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* The House resolution creating the special impeachment committee can be found at this link. The committee will be allowed to administer oaths and compel testimony and documents “by subpoena signed by the Speaker of the House of Representatives.” That’s standard.
The committee will also be able to punish those who don’t cooperate…
to punish any person for the neglect, refusal to appear, or failure to produce papers or documents or provide evidence commanded by subpoena or who, upon appearance, either with or without subpoena, refuses to be sworn or testify or produce papers, documents, or evidence demanded of him or her
* The House convenes at 3 o’clock. You can listen or watch by clicking here. There will likely be some speeches and such. Post breaking developments in comments, please.
The Senate convenes at 5. Listen or watch here.
*** UPDATE 1 *** [Posted by Kevin Fanning] 4:45 p.m. - Rich is reporting that the Speaker will make an announcement about the special election bill on the floor soon. Speaker Madigan has told reporters that the cost of the election is his caucus’ biggest concern.
* The special election bill will not be moved to the floor today.
* 5:00 p.m. - Leader Currie has moved for the adoption of the resolution to create an impeachment inquiry committee.
* 5:05 p.m - Rep. Bill Black has made a motion to debate the alternative Republican bill which would instead create a committee of 5 Republicans and 5 Democrats.
* 5:10 p.m. - Rep. Black withdraws his request.
* 5:18 p.m. - Leader Cross has inquired about a special election. Speaker Madigan said that “we want to take some additional time to attempt to reach a consensus on the issue. These are Democrats I’m working with… in terms of the timeline just keep me in your prayers.”
* Cross - “We can start the healing and rehabilitation of this state by having a special election. With all respect to the other side of the aisle, it leaves us hanging, and the people of Illinois hanging, on whether or not the current Governor is going to appoint our next Senator. … We’ve taken one good step tonight, but the other step is a special election.”
* 5:25 p.m. - Speaker Madigan nodded yes to the question on whether or not the House will leave town after the vote.
* 5:42 p.m - Rep. David Miller- “Now is the time more than ever for the people of Illinois to come together. Tomorrow there will still be a kid who needs to go to college, or someone who needs a state service.”
* 5:50 p.m. - House Dems on the impeachment inquiry committee: Reps. Currie, Hannig, Mautino, Hamos, Fritchey, Lang, Franks, Turner, Flowers, Acevedo, Monique Davis, Howard
* 5:57 p.m - No House GOP list yet
*** UPDATE 2 *** [Posted by Kevin Fanning] 6:09 p.m. The resolution to create an impeachment inquiry committee has passed 113 - 0.
posted by Rich Miller
Monday, Dec 15, 08 @ 2:44 pm
Sorry, comments are closed at this time.
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Have the 21 very important people been named?
Comment by No Name Bureaucrat Monday, Dec 15, 08 @ 2:49 pm
This is the quote I like: investigating allegations of misfeasance, malfeasance, nonfeasance, and other misconduct of Governor Rod R. Blagojevich.
I’m not a lawyer, but I think it can be shortened to: investigating allegations of misconduct of Governor Rod R. Blagojevich.
But it wouldn’t be as fun to read aloud.
Comment by Carl Nyberg Monday, Dec 15, 08 @ 2:54 pm
Is there an incentive for the Gov to have evidence come out in impeachment hearings so it would somehow get excluded in a trial?
He would be getting tried twice on the same charges it seems. Just trying to figure out what his strategy would be here.
Comment by Bill Baar Monday, Dec 15, 08 @ 2:55 pm
==He would be getting tried twice on the same charges it seems. Just trying to figure out what his strategy would be here.==
Not anywhere close to double jeopardy. Heck, you can be tried federal and state for the same crime - and those are actual legal trials. This is a political procedure.
Comment by Peter Monday, Dec 15, 08 @ 2:58 pm
Bill, this is not a crinminal trial so no double jeopardy. The Gov would have every incentive for exculpatory evidence to come out, but none for inculpatory evidence.
Carl, that phrase should be preceeded by: oh ye, oh ye, oh ye, gather fast and stand near to hear as this honorbale committee convenes to….
Comment by Ghost Monday, Dec 15, 08 @ 3:00 pm
It is a shame that it required a Federal probe into this idiot’s conduct as governor for the Legislature to finally act. It is a long time overdue. The fact Blago is actually refusing to accept reality and resign, should indicate his lack of sanity.
Comment by Patriot Monday, Dec 15, 08 @ 3:04 pm
Ghost - You have it right phonetically, but the word is “oyez”. Comes into the legal jargon from French for “listen”. Same basic word in Spanish is the first in the song “Oye Como Va”.
Comment by DuPage Dave Monday, Dec 15, 08 @ 3:05 pm
This process sure isn’t sounding like the simple, political, up or down vote that some had predicted. This looks like a major motion picture with witnesses, testimony, documents, etc. This could go on for a long while.
I know the committee is going to work on this everyday between now and the end of the year (except the two holidays and eves) but we may be in for a long haul.
Comment by And I Approved This Message Monday, Dec 15, 08 @ 3:05 pm
Also not a lawyer, but wikipedia comes to the rescue.
When a contract creates a duty that does not exist at common law, the parties can do one of three things:
(1) perform the duty fully;
(2) perform the duty inadequately or poorly; or (3) fail to perform the duty at all.
When a party fails to perform at all, it is nonfeasance. When a party performs the duty inadequately or poorly, it is misfeasance. Malfeasance is used to denote outright sabotage which causes intentional damage.
I think Rod, wins the trifecta
Comment by Anon Monday, Dec 15, 08 @ 3:06 pm
Rich; non, mis, malfeasance. Same answer I gave to your query of some time back.
Comment by steve schnorf Monday, Dec 15, 08 @ 3:09 pm
DD, thanks. Now to find a way to work it into my every day conversations.
Comment by Ghost Monday, Dec 15, 08 @ 3:11 pm
I know it’s not a criminal trial but somewhere over the weekend I heard some talking head say there was something about evidence that would come out in impeachment proceedings and how it would effect the criminal trial.
There is just only so much about this story I can bookmark away and save…stuff keeps pouring in…
Comment by Bill Baar Monday, Dec 15, 08 @ 3:15 pm
I mean what kind of jury could he expect in Illinois if impeached?
Stuff like that….
Comment by Bill Baar Monday, Dec 15, 08 @ 3:16 pm
Understatement of the day goes to the AP. Reporting that the Gov isn’t “reacting” to the news of the impending proceedings.
I love this little gem:
“The governor’s situation is a stressful one for his staff. Guerrero said employees in Blagojevich’s office are stressed and feel a sense of uneasiness about their futures.”
Huh, ya think?
Comment by How Ironic Monday, Dec 15, 08 @ 3:17 pm
This is interesting and certainly broader than I expected.
Much remains to be seen, but if I were called before the committee, knowing full well that there are a number of federal investigations ongoing, I would take the 5th. Why take a chance on letting something slip here that the feds could use against you?
Geez, if the feds didn’t want Lisa stepping on their investigation as AG, what are they going to think about this? And what if they ask the House to limit the inquiry?
Madigan at his press conference seemed focused on Abuse of Power — spending without approps., ignoring intent of GA, etc. Maybe that will be the focus of this inquiry. Lots of ground to cover.
Comment by wordslinger Monday, Dec 15, 08 @ 3:18 pm
I would take the 5th.
No kidding… and what kind of option is that for a politican, ….or a member of a transition team?
Comment by Bill Baar Monday, Dec 15, 08 @ 3:21 pm
Is anyone else having trouble with the video?
Comment by Anon Monday, Dec 15, 08 @ 3:21 pm
Bill Baar ~
In response to your question, the Oliver North case:
on July 20, 1990, with the help of the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), North’s convictions were vacated, after the appeals court found that witnesses in his trial might have been impermissibly affected by his immunized congressional testimony. Because North had been granted limited immunity for his Congressional testimony, the law prohibited the independent counsel (or any prosecutor) from using that testimony as part of a criminal case against him. To prepare for the expected defense challenge that North’s testimony had been used, the prosecution team had - before North’s congressional testimony had been given - listed and isolated all its evidence; further, the individual members of the prosecution team had isolated themselves from news reports and discussion of North’s testimony. While the defense could show no specific instance where any part of North’s congressional testimony was used in his trial, the Court of Appeals ruled that the trial judge had made an insufficient examination of the issue, and ordered North’s convictions reversed. The Supreme Court declined to review the case. After further hearings on the immunity issue, Judge Gesell dismissed all charges against North on September 16, 1991, on the motion of the independent counsel.
(from wikipedia)
Is there a danger? Yes, but only if the Governor himself is subpoenaed and appears. Its doubtful that the General Assembly can enforce a subpoena against the Governor’s office or any member of the Executive. And my legal and political advice would be to “invite” the Executive to testify.
Any testimony given would be admissible in court, since it was not compelled. And if anyone refuses the invitation to testify, it can be “duly noted.”
I would still administer the oath to members of the Executive during their voluntary appearance, however. They would retain their right against self-incrimination, but perjury would attach to any untruthful testimony.
Comment by Yellow Dog Democrat Monday, Dec 15, 08 @ 3:27 pm
@ Anon - video loaded fine for me. It’s on the still of the chamber with no audio as they’re in recess at the moment.
Comment by Peter Monday, Dec 15, 08 @ 3:28 pm
Ok thank you, thats whats showing for me. I was unaware they were still in recess.
Comment by To Peter Monday, Dec 15, 08 @ 3:28 pm
thanks YDD
Comment by Bill Baar Monday, Dec 15, 08 @ 3:31 pm
Yep. They are in recess. Right now, Madigan is schooling Emil in a wicked game of tetherball.
Comment by How Ironic Monday, Dec 15, 08 @ 3:32 pm
The GOP has been quite active this afternoon sending out robo-calls. Declared Republicans get a machine telling them to press a number if they’re in support of a special election, and then they get transferred to their State Rep’s office. Makes for a busy day at the desk.
Also, did anyone else catch Rep. Brandon Phelps on Fox News with Shepard Smith about an hour ago? I was at a restraunt, so I couldn’t hear what he had to say.
Comment by LN Monday, Dec 15, 08 @ 3:32 pm
The feed at Illinois Channel isn’t working for me. That’s where I would watch these proceedings.
Comment by Levois Monday, Dec 15, 08 @ 3:33 pm
And what if [the feds] ask the House to limit the inquiry?–wordslinger
I think the feds have to suck it up. The feds may have power to hold onto evidence that they own (recordings), but the ILGA can call witnesses and the feds don’t have any right to interfere.
One of the tricks the House Republicans used to get the impeachment charges out of the House and over to the Senate was to privately make the case that Clinton raped Juanita Broderick. I specifically recall reading this was the case made to Rep. John Porter (IL10).
Just as the defense is free to make the case that the good of the governor outweighs his misconduct (the argument that saved Clinton), the people arguing for removal will be able to make the case that the known bad of Blagojevich outweighs the technicalities of the rules of evidence.
Comment by Carl Nyberg Monday, Dec 15, 08 @ 3:34 pm
I believe that Fitz will indicate to MJM who he can and can’t call as witnesses. I do not believe that the Fed’s want the mushrooms in the House exposing his witnesses to inane questioning by Perry Mason wanna be’s!!!!!!!!!!
Comment by ivoted4judy Monday, Dec 15, 08 @ 3:39 pm
Speaking of sessions, how did the electoral college go today?
Comment by Pot calling kettle Monday, Dec 15, 08 @ 3:40 pm
I’ll be interested to see the result of the discussions on the Senate seat…
I still advocate letting it stay as an appointment process but have the lege approve any mid-term appointment; no matter who the guv is.
By the time we have special elections we’ll have not only spent $50mil+ we don’t have but also lost 1/4th the time remaining on the term.
And appointing Roland Burris would at least satisfy a lot of “demands” — he’s African-American, he could be viewed as a placeholder, he hasn’t been involved in the S’field antics.
Comment by Rob_N Monday, Dec 15, 08 @ 3:41 pm
The committee could be a real trick bag for some. Say you’ve already been interviewed by the FBI. You better be sure your testimony to the committee jibes to the letter, because the feds don’t like it when stories change.
Comment by wordslinger Monday, Dec 15, 08 @ 3:43 pm
-LN-
=Did anyone else catch Rep. Brandon Phelps on Fox News=
It was not what he was saying that you needed to hear. He was running as far away from Blagojevich as he could. Every sentence he referred to Shepard Smith by his first name. Kinda creepy…
Comment by Southern Illinois Monday, Dec 15, 08 @ 3:43 pm
YDD overstates the problem actually. North was given limited immunity–as such the argument was that his testimony led to the Independent Counsel finding evidence he wouldn’t have found otherwise. Hence, evidence related to the testimony was thrown out.
As long as the Governor wasn’t offered immunity, the case is not relevant. And I think I can say no one is giving him immunity right now.
Comment by ArchPundit Monday, Dec 15, 08 @ 3:46 pm
NO to Roland B - haven’t we put a fork in him - several times? We are not at a loss for respectable, intelligent, moral leaders. They just don’t get elected to higher office (at least not often). Let’s move forward (both parties). No reason to go backward.
Comment by babs Monday, Dec 15, 08 @ 3:48 pm
….he hasn’t been involved in the S’field antics.
hmmm… read this.
Comment by Bill Baar Monday, Dec 15, 08 @ 3:51 pm
-Southern Illinois-
LOL. Why does that not suprise me?
Comment by LN Monday, Dec 15, 08 @ 3:52 pm
And I think I can say no one is giving him immunity right now.
Maybe he’ll ask? And over a compelling reason why his testimony worth it?
Comment by Bill Baar Monday, Dec 15, 08 @ 3:53 pm
I mean OFFER
Comment by Bill Baar Monday, Dec 15, 08 @ 3:54 pm
Is the House coming back tonight? I may have to go watch the train wreck.
Comment by Information Please Monday, Dec 15, 08 @ 3:55 pm
Has anyone else received an offer from the Speaker’s office to testify? They said they were contacting various industries to see if they want to participate. Said it could be about legislative dealings, JCAR or whatever dealings we have had with the governor. We would be sworn in and under oath but they were not subpeonaing witnesses (or at least not me). Just an invitation to testify.
Comment by They're Calling Monday, Dec 15, 08 @ 4:08 pm
Which member of the Rules Committee did not make it there in time to vote on the Impeachment Committee Resolution?
Comment by Rule Me Out Monday, Dec 15, 08 @ 4:30 pm
Rich
If you get any reports tonight or tomorrow from the Pat Quinn fund-raiser tonight, I am sure your readers would love to know what you heard about turnout, etc.
http://thehill.com/leading-the-news/quinn-fundraiser-a-hot-ticket-2008-12-15.html
CD
Comment by carbon deforestation Monday, Dec 15, 08 @ 4:32 pm
Burris is very close to Springfield antics as a legislator turned lobbyist.
Comment by Mo Monday, Dec 15, 08 @ 4:34 pm
Rob_N - Roland Burris was involved in Springfield antics as he was awaeded two big dollar do nothing contracts with IDOT. If my memory serves me right, Burris also held a fundraiser for Blago.
Comment by Can't Use My Nickname Monday, Dec 15, 08 @ 4:36 pm
PLEASE MR SPEAKER, spare all of us and keep Rep. Franks off of this impeachment committee!!!My choices would be Currie, Brosnahan, Mautino, Fritchey, Bradley, Colvin Acevedo, Hoffman, and the new kid Zalewski.
Comment by ivoted4judy Monday, Dec 15, 08 @ 4:37 pm
Hoffman to help initiate the Governor’s impeachment? That’s an interesting choice.
Comment by COPN Monday, Dec 15, 08 @ 4:43 pm
Hoffman?
Comment by Arthur Andersen Monday, Dec 15, 08 @ 4:45 pm
Why Hoffman? Seems like he would be at the bottom of the list.
Comment by Pot calling kettle Monday, Dec 15, 08 @ 4:47 pm
Yes Hoffman, if your are trying to show that you are offering the Gov a fair shot, then put his guy Hoffman on the committee. Does it really matter if the committee votes 20-1 to impeach. Nothing says it needs to be unanimous. Besides it starts the “healing process” Jay.
Comment by ivoted4judy Monday, Dec 15, 08 @ 4:49 pm
My proposal for Hoffman, Phelps, Black, and Mulligan was to raise money for the state with a pay-per-view cage match. (Black and Mulligan would be odds on favs to win.)
Comment by Pot calling kettle Monday, Dec 15, 08 @ 4:50 pm
Ken Dunkin should be named to the committee.
Comment by "low level paper pusher" Monday, Dec 15, 08 @ 4:51 pm
If I had the last name Phelps from So. Illinois. I would stay away from all microphones.
Comment by Leave a light on George Monday, Dec 15, 08 @ 4:54 pm
lol…Hoffman was on Fox2 STL this morning repeating his ’shocked and appalled’ schtick before trekking up I-55. If the GOP could pony up someone more legitimate than Kay they might have a chance next time. I know there a lot of VERY nervous Collinsville District IDOT appointees!
Comment by Vote Quimby! Monday, Dec 15, 08 @ 4:56 pm
The cost is the biggest problem? Yeah, right. Have it the same time as the spring primaries and then it is almost free. The only problem is that the democratic party insiders can’t control it, which going by their behavior the past 6 years isn’t very stunning. To those who worry about loss of representation or seniority problems, I would argue that we will have plenty of representation between Durbin and the White House.
Comment by just me Monday, Dec 15, 08 @ 4:56 pm
The house is back in…
CUrrie presenting HR 1650 right now.
Comment by dupage progressive Monday, Dec 15, 08 @ 4:56 pm
I thought Bill Black was going to retire. But I’m glad he didn’t.
Comment by hisgirlfriday Monday, Dec 15, 08 @ 5:02 pm
Black could totally take Hoffman and Phelps both.
Comment by Pot calling kettle Monday, Dec 15, 08 @ 5:02 pm
Nothing ever gets done in Illinois lately because of all this bickering…I think we all agree that the Gov needs impeached. Why argue about it? Why does Madigan have to have the power play on this?
Comment by BandCamp Monday, Dec 15, 08 @ 5:02 pm
1644 v. 1650. Maybe this is why Rod was so confident in getting off the hook.
Comment by Peter Monday, Dec 15, 08 @ 5:06 pm
Hoffman could be called to testify, so it would seem unlikely he would be a good choice for the committee.
Comment by Madison County Watcher Monday, Dec 15, 08 @ 5:06 pm
This is good stuff. It really should be pay-per-view; the state needs the $$$.
I hope they put this out on DVD. I’m soooo proud.
Comment by Pot calling kettle Monday, Dec 15, 08 @ 5:08 pm
Oh God. Ron Stephens and his whining about Republicans having done the right thing in telling George Ryan not to run again and Democrats failing to do the same thing by not stopping Blago in 2006 is just too much. If the GOP thought George Ryan could have won in 2002 they would have run him again. Oh and now Lou Lang is bitching about Cross and the capital bill. Pox on both your houses for this crap.
You are BOTH worthless and embarrassing. No wonder Blago had no respect for the Legislature. You guys are acting like a JOKE!
Comment by hisgirlfriday Monday, Dec 15, 08 @ 5:08 pm
How about Alan Dixon to fill out the term?
Comment by Reason A. Goodwin Monday, Dec 15, 08 @ 5:10 pm
I hear that the House has canceled its session for tomorrow. I have to assume that this means that no legislation or State Constitutional Amendments on the appointment of a new US Senator are timely enough — the best strategy to send the next US Senator from Illinois soonest is to get Blago out of the way and let Quinn do it (perhaps with advice from Madigan as State Party chair).
Comment by Capitol View Monday, Dec 15, 08 @ 5:21 pm
Wasn’t Hoffman present at the meeting at Rezko’s office with Ali Ata? Can one both testify and be a member of the committee?
Comment by The Doc Monday, Dec 15, 08 @ 5:26 pm
Alan Dixon? Why not Carol Mosely Braun? I think she has some time on her hands….
Comment by DuPage Dave Monday, Dec 15, 08 @ 5:28 pm
This debate is proof that partisanship is more important to most members than simple governing. No wonder the Speaker didn’t want to go the impeachment route, he knows the House GOP has no shame about turning this into a circus.
Comment by Madison County Watcher Monday, Dec 15, 08 @ 5:29 pm
What is Adlai E. Stevenson IV up to? Does he still live in Illinois?
Comment by hisgirlfriday Monday, Dec 15, 08 @ 5:35 pm
So that’s it? What a let down.
Comment by Cheswick Monday, Dec 15, 08 @ 5:40 pm
Anyone else noticing a theme of the house folks stepping up to the microphone (in front of what must be LOTS ‘o’ national media on the 4th floor)… filled with folks who have potential higher ambitions.
So far, we’ve seen Mendoza & Miller and a few others who most likely want to move up.
Where is Franks, Fritchey??
So funny.
Comment by dupage progressive Monday, Dec 15, 08 @ 5:42 pm
Speaker talked about members of the comm must have served six terms. HMMMM?
Comment by Obamas' Puppy Monday, Dec 15, 08 @ 5:43 pm
Looks like the governor is making up for lost time. He signed a bunch of bills a little while ago.
Comment by Click the Bic Monday, Dec 15, 08 @ 5:47 pm
@Click the Bic
Where did you find that information?
Comment by Anon Monday, Dec 15, 08 @ 5:50 pm
I heard he signed 10 bills today……..
Comment by ivoted4judy Monday, Dec 15, 08 @ 5:54 pm
Anon
http://www.ilga.gov/reports/default.asp
then go down to “Bills that became public acts”
Comment by Click the Bic Monday, Dec 15, 08 @ 5:54 pm
acevedo sure knows about the legal system.
julie can spend time with AlG.
Comment by Amy Monday, Dec 15, 08 @ 5:56 pm
Another lesson to be learned regarding Illinois politics: When the cameras are rolling, legislators take full advantage of the exposure, regardless of the issue. It’s a bit shameless that members in the House are standing up making partisan speeches (both sides).
Comment by Unspun Monday, Dec 15, 08 @ 5:58 pm
The Belleville News-Democrat has video up from a press conference held by state Rep. Jay Hoffman, one of Blago’s long-time friends (former roommate in Springfield, too). Hoffman claims he’s very surprised to hear how the governor has been acting and he mentions, when pressed, that if he were in the guv’s shoes, he’d resign. Here’s the link:
http://www.bnd.com/ntm/story/580132.html
Comment by Steve Monday, Dec 15, 08 @ 5:59 pm
John Bradley, now Chapin Rose.
The theme continues…
Comment by dupage progressive Monday, Dec 15, 08 @ 6:00 pm
I am sure that Madigan caught a ration of crap from the black caucus today about a special election. they have the most to lose in a special election.
Comment by ivoted4judy Monday, Dec 15, 08 @ 6:00 pm
Amy enough with the personal attacks. Thanks.
Comment by Kevin Fanning Monday, Dec 15, 08 @ 6:02 pm
Which Davis?
Comment by Randolph Monday, Dec 15, 08 @ 6:06 pm
Has to be Monique. Will hasn’t been around 6 terms.
Comment by Click the Bic Monday, Dec 15, 08 @ 6:09 pm
Wait a second. Art Turner is on the impeachment committee, but wasn’t he bandied about as a possible appointment by Blagojevich… at least in the Sneed column the day of the arrest?
Comment by hisgirlfriday Monday, Dec 15, 08 @ 6:12 pm
Did anyone ask Black if he would have shown up if he was told the purpose was voting on impeachment? Because I think he would have.
Comment by Peter Monday, Dec 15, 08 @ 6:18 pm
And I knew it would come to this. Partisan sniping and screaming to grandstand the issues. Quiet down!
Comment by I knew it before term one Monday, Dec 15, 08 @ 6:18 pm
ooh… bold move by House GOP.
THey introduced HB 6733 — a bill for special election for US senator.
If house dems leave, the media will most likely pick up on the bill black hissy-fit.
Here we go…
We’ve seen some of our cast of characters in national media this week.
First the Gov, then Patty, then Lisa & Pat.
Today, we had MJM & house staff on CNN.
Now, I’m guessing we’ll see the Bill Black/ Lou Lang verbal volley.
So surreal.
Comment by dupage progressive Monday, Dec 15, 08 @ 6:19 pm
I have to say Rep Black has a point. That is what they brought them down for.
Comment by OneMan Monday, Dec 15, 08 @ 6:19 pm
This the most drama I have ever seen in a proceeding of the IL House of Reps.
Comment by Levois Monday, Dec 15, 08 @ 6:27 pm
By the time Fritchey, Franks, Lang, and Hamos are done giving their opening remarks it will be January 10th..Isn’t it a conflict that Hamos’ husband is the counsel???
Comment by ivoted4judy Monday, Dec 15, 08 @ 6:29 pm
Gotta hand it to house GOP.
The whole scene on the house floor today seems a bit like old politics vs. new — watching folks who understand how to make the best out of this unfortunate situation. I’m a proud dem, but I must give it to them for getting their message out today.
That said, MJM won the votes for his impeachment resolution and is most likely thinking about 10 steps ahead (again).
Comment by dupage progressive Monday, Dec 15, 08 @ 6:30 pm
Did the Senate aleady go in and adjourn or are they in caucus?
Comment by watching the House Monday, Dec 15, 08 @ 6:31 pm
Dupage:
Your points are well-taken. I hope that our legislators that are soooo boldy speaking to the cameras recognize that their relationship with the national media is mutually exploitative.
Comment by Unspun Monday, Dec 15, 08 @ 6:31 pm
@Click the Bic
Thanks for the link..
(signing with actual moniker)
Comment by Anonymous Coward Monday, Dec 15, 08 @ 6:35 pm
every time I click on “bills that became public act” nothing comes up??
Does anyone have a list they can post of what bills he signed? Thanks… I must be computer stupid!!!
Comment by ivoted4judy Monday, Dec 15, 08 @ 6:43 pm
…the Senate moved an elections bill into a position today that will allow it to be amended (presumably with language calling for a special election) and voted on tomorrow.
Comment by Meanwhile, back at the motel... Monday, Dec 15, 08 @ 6:47 pm
Why doesn’t the press ask Representative Hoffman whether his legal counsel has spoken with anyone from the federal government? He continues to say “he/I” haven’t spoken to anyone but he hasn’t said whether he has hired legal counsel or whether they have had contact with the fibbies. That would certainly clear things up.
Comment by Ms Port Belly Mushroom Monday, Dec 15, 08 @ 6:47 pm
Meanwhile - thanks for the info
Comment by watching the House Monday, Dec 15, 08 @ 6:52 pm
So the House isn’t going to move a special election bill at all? Maybe there are good reasons for not moving it — reasons having to do with cost and other factors besides the obvious partisan concerns — but wasn’t that the alleged reason for the session to be called in the first place? It sure comes off looking like a bait and switch on Madigan’s part; no wonder Black was more teed off than usual.
Comment by Bookworm Monday, Dec 15, 08 @ 6:53 pm
another great job Rich
Comment by ivoted4judy Monday, Dec 15, 08 @ 6:53 pm
I listened to the House proceedings - It was the most disappointing underwhelming display of partisan crap I’ve seen. A Pox on the House - they were rank amatures today. There really are absolutely NO statesmen left. Disgusting!
Comment by A Citizen Monday, Dec 15, 08 @ 7:43 pm
The point of the special election bill was to make sure that Blago could not appoint anyone. If he resigns or is impeached or declared unfit, then the election is unnecessary.
BTW- that Rep. Black is a character, huh?!?
Comment by DuPage Dave Monday, Dec 15, 08 @ 7:48 pm
If he resigns or is impeached or declared unfit, then the election is unnecessary.
I am off to the snail races. Let me know if anything happens in the meantime, OK?
Comment by Six Degrees of Separation Monday, Dec 15, 08 @ 7:50 pm
If the House has gone home til Jan. 12, that means the special election bill can’t pass anyway before the current GA adjourns sine die and the Senate is just wasting their time coming down to vote on it, right?
Comment by Bookworm Monday, Dec 15, 08 @ 8:26 pm
Umm DuPage Dave,
He could appoint tomorrow.
Comment by OneMan Monday, Dec 15, 08 @ 8:31 pm
ivoted4judy ===every time I click on “bills that became public act” nothing comes up??====
You need to hold down your ctrl key as your computer thinks its a pop-up.
Bills That Became Public Acts on 12/15/2008
SB0450 b Antonio Munoz
(Charles E. Jefferson)
LOCAL GOVERNMENT-TECH 12/15/2008 Senate Public Act . . . . . . . . . 95-1009
SB0620 h William R. Haine
(Thomas Holbrook)
UTILITIES-FIRE PROTECTION CHG 12/15/2008 Senate Public Act . . . . . . . . . 95-1010
SB1890 b William R. Haine
(Marlow H. Colvin)
PUB CONST BOND-DEFAULT 12/15/2008 Senate Public Act . . . . . . . . . 95-1011
SB1981 b Rickey R. Hendon
(Frank J. Mautino)
INC TAX- COLLEGE SAVINGS PLAN 12/15/2008 Senate Public Act . . . . . . . . . 95-1006
SB2031 h William R. Haine
(Thomas Holbrook)
EMERG TEL SYS BOARD-CNTY BOARD 12/15/2008 Senate Public Act . . . . . . . . . 95-1012
SB2492 h Kimberly A. Lightford
(Cynthia Soto)
MEDICAID-HOSPITAL-PSYCH SRVCS 12/15/2008 Senate Public Act . . . . . . . . . 95-1013
SB2536 b William R. Haine
(James D. Brosnahan)
RTA-PUBLIC HEARING 12/15/2008 Senate Public Act . . . . . . . . . 95-1014
SB2688 b Dan Kotowski
(Edward J. Acevedo)
EDUCATION-TECH 12/15/2008 Senate Public Act . . . . . . . . . 95-1015
SB2743 b Michael Noland
(Charles E. Jefferson)
MUNI TIF-FIRE PROTECTION 12/15/2008 Senate Public Act . . . . . . . . . 95-1016
Comment by Click the Bic Monday, Dec 15, 08 @ 8:33 pm
I wonder what bills are PA 1007 and 1008?? Thanks for the tip though..
Comment by ivoted4judy Monday, Dec 15, 08 @ 8:45 pm
‘Shroom, saying one, or one’s attorney, has “talked” to the G means zip, squat, nada, about that individual’s status with the Feds. Neither does the failure to “have a conversation” as the left wing likes to say have a particular connotation.
For example, one of the people most recently indicted pre-Blago had via his lawyer substantial discussions with the Feds before his bell was rung. On the other hand, Rezko never approached them or hired counsel to do so.
Basically, it’s a bit like buying the farm. When your number comes up, it’s up. To your question, were AA that specific party, I would not be buying any nonrefundable plane tickets for overseas travel.
Comment by Arthur Andersen Monday, Dec 15, 08 @ 9:13 pm
Get rid of Hoffman and all the political Hoffman hacks at IDOT.
Comment by Old Timer Monday, Dec 15, 08 @ 9:25 pm
Just saw this in action today with Madigan… since when has the Blue Room started having a streaming video service? Is this run by the press office?
Comment by When did this happen? Monday, Dec 15, 08 @ 9:39 pm
The Democrats picked for this committee need to be squeaky clean, so that Blago and his attorney have no grounds in the court of public opinion to cry foul. Unfortuately, the list of committee Democrats fails on at least two counts.
First, despite being an outstanding legislator, you can’t have Julie Hamos serving on this committee if you also have her husband (former legislator and State Appellate Court Judge Alan Greiman) serving as chief counsel of the committee! While both Hamos and Greiman are above reproach, I am certain that Blago’s attorney and his PR people will note the connection any time they are within five feet of a media person.
Second, Rep. Acevedo??? Did Speaker Madigan feel a need to have representation on this panel of legislators whose reputation is nearly as sordid as that of Gov. Sleazy? The national press will have a field day when they look into his background!
Comment by Randall Sherman Monday, Dec 15, 08 @ 9:51 pm
Just got word that Rep. Mike Bost and Bill Black are on the Impeachment Committee, dont know who the other 7 GOP members are, but those two are confirmed.
Interesting thing about having an unbalanced Committee, 12 dems to 9 reps is that subpoena power will stay firmly in Madigans control.
This will allow him to fry the governor, without getting any hot grease on himself. Gotta give Madigan credit, as always, he knows how to play the cards to his favor.
Comment by Speaking At Will Monday, Dec 15, 08 @ 9:54 pm
This state needs some clean and fresh voices running for that Senate seat. Maybe someone who hasn’t run for office yet. In politics for the right reasons — to serve. Someone from downstate — enough of the Chicago program, please. A few names seem interesting -
Adlai Stevenson, although he has been elected and is about 70. Porter McNeil. Maybe the Kennedy in the North Shore. We need someone who isn’t already elected. Dems need a fresh change to survive this one.
Comment by hmmmm Monday, Dec 15, 08 @ 10:21 pm
According to Illinois Review, the other Republicans are Chapin Rose, Jim Sacia, Jim Durkin, Roger Eddy, Susie Bassi, Jil Tracy and Patti Bellock.
Comment by Bookworm Monday, Dec 15, 08 @ 10:23 pm
===First, despite being an outstanding legislator, you can’t have Julie Hamos serving on this committee if you also have her husband (former legislator and State Appellate Court Judge Alan Greiman) serving as chief counsel of the committee! While both Hamos and Greiman are above reproach, I am certain that Blago’s attorney and his PR people will note the connection any time they are within five feet of a media person.===
Greiman wasn’t appointed as the Counsel to the Committee, he was appointed Special Counsel to the Speaker. Dave Ellis was appointed Counsel to the Committee.
Comment by Info for Randall Sherman Monday, Dec 15, 08 @ 10:24 pm
What is the conflict of having Hamos on the committee and Greiman as counsel to the Speaker? (I mean besides the average soul-draining, mind-numbing, run-of-the-mill marital conflicts that we all cherish).
Comment by wordslinger Monday, Dec 15, 08 @ 10:25 pm
113 - 0! Even Hoffman voted yes? Hot Rod must have been calling for a yes vote so he could be vindicated in the House, after all this is not the slam dunk that is being portrayed in the media.
Do not get between the Madigan and his prey….the gov is toast!
Comment by thurber Monday, Dec 15, 08 @ 10:41 pm
“The governor’s situation is a stressful one for his staff. Guerrero said employees in Blagojevich’s office are stressed and feel a sense of uneasiness about their futures.”
What about the futures of the state employees who were wrongfully terminated at the hands of Blagojevich?
Comment by No Pity Monday, Dec 15, 08 @ 10:47 pm
“Employees in Blagojevich’s office are stressed and feel a sense of uneasiness about their futures.”
What goes around, comes around!
Guess they should update their resumes’
(that is if they ever had a resume’) and
learn how to say “Yes Governor Quinn”.
Comment by Macbeth Monday, Dec 15, 08 @ 11:02 pm
well we now know that Jesse Jr is the RAT! Just like a child that does not get his way i.e his wife the director of lottery job. He then informed for the government in this crimnal complaint against the Governor. While i do not like the Governor there is nothing lower they a dirty rat like Jesse Jr.
Comment by moral Monday, Dec 15, 08 @ 11:20 pm
I stand corrected on Burris. To be honest, I only threw his name out there because he was so out of place with his press conference the other day.
I bet everyone in elected office has at least 3 or 4 degrees of separation to Blago, so the tinfoil hatters and GOP admakers will have a field day no matter what.
Say, haven’t quite a few Republicans given Blago a handshake over the years?
What were they thinking?
…Bill for Senate. “The only choice left.”
Comment by Rob_N Monday, Dec 15, 08 @ 11:21 pm
The full list from Kurt Erikson:
DEMOCRATS
Barbara Flynn Currie, Chicago, chairperson
Art Turner, Chicago
Monique Davis, Chicago
Mary Flowers, Chicago
Jack Franks, McHenry
Frank Mautino, Spring Valley
Gary Hannig, Litchfield
Lou Lang, Skokie
Constance Howard, Chicago
John Fritchey, Chicago
Edward Acevedo, Chicago
Julie Hamos, Evanston
REPUBLICANS
Jim Durkin, Western Springs, Minority spokesperson
Suzie Bassi, Palatine
Patti Bellock, Westmont
Bill Black, Danville
Mike Bost, Murphysboro
Roger Eddy, Hutsonville
Chapin Rose, Mahomet
Jim Sacia, Pecatonica
Jil Tracy, Mount Sterling
Comment by Pot calling kettle Monday, Dec 15, 08 @ 11:35 pm
I guess Hoffman didn’t make the cut.
Maybe they’ll call him in to testify.
Comment by Pot calling kettle Monday, Dec 15, 08 @ 11:37 pm
‘Vote Quimby’ you are so right. Representative Jay Hoffman is the Gov’s personal defender and ex roommate. Remember Jay was at the table when money was exchanged during a previous pay-to-play scandal with Rezko and Ali Ata a couple of years ago. Representative Jay Hoffman has appointed a plethora of IDOT political hacks to Collinsville IDOT. A complete job audit needs to be done to see who is actually qualified for the appointments that have taken since the Governor has been in office. How many people paid to get their positions and how many were actually qualified?
Comment by this voter will remember Tuesday, Dec 16, 08 @ 2:22 am
I assume these bills were signed on the advice of Genson to trump AG Madigan’s filing. It shows he can govern and is governing….no resignation in sight, so dig the trenches its going to be a cold winter in Springpatch!
Comment by Vote Quimby! Tuesday, Dec 16, 08 @ 7:02 am
Wow…one Dem from south of I-80.
Looks like the machine is taking this one personally.
Comment by Johnny USA Tuesday, Dec 16, 08 @ 7:40 am
You know, the last time Blagojevich lost a vote 113-0 in the House, he claimed it was a victory. So, congratulations Governor!!
Comment by the Other Anonymous Tuesday, Dec 16, 08 @ 8:17 am
Johnny-
Technically, Frank Mautino is from south of I-80, although it is close.
Comment by Six Degrees of Separation Tuesday, Dec 16, 08 @ 8:21 am
This vote garnered the same amount of support as voting donw the GRT.
Comment by Ghost Tuesday, Dec 16, 08 @ 8:35 am
some of the committee members have not served 6 terms — Jack Franks, Jil Tracy, Chapin Rose
Comment by dupage progressive Tuesday, Dec 16, 08 @ 8:39 am
moral wrote:
>there is nothing lower they a dirty rat
We know it’s Illinois politics when people who think they’re moral start blithering about rats.
No, theirs nothing lower than thieves and murderers. Rats don’t really bother me. We’d never find out any of this stuff out without rats. When I see someone talking about rats, I assume they’re involved in something illegal.
Comment by earnest Tuesday, Dec 16, 08 @ 8:50 am
In fact, I’d say to anyone in state government who knows anything — start snitching! It’s the only way to clean this crap up.
Comment by earnest Tuesday, Dec 16, 08 @ 8:51 am