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* 2:10 pm - They’ll have five minutes each…
* As I predicted to my subscribers this morning, Sen. Rickey Hendon is asking that the question be divided so that some of the charges can be separated out from the single article of impeachment.
Chief Justice: I believe that the only one at this late juncture even possibly authorized to make such a change would be the House itself. The CJ also cited a trial rule that prohibits such motions.
Motion denied.
Sen. Cullerton will now preside over the deliberations.
* Sen. Haine (D) - (A former state’s attorney) Thanked the House and the House prosecutor for bringing the Senate a “Well-founded bill of impeachment.” Thanked Speaker Madigan for his “constancy over the years” and for “upholding the constitutional system here in this state” as well as the “rule of law.”
The evidence is clear that this governor and his associates… not only misused a position of great power and authority… but he misused good public policy to enrich these associates and himself to further his political gain.”
The governor’s argument is “consistent” with his patter of abuse in office. “He did not present any evidence to contradict the sworn statements under oath.”
“We must act consistent with our oath and we must find him unfit for this great office.”
* Sen. Righter (R) - The executive is not solely responsible for what has gone wrong. But Rod Blagojevich is the focus, so our attention should be there.
“Repeated and intentionally and apparently without reservation, violated federal law [and his duties].” Said the governor should be removed and forbidden from ever holding office again.
* Sen. Dillard (R) - “How pathetic is it that we have a governor who says he’s concerned with healthcare” and then tries to shake down a hospital administrator for a 50K contribution?
* Sen. Murphy (R) - “He reminded us today in real detail that he is an unusually good liar.” “He lied about the process [rules].”
* A few stories of interest. Illinois Issues: Blagojevich makes his case… Trib’s Clout Street coverage… Lots of quotes at SJ-R Twitter page
* Sen. Delgado (D) - Very, very sad day in the state of Illinois. We’re here to restore that public trust, to make sure that our communities are at the table and not on the menu. (He didn’t actually talk to the issue, however.)
* Sen. Raoul (D) - “The House prosecutor was right. Being governor is not a right, it’s a privilege and it’s one that’s been abused by our governor.”
“It’s a lie for him to say that he didn’t have an opportunity to present evidence. A lie… The governor presented absolutely no evidence in this case, absolutely no evidence.”
* Sen. Rutherford (R) - “The greatest offense by this governor is that he effectively paralyzed our state government.” As he played his “bizarre political theater,” families have suffered. “Rod Blagojevich has actually hurt real people, and you know what? I know that.”
“If he was sincere about providing healthcare he wouldn’t be trying to shake down the chief executive of Childrens Hospital.”
“All the evidence is overwhelming.”
* Sen. Luechtefeld (R) - If things don’t change, we’ve been spending an awful lot of time for naught.
* Sen. Viverito (D) - Offers prayers for the Blagojevich children and the rest of the family, as well as for the citizens of Illinois “who have suffered through this ordeal.”
* Sen Brady (R) - Athough we are closing this chapter today, our work is not done. We know from the evidence we heard that corruption still exists in this state…. We know that we need to pass whistleblower laws…
* Sen. Burzynski (R) - The governor has proven his disdain for us as legislators.
* Sen. Noland (D) - No one is above the law. Illinois needs a new business model for politics
* The Senate GOP has posted all the audio from earlier today (prosecutor and governor) on this page.
* Sen. John O Jones (GOP) - “The governor put the icing on the cake today when he said ‘I did not intend to break the law.’ He did break the law.”
“He named those people [potential witnesses] for a reason, because he knew they could not come here and testify.”
* Sen Bomke (R) - “Instead of cleaning up corruption and pay to play, he’s epitomized it.” Auditor General Holland had the most compelling testimony when he said this governor has violated both state and federal law.
* Sen. Link (D) - “…Well, the whole world is watching Illinois again today. And you know what? I’m sick and tired of it.”
“We’ve been duped again. You were (pointing to Republicans) with the last governor, we were (Democrats) with this governor.”
“We in this chamber can do something about this now. This isn’t a partisan problem.”
What we do today is history, but… “It’s not going to be a footnote that you’re going to be happy that your grandchildren are reading.”
* 3:40 pm - In case you’re wondering, some of us will gather at the Alamo in Springfield today to contemplate the trainwreck and look forward to the future. A few will begin arriving after work. I’ll be there after this is over. There will be another announcement after the vote.
* Sen. Syverson (R) - “The governor gave a good speech today. But his speeh doesn’t change the facts of this case.”.
* Sen. Sandoval (D) - “This day truly will go down as a day of infamy.”
* Sen. Schoenberg (D) - There is no disputing, as the evidence and testimony has overwhelmingly proved, there is a consistent thread tying all the behavior together that demonstrates an abuse of power.
* Sen. Sullivan (D) - “His appearance today was, to say the least, too little, too late.”
“As a colleague told some of us today, ‘I feel like I’ve been punched in the gut.’”
* Sen. Koehler (D) - We shouldn’t use impeachment for policy reasons, “and I don’t think we’ve done that in this case.”
* Sen. Martinez (D) - Claimed she heard a joke on CNN this morning, but said she wasn’t sure it was a joke, that nothing would come to Illinois from the federal stimulus package as long as Blagojevich was governor. Not true, of course.
“I think tonight I’m probably going to sleep a little better.”
* Sen. Meeks (D) - Praising the constitutional process of removing a governor from office without any need to resort to violence.
“We have this thing called impeachment and it’s bleeping golden.” Quote of the day, particularly since it came from a minister.
* Tribune…
“They’re doing an impeachment when they didn’t prove a single wrongdoing, didn’t prove a single wrongdoing. And now they’re even saying things like we don’t have to prove anything wrong, we just want to move in a different direction,” Blagojevich said. “I probably shouldn’t say this…I’m getting ready to go run. I’ll see you on the way and one of these days you guys will go back to what you used to do, right?”
* Sen. Hendon (D) - “This is a sad day. It’s a sad day for the citizens of Illinois.” Hendon criticized some for blaming all corruption on George Ryan and Rod Blagojevich. He said he was for recall, and criticized the House for “playing games” with the recall measure. He pushed publicly funded campaigns. “Let’s get something out of this for the people of Illinois, for the people of America.”
Hendon also predicted the impeachment vote would pass 59-0.
* Sen. Hutchinson (D) - Mentioned “the absence of a defense” as a main reason for believing that Blagojevich should be removed from office.
* Sen. Watson (R) - Teared up while saying he might have played a role in the this tragedy. Talked about the strain put on staff during this process.
“Yesterday’s testimony by Bill Holland was it… It focused the attention of all of us to what was going on….
“We’re only as good as the people we have around us… Where were the good people who were around Gov. Blagojevich?”
“He wouldn’t look at me when we talked about I-Save RX.”
* Sen. Radogno (Republican Leader) - “This isn’t about disagreement with the governor, as he would have us believe.”
“The totality of evidence shows the governor has abused his power repeatedly and over a long period of time.”
* Sen Clayborne (Majority Leader) - In my previous life I was a prosecutor. “They did an excellent job.”
Clayborne is making an excellent point. The governor talked about how he wanted to call Rahm Emanuel, Dick Durbin, etc. as witnesses for his defense. But Clayborne asked why didn’t the guv want to call his brother? Why not others mentioned as alleged co-conspirators? This is a point that has been way overlooked by everyone, but particularly by the NY bloviators who took up Blagojevich’s cause as their own. He didn’t mention calling them because they wouldn’t have helped his case.
“I believe that, governor, you are unfit.”
posted by Rich Miller
Thursday, Jan 29, 09 @ 2:20 pm
Sorry, comments are closed at this time.
Previous Post: The prosecution’s rebuttal
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There goes the judge!
Sorry, couldn’t resist and no doubt showing my age.
Comment by Nearly Normal Thursday, Jan 29, 09 @ 2:23 pm
Rich, Many have said it, but I would like to thank you for all you do. It is greatly appreciated.
Comment by Say WHAT? Thursday, Jan 29, 09 @ 2:23 pm
Any chance we get to hear Forby, that would make this just a little bit better.
Comment by Skip Thursday, Jan 29, 09 @ 2:24 pm
History
Comment by Hair today, gone tomorrow Thursday, Jan 29, 09 @ 2:24 pm
I second your sentiments, SW.
Comment by Nearly Normal Thursday, Jan 29, 09 @ 2:26 pm
wow…
Comment by Anonymous Thursday, Jan 29, 09 @ 2:27 pm
Nearly Normal - isn’t it “here comes the judge”? Now I’m showing my age.
Anyword on the mood at the JRTC?
Comment by Former State Employee 2 Thursday, Jan 29, 09 @ 2:28 pm
Agreed. Rich and the whole community on here has provided EXCELLENT coverage on all of this.
Can we take down the Rod R. Blagojevich, Governor signs down as soon as the vote is taken?
Comment by Illini Lurker Thursday, Jan 29, 09 @ 2:28 pm
Only 5 hours max to go!
Comment by Barnum and Blago Thursday, Jan 29, 09 @ 2:29 pm
Is there a procedure for the order of the speakers? Was this worked out by caucuses?
Comment by Nearly Normal Thursday, Jan 29, 09 @ 2:31 pm
Why would you want to miss the pontifications? Not only do they deserve to finally get things off their chest, but their responses will tell you a lot about who is governing our state. Sit down and become aware.
Comment by glued Thursday, Jan 29, 09 @ 2:32 pm
Please keep your drive-by comments to yourselves. Let’s keep this dignified. I have no time to constantly moderate comments.
Comment by Rich Miller Thursday, Jan 29, 09 @ 2:34 pm
What happens to the vice governor spot once Pat becomes governor?
What’s a vice governor?
Comment by dave Thursday, Jan 29, 09 @ 2:34 pm
I predicted before 3:30…I might need to take that back. I could see the President’s screen on CNN and there a lots of blinking lights. I guess they won’t be able to hold back like the House did.
Comment by Pot calling kettle Thursday, Jan 29, 09 @ 2:35 pm
Was on the phone when the senate came back in from caucus. Was there any indication about how many senators were going to speak?
Comment by tanstaafl Thursday, Jan 29, 09 @ 2:36 pm
you get to be “vice governor”, anonymous! congrats
Comment by beagle Thursday, Jan 29, 09 @ 2:36 pm
We already have a “vice” governor - for a few more hours at least…
Comment by JW Thursday, Jan 29, 09 @ 2:37 pm
Dillard says that Edgar and Thompson didn’t shake anybody down? Then why did they require us state employees to buy fundraising tickets every yeart they were in office?? I always thought that was what the word “shakedown” meant.
That has nothing to do with Blago’s removal, but please, let’s not sugarcoat history….
Comment by DuPage Dave Thursday, Jan 29, 09 @ 2:39 pm
The Children’s shake down keeps coming up. In my eyes, that was the worst of all the allegations.
Comment by Hair today, gone tomorrow Thursday, Jan 29, 09 @ 2:42 pm
our vice governor is going away.
sorry, Rich, if that’s a drive-by comment. i couldn’t resist.
and yes, your coverage has been amazing. thank you!
Comment by been there Thursday, Jan 29, 09 @ 2:43 pm
Sorry, my comment didn’t go all the way through. It was a Tony Rezko joke, though.
In any rate. For what feels like the 220th time, there will be no Lieutenant Governor under Governor Quinn. Should something happen to him (god forbid), line of succession leads to the AG (Lisa Madigan).
Everybody got it? Good.
Comment by Concerned Observer Thursday, Jan 29, 09 @ 2:44 pm
I was listening to call ins on CSPAN just before deliberations began, IL call ins ‘get it’, out of state caller don’t seem to be. I think it’s important that these senators now get the 5 each if they chose it to show their thoughts n reasons. Yeah, I’m wanting a quick vote now , I don’t wait well, but this part is as important as presenting the case was.
Comment by Princess Thursday, Jan 29, 09 @ 2:44 pm
CLTV has a report that the Governor has arrived at his home. He told reporters that he plans to go for a jog.
Comment by GA Watcher Thursday, Jan 29, 09 @ 2:44 pm
I am impatient too - but I have been for 6 + years now. I can wait a bit longer as they fulfill their obligations and “do the right thing”.
Comment by A Citizen Thursday, Jan 29, 09 @ 2:45 pm
Senator Duffy, to the governor’s removal from office, please.
Comment by JonShibleyFan Thursday, Jan 29, 09 @ 2:47 pm
Rich, I’ve been more than a casual observer over the last few weeks. Thanks for providing the “go to” place to keep up to date on all this.
Comment by casual observer Thursday, Jan 29, 09 @ 2:48 pm
What the heck is Lauzen talking about????
Comment by Hair today, gone tomorrow Thursday, Jan 29, 09 @ 2:51 pm
I hope someone counters the Gov’s statement about providing healthcare to 35,000 parents after Pres. Bush kicked them off. JCAR supported keeping those parents on. JCAR wanted those parenats to be covered b ut in the rules meant to prevent those parents from losing coverage, the Gov imbedded a NEW level of coverage for higher income parents. JCAR asked HFS to separate the two populations so that the lower income group could continue to receive coverage and HFS refused. The charge isn’t because he wanted to cover paretns who were losing coverage, its because he tried to piggyback a new program using those parents as political cover. Human shields. That is caring isn’t it.
His point of other states JCAR like groups is not relevant. Why? JCAR is established under law. If the Gov thought they were unconstitutional then fine he should have challenge JCAR in court, but until the law is ruled unconstitutional it is still the law! The Gov would say the ends would justify the means. Using the same logic he used to go around JCAR, anyone could do something contray to law and argue they thought it was unconstitutional. Anarchy. Such an interpretation would give a Gov the ability to do almost anything. Yes that takes it to extremes but that is were such an approach would lead.
The Gov as he shown in his own words has always put himself first and used the people as a shield. It is time to move forward and remove him from office. His actions sicken me and disappoint me. Many others share those feelings. Let’s move on now.
Comment by Hoping For Rational Thought Thursday, Jan 29, 09 @ 2:51 pm
Are they going back and forth or is the GOP done?
Comment by Peter Thursday, Jan 29, 09 @ 2:57 pm
any intel on what percentage of the Senators will speak? i realize they are each given 5 minutes, but that does not mean they will take it. just wondering.
Comment by Amy Thursday, Jan 29, 09 @ 2:58 pm
Does Senator Delgado have a clue as to what is going on here??
Comment by Downstater62246 Thursday, Jan 29, 09 @ 2:58 pm
…Passing a statute to change the law and get things done. That’s why we have rules in our society.
Quite the concepts.
–
Concerned Observer, others….
Wouldn’t a theoretical Gov. Quinn need to appoint someone to an open spot at Lt. Gov. … w/ approval by Senate?
I’ve honestly never thought about it.
Comment by Rob_N Thursday, Jan 29, 09 @ 2:58 pm
Okay, that answered that.
Comment by Peter Thursday, Jan 29, 09 @ 2:59 pm
1) I’m having to delete way too many moronic, impatient, silly drive-by comments. Stop, please.
2) There is no Lt. Gov. once Quinn moves up.
Comment by Rich Miller Thursday, Jan 29, 09 @ 3:01 pm
Yes, Bivins had it right! The gov should have been impeached before he got re-elected. Our state would not even be close to the kind of trouble it’s in now if that would have happened.
Comment by bmrnp Thursday, Jan 29, 09 @ 3:04 pm
Can everyone PLEASE stop asking who will be Lt. Governor when Quinn takes over? It will remain vacant, just as it did when Bob Kustra left to take another job before Edgar’s second term ended.
Comment by Anonymous ZZZ Thursday, Jan 29, 09 @ 3:05 pm
Sen. Raoul making a very good point -
‘Gov. had the opportunity to challenge evidence presented and to present his own.’
‘It’s a lie to say he had no chance to do so.’
Take that National Media…..
…Also making another good point on being an advocate for health care:
Folks can agree with the policy ideas, but try to enact those ideas through legit means (w/o shaking down execs at Children’s Hospital).
Comment by Rob_N Thursday, Jan 29, 09 @ 3:06 pm
One more time campers:
The Illinois Constitution (Article 5, Section 7) clearly states that “if the Lieutenant Governor fails to qualify or his office becomes vacant, it shall remain vacant until the end of his term.”
So, there will be no Lite Gov again until after the 2010 election. A governor cannot appoint his own successor — he or she must be elected.
Article 5, Section 6 (a) states that “the elected Attorney General (and) the elected Secretary of State” follow the lieutenant governor in the line of successor. Therefore, Lisa Madigan is next in line for the next year and 11 1/2 months, followed by Jesse White.
Comment by Secret Square Thursday, Jan 29, 09 @ 3:06 pm
CO, Rich, Secret…
Thanks. Been a while since 8th grade.
Comment by Rob_N Thursday, Jan 29, 09 @ 3:09 pm
Under the Illinois state Constitution Article V section 7. “If the Lieutenant Governor fails to qualify or if his office becomes vacant, it shall remain vacant until the end of the term.”
Comment by Anon E. Mouse Thursday, Jan 29, 09 @ 3:10 pm
That’s correct I forgot under Thompson…Lt. Gov Dave O’Neal resigned with like two years left and it remained open.
Comment by stallion Thursday, Jan 29, 09 @ 3:12 pm
Nice touch with the call out for the Blago children- they will have heavy crosses to bear going forward
Comment by Inish Mein Thursday, Jan 29, 09 @ 3:14 pm
Rich, are you quoting all the Senators that speak or only selected ones? How many have spoken already?
Comment by Ken in Aurora Thursday, Jan 29, 09 @ 3:17 pm
Has anyone detected a pattern as to who gets to speak next or how the speaker list is organized? Or will this really go five hours (60X5/60 = 5 hours)?
Comment by Deep South Thursday, Jan 29, 09 @ 3:19 pm
Doesn’t say much about the value of a Lt. Gov if there doesn’t seem to be the need to fill the open slot.
Comment by Anon E. Mouse Thursday, Jan 29, 09 @ 3:20 pm
I am comforted by each Senator that is speaking so defiantly about how Blago has abused his powers and been corrupt. Anyone wanting to speak out should be able to explain their vote this way - least their constituents don’t understand.
Next step, to police themselves and everyone else in government better.
Comment by sidepocket Thursday, Jan 29, 09 @ 3:23 pm
I’m counting 16 having spoken (11 Rep. 5 Dem.) with the Republicans going in order from back to front. It looks like most of the Republicans are speaking, the pattern is less clear with the Democrats.
Comment by PD Shaw Thursday, Jan 29, 09 @ 3:23 pm
Patience, Grasshopper! I hope they all speak.
Comment by Jimbos Thursday, Jan 29, 09 @ 3:25 pm
Hmmm…the message from the Senate is clear that some agency housecleaning is gonna follow…
Comment by Anonymous Thursday, Jan 29, 09 @ 3:31 pm
I know Genson quit, did the others quit too? I’m just wondering if he’s going to file a lawsuit, for only God knows what.
Comment by EarlyBird Thursday, Jan 29, 09 @ 3:33 pm
by my count Rich is listing all who speak. i have 5 dems so far and 13 republicans. thanks for the bits from all, Rich.
Comment by Amy Thursday, Jan 29, 09 @ 3:35 pm
Anon-3:31pm
How does the Senate clean up the current agencies?
Comment by Deep South Thursday, Jan 29, 09 @ 3:35 pm
I think you are right, PD. Bomke is 17.
Comment by beyond over Thursday, Jan 29, 09 @ 3:36 pm
is this being televised in Chgo? I can’t find it anywhere.
Comment by anon Thursday, Jan 29, 09 @ 3:36 pm
Jones made some good points and I liked he took the ruler and cracked their knuckles over that ‘recall’ game. But most, I liked so far Rutherford I felt he spoke for the little peons like me that have felt real impact from the governor this year. I’m enjoying this part.
Comment by Princess Thursday, Jan 29, 09 @ 3:37 pm
Its on CLTV. Cable not air.
Comment by hv in HP Thursday, Jan 29, 09 @ 3:38 pm
I don’t have CLTV, any other options? I can’t be chained to my computer.
Comment by anon Thursday, Jan 29, 09 @ 3:39 pm
Also on C-SPAN.
Comment by Ken in Aurora Thursday, Jan 29, 09 @ 3:40 pm
I count Syverson as 20
Haine, Righter, Dillard, Murphy, Duffy, Lauzen, Delgado, Cronin, Bivins, Raoul, Rutherford, Luechtefeld, Viverito, Brady, Burzynski, Noland,
J Jones, Bomke, Link, Syverson
Comment by daveshomeroast Thursday, Jan 29, 09 @ 3:43 pm
Thanks for the C-SPAN!
Comment by anon Thursday, Jan 29, 09 @ 3:44 pm
===by my count Rich is listing all who speak. i have 5 dems so far and 13 republicans. thanks for the bits from all, Rich.===
No mention of Lauzen up there, so you’ll want to add 1 R to that count.
Comment by Tim Thursday, Jan 29, 09 @ 3:45 pm
I disagree strenuously with Dave Syverson. We do need new ethics laws/ Illinois is one of five states with no limits on legislative campaign contributions from any source. What is he thinking? Status quo is good enough? That the only problem is Blago? Gimme a break.
Comment by Reform Now! Thursday, Jan 29, 09 @ 3:47 pm
Sen. Noland offered a refreshingly frank perspective addressing the historical, well-known and widespread corruption in our state that really got me thinking. Getting rid of Blago will not get rid of corruption, just as convicting Ryan didn’t get rid of corruption. Getting rid of Stroger and Daley wouldn’t get rid of corruption either. Why? Because it’s who comes in, not who goes out, that rids us of corruption. I’m pleased with what I’m seeing today, particularly among some of the new senators. We are moving in the right direction, and with Quinn I think we will make some real headway.
Comment by Keep Smiling Thursday, Jan 29, 09 @ 3:47 pm
Rich .. will you edit out the snark from the Senator’s comments? lol
“Free at last, free at last, free at last!”
BTW, I think you are doing a grand job with your summaries today and coverage this week. Thank you very much.
Anyone looking in Springfield for coverage - Channel 8 on cable.
Comment by sidepocket Thursday, Jan 29, 09 @ 3:49 pm
Garrett (my senator) on now. C-Span said that they’re voting “next”…does that mean that they’re voting today?
Comment by Ben S. Thursday, Jan 29, 09 @ 3:49 pm
IMHO Lauzen’s comments were trite and not worth paraphrasing.
Comment by glued Thursday, Jan 29, 09 @ 3:49 pm
I missed Lauzen! What did he say? Apparently it was crazy.
Comment by Ramsin Thursday, Jan 29, 09 @ 3:50 pm
You’re right, dave — Dahl is 22, and Garrett is 23. Dahl made a good point about restoring faith in government…this is going to be over no time soon. Unfortunately. We still have a criminal trial to go through, but that could be a ways off.
Comment by beyond over Thursday, Jan 29, 09 @ 3:50 pm
The State Senate is certainly rising to the occasion. Solemn, sincere, to the point, fair, intelligent, logical, heartfelt, united, and for the people. I am beginning to feel proud to be an Illinoisan again. Thank you, Senators. Godspeed, Pat Quinn.
Comment by phocion Thursday, Jan 29, 09 @ 3:50 pm
Speaker Madigan did everything he could to keep him in check over the last several years. What a mess. It’s a shame others who worked so well with Blago are not in trouble themselves. Good Riddance!! I am sure Pat Quin will do a great job as our next Governor. I wish hin good luck!!
Comment by emyjo Thursday, Jan 29, 09 @ 3:52 pm
@Ramsin
http://www.impeachment.senategop.net/Assets/Lauzen.mp3
Comment by Anon Thursday, Jan 29, 09 @ 3:53 pm
Phocion, I am feeling the same way.
Comment by Lurker Thursday, Jan 29, 09 @ 3:54 pm
Well said, phocion. And I agree w/ all the other posters, this blog is invaluable, Rich. And I also like the article Dusty Rhodes wrote.
Comment by Glad it's almost over Thursday, Jan 29, 09 @ 3:54 pm
Has anyone at all went on record saying I will vote to acquit?
Comment by Segatari Thursday, Jan 29, 09 @ 3:55 pm
ok, now i’m at 9 Dems and 15 Republicans. i can’t think from the increased volume (Schoenberg) and the “free at last” from Sandoval. jeesh.
Comment by Amy Thursday, Jan 29, 09 @ 3:55 pm
They are all doing a great job. I hope that everyone who has been snowed by the Governor’s tale of woe and have become sympathetic to him are listening to this. I am proud to know many of them and know first hand how seriously and solemnly they have been taking this proceeding, and they are showing it now. I hope that Geraldo is watching.
Comment by beyond over Thursday, Jan 29, 09 @ 3:56 pm
traveling with no radio or tv coverage so I truly appreciate the minute to minute coverage. mb
Comment by mb Thursday, Jan 29, 09 @ 3:57 pm
With Schoenberg, I’ve got 24 (15 Rep. 9 Dem.), which is about 68% of the Republicans and 24% of the Democrats having spoken. So either the Republicans are weighted to speaking first or many Democrats don’t want to speak today.
Comment by PD Shaw Thursday, Jan 29, 09 @ 3:57 pm
“Cannot achieve moral ends by immoral means.”
True, that.
…..As a sidenote, can’t Illinois Info Services put a caption noting who is speaking on its livefeed?
Comment by Rob_N Thursday, Jan 29, 09 @ 4:04 pm
I always had Iris Martinez in the iffy column, I was just not sure what she would do. This is going to be 59-0!!!
Comment by ivoted4judy Thursday, Jan 29, 09 @ 4:07 pm
The senatorial comments are more than a bit self-serving as these are the very people who enabled this guy to do what he did for 6 years! From the very first Auditor General’s CMS audit, we all knew there was a serious problem–and THEY let it go. These senators, the Attorney General and the Sangamon Co. State’s Atty–all of whom had the statutory authority to do something about the Gov’s more notorius actions–should be required to explain why they didn’t!
Comment by 06 Thursday, Jan 29, 09 @ 4:09 pm
And Hunter makes 30 total, 14 Dems and 16 Republicans.
Meeks…what a joy that we don’t have to get guns and bombs and get the Gov. out of the second floor. we have this thing called impeachment, and it’s bleepin golden. yikes
Comment by Amy Thursday, Jan 29, 09 @ 4:10 pm
Meeks….that is best so far
Comment by stallion Thursday, Jan 29, 09 @ 4:10 pm
“Impeachment is bleeping golden”, haha, that will be the headline on the cable news shows
Comment by Go Illini Thursday, Jan 29, 09 @ 4:11 pm
Meeks….that is best so far…LOL
Comment by stallion Thursday, Jan 29, 09 @ 4:11 pm
I missed some of the deliberations.
Comment by Levois Thursday, Jan 29, 09 @ 4:14 pm
mb -
Go to CNN.com for live vid or WGNradio.com for audio.
Comment by Rob_N Thursday, Jan 29, 09 @ 4:15 pm
Why did Ricky throw the race card?
Comment by Dan S, a taxpaer, a voter and a Cubs Fan Thursday, Jan 29, 09 @ 4:15 pm
Impeachment It’s Bleepin Golden
I think we have a fund raising T-Shirt idea Rich
Comment by OneMan Thursday, Jan 29, 09 @ 4:15 pm
Meeks is the best. I am joining his army.
Comment by Mild Mannered Meeks Thursday, Jan 29, 09 @ 4:15 pm
Loving Meeks, not liking Hendon, but never have.
Comment by Leigh Thursday, Jan 29, 09 @ 4:15 pm
Meeks got even for Rod never taking care of education.
Comment by downstate demo Thursday, Jan 29, 09 @ 4:16 pm
With every Senator who makes reference to what is “clear” from the criminal complaint, the issue only becomes more central: how do we know how “clear” it really is? Based upon what? The testimony of the FBI agent who wouldn’t answer any question not specifically within his limited charter? Here’s where the Governor made a grave tactical error. Just 15 minutes of questions from a guy like Genson, with the agent refusing to answer because it would be beyond his approved parameters, might’ve underscored that no meaningful cross-examination was possible. And that would’ve made the point that nothing has been “proven” in any sense of the word, regardless of the nature of the proceeding.
Now, mind you, the Governor is totally bluffing about wanting all these tapes released. He wants no such thing, but he knows it would never happen in this proceeding. He was counting on it.
Comment by Begging the Question Thursday, Jan 29, 09 @ 4:17 pm
OMG! Herndon never disappoints !
Comment by Anonymous Thursday, Jan 29, 09 @ 4:17 pm
so Hendon says 2 members of Congress, one Dem, one Repub, said don’t send the money to Ill. I did not watch CNN today, but did hear the bit somewhere about no money to Ill. unless no Rod. the punditry and the comments seem to be inflicting everyone. which probably means the Hendon silk drawers comment will come up again. uggh.
Comment by Amy Thursday, Jan 29, 09 @ 4:18 pm
Time, Rickey. Let’s stick to the issue.
Comment by Nearly Normal Thursday, Jan 29, 09 @ 4:19 pm
in regards to that Tribune quote,
“. . .you won’t have GRod to kick around anymore.”
Comment by tubbfan Thursday, Jan 29, 09 @ 4:20 pm
06-
I’ve seen it mentioned here numerous times, and it seems realistic given the way this state has been run for the last 5-10 years, that Emil Jones would never have let impeachment happen. (One of the main reasons I voted for the CC, BTW.)
The last 2 months may turn out to be the most significant in Illinois’ history if our leaders take what they are saying seriously about what has occurred. It may have taken extra time, but here we are.
Comment by Lefty Lefty Thursday, Jan 29, 09 @ 4:20 pm
Senator Hendon, Presiudent Obama did just fine turning down public financing.
Comment by paddyrollingstone Thursday, Jan 29, 09 @ 4:20 pm
so Ricky is voting yes on impeachment. and promises to bring this up when he asks Senators to vote yes on recall, filling vacancies, in other words, being consistent in his mind. oh, the shouting.
Comment by Amy Thursday, Jan 29, 09 @ 4:21 pm
Paddy…
So did McCain in the primaries.
Comment by Rob_N Thursday, Jan 29, 09 @ 4:26 pm
Watson is 110% correct…anyone who was around GRod and heard things and did not speak up, try to get the Gov. to do things differently, should be ashamed. the role of staff in government is often simply looked at as a civil service, vs. political appointment. whatever the route to the job, ethics, ethics, ethics. will things be different now?
Comment by Amy Thursday, Jan 29, 09 @ 4:27 pm
Senator Watson, You make me want to turn Republican. Great speech, you’re looking good!
Comment by anon Thursday, Jan 29, 09 @ 4:29 pm
Sen. Radogno says she’s next to last….
I agree w/ her on the decorum re what Senators have said in their comments.
Vote may be soon.
Comment by Rob_N Thursday, Jan 29, 09 @ 4:29 pm
I am a Democrat. But when Rod Blagojevich and Rickey Hendon are standing for my party and Frank Watson for the other, it’s embarrassing to be a Democrat. Kudos to Senator Watson for his moving remarks today.
Comment by Reality Check Thursday, Jan 29, 09 @ 4:30 pm
Dang it! I can’t help being a Frank Watson fan.
Comment by Fan of the Game Thursday, Jan 29, 09 @ 4:30 pm
Amy, if you were one who did speak out/up, you were told that you were not being a “team player”, and moved out of the way or out of the job. And, many were…
Comment by Anonymous Thursday, Jan 29, 09 @ 4:32 pm
Please tell me I haven’t missed Forby!
Comment by 4B Thursday, Jan 29, 09 @ 4:32 pm
Hmmm…..I think Hendon’s speech was one of the few speeches with some guts. Wow.
Comment by Disappointed by speeches Thursday, Jan 29, 09 @ 4:33 pm
I really liked Hendon’s speech - recall may come alive again.
Comment by 4B Thursday, Jan 29, 09 @ 4:34 pm
Any bets if Rod is issuing a pardon for Rob and others right now?
Comment by OneMan Thursday, Jan 29, 09 @ 4:35 pm
The moment we have all been waiting for.
Comment by Say WHAT? Thursday, Jan 29, 09 @ 4:36 pm
The Senator from the 59th District chose not to speak or to step up to the grave with a shovel and cast his dirt on the grave.
Comment by Southern Illinois Thursday, Jan 29, 09 @ 4:37 pm
Here comes the historic vote. Roll call.
Comment by Nearly Normal Thursday, Jan 29, 09 @ 4:38 pm
so it shall pass…
59-0
Comment by curoius george Thursday, Jan 29, 09 @ 4:38 pm
I love Gary! Haha!
Comment by 4B Thursday, Jan 29, 09 @ 4:40 pm
I would encourage all of the vocal crowd baying for Rod’s head to be a bit respectful as it falls. This is nothing to celebrate.
Comment by chiatty Thursday, Jan 29, 09 @ 4:42 pm
hes gone
Comment by How Ironic Thursday, Jan 29, 09 @ 4:43 pm
Unanimous. Amazing.
Comment by Nearly Normal Thursday, Jan 29, 09 @ 4:44 pm
Governor Quinn!
Comment by Go Illini Thursday, Jan 29, 09 @ 4:46 pm
OneMan,
A governor cannot issue a pardon for a Federal crime
Comment by Rob_N Thursday, Jan 29, 09 @ 4:46 pm
the now former gov. is a joke. but, the rest of the Democratic party should make sure to shape up. you won’t have rod to kick around anymore, you won’t have that as an excuse. as a democrat i feel a sense of shame that rod was a democrat and ousted. i never want to feel this way again.
Comment by Amy Thursday, Jan 29, 09 @ 4:48 pm
What’s happening now? Lots of chatter but can’t tell what’s going on.
Comment by Rob_N Thursday, Jan 29, 09 @ 4:49 pm
IIS vid feed just died.
Comment by Rob_N Thursday, Jan 29, 09 @ 4:55 pm
It’s done 59-0.
Comment by this voter will remember Thursday, Jan 29, 09 @ 5:00 pm
Goose Egg. State website still has Blagojevich on banner. One measure of Quinn’s efficiency would be to see how quickly it comes down.
Comment by IDOT'er Thursday, Jan 29, 09 @ 5:02 pm
Hendon argued, articulately, for 1) recall 2) public financing of elections 3) special elections for all appointments.
No one else is offering to come out and take a stand for good government. I think Hendon has come out of this making some good points and being perfectly reasonable. Everyone else is grandstanding and babbling about how sad they are…
Comment by Laurie Thursday, Jan 29, 09 @ 5:03 pm
I am curious, What did Sen. Gary Forby have to say?
Comment by thunder1 Thursday, Jan 29, 09 @ 5:23 pm
MANY KUDOS to you, Rich, and for the contributers who have opined here over the last few days. I’m new to this website, and picked a momentous time in history to hop aboard. Great site with a lot of insight. Thanks again.
Comment by SpfldJimbo Thursday, Jan 29, 09 @ 5:24 pm
I thought Nolands comments were outstanding…
Comment by Loop Lady Thursday, Jan 29, 09 @ 5:39 pm
on the other hand, Ricky Hendon is a disgrace…
Comment by Loop Lady Thursday, Jan 29, 09 @ 5:42 pm
Hendon and Meeks. How embarrasing! And whats sad..they and their constituency dont even know it
Comment by TC Thursday, Jan 29, 09 @ 5:52 pm
Clayborne hit it out of the park! Why didn’t any of his national media interviewers ask such questions. Oh yeah it wa the national media! Great job, Senator Clayborne.
Comment by Nuance Thursday, Jan 29, 09 @ 7:42 pm