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Emil Jones on impeachment; More Senate candidates surface

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[Senate President Emil Jones] wouldn’t say whether he thought Blagojevich should resign, instead taking reporters to school on the impeachment process – a process lawmakers could take up next week and until then Jones says state legislators should not be commenting on the charges against Blagojevich.

“The legal quandry that they find themselves in is that any articles coming out of the House cannot include the charges in the complaint filed by the U.S. attorney’s office because the U.S. Attorney is not going to turn over to that House all that evidence and witnesses because it would jeopardize the investigation. So that’s the dilemma that we’re in, understand what I’m saying?” Jones said.

The sole constitutional requirement for impeachment is 60 votes in the House. The sole constitutional requirement for removal is a 2/3 vote by the Senate.

Understand what I’m saying?

* Mark Brown is thinking impeachment is a criminal trial…

For instance, all that juicy “evidence” from the FBI wiretaps that has us all worked up against the governor isn’t really evidence at all for an impeachment case. State lawmakers wouldn’t have access to the real evidence against Blagojevich, only the prosecution’s allegations, and the governor wouldn’t really have a fair opportunity to defend himself.

Impeachment is a political act. He can be impeached and removed for crossing the street with the light.

* In other news, some people just don’t know when their time has passed..

A former Illinois politician and statewide office holder is expressing his desire for the now vacant Senate seat. CBS 2’s Suzanne Le Mignot reports.

Roland Burris was surrounded by supporters Saturday – supporters who are backing the former Illinois politician to fill the U.S. Senate seat, once occupied by President-Elect Barack Obama.

“Many of these are really my friends; I mean, I know them,” Burris said.”I am more than happy and willing and able to come to the call of my friend and to try to be able to bring some sanity and help to the people of this state and the people of America, in the United States Senate.”

* And I seriously doubt this will ever happen…

Is Chris Kennedy, the son of the late, great U.S. Sen. Robert F. Kennedy, a possible entrant on the list to fill Presidentelect Barack Obama’s Senate seat?

• • To wit: Sneed hears Kennedy’s name has been wafted into the inner circle of Lt. Gov. Pat Quinn, who would be the guy who chooses Obama’s replacement if Gov. Blagojevich resigns.

• • Quoth Dem politico Jay Doherty, a Kennedy confidant: “It would give Pat Quinn the answer to the puzzle before him if he becomes governor.”

• • The upshot: Word is Kennedy, who is also the nephew of Sen. Ted Kennedy, a major Obama supporter, is likely to accept if asked.

• • Hmmm: Wouldn’t that be something: An offspring of the legendary Kennedy line as a senator from Illinois? Stay tuned.

I like Chris Kennedy. He’s a great guy. The man has the Kennedy charisma in spades. He’d probably be a heckuva Senator. But wouldn’t three Kennedy’s in the US Senate be too much?

* Other stuff…

* Daley: Blagojevich should look “deep in his heart”

* Is it too little, too late from George Ryan?: “I don’t know how else to say it. My dad is looking for redemption. This came from him. This is from my dad’s heart,” said the younger Ryan. “… He told me: ‘I want to make this right.’ He said it was time for him to say something.”

* Indian Americans linked to Illinois scandal

* Many in Serbia amused, even proud, as Blagojevich defiant in corruption case

* Blago turmoil set to shake up statewide politics for years

* Blago’s wife fair game for shame, but will he try to protect her?

* Bernard Schoenburg: Story of Blagojevich abounds with contradictions

* Analysts lay down some reform guidelines

* Marin: Voters must demand campaign fund reform

posted by Rich Miller
Sunday, Dec 14, 08 @ 6:20 am

Comments

Did Emil cut a deal with the Guv? You betcha. I sure hope Emil is in Fitzgerald’s files somewhere.

Comment by Anon Sunday, Dec 14, 08 @ 6:40 am
Who’s Sneed channeling on the Kennedy story? Seems like a fair question to ask her from now on.

Comment by Bill Baar Sunday, Dec 14, 08 @ 6:42 am
Emil Jones came up thru the machine and that’s all he knows. Having 3 Kennedys in the Senate would be terrific. My generation.

Comment by Emily Booth Sunday, Dec 14, 08 @ 7:29 am
===The sole constitutional requirement for impeachment is 60 votes in the House. The sole constitutional requirement for removal is a 2/3 vote by the Senate.===

Darn straight. The man is a disgrace to the state and a pain in the side, and that’s grounds for removal if the votes are there. Enough already, let’s get it done.

Comment by Excessively rabid Sunday, Dec 14, 08 @ 7:40 am
I’m sorry to hog the blog but I just read Bernard Shoenburg’s editorial. I would like to see a tally of the total cost of Blagojevich’s incompetent and criminal administrative decisions: the lost federal dollars, the bills he signed for campaign contributions, the persons he hired, the commissions, boards and agencies he created, the closing of historic parks, etc. etc. How much money has he cost the people of Illinois?

Comment by Emily Booth Sunday, Dec 14, 08 @ 7:42 am
Looking for a silver lining in the Blago disaster?
The retching, fist-pounding anger, tears of joy, etc. which are connected with his exposure is a good warm-up for every new years resolution: More Exercise!

Comment by You Go Boy Sunday, Dec 14, 08 @ 7:46 am
If another Kennedy is the price we are going to pay for getting rid of Blagojevich than we might as well let him sell the seat. We need another of the Kennedy clan in politics about as badly as we need another Bush. Isn’t there someone not connected to the Chicago machine or swimming in political nepotism that could be appointed?

Comment by NimROD Sunday, Dec 14, 08 @ 8:04 am
Got to know Rich,is he from Illinois or are the going to move him in like Hillary did in New York?

Comment by NIEVA Sunday, Dec 14, 08 @ 8:38 am
Yesterday we asked where was Blagoof mater thug Eddie Reed…..WGN-TV showed him at the Burris presser.
Kennedy’s — just like the Capt. Fax blog — there can never be too much.
BTW Quinn seemed a little surprised and uneasy on Meet The Press when asked to review his praise of Blagoof.

Comment by 2ConfusedCrew Sunday, Dec 14, 08 @ 8:38 am
Chris Kennedy has lived in Chicago for over a decade. Runs the Merchandise Mart.

Personally, I’m against dynastic politics so I would hope soon to be Governor Quinn picks someone else.

I’ve added some more Blago toons to my collection. I particularly like the “Ratticus Governernorus” one. If you’re looking to waste some time see them here.

Comment by IrishPirate Sunday, Dec 14, 08 @ 8:42 am
Lisa Madigan and Pat Quinn are on Meet the Press this morning

Comment by Anon Sunday, Dec 14, 08 @ 9:01 am
Shouldn’t Emil recuse himself from the proceedings since he is one of the Senate Candidates? This is a huge conflict of interest.

Rich great weekend coverage.

Comment by He Makes Ryan Look Likea a Saint Sunday, Dec 14, 08 @ 9:09 am
When Mr. Burris constructed his monument to himself he left space open at the top of his list of accomplishments and he is going to fill it darn it!!!!!!!
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3153/2750018934_0e8778ca72.jpg?v=0

Comment by exit the stage, sir Sunday, Dec 14, 08 @ 9:12 am
We have our own relatives to appoint to office, we don’t need to import them from Massachusetts!

I say appoint Bill Clinton, there will only be one of them in the Senate at a time.

Comment by Mgmax Sunday, Dec 14, 08 @ 9:15 am
Folks, Christopher Kennedy is a lonnnngtime resident of Chicago — try using the Google or the Wikipedia….. really only takes about 10 seconds’ effort to have an answer for yourself…

Comment by Chambananon Sunday, Dec 14, 08 @ 9:17 am
BB, Sneed gets a lot of her stuff from Jay Doherty, a p.r. type who long has been Ted Kennedy’s man in Chicago. Ted had a national network of fundraisers and p.r. types.

Chris manages the Merchandise Mart. The Kennedy’s don’t own it anymore, but received a long-term management contract as a condition of the sale years ago (they did quite well on the sale if I remember).

As far as money goes, all the Kennedy’s work. Old Joe was the richest man in the U.S. once, but he had a lot of kids an a lot of grandchildren.

Comment by wordslinger Sunday, Dec 14, 08 @ 9:18 am
Well, it’s not over til it’s over. Could we be looking forward to a future in which the court decides not to act, the Legislature waffles (we know how decisive they are) and doesn’t impeach, and Blago settles in for a long legal battle with Ed Genson by his side. Could be a long two years.

Comment by Cassandra Sunday, Dec 14, 08 @ 9:19 am
2ConfusedCrew - Eddie Read (United Services) doesn’t want to lose his big lucrative and questionable contracts with IDOT. Burris also had a couple big contracts with IDOT. It is recommended that soon-to-be Governor Quinn form a committee with Auditor General to review the audits of state agencies to determine which agency heads should be fumigated first.

Comment by Can't Use My Nickname Sunday, Dec 14, 08 @ 9:20 am
Really you believe Google and Wikipedia??

Comment by NIEVA Sunday, Dec 14, 08 @ 9:20 am
With all the new awareness of narcissistic personality disorder, why would anyone want to turn to Roland Burris, who had NPD when Blago was still in diapers?

Comment by Anonymous Sunday, Dec 14, 08 @ 9:21 am
Burris is one of those characters who always seems to believe that they are starring in their own movie.

Edgar always seems to think he is co-star in his own movie.

Comment by IrishPirate Sunday, Dec 14, 08 @ 9:27 am
I see the rumors starting, that IL needs a special election to elect a governor. So, is part of this puzzle the fact that certain party leaders really don’t want Quinn as governor?

I second that Chris Kennedy is a good guy. Although, I will always believe that Obama only wants minorities on the replacement list. But, the pres. elect is probably distancing himself from the pick at this point.

Comment by Shelbyville Sunday, Dec 14, 08 @ 9:35 am
The talk of “evidence” as if it was a criminal trial is confusing. There’s no mention of it in the Constitution. Are people thinking that the House or Senate would have Rules of Evidence, testimony as to chain of evidence, cross-examination of evidence, etc.?

Understanding that federal and state impeachment are quite different, the Clinton and Nixon examples are illustrative.

In Clinton’s case, the House just took the Starr Report. The underlying “evidence” was never introduced or examined (thank God). With Nixon, the House Judiciary Committee never had possession of the Nixon tapes. In fact, the “Smoking Gun” tape wasn’t discovered until a couple of weeks after the committee had passed it’s three articles of impeachment.

Comment by wordslinger Sunday, Dec 14, 08 @ 9:52 am
Thinking along the lines of the Kennedy name and legacy, made me think of Sheila Simon.

IL. does have it’s own political families.

Although, she was defeated for mayor of Carbondale, she does have political aspirations.

Comment by Shelbyville Sunday, Dec 14, 08 @ 9:56 am
I don’t understand why Jones would say that Fitzgerald wouldn’t turn over information about the case in an impeachment proceeding. Remember, after the arrest and charges the rules of criminal procedure require that Fitzgerald pretty much give access to all the evidence by the defendant, and that would include the tapes. So I don’t see how releasing the tapes would jeopardize the criminal investigation.

Besides, the FBI affidavit is already public record and broadly distrbuted. That document alone provides all the evidence (under oath, natch) that is necessary to make the case for convction. If Blagojevich wishes to offer a defense, he can do so without involving the US Attorney.

Now, it may be true that there could be certain Fifth amendment issues involved, but that only happens if the House or Senate give some sort of immunity in exchange for compelled testimony. In this case, I would suggest that no immunity be offered — if Blagojevich or his cronies want to testify in their defense, they could do so voluntariy, meaning that their testimony is then admissible at the criminal trial. Since it’s voluntary, there’s no Ffth Amendment issue.

Comment by the Other Anonymous Sunday, Dec 14, 08 @ 10:02 am
MSNBC is reporting that the Gov will not resign on Monday.

Comment by Crystal Clear Sunday, Dec 14, 08 @ 10:08 am
Shelbyville, you can’t amend the state constitution based on “rumors starting” about a special election. If the Governor is unable to complete his term, the Constitution states very clearly that the Lt. Governor takes over. No special election, no legislative action, no ups, no extras.

Comment by read the state constitution Sunday, Dec 14, 08 @ 10:13 am
crystal clear, can you provide?

Comment by msnbc link, please Sunday, Dec 14, 08 @ 10:20 am
== understand what I’m saying?” ==

Listening to Emil Jones in any fashion gives me a headache.

Comment by Speaking At Will Sunday, Dec 14, 08 @ 10:22 am
On MSNBC it says a Governot’s Spokesperson: Gov will not resign on Monday. Turn on the TV.

Comment by Crystal Clear Sunday, Dec 14, 08 @ 10:29 am
==The sole constitutional requirement for impeachment is 60 votes in the House. The sole constitutional requirement for removal is a 2/3 vote by the Senate.==

In fairness, the Illinois Constitution requires a TRIAL in the Senate, prior to that vote. A trial typically requires evidence. This trial is not a purely political act. The trial is to be presided over by the chief justice of the Illinois Supreme Court. Prior to this trial, the legislators will take an oath to uphold the law. Again, this is not a purely political action. And, the Constitution speaks of “conviction,” again, not a purely political action.

The citizens of Illinois chose to vote down a Constitutional Convention. We are now stuck with our choice, for better or worse.

I appreciate the sense of urgency expressed here. I share it. Illinois is in a truly horrible situation, with no quick and easy remedies to remove a clearly unfit governor from office. But we do have to address the actual language of the Illinois Constitution and its requirements.

For reference, here is the applicable language:

SECTION 14. IMPEACHMENT
The House of Representatives has the sole power to conduct legislative investigations to determine the existence of cause for impeachment and, by the vote of a majority of the members elected, to impeach Executive and Judicial
officers. Impeachments shall be tried by the Senate. When sitting for that purpose, Senators shall be upon oath, or affirmation, to do justice according to law. If the Governor is tried, the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court shall preside. No person shall be convicted without the concurrence of two-thirds of the Senators elected. Judgment shall not extend beyond removal from office and disqualification to hold any public office of this State. An impeached officer,
whether convicted or acquitted, shall be liable to
prosecution, trial, judgment and punishment according to law.

Comment by Cowgirl Sunday, Dec 14, 08 @ 10:31 am
Cowgirl,
The point is that there are no provisions in the Constitution which lay out the grounds for impeachment. So, they can define “impeachable offense” however they want. So, the evidence can be “crossing the street with the light” as Rich says.

Comment by Crystal Clear Sunday, Dec 14, 08 @ 10:41 am
Read - I know that. I am all for the state constitution. I wish I had known who the congressman or state rep was that was saying that (about a special election for governor), but I didn’t see the beginning of the news piece. I will try google news.

The rumors floating on CNN are as bad as any.

A reporter said yesterday, that the governor would have to sign an impeachment order, too. They are just clamoring for little tidbits and a good many of them are false.

Comment by Shelbyville Sunday, Dec 14, 08 @ 10:42 am
I’d much rather have Burris than any Kennedy. He was elected, more than once, statewide.

Better a solid record than a name….

Comment by Pat Collins Sunday, Dec 14, 08 @ 10:42 am
Saw a Washington Post article that Lisa Madigan says there are some reports that the Gov may step aside Monday. Link below.

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/12/14/AR2008121400567.html

Comment by Nuance Sunday, Dec 14, 08 @ 10:44 am
Perhaps the guy saying that Lt. Gov. Quinn is “tainted”, also, was Andy McKenna - but I think I would have recognized him. Anyway, it is coming from the far right. I know you just can’t bypass the Lt. Gov.

Comment by Shelbyville Sunday, Dec 14, 08 @ 10:54 am
Rich, we may be able to impeach a Governor at our sole discretion without any evidence of an impeachable offense (remember, not that long ago you asked us to comment on what the minimum grounds for impeachment are). That doesn’t mean we should and I hope we don’t.

You are effectively saying that as long as one party had a super-majority in the Senate and a majority in the House, they can impeach anyone they want, for any reason or no reason. That doesn’t sound appealing to me even if its true, and I’m not sure it is.

So, could the Speaker reach an agreement with Cullerton, impeach and remove Blago, then impeach and remove Quinn, just so Lisa could be Governor? I hope not

Comment by steve schnorf Sunday, Dec 14, 08 @ 10:55 am
But if he really is trying to get some kind of quid pro quo for resigning, wouldn’t Monday be a little soon to to nail down the quo. He hasn’t even formally hired Genson yet. And there’s always that old devil money. Didn’t it cost $20 million (gratis, of course, thanks to Big Jim) or thereabouts to defend Ryan. I don’t think Blago has that kind of money, but what could he buy with the money in his campaign chest plus “donations” from sympathetic rich Dems. A few weeks of haggling, at least.

Comment by Cassandra Sunday, Dec 14, 08 @ 11:01 am
Further on my comment above. I had hoped someone had learned something from the pathetic and stupid attempt on the part of my party to impeach Clinton. Maybe not.

I feel compelled to add that my comment is not a reflection on our AG. I think she would make a dandy Governor

Comment by steve schnorf Sunday, Dec 14, 08 @ 11:02 am
RICH

I have yet to see you address the issue concerning a new house and senate will be in place in early January.

If the current house moves on impeachment would there be time for the senate to act before January?

I know you are of the opinion tha they can impeach for any reason; but even you have to admit it takes time and should not be cosidered a “kangaroo court proceeding” Your thoughts on this matter could be enlighting.

Comment by MOON Sunday, Dec 14, 08 @ 11:03 am
The point about impeachment is not that the legislature can (or should) give Rod the boot for no good reason. There are a long list of good reason (not only the affidavit and all it contains, but also all of Rod’s actions that do not follow legislative intent). The House draws up and votes on the terms of the impeachment and the Senate decides if they are true and fair and should result in removal of the Gov. This is exactly what we elect those men and women to do: make important, reasoned decisions on our behalf. That is why the constitutional language is vague. The super-majority votes are required so that a high standard (whatever that may be) is met.

Comment by Pot calling kettle Sunday, Dec 14, 08 @ 11:11 am
Could invocation of a sitting Governor’s fifth Amendment privilege to refuse to incriminate himself be an impeachable offense? Don’t most civil servants face sanctions for refusing to respond truthfully in an investigation into their conduct as civil servants?

Comment by My Kind of Town Sunday, Dec 14, 08 @ 11:21 am
SPECIAL ELECTION

I am of the opinion that a special election is the way to go.

I also believe tha Alexi would benefit the most from a special election should he decide to run.

Alexi has distinquished himself in his current position. He has state wide recognition. He has substantial personal wealth, thus his fund raising ability is far superior to any other potential candidates.

What do others think with regards to this?

Comment by MOON Sunday, Dec 14, 08 @ 11:23 am
Roland Burris was on WGN last night and I found this article from the Defender last month on his interest in that Senate seat. Blogged about it this morning.

http://tinyurl.com/594rmc

Comment by Levois Sunday, Dec 14, 08 @ 11:25 am
I’m working from memory here, so correct me if I’m wrong.

IIRC, Fitz was asked at the press conference if he would share information from the criminal investigation with the legislature for impeachment.

Again IIRC, his answer was something to the effect that when he receives a request for information he’ll determine what can be shared without jeopardizing his investigation.

There’s various ways to proceed. For example, I suspect the charge of selling the Senate seat will be problematic to charge in criminal court. (The Children’s Memorial quid pro quo seems the most straightforward charge, if not the sexiest.)

So Fitz could give the recordings pertaining to the U.S. Senate seat to the General Assembly while keeping the other stuff.

Alternately, if Fritchey or Madigan put out a call for people who had been shaken down by Blago, I expect they would get multiple responses at this point. There’s nothing that prevents an impeachment from calling the same witnesses Fitz plans to use in a criminal trial.

Jones’ problems/concerns with impeachment hardly seem insurmountable.

Comment by Carl Nyberg Sunday, Dec 14, 08 @ 11:36 am
Okay, did anyone see SNL last night? While completely embarrassing for IL, it was still hilarious.

Comment by Anon Sunday, Dec 14, 08 @ 11:38 am
Lisa M. stated that the governor could resign and still collect his salary. (Meet the Press)

How would that work? I mean, is that so?

Comment by Shelbyville Sunday, Dec 14, 08 @ 11:42 am
Carl, there’s no way in the world Fitz would give up any tapes for an impeachment. Chain of evidence; he’d jeopardize his own case. I doubt he could if he wanted. The federal judge did not approve the wiretaps for such a purpose.

There’s a federalism issue as well. I think the GA should do its job and stay out of the Justice Department’s business, and vice versa.

Comment by wordslinger Sunday, Dec 14, 08 @ 11:43 am
Lisa M. on Face the Nation was mostly straightforward.

but the side by side of Lisa and Pat Q. on Meet the Press, not so much. Gregory grilling them and that twitch of the left side of Lisa’s mouth to the question of her political future was
priceless.

as was any video of Pat and Lisa sitting there side by side.

popcorn at 10 am !

Comment by Amy Sunday, Dec 14, 08 @ 11:51 am
Carl, your recollection is not exactly on point. USA Fitzgerald said that he had not considered that possibility (of sharing evidence with the GA) and he deferred answering the question.

As a practical matter, there is no bleeping way that he will give anyone else the first shot at those tapes.

As far as Burris-the combination of his six-figure no-work IDOT contracts and his high five-figure no-work contracts withe Loop Capital probably take Roland out before he’s in.

I know I’ve said this before, but when the guy said “someday the license plates in Illinois will read ‘Land of Burris’” that was more than enough for old AA.

Comment by Arthur Andersen Sunday, Dec 14, 08 @ 12:05 pm
On a different topic, President Bush went to Iraq the last few days. During a press conference a guy stood up and threw a shoe at him.

http://blogs.abcnews.com/politicalradar/2008/12/iraqi-man-throw.html

Comment by Speaking At Will Sunday, Dec 14, 08 @ 12:10 pm
Anon number one, If this is what you wish for for Xmas and Emil isn’t in Fitzgerald’s files anywhere or the investigation. I hope you still can have a happy holiday even if you don’t get what you want.

I hope all these politicians are careful trying to hurt one aanother because history shows there all in the same soup together. Like the Sun times where’s Madigan/ Better still where is Cullerton? I know Cullerton said he ws going to clean things up! Cullerton was all over the news puttinng his spin out just a few weeks ago. About Obama’s theme change! Where is he now? I guess I have to stay tuned.

Comment by anon 20 Sunday, Dec 14, 08 @ 12:10 pm
Anon, I saw the SNL skit at the beginning, but nothing else. I have to admit, I didn’t really like it ’cause I couldn’t get past that stupid New York/New Jersey accent they gave him. I did laugh at the guy impersonating Byrd, though. And the line by “Elizabeth Dole” saying that Blago was a disgrace to Illinois - and then correcting herself to say that maybe he wasn’t a disgrace to Illinois, but he would be considered a disgrace in any of the other 49 states - was kind of funny.

Comment by Lazy Sunday Sunday, Dec 14, 08 @ 12:13 pm
Shelbyville- re: your “Obama only wants minorities” comment. Only 1 of the 5 names Obama sent to Blago’s office was a minority. You coulda read that on this blog….

Comment by DuPage Dave Sunday, Dec 14, 08 @ 12:15 pm
In John Kass’s column today he state’s
“In Illinois, I guess, political mental health is just a state of mind.” He talks about how Mayor Richard Daley reacts when he questioned about corruption in his administration.

The arictle link http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/columnists/chi-kass-blago-14-dec14,0,2487119.column

It’s worth reading. John Kass is connecting the dots in this article and a previous article this week. All of these elected officials are connected. So, how can we single out one, Emil Jones stating he’s from the machine and not others? I don’t think so.

Comment by South Side Sunday, Dec 14, 08 @ 12:23 pm
As a Republican I should be gleeful that Madigan, Jones and Daley, the three remaining leaders of the Illinois Democrat Party can’t find it in their hearts to call for the governor to resign, let alone impeach the jerk.

Every day they delay the GOP chances for knocking out every Democrat lawmaker outside Chicago increases dramatically.

Still, at this point, I don’t care what happens to the Republican in the future. Right now I want this cancer removed from our government.

It’s not a Democratic issue. It’s not a Republican issue, but by God if the Democratic leaders and some of the whiny donkey lawmakers like John Bradley don’t find some testicular virility of their own, it’s going to be.

Comment by Downstater Sunday, Dec 14, 08 @ 12:37 pm
“Folks, Christopher Kennedy is a lonnnngtime resident of Chicago”

I’m sure most people know that. They also know that the Kennedys have a long history of seeking office in multiple states, and surely we don’t need to add to that.

Comment by Mgmax Sunday, Dec 14, 08 @ 12:44 pm
I can’t believe Madigan cannot organize and deliver an impeachment in a week. If he doesn’t he’s going to seriously damage the Dem party by dragging this out. Better to clean house now, as far as before the next election.

The best case, of course, is for Blago to step down, but it looks like that won’t happen, so they need to move forward. This story will be in the news for years as the prosecution goes forward. It is less of a story if Blago is not the Gov.

Comment by Pot calling kettle Sunday, Dec 14, 08 @ 12:52 pm
BTW: Why isn’t there video of a secret service agent taking that shoe in the chest?

Comment by Pot calling kettle Sunday, Dec 14, 08 @ 12:55 pm
NIEVA - why wouldn’t you trust Google? All you have to do is type in “Christopher Kennedy Chicago” and you can get lots of websites that verify he is from Chicago.

Comment by Lazy Sunday Sunday, Dec 14, 08 @ 1:31 pm
I was dissapointed with the SNL portrayal of Blago. Did they even watch a video of him? He’s loaded with traits and quirkiness that provides great satire material. Instead we got some fast-talking stereotype of what I think was suppose to be a Chicagoan.

You want to see funny footage. Watch Bush dodging shoes at a press conference.

Roland Burris is sooo self serving. The precise reason we don’t want him to serve is because he says those people are his “friends” and then he adds “well, I know them.” Are they are aren’t they his friends?

Comment by Mo Sunday, Dec 14, 08 @ 1:41 pm
Regarding Bush: Not one, but two shoes? There are a couple of Secret Service agents with big knots in their stomachs right now.

To the president’s credit: Not only was he quick to duck, but he seemed to have a smile on his face when it happened. And a sense of humor later.

Comment by wordslinger Sunday, Dec 14, 08 @ 1:47 pm
Bush/Shoe video - amazing: http://cosmos.bcst.yahoo.com/up/player/popup/?rn=3906861&cl=11096193&ch=4226716&src=news

Comment by Ahem Sunday, Dec 14, 08 @ 2:11 pm
OK, perhaps someone with some prosecutorial experience can weigh in here. First, why would there be a chain of evidence problem (as suggested by wordlslinger) with the tapes? Even if the originals were turned over — and there’s no reason why a copy wouldn’t suffce — the chain of evidence would still be well documented for purposes of admitting the tapes into evidence.

Second, as to Arthur Andersen’s comment that Fitzgerald would want “first shot” at the tapes: didn’t he already get his shot? Again, I am pretty certain that the rules of federal criminal procedure require that Blagojevich gets to hear the full the tape. As a strategic matter, I would love to have my opponent have to defend the tapes in a different forum before I present a case to the jury.

Last, I think Steve Schnorf’s concerns about arbitrary impeachment are correct. The difference here is that there is more than a modicum of evidence that can be presented for a trial in the Senate — a trial not bound by court rules on evidence. Moreover, Pot calling kettle is absolutely correct that there are grounds for impeachment outside the tapes that would create good precedent; impeachment is a proper tool to remove an executive who repeatedly signs legislation and then routinely ignores it.

Comment by the Other Anonymous Sunday, Dec 14, 08 @ 2:13 pm
Great reflexes on the Pres! I rarely have something to cheer about for him. I can’t see what he did about the 2nd shoe. Did he deflect it?

The thing about the governor is that he can’t keep a secret. He does have a few friends in town and they can’t keep one either. I was told of an original replacement list for Obama that only had 3 people on it.

Of course, who knows what to believe out of this guy, now. He could be a compulsive liar, for all I know.

Comment by Shelbyville Sunday, Dec 14, 08 @ 2:31 pm
The Mark Brown piece contains its own contradictory logic: Blago signing the autism bill, demonstrating he still has the power, is EXACTLY why the Supreme Court should act on the Rule 382 Motions (remember, Lisa’s is not the only one!) And saying he is only proscribed from unlawful action, but can continue to act lawfully? He was always required to act lawfully, but he doesn’t! Might as well try to argue with a post as with someone having Mr. Brown’s mindset.

The Editorial Board and staff of the Sun-Times seems very upset with the Rule 382 motions; more than one has publicly portrayed it (they have reported only on Lisa’s, haven’t they?) as an end-run around impeachment; one on MSNBC (Rachel Maddow’s show) even implied Rule 382 is unconstitutional! They should try reading it once in awhile.

The GA had their shot at enacting a law to delineate how to proceed under Article V, Section 6(d), and for 38 years the GA has taken a pass. Any talk about the AG or the Court attempting to usurp legislative functions is just ludicrous.

Comment by Oberon Sunday, Dec 14, 08 @ 2:57 pm
Loyal to the end. What I would pay to hear the converstaions between Emil and Blago.

Comment by Obama's Puppy Sunday, Dec 14, 08 @ 3:23 pm
===I have yet to see you address the issue concerning a new house and senate will be in place in early January.===

Then you weren’t paying attention.

Comment by Rich Miller Sunday, Dec 14, 08 @ 3:23 pm
I think I can predict where this is going. Blago will cut a deal to “step aside” while he defends himself and figures out who else he might take down with him. This will allow him to continue to proclaim his innocence, and, more importantly, continue to collect his $177k state paycheck plus
almost-free health insurance plus pension credits. This will also allow Mrs. B.time to hunt for a higher-paying job.

Conceivably, before he goes, he could appoint a US Senate replacement who is not going to have any trouble getting seated…it’s not clear that the Senate would be able to refuse to seat anyone he names, but it’s also clear that there are candidates who would easily pass muster. The Senate is going to be too busy bringing about change we can believe in and bailing out various
industries to make a fuss if the candidate is presentable. Especially if Blago has already taken his leave when the candidate gets there. Too bad for Jesse Jr, but those are the breaks, and being the son of a famous dad is a break he has already profited greatly from. He’s young yet.

Comment by Cassandra Sunday, Dec 14, 08 @ 3:30 pm
I think people should forget about the tapes for impeachment.

1. A federal judge did not sign off on wiretaps to use the product in a state impeachment. Huge federalism problem.

2. They’re not necessary for impeachment. Use the complaint if you want the substance. This is not a criminal trial. It’s not even a civil trial.

Comment by wordslinger Sunday, Dec 14, 08 @ 4:24 pm
I understand the point about potential “reckless” impeachment votes over simple political differences. And like Steve Schnorf, I thought what the GOP Congress did to Clinton was a misuse of the process.

In this case though, impeachment on a simple up-or-down vote, sans dog and pony show, is the way to go. Allow each member to speak during a roll call in both houses and put impeachment to a vote. The Governor has to go now. Each day we waste, Illinois loses.

I don’t think this will give any future impeachment effort any more legitimacy than it would otherwise have. We don’t need weeks of hearings and testimony to delay the required action. Just end it now and so we can move on.

Comment by 47th Ward Sunday, Dec 14, 08 @ 5:54 pm
I’m not too concerned that a Blago impeachment would lead to a rash of such actions in the future. What’s there been to now, just Heiple? Walker was certainly very unpopular and I don’t believe there was any serious discussion to impeach him.

This ain’t about unpopularity.

Comment by wordslinger Sunday, Dec 14, 08 @ 6:39 pm
===To wit: Sneed hears Kennedy’s name has been wafted into the inner circle of Lt. Gov. Pat Quinn===
Whatever happened to Sneed’s great sources within the US Attorney’s office? Didn’t she print on the day Blago was arrested that Art Turner’s name was being considered for the Senate seat. She didn’t seem to have a clue that anything was up at Fitz’s office.

Comment by Sneedlings Sunday, Dec 14, 08 @ 6:40 pm
I think it is bad timing for George Ryan (not that he should be let out). The arrest of Blagojevich is bringing a renewed sense of how much corruption is going on in Illinois. I especially like the part where Mrs Ryan stated that if George had to do it all over again , he would not change a thing. I don’t think (at least I hope not) she meant it the way it sounded.

Comment by this voter will remember Sunday, Dec 14, 08 @ 8:11 pm
word, I posted something snarky about the shoes elsewhere. Oops. Speaking of Oops, those two agents were definitely slow out of the chairs-unusual even in that setting to not have someone with at least a side view of the POTUS. We can rest easy, though, that everyone in that room, including probably Al-Maliki, was thoroughly screened before they got in and that the “journalist’s” only weapon was his Florsheims.

Nonetheless, that video will probably make its way into the training at Quantico.

AA also heard that Press Secretary Perino may have sustained a black eye from a mike stand in the melee as USSS or others rushed to “protect” her from the outsider. AA may be cynical, sexist, or both, but I can’t help but think that Marlin Fitzwater may not have received the same level of “protection.” May be wrong.

Comment by Arthur Andersen Sunday, Dec 14, 08 @ 10:00 pm
Y Y do state employees have to take a mandatory ethics test. Y do state employees have to sign to agree to “personal conduct rules” and if they violate them the state employee is PUT OUT on Admin. leave but not our elected officals. Double standards have to STOP IN ILLINOS No Title make one person better than another person. This “GoD” attitude has to stop. People are not stupid our elected officials have to start earning the money we are paying them. If the elected officials do not start impeachment proceding tomorrow let it be know that many people are watching and taking names and holding our officials accountable - there a new word for our ELECTED officials

Comment by ivoted4judy2 Sunday, Dec 14, 08 @ 11:21 pm
Chris Kennedy… he would add nicely to the embarrassment that is the “hand me down” political process here in Illinois. With each day it just keeps getting worse.

Comment by Nero Sunday, Dec 14, 08 @ 11:33 pm
One more vote for impeachment.

Put the federal complaint together with the testimony in the Rezko trial and I’d argue that there’s no reasonable doubt that Blago has been selling his office. Add the facts that he’s shown himself totally disinterested in his duties (unless they coincide with his self-interest) and that if the legislature were polled, less that 5 would say they trust the governor. It shouldn’t be that hard.

I don’t put much value on ’slippery slope’ arguments against impeachment (or slippery slope arguments in general). Moreover, I’d be glad to have the precedent out there for any other sociopaths predisposed to crime who might seek state office.

Comment by Quizzical Sunday, Dec 14, 08 @ 11:45 pm
I have concerns about the ability to proffer prrof in the Supreme Court case, ut the impeachment process should have no problem at all. The impeachment process would need to comport with due process by giving the Gov an opportunity to respond to the allegations against him. It does that. Illinosi has administartive hearings which allow for hearsay documents etc, there is no reason the impeachment process can not do the same.

the Legislature mentioned before being able to establish various retalitory acts by the Gov in terms of funding uts, firings tc. They coul submit this along with the newspaper clippings about the tape recordings and b done with it.

Comment by Ghost Monday, Dec 15, 08 @ 8:12 am