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* What do you think the governor will say and do tomorrow during his 90 minute “closing argument” at the Senate impeachment tribunal? Explain fully.
Try to hold down the snark, please.
*** UPDATE *** From Lee News…
Blagojevich spokesman Lucio Guerrero said the governor has no plans of resigning tomorrow
Emphasis added.
posted by Rich Miller
Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 3:43 pm
Sorry, comments are closed at this time.
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He’s going to resign!
Comment by Anon Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 3:44 pm
“And, in closing, the devil made me do it”
Comment by Beyond Embarrassed Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 3:46 pm
Beg for forgiveness? I really don’t know what to think at this point…this whole situation is just crazy.
Comment by Dirtybird Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 3:46 pm
Will he actually show up?
Comment by Tony Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 3:47 pm
The Governor will proclaim his innocence, repeat all the clap trap he has been spewing this week and then resign.
Comment by Jim Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 3:48 pm
$10 says he cancels it. Has anyone confirmed it yet?
Comment by John Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 3:48 pm
He will say that because certain witnesses couldn’t be called to testify, the criminal complaint should not be considered in the vote.
He will say the tapes should not be considered because they were taken out of context.
He will heavily emphasize that some of the things for which he’s being impeached were done before he was re-elected. He will ask that those things not be considered in the vote.
Personally, I disagree with all this.
Comment by Cheswick Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 3:49 pm
His speech will be completely geared toward the t.v. audience, who will act as his jury in the upcoming federal criminal trial.
Expect him to offer the same talking points that he did in his media appearances on the West Coast.
I like David Ellis, but I would STRONGLY urge Speaker Madigan to give the rebuttal, if not the closing arguments.
Madigan is one of the best Constitutional minds in the state and the longest-serving member of the General Assembly. He understands, and can articulate better than anyone, the threat that the Gov poses to the public interest.
Comment by Yellow Dog Democrat Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 3:50 pm
Rich-
Your link to this thread on the other page is dead. Can you correct it, less the Gov be blamed for yet another transgression?
Comment by How Ironic Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 3:50 pm
My best guess.
1. He will be late ~ 30 minutes.
2. He will talk for at least 60 minutes. He will talk about how he was fighting for the citizens.
3. He will rail about the “unfairness” of the trial.
4. He will resign rather than be the 1st Illinois Gov to be removed.
Comment by How Ironic Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 3:52 pm
The same stuff, slightly dressed up, he has been saying for the last several days on all the TV shows. Using the experience of the interviews, he will have a speech that will sound good and hit all of his talking points leaving out the details that go against him. Heavy on “the people”, healthcare, sanctity, his hard work, context, talking vs doing, my rough upbringing, what “they” can do to you, and I only did what needed to be done. Small details like the economy going down the tubes, cooperation, state going broke, and not paying bills will simply be forgotten.
Comment by zatoichi Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 3:53 pm
I think he starts trying to bring people down with him.
Comment by John Bambenek Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 3:54 pm
Read Paradise Lost
Comment by TominChicago Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 3:54 pm
I agree with Jim. He will give his familiar speech, say he made some mistakes in judgement but nothing criminal. Then he says he is resigning.
He will then reveal that he has accepted a job with Capitol Fax as the new color commentator on this blog. Also, we will find out that right before his speech he appointed Patti as commissioner to Water Rec. (Only one of the above is snark).
Comment by Been There Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 3:55 pm
He’s out of bullets. He used them all in New York. Knowing his act he’ll start naming names. Pointing fingers. A as mentioned here, he’ll start to toss people under the bus.
Sidebar: How Ms. Nix has avoided to being drug around in this mud pit so far is simply amazing.
Comment by The 'Broken Heart' of Rogers Park Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 3:55 pm
To paraphrase Frost/Nixon:
I’m telling you when the Governor does it it’s not illegal!
Comment by Ill.Pride Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 3:56 pm
Well, firstly, he’ll probably be ten to fifteen minutes late…
Comment by Anon from BB Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 3:57 pm
As offered to all other visitors to the Senate, he will be “welcomed to Springfield.” And under the breath of many Senators, they will say, “…and don’t let the door hit you on the way out.” In between, the Governor will quote Frank Sinatra’s lyrics, “I did it my way.”
Comment by Blogger2 Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 3:58 pm
He’s gonna throw everyone under the bus. He will need a very large bus…
Comment by Stu Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 3:58 pm
He refines his New York B S a little. Talks about throwing out a twice elected Governor, his battle for the little guy against the big bad legislator. Had I been able to call witnesses B S, tapes are out of context, blah blah blah. Maybe a little threat at some in the room, in the end, who the “F” knows what this psychopath will do. In Boston, the Red Sox fans had a saying: “it is just Manny being Manny”, (Manny Ramirez): This is just Rod being Rod, nothing more!!
Comment by ivoted4judy Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 4:00 pm
===I think he starts trying to bring people down with him.
And I find myself in agreement with John Bambenek. The apocalypse is near.
Comment by ArchPundit Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 4:00 pm
would like to see him appear in full Elvis attire; Vegas Elvis, of course; jumpsuit, cape, shades; explain that he was “jus’ takin’ care o’ business, man. the people’s business.” Has a possible future as hair-care spokesman for BJ & Company Spa Treatment Center, possibly Mario Tricoci if he plays his cards right.
Comment by anon24 Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 4:02 pm
@ Stu.
He can throw who ever he wants under the bus. Unfortunatly for Rod, all the good seats are all ready full with the likes of Rezko, Ata, Harris, and others as yet un-identified that are ratting him out.
He probably knows where bodies are buried, but it’s not gonna save him.
Comment by How Ironic Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 4:02 pm
Mostly talk about Gandhi and tell stories about cowboys and magical creatures like fairies and gnomes. Then finish with a song and dance number form Mamma Mia
Comment by tom Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 4:02 pm
I wish I could say something funny, but I’m humorless today. Here is what Blago is going to say:
* I fought for health care for kids and families
* I tried to get cheaper drugs when the lobbyists, corporate interests and the Bush administration wanted to keep drug prices up
* I fought you on tax increases, but now that you’re getting rid of me you’re going to raise the income tax “before Memorial Day”
* I have done nothing wrong
* The people of Illinois will learn the truth
Comment by carbon deforestation Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 4:02 pm
I think he wants to take one last flight on the State plane before the legislature impeaches him.
Comment by spfldadm Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 4:03 pm
He will never resign. It will be the same old story about how it was an unfair trial and then they will vote. That is the end of it. He enjoys being the “victim”
Comment by TT Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 4:03 pm
He will say he has done everything for the people, healthcare, mammograms, Rx coverage. He will magnify himself and talk smack about the legislature. He will say the legislature has blocked all the good he wanted to do for the little guy. He might say that what he did is no different from the way things are done all the time in Springfield and Washington DC. He might name names. He will rail, calling the impeachment process unfair. He will make himself out to be the martyr. Good Governor - bad legislature!
Then at the last minute he will resign, saying that what this is doing to his family and his good name just isn’t worth it.
When this guy sees the writing on the wall, he throws a monkey wrench in every time. And the media will be all over it. Geraldo should be there in person, cheering him on.
Comment by Say WHAT? Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 4:03 pm
I am torn between three options…
A) He goes nuclear and tosses everyone and anyone under the bus, the stuff they threatened with last summer, then resigns.
B) He does a repeat of what he did on every show yesterday.
C) He goes seriously Mr. Smith and talks longer than 90 minutes, brings in telegrams and letters (think about those boxes today)
Comment by OneMan Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 4:03 pm
How can he give a closing argument when he never presented a case?
Comment by chicountryguy Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 4:04 pm
“What is going on here is purely political, with no attempt to find fact, but because we do not see eye to eye, and because we have not been fans of each other, you will make a choice to remove or ont remove a governor.
Who among you would want to face the burden of governing, knowing, that if you disagree with the legislature, with the Speaker, with the caucuses, you face removal. This is the crux of the sham that is the removal of me. I have not been found guilty in a court of law. I have not even been indicted for crimes listed in your articles of impeachment. I have heard ‘the final straw’. The final straw of what, how you feel about me?
The office of the governor should not be made impotent to making difficult decisions becuase a wild west legislature will force removal. Who among you would want to bear that burden? I have made mistakes, missteps, however you want to catagorize my 2 duly-elected terms as Illinois’ governor.
Although they have been made, first and foremost, i have kept the citizens of Illinois in my mind and my heart …”
That is what I expect to hear…
Comment by Oswego Willy Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 4:04 pm
Think that Prosecutor Ellis may have the hardest job during the Gov’s closing. He’ll have to decide if he should let the Gov ramble - out of respect for the office-holder, or interrupting alot to object repeatedly to the Gov arguing facts that were not presented in evidence.
Comment by F.Lee Baileyhoo Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 4:04 pm
What is the over/under on him quoting a poem???
Comment by TT Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 4:04 pm
He will not resign. He will rewind and play his past weeks lies/whinings…quote Scripture “Who among you will throw the first stone” (shoe?)…”I’ve made some mis-judgements but nothing criminal, and my first priority has always been the people - who have elected me twice”…Blah, Blah, Blah. I hope prosecutor has his finest day ever, and the vote will be 48-10, with one “present”.
Comment by You Go Boy Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 4:05 pm
He will make himself out to be a martyr playing to the TV audience and say he is being impeached because he stuck up for the little guy against the evil legislature.
I would personally prefer that he go out like Roman Maroni in the 80’s film Johnny Dangerously and accuse them of wiolating his fargin rights.
Comment by Ron Burgundy Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 4:05 pm
Start singing “Jail House Rock”.
Comment by ROD COST ME Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 4:05 pm
He will air everyone’s dirty laundry to take the focus off of his situation. “You may think I am bad, but not as bad as Rep./Senator XYZ who did this…” Will he be allowed to bring human shields/props/supporters up there with him (if there are any left)?
Comment by Splitendz Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 4:05 pm
Whine about his lack of due process (apparently he missed that part of the impeachment hearing) Resign…. then say “Holy cow now I have to go face my pa inlaw and ask him for a job to help me through hard times THANKS for the memories you @#$%^&* “
Comment by THE CARDINAL Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 4:06 pm
“. . . . . .I’ll be back. And you’ll pay.”
Comment by jerry 101 Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 4:06 pm
I would say that he’ll probably just continue to recite the same talking points that he’s been spouting to anyone who’ll give him air time the past week – but that’s too predictable….too rational of an expectation. Honestly, who among us (ie, the sane) could even begin to imagine what kind of conspiracy theories, self-proclamations of martyrdom and random statements without even a passing relation to reality that this man might come up with next. Is there really a non-snarky way to answer this?
Comment by grand old partisan Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 4:06 pm
I could tell you what I think he will say, but it would sound like snark, even though I would be totally serious.
Comment by glued Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 4:06 pm
all i have to say is that all the copies of “Mr Smith goes to Washington” are going to be out at Blago’s nearest video rental stores…
Comment by Anonymous Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 4:06 pm
well if he can quit combing his hair long enough to talk maybe he will just break down and apologize before the Senate kicks him outta office !!
Comment by alrtee Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 4:06 pm
Al Pacino is one of my favorite actors, especially in Scarface when he is tracked down in his own home, ooh also in the Godfather! I KNOW IT WAS YOU FREDO, ha ha, my brother Rob is like Fredo!!!
ATTICA! ATTICA! ATTICA!
Comment by Jake L. Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 4:06 pm
What’d be interesting is if he brought something — documents, tapes, whatever — that no one has yet mentioned.
I mean, why not bring something so outrageous that it makes everyone say, “Whoah. What?”
Comment by Macbeth Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 4:07 pm
Starts out like a house of fire railing against the unfairness of the process, throws a few people under the bus including the Speaker and Lt, mellows toward the end and says something like he doesn’t want this great state legislature to fall into such disrepute by removing such a sanctified leader so he resigns.
Then he starts running across the country ala Forest Gump.
Comment by Phineas J. Whoopee Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 4:08 pm
I think he will belittle the system, berate the House for an inadequate and unfair hearing to develop the charges, and then for the good of the people offer his resignation.
Comment by downstate hack Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 4:08 pm
i expect him to say more of the same: this isn’t fair, he couldn’t call witnesses, i was elected twice by the voters of illinois and you can’t circumvent their decision. i’d be shocked if he resigned…
Comment by bored now Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 4:09 pm
“The Fix is in”
I have done nothing bleeping wrong.
I have mostly done everything bleeping right.
I have virtually done bleeping everything right.
Anyone in America (and all over the world) who is watching needs to know that if Springfield can do this to a bleeping Governor they can do it to bleeping you.
You won’t let me prove or disprove what I’ve said on those bleeping tapes.
If you could hear all of the bleeping tapes, you would understand that I’ve done mostly nothing bleeping wrong.
You take everything out of context.
I will not quit.
bleeping Oprah called me this morning.
Comment by Spanky63 Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 4:09 pm
He knows his political life in Illinois has expired, he will probably speak to a national audience. I doubt that he will directly address the articles of impeachment. This ordeal is now a Frank Capra movie in his mind.
Comment by Go Illini Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 4:10 pm
Oh, I forgot. Behind him will be a bunch of seniors in wheelchairs, children who are looking disappointed — and then, he’ll bring in cute puppies to make everyone smile.
Comment by The 'Broken Heart' of Rogers Park Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 4:11 pm
Rod will come accompanied by a dozen “witnesses” in wheelchairs, on respirators, or otherwise visibly ill. When the Senate denies him the ability to call them, he will rail against the legitimacy of the proceedings, compare himself to Christ on the cross, and then walk out without specifically addressing the allegations against him.
(Hey, it’s Rod Blagojevich. I have no confidence in being able to predict any nutball thing he’ll do. The above scenario at least has some precedent in his past behavior.)
Comment by Boone Logan Square Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 4:11 pm
Blago will repeat all the talking points he had used on his media trip in NYC. This is all Mike Madigan’s fault dont’t ya know?
He will make himself out to be a martyr for the people of Illinois being scourged and forced to wear a crown of thorns by the General Assembly in the role of Pontius Pilate and the Sanhedrin. His crucifixion is to be impeached and removed from office.
Blago has mentioned Gandhi, Martin Luther King Jr.,and others so it would not surprise me that he does the ultimate comparison–Jesus Christ.
Comment by Nearly Normal Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 4:12 pm
Just Curious - will the Senate members have the opportunity to ask Blago questions after he makes a closing statement since that is the only “evidence” he is entering into the record? How fair is it that he can add anything with it being able to be questioned?
Comment by curious george Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 4:12 pm
BLS: Actually, he is extremely predictable.
Comment by Say WHAT? Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 4:13 pm
If the Senate votes shortly after the Governor speaks, he may be locked out of his airplane and have to thumb a ride back to Chicago.
Comment by Blogger2 Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 4:13 pm
His argument is limited to the evidence presented in the case. So, if he can’t find it in the transcripts from the House or what has occurred in the Senate, he should be cut off. Otherwise, he would throw everyone under the bus that he helped fundraise in exchange for a vote on a bill.
Comment by anon Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 4:13 pm
How much you want to bet that the Gov’s appearance will actually make his conviction MORE certain and speedy, and perhaps turn one or two possible “no” votes back to “yes,” simply because no one can now accuse the Senate of having denied him due process? They’re letting him walk in at the last minute, more than A WEEK after the final deadline for filing motions — something I don’t think a judge in ANY criminal court would tolerate.
Comment by Secret Square Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 4:14 pm
The national press probably will JIP his statement. If I were a Senator who spent any amount of time near him, I’d be scared to death about what he might unload on national television.
Comment by Hanging Chad Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 4:14 pm
it is just too scary to think about. I will listen, but just like listening to some of his talk show interviews, I will become nauseated and have to excuse myself. it will be awful but perhaps, since he has a fool for a client, he will say many things that will make the feds job much easier when they get him in federal court.
Comment by tiff Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 4:14 pm
I am wondering if he will remind the good people of llinois that his campaign co chairs were the speaker and the mayor and that if you offend them, You will be the next target. Oh wait they can see the bloody trail already lain before this bump in the road.
Comment by THE CARDINAL Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 4:16 pm
He will wave around an envelope that he claims has the names of all the legislators who were in on it all with him.
Comment by McCarthy Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 4:16 pm
He’ll follow his NY script with further embellishment.
Office pools on movie/poem/character comparisons could prove entertaining.
Question: if he flies in on the state plane and is impeached, how will he get home, no longer being a state official?
Comment by fisher Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 4:18 pm
He will vent and accuse for however long his prepared address takes.
That amount of time will delay his removal from office. Otherwise, he may convince any few “no” votes to vote “yes”.
Hours later, a new Governor makes his first public appearance.
Then time to move on.
Comment by Skeptic Cal Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 4:19 pm
what i really think he’s going to say is “Im the best thing thats happened to you (state of Illinois)… Im done…. now wheres my pension check.” of course well get our poetry/history lessons along the way but this would be the just of it
Comment by anon Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 4:19 pm
Wonder if he will be on time for the fun. The judge might hold him in contempt if he shows up late like he does for every other official thing and (wedding funerals meetings)
Comment by THE CARDINAL Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 4:21 pm
Point over to a corner and say “Oh, look, a puppy”.
Comment by Bluefish Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 4:22 pm
I’ve heard the vote might come as early as tomorrow?
What’s the line on the rollcall? I’m betting atleast 50 AYE votes for impeachment.
I can see at most 5-6 Senators voting against impeachment. Which reminds me: I’m surprised we haven’t heard anything one way or the other from Emil Jones III….
Comment by Yellow Dog Democrat Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 4:22 pm
Here is the opposite of what I think he’ll do (he always does the opposite of what I think) - He will actually act like the lawyer he is supposed to be. He will address everything that has been brought into evidence and attempt to explain each and refute them. If he does this and does it well it could be his best chance to survive.
Comment by casual observer Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 4:25 pm
Who can he possibly throw under the bus that trumps what is happening to him? Maybe DeLeo or Hoffman. Maybe try with Cullerton with John Kass’ combine theory. But unless he can take Daley, Madigans, Obama or Gianoulious down with him the other names won’t even make it above the fold and maybe not even front page. And unless he has tapes or other proof nobody will believe him.
Comment by Been There Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 4:26 pm
Surely his lawyer has told him publicity stunts won’t do him any good at this point?
I see him systematically going down the items on the article of impeachment and one by one, refuting them.
Comment by Cheswick Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 4:26 pm
I agree with previous posts which suggest he will do something to emulate the movies he always mentions. The filibuster from Mr. Smith Goes to Washington, would be theatrical and garner additional national headlines. On a darker note, I would also strongly suggest that he be security searched prior to entering the chamber.
Comment by One of the 35 Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 4:29 pm
McCarthy et al ~
The idea that Blago might try to scare some folks into voting against impeachment is an interesting one.
Cornered animals are, after all, dangerously unpredictable.
However, I don’t think threatening lawmakers gets him any votes:
- A vote against impeachment attracts media attention and speculation
- A vote against impeachment could appear as an admission of guilt
- Nothing the gov could say could be nearly as damaging to your political career as voting against impeachment would be
- Charges from an impeached Gov don’t carry much weight
- This guy threw his own father-in-law under the bus…no one can trust a truce with him
Now if Rod REALLY wants to pressure Senators into voting against impeachment, he should threaten to campaign on their behalf, praise them, or release video of them doing the polka together.
Comment by Yellow Dog Democrat Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 4:29 pm
I agree with the posts that Blago will start bringing folks down with him … and don’t you know that there will be many in the room that have been a willing partner to many of his shenanigans during the past six years. Giving 90-minutes to this guy with a national television audience looking on is mind-boggling and a tad bit scary. Really, there is absolutely no telling what he will say. I’d bet there’s some poetry involved though.
Comment by Jim Muir Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 4:29 pm
He’ll be late
He’ll repeat what he’s been saying all this week
He’ll take people down with him
and, he won’t give up the mic when his 90 minutes are up
Comment by Hair today, gone tomorrow Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 4:30 pm
He will recite the starting lineups of every Cubs team since 1908, then move on to the list of every Jimmy Stewart movie he has ever seen.
Comment by S. Illinois Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 4:31 pm
I believe he will make a reasonable argument that synthesizes his recent talking points into one 30 minute speech that only rambles once or twice into comparisons of grandeur. The argument will be quite compelling for those that see snippets of it and don’t know the facts.
He will resign at the end.
The Senate will hold the vote anyway, the argument being they still want to bar him from public office.
The fact that he is already gone will give a number of senators cover to vote no or present, but ultimately he’ll be convicted and barred with 43-47 Yes votes.
All in all the gov comes out of it doing much better than I would have predicted on Dec 9th. But in the end, none of this matters. He’ll get convicted on 5 counts, and sentenced to 9 years in prison. He will serve 5.
Comment by Barnum and Blago Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 4:34 pm
he’s a double agent whose gone rogue (for obvious reasons) in efforts to root out corruption in all levels of business and government, also, he now knows of a conspiracy to over through the government of the state of illinois
Comment by id Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 4:36 pm
“Everyone of you State Senators, all of you deep in hypocrisy, have tried to leverage campaign dollars in exchange for legislative action to help someone. The only difference is that I couldn’t do those things in the sanctity of my home because the U.S. Attorneys were keeping tabs on me. Search your conscience. If you impeach me, you are voting to impeach yourself because you have all done the same type of things.
“As I told Larry King, I know the fix is in down here. It always has been, since I tried to bring free bus rides to seniors, since I tried to bring pharmaceutical drugs to everyone …
Comment by There you go again Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 4:37 pm
He will simply use this opportunity to iterate his talking points and establish his defense for the indictments to follow. Wouldn’t surprise me to see him bus in some folks he says he helped.
Comment by Justice Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 4:40 pm
NO! NO! NO! NO!
He had his chance to resign! He better not resign tomorrow!
Comment by Levois Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 4:40 pm
===refuting them. ===
Refute means to disprove. He can rebut, but I doubt he can disprove anything in that impeachment report.
Comment by Rich Miller Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 4:40 pm
I predict he will do a version of “It’s just a flesh wound” and taunt the Senate with various other Pythonisms:
Go and boil your bottoms, you sons of silly persons!
You don’t frighten us with your silly knees-bent running around advancing behavior!
There are more, but my posts get deleted enough already.
I shall endeavor to do better.
Comment by IrishPirate Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 4:44 pm
I missed the no snark comment……..sorry.
Comment by IrishPirate Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 4:44 pm
He just spent 2 days on a media blitz telling every interviewer that he refuses to participate in this “unconstitutional” process…He lied to them and everyone listening. Do you think they realize that, or care?
Comment by casual observer Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 4:45 pm
co: No, their ratings went up with this sideshow. They care about ratings, not the truth.
Comment by Say WHAT? Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 4:47 pm
So what happens if he is late? Does he forfeit his right to deliver his closing argument?
Will the Senate recess till he shows up, or perhaps recess just for the 90 allotted minutes then move on?
Comment by This Guy Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 4:47 pm
This is real-life Capra.
I’m sure it will be quite amazing.
Comment by Macbeth Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 4:52 pm
To enhance advanced sales of his personal memoire, “The Fix Was In,” perhaps Mr. Blagojevich will yet give an inspired impersonation of Richard M. Nixon. Yelling, “I am not a crook…and I am not gonna to give this job up!” would rank right up there with yelling, “I’m mad as H*LL, and I’m not going to take it anymore.”
Comment by washmyhands Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 4:52 pm
He can read phone books and recipes into the record for 90 minutes for all I care. The bottom line is that this freak show (the Blago administration) to coming to an end. Talk all you want Rod. I won’t listen and it isn’t going to matter.
Comment by jwscott72 Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 4:53 pm
Will this be televised? I’ve had trouble with my computer….
Comment by You Go Boy Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 4:57 pm
I hope he tells them all to get bleeped.
Comment by Bill Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 4:57 pm
We know what he would say if only someone would smuggle a kitten into the chamber.
Comment by phocion Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 5:00 pm
I doubt he will resign. Of course who knows? He may not even know what he plans to do.
Resigning doesn’t play to his future radio or TV personality and gigs.
Comment by IrishPirate Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 5:16 pm
I agree with Bambenek…
Comment by Loop Lady Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 5:19 pm
Bill, will you be there beside the Guv when he addresses the Senate?? LOL
Comment by Anonymous Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 5:20 pm
Oooooh, I’m thinking a trip to the ‘Patch may be in order. I really think he’s going to keep dropping celebrity names for the national media (Obama, Oprah, Rahm, JJJ, etc.), but he’s going to try to throw everyone possible “under the bus” including Reps, Senators, staffs, members of Congress, other constitutional offers (past, present & future), members of the media, the doormen, the pilot of his plane, his neighbors in Ravenswood Manor, Patti’s hairstylist, etc.
Of course he will be late. Question is how much? Anyone going to start a pool on that?
Comment by 312 Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 5:20 pm
“…governor has no plans of resigning tomorrow”
TOO BAD. Now THAT would be a TV appearance.
Comment by sal-says Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 5:22 pm
“Of course he will be late.”
Hmmm. He’s late - don’t wait. LOL
Comment by sal-says Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 5:23 pm
First, I think he always planned to speak before the senate, but wanted to go on his whirlwind pr tour first. He will tick off every single piece of legislation, rule, program, etc., that he can take credit for. He’ll then resurrect some altercations he’s had with various members of the GA and leadership to make an argument that he’s a victim in all of this and they’re just out to get him.
Comment by Ditto Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 5:26 pm
He will give a Festivus-like airing of grievances, resign at the last minute rather than be removed from office, and then will light himself on fire on the GA floor to make sure he is the lead story on the 10 o’clock news.
Comment by Six Degrees of Separation Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 5:29 pm
I hope he takes the opportunity to explain to everyone on this board that he has already been impeached, and the vote tomorrow is for conviction.
Then he will announce his new hair care product launch.
Comment by JoeMama Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 5:29 pm
to:
=Bill - Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 4:57 pm:
I hope he tells them all to get bleeped.=
Is this Cellini? Anyway, he’ll show up late, quote Mandela, Gandhi, and King. I wouldnt be surprised if his family appears with him. How many votes for impeachment?
Comment by Lucy Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 5:31 pm
Since his spokesman said he will not resign, there’s an excellent chance that he will.
There’s a part of me that is concerned he will truly do something insane.
Comment by Pot calling kettle Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 5:35 pm
Heh, good because she should have done that before the whole impeachment debacle started.
Comment by Levois Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 5:42 pm
Hey, Been There @ 3:55pm, I have to ask. Which one is the snark, Blago resigning or becoming the Cap Fax commentator? He’s got enough gall to appoint Patti to that open Metro Water Reclamation District seat! While he’s at it, he could also throw in a make-work $200K administrator job at Chicago State for Emil Jones, to pad the former Senate President’s pension. Sadly enough, this is only half-snarky.
Comment by cover Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 5:43 pm
pot-
Like a pistol duel with MJM on the GA floor? Has there been anything like it in IL since the early 1800’s?
Comment by Six Degrees of Separation Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 5:45 pm
He is going to give the phone numbers of his croonies like Robin Black and Tim Martin that wasted untold millions with their polticial mismangement
Comment by honesty in government Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 5:45 pm
He will finally divulge that he and MJM are fraternal twins separated at birth and, well, the rest is history!
Comment by A Citizen Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 5:50 pm
He will sing “My Way.”
Comment by Suburban Republican Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 5:57 pm
He will start talking - get all choked up, stop and leave the room. You know it’s gonna’ be something crazy dramatic for sure.
Comment by Toni H. Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 5:58 pm
Tomorrow will be the most exciting morning of his life. The nationwide media will be listening and watching more than ever before. He will be playing to the nation, not the Senate. Great publicity before his book is even written.
He will repeat the same stuff that he said to the media earlier this week and implore the Senate to stand up for truth, justice and the American way and acquit him..
He won’t throw anyone under the bus tomorrow but will send a strong message that he will if convicted.
It won’t work. He’ll be convicted. He’ll take everyone with him in a manner that will generate the most money for him, ie: a book.
I’ll bet that there are a lot of nervous legislators in Illinois tonight.
Comment by Silent Majority Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 6:06 pm
But first he will hold a press conference announcing:
* Dividing the state fair to make it more cost effective and profitable: Happy Hollow goes to the old Chicago Stockyards; Conservation World goes to Jo Davies County; the Sky Lift gets expanded and goes to Winnetka (year round)
* Red suitcases for all high school seniors
* Appointing his wife as Executive Director of the Lincoln Library & Museum
(Rich, thanks for the word “rebut.” I needed that.)
Comment by Cheswick Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 6:11 pm
Spokesman says governor has no plans to resign….when has this guy planned anything that was truly in the interest of “the people”. On the other hand, don’t ever believe anything until it’s been officially denied.
Comment by You Go Boy Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 6:15 pm
Have you noticed how, in trying to save his miserable butt on television, and now, in the Senate, at least he’s been on time, and doesn’t keep the audience waiting.
See, he is growing from this experience.
Comment by SpfldJimbo Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 6:16 pm
Sorry, Rich, for the inappropriate post of mine you delete. It’s your world, I just live in it.
I think he will try to resign to save his salary, pension and to not be convicted. I hope SOS will not accept his resignation and they can vote to convict any way. He will only resign after speaking for 1 1/2 hour but he will have nothing new to say.
Comment by 32nd Ward Roscoe Village Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 6:19 pm
I think Rod has finally seen the light. After all the media blitz and stress he has seen since the 9th of DecemberI think Rod comes out and actually talks in a sincere manner and admits to having made mistakes but also says he was “sucked into a corrupt system.”
Then he starts calling people on the carpet for being a part of the corrupt system giving specific examples.
This accomplishes two things, it makes him feel as if he is doing the right thing by exposing the underbelly of Illinois politics, and gives him a great ending to the forthcoming book entitled “How I Reformed Illinois.”
Comment by Speaking At Will Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 6:25 pm
I think he’ll berate the legislators. Not necessarily call them on their own corruption vulnerabilities, but I expect a long screed about evil Mike Madigan.
Comment by Quizzical Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 6:38 pm
He knows he’s going to have everyone on the edge of their seats wondering what he will say or do. In the end, though, he will just repeat the same horse hockey he’s been peddling all week long — I did nothing wrong, everything out of context, health care, mammograms, evil legislators hiding from the people in this far away place, if only Rahm and Jarrett could be here, yada, yada, yada — and then he will leave. He may bus in a few “supporters” to accompany him or wait for him outside. He may also make a brief show of cleaning out his second floor office. When he’s done, everyone will be wondering what all the fuss was about.
Comment by Bookworm Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 6:40 pm
==I doubt he can disprove anything in that impeachment report.==
That is because there is very little in there.
Comment by Bill Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 6:42 pm
Just as the Gov is about to give his closing, a black helicopter shall land disgorging men (memebrs of the tribune editorial board?) in black. These men in black shall abduct the Govenor to prevent him from helping sick children (well at least the ones who are treated in hopsitals that dontate money to the gov) and to allow for a large tax hike that the Govenor had been opposing (unless it was his GRT which would have been the largest tax increase in IL history).
Comment by Ghost Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 6:46 pm
Watching Blagojevich reminds me of what my boss said on my first day at my new job - Expect the unexpected. So it’s hard to divine what’s next even given his spokespersons comments. Anyway, here goes -
Rod will be right on time, and launch into a long-winded speech about how he is a modern day Robin Hood fighting for the people against the aristocratic oligarchs in the far off land of Springfield. His speech will probably be littered with prose and poetry classics to illustrate his points. I suspect he will hardly address the charges against him in any manner other than a few vague comments of how he did everything for the best will of the people and the General Assembly’s only intents during the past six years have been to thwart the best interests of the people and raise taxes.
I do not think he will “throw under the bus” anyone in the sense of the phrase as revealing secret deals or individual legislators possible illicit fundraising or anything like that. Instead I see him doing something more like he did on Larry King where he tried to wrap himself in the flag of President Obama and others in an attempt to legitimate his actions.
I expect Rod’s speech to be dignified, defiant, populist, and will send tingles up the legs of national media figures such as Geraldo et. al. while the rest of us shake our heads in disgust.
Comment by HoBoSkillet Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 6:48 pm
Blagojevich will ramble, pander, and plead. He will recite poetry, quote historical figures of note, and appeal to fairness, truth, justice and the American way.
No one will care, and he will be removed from office on a 57-2 vote.
Comment by DuPage Dave Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 6:51 pm
Here’s a scenario.
The governor or his representatives contact various people tonight telling them if he goes down, he’s going to drag them down too.
In the speech he will argue the Illinois Senate trial was defective.
Blagojevich will commute the sentences of some of Burge’s torture victims.
He will offer to step aside (let Quinn act as gov, but Blago keeps his salary) in two weeks. In the mean time he will review the remaining Burge cases.
He will ask for the Senate to take a day before voting.
During the extra day Blagojevich will negotiate. Blagojevich will be hoping for an agreement where he steps aside and is allowed to keep his salary. In exchange he’ll offer to keep his mouth shut about dirting or ratting out certain people who hold sway in the Illinois Senate.
By asking for two weeks Blagojevich can make it look like stepping aside is still a compromise.
Comment by Carl Nyberg Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 6:54 pm
Illinois_stage Twit:
Blagojevich’s private PR shop says something else is coming tonight, but they won’t say what.
Comment by Anonymous Coward Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 6:57 pm
I don’t think he will be on time to file his motion to appear, so he will say nothing.
Comment by Nothing Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 6:59 pm
who will Pat Quinn keep???? Good bye or adios Juan Ochoa!!!
Comment by Roberto Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 6:59 pm
OOPS…I really expected Glen Beck to be here standing by my side.
Comment by curoius george Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 7:00 pm
AA would vote with the YDD/Bambenek/Loop Lady group.
He may show up on time, but that will be the only part of his farewell address that goes well.
Rod, ironically as a former House member, well at least he cashed the checks, had nothing but contempt for the General Assembly and its co-equal status almost from day 1 of these miserable six years. AA can’t see how he will be able to resist the urge to stick it to them one more time, in their “House,” if you will.
It may be wrapped in populism and aimed at “the people,” but the real message will be pretty close to what Bill suggested.
Speaking of whom: Bill, you’ve been called a lot of things here over the years and taken it in good spirit, but I think today is the first time that someone (”Lucy” at 5:31pm) accused you of being Bill Cellini.
That post deserves the first Lead Horseshoe Award.
Comment by Arthur Andersen Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 7:13 pm
What I hope he will do:
- be on time
- take no more than his 90 minutes
- then resign
What he won’t do:
- be on time (and I wish he would be chastised)
- throw anyone under the bus
- cry
- take only 90 minutes and won’t give up the floor
- resign
- take the State plane home
- have one last ride in that nice black SUV
Comment by Little Egypt Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 7:14 pm
He will pardon a few people to make himself look good.
Comment by dicksimmons Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 7:18 pm
he will be 30 minutes late for sure, if convicted he will file a challenge with the supreme court. As the senate when along with his agenda for six years it wouldnt surprise me if he is aquitted.
Comment by foster brooks Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 7:21 pm
He will speak for 30 minutes and deny that he did anything wrong. He will position himself as a champion for the people and claim that the legislators are in it for themselves and don’t care for the people. He won’t resign. He’ll try to shame them all into voting for impeachment and argue that this vote is meaningless and that he’ll ultimately be vindicated. The response by the blood lust crowd on this website will be, to use Rich’s word, snarky. Eight years of irritating the people who make their living in and off of Springfield will all get paid back tomorrow.
And then we get Pat Quinn. Not that you’ll miss Rod, but give me a break. Governor Pat Quinn? He puts the “in” in “inadequate”. RIP ROD
Comment by Anonymous Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 7:24 pm
Calling or contacting any Senator from the time they adjourned this afternoon up to tomorrow morning - wouldn’t that be jury tampering? If I were any of the State Senators (with the exception of Rickey Hendon or Gary Forby), I wouldn’t answer my telephone.
Comment by Little Egypt Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 7:28 pm
Between now and 10 AM tomorrow he will file for an injunction to stop the proceedings.
Comment by A Citizen Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 7:33 pm
Here’s the ultimate pimp to RRB. Cullerton should call every Senator right now and get them back on the floor tonight. Have Ellis do his closing, and then do the vote. L.O.L.!!!!!
Comment by fed up Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 7:33 pm
To Dick Mell: can you help me out of this for old timess sake.
Reply: Sorry, can’t help you.
Comment by the ole precinct captain Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 7:49 pm
How appropriate that these communications are called Twits, because the person sending them sure is one!
Comment by Bookworm Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 7:52 pm
I’m out of predictions, having been wrong almost every time at guessing what he’ll do next. I think he’ll give the speech of his life, outlining the tell-all book that is certainly in the works, teasing but not quite throwing any particular people under the bus. This will be designed like the pr blitz, to ensure a lucrative book deal prior to the federal trial.
I suspect he’s on Sunnyside tonight re-reading Nixon’s Checkers speech. Look for him to talk about the new puppy, and say something like, “if I was guilty, I wouldn’t be in the financial mess I’m in.”
He will fully embrace his contrived status as public victim #1, and play it for all it’s worth. He’ll hope it’s worth a seven figure advance from a publishing house, knowing that he’ll need to make this about Rahm, Jarrett and Obama to really get the big bucks. Then he’ll resign, denying his tormenters the chance to exact justice.
But really, no one can predict what he’s going to do, especially me. I suspect tomorrow will be another wasted day at the office for me, scanning Capitol Fax and hitting the refresh button every 30 seconds.
Comment by 47th Ward Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 7:59 pm
Well, there must have been a reason Cullerton and Radogno were all smiles after hearing the news that Blago was coming. They know that letting him appear lets them off the hook with regard to Blago’s complaints of not being allowed to defend himself.
Allowing Blago to ramble for an hour and a half, even if he takes the whole time period, will probably save them a good hour or two of deliberation plus another hour plus of caucusing as well. The Republicans don’t have to go through the motions of playing devil’s advocate, and Hendon no longer has to ask his silly, inflammatory questions either.
So, maybe, if we’re lucky, this will actually speed up the process instead of slowing it down, and by this time tomorrow, we will have a non-embattled governor
Comment by Bookworm Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 7:59 pm
Whatever he says just remember this, we’re in the last 24 hours of a Blagojevich administration. It it requires that our senators waste 90 minutes of their life listening to him, then it’s worth it.
Comment by Downstater Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 8:05 pm
God only knows !! But you can be assured it will be damned entertaining ! Probably be his usually habitual late self. Jan 29 could be the end of the Blago “error”. Let’s hope & the state can maybe move on to some semblance of running ??
Comment by the concerned citizen Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 8:05 pm
I think Blago will hurry to get on the state plane for home before the Senate Impeachment vote. If not, he may be buying his own Amtrak ticket home.
Comment by Can't Say My Nickname Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 8:17 pm
So many good predictions here. To add, if I know Rod (which I don’t) he’ll:
–Hit all his talking points of the last two days.
– Mention Obama, Emanuel, Jarrett, Trips and Burris at every opportunity
– Talk about the “good work” he’s done with members of the GA (true of not) including Cullerton, Radagno and Cross.
– Stare daggers at DeLeo and Hendon for not defending him
– Describe how the real problem in the state is the omnipotent power of MJM
– conclude in a flurry of self-pity which may include a crown of thorns or a cross.
YDD, I think your idea of a House rebuttal is excellent. Madigan or Currie is fine with me.
I suggest something along the lines of Cromwell to the Long Parliament:
“You have sat too long for any good you have been doing lately … Depart, I say; and let us have done with you. In the name of God, go!”
Comment by wordslinger Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 8:18 pm
Adding….
– Describe how the real problem in the state is the omnipotent power of MJM AND DALEY
Don’t you think that Daley (and Todd) just love Obama and Blago? No one’s paying attention to them.
Comment by wordslinger Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 8:23 pm
In session today, Cullerton said that Governor needs to file some sort of paperwork with the Senate before he is allowed to appear. My guess is that he will not file any paperwork, the Senate will not allow him in the chamber, and he will stand outside the doors and complain about how they are not allowing him the right to defend himself. The national media will lap it up and spew it out as a travesty of justice.
Comment by Pot calling kettle Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 8:37 pm
He will give his victim speech and how this can happen to any one of them.
Then he will lecture the senators about how some of their past behavior could be mistaken for unethical.
Very subtle, but will be taken as the threat it is.
Comment by WindyCityGardener Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 8:38 pm
It’s too late for threats. If he has anything to say, he’d better say it now. Because in a week, he’s old news.
Comment by wordslinger Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 8:55 pm
After reiterating his talking points and pointing out the things he thinks he has accomplished, he will talk about his wife and daughters and break down in tears. That will play nicely for the TV cameras. A Blago “Checkers” speech!
Comment by RatherBeGolfing Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 9:01 pm
90 minutes of narcissistic blather. Wake me when it is time for the senators to vote.
Comment by Draggin' Slayer Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 9:01 pm
Why do all these Senators continue to talk directly to the media about the trial when their own rules prohibit such discussion? They don’t seem to have anymore respect for the law than the man they are trying.
Comment by one of the 35 Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 9:05 pm
Is anyone watching the mansion tonight to see if he shows up?
Comment by Chanson Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 9:07 pm
This would not be irrational given the state of he’s in, but he does need to be checked for weapons at the door.
Committing suicide before a conviction would be the only way he could financially provide for his family. It’s the only way they would get his pension since it will be lost as soon as the chief justice announces the vote.
He’s extremely narcissistic and considers himself a victim. Making himself a martyr while the cameras roll live wouldn’t be that big a step.
Hopefully he won’t do this, but a rational man would have resigned weeks ago and made a deal. He’s shown no tendency to do so.
He will give the speech of his life tomorrow, but no one will clap. It’s will be in that last minute that we will watch waiting to exhale.
Most likely nothing will happen. No antics, no outbursts and no resignation. It will be a let down like most of his appearances of late.
Comment by Downer Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 9:07 pm
Seems like he’s controlled this week, doesn’t it? The TV circuit while he could be attempting to defend himself (which he probably figured he couldn’t asccomplish); throwing the senate process under the bus repeatedly (the fix is in); now wanting to show up under his terms; probably to read from the list of legislators who wanted some appointment or favor as he looks them in the eye; likely another travesty. The senate should tell him; sorry - you didn’t show before now; it’s too late; the fix IS in (as you’ve said); your behavior is egregious to everyone; and the 90+% of IL citizens want this fixed and you are gone. Bye bye.
Comment by sal-says Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 9:10 pm
First, Chris R’s right… don’t let the SOB give a speech unless he’s willing to testify and go throught Cross Exam. And I’d change the rules to allow direct questions, not written.
That probably won’t happen. In that case, the House prosecuters better be up tonight working. Hammer the main points on close…duty to the people of Illinois, laughingstock of the nation, medecaid patients being denied health care because of this SOB. Then good themes on Rebuttal. You know what the guy’s going to say. Simple hard facts, over and over, point out the blatant lies you know are coming, Senators duty to the people, etc. The man’s an idiot and a liar. A good prosecuter can make mincemeat of him.
This guy belongs on the dung heap of history. Let’s get it done tomorrow.
Comment by Bobs yer Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 9:11 pm
Anybody notice how quiet it’s been at IDOT lately? Blago’s loyal followers (former followers?) must be laying low & cowering in the corners, shaking like leaves on a tree…I hope they’re all in the unemployment lines soon - even those who think they can hide and you know who you are!!
Comment by Alexandra Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 9:15 pm
What he wants is to be attacked by a group of men wearing togas as he enters the Senate.
He may announce that he will be moving to Hawaii to work at a leper colony and in his spare time fast for the sins of the Senate.
He really wants to make money selling “Spare the Rod” T-shirts.
Comment by Enemy of the State Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 9:19 pm
I think he will be dignified, basically say people who live in glass houses should not throw stones. Point out where he thinks the injustice was. Walk out, take the plane home and NOT resign. Remember, he still has the Trial to deal with.
Comment by He Makes Ryan Look Likea a Saint Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 9:26 pm
Assuming he doesn’t pull a Mark Antony and carry away the Senators, he can get a promotion from his job as governor by becoming Secretary of his father-in-law’s ward organization.
Comment by True Observer Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 9:31 pm
Agree with ‘He makes Ryan look like a Saint’.
He will say “your going to miss me when I am gone”. ” I will not be the last to fall on this sword.” ” Be careful for what you wish for”.
Comment by gg Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 9:37 pm
He will rehash the public statements he’s been making in his PR campaign this week, tapes don’t tell the complete story, yadda yadda. Then he might just go through the individual items of abuse of power and point out how many of them had the concurrence of the Senate but were blocked by the arch-evil MJM, and do his best to pit Senate against the House and challenge the Senators to stand up to Mike Madigan and those evil House minions. At the end, “for the people” he will resign, thereby avoiding a vote on removal and more importantly avoiding a vote on the ban on seeking public office. He will then announce (in the Senate or outside the Senate) that after he wins his criminal trial, he’ll be back for the next election to run again for Governor. On the other hand. . . that’s what he’d do if he had any shred of rationality left.. .so he probably won’t do that unless his new PR firm is really smart and he’s listening to him!
Comment by IVote Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 9:59 pm
I sure agree with a lot of this evening’s posters. Anything can happen in the morning but we are definitely in the last 24 hours of the Blagojevich administration. Hooray for that. I also agree that next week he will be old news. The press will be refocused, as they should be, on the country’s finances, GITMO, Afghanistan, etc. Adding insult to injury though, I would love to see some type of court order or injunction preventing Blago from profiteering on any kind of book or movie deal.
Comment by Little Egypt Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 10:00 pm
He will start off with a listing of all his accomplishments over his six years (things were being gathered from agencies this week) and how everything he has done has been the betterment of the people and those in need (children, poor, uninsured, etc.). He will go into how this whole process has not been fair (see talking points from the PR tour). He will then start going in on his enemies comparing what he is accused of and how his enemies have acted (asking for jobs, etc.). In the end he will relinguish his power to the Lt. Governor in a last ditch effort to stop the vote, remaining on the sidelines until after he clears his name in the real courts. [Or he may resign - either way he won’t let them get the satisfaction of throwing him out.]
Comment by Final Word Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 10:20 pm
On a lighter note, I wonder what Blago-related event SNL will choose to parody this week… The View? Geraldo? Larry King? Maddow (again)? The tapes? The closing argument (depending, of course, on its content)? Their writers are probably working overtime keeping up with all this too!
Comment by Bookworm Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 10:38 pm
If the senate votes to impeach him, and he is still in Springfield, does he still get to take the state plane home?
Comment by Lake Voter Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 10:40 pm
===How appropriate that these communications are called Twits, because the person sending them sure is one!===
They’re actually called “tweets,” but I agree that it’s more fun to call them “twits” because of the subject (Rod).
Comment by Tim Wednesday, Jan 28, 09 @ 10:47 pm
Blagojevich will step up to the microphone and champion himself as someone who has the best interest of Illinois in mind. He will try to make himself look like the victim, as he as just done on every media outlet willing to listen. He will try to inject his words with defiance and the crooked arrogance of someone who has abused his power and gotten caught. He will ignore the harsh stares and cries for his resignation because is his mind, he has done nothing wrong.
The question, however, should not be what Blagojevich will do, but what we, the citizens of Illinois will do. If justice is served and Blagojevich serves time for his crimes, will we finally wake up and stop letting the flawed and corrupt Chicago political machine embarrass and doom the rest of the state? After two governors have destroyed the reputation of a state known for Lincoln’s honesty, are we finally going to say enough is enough and force our lawmakers to pass campaign contribution reform and send a message that we the people do not condone pay to play?
Or, will we rejoice when he gets booted from office, only to turn the other cheek for the next crooked politician from Chicago? The choice is ours, and we will either ban another Blagojevich from taking office, or we will repeat the same mistake and be here again in a few years.
Comment by Editor from EM Thursday, Jan 29, 09 @ 12:24 am
I remain concerned that if he is as delusional as he appears to be that when the 2 x 4 of reality hits him between the eyes, he could do something dangerous a la =downers= comments. Unlikely, but still a concern.
My hope is that apologizes and then he resigns before he can be impeached. If he does that he deserves a ride home in the plane. If he doesn’t, the Senate should toss him before he gets to the airport, and the body guards should drop him off by the side of the road.
In any case, the State Police should not let anything be removed from the Gov’s office.
Comment by Pot calling kettle Thursday, Jan 29, 09 @ 12:30 am
He will walk in alone, no aides, no lawyers, carrying only a thin manila folder, or maybe a yellow legal pad, presenting to the national media the image of one lone crusader for the people versus Illinois’ entrenched, corrupt political system. He will spend 90 minutes rehashing all this week’s talking points, finishing with memorized verbatim quotes from “Mr. Smith Goes to Washington” (though how he works in the “sending boys to camp” idea is beyond me). He will chew up the colorless David Ellis and spit him out.
And then the Senate will convict him anyway, 54-5.
Is there a prize? What do I win?
Comment by Frank Capra's Ghost Thursday, Jan 29, 09 @ 1:37 am
He will probably start tossing people under the bus. He will bring Geraldo as legal counsel and for moral support. He will bring up Mandela, Ghandi, Dr. King, Mother Theresa, Abraham Lincoln, Pearl Harbor, The Spanish-American War, the Inquisition, talk about the 10 kids enrolled in All Kids, Winston Churchill, 9/11, then quote the following not necessarily in this order: Joyce, Keats, Socrates, Kipling, Jesus Christ, Karl Marx, Shakespeare, Tenyson, Twain, Angelou, Frost, and for a grand finale Nixon’s “I am not a crook” which will bring thundering laughter to an otherwise disinterested senate chamber. 100% snark-free
Comment by Beyond Embarrassed Thursday, Jan 29, 09 @ 4:44 am
“As I leave you I want you to know that you won’t have Rod Blagojevich to kick around any more.”
Comment by Central_IL_farm_boy Thursday, Jan 29, 09 @ 5:37 am
For those of you who are concerned, I will be honored to give Governor Blagojevich a ride home tonight. We can stop at the ’50s diner for dinner, listen to some Elvis, and commiserate that the capitol, despite his best efforts, is still 200 miles away, forcing us to make the boring, tedious drive up I55 back to civilization.
He’ll have to agree to be the designated driver. I hope he remembers how.
Comment by Bill Thursday, Jan 29, 09 @ 6:51 am
I won’t be surprised if we get to see a few busloads of ‘free box lunch’ citizens arriving just before he does. Noisey, some “save our guv” signs, jumping in front of the national cameras to atest how great Rod is. Then while Rod gives his 90 minutes — the rotunda will echo with chanting from the free boxers–the national media will lap it all up–repeating little else than what we’ve heard him say for days. He’ll add in a trunk load of ‘letters of support’ from the citizens who could not come along with him today. Then he’ll toss in a few pointed direct shots at a handful of senators.
What I hope they refuse to let him do in his 90 is lapse into any poems, stories ect. It has no place in this, a total waste of time. If the guy can’t fill 90 with rebutting what was said/heard/presented at trial it doesn’t pertain to the case.
Comment by Princess Thursday, Jan 29, 09 @ 6:52 am
Guv’s appearance scheduled to start at 11 a.m. … that’s noon Eastern, 9 a.m. Pacific, and 5 p.m. GMT (if any of you have friends across the pond).
I bet at least some of the actors who’ve been mentioned as possibilities to play Blago on screen will be watching (or at least TiVo-ing) the proceedings!
Comment by Bookworm Thursday, Jan 29, 09 @ 6:59 am
What he says will be largely determined by the Chief Justice. If the Chief Justice does his job, the governor will address the charges by saying he was working in the best interest of the State. If the Chief Justice acts weak, it could be a circus.
Comment by Pelon Thursday, Jan 29, 09 @ 7:12 am
great time for a campaign announcement
Comment by GOPJay Thursday, Jan 29, 09 @ 7:16 am
How about some Doors to go out with
This is the End
My only friend the end
Of our elaborate plans, the end
I’ ll never look into your eyes again
this is the ennnndddddd
Comment by Hack Slacker Thursday, Jan 29, 09 @ 8:01 am
It’s 8 a.m. and he hasn’t left his house yet. Lucio is at the house and says he’s going to fly down, give his speech and fly back immediately.
So that’s the posse, the caravan, the plane, back and forth, all on your dime in the midst of the worst economic crisis in decades.
Vulgar and clueless to the end.
Comment by wordslinger Thursday, Jan 29, 09 @ 8:05 am
I’m predicting a Gene Hackman in Hoosiers kind of speech where he “apologize[s] for nothing” and says that he is “proud” of the work he’s done. Following the script, the vote to impeach will be overwhelming, just like they voted nearly unanimously to oust Coach Norman Dale. Unfortunately for Rod, he doesn’t have Jimmy Chitwood to come back to the “team” and encourage the Senators to reverse their vote. Rod will strut to the airport, remain resolutely in denial about his problems and go home on his last flight on the state airplane. I don’t know that I’d necessarily agree that the plane trip is “vulgar” as wordslinger has said, but Rod would be better advised to drive home. Not that he’s demonstrated any ability to follow sound advice…
Comment by chiatty Thursday, Jan 29, 09 @ 8:18 am
Princess — who is going to pay for the buses and box lunches? I thought his campaign fund is effectively frozen, and at the very least, being monitored. An announcement that the crowd was bought and paid for by his campaign fund would look bad, and where else would the money come from?
Comment by Anon Thursday, Jan 29, 09 @ 8:18 am
I predict that he will be an hour late.
Comment by Drew Blagojevich Thursday, Jan 29, 09 @ 8:22 am
Bill, lunch won’t be a dutch treat. You’ll have to pay ’cause the guy’s now broke. Don’t forget to be nice to the waitress and don’t skimp on the tip. She might pour ya an extra cup o’ joe.
Comment by Little Egypt Thursday, Jan 29, 09 @ 8:35 am