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Blagojevich attorney: Governor won’t resign, did nothing wrong * UPDATES *

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Illinois

* Oy…

The attorney for Illinois Gov. Rod Blagojevich said the governor will be vindicated and he has no plans to resign.

“He didn’t do anything wrong,” attorney Sheldon Sorosky told reporters after Blagojevich was arraigned. “A lot of this is just politics.”

Blagojevich should be in the office Wednesday, Sorosky added.

So, reporters asked, he does not intend to resign?

“Not that I know of, no,” said Sorosky, who added that the governor was “surprised” by the day’s events.

Gov. Blagojevich may have been the only one “surprised” by the day’s events.

* 5:21 PM - A House Republican resolution creating “a Special Investigative Committee to investigate the conduct of Governor Rod R. Blagojevich and make a recommendation as to whether cause exists for impeachment” can be found at this link.

* Ambinder: Blago’s Taint: Who Succeeds Obama, And How?

* The Hill: Senate GOP Sees Hope in Blagojevich Scandal

* Crain’s: Illinois’ top lawmakers to strip Blago of senate pick power: A quick special election also could draw interest from one top Republican, north suburban U.S. Rep. Mark Kirk.

* Blagojevich attorney rises, for now, from relative obscurity

* Politico: What’s wrong with Illinois?

* ABC7: Allegations governor threatened Tribune Company: The Tribune Company released a statement Tuesday afternoon saying the actions of the company, its executives and advisors working on the sale of Wrigley Field have been appropriate at all times. It went on to say no one working for the company or on its behalf has ever attempted to influence the staffing decisions at the Chicago Tribune.

* Former IL Governor Edgar Reaction to Blagojevich Arrest

* 10 Colorful Quotes in the Blago Scandal

* Governor Wears Tight Pants to Court: When he entered the courtroom through a side door, Blagojevich was somber nodding a hello to acquaintances and shaking hands with lawyers. He was dressed in a black turtle neck under a greenish/blue pullover fleece jacket. And he was wearing tight black running pants that tapered near the bottom to show white sox peaking out of his runners.

posted by Rich Miller
Tuesday, Dec 9, 08 @ 4:52 pm

Comments

And judging by his actions, he was clearly surprised — surprised to have his phone tapped, surprised to be arrested. Amazing. Delusional. Psychopathic.

Comment by Angry Chicagoan Tuesday, Dec 9, 08 @ 4:55 pm
Really? Conspiring to sell a US Senate seat is not wrong? Interesting.

Comment by 2010 Tuesday, Dec 9, 08 @ 4:56 pm
All in all, it’s been an up (yours) day, huh guv?

Comment by A Citizen Tuesday, Dec 9, 08 @ 4:57 pm
Rich,
Somewhat related question…. if Quinn becomes Governor, what is the process for filling the Lt.Gov’s seat?

Comment by 19 warder Tuesday, Dec 9, 08 @ 4:58 pm
Lt. Gov’s seat stays vacant.

Comment by 2010 Tuesday, Dec 9, 08 @ 5:00 pm
Who is Sheldon Sorosky?

Comment by Arthur Andersen Tuesday, Dec 9, 08 @ 5:03 pm
Here we go… setting up the insanity plea

Comment by curious george Tuesday, Dec 9, 08 @ 5:03 pm
I hope that on his 52nd birthday-which is tomorrow he will FINALLY do the right thing and RESIGN! Doesn’t he get it yet? He’s going to be impeached? Just let it END!!!!!!!!!!!!!! SOOO typical of him to be SURPRISED! What an IDIOT!!!!!!!

Think about what you’re teaching your children and other children!

I REALLY hope that other politicians take a good LONG look in the mirror and start to make some CHANGES!!!!!!!!!!

Comment by Confused 2B Tuesday, Dec 9, 08 @ 5:03 pm
Oh he’ll resign… my guess is tomorrow.

Comment by John Bambenek Tuesday, Dec 9, 08 @ 5:06 pm
Whaddyamean there was no statement from the Governor?!?!?

“I think all this FBI stuff is a net positive. You know, the impeachment proceedings and federal criminal trial will only allow us a greater opportunity to demonstrate all we have done for the people of Illinois, working families, kids needing health care - that’s what it is all about. And if I need to go to prison to demonstrate my commitment to the people of this state that need a Governor fighting for them, well that’s no problem at all. So, for us this is a great day, a great day.”

;)

Comment by Bubs Tuesday, Dec 9, 08 @ 5:06 pm
Sheldon Sorosky isn’t with Winston & Strawn, according to the ARDC. Maybe Big Jim doesn’t have the heart for another gov on trial.

Comment by Zora Tuesday, Dec 9, 08 @ 5:11 pm
Gov’s statement: “On my way home, I looked out the car window and saw a little girl with her mom. She was smiling. Then she said to her mom: ‘Oh look, a very big kitty is sticking its head out of the window of that SUV.’ So, at least I’m not being mistaken for Mayor Daley anymore.”

Comment by unclesam Tuesday, Dec 9, 08 @ 5:11 pm
Without a doubt, he’ll be putting his resignation up for sale too.

Comment by ritab Tuesday, Dec 9, 08 @ 5:16 pm
Fight, Rod, Fight! Gotta luvvvv it!

Comment by Peoria Tuesday, Dec 9, 08 @ 5:18 pm
I was a legislative intern from Oct 94 - Aug 95. I worked on campaigns, doing everything, from field to fundraising, before and after my internship. I returned to my hometown and within a few years began working for a unit of local government. I continue to enjoy good relationships and work with legislators, lobbyists, and others involved in the political process in Illinois. All told, I suppose, I have been involved with state politics for about 15 years. By no means do I consider myself to be a “goo-goo” reformer, and I generally consider myself to be “old school” and a very loyal Democrat. I worked for Blago’s election and gave him $250 at a young professionals event in Oct of 2002.

That being said, I am absolutely flabbergasted by what I read in the indictment and the transcripts. It is completely shocking and disgusting. I stopped supporting this governor after the first legislative overtime session in 2004 when I saw that the man would do anything to further his own goals, and seemed to enjoy picking political fights with the very people he should have been reaching out to.

In 2006, I voted for the Green Party guy, the first time I had not voted for a Democrat for a statewide office since I had been voting. I knew this guy was no good, despite “advice” from a former collegue and another agency spokesperson who I knew personally that I should “stick with the party.” Forget that - I can make my own decisions based on my gut feeling, thank you very much.

Given all that, I am still in shock on how low this guy went given what was quoted as saying in the filing. Selling a U.S. Senate seat? That he saw himself as a “agent”, shopping the seat around to the highest bidder. Unreal. Just like Mary Mitchell said, he was no better than a mob boss, out to enrich himself under the cloak of being concerned for “average working people.” Ha.

The people of the state of Illinois have been governed, for 6 years, by people who acted like mobsters. And that is truly tragic.

Comment by some former legislative intern Tuesday, Dec 9, 08 @ 5:18 pm
The man is delusional. I mean like Nero, Caligula, Napoleon. That level.

Comment by Tanegeel Tuesday, Dec 9, 08 @ 5:22 pm
…other than that Patti, how was the play?

I just can’t see Rod resigning, without pulling down everyone with him he can. His Father in Law, Cellini, Hizzoner, Rahm, Edgar, EVERYONE.

Wether it’s true or not.

Don’t put it past him to have made tapes.

On another aside, I haven’t see this degree of cluelessnes since President Gary Hart.

Comment by St. Lou Tuesday, Dec 9, 08 @ 5:22 pm
Yes holding up money for a childrens hospital until you get a donation is just politics

Resign

Comment by OneMan Tuesday, Dec 9, 08 @ 5:23 pm
He resigns when the money to pay the legal bills dries up. That should be around February. Also, he CAN NOT allow those tapes to be played in court for the world to hear. Eventually the demensia will fade and Patti will tell him its time to go big boy. Tomorrow’s comments will be about a Republican Bush conspiracy to take down a popular Democrat, don’t worry citizens of Illinois I am still here fighting for all of you!!

Comment by ivoted4judy Tuesday, Dec 9, 08 @ 5:23 pm
Amazing. Just utterly, totally, unbelievably amazing. To paraphrase his own words, “What’s HE Thinking?”

One day you’re on CNN championing the “little people,” the next you’re on CNN, AGAIN, but being arrested.

GRod yesterday: Go ahead and tape me!
Fitz today: We have been, you dumbass.

Comment by 312 Tuesday, Dec 9, 08 @ 5:23 pm
So, did any of you get anything done today? Feels like a lost day somehow.

Comment by Zora Tuesday, Dec 9, 08 @ 5:24 pm
ritab you nailed it,,,,negotiations are probably going on right now to “sell” the exclusive interview and photo rights to his resignation announcement

looked how well it worked for Tom and Suri

Comment by curious george Tuesday, Dec 9, 08 @ 5:25 pm
Just yesterday, Rod quipped that there was “nothing but sunshine hanging” over him. Who knew that “sunshine” was code for the powerful disinfectant known as the federal prosecutor. One day, he postures with the Jacksons at the Republic Doors and Windows plant. Early the next morning, he is led by FBI agents out his front door, planted by the republican federal prosecutor. The Jackson family remains suspiciously silent on the matter. W-O-W

Comment by Jake from Elwood, Tuesday, Dec 9, 08 @ 5:26 pm
What was that bit about him shaking hands with the prosecutor after the hearing today? Is he that arrogant to think they’re in the same league together.

Comment by Cheswick Tuesday, Dec 9, 08 @ 5:31 pm
Carol Marin was just on WGN radio and made some good arguments for Rod not resigning: primarily, he needs the paycheck & insurance. I’m guessing Patty’s work will dry up, so we’re probably stuck with Rod for awhile.

Warning: do not let Rod on the plane, who knows where he will go!

Comment by Pot calling kettle Tuesday, Dec 9, 08 @ 5:35 pm
I feel sick for those two girls.

Comment by ivoted4judy Tuesday, Dec 9, 08 @ 5:37 pm
Nobody expected him to give up… he is going to fight this thing… because it is the only thing he can do. He is already ruined. So, he will fight for dear life and lose… but maybe he will be giving out a ton of information and end up getting some other big name for a plea deal. Atleast, I think that might be his take on it (crazy). But I believe Fitz thinks he is the Kingfish. And they are going to nail his butt to the wall. Fighting it is just more entertainment for me. Fight it, ROD!!! FIGHT IT!!! YOU CAN DO THIS!!!

Comment by Heartless Libertarian Tuesday, Dec 9, 08 @ 5:39 pm
The damage has been done and the liability too great to ignore. Hence the quick move to indict before the stink touches D.C. and the quick move to empeach.

Oh for the chance to ConCon! Fools!

Comment by Sinequanon Tuesday, Dec 9, 08 @ 5:40 pm
I bet all the other guys in the lock up just loved those tight fitting jogging pants! Way cool Elvis!!!!!!!!!!

Comment by ivoted4judy Tuesday, Dec 9, 08 @ 5:45 pm
Everyone Please be Reminded

This has only been about a Big Payback !!!

Nothing More / Nothing Less

Gov Rod Posted Signs in All State Building

I am Ethical / I am Hard Working

I am Honest / I have Integrity

WHO IS TALKING NOW????????

Comment by grategul Tuesday, Dec 9, 08 @ 5:49 pm
Everyone in Illinois was playing chess with the senate appoinment trying to figure out the best political move to make. Duh-Rod was playing checkers and just wanted to say ‘King Me’. How dumb and isolated can you be to ignore the world and go blindly into the night. Tis a sad, sad day, I doubt anyone outside of his circle would think about selling the senate seat of the President-elect.

Comment by Spiney Norman Tuesday, Dec 9, 08 @ 5:53 pm
I guess that what interests me is “where and to whom” will this federal investigation lead on to? Will Rod “flip” on others (Republican & Democrat) that he knows to be “dirty” when he gets squeezed by Patrick Fitzgerald? Will Patrick Fitzgerald put on his Monty Hall hat and play “Let’s Make A Deal” with Governor Blagojevich?

How far up the food chain would/could this go? Does it stop at Springfield or does it continue on to Washington DC? Barack took a great many friends and family with him to Washington. Will Rod and Patti be invited to Dick Mell’s house for Christmas this year? Will Santa leave any presents for Rod under the Blagojevich Christmas tree after checking his “Naughty & Nice List” for new names?

So many questions, so few answers.

Comment by Beowulf Tuesday, Dec 9, 08 @ 5:57 pm
Dan Webb, who has been hired to represent Bill Cellini, is with the law firm of Winston & Strawn. So, IMHO, all of the money Blago has paid to W&S is for naught because Cellini beat him to W&S to actually contract for legal defense counsel first. I believe that Blago must now go outside of W&S, which means more money and lots of time for the new attorney(s) to play catch up. If there is another opinion about this, I’d be happy to be enlightened.

Comment by Little Egypt Tuesday, Dec 9, 08 @ 6:11 pm
One last thing… a movie recomendation… watch Fargo tonight… it fits the whole situation so well… And when William H Macy says “I’m cooperating here,” you can almost see the governor saying that. It seems to be a fantastic allegory to this mess.

Comment by Heartless Libertarian Tuesday, Dec 9, 08 @ 6:15 pm
What is really sad is that he is correct. He has done nothing wrong and probably was surprised to be taken away as he was. What is sadder, he won’t resign for the good of the state, or even to be able to say he has the best interests of the state at heart. What is saddest, is that if he is not incarcerated, he could win another term as Governor. Illinois voters are at least as delusional as he is, maybe moreso. A pox on both our houses, and our mansion, too. We love the dirty player.

Comment by Captain Flume Tuesday, Dec 9, 08 @ 6:30 pm
This is all intra party stuff. I don’t see allot of D’s behind everyone’s name. This is the way Democrats behave. Blago learned at the knee of a ward committeeman and made his way through the ranks, this is how it’s done in Democratic circles. It’s called politics, in Illinois. Why should the GOP help the Democrats get out of this mess? Why go in early? Let the Democrats work it out themselves. Why should the GOP do anything? The Dem’s let us hang for years with George Ryan even supporting him more than Republicans did keeping him relevant. As Blago would say F— them

Comment by westside worker Tuesday, Dec 9, 08 @ 6:35 pm
LE, no opinion, just a fact. Winston fired Blago some time ago when the bill wasn’t paid on time. No more, no less.

Comment by Arthur Andersen Tuesday, Dec 9, 08 @ 6:36 pm
I think we are about to see Rod’s “testicular virility.” Especially when he starts to squeal on just about every person whose name he can remember. Chicago will need another 100 FBI agents just to run down Rod’s bogus accusations.

Comment by Big Mama T Tuesday, Dec 9, 08 @ 6:36 pm
I can’t wait to hear the story about how, on his way home from the courthouse, the Governor rolled down the window of his car and spoke to a little black girl, about 10 year old, who said…..

Comment by DuPage Dave Tuesday, Dec 9, 08 @ 6:44 pm
Sorry for a stupid question, but who sponsored the bill that Fitz spoke of today? If it meant so much to one person that it warranted a $100,000 contribution to G-Rod, some money must have gone to the sponsors as well…

Comment by Desert Dweller Tuesday, Dec 9, 08 @ 6:51 pm
I think Rod left the planet a few years ago. What the legislators do or do not support means not a whit to him. It does not follow that the legislators got money, it could be something they have supported for years. In this case, Rod saw an opportunity to cash in, and he tried.

You wonder how many bills over the past 6 years passed or failed based on a donation or lack thereof.

I would also like to throw out a little bit in defense of legislators and others who did not roll on the Gov. when confronted with pay-to-play. The guy was firing people left and right to settle scores. Would you want to be responsible for your wife’s second cousin once removed losing his job for no apparent reason? And the result would have been what? Probably nothing for years. And in the meantime, cousin Bob is broke and loses his house, and the family is on the street, etc. Who wants to be responsible for that?

Comment by Pot calling kettle Tuesday, Dec 9, 08 @ 7:07 pm
Oh no! Rod put Obama’s Senate seat on EBAY!

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=220327037270

Comment by hisgirlfriday Tuesday, Dec 9, 08 @ 7:08 pm
Man o man, you guys have a total psychopath on your hands in Illinois! Our governor was a sex addict; yours is a cash junkie! I’d rather have a sex addict.Is there no one in government who actually cares about the stuff that needs to get done for their citizens? The entire country is being flushed down the toilet at every level and all these guys can think about is their wallets or their private parts. Wake up people! The 2 party system is done!

Comment by And I thought New York politicians were corrupt Tuesday, Dec 9, 08 @ 7:25 pm
What I thought was interesting was the the way Fitz answered the question about Obama’s contacts with the Gov on the appointment issue. When asked he said there is nothing in the court papers that indicate any involvement with the pres-elect. Well, he drafted the court papers. The proper follow-up was does your office have ANY evidence of Obama and Blago talking about the issue directly or via channels. It’s not like even golden boy Fitz would put his soon-to-be-boss in the filings if he could avoid it. Nontheless, it would be nice for the public to know. Reality? Fat Chance!!!

Comment by Nancy Drew 2 Tuesday, Dec 9, 08 @ 7:29 pm
Never mind if he resigns or not. Impeach him now - right now! Monday is WAAAY too far in the future.

Comment by Excessively rabid Tuesday, Dec 9, 08 @ 7:33 pm
Don’t you all think we should just leave this resignation thing up to guv to do the right thing? No, I didn’t think so. Therefore all of the legislators and judicial system prosecutors should proceed with all due haste to rid our state government of this blight on our already tainted reputation. Let that mark the beginning of healing.

Comment by A Citizen Tuesday, Dec 9, 08 @ 7:44 pm
Sorry, I forgot this. http://blogs.abcnews.com/politicalpunch/2008/12/questions-arise.html Maybe Dave the “Axe” was wrong.

Comment by Nancy Drew 2 Tuesday, Dec 9, 08 @ 7:49 pm
Does this really surprise anyone?

Illinois Politics

Lets try putting the tax payers first at least once in a while.

Comment by Rick Tuesday, Dec 9, 08 @ 7:52 pm
Pot / Kettle’s defense of the legislators who stood by, if true, is a sad diagnosis, one that is Soprano-esque in its acceptance of complicity and the need to guard one’s interests.

If the sheer number of GA family members working at various agencies meant that nearly everyone had self-interested reasons to keep quiet about rampant corruption then we truly, desperately need an overhaul that goes way beyond the gov’s circle.

Comment by Way South of the Border Tuesday, Dec 9, 08 @ 7:56 pm
–Who is Sheldon Sorosky?–

AA, as I’m sure you know, he’s a nobody. From what I understand, he’s the dude who represented Patty’s sister in her disorderly conduct beef a few years back at the Gay Rally.

The so-called big hitters didn’t answer their phones today. After all this, the dude doesn’t have the cash to mount a first class defense. Can you believe it?

After such a bewildering day, it’s important to step back and recall that the complaint today has nothing to do with the multitude of investigations that have been going on for years. They’ve got so much on this guy, it will take years to sort it all out.

Jogging suit to court, governor? Paulie Walnuts, here. That says it all.

Comment by wordslinger Tuesday, Dec 9, 08 @ 7:58 pm
I’d still like to see those subpoenas he was ordered to make available. Today’s events are very recent - those subpoenas cover the past couple of years, at least. The volume of corruption and corrupt co-players is relevant.

Comment by A Citizen Tuesday, Dec 9, 08 @ 8:05 pm
There should be some way all the Requests for Proposals and contract awards published on the Illinois Procurement Bulletin be put on hold until thoroughly reviewed. Obviously, the selection process is tainted. No contract should be awarded until Blago, and his agency directors and deputy directors are replaced.

Comment by Can't Use My Nickname Tuesday, Dec 9, 08 @ 8:10 pm
Corruption is going in this State? After nearly 20 years in government I am appalled! When did this happen?

Comment by the ole precinct captain Tuesday, Dec 9, 08 @ 8:10 pm
word, I just about spit taco salad all over the screen while reading your last line.

Granted, the G doesn’t allow guys on the way to the slammer time to do the four S’s and don a slick suit and fancy Chevral (sp) tie like The Defendant favors, but geez, a jogging suit? Anything but that. Paulie Walnuts. LoL.

AA has it on good authority that the AUSA in question departed the Blago arrignment for a vigorous round of handwashing and a big spritz of Purell.

Comment by Arthur Andersen Tuesday, Dec 9, 08 @ 8:18 pm
State government is so big everyone has a friend or relative who works for the state. The Gov’s office had a reputation for finding those links. Most of these people are not political appointees who know the political realities of their jobs. I’m talking about people hired into a career job based on qualifications and merit who just happens to be related to or know a legislator or political operative. This Gov. had a reputation for going after career types with many years in office to get at a friend or relative. As a recent example, consider the park closures. Is there anyone who thinks that wasn’t payback? If you were a legislator who bucked the gov and as a result DNR employees in your district lost their jobs (or IDOT employees were transferred 150 miles away), how would you feel?

Comment by Pot calling kettle Tuesday, Dec 9, 08 @ 8:20 pm
I hear you, Pot / Kettle. I just don’t know of any other sector where the players protect their own from small p or capital P political vagaries on such a scale.

Those of us in the private sector mostly just take our lumps and wait tables or something until we re-land on our feet. Not that that’s any better.

I truly don’t mean to sound callous toward people who have suffered under this man — I’m just struck by the size and scope of corruption’s cost.

Comment by Way South of the Border Tuesday, Dec 9, 08 @ 8:31 pm
“GRod yesterday: Go ahead and tape me!
Fitz today: We have been, you dumbass.”

Now that’s telling em!

Comment by Levois Tuesday, Dec 9, 08 @ 8:31 pm
We wish you a merry fitzmas!
(December 2008 arrangement)

Chorus

We wish you a merry fitzmas
We wish you a merry fitzmas
We wish you a merry fitzmas and a happy 9 years!

Good Tidings to you and yes Resko too
Good Tidings for Fitzmas and a happy 9 years!

Oh bring us some Bleeping Money
Oh Bring us some Bleeping Money
Oh Bring us some Bleeping Money and some hospital gear

We wont go til your convicted
We wont go til your convicted
We wont go til your convicted, or you appoint yourself out of here.

You’ll sleep tight right next to Ryan
You’ll sleep tight right next to Ryan
You’ll sleep tight right next to Ryan as you do time next year.

We wish you a merry fitzmas
We wish you a merry fitzmas
We wish you a merry fitzmas as you enjoy 9 years!

Merry Fitzmas everyone!!!!

Comment by prairiestatedem Tuesday, Dec 9, 08 @ 8:39 pm
It’s clear that some went to Fitz, maybe many.

And in this case, I think it went beyond players protecting their own. I think the players were trying to protect those not involved and the gov played on that.

Comment by Pot calling kettle Tuesday, Dec 9, 08 @ 8:45 pm
It was obvious to many from almost the beginning how corrupt and vengeful Blago’s conduct was. Where was the outrage, where was the media attention, where were the editorials when only days after being sworn in (in 2003) Blago began firing state workers? Today’s arrest was a sweet victory but far too long in the making.

Comment by No Plan B Tuesday, Dec 9, 08 @ 8:52 pm
I wonder how this would of affected the election if Rod got indicted before Nov 5th?
Rod could sing about Emil Jones and Rezko and hurt Obama.
I figure the US Attorney timing has to do with the Senate appointment.

Comment by Dominic Tuesday, Dec 9, 08 @ 8:53 pm
On Hodge, On Stratton, On Walker, On Kerner, On Nixon, On Ryan, On Blago, On Donner, On Blitzen, On Fitzgerald, And to all a Goodnight!

Comment by A Citizen Tuesday, Dec 9, 08 @ 9:05 pm
I think the attorney’s firm has a big contract with the department of employment security. They represent people with unemployment claims.

Comment by Ken Tuesday, Dec 9, 08 @ 9:07 pm
Wow, talk about a bad “a funny thing happened on the way to the office today” day. Enough headlines to fill quite a few scrapbook pages under that title.

Comment by Anonymous Tuesday, Dec 9, 08 @ 9:24 pm
Mr. Sorosky appears to be Chairman of the Illinois Criminal Justice Information Authority.

http://www.icjia.state.il.us/public/index.cfm?metaSection=About&metapage=BIOS01

Comment by Anonymous Tuesday, Dec 9, 08 @ 9:24 pm
Martindale.com has one attorney by that name in Cook County. AV rating.

http://www.martindale.com/Sheldon-M-Sorosky/905621-lawyer.htm

Comment by Anonymous Tuesday, Dec 9, 08 @ 9:30 pm
I received my christmas present TODAY! I had such high hopes when I voted for him the first time, I thought CHANGE could only be better. How sad for all of us in the SOI. Nobody cares for the working class only for themselves. Illinois is nothing but a stepping stone for a higher office for some of them. I hope Obama does not follow in this jokers foot steps.

Comment by ivoted4judy2 Tuesday, Dec 9, 08 @ 9:43 pm
There are many many crazy things
That will keep us loving you
And with your permission
May I list a few

The way you wear your hair
The way you love to swear
The jogging derriere
No they can’t take that away from me

The way your smile just beams
The way you lie with ease
The way you haunt our dreams
No they can’t take that away from me

We may never never meet again, on that bumpy road to jail
Still I’ll always, keep the memory of your fail

The way you blamed poor Mike
Mocked how we danced with George
Too bad you won’t get life
But perhaps now the top bunk’s yours

Comment by Frankie Tuesday, Dec 9, 08 @ 9:46 pm
Unusual Christmas carolers this year, but I gotta say I like it.

Comment by Gregor Tuesday, Dec 9, 08 @ 9:48 pm
I know this may seem a rather odd emotion, but my initial reaction, and still what I feel now, was relief. I was seriously beginning to wonder how many more legislative sessions the state was going to have to survive Blagojevich’s misrule.

I feel sorry for the children of the family.

Comment by Angry Chicagoan Tuesday, Dec 9, 08 @ 9:50 pm
everyone knows what rod did was wrong, my question is “where is the line that separates politics and official action”? is lobbying and being a fundraiser at the same time illegal, or at the least will it get you questioned by the FBI? Also, what about an elected official saying they will vote for a pro labor bill for an endorsement by a labor union, is that now illegal? just some thoughts.

Comment by anonymous1 Tuesday, Dec 9, 08 @ 9:57 pm
As the snow flies…

On a cold and grey Chicago morn
as a noisy hand is knocking on the guv’s front door,
come for Blago.
And his momma cries.

“Cause if there’s one thing that’s well-agreed
is that the golden rule she taught him’s one he’d never really heed
little Blago

People Don’t you understand,
It’s all the fault of Re pUB li cans
and he’ll grow to be a congressman some day
People look at you and me
Who voted for this freak?
And who repeated their mistake and voted yet again

Well the ward turns…
And the guy who can’t do math, or spell
also sucks at learning law
but he marries really well
congrats Blago

Here’s a lovely card.

Then one day, George Ryan’s gone
the path ahead is clear:
Win his job, raise the cash
make like a Clinton but then comes the crash
as the budget slides
and the press gathers ’round the former great man
who says nothin’s really wrong, all’s according to plan
Sorry Blago

And as he makes his bail

On a cold and grey Chicago morn,
another anecdote about the Cubs is told…..

……Crazy Blago.

And our citizens cry

Comment by Elvis Tuesday, Dec 9, 08 @ 10:06 pm
There’s nothing to hold Mike Madigan back now from pulling the trigger on impeachment. Right away. Emil will have to take it and smile. Every member but Jay and Hollywood will vote aye. There’s not a senator that could survive re-election if they voted no. A quick and clean kill, before the holidays, and everyone will be in a great mood to start off a new year fresh, with Pat, John, and Mike. This cannot be allowed to fester any longer, delay just unravels the government and budget more.

Comment by Gregor Tuesday, Dec 9, 08 @ 10:16 pm
What i am saying is if you extrapolate the facts from what rod did is if a politician asks for a political favor (money, endorsement, GOTV (like HDO soldiers)) from a group or individual in exchange for the politician performing an official action (voting for a bill, appointing a senator) is that illegal? If that is the case the indictment goes a lot deeper than just rod (we all know that what rod allegedly did by seeking personal financial gain is illegal, it is the other stuff that is worrisome).

I just think that the theft of honest services is so broad that it is difficult to understand when the line is crossed. a line from caddyshack comes to mind, “this isn’t russia, is it?”. and a line from law school comes to mind, “bad facts make bad law.”

Comment by anonymous1 Tuesday, Dec 9, 08 @ 10:21 pm
What happened to that one Deputy Governor that went to the Illinois Finance Authority? Don’t tell me they will let him keep that job and pass billions to Blago Buddies??????

Comment by Joe the Bartender Tuesday, Dec 9, 08 @ 10:26 pm
Harris deserves what he got. He was arrogant at the City and acted like he was Invincible in that pathetic Chief of Staff job. Now he will be a different kind of Chief of Staff!

Comment by Frankie Valli Tuesday, Dec 9, 08 @ 10:28 pm
Citizens should pass a law that ban’s people who serve on the Governor’s Staff OR in cabinet positions from serving as Lobbyists for a 4 year period. We need REFORM! Enough is enough! I am sick of this crap!

Comment by Tony Soprano Tuesday, Dec 9, 08 @ 10:30 pm
Rich Miller — you should find out who Blago put where in the last few weeks of the administration (any transfers to boards and authorities) to protect people. What a Scam!!!!

Comment by Friendly Paul's Advice Tuesday, Dec 9, 08 @ 10:33 pm
I feel sad for his children. Very sad. I derive no pleasure from his dramatic and tragic fall. I do not laugh or mock a man who is coming to grips with his own destruction. Illinois has for so long tolerated corrupt politicians that he must have some sense that this is bum luck, that he has landed on loss a turn or go back 3 spaces while so many he knows in government make hand-wringing pronouncements about how “shocked” they are about all of this. So many he knows who created this totally corrupt system from top to bottom system. So many he knows who seek to feast on his carcass and damn his memory. I never voted for this guy, knowing full well how he would compromise the powers of the office, I still understand the tragedy here. While our Gov. is muttering “Sic fata decretum” others are musing that it is necessary to cull the herd to keep the Dems in power. “Pauli, ah you wont see Pauli no more.” Illinois politics is pathetic. Hopefully, blood-lust for the next political scalp will give way to resolve to put decent people in positions of authority. Alas, Illinois, you may be jaded to save thy self. My prayer is that Illinois cleans up its act, my money is on Illinois continuing on as usuall.

Comment by 4th Generation Doctorate Tuesday, Dec 9, 08 @ 10:33 pm
Another of Mayor Daley’s finest heading to jail!

Comment by Deep Water Tuesday, Dec 9, 08 @ 10:35 pm
Can’t wait for Hollywood to pick this up. Who will play Blago? Harris? Filan? Greenlee? Wyma? Monk? Cellini? Rezko? What a group of clowns! They are the laughing stock of National Politics!

Comment by Blago the Movie Tuesday, Dec 9, 08 @ 10:36 pm
Hell, O.J. left fewer finger and footprints that Blago did. He should be impeached for being stupid.

Comment by Orethal Tuesday, Dec 9, 08 @ 10:39 pm
I’ve just been channel surfing—laughing at all the national people trying to explain Illinois politics. I think Rachel Maddow on MSNBC spent the whole hour on it…..one of Anderson Cooper’s workers called him “Rodney Blagojevich”… and Keith Olbermann was just worried about it tarnishing Obama…

Comment by Vote Quimby! Tuesday, Dec 9, 08 @ 10:39 pm
I wish I would have started Capitol Fax.

Comment by So ILL Tuesday, Dec 9, 08 @ 10:43 pm
I watched the national stuff too. I can’t remember now (regrettably) who the talking head was, but when asked about how Blagojevich came to power, he described his years before becoming a Congressman as “he kind of worked his way up to marrying the right woman.” Gotta love Fox News for the in depth reporting they do during Greta’s programs.

Comment by So ILL Tuesday, Dec 9, 08 @ 10:49 pm
Pee Wee should star as Blago with the opening scene being a movie theater!

Comment by An Idea Tuesday, Dec 9, 08 @ 10:49 pm
Adam Sandler as John Harris–going to the Wrigley Bleacher section to negotiate.

Comment by An Idea 2 Tuesday, Dec 9, 08 @ 10:50 pm
Did the feds freeze or seize any of his property, i.e., bank accounts - personal or campaign?

Comment by Cheswick Tuesday, Dec 9, 08 @ 11:05 pm
Jill Zuckman from the Trib was on Hardball and said Chicago “is a good government kind of town” and that most of the corruption was “downstate in Springfield, in the governor’s office, in the statehouse”…. is she truly this clueless?

Comment by Vote Quimby! Tuesday, Dec 9, 08 @ 11:25 pm
It was a relief to see the feds finally nail the governor. For some five years, we at the Illinois Committee for Honest Government have been pointing out the hypocrisy that has been the hallmark of the administration Rod Blagojevich.

Once we among those who thought this young, energenic governor would bring true reform toour state. Boy, were we misled! The taped recordings released today by the prosecutor’s office show a greedy, vulgar sociopath, unfit for any public office or for any sympathy.

We join in the call for Rod B,lagojevich to do the right thing for once in his life and resign his office immediately.

RANDALL SHERMAN
Secretary/Treasurer, Illinois Committee for Honest Government, Chicago

Comment by Randall Sherman Tuesday, Dec 9, 08 @ 11:33 pm
Fed, Woo! Feds Woo! Feds Woo!

Comment by Roddie Woo Tuesday, Dec 9, 08 @ 11:49 pm
All day everyone has been asking, how stupid could he be to make these phone calls. What about the dummies who answered those calls and kept talking.

Comment by No Plan B Wednesday, Dec 10, 08 @ 12:01 am
Governor, govern thyself.

Comment by Ahem Wednesday, Dec 10, 08 @ 6:05 am
The impeachment question begs the question as to whether Governor Blogjevich has 21 friends in the Illinois State Senate. This number represents one vote short of a two-thirds vote to uphold the Illinois House’s Impeachment charge (the House has the responsibility under Article IV, Section 14 of the Illinois Constitution to investigate a cause for Impeachment and vote by a simple majority to pass the charge up to the Senate).
I do not believe the House will have a problem finding cause and evidence and surely will not have a problem finding the required 60 votes. Moreover, the Constitution requires that Impeachment trials of the Governor in the Senate would be presided over by the Chief Justice of the Illinois Supreme Court (currently held by a Republican).
This I do not think will be anything that would resemble anything speedy as the Legislative process is usually slow and this would turn out to be a nightmare dog and pony show just my the nature of the politically charged climate in Springfield that even existed for years before these latest events.
In the meantime, there is nothing to stop this Governor from making the appointment to the vacant US Senate seat in the mean while (except off course the US Senate not approving it). Obviously the best case scenario for taxpayers is for GRod to resign allowing Pat Quinn to take over and make an appointment that everyone would trust. This idea of a Special Election is going to be the worst case scenario for Illinois Democrats as they would stand a very good chance of losing the seat to the GOP.
This could have been avoided long ago when GRod was running for re-election to win with 48% of the vote. I as a Democrat have NEVER voted for this man and am flabbergasted by those who blindly followed this idiot over the cliff.

Comment by Smelly Cat Wednesday, Dec 10, 08 @ 6:23 am
The House should investigate all appointments made my the Governor.

Comment by Chanahan Man Wednesday, Dec 10, 08 @ 6:48 am
This is not the Rod Blagojevich that the Office of the President Elect knew. Another “distraction” for OPEUS.

Comment by InquiringMind Wednesday, Dec 10, 08 @ 7:00 am
Anonymous1 is concern trolling. Fitzgerald made clear during his press conference that he was not going after any kind of “political horsetrading” but rather Blago’s blatant attempts to sell a seat in the U.S. Senate for his own personal benefit.

Blago also made clear that political considerations — the quid pro quo that worries anon1 — were not high on his list (nor was governance for the public good). He said his decision about the senate seat would be strictly based on three criteria, in this order: “Legal. Personal. Political.”

Comment by Zora Wednesday, Dec 10, 08 @ 7:06 am
So now that this happened yesterday, when do the feds remove the taps and the bug, or have they already? What’s the rule for that, I’m assuming once charged or indicted, you take them off automatically? Or does Rod still have to worry who’s listening at home?

Comment by question Wednesday, Dec 10, 08 @ 7:34 am
Taaaa-daaaaaa!!!

Time for Elvis and his moll to do the “Jailhouse Rock!”

Comment by RBergman Wednesday, Dec 10, 08 @ 7:35 am
If the GA finds that the Senate seat needs to be filled via a special election, with all the expense that entail, I believe the ConCon backers who were considering (then backing off) a lawsuit over the referendum should renew those efforts. As long as we are having an election, let’s have a fair one re ConCon, too.

Comment by Con Con backer Wednesday, Dec 10, 08 @ 8:19 am
I wonder…if the process had been allowed ot advance a while longer, who would have been implicated? The Tribune sat on the story about as long as it could, and so the Feds had to work quickly. But if things could have played out, it would be interesting to see who would have been caught in the net.

Comment by Fan of the Game Wednesday, Dec 10, 08 @ 8:43 am
A Chicago cop is fired for selling pirated CDs but Rod Blagojevich gets to continue to serve as Governor until convicted!?! Unbelievable!!!!

Comment by ANON Wednesday, Dec 10, 08 @ 8:44 am
I agree that this gov may be the most corrupt in Illinois, maybe the nation. But I am confused so I ask this question: Just what did Blago DO? He talked alot about this and that, but did he actually DO anything illegal? Or is this a dumb question? If so, tell me why.

Comment by Confused Wednesday, Dec 10, 08 @ 8:59 am