citizen may not care, or may not understand, this “historical stuff” but that’s all the more reason for the legislature — as an equal branch of government — to be concerned about it on behalf of the citizenry.

    Allowing this one governor to break the law on these issues sets an awful precedent, and on many things (ie, the JCAR end-around) the only means to hold a governor accountable is impeachment, censure or some other legislative action.

    The Sangamon County Sheriff isn’t going to cuff a sitting governor for violating JCAR laws…


  246. - Rob_N - Thursday, Dec 18, 08 @ 11:20 pm:

    hisgirlfriday says:

    “thanks jack franks for illustrating why Blagojevich should have been impeached […] before he was even re-elected.”

    It takes a House willing to find cause for impeachment and a Senate willing to vote for impeachment…

    Methinks Jones’ retirement has as much to do with the current activity in the Lege as does Fitzmas. Irregardless of Cullerton, the impending absence of Jones this January is a pretty strong catalyst for all this.

    My two pennies.


  247. - T. Mamet is not a palindrome - Friday, Dec 19, 08 @ 12:03 am:

    For me, the highlight of today was the very Nixonian presentation by Barry Palindrome and his helpful magician’s assistant who makes things disappear. I learned that instead of saying a plain “yes”, you can say “I had a comfort level with that”. And that much like spontaneous combustion, multimillion dollar programs can spring forth unassisted, as Athena from the forehead of Zeus, when someone initiates the initiation of the…. well, you get the idea.

    Sweet Lou is my hero: he may not look like Tom Cruise, but after today I’m pretty sure Barry Maram ordered the code red on private Santiago.

    Barry: you’ve ended an otherwise noble career in disgrace with the way you responded to the committee today. The boss is always ultimately responsible.


  248. - Gregor - Friday, Dec 19, 08 @ 12:11 am:

    I don’t think some folks understand that the “historic stuff” is what will hang Rod with this process. If Genson can get the fed’s wiretap evidence made inadmissible until that trial is done and a conviction made, it is the historical stuff like IPAM, RX meds, Kid Care expansion, and the CMS hornswoggles in hiring, contracts, and voodoo accounting that can be easily proven and documented.

    You have the governor’s signature on a passed bill that defines JCAR’s powers and makes them law. You have a trail established and a timeline for how Blago hit a wall with the law and tried to go around it. They got Capone on piddling back taxes, and they’ll impeach Blago on this “minor historical stuff”. Not the Federal senate seat case. Bet you a Pony Shoe on it.


  249. - Two Yoots - Friday, Dec 19, 08 @ 12:19 am:

    I just heard Genson’s Reagan-like open-mic gaffe. How does the lawyer for a guy who’s being prosecuted on evidence gained from taps and wires go into a room full of fifty microphones and as many reporters, and assume he can talk sotto voce in privacy? The guy is supposedly pretty smart, so is he really that careless, or maybe he’s acting? What is this, the sequel to ‘My Cousin Vinnie’?


  250. - Paladin - Friday, Dec 19, 08 @ 3:38 am:

    Everyone knows this will be a several month stroke, right?


  251. - Cranky Old Man - Friday, Dec 19, 08 @ 5:17 am:

    Considering the rush of Mr. Fitzgerald to head off the gov filling the senate seat, I can’t help but think that impeachment may have been considered some time ago, but put on hold per a request of the feds. The old expression, “give him enough rope to hang himself” comes to mind. I think the saw the potential for a lot more rope, but didn’t want to gamble with the senate seat. Just my thought.


  252. - Chambananon - Friday, Dec 19, 08 @ 5:52 am:

    I don’t really have anything important to add at the moment, but I felt someone needed to push the comments over from 249 to 250, just for the sake of it.

    Way to go, Rich, on the Blog views and visits — you’ve been setting the standard of excellence in political coverage, and even just breaking news in general, for years, and this proves it even more!


  253. - the Other Anonymous - Friday, Dec 19, 08 @ 7:56 am:

    Chambanon, way to represent the insomomniac CapFax commenters!

    Your 9:27PM comment that there were two wires is well taken, but consider that means that there are two locations where people talked non-stop for 24 a day for 60 days. No, I’d still say we’re talking a few hundred hours of tapes, not “thousands.”


  254. - Anonymous - Friday, Dec 19, 08 @ 8:30 am:

    Almost all the JCAR meetings with HFS rulemakings on the agenda during the past year turned out to be rehearsals for yesterday.


  255. - Anon from BB - Friday, Dec 19, 08 @ 9:16 am:

    You also have to remember that by the wiretap rules, the FBI was prohibited from taping 24/7. They could only listen in for brief periods, and if the conversation was pertinent to the wiretap warrant, then they could tape the conversation.


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