I have a guest blogger today who does a great job over at Kharma Futures. Here, Rev. Kharma examines the nature of the corrupt Chicago Political Machine and its tendency to infect everyone who touches it.
Lie Down with Dogs, Get Up with Fleas
Posted by revkharma on February 19, 2009
Let’s take a quick walk around the cesspool known as Chicago Style Politics. We don’t even need to go to the roots of the Daley machine. To get a feel of how things can become totally corrupted, we can look at just a couple of offices in the Illinois congressional delegation. Remember Dan Rostenkowski. a loud, pushy congressman from Illinois who was eventually indicted and convicted for fraud in relation to the House Post Office corruption scam. After he went to jail (incidentally keeping his deluxe House of Representatives pension) his seat was filled by a place holder then was filled by none other than Rod Blagojevich. Rod went back to the Land of Lincoln, where he tried to sell the US senate seat vacated by the Great and Powerful Obama. He eventually appointed Roland Burris. Now Burris is being investigated for perjury, as it appears he was less than candid when testifying before Blago’s impeachment committee. He somehow forgot that he had several conversations with the Gov’s brother about rounding up some cash for ‘campaign funds’. Seems his memory was refreshed when it looks as if the FBI has tapes of the conversations.
Loop back again.. Blagojevic was succeeded by Rahm Emanuel. He of the ‘ take advantage of a crisis’ fame. A fierce fighter, he is reputed to be a vicious bully witha long memory and longer reach for revenge.
Blago has long standing ties to Tony Rezko, A felon convicted on corruption charges. Rezko bundled millions of dollars of contributions for Blagojevich, and many of his associates later found jobs in state government. Rezko also has long standing ties to The Great and Powerful Obama. There has still never been any in depth look at the connection, but one look at the real estate deal that resulted to Obama owning the lot adjacent to Rezko will show just how easily corruption can be swept under the rug.
So, let’s look here, Rostenkowski, Burris, Blagojevich, Emanuel, Obama. All these dogs seem to lie in the same pen, and my guess is that all of them share the same fleas. I just want to know why no one seems willing to do something about the fleas jumping all about the Great and Powerful Obama.
He has surrounded himself for years with many corrupt people. One look at the fiasco that is his cabinet will clue anyone in. How many people either stepped down or withdrew nominations because of corrupt practices? Even his Treasury Secretary admitted to non payment of his taxes, but the Great O managed to slip him in anyway. Just how long will his dishonesty and outright corruption go unremarked in the media?
Keep the Faith
The Rev
Showing posts with label Governor Rod Blagojevich. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Governor Rod Blagojevich. Show all posts
Thursday, February 19, 2009
Burris Plays the Chicago Game Quite Well
He lied to Congress. He lied to the public in news conferences and interviews. And now Roland Burris, Obama's Senate replacement, has admitted he didn't tell the truth about his fundraising activity for disgraced Illinois Governor Rod Blagojevich.
During hearings before Congress, Burris stated that he had no knowledge about any attempt by the former Governor to sell Obama's Senate seat to the highest bidder, or give favors in exchange for funds or fundraising.
But this week Burris admitted that he was asked by Blagojevich or someone close to him to do some fundraising for the Governor, and Burris says he had agreed to do so.
Then, suddenly, Burris finds himself appointed by Blago to the vacant Senate seat.
It is vital to remember at this point that Obama, Blagojevich, Burris, and Rahm Emanuel are all schooled in the infamous dirty politics of the Chicago political machine. So far Burris has played the Chicago game quite well in that despite his slippery manner of describing his dealings with Blago, he still sits in Obama's former Senate seat without any serious attempt to oust him.
The problem with Burris' words, however, is that he keeps changing his story on several key issues. Is it so difficult to remember one's contacts and conversations with the Governor on a matter of extreme importance such as fundraising and an empty Senate seat?
It could be that the problem is that Burris remembers all too well. And this, perhaps, causes him to 'trip over his words.'
During hearings before Congress, Burris stated that he had no knowledge about any attempt by the former Governor to sell Obama's Senate seat to the highest bidder, or give favors in exchange for funds or fundraising.
But this week Burris admitted that he was asked by Blagojevich or someone close to him to do some fundraising for the Governor, and Burris says he had agreed to do so.
Then, suddenly, Burris finds himself appointed by Blago to the vacant Senate seat.
It is vital to remember at this point that Obama, Blagojevich, Burris, and Rahm Emanuel are all schooled in the infamous dirty politics of the Chicago political machine. So far Burris has played the Chicago game quite well in that despite his slippery manner of describing his dealings with Blago, he still sits in Obama's former Senate seat without any serious attempt to oust him.
The problem with Burris' words, however, is that he keeps changing his story on several key issues. Is it so difficult to remember one's contacts and conversations with the Governor on a matter of extreme importance such as fundraising and an empty Senate seat?
It could be that the problem is that Burris remembers all too well. And this, perhaps, causes him to 'trip over his words.'
Friday, January 30, 2009
Blago
Now that the Illinois Senate has voted to impeach and remove from office Governor Rod Blagojevich, it will be interesting to see what move federal prosecutor Patrick Fitzgerald makes.
Fitzgerald has been slow to bring a formal indictment against Blago, although he has been charged with attempting to sell Barack Obama's former Senate seat to the highest bidder.
Certain select excerpts from secret surveillance tapes of Blago were played at the impeachment hearings, and they are very damaging. We are told that there is much more damaging information that has not been disclosed.
But this remains to be seen unless and until Fitzgerald brings a formal indictment and all of the tapes are played at trial.
The national significance of this trial cannot be overstated. At issue will be Blago's connections, if any, with Rahm Emanuel and Obama staffers concerning filling the vacant Senate seat.
Even the President himself could be called as a witness.
Fitzgerald has been slow to bring a formal indictment against Blago, although he has been charged with attempting to sell Barack Obama's former Senate seat to the highest bidder.
Certain select excerpts from secret surveillance tapes of Blago were played at the impeachment hearings, and they are very damaging. We are told that there is much more damaging information that has not been disclosed.
But this remains to be seen unless and until Fitzgerald brings a formal indictment and all of the tapes are played at trial.
The national significance of this trial cannot be overstated. At issue will be Blago's connections, if any, with Rahm Emanuel and Obama staffers concerning filling the vacant Senate seat.
Even the President himself could be called as a witness.
Wednesday, January 07, 2009
D.C. Rumors: A Deal in the Works for Burris
Rumors are swirling around Washington that Senate Democrats are considering a deal that would allow Roland Burris to take Obama's vacated Senate seat.
Reportedly, Burris will be allowed to take the seat on 2 conditions.
First, the Illinois legislature must proceed with the impeachment of Governor Rod Blagojevich, who appointed Burris although he is under federal indictment for attempting to sell Obama's Senate seat to the highest bidder.
And second, Burris must promise that he will only serve out the remainder of Obama's Senate term and not become a candidate for the seat during the next election.
Senate Democrats believe that Burris would be a weak candidate against Republican opposition.
Thus, the truth comes out. Despite all the moralizing on the part of Democrats concerning 'a tainted appointment by a tainted Governor,' it all boils down to pure politics, i.e., how to keep a Republican out of the seat now, and who would be the strongest candidate to oppose a Republican in 2010.
Reportedly, Burris will be allowed to take the seat on 2 conditions.
First, the Illinois legislature must proceed with the impeachment of Governor Rod Blagojevich, who appointed Burris although he is under federal indictment for attempting to sell Obama's Senate seat to the highest bidder.
And second, Burris must promise that he will only serve out the remainder of Obama's Senate term and not become a candidate for the seat during the next election.
Senate Democrats believe that Burris would be a weak candidate against Republican opposition.
Thus, the truth comes out. Despite all the moralizing on the part of Democrats concerning 'a tainted appointment by a tainted Governor,' it all boils down to pure politics, i.e., how to keep a Republican out of the seat now, and who would be the strongest candidate to oppose a Republican in 2010.
Wednesday, December 31, 2008
Legal Issues in Blago Appointment of Burris
Legal issues involved in Governor Rod Blagojevich's appointment of former Illinois Attorney-General Roland Burris to fill Obama's vacant Senate seat may prevent Senate Democrats from doing anything to stop it.
The Democratic Caucus of the U.S. Senate has stated that it would refuse to allow Burris to become a member of Congress due to the scandal surrounding Blagojevich's alleged scheme to sell the Senate seat to the highest bidder.
Barack Obama agrees.
But according to Eugene Volokh at The Volokh Conspiracy, legal precedent established by cases such as Powell v. McCormack would prevent a court from ruling in favor of blocking Burris, should that action be challenged in the judicial system.
Under normal circumstances I would agree. But this case is different in that the Governor who is making the appointment is under a federal indictment for attempting to sell that very Senate seat to the highest bidder.
The fact that Burris himself may not be corrupt or that Blagojevich is not engaging in corruption for making this particular appointment is beside the point. The point is that Blagojevich's involvement in possible federal crimes having to do with that very Senate seat should automatically disqualify him from making the appointment.
The Democratic Caucus of the U.S. Senate has stated that it would refuse to allow Burris to become a member of Congress due to the scandal surrounding Blagojevich's alleged scheme to sell the Senate seat to the highest bidder.
Barack Obama agrees.
But according to Eugene Volokh at The Volokh Conspiracy, legal precedent established by cases such as Powell v. McCormack would prevent a court from ruling in favor of blocking Burris, should that action be challenged in the judicial system.
Under normal circumstances I would agree. But this case is different in that the Governor who is making the appointment is under a federal indictment for attempting to sell that very Senate seat to the highest bidder.
The fact that Burris himself may not be corrupt or that Blagojevich is not engaging in corruption for making this particular appointment is beside the point. The point is that Blagojevich's involvement in possible federal crimes having to do with that very Senate seat should automatically disqualify him from making the appointment.
Tuesday, December 30, 2008
OUTRAGE! Blago Names Obama's Senate Replacement
In an act of brazenness on a scale that has rarely been seen in the history of U.S. politics, the scandal-ridden Governor of Illinois, Rod Blagojevich, has named a successor to fill Obama's vacant Senate seat.
Blago's choice, which was announced at a news conference late this afternoon in Chicago, is former Illinois Attorney-General Roland Burress, who contributed heavily to Blago and Obama-Biden.
Senate Democrats, to their credit, repeated their intention to refuse to seat anyone Blago appoints to the seat, which is their Constitutional privilege.
The appointment stunned political observers, particularly since Blago himself stated 2 weeks ago that he would not make such an appointment while he is under federal investigation.
Fox News has the complete story, including reaction from Illinois legislators, here.
Blago's choice, which was announced at a news conference late this afternoon in Chicago, is former Illinois Attorney-General Roland Burress, who contributed heavily to Blago and Obama-Biden.
Senate Democrats, to their credit, repeated their intention to refuse to seat anyone Blago appoints to the seat, which is their Constitutional privilege.
The appointment stunned political observers, particularly since Blago himself stated 2 weeks ago that he would not make such an appointment while he is under federal investigation.
Fox News has the complete story, including reaction from Illinois legislators, here.
Second Amendment News Roundup for 12/30/08
Focusing on guns, politics, and news of interest, here is today's Second Amendment News Roundup:
Western Rifle Shooters Association reports that the effort to block Holder from becoming Obama's Attorney-General is now in full swing. It's time for all of us to get involved. Western provides sample letters, who to contact, and how. It's today's MUST-read.
Jews for the Preservation of Firearms Ownership has issued an alert entitled, 'Gun Control equals People Control.'
Days of Our Trailers provides brief, pithy, and I believe accurate commentary on the notion of the imminent breakup of the United States.
Insight on Freedom asks 'Why Does So Much of the World Hate Jews?' The writer correctly observes that little has changed since Adolf Hitler's Holocaust against them.
Dr. John Lott has another horror story from socialized medicine, this time in Great Britain.
Traction Control posts info on the North Texas Trinity River Shoot coming up on Jan. 2.
Tam comments on a case of justifiable homicide with a gun, which happened in Tennessee.
Robb Allen says that someone needs to lose a few pounds. And I would respond by saying that Robb needs to mind his own business! Oh, he means that 'thing' and not me. I can't tell if that thing is a hamster or a beaver.
John Jacob H points to a concealed carry database. You can find out whether or not your elected and public officials carry. Funny how some of the most anti-gun bigots in the world of politics carry guns themselves.
Ride Fast and Shoot Straight reports that many local shooting ranges have banned 'assault weapons,' although as of now they are still legal.
Ahab posts the info on tonight's edition of Gun Nuts Radio, and it promises to be a New Year's blowout.
Gun Pundit points to an interesting story of a bystander who shot a robber in a mall parking lot.
Armed and Safe is back after a lengthy absence, I am glad to say. Welcome back to blogging, Kurt!
Armed and Safe also found a piece written by an obvious jackass, who said that the Founders made a mistake by putting the 2nd Amendment in the Constitution.
Sebastian found the story of a Smith & Wesson that simply blew up when fired.
Say Uncle has the absolute MUST-read quote of the day, and he wrote it himself. This says it all.
Nicki reports on the latest rabble-rousing of the guy in California who seems to have a neurotic hatred of all things religious.
ARRA News Service publishes Dr. Walter Williams' latest column on global warming. Williams is one of the most astute minds in the nation today. Read it all.
Live From the Upper Texas Gulf Coast has a good read, entitled 'Who Are the Violent Ones, Again?'
The Smallest Minority comments on several items of interest to the gun rights community. It is well worth your time to read it.
Codrea's War on Guns reports the explosive news that Illinois Governor Rod Blagojevich is going to appoint a Senator to fill Obama's vacant seat TODAY, in spite of the fact that he is up to his eyeballs in a federal corruption scandal.
Gun Rights Examiner: 'A Lucky Lady' by David Codrea.
Western Rifle Shooters Association reports that the effort to block Holder from becoming Obama's Attorney-General is now in full swing. It's time for all of us to get involved. Western provides sample letters, who to contact, and how. It's today's MUST-read.
Jews for the Preservation of Firearms Ownership has issued an alert entitled, 'Gun Control equals People Control.'
Days of Our Trailers provides brief, pithy, and I believe accurate commentary on the notion of the imminent breakup of the United States.
Insight on Freedom asks 'Why Does So Much of the World Hate Jews?' The writer correctly observes that little has changed since Adolf Hitler's Holocaust against them.
Dr. John Lott has another horror story from socialized medicine, this time in Great Britain.
Traction Control posts info on the North Texas Trinity River Shoot coming up on Jan. 2.
Tam comments on a case of justifiable homicide with a gun, which happened in Tennessee.
Robb Allen says that someone needs to lose a few pounds. And I would respond by saying that Robb needs to mind his own business! Oh, he means that 'thing' and not me. I can't tell if that thing is a hamster or a beaver.
John Jacob H points to a concealed carry database. You can find out whether or not your elected and public officials carry. Funny how some of the most anti-gun bigots in the world of politics carry guns themselves.
Ride Fast and Shoot Straight reports that many local shooting ranges have banned 'assault weapons,' although as of now they are still legal.
Ahab posts the info on tonight's edition of Gun Nuts Radio, and it promises to be a New Year's blowout.
Gun Pundit points to an interesting story of a bystander who shot a robber in a mall parking lot.
Armed and Safe is back after a lengthy absence, I am glad to say. Welcome back to blogging, Kurt!
Armed and Safe also found a piece written by an obvious jackass, who said that the Founders made a mistake by putting the 2nd Amendment in the Constitution.
Sebastian found the story of a Smith & Wesson that simply blew up when fired.
Say Uncle has the absolute MUST-read quote of the day, and he wrote it himself. This says it all.
Nicki reports on the latest rabble-rousing of the guy in California who seems to have a neurotic hatred of all things religious.
ARRA News Service publishes Dr. Walter Williams' latest column on global warming. Williams is one of the most astute minds in the nation today. Read it all.
Live From the Upper Texas Gulf Coast has a good read, entitled 'Who Are the Violent Ones, Again?'
The Smallest Minority comments on several items of interest to the gun rights community. It is well worth your time to read it.
Codrea's War on Guns reports the explosive news that Illinois Governor Rod Blagojevich is going to appoint a Senator to fill Obama's vacant seat TODAY, in spite of the fact that he is up to his eyeballs in a federal corruption scandal.
Gun Rights Examiner: 'A Lucky Lady' by David Codrea.
Monday, December 29, 2008
Breaking: Feds File to Release Secret Blago Tapes
Federal prosecutor Patrick Fitzgerald has been sitting on surveillance tapes of scandal-ridden Illinois Governor Rod Blagojevich. On Monday, Fitzgerald made a motion to release the tapes.
The question, however, is whether or not the particular tapes to be released contain conversations between Blago and advisors to Barack Obama.
The news story at the link above does not address that issue.
The question, however, is whether or not the particular tapes to be released contain conversations between Blago and advisors to Barack Obama.
The news story at the link above does not address that issue.
Friday, December 26, 2008
Obama Mansion Owned by Tony Rezko's Lawyer!
While most Americans were celebrating Christmas or Chanukah with friends and family, a news story was published that so far has received very little attention. Yet its substance is of draconian significance.
The infamous Chicago mansion supposedly owned by Barack Obama (with the help of corrupt real estate mogul Tony Rezko) is actually owned by Rezko's attorney.
According to records obtained by World Net Daily, the million-dollar mansion in which Obama and his family live is owned by attorney William Miceli of the Chicago law firm Miner, Barnhill, and Galland, which was Obama's former employer.
In addition, the tax bill for the Obama property is mailed to Miceli and not Obama:
The other piece of intriguing information obtained by WND is that since placing Illinois Governor Rod Blaojevich under investigation for corruption, federal prosecutor Patrick Fitzgerald has taken a renewed interest in the connection between Tony Rezko and Barack Obama.
The infamous Chicago mansion supposedly owned by Barack Obama (with the help of corrupt real estate mogul Tony Rezko) is actually owned by Rezko's attorney.
According to records obtained by World Net Daily, the million-dollar mansion in which Obama and his family live is owned by attorney William Miceli of the Chicago law firm Miner, Barnhill, and Galland, which was Obama's former employer.
In addition, the tax bill for the Obama property is mailed to Miceli and not Obama:
WND confirmed the tax bill for the Obama home is mailed to Miceli, not to Obama or the Northern Trust account through which Obama has claimed the home was purchased.
Records from the Cook County Treasurer's Office give the PIN number for the Obama property as 20-11-115-037-0000 and list Miceli as the person who receives Obama's property tax invoice by mail.
Eric Herman, a spokesman for the Cook County assessor, confirmed to WND that the Treasurer's Office records were correct and that Miceli did receive the Obama property tax invoice by mail.
Miceli did not return a call WND placed to him at Miner, Barnhill & Galland
The other piece of intriguing information obtained by WND is that since placing Illinois Governor Rod Blaojevich under investigation for corruption, federal prosecutor Patrick Fitzgerald has taken a renewed interest in the connection between Tony Rezko and Barack Obama.
Monday, December 22, 2008
He Said, He Said, They Said
I notice that a report at ABC News claims that Obama chief of staff Rahm Emanuel supposedly made only one call to corrupt Illinois Governor Rod Blagojevich, and even then the call had nothing to do with Obama's vacant Senate seat.
Blago, on the other hand, claims through his aids that he regularly took calls from Emanuel.
Looks like a clear case of he said, he said.
Except for one small consideration.
They said, that is, the FBI, that surveillance tapes reveal at least 21 conversations between the 2 concerning the vacant Senate seat and other political matters.
If these tapes do, in fact, exist, then perhaps the only thing that will matter is the content of the tapes. This will determine if a clear connection can be established between Blago's attempt to sell the Senate seat and the Obama team.
Blago, on the other hand, claims through his aids that he regularly took calls from Emanuel.
Looks like a clear case of he said, he said.
Except for one small consideration.
They said, that is, the FBI, that surveillance tapes reveal at least 21 conversations between the 2 concerning the vacant Senate seat and other political matters.
If these tapes do, in fact, exist, then perhaps the only thing that will matter is the content of the tapes. This will determine if a clear connection can be established between Blago's attempt to sell the Senate seat and the Obama team.
Thursday, December 18, 2008
Blago Won't Choose Obama's Senate Replacement
At least Senate Democrats have retained at least one tiny thimbleful of scruples. Embattled Illinois Governor Rod Blagojevich has been informed that Senate Democrats will not seat anyone that the Governor appoints to Barack Obama's vacant seat.
So, that's that. According to Blago's attorney, there won't be any use in his client making an appointment.
Good!
So, that's that. According to Blago's attorney, there won't be any use in his client making an appointment.
Good!
Saturday, December 13, 2008
Blago-Scandal May 'Ruin Obama's Inauguration'
Like the gradual creep of a sinkhole that just keeps engulfing more and more homes and vehicles as it goes along, the scandal involving Illinois Governor Rod Blaogjevich inches along, now threatening to engulf Obama along with it.
Word has come today that the Feds have secret surveillance tapes directly implicating Obama chief of staff Rahm Emanuel.
We know now that Obama lied when he claimed neither he nor his staff had anything to do with his replacement in the U.S. Senate.
Meanwhile, in Chicago, the reason the Illinois Attorney-General moved to strip Blogojevich of his powers is in order to avoid a public impeachment process, during which even more names could surface who are involved in the scandal--including the Attorney-General herself, who was a possible candidate for Obama's Senate seat!
One reporter stated that this still-developing story of the unraveling of Chicago political corruption would eventually 'ruin Obama's inauguration.'
Two reports are of utmost importance:
Obama's Credibility is Now Sunk
The Madigan Factor--More Corruption in Chicago
Word has come today that the Feds have secret surveillance tapes directly implicating Obama chief of staff Rahm Emanuel.
We know now that Obama lied when he claimed neither he nor his staff had anything to do with his replacement in the U.S. Senate.
Meanwhile, in Chicago, the reason the Illinois Attorney-General moved to strip Blogojevich of his powers is in order to avoid a public impeachment process, during which even more names could surface who are involved in the scandal--including the Attorney-General herself, who was a possible candidate for Obama's Senate seat!
One reporter stated that this still-developing story of the unraveling of Chicago political corruption would eventually 'ruin Obama's inauguration.'
Two reports are of utmost importance:
Obama's Credibility is Now Sunk
The Madigan Factor--More Corruption in Chicago
Friday, December 12, 2008
A Bad Case of Lockjaw
In refusing to answer reporters' questions concerning the Blago-scandal in Illinois, Obama chief of staff Rahm Emanuel epitomized the tactic the Obama team will use in the midst of this mess--a bad case of lockjaw.
'Stonewalling' is what they called it during the Nixon Watergate scandal back in the early 70s.
According to the Chicago Sun-Times:
Although there is no evidence as of yet implicating Obama or any member of his team in the scandal, the discrepancies in the stories provided by the Obama team, along with increasing suspicions concerning Emanuel's possible involvement, are creating new questions every day.
'Stonewalling' is what they called it during the Nixon Watergate scandal back in the early 70s.
According to the Chicago Sun-Times:
President-elect Barack Obama’s chief of staff, Rahm Emanuel, refused to take questions from reporters this morning about whether he was the Obama “advisor” named in the criminal complaint against Gov. Rod Blagojevich.
The complaint states Blagojevich wanted a promise of a high-level appointment or some other reward for Blagojevich in exchange for Blagojevich naming Obama’s friend Valerie Jarrett to replace him in the U.S. Senate.
Emanuel was uncharacteristically absent from Obama’s news conference this morning.
Although there is no evidence as of yet implicating Obama or any member of his team in the scandal, the discrepancies in the stories provided by the Obama team, along with increasing suspicions concerning Emanuel's possible involvement, are creating new questions every day.
Blago-Scandal a Who's Who of Illinois Politics
The list of persons caught in the ever-widening web of corruption that nabbed Illinois Governor Rod Blagojevich reads like a who's who of Illinois politics.
A special report from Fox News indicates that well-known names such as Jessie Jackson, Jr., Obama land-deal tycoon Tony Rezko, as well as the Chicago Cubs, are implicated in the probe.
The depth and breadth of the scandal led one investigator to muse that if Illinois is not the most corrupt state in the Union, it comes mighty close.
A special report from Fox News indicates that well-known names such as Jessie Jackson, Jr., Obama land-deal tycoon Tony Rezko, as well as the Chicago Cubs, are implicated in the probe.
The depth and breadth of the scandal led one investigator to muse that if Illinois is not the most corrupt state in the Union, it comes mighty close.
Blagojevich Refuses to Go
With an arrogance and an elitism that defies all reason, disgraced Illinois Governor Rod Blagojevich remains defiant, stating that he will not resign from office despite the federal corruption charges against him.
Blagojevich also hinted that he may yet decide to go ahead and appoint someone to fill Barack Obama's Senate seat, even while under fire from the feds and the Illinois citizens.
A poll taken on Thursday in Illinois shows Blagojevich with only an 8% approval rating.
The Illinois legislature is considering alternative means of filling the Senate seat, such as holding a special election.
The Democratic majority in the U.S. Senate, however, prefers another method. They fear that the rage from the public over the widespread corruption in Illinois politics will lead voters to take out their wrath on Democrats and elect a Republican to fill Obama's seat.
The Senate Democrats' preferred plan is for Blagojevich to resign and a new Governor appoint someone to the seat. Naturally, this plan would favor Democrats and is nothing but sheer political expediency.
Senate Democrats, to their credit, stated that if Blagojevich appoints someone to the seat, they will vote to refuse to seat that person--a Constitutional provision that allows the Senate to make such a move in unusual circumstances.
Blagojevich also hinted that he may yet decide to go ahead and appoint someone to fill Barack Obama's Senate seat, even while under fire from the feds and the Illinois citizens.
A poll taken on Thursday in Illinois shows Blagojevich with only an 8% approval rating.
The Illinois legislature is considering alternative means of filling the Senate seat, such as holding a special election.
The Democratic majority in the U.S. Senate, however, prefers another method. They fear that the rage from the public over the widespread corruption in Illinois politics will lead voters to take out their wrath on Democrats and elect a Republican to fill Obama's seat.
The Senate Democrats' preferred plan is for Blagojevich to resign and a new Governor appoint someone to the seat. Naturally, this plan would favor Democrats and is nothing but sheer political expediency.
Senate Democrats, to their credit, stated that if Blagojevich appoints someone to the seat, they will vote to refuse to seat that person--a Constitutional provision that allows the Senate to make such a move in unusual circumstances.
Thursday, December 11, 2008
Why Did Fitzgerald Act Now on Blagojevich?
Why, in the middle of an ongoing investigation into massive and widespread political corruption in Illinois, did federal prosecutor Patrick Fitzgerald decide to act now to arrest Governor Blagojevich?
This is the key question that National Review's Byron York asks and answers in his latest column.
UPDATE! We now know that Jessie Jackson, Jr. is 'Senate Prospect #5'--a fact of which York was unaware when writing the article. Read the article to find out why this is key to the scandal.
This is the key question that National Review's Byron York asks and answers in his latest column.
UPDATE! We now know that Jessie Jackson, Jr. is 'Senate Prospect #5'--a fact of which York was unaware when writing the article. Read the article to find out why this is key to the scandal.
Wednesday, December 10, 2008
Second Amendment News Roundup for 12/10/08
Focusing on guns, politics, and news of interest, here is today's Second Amendment News Roundup:
Nicki at the Liberty Zone comments on the Blagojevich corruption scandal in Illinois.
Traction Control is presently in a place where it is only -17F. A warm day in these days of 'global warming.'
Pax Parabellum reports that Governor Blagojevich was a gun owner, although he is one of the most rabid anti-gun politicians in the country. But not anymore. He's been ordered to turn in his permit.
Mike McCarville reminds us that although the Blagojevich scandal reaches deep, there is no indication or evidence linking Barack Obama to it in any way.
From Michelle Malkin:
*The Obama camp has called for Blagojevich to resign
*5 Republicans are ready to filibuster the auto bailout
*The final details of the auto bailout bill, vote may be Sat.
Texas Fred has an excellent post on the bailout. Be sure to see the graphic.
Breda posts the audio from last night's edition of Gun Nuts Radio.
Insight on Freedom has the MUST-read of the day on socialized medicine and how this monstrosity will probably cost the chronically ill their lives. You MUST read this!
The Rustmeister comments on the 'percenters' and makes a good point about his line in the sand.
Xrlq provides excellent reading on 'guns, medicine, and selective mission creep.'
The Sipsey Street Irregulars issue a 'raid alert' for Michigan. Interesting!
Codrea's War on Guns has ominous news from Nassau County, New York. Don't be surprised if the next infringement is in the realm of requiring potential gun owners to verify they are not on tranquilizers, antidepressants, or even narcotic sleep medications.
Gun Rights Examiner posts Codrea's column for today entitled, 'You Got to Protect Yourself.'
Western Rifle Shooters Association shares words of wisdom from the great Colonel Jeff Cooper.
Mindful Musings presents a sobering but essential read entitled, 'Are You Ready?'
JR says that the Houston Chronicle has taken aim at gun rights in Texas.
Roberta X provides an excellent read on government and lines in the sand. And I agree with her about government. If it's big enough to do everything for you, it's big enough to take everything you have away from you (my interpretation of her words).
Gateway Pundit reports that despite his denials, Obama met with Blagojevich on Nov. 5 to discuss his Senate seat.
Sebastian posts an interesting read entitled, 'Republican Revolutions.'
Robb Allen observes that often foreign-born American citizens understand freedom better than we do.
Catching up with Squeaks. Just go over there and start scrolling.
Nicki at the Liberty Zone comments on the Blagojevich corruption scandal in Illinois.
Traction Control is presently in a place where it is only -17F. A warm day in these days of 'global warming.'
Pax Parabellum reports that Governor Blagojevich was a gun owner, although he is one of the most rabid anti-gun politicians in the country. But not anymore. He's been ordered to turn in his permit.
Mike McCarville reminds us that although the Blagojevich scandal reaches deep, there is no indication or evidence linking Barack Obama to it in any way.
From Michelle Malkin:
*The Obama camp has called for Blagojevich to resign
*5 Republicans are ready to filibuster the auto bailout
*The final details of the auto bailout bill, vote may be Sat.
Texas Fred has an excellent post on the bailout. Be sure to see the graphic.
Breda posts the audio from last night's edition of Gun Nuts Radio.
Insight on Freedom has the MUST-read of the day on socialized medicine and how this monstrosity will probably cost the chronically ill their lives. You MUST read this!
The Rustmeister comments on the 'percenters' and makes a good point about his line in the sand.
Xrlq provides excellent reading on 'guns, medicine, and selective mission creep.'
The Sipsey Street Irregulars issue a 'raid alert' for Michigan. Interesting!
Codrea's War on Guns has ominous news from Nassau County, New York. Don't be surprised if the next infringement is in the realm of requiring potential gun owners to verify they are not on tranquilizers, antidepressants, or even narcotic sleep medications.
Gun Rights Examiner posts Codrea's column for today entitled, 'You Got to Protect Yourself.'
Western Rifle Shooters Association shares words of wisdom from the great Colonel Jeff Cooper.
Mindful Musings presents a sobering but essential read entitled, 'Are You Ready?'
JR says that the Houston Chronicle has taken aim at gun rights in Texas.
Roberta X provides an excellent read on government and lines in the sand. And I agree with her about government. If it's big enough to do everything for you, it's big enough to take everything you have away from you (my interpretation of her words).
Gateway Pundit reports that despite his denials, Obama met with Blagojevich on Nov. 5 to discuss his Senate seat.
Sebastian posts an interesting read entitled, 'Republican Revolutions.'
Robb Allen observes that often foreign-born American citizens understand freedom better than we do.
Catching up with Squeaks. Just go over there and start scrolling.
Obama Spin-Doctors Can't Keep Story Straight
In the wake of the massive corruption scandal that has erupted with the arrest of Illinois Governor Rod Blagojevich, Barack Obama and his spin doctors went to work to distance themselves from any appearance of impropriety.
The problem is that neither Obama nor his spin-doctors can keep their stories straight.
Early in the day on Tuesday, Obama told reporters he knew nothing of Blagojevich's plan to sell his Senate seat and that, in fact, he had not talked to the Governor at all about his replacement in the Senate.
However, Obama's senior advisor David Axelrod had already told reporters that Obama had talked with Blagojevich at length about possible replacements.
In a televised interview on November 23, Axelrod told reporters that he knew Obama had talked to the Governor and that a whole range of names had been discussed (video of the interview included in the link).
Within a strikingly short period of time, however, Obama advisers had issued a statement disputing Axelrod's assertions, claiming that the senior advisor 'misspoke.'
Later in the day reports surfaced that according to Illinois law, Blagojevich could appoint someone to the vacant Senate seat, even from a jail cell.
This prospect, plus the fact that Blagojevich has stated that he himself is interested in Obama's vacated Senate seat, has led to a move by Illinois lawmakers to call for a special election to choose Obama's replacement.
Such a move would be the only prudent thing to do, given the stunning level of corruption that has come to light.
The problem is that neither Obama nor his spin-doctors can keep their stories straight.
Early in the day on Tuesday, Obama told reporters he knew nothing of Blagojevich's plan to sell his Senate seat and that, in fact, he had not talked to the Governor at all about his replacement in the Senate.
However, Obama's senior advisor David Axelrod had already told reporters that Obama had talked with Blagojevich at length about possible replacements.
In a televised interview on November 23, Axelrod told reporters that he knew Obama had talked to the Governor and that a whole range of names had been discussed (video of the interview included in the link).
Within a strikingly short period of time, however, Obama advisers had issued a statement disputing Axelrod's assertions, claiming that the senior advisor 'misspoke.'
Later in the day reports surfaced that according to Illinois law, Blagojevich could appoint someone to the vacant Senate seat, even from a jail cell.
This prospect, plus the fact that Blagojevich has stated that he himself is interested in Obama's vacated Senate seat, has led to a move by Illinois lawmakers to call for a special election to choose Obama's replacement.
Such a move would be the only prudent thing to do, given the stunning level of corruption that has come to light.
"Obama Presidency Shaken to Its Core"
From Judicial Watch:
Read the entire news release HERE.
Blagojevich's corruption is no surprise, but its breadth and depravity is shocking. The alleged efforts to sell the Senate seat of Barack Obama are outrageous, but also seem to implicate many other powerful politicians and political players. Especially disturbing are the questions the scandal raises about Barack Obama and his close associates.
This is a burgeoning crisis for Obama that should shake his presidency to its core.
Read the entire news release HERE.
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