Latest Post | Last 10 Posts | Archives
Previous Post: *** UPDATED x1 *** Unanswered questions about DNR resignation
Next Post: *** LIVE *** Rutherford press conference
Posted in:
* Floodgates are now open…
A former high-ranking employee for Illinois State Treasurer Dan Rutherford dropped bombshell allegations in federal court Monday – charging that Rutherford sexually harassed him and used his state office to further his political aspirations.
The employee, Ed Michalowski, charged that Rutherford has made unwanted sexual advances against him since 2011. In one instance, Michalowski claims that in 2011 Rutherford held an overnight office retreat at Rutherford’s Pontiac home, entered Michalowski’s bedroom and grabbed his genitals.
Michalowski, 43, served as Rutherford’s Director of Community Affairs and Marketing. He resigned last week, telling the Sun-Times he felt intimidated by a news conference Rutherford held promising to combat the allegations while flanked by former federal agents. […]
In August of 2011, at D.H. Brown’s, a bar in Springfield, Michalowski alleges that Rutherford approached him and said: “If you go home with me you can have anything you want in the office.”
Michalowski further alleges that Rutherford demanded that he go through his personal list of past clients and ask them to donate to Rutherford’s campaign fund.
Michalowski’s attorney said on Monday that her client kept some text messages as corroboration but concedes there were likely no witnesses to the alleged incidents.
Michalowski worked for the secretary of state’s office before Rutherford hired him.
*** UPDATE *** Rutherford spokesperson Judy Pardonnet told Eric Zorn this today…
I would say the chances of anyone else coming forward is very unlikely.
Denial runs awful deep in that office.
*** UPDATE 2 *** The lawsuit can be read by clicking here.
*** UPDATE 3 *** From Rutherford’s office…
Treasurer Rutherford will hold a media availability this afternoon to address an ex-employee’s complaint.
Date: Monday, February 10, 2014
Time: 4:30 p.m.
Location: Hyatt Regency, 1800 E. Golf Rd., Schaumburg
posted by Rich Miller
Monday, Feb 10, 14 @ 2:01 pm
Sorry, comments are closed at this time.
Previous Post: *** UPDATED x1 *** Unanswered questions about DNR resignation
Next Post: *** LIVE *** Rutherford press conference
WordPress Mobile Edition available at alexking.org.
powered by WordPress.
A two year pattern of behavior, text messages, and so on.
It’s going to get ugly. And it’s just getting started.
Comment by Formerly Known As... Monday, Feb 10, 14 @ 2:04 pm
So the instances of harassment were both in 2011, but he kept working for him until this month? I know that a harassment victim isn’t obligated to quit his or her job on the spot, but waiting three years until a month before the election to bring up the issue raises a red flag in my mind.
Comment by ChicagoR Monday, Feb 10, 14 @ 2:06 pm
I’ll wager that Mary Frances wishes she still worked for WLS.
Comment by Jake From Elwood Monday, Feb 10, 14 @ 2:10 pm
===…her client kept some text messages as corroboration but concedes there were likely no witnesses to the alleged incidents.===
The “Friday Fiasco” now is starting to look even more Dopey.
If the Rauner story they were pushing was the crux of why they wanted to “get out in front” of all this, then what do we have?
(Given, not one piece of evidence is out there, and presumed innocent until proven guilty,…)
You have a “he said, he said”, with texts and other witnesses corroborating, and a smear piece by the Sun Times about “sharing rooms”
The “Friday Fiasco” just made this waiting play out in the open. It’s a “chicken/egg” deal wether the attorney would have come out as she has had Rutherford not come out in the press first, but too much “self-inflicted” ingorance on the Rutherford Crew’s part to have all this fester as it has.
It’s out there, there is a “name” now, there is the “framing of the accuser” I am sure going to take place, based on accusations leveled, and we will see if Rutherford can stick around in this election.
The fact that I don’t know if Rutherford can stick around is not a good sign.
Comment by Oswego Willy Monday, Feb 10, 14 @ 2:18 pm
He says both of the allegations stem from a 2011 occurrence. He is an attorney and went bankrupt around that time. He waits another 3 years to do anything, just before a primary election. And now he lands seemlessly at the Cook County Recorder of Deed’s office.
None of this adds up. And this is not even counting the inherent Rauner connections with the attorney.
Comment by Boone's is Back Monday, Feb 10, 14 @ 2:21 pm
It all makes sense now..who could resist
Comment by Bobo Monday, Feb 10, 14 @ 2:22 pm
Judy might want to wait until the internal review is finished before she opines on the likelihood of others coming/not coming forward.
And I totally agree with OW — that Friday Fiasco was a poor strategic decision by Judy and the rest of Rutherford’s advisors. They framed the debate, unfortunately, not in the way they wanted.
Comment by Whatever Monday, Feb 10, 14 @ 2:25 pm
Now there is a name and allegations, none of which can be verified. Yawn.
Comment by Toure's Latte Monday, Feb 10, 14 @ 2:26 pm
Hate to speculate, but this is darn serious now. This person is in his 40s and was in management. If it was just a huge (and I mean huge) misunderstanding here, a guy that age would be more likely to stay very quiet and leave this ghost in the graveyard. It sounds like something woke up that ghost. It’s likely that it was the person who created the ghost in the first place. There are incredibly hurt feelings fueling all of this I believe.
Comment by A guy... Monday, Feb 10, 14 @ 2:27 pm
It’s easy for me to believe the political stuff. I find it hard to believe that a politician eager to advance his career would do the sex stuff. Then again, there is plenty of precedent.
Say goodbye Dan!
Comment by Norseman Monday, Feb 10, 14 @ 2:38 pm
so he goes from working for a Republican to a Democrat, just like that. Hmmm.
Comment by Ravenswood Right Winger Monday, Feb 10, 14 @ 2:39 pm
Reading through the complaint…
1. This document succeeds in making Dan sound like a creep and probably making him unelectable.
2. As a claim for sexual harassment damages though, this guy is complaining he didn’t get raises when the state is broke and claiming Dan being creepy caused cerebral spinal fluid to leak in his brain leading to $100,000 in medical bills? What? I can kind of see arguing intimidation/retaliation via the presser caused him to have to resign but the medical bills stuff seems like a joke unless Christine’s got some really great experts to prove stress causes cerebral spinal fluid problems.
Comment by hisgirlfriday Monday, Feb 10, 14 @ 2:40 pm
Holy crap!
That bedroom must have been awfully dark!
Comment by VanillaMan Monday, Feb 10, 14 @ 2:42 pm
=If it was just a huge (and I mean huge) misunderstanding here=
It’s pretty hard to “misunderstand” a guy coming into your bedroom and grabbing your stuggots!
It never ceases to amaze me. Some pols are carrying this kind of baggage yet still tempt fate by running on the big stage.
I political ambition that blinding and delusional to these folks?
Ironically enough, this probably would be considered a political plus if he was running as a Dem….
Comment by Arizona Bob Monday, Feb 10, 14 @ 2:43 pm
=== so he goes from working for a Republican to a Democrat, just like that. Hmmm. ===
And he worked for a Democrat before he worked for Rutherford. Rutherford was apparently friends with the guy. One of the two made a very poor choice in friends.
Comment by Anonymous Monday, Feb 10, 14 @ 2:46 pm
Rutherford is toast.
Comment by NW Illinois Dem Monday, Feb 10, 14 @ 2:46 pm
A history of requests for personal favors with benefits, orders to shake down a list of ‘friends’ for money, intimidation at work, no witnesses but some text messages exist, political plots at election time, potential ruined careers. Could not possibly be the plot line from a couple hundred books, TV, movies? Where is Horatio Caine and Jack Reacher to peel away the many layers to get to the real story?
Comment by zatoichi Monday, Feb 10, 14 @ 2:46 pm
From a political perspective, Dan’s campaign is kaput. He would be well-served to conserve his money, cancel media buys for which he can get his cash back and live to fight the charges and hopefully fight another day. Sad.
Comment by Chicago Cynic Monday, Feb 10, 14 @ 2:47 pm
“At the Brown’s bar, Plaintiff was speaking to a group of women.” Just to make sure everyone knows…
Comment by Empty Chair Monday, Feb 10, 14 @ 2:50 pm
Some serious stuff, some, uhm, bizarre stuff as well.
I know it’s standard operating procedure to through the kitchen sink into the suit and see what sticks, but claiming that Rutherford made Ed’s cerebral spinal fluid leak is so strange and I have no idea why that is included in this.
Comment by Johnny Q. Suburban Monday, Feb 10, 14 @ 2:53 pm
=so he goes from working for a Republican to a Democrat, just like that. =
A jury demand has been filed. Do you think that something like that will be brought before the jurors and if so, whether they’d care?
Comment by Anonymous Monday, Feb 10, 14 @ 2:55 pm
Assuming it was a big misunderstanding in Dan’s guestroom, I can see it happening this way…
Ed: Dan… Why did you kiss my ear?
Dan: Why are you holding my hand?
Ed: [frowns] Where’s your other hand?
Dan: Between two pillows…
Ed: Those aren’t pillows!
Comment by Jerry Hubbard Monday, Feb 10, 14 @ 2:56 pm
===Treasurer Rutherford will hold a media availability this afternoon to address an ex-employee’s complaint.===
Ruh Roh.
Comment by Boone's is Back Monday, Feb 10, 14 @ 2:57 pm
I want to build on the observations of hisgirlfriday. I think the lawyer and plaintiff discredit their case by claiming “The stress and anxiety suffered by Plaintiff from Defendants’ conduct has manifested itself physically. In November 2012, Plaintiff was admitted to the hospital with severe headaches. After numerous hospitalizations and tests, Plaintiff was diagnosed with leakage of cerebral spinal fluid in the brain for which he has undergone four blood patches and one occipital nerve block as a result of Defendants’ conduct.”
I’m not a doctor but some quick Internet research didn’t indicate a linkage between stress and leakage of cerebral spinal fluid. Rather the causes cited were related to physical trauma. If there is a doctor reading Cap Fax, an opinion would be great.
Comment by Chicago guy Monday, Feb 10, 14 @ 2:58 pm
First, this site is loading extremely slowly today. Nothing like sex related charged to bring on the page hits.
Second, Arizona Bob–I’ve made some stupid statements over the years on blogs, but you suggesting that these charges would be a plus for a Democrat is stupid and low. Then again you probably spell “Democrat” as “Demonrat”.
This is excellent news for the Rauner campaign and also excellent news for the Quinn campaign. I view Rauner as the easiest candidate for Pat the Populist to tackle. That’s only because the milkman isn’t running for Governor.
Comment by IrishPirate Monday, Feb 10, 14 @ 3:01 pm
Will be interested to see just how much Dan discloses at his presser of his past dealings with Ed. How did they meet anyway?
Am fascinated that he donated $300 to Rutherford on Sept. 15, 1999, at the same time he was Jesse White’s campaign treasurer (until Oct. 13, 2000).
And then he goes and works for Dan after Dan ran a pretty negative campaign against Jesse in 2006?
Comment by hisgirlfriday Monday, Feb 10, 14 @ 3:01 pm
===so he goes from working for a Republican to a Democrat, just like that. Hmmm.===
He was a Democrat and worked for White before. Not much “hmmm” about it.
Comment by Rich Miller Monday, Feb 10, 14 @ 3:04 pm
I had thought these charges might be bogus. After seeing who the accuser is I’m sure they are.
Comment by Cassiopeia Monday, Feb 10, 14 @ 3:07 pm
The allegations of mixing political work and government work are not hard to believe. Rutherford has been quite blatant in politicizing the Office of Treasurer.
Comment by Samurai Monday, Feb 10, 14 @ 3:12 pm
===I view Rauner as the easiest candidate for Pat===
Yeah. A billionaire who has so far vaporized three formerly solid Republican candidates and could spend $100 million by November.
Keep dreaming.
Comment by Rich Miller Monday, Feb 10, 14 @ 3:13 pm
===
It’s easy for me to believe the political stuff. I find it hard to believe that a politician eager to advance his career would do the sex stuff. Then again, there is plenty of precedent.
===
In my experience, for the most ambitious politicians out there, there’ usually something very primal or emotional fueling their ambition. In my opinion, it’s usually some gnawing insecurity. Like a drug, they feel the need to push for the “next” thing to feel important or good about themselves.
It’s almost like a drug, and the more somebody gets hooked, the more risky behavior they start to engage in. Maybe it’s ego thinking they’ll get away with it. Maybe it’s the subconscious creating a self-destructive pattern. Who knows?
Some of this comes out in the form of political ambition, but it can come out in other ways–drug/alcohol abuse, sexually inappropriate behavior, food or gambling addiction, etc.
As with any compulsive behavior, sometimes taking those risks and jeopardizing everything is just par for the course. So even though on a logical level it doesn’t make sense why somebody would risk everything for this behavior, in the end it isn’t logical–it’s emotionally driven.
Hence the compulsion and the inability to stop it with pure willpower alone. The person might logically see the slow-motion train wreck that’s being set up, but they feel powerless to stop it.
So they carry on, strive for the next goal, and cross their fingers that it never catches up to them.
Comment by John Galt Monday, Feb 10, 14 @ 3:16 pm
How about taking a breath for about 10 seconds here…
The accuser woeked for Dems, was a friend of Rutherford’s, now works for a Dem again.
Happens often in state government, with “holdovers” or even “favors” by friends, or even a friend of a friend. Take off the tin foil hats.
- Arizona Bob -, you ahve got to be kidding? Please, that shows utter ignorance, and a lack of understanding on too many levels that a forum like this could address. Dope.
- Cassiopeia -, You should feel pretty embarrassed. So now only “pretty” people according to you merit belief in accusations? I will give you credit, you snide remark is short enough to reveal how petty you are. Pathetic.
The docs and the case are, as they are.
Adding in “looks”, “Ah HA! A Dem” moments, and belittling all, yes ALL victims, is not what this place is about. If you want to discrininate on looks, or call behavor one party’s “plus” or even think working for a Dem AND a Republican should be shameful, then cast that first stone through your glass houses.
We are all better than all that. Rich has made this place better than that. Please, be better than that too.
Comment by Oswego Willy Monday, Feb 10, 14 @ 3:17 pm
In the filing, Michalowski charges that Rutherford demanded access to his well-heeled contacts for fundraising purposes –all of whom are Democrats. Michalowski is a Democrat, who barely raised any money when he himself ran for judge as a Democrat!
Comment by IbendahlLuvsJBT Monday, Feb 10, 14 @ 3:20 pm
It’s over for Rutherford as far as this race is concerned and any other political ambitions within the Republican Party.
Comment by Wensicia Monday, Feb 10, 14 @ 3:21 pm
Rauner hasn’t vaporized Rutherford. Rutherford is vaporizing Rutherford. It also helps that it’s a 4 candidate field.
Time will tell, but Rauner’s ties to Rahm, his vast money, his anti union cred, and his clouting his daughter into school is going to make him a fat juicy target. Most people in this state haven’t even started paying attention to this race yet.
Quinn closes well in races. This is a Democratic state. Quinn won, barely, in the big Republican year of 2010. Is 2014 going to be a big Republican year?
Rauner will rally the populist element of the Democratic party against him. Is that enough? Tune in to the November results where one of us or both of us will appear silly, silly, silly.
Comment by IrishPirate Monday, Feb 10, 14 @ 3:25 pm
**And note, my observation above is more about generic seemingly self-destructive behavior in politicians and candidates. Sometimes the very psychological motivation that fuels them to be so ambitious is the very same trait that gets them into trouble in other areas of their life.
As to whether these particular allegations are true or not, I have no idea. The timing and the political nature of the plaintiff are certainly very interesting. If there are other corroborating witnesses, or if other plaintiffs come out of the woodwork (either from the Treasurer’s Office or elsewhere), then obviously it’ll add credibility to the complaint.
Comment by John Galt Monday, Feb 10, 14 @ 3:25 pm
This person will likely live another 45-50 years. He will be known by how this case turns out; an innocent guy whose ambition kept him quiet or a guy guilty of trying to smear a public official. He’s had 2 years to cross this bridge since the “incident” in the filing. Not sure anyone would subject themselves to lifelong problems for a short term smear. But, it is possible.
Comment by A guy... Monday, Feb 10, 14 @ 3:26 pm
Looking at this from the Rutherford Governor bid, I don’t see how this could possibly resolve itself by mid March in a manner that would not hinder his campaign. I was a fairly solid Rutherford vote & now have serious questions. Documents and witnesses don’t have to be produced. The lawsuit & charges are all it probably takes to end any chance for his candidacy to succeed. For the good of the party, it is tiome for Rutherford to step aside. If Rauner is the nominee, its 4 more years of Quinn.
Comment by AFSCME Steward Monday, Feb 10, 14 @ 3:33 pm
Rutherford Crew,
Think. It is all in front of you now, so whatever you say is NOT going to make anything better. The only thing that can be done is make it a whole lot worse.
Be stern, not angry. Be composed, not flailing. Be open and honest, but don’t be evasive when you open doors that may not need be open.
The odds are with the “House” here, and not with Rutherford in perception, so don’t accuse anyone or another campaign, with “in my heart”. You go down that road, you will then be damaging yourself again, when a release couls have been enough of a response.
Everyone is presumed innocent until proven guilty,so that is why I am commenting as I am. We all are going to know how true or false this might be, but on the “political”, the “House” money is not going your way.
Comment by Oswego Willy Monday, Feb 10, 14 @ 3:37 pm
IrishPirate, six months ago, most GOP insiders believed that Rauner would drop out by filing deadline. Instead, he’s spent millions, dried up all the cash in the race, and is currently on cruise control.
PQ outspent Brady, remember. He’s gonna get way outspent by Rauner.
You underestimate him at your peril.
Remember, the last guy who said “Bring it on,” got stuck in a never-ending war on the Arabian peninsula.
Comment by Rich Miller Monday, Feb 10, 14 @ 3:38 pm
Capt Fax:
Vaporized? Mitt Rauner used Edgar McCarthy dummy to “boo” to Mr. Dreamey and he skeddled by to DC. DandyDan will hang in…Mitt may win but hardly the Vaporizer
Comment by CicrcularFiringSquad Monday, Feb 10, 14 @ 3:38 pm
Well. The venue, parties, undisputed facts, the fact that a jury has been demanded, and allegations are now known. In my mind, I’m sure that what Rutherford’s, Rauner’s, Dillard’s, Brady’s, and Quinn’s supporters and campaign staffers will have to say throughout the campaign and possibly throughout the litigation, including trial (if the case isn’t dismissed or settled), will be interesting.
I’m going to guess a lot of people are probably going to try to make (and either succeed or fail), or accidentally make a name for themselves based on the related analyses, their own speculation, and by regurgitating the speculation of others.
I’m sure some even regret that Dominick Dunne is not around to cover this story and to eventually write a fictionalized novel based on it.
Personally, I’m just grateful that I FINALLY know what the facts related to my immediate concerns are. All the speculation, including the “forensics” aspects of the resignation letter, etc. were interesting, of course, but also for me seemed to be a bit of an unwelcome distraction within the context of a gubernatorial campaign.
I certainly hope that the other candidates in both the Primary and General elections do not feel that this situation is an excuse not to tell us about who they are and why they should be our Governor. Because there are some of us who are still interested in the election itself.
Comment by Anonymous Monday, Feb 10, 14 @ 3:46 pm
This primary so far has broke about as perfectly as possible for Rauner. Brady and Dillard have no money and the one guy with a few bucks just got hit with a sexual harassment lawsuit. Credit to Rauner for cutting off the money supply to Dillard specifically, but he’s also had a fair bit of luck so far.
Comment by From the 'Dale to HP Monday, Feb 10, 14 @ 3:48 pm
Rich,
comparing me to George W Bush is low. He said “bring ‘em on” while I shook my head and had my patriotism questioned my members of my extended family who never wore a military uniform.
I think you’re overrating the importance of money in a two way race. Let Rauner spend tens of millions. It will be good for the economy and Quinn can use bring in a “Kung Fu” like counter campaign. Of course, David Carradine, the actor from “Kung Fu” is dead so perhaps that’s not the best example.
One of us will be proven right come November. I think you’re “misunderestimating” the negatives Rauner brings to the campaign. I know “culturally conservative” democratic hating union members who will drag themselves over hot coals to vote for Quinn. Not because they love Quinn, but because they fear Rauner.
I fully expect Rauner to drive up Democratic turnout and slightly depress Republican turnout. I don’t expect the GOP faithful to vote Quinn, but if a few percent stay home in disgust over Rauner that’s all it will take.
Rauner is like a caricature of Mr Potter wearing a Carhartt duck hunting jacket with lots of pockets for his money and Rahm.
Comment by IrishPirate Monday, Feb 10, 14 @ 3:57 pm
IrishPirate, not saying that Quinn can’t possibly beat Rauner. Just saying that if you really prefer to run against an aggressive billionaire who is going all in then you’re nuts.
Comment by Rich Miller Monday, Feb 10, 14 @ 4:02 pm
“Our last surprise presser went pretty well, don’t ya think?”
– MrJM
Comment by MrJM Monday, Feb 10, 14 @ 4:04 pm
CFS - What language are you speaking?
Comment by Soccermom Monday, Feb 10, 14 @ 4:05 pm
Toast. Starting to burn. Awaiting a national media close up.
Comment by Amalia Monday, Feb 10, 14 @ 4:09 pm
Any word on a live feed of the presser? *getting popcorn*
Comment by Big Muddy Monday, Feb 10, 14 @ 4:10 pm
===Mitt Rauner used Edgar McCarthy dummy to “boo” to Mr. Dreamey and he skeddled by to DC. DandyDan will hang in…Mitt may win but hardly the Vaporizer===
(Grabs Homemade “CFS to English and back to CFS” translator, fevorishly turning pages …)
“Bruce Rauner used 3rd Person PAC to scare Aaron Schock, and Schock went back to his Congressional seat option. Rutherford is not going to back away. Rauner may win, but not by a whole bunch.”
Or…
“Bananas, Tuesday, Leather Chair, Hockey Stick and again, Rauner.”
Take yer pick.
Comment by Oswego Willy Monday, Feb 10, 14 @ 4:11 pm
This is just nuts. While it may seem that people wouldn’t put themselves through hell just for a little fame and fortune, people have in the past (Morton Downey trying to continue his fame with the fake neo-Nazi attack, the lesbian waitress/veteran with the fake anti-gay receipt). However, whether true or not, Rutherford is finished because this is an albatross one cannot bounce by the time the primary occurs.
As others have stated, the spinal stuff seems ridiculous to include, but IANAL or a medical doctor for that matter. Still, it comes off as unnecessarily salacious and irrelevant.
The question now, will others come forward if they exist?
Comment by Precinct Captain Monday, Feb 10, 14 @ 4:11 pm
—-Rich Miller - Monday, Feb 10, 14 @ 4:02 pm:
IrishPirate, not saying that Quinn can’t possibly beat Rauner. Just saying that if you really prefer to run against an aggressive billionaire who is going all in then you’re nuts. —
I must be a squirrel then because I’m all nuts on Rauner.
In any case it will be fun to watch and the GOP political consultants should expect a big payday.
Comment by IrishPirate Monday, Feb 10, 14 @ 4:12 pm
@Rich and @Irish -
Rauner is little different than Romney, with the exception that Rauner is ticking off all the GOP legislators he hasn’t “supported” monetarily.
Forget Quinn. Forget the millions at Rauner’s disposal. Forget Mrs. Rauner and Rahm and clout-gate.
The GOP leges I know (some pretty hard core conservatives in that lot) are totally miffed by his arrogance and antagonism.
Comment by A. Nonymous Monday, Feb 10, 14 @ 4:12 pm
I know what I’m about to say is crazy, but here it is:
The only way Rutherford has any chance here is to change the story. There’s one way to do it: come out, now, and claim that when Ed found out he threatened extortion in this manner. Attempt to go from “candidate facing sex allegations” to “first openly gay Republican in office in Illinois”. Play victim card - outed by jealous, turncoat, Democrat employee who knows Rutherford is the strongest candidate to beat Pat Quinn. Make case that Republicans believe in privacy, that this is as private as it gets, and that he’d hoped it wouldn’t matter, but it now does.
This wouldn’t work in most states, but it might here…the hard right wasn’t going for Dan anyway and this could boost his collar/Cook totals. At the least, it buries Dillard, who becomes the other guy (Rauner’s the rich guy, Dan’s the gay treasurer guy, Brady’s the downstate guy). And if it doesn’t work, he’s still a trailblazer, and that’ll keep Pongee full of gas for awhile.
Of course, this assumes DR really is gay - I wouldn’t know - but I think it’s his one chance.
Comment by Concerned Observer Monday, Feb 10, 14 @ 4:20 pm
WLS 89 will carry the audio live just after 4:30pm.
Comment by Dear Abby Monday, Feb 10, 14 @ 4:23 pm
Sorry Rich. I now see your other post. Site loading slow!
Comment by Big Muddy Monday, Feb 10, 14 @ 4:24 pm
===CFS - What language are you speaking?===
It’s code Mom. They speak in code.
Comment by 47th Ward Monday, Feb 10, 14 @ 4:25 pm
This makes me never want to speak again:
“I can see your chest through that shirt and t-shirt. Shake it baby, shake it.”
Comment by Wayne Bibliotech Monday, Feb 10, 14 @ 4:25 pm
Meanwhile, Rauner has another day of reporting $100,000 raised.
This includes 5k from the Second City CEO, perhaps because recycling Mitt Romney jokes for an Illinois governor is better for business than this sordid psychodrama.
Comment by hisgirlfriday Monday, Feb 10, 14 @ 4:33 pm
Hmm. Is anyone talking about the Rauner mailer now? Interesting timing.
Comment by Jake From Elwood Monday, Feb 10, 14 @ 4:34 pm
Soccermom, my decoder ring translates as rauner secretly funded a PAC to run negative spots against schock and drive him from the governors race.
Cfs, you work way too hard on your anonymity, lol.
Comment by Wordslinger Monday, Feb 10, 14 @ 4:35 pm
My goodness I think we might have found Illinois’ version of Dominick Dunne in Concerned Observer. Please remember to carry on the tradition of including snippets of (in this case) Chicago and possibly DC Elites’ dinner parties–even if not relevant to the plot. I hear those passages sell quite a few books.
Comment by Anonymous Monday, Feb 10, 14 @ 4:54 pm
No! No! Since we’re in the Midwest, go with the social lives of the elite “wannabes.” Much more intriguing.
Comment by Anonymous Monday, Feb 10, 14 @ 5:01 pm
This whole thing’s making me too sick to comment on the substance. A lot of people are going to be hurt, in a lot of ways.
The political ball’s up in the air on this, IMO, but Rutherford needed a clear run to have a shot.
Best case, he doesn’t have the time left to let this run its course, and get back to his campaign messages.
Comment by walker Monday, Feb 10, 14 @ 5:35 pm
Having read over these allegations now, and when just the TIMing of this whole thing is taken into consideraton as SO close to Election Day, all I can say is that this is bad–this is REAL bad–and as I suggested before, for better or for worse, even those FEW % of the GOP Electorate who’ll back-off of the Treasurer now while this painful situation plays out and is resolved (and will argue in avoidance of supporting him that it’s difficult to insist that their doubts are altogether UNreasonable now at this point), will cost him dearly in votes be just too much for him to overcome….
And so again, for better or for worse for Illinoisans in this Gubernatorial Contest…Dan Rutherford is a goner.
Comment by Just The Way It Is One Monday, Feb 10, 14 @ 5:42 pm
That was meant to read above, “…will cost him dearly in votes, and be just too much….”
Comment by Just The Way It Is One Monday, Feb 10, 14 @ 5:45 pm
So who should withdraw: Dillard or Brady?
Comment by Hans Sanity Monday, Feb 10, 14 @ 5:46 pm
Minor point perhaps, but why didn’t his health insurance pay for all that pricey brain drainage?
Comment by Arthur Andersen Monday, Feb 10, 14 @ 6:19 pm
Okay, just thinking aloud here… the accuser gets a new gig, with the Cook County Recorder of Deeds - right? Then, the accuser sits down and tries to negotiate his severance. The accuser brings up a few (ahem) issues - and is asking for 300 K to make all of this go away. The Treasurer’s office says no way… Do we think his attorney was already on board, as of that date? Also, her bizarre statement about the “13″ and previous folks who had come to her has me very, very curious… Why does our accuser end up with HER? Was he directed to fall into her lap? Was she directed to him? This gets more and more interesting… There are (obviously) lots of unnamed folks, in addition to the named cast of characters. Some of whom — As others have said, this could hurt a lot more people than just the obvious. And, of course, I find myself wondering if Rutherford’s initial claim that Bruce was somehow behind this was a mere blind suspicion, or if it was based on a trail (a chain of evidence, so to speak) that he could recognize, that we cannot quite see. At least yet… I do note that he has not repeated that initial accusation against Rauner, am I correct? Was that a gut reaction? (Yeah, I know the attorney did a minor deal for Brucie awhile back, but now it s her claim that another had already come to her about this same sort of issue.) Curious…
Comment by Justan Observer Monday, Feb 10, 14 @ 6:28 pm
- Justan Observer -,
That is called the “Scooby-Doo” ending, but since Mr. McGillacuddy is not taking over the amusement park, and this is the multi-million dollar GOP Primary, your theory is tough to take in the 5 weeks left.
If the theory was 22 minutes long, without commercials…
Comment by Oswego Willy Monday, Feb 10, 14 @ 6:44 pm
Refresh my memory: Didn’t Rutherford have all types of problems in terms of collecting petitions for Mitt Romney?
Comment by Oh, Come On Monday, Feb 10, 14 @ 7:38 pm
ANYTHING in the oh-so-coveted treasurer’s office?
Where to begin?
Cash-Dash fleece or the executive stapler?
So many goodies to choose from.
Comment by Michelle Flaherty Monday, Feb 10, 14 @ 8:09 pm
Rutherford’s team put out a pretty good response, including the travel voucher (don’t forget folks, that’s a public record!) which contradicts the accusers story for one of the dates in question.
But even as I read the rebuttal, I keep hearing “Dandy” Don Meredith’s refrain at the end of Monday Night Football– “Turn out the lights, the party’s over”.
Nothing can save Rutherford’s candidacy now. There’s no time. Even if the accuser it totally discredited it’s too close to the election to turn the tide.
Comment by DuPage Dave Monday, Feb 10, 14 @ 8:27 pm
Oswego - just to clarify - I actually have no theory, here. And, I do believe in the reality of coincidence. I personally do not give a rat’s behind about Mr. Rutherford’s sexuality, and I will let the courts decide the truth of the matter (a jury trial, indeed). And, I personally believe Dan R. is a goner, as far as the election, regardless of which of the accusations are eventually “founded” or “unfounded.” I am more interested in whether Rutherford’s initial assertion is correct — did Bruce Rauner have a hand in the “coincidence” of this particular timing? And, secondarily, what led that particular reporter to author that story in the Sun-Times? Was she duped? Isn’t she at least sharp enough to recognize when she is being manipulated? I keep going back to that paragraph wherein she mentions, purely in passing, how hotel rooms were shared… and her precise phrasing, and her wording… And that (in context) bothers me.
Comment by Justan Observer Monday, Feb 10, 14 @ 8:31 pm
Is it any wonder why many voters do not show up to the polls anymore?
Comment by Dirk Monday, Feb 10, 14 @ 8:32 pm
- Justan Observation -,
No worries. Understand, the Sun Times and their reporter took the “fed” story and inuendo and ran with it, as the Rauner Crew wanted, as Bruce Rauner is linked to the paper. Rich, here, explained how the “roomie” story got where it got by whom.
Pretty straight-forward. Rutherford got caught “watching the paint dry” as Rauner’s Crew ran the “roomie” story, and the allegations were running the “picket fence” around the screen of the story being peddled.
Rutherford had the “Friday Fiasco”, and “that’s that”.
Moral of the Story? Know exactly what you are refuting if you decide to get in front of a story, and be able to talk about what needs to be said, not what you hope to avoid discussing.
The rest is a set od serious allegations, not to be dismissed on how the acusser looks, be it in appearance, or in presentation.
Comment by Oswego Willy Monday, Feb 10, 14 @ 8:41 pm
Oswego, and just to clarify, I would not have been voting on Dan Rutherford, regardless. Not in the primary, and not in the gen. election. I am not an apologist for any of the ones I see vying for this election. I have just become very curious about electoral politics, especially in the past few years. And, the Supreme’s decision about PACs and Super PACs has upped my curiosity. So… I was intrigued when Dan R. made that initial accusation about this originating from Bruce Rauner. I was more intrigued when the accuser’s attorney denied this, yet I find myself wondering if she was the also the one asking for 300 K to make this all go away. Maybe there is nothing there… I am just naturally curious. And, I do recognize the possibility that the accuser’s lawsuit might be 100% accurate, and still am open to possibility that Bruce might still be behind this… Someone did mention that possibility, correct?
Comment by Justan Observer Monday, Feb 10, 14 @ 8:50 pm
Oswego — I think we actually are in agreement on everything — Dan’s first press conference (Jan 31?) was a huge error, since he could not discuss what he wanted to avoid discussing. The accuser is absolutely entitled to fair treatment — at this stage — he might be 100% the victim, in both the political violations and the sexual harassment. We will not know that, not for quite some time, long after any impact it might have on this primary, even the election. And, ewven the issue I am the most curious about — whether Rauner was behind this — would probably not matter much to many (most) of those who will go to the polls. But, I am curious about how far Rauner is willing to go, and I really have my clarification, already… if it was him or his folks who planted that story to a Sun-Times reporter. I will go and try to find Rich’s explanation of how it found its way to this reporter’s radar. Thanks!
Comment by Justan Observer Monday, Feb 10, 14 @ 9:05 pm
- Justan Observer -
Here ya go …
https://capitolfax.com/2014/02/03/the-story-the-rauner-campaign-was-actually-pushing/
Comment by Oswego Willy Monday, Feb 10, 14 @ 9:25 pm