Illinois governor arrested on corruption charges.......

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

Seriously? He tried to sell Obama's senate seat to the highest bidder and thought he'd get away with it?

http://www.foxnews.com/politics/2008/12/09/report-illinois-governor-taken-federal-custody/

[ISiddiqui]

That is just utterly insane. Illinois politics for you.

[CraigSca]

Crap, I hope I get my bid $$$ back.

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

That is just utterly insane. Illinois politics for you.

Couple of other things of note:

1. The labor unions were basically buying a vote with this setup. I'm guessing that they can't get any of the union bosses on this, but one wonders if this will hurt their bargaining power going forward with bailouts like the auto industry, where union worker expenses are through the roof.

2. Obama had reportedly been lobbying for an African-American to replace him in the Senate. I wonder if this governor was ratted out by people affiliated with Obama who were pissed off at the notion of him selling that seat rather than making it a fair evaluation. I can't say I would blame them if that were the case.

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

Crap, I hope I get my bid $$$ back.

You're in Delaware. Bid on your own open seat. :D

[ISiddiqui]

Apparently according to Red State's reading of the complaint:

BrianFaughnan’s blog » Charges Against Blago Imply Obama Camp Link :: (http://wordpress.redstate.com/brianfaughnan/2008/12/09/charges-against-blago-imply-obama-camp-link/)

Blago tried to get a seat as Secretary of HHS in exchange for whoever Obama wanted for the seat, and it seems Obama's team ratted him out to the FBI for it.

[JPhillips]

How will the Senate seat get filled? Assuming Blago fights the charges, will he still get to appoint the next Senator?

[Coffee Warlord]

Yay, we can FINALLY get his ass out.

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

Apparently according to Red State's reading of the complaint:

BrianFaughnan’s blog » Charges Against Blago Imply Obama Camp Link :: (http://wordpress.redstate.com/brianfaughnan/2008/12/09/charges-against-blago-imply-obama-camp-link/)

Blago tried to get a seat as Secretary of HHS in exchange for whoever Obama wanted for the seat, and it seems Obama's team ratted him out to the FBI for it.

Interesting. It didn't take much to connect the dots, but good to see that likely was the case.

[ISiddiqui]

How will the Senate seat get filled? Assuming Blago fights the charges, will he still get to appoint the next Senator?

If he does, the Senate can refuse to seat him or her (due to concerns they may have bribed their way on).

[flere-imsaho]

Yay, we can FINALLY get his ass out.

:+1:

It's amazing to think that Blago would practice so much corruption (this is just the tip of the iceberg) when he succeeded a governor who went to jail for corruption and racketeering. This latest attempt seems extreme even for him. What an idiot.

[JonInMiddleGA]

So he tries to get a job for himself and his wife as well. Then she in turn was linked to Rezko through work for his development company, and now works for a non-profit community group run by a former Daley official.

I wonder if the feds have his-and-her cells?

[Passacaglia]

2. Obama had reportedly been lobbying for an African-American to replace him in the Senate. I wonder if this governor was ratted out by people affiliated with Obama who were pissed off at the notion of him selling that seat rather than making it a fair evaluation. I can't say I would blame them if that were the case.

Not to be too confrontational, but did you get more confirmation of that, besides the gossip columnist?

[Passacaglia]

Yay, we can FINALLY get his ass out.

Word.

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

Not to be too confrontational, but did you get more confirmation of that, besides the gossip columnist?

I was just speculating when I posted it. I really don't think it's a stretch at all. I'm not an Obama supporter, but I'm a big fan of him if he rats out people who play political games. My personal opinion of Obama certainly improves if it pans out to be correct.

[remper]

That is just utterly insane. Illinois politics for you.

As an Illinoisan all I can say is... indeed. Now we're looking at nonstop coverage for the next few months, and having to see that hairdo more than is humanly necessary.

What's really crazy to me is that allegations have been flying around for a long time about corruption in his office, and instead of laying low for a while, he continues to get involved in influence peddling. It's laughable what an idiot he is, if only because he apparently thought he was untouchable. :lol:

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

Anothing interesting thing I noticed. The federal probe has been going on for five years according to court documents. So they've been looking into this guy the entire time he's been in office. Amazing.

[Barkeep49]

For the record, Pat Quinn, a Democrat, is the Lt. Governor and will become Governor when Blagovich is impeached or resigns, which can't happen soon enough.

[JonInMiddleGA]

For the record, Pat Quinn, a Democrat, is the Lt. Governor and will become Governor when Blagovich is impeached or resigns, which can't happen soon enough.

Somewhat ironically, Quinn was reportedly one of the people being considered (how seriously I have no idea) for Obama's old seat. And from one account I read on some blogger's site this morning, the state AG (who was also at least a possibility) really wants to be governor. Seems all rather incestuous or something.

If ever a state might want to consider a third party candidate, Illinois might be somewhere looking for an alternative.

[albionmoonlight]

That seems like such a high profile fraud to try and get away with. It being a senate seat, and Obama's seat. And the fact that he didn't seem to have a deal worked out for it, but just shopped it on back channels. How could he ever expect that not to get out?

It seems to me that if you are going to do fraud, you do it by selling things like the assistant commissioner for state parks or something--the kind of job that won't have the national media's attention.

Anyway, if any of this complaint is true, then good riddance.

Hmm... If he does appoint someone to the seat before he is impeached, and the Franken/Coleman race ends up as contentious as it appears to be headed, the Senate may have to spend the first few weeks deciding who should be in the Senate. Fun for Democracy nerds to watch, but probably not great for the Country.

[Barkeep49]

Somewhat ironically, Quinn was reportedly one of the people being considered (how seriously I have no idea) for Obama's old seat. And from one account I read on some blogger's site this morning, the state AG (who was also at least a possibility) really wants to be governor. Seems all rather incestuous or something.

If ever a state might want to consider a third party candidate, Illinois might be somewhere looking for an alternative.
I think this is a very poor reading of Illinois politics. Quinn's name had not come up in most discussions of the Senate seat, simply because it was likely to go to a minority or to someone to shore up Blagovich's own political chances. The AG, who is the daughter of the Speaker of the Illinois House, wanted the Governor's seat because her family and Blagovich don't get along. Whether she'll attempt to mount a primary challenge against a known reformer who is suddenly going to be the sitting Governor is a different question.

[Barkeep49]

DOLA: Jon you are right though that this cries for a 3rd party since the Republicans in Illinois are even weaker than the Dems DESPITE this.

[Buccaneer]

I just saw this and don't understand. Isn't this normal operations for any politicians in the position of authority and granting favors?

[JPhillips]

A couple of quotes from the documents I've seen floating around.

"I've got this thing and it's [expletive] golden, and, uh, uh, I'm just not giving it up for [expletive] nothing. I'm not gonna do it. And, and I can always use it. I can parachute me there."

In a conversation with Harris on November 11, the charges state, Blagojevich said he knew that the President-elect wanted Senate Candidate 1 for the open seat but "they're not willing to give me anything except appreciation. [Expletive] them."

He's [expletive].

[kcchief19]

This wasn't a spur of the moment move -- they've obviously been wire tapping this guy for a while, probably related to his connections with Rezko. If that's the case, it would seem to indirectly clear Obama's name in relation to Rezko. Patrick Fitzgerald, the US Attorney on the case, has balls of titanium when it comes to going after people with power and if he had the goods on Obama, he would have gone after him before the election.

Definitely sounds like they made their move now though to prevent the governor from filling the Senate seat.

In a side note, Lt. Gov. Pat Quinn's Web site has crashed. Power of the Internet. Probably by a bunch of Maple Leafs fans.

[JonInMiddleGA]

I think this is a very poor reading of Illinois politics. Quinn's name had not come up in most discussions of the Senate seat, simply because it was likely to go to a minority or to someone to shore up Blagovich's own political chances. The AG, who is the daughter of the Speaker of the Illinois House, wanted the Governor's seat because her family and Blagovich don't get along. Whether she'll attempt to mount a primary challenge against a known reformer who is suddenly going to be the sitting Governor is a different question.

I just said the guy was a possibility, didn't bother to go into how unlikely a selection he would be since he apparently didn't get along with Blag anyway. But could he/would he, as governor hypothetically, appoint himself? That's the reason I mentioned the AG thing, as it seems at least possible that he might end up _not_ being a sitting governor for longer than it would take to appoint himself. Seems as though she could end up running in a vacuum instead of against an incumbent.

[Neuqua]

Least. Surprising. News. Ever.

[Passacaglia]

Least. Surprising. News. Ever.

The fact that he got caught is surprising, IMO.

U.S. Attorney Patrick Fitzgerald is saying the Trib broke the story and asked them about it, was asked not to publish it, and they agreed not to.

[Barkeep49]

I just said the guy was a possibility, didn't bother to go into how unlikely a selection he would be since he apparently didn't get along with Blag anyway. But could he/would he, as governor hypothetically, appoint himself? That's the reason I mentioned the AG thing, as it seems at least possible that he might end up _not_ being a sitting governor for longer than it would take to appoint himself. Seems as though she could end up running in a vacuum instead of against an incumbent.
You're correct. If Quinn were to appoint himself the order of succession would make the AG the sitting Gov, a positions she's certainly indicated she's wanted. I hadn't understood at first what you were getting at. That being said, Quinn has always been a crusading "good governance" guy (he first rose to prominence arguing for a reform of the way Illinois selected its members in the house) and so seems like more of a fit as Gov than Sen

[Galaxy]

One reason why I think if you run for another office, regardless if you win or not, you should have to give up your current seat and allow the people (you know, the idea of democracy) to vote on the next person of the seat.

[Sgran]

I am a registered Illinois Democrat and I can honestly say I've never voted for this guy. The last time he was up I voted for the green candidate. I think he got close to 5% (i'm too lazy to look it up). But what does that say about the state that we could have two governors -- from opposite parties -- in jail at the same time?

[Jon]

But what does that say about the state that we could have two governors -- from opposite parties -- in jail at the same time?

That there is a state with more corruption than New Jersey.

[JonInMiddleGA]

I am a registered Illinois Democrat and I can honestly say I've never voted for this guy. The last time he was up I voted for the green candidate. I think he got close to 5% (i'm too lazy to look it up).

If Wiki is correct (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Illinois_gubernatorial_election,_2006#Republican_race), it was actually a little more than 10%.

[Apathetic Lurker]

Somewhat ironically, Quinn was reportedly one of the people being considered (how seriously I have no idea) for Obama's old seat. And from one account I read on some blogger's site this morning, the state AG (who was also at least a possibility) really wants to be governor. Seems all rather incestuous or something.

If ever a state might want to consider a third party candidate, Illinois might be somewhere looking for an alternative.


Shit, They would be better off digging up Lincoln. At least he wouldnt be corruptable

[flere-imsaho]

If Wiki is correct (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Illinois_gubernatorial_election,_2006#Republican_race), it was actually a little more than 10%.

Wiki is indeed correct. I voted Green in that election as well, partially so that they might get over the 10% mark, which now confers some electorate benefits on them (signatures, money, stuff like that).

Figured that since the GOP can't challenge Democrats in the state, might as well start building another party that might. :D

[flere-imsaho]

BTW, I just read parts of the criminal complaint the DA filed (which is on the NYT's front page, amongst other places) and if the quotes from the phone taps alone are correct, Blago is in deep, deep trouble. What a tool. :D

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

BTW, I just read parts of the criminal complaint the DA filed (which is on the NYT's front page, amongst other places) and if the quotes from the phone taps alone are correct, Blago is in deep, deep trouble. What a tool. :D

There's some video/audio of him yesterday at a public appearance. Someone had asked him about the possibility of a wire tap or investigation. He yammered on about how he'd be happy to talk to anyone and that he has nothing to hide. He also mentioned how his sole purpose was to help the common man of Illinois. He said a few other things, all of which are now hysterical in hindsight given today's developments.

[JPhillips]

There's some video/audio of him yesterday at a public appearance. Someone had asked him about the possibility of a wire tap or investigation. He yammered on about how he'd be happy to talk to anyone and that he has nothing to hide. He also mentioned how his sole purpose was to help the common man of Illinois. He said a few other things, all of which are now hysterical in hindsight given today's developments.

Even if he didn't know about the wiretap, he has known for a while that he was under investigation. What an idiot to try and do this while he knew Fitz was watching him.

[ISiddiqui]

OBAMA'S ILLINOIS SENATE SEAT FOR SALE - eBay (item 160303950570 end time Dec-19-08 10:00:13 PST) (http://cgi.ebay.com/OBAMAS-ILLINOIS-SENATE-SEAT-FOR-%20SALE_W0QQitemZ160303950570QQcmdZViewItemQQptZLH_De)

:D

Now YOU TOO can be a Senator ;).

[Chief Rum]

I haven't paid any attention to Illinois politics (why should I?), so this is really the first time I have gotten a look at Blagovich.

And I have to say, "Wow, you guys elected this guy?" Dude, he looks EXACTLY like an evil, smarmy politician. You couldn't cast an actor to look this part this on the dot in a movie about evil politicians. I'm surprised people didn't take one look at this guy and throw up a little in their mouths. Yech!

And, yes, this is from someone in the state of California, which elected the Terminator to be governor.

[Coffee Warlord]

And I have to say, "Wow, you guys elected this guy?" Dude, he looks EXACTLY like an evil, smarmy politician. You couldn't cast an actor to look this part this on the dot in a movie about evil politicians. I'm surprised people didn't take one look at this guy and throw up a little in their mouths. Yech!

Real simple.

He played the Change Card (tm) in '02, against a Republican party who were covered in the filth of the now imprisoned George Ryan administration.

And the Republicans managed to present an even bigger turd in 06' in the form of one Judy Baar-Topinka, who I think was finally nominated from a die roll. The Republican primary for governor was utterly disgusting, even by Illinois standards.

[RainMaker]

I'm an Illinois resident and Blagojevich won by default. In his first run, people simply voted for the Democrat because Republicans were so corrupt. Now, no party is worth a lick.

The funny thing is that we all knew he was corrupt and would be arrested sometime. I thought it would be after he left office. The word around Chicago is that Rahm Emanuel pushed this through after he tried to cut a deal with the administration on a candidate. Obama wanted Schakowsky in and Blagojevich wanted something in return. When they realized he was just selling it, they sold him out.

[JPhillips]

Blago was just upholding an IL tradition.

Here's the list of pols who have recently held that position: Blago (2003-present?), George Ryan (1999-2003), James Edgar (1991-1999), James Thompson (1977-1991), and Daniel Walker (1973-1977). Blago is Blago. Ryan was convicted of 16 charges of conspiracy, fraud, and lying under oath and currently resides in federal prison. (Patrick Fitzgerald, apparently the greatest prosecutor walking the planet, was Ryan's prosecutor.) Edgar was indicted (but not charged) with giving a sweetheart deal to a major campaign contributor. Thompson does not appear to have run into any legal trouble, but the law firm he heads did represent Ryan against Fitzgerald. And Walker was sentenced to seven years in federal prison for his role in a savings and loan scandal after leaving office.

So that would be... four of the five Illinois governors charged with some kind of wrongdoing. Excellent work, Land of Lincoln.

[molson]

The cynical part of me wonders how this is any different than how any other politician gets their job (except that it's somehow more direct).

Obama did well to emerge cleanly from the cesspool that is Illinois politics.

[Coffee Warlord]

Obama did well to emerge from the cesspool that is Illinois politics without getting caught.

Fixed.

Nobody gets that high in Illinois politics without getting dirty. You said it. It's a freakin' cesspool.

[Buccaneer]

Isn't all politics based on I'll-scratch-your-back-if-you-scratch-mine? With so much money to dole out and re-elections to gain, how can it not work this way?

[Chief Rum]

Am I out of line, though, in just judging the book by its cover? Seriously, this guy looks like a potential politician bad guy in the new '24' season. I asm thinking Rob Lowe will play him in the TV movie, and I mean the sleazy Rob Lowe of Wayne's World and Tommy Boy, not the 'good' Rob Lowe of West Wing.

[Coffee Warlord]

Am I out of line, though, in just judging the book by its cover? Seriously, this guy looks like a potential politician bad guy in the new '24' season. I asm thinking Rob Lowe will play him in the TV movie, and I mean the sleazy Rob Lowe of Wayne's World and Tommy Boy, not the 'good' Rob Lowe of West Wing.

That's the hilarious thing. He looked and acted liked a sleeze to begin with. There were very few illusions that he anything BUT a sleezeball. The other side still didn't have a snowball's chance in hell, thanks to Rod's future cellmate, George Ryan.

[flere-imsaho]

Nobody gets that high in Illinois politics without getting dirty. You said it. It's a freakin' cesspool.

I think Obama's clean. He ran his first campaign against the machine and got clobbered. He got into the State Senate without a lot of machine help and was never very high in the in-state politics. He won the primary for U.S. Senate after the two "connected" candidates self-imploded and he won the GE for that seat without needing much help after Ryan (another Ryan) self-destructed.

I think it's altogether likely he a) never had to resort to shenanigans and b) never became indebted to anyone.

[Buccaneer]

never became indebted to anyone

Until this year.

[Chief Rum]

I think Obama's clean. He ran his first campaign against the machine and got clobbered. He got into the State Senate without a lot of machine help and was never very high in the in-state politics. He won the primary for U.S. Senate after the two "connected" candidates self-imploded and he won the GE for that seat without needing much help after Ryan (another Ryan) self-destructed.

I think it's altogether likely he a) never had to resort to shenanigans and b) never became indebted to anyone.

You really believe that, huh? Not saying Obama's dirty (or dirtier than your standard politico), but there's a typical sense I have seen from his supporters in hoping he's some golden knight. If he is, he's the first in a long, long while. And if he wasn't indebted after the Illinois campaigns, you can certainly bet he is now that he's President.

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

This is all getting a bit seedy. Obama advisor Axelrod in November says that Obama had talked with Blago about the senate opening and was happy with the choices available. Then, Axelrod makes a public statement yesterday saying he was mistaken back in November.

The Obama campaign said they had no conversations with Blago about the seat, yet one of the main allegations is that Blago tried to sell the seat to Obama in exchange for a spot in his administration. How can that happen if someone hasn't talked to Blago?

FWIW.....I think Obama's crew is being far too cautious. Just fess up that he call you and you told him to go to hell. If more was involved, Blago is the type that will tell all anyway, so you won't be able to avoid that.

[Barkeep49]

That's the hilarious thing. He looked and acted liked a sleeze to begin with. There were very few illusions that he anything BUT a sleezeball. The other side still didn't have a snowball's chance in hell, thanks to Rod's future cellmate, George Ryan.
Agreed. When the downstate Democrats voted overwhelmingly for him in the Democratic primary (based mainly on pretty firm anti-tax pledges) it was all over, as the Republicans were running in a bad climate.

[Coffee Warlord]

FWIW.....I think Obama's crew is being far too cautious. Just fess up that he call you and you told him to go to hell. If more was involved, Blago is the type that will tell all anyway, so you won't be able to avoid that.

I have this image of Obama sitting in his office right now, smoking about 5,000 cigarettes, muttering, "Fuck Shit, God Dammit, Assshole." over and over.

[Buccaneer]

I have this image of Obama sitting in his office right now, smoking about 5,000 cigarettes, muttering, "Fuck Shit, God Dammit, Assshole." over and over.

More like sitting on a stack of pillows being the Golden Child.

[Thomkal]

And McCain is probably shaking his head and mumbling over and over "why didn't this happen before the election, why?" ;)

[flere-imsaho]

You really believe that, huh? Not saying Obama's dirty (or dirtier than your standard politico), but there's a typical sense I have seen from his supporters in hoping he's some golden knight.

OK, let me be clear. I believe that Obama, unlike a lot of your standard Illinois politicians, has not, as part of his political career:

1. Done anything illegal.
2. Engaged in Illinois' standard "pay-to-play" politics.

I say this based less on my judgment of the man and more on the circumstances. He was never really a Democratic establishment figure in the state until he won that Senate seat, at which point he was beyond the realm of the party bosses anyway. He didn't, really, have a long career in Illinois politics, so he didn't have the breadth of opportunities a Blago had.

I'm not saying he's the golden knight who is going to bring about world peace (I don't think I ever said that, even during the campaign). I just don't think it's likely he practiced the same corruption in which your average IL politician indulges.

FWIW.....I think Obama's crew is being far too cautious. Just fess up that he call you and you told him to go to hell. If more was involved, Blago is the type that will tell all anyway, so you won't be able to avoid that.

:+1:

[chris3627]

But what does that say about the state that we could have two governors -- from opposite parties -- in jail at the same time?

Unfortunately this is too representative of the life and times in this state. Even with all these charges and allegations, Blago is only 3rd on my list of the most currently corrupt politicians around here behind Daley and Stroger.

Fixed.

Nobody gets that high in Illinois politics without getting dirty. You said it. It's a freakin' cesspool.

+1

Obama doesn't seem to be a crook like too many Illinois politicians, but if you think he's clean then you are forgetting that he has been willing to cozy up with the bs artists and scum of the state, to get his (very very limited) agenda passed. When you're political godfather is Emil Jones and you have never come out saying a bad word (none that I can remember) about any of corruption going on (while being a us senator which helps makes you immune to more of the local squabbling) that doesn't speak well to me.

And while I think Quinn can do an honest job as the next governor, I wish to nominate either one of the Fitzgeralds (Peter or Pat), maybe they can be a tag team. :)

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

I noticed that MSNBC confirmed that 'Senate Candidate #5' in the list of charges is Jesse Jackson Jr.

[flere-imsaho]

I noticed that MSNBC confirmed that 'Senate Candidate #5' in the list of charges is Jesse Jackson Jr.

Big surprise there.

[chris3627]

I noticed that MSNBC confirmed that 'Senate Candidate #5' in the list of charges is Jesse Jackson Jr.


The Tribune and SunTimes have also reported that. That's a bit of a shocker. I thought he might've had some kind of inside track and didn't really need to offer the money. I guess he got desperate and wanted to seal the deal. Now we can eliminate one more from the running as a senator. Before there is any kind of selection or election of a new senator, I want to hear who candidates 3 and 4 and if they offered anything. And who else might have offered something. Seems like #1 is Valerie Jarrett and #2 is Lisa Madigan (who was never interested in the job.)

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

Couple of big news stories. First, a Chicago Sun-Times columnist is reporting that Obama Chief of Staff Rahm is on 21 separate taped conversations with Blago. Obviously a problem for Obama if true, as he's already claimed that none of his staff had any conversations with Blago about the situation.......

Rahm's calls on tape :: CHICAGO SUN-TIMES :: Michael Sneed (http://www.suntimes.com/news/sneed/1333057,CST-NWS-SNEED16.article)

Rahm's calls on tape
The Blago scandal . . .

December 16, 2008
BY MICHAEL SNEED Sun-Times Columnist

Sneed hears rumbles President-elect Barack Obama's chief of staff, Rahm Emanuel, is reportedly on 21 different taped conversations by the feds -- dealing with his boss' vacant Senate seat!

A lot of chit-chat?

Hot air?

Or trouble?

To date: Rahm's been mum. Stay tuned.

In addition, multiple media sources are reporting that Jesse Jackson Jr. is actually a federal informant and has been for a few years. No telling how much information he's passed on to federal authorities. This has the potential to become a very big political crackdown.

[flere-imsaho]

Bear in mind that Item #97 of Fitzgerald's Criminal Complaint against Blagojevich claims that a particular Sun-Times columnist (almost certainly Sneed) was fed leaks specifically from Blagojevich to reproduce almost verbatim in her column in an effort to get Obama to play ball.

This would not be, either, the first time Sneed has operated as a Blagojevich surrogate in the Sun Times.

Now, it could certainly be true that Rahm talked to Blagojevich's office about the Senate appointment. And it could certainly be true, as Obama said, that no one on his transition team did "anything inappropriate". It could also be true, as Fitzgerald stated repeatedly in his news conference, that Obama was unaware of the horse-trading in which Blagojevich was engaging over his Senate seat.

Here's what I think happened.

1. Obama sends Rahm to talk to Blagojevich's chief of staff about who they'd like to take Obama's Senate seat (Valerie Jarrett, apparently).

2. Harris (Blagojevich's chief of staff) & Blagojevich start their discussion about what they can get from Obama.

3. Rahm plays ball a little bit until he realizes that this isn't the usual quid pro quo regarding political appointments, but is much, much more overt.

4. Rahm brings the issue to various Obama people (probably Jarrett who at this time removes herself from consideration), and possibly even Obama himself.

5. Someone (possibly Obama) says "Fuck that shit" and calls up Pat Fitzgerald.


...and that's assuming Sneed's rumor is true, which is a pretty big assumption.... Read her columns on the VT shootings if you want to see how fact-averse she really is.

[Barkeep49]

Couple of big news stories. First, a Chicago Sun-Times columnist is reporting that Obama Chief of Staff Rahm is on 21 separate taped conversations with Blago. Obviously a problem for Obama if true, as he's already claimed that none of his staff had any conversations with Blago about the situation.......

This is not true. Obama has said that he did not contact the Gov or staff and that his staff did not discuss trading favors for the seat. Considering both Obama and his Chief of Staff are from IL it would be a lot weirder if someone in Emmanuel HADN'T talked.

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

This is not true. Obama has said that he did not contact the Gov or staff and that his staff did not discuss trading favors for the seat. Considering both Obama and his Chief of Staff are from IL it would be a lot weirder if someone in Emmanuel HADN'T talked.

OK, I'll buy that. But why not just be open about it from the start? Playing verbal games like that doesn't do anything to help Obama or his staff in this situation. Rahm has been surprisingly quiet rather than coming out to deny everything. My guess is that we'll read these transcripts once the formal charges are released and Obama and Rahm probably won't end up nearly as squeaky clean as they'd like you to think. I don't think they broke any laws, but they were involved in the seedy side of politics, which directly contradicts Obama's campaign of change.

I go back to my previous point earlier in the thread. The candidate of change shouldn't be the one hiding in this situation. He obviously failed to fully check out his cabinet members. Just admit that mistakes were made, but that no laws were broken. The current approach only brings about further concern.

[Barkeep49]

OK, I'll buy that. But why not just be open about it from the start? Playing verbal games like that doesn't do anything to help Obama or his staff in this situation. Rahm has been surprisingly quiet rather than coming out to deny everything. My guess is that we'll read these transcripts once the formal charges are released and Obama and Rahm probably won't end up nearly as squeaky clean as they'd like you to think. I don't think they broke any laws, but they were involved in the seedy side of politics, which directly contradicts Obama's campaign of change.

I go back to my previous point earlier in the thread. The candidate of change shouldn't be the one hiding in this situation. He obviously failed to fully check out his cabinet members.

I'm with you up until this point. I think the response has been pretty disappointing and disjointed from Obama. But where are you going with that last line? Are you talking about Emmanuel? If so
1. Emmanuel's not a cabinet member, he's White House Staff.
2. It's hard to vet a guy for things he hasn't done yet.
3. The whole point of the CoS is to bang heads. This will be particularly true for Rahm, I feel.

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

I'm with you up until this point. I think the response has been pretty disappointing and disjointed from Obama. But where are you going with that last line? Are you talking about Emmanuel? If so
1. Emmanuel's not a cabinet member, he's White House Staff.
2. It's hard to vet a guy for things he hasn't done yet.
3. The whole point of the CoS is to bang heads. This will be particularly true for Rahm, I feel.

New Mexico Governor and future Obama cabinet member is under grand jury investigation for a 'pay to play' scheme regarding contracts that were awarded under his administration. Also, although technically not cabinet, I'm sure that Obama was aware of Rahm's dealings. It makes no sense to assume otherwise.

[larrymcg421]

I don't understand what Emanuel is supposed to have done? Part of the report states that Blagojevich was unable to get Obama's team to deal with him. They were only willing to "give him appreciation", so he said, "fuck 'em!"

[Ronnie Dobbs2]

Personally speaking, I'm looking forward to the next eight years of MBBF, citizen crusader.

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

I don't understand what Emanuel is supposed to have done? Part of the report states that Blagojevich was unable to get Obama's team to deal with him. They were only willing to "give him appreciation", so he said, "fuck 'em!"

It doesn't take 21 calls to say 'No'. I don't think he did anything illegal, but the association is bad enough from a PR perspective.

Personally speaking, I'm looking forward to the next eight years of MBBF, citizen crusader.

Obviously, you're dripping with sarcasm with this post. But I don't think there's anyone too sad to see this happen. Everyone that I know that lives in Chicago is giddy with delight at the thought that the house of cards otherwise known as the Chicago political machine could come tumbling down in public. Hopefully Obama's only connection is Rahm's phone calls because our country doesn't need any further involvement of the future president.

[Ronnie Dobbs2]

No, I was being quite serious.

[molson]

Personally speaking, I'm looking forward to the next eight years of MBBF, citizen crusader.

I'm glad we're switching up crusaders, I was getting a little tired of the last batch.

[Ronnie Dobbs2]

The last batch was too dour and humorless.

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

The last batch was too dour and humorless.

Amazing how animated that same group is now that they carry the cross of the Chosen One.

[Ronnie Dobbs2]

The Chosen One... man, will that EVER get old?

[sterlingice]

Personally speaking, I'm looking forward to the next eight years of MBBF, citizen crusader.

Hopefully Obama's only connection is Rahm's phone calls because our country doesn't need any further involvement of the future president.

In math terms, the sincerity of these two statements is equivalent

SI

[flere-imsaho]

I'm glad we're switching up crusaders, I was getting a little tired of the last batch.

Democracy in ACTION! :D

Amazing how animated that same group is now that they carry the cross of the Chosen One.

Well, not me. I already did my 8-year stint from 1992 to 2000. I'm not doing that again. Attacking the President is much easier and a lot more fun. Wake me when we've got a Republican in power again. :D

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

In math terms, the sincerity of these two statements is equivalent

SI

In education terms, the reliability of a beaker's math skills should always be questioned.

[Fighter of Foo]

I still haven't decided how I feel about this getting much more media/discussion than giving away $800 Billion dollars did a month ago. $50K or whatever the amounts are here is relatively spare change.

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

Well, not me. I already did my 8-year stint from 1992 to 2000. I'm not doing that again. Attacking the President is much easier and a lot more fun. Wake me when we've got a Republican in power again. :D

So true. I'm waiting for a Flasch truth report regarding the Rahm and Richardson situations. He said he always searches for the truth regardless of party affiliation. I'm assuming he'll be posting every article about these situations, much like the Troopergate charges that resulted in Palin being cleared of wrongdoing.

[Ronnie Dobbs2]

In education terms, the reliability of a beaker's math skills should always be questioned.

Never question Beaker.

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/2/2c/Beaker_muppet.jpg

[flere-imsaho]

It doesn't take 21 calls to say 'No'.

RE: Hi John, Rahm Emmanuel here.
JH: Hey Rahm. Congrats on the new position. Please give our best to the President Elect.
RE: Thanks, and I'll pass that along.
JH: What's up?
RE: Big O asked me to talk to you guys to see who you're looking into for his Senate seat.
JH: We haven't talked about it seriously yet. Let me get back to you.
RE: OK.

JH: Blago has a lot of names on the table. JJJ's the only one to come forward to us yet, though. Did you ever notice, by the way, that he sits really close to you when you meet in person?
RE: Can't say I ever noticed that. Anyway, Big O would like you to consider Valerie Jarrett.
JH: Has she ever held office?
RE: No, so?
JH: Let me talk to Mr. Helmet Hair.
RE: OK.

JH: Hey Rahm, Blago's willing to consider your candidate. On a related note, he was wondering if Big O has mentioned anything about working together over the next few years.
RE: Good stuff. Well, I think if you could go with Jarrett we'd be likely to help the governor out in any way on legislative priorities that are of a mutual benefit. I mean, they're both Democrats, right? Haha.
JH: Haha. Good one. I'll talk to Rod.

JH: Hey Rahm, so... wait, did you hear that?
RE: The line has a lot of interference. Let me call you back.

JH: OK, that's better. So, Blago wants to know what other things he could work on with Big O besides legislative priorities.
RE: Such as?
JH: Well, you have other appointments to fill....
RE: What does he want?
JH: HHS?
RE: I think Daschle's already got the inside track on that one.
JH: DHS?
RE: Fuck off.
JH: OK, just kidding.
RE: I'll check with the transition team.

RE: Bad news, JH, I don't think we can appoint Blago to anything due to the federal investigation.
JH: Crappy. I wish Fitz would just indict us or not already.
RE: Fo shizzle. But you know how it is.
JH: Let me follow-up with Rod again.

JH: OK, let me bottom-line this. We're going to need something tangible to go with Jarrett.
RE: What do you mean "tangible"?
JH: Rod's sick of being governor, and has managed to blow a lot of money, personally. Could Big O swing a cushy appointment to a do-nothing, pay well job?
RE: Uh....
JH: If not for Helmet Hair, then maybe for Mrs. Helmet Hair? I mean, she's got a Series 7 and everything!
RE: Er, any other options?
JH: $500,000 in unmarked bills.
RE: Ah, I thought you were pulling my leg.
JH: Am I?
RE: Are you?
JH: Sorry, line's gone bad again.
RE: We need to get these phones fixed. It's like there's an echo here.

RE: Talked to Big O & Jarrett. Answer is no. They want to be all squeaky clean and whatnot. Jarrett wants out of consideration, as well.
JH: Squeaky clean? Do they realize which state they're in?
RE: Yeah, I know, but them's the breaks.
JH: Well shit, Rod's going to be pissed. Maybe JJJ will play ball.
RE: I didn't hear that?
JH: Yeah, who are you again?
RE: Heh, take care man.
JH: Same.

[cartman]

much like the Troopergate charges that resulted in Palin being cleared of wrongdoing.

lol

The report specifically stated she overstepped her authority and was influenced by a personal grudge. While not illegal, she was in no way cleared of wrongdoing.

[JPhillips]

There is no high profile prosecuter I trust more than Fitz. If Obama or his staff did anything wrong we'll find out soon enough.

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

The report specifically stated she overstepped her authority and was influenced by a personal grudge. While not illegal, she was in no way cleared of wrongdoing.

Which is exactly what I'm asserting in this case. I said that Obama likely didn't do anything illegal, but it's a bit seedy. I'm sure Flasch will come through with his truth detector and clear this all up soon enough.

[flere-imsaho]

Which is exactly what I'm asserting in this case. I said that Obama likely didn't do anything illegal, but it's a bit seedy. I'm sure Flasch will come through with his truth detector and clear this all up soon enough.

The problem is that your assertion is in contradiction with answers Fitzgerald gave to reporters (repeated many times) during his press conference. I encourage you to read the transcript in full.

[Flasch186]

Couple of big news stories. First, a Chicago Sun-Times columnist is reporting that Obama Chief of Staff Rahm is on 21 separate taped conversations with Blago. Obviously a problem for Obama if true, as he's already claimed that none of his staff had any conversations with Blago about the situation.......

Rahm's calls on tape :: CHICAGO SUN-TIMES :: Michael Sneed (http://www.suntimes.com/news/sneed/1333057,CST-NWS-SNEED16.article)



In addition, multiple media sources are reporting that Jesse Jackson Jr. is actually a federal informant and has been for a few years. No telling how much information he's passed on to federal authorities. This has the potential to become a very big political crackdown.

talking to him isnt a bad thing at all....what is said is and until we find out what is said how can we judge....we cant. If he did something wrong or said something wrong he'll be kicked out like he should be. I assume that everyone will cooperate (as I said in the other thread) and the truth and consequences will bear out. If he said, "Hmmmm, we dont like candidate X and we do Like candidate Y" that's fine and should be expected in a 2 party system. If he said, "We like candidate Y and will give you a spot in the admin if you pick him." then he'll go bye-bye.

[Flasch186]

So true. I'm waiting for a Flasch truth report regarding the Rahm and Richardson situations. He said he always searches for the truth regardless of party affiliation. I'm assuming he'll be posting every article about these situations, much like the Troopergate charges that resulted in Palin being cleared of wrongdoing.

Well considering she wasnt we have no where to go with this.

[Flasch186]

I don't think he did anything illegal.

Is this the same as "cleared" in your earlier precedent? If so, than where are you going on your slippery slope. You do want the truth to come out right?

[Flasch186]

here's your article to make MBBF happy:

Obama team defends Emanuel in Blagojevich probe - Yahoo! News (http://news.yahoo.com/s/nm/20081217/pl_nm/us_usa_obama_blagojevich)

and this is the fork in the road:

inappropriate.

Discussing the Senate seat would not be illegal. But what has remained unclear is whether Emanuel or Jarrett, who removed herself from consideration for being appointed to the Senate seat, were aware that Blagojevich was seeking a financial reward from whoever was picked.

when we find out if Emmanuel asked for something for the appointment we get our culmination. Until then it's 'Assertion's that come from MBBF.

and please just admit you were completely and utterly wrong in regards to polling and the elections and you can at least start over.

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

You do want the truth to come out right?

Absolutely. I'm interested to see all the critical analysis of the situation from the Truth Watch(TM) home office.

[Flasch186]

what analysis? Im not starting a parallel investigation and get my articles as stated before from the 2 sites i visit most often:

Yahoo
CNN

I dont go blogging. You assert. I read.

When you said "Absolutely." were you admitting to being so awfully wrong in your predictions, assertions, and speculations leading up to the election?

[molson]

Well, not me. I already did my 8-year stint from 1992 to 2000. I'm not doing that again. Attacking the President is much easier and a lot more fun. Wake me when we've got a Republican in power again. :D

I think that they've already shown they can't take it as well as they give it.

[Flasch186]

Amazing how animated that same group is now that they carry the cross of the Chosen One.

http://www.ridethatpony.com/yellowcard.jpg

[RainMaker]

I highly doubt Obama did anything illegal here. That's just not how he's operated over the years. He's also been very careful to distance himself from Blago at every turn during his campaign.

I do think he's retarded for having Emanuel as his Chief. He should have gone for someone outside Chicago politics who doesn't have his nose in everyone's business. Still, Emanuel doesn't seem like the type that gives in on stuff like that. He comes across as the type who tells Blago who he's going to pick and the political consequences if he doesn't.

Lets also not forget that if there was anything incriminating between Rahm and Blago, it would have shown up in the complaint.

[JonInMiddleGA]

I'm just amazed that anyone would be surprised by any level of involvement in this (other than none) by The Golden Child's cronies. I'd be surprised if he was foolish enough to be directly involved in it this quickly because plausible deniability seems to be a well established political rule at this point but to think that the people associated with him wouldn't be involved approaches the height of naivety. And as revolting a specimen as I find BHO to be, I won't pretend that the same couldn't be said for most people in his position regardless of party affiliation.

The situation here comes about courtesy of the degree of ineptitude with which Blago seems to have played his part. If he isn't so ham fisted about it then we aren't having any of this discussion.

[Flasch186]

however if he wasnt so stupid it eventually couldve truly sucked in some of the people on the fringe. So even if a guy like emmanuel couldve gotten involved in a dirty or illegal way because Blago was so stupid and blatant it probably kept a lot of people clean that perhaps couldve otherwise been.

[RainMaker]

I'm just amazed that anyone would be surprised by any level of involvement in this (other than none) by The Golden Child's cronies. I'd be surprised if he was foolish enough to be directly involved in it this quickly because plausible deniability seems to be a well established political rule at this point but to think that the people associated with him wouldn't be involved approaches the height of naivety. And as revolting a specimen as I find BHO to be, I won't pretend that the same couldn't be said for most people in his position regardless of party affiliation.

The situation here comes about courtesy of the degree of ineptitude with which Blago seems to have played his part. If he isn't so ham fisted about it then we aren't having any of this discussion.
I don't think it'd be surprising that there would be corruption, I think it would be surprising to see it with Blago. I live in Chicago and EVERYONE knew that it was a matter of time before he was arrested. EVERYONE knew he was under serious investigations. Whether you like him or not, Obama has put a group of people together during the campaign that was smart and stayed out of trouble. It would just go against everything we've seen from the people he surrounds himself with. I can't fathom they'd be that stupid to open themselves up to this with a guy who they knew was being investigated.

And why is Obama such a revolting specimen? I'm not a diehard fan of his or anything, but I don't see anything he's done to be so revolting.

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

I don't think it'd be surprising that there would be corruption, I think it would be surprising to see it with Blago. I live in Chicago and EVERYONE knew that it was a matter of time before he was arrested. EVERYONE knew he was under serious investigations.

Similarly, I'm shocked that the entire Daley family doesn't have a family cell in the state pen yet. His comments saying he was 'shocked' about the Blago indictment were laughable.

[Chief Rum]

I am guessing Dear Leader O and his henchman Chief of Staff shared a huge fat blunt before Rahm went to go to talk to the Chicago political power trust.

[flounder]

Looks like Blagojevich is looking to get the last laugh. (http://www.cnn.com/2008/POLITICS/12/30/illinois.senate/index.html)

Illinois Gov. Rod Blagojevich on Tuesday will name former Illinois Attorney General Roland Burris to the U.S. Senate, sources familiar with the decision say.

Burris' appointment would fill President-elect Barack Obama's former Senate seat. Blagojevich is to announce his choice at a news conference at 3 p.m. ET.

[larrymcg421]

Illinois AG won't sign the paperwork and the Dem Senate will not seat him.

[Flasch186]

pure silliness abounds.

[ISiddiqui]

Gotta say it... Blago's got some balls.

[Klinglerware]

So, what did Burris do to get on Blago's "enemies list"? Talk about throwing somebody under the bus...

[ISiddiqui]

Burris apparently ran against Blago in the primaries for government when Blago was elected. Guess you don't run against the Blago ;).

[Galaxy]

Are the politicians in Illionis actually going to start the impeachment process?

[flere-imsaho]

Burris didn't get seated by the Senate today, and it doesn't look like he's going to. Further, he created a good amount of press with his entry into the Capitol and presentation of credentials, only to be denied by the Secretary of the Senate, all the while claiming he didn't want "drama".

Initially I viewed Burris as a sympathetic figure, but now the more I hear of him on the radio the more I view him as a whiny bitch.

And back in Illinois the House Impeachment Committee cancelled deliberations today, and continue to do jack all, further solidifying their reputation as useless idiots. I wish we had term limits for these idiots.

[ISiddiqui]

it doesn't look like he's going to

Unless he sues.

[RainMaker]

Burris is a vain shit who only cares about himself. Those of us from Illinois have known this for awhile.

Still, I don't see how they can stop him. I'm from Illinois and this whole situation is screwed up beyond belief. But he should be the Senator. We elected Blago and we allow the rules that allow him to appoint a Senator in place. The two Senator slots per state are determined by the state as their representatives. The Senate should have no right to remove a state's representation simply because they don't like the process.

I think that's dangerous territory.

[flere-imsaho]

Yeah, that's the thing. Secretary of State Jesse White says he's not signed the form (or whatever) because Blagojevich's appointment is not valid, but how can that be, really? Blago hasn't even been indicted.

I think the core problem is that we know Blago broke the law (even if not with regard to the senate appointment, then with something else), but it's not official yet, and he's still governor anyway.

[ISiddiqui]

The Senate should have no right to remove a state's representation simply because they don't like the process.

Which is similar to what the Supreme Court has ruled in the past. Perhaps it is different if they actually find a bribe along the way.

[Young Drachma]

Jesse White, whose name is plastered on everything, as if it's synonymous with Secretary of State, has no authority to stop a legal appointment. It's a dangerous precedent to set.

[Young Drachma]

That said, Burris is a joke and I hope he never becomes Senator. He's a tired relic and I have no interest in seeing him all over the screen anymore than we already have.

[RainMaker]

I guess I just don't want to see this used to remove any Senator that people don't like. Democrats removing Republicans and vice versa when the power shifts. Senators at the core are representatives of the state they are from. If a state wants to put a complete moron in power, that's their right. People should direct their anger toward Illinois voters.

And Harry Reid isn't being some stand-up guy here. The only reason he gives a shit is because he knows that Burris would run again in 2010 and lose to the Republican. He doesn't want anything with Blago tainting that Senate race.

[RainMaker]

That said, Burris is a joke and I hope he never becomes Senator. He's a tired relic and I have no interest in seeing him all over the screen anymore than we already have.

They are all jokes. Our political system is an embarassment.

[Young Drachma]

I guess I just don't want to see this used to remove any Senator that people don't like. Democrats removing Republicans and vice versa when the power shifts. Senators at the core are representatives of the state they are from. If a state wants to put a complete moron in power, that's their right. People should direct their anger toward Illinois voters.

And Harry Reid isn't being some stand-up guy here. The only reason he gives a shit is because he knows that Burris would run again in 2010 and lose to the Republican. He doesn't want anything with Blago tainting that Senate race.

+1

[Young Drachma]

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/73/196788746_9dc7faeed0_o.jpg

[flere-imsaho]

Please tell me that's a joke, DC.

[Young Drachma]

Please tell me that's a joke, DC.

No, I'm afraid it's not. The guy is more self-promoting than Don King. At least King contributed something to society.

[Young Drachma]

But seeing that thing, it's easy to see why he'd want it to say United States Senator somewhere on it.

[Ronnie Dobbs2]

Do you think he'll add "Attempted United States Senator"?

[Klinglerware]

And Harry Reid isn't being some stand-up guy here. The only reason he gives a shit is because he knows that Burris would run again in 2010 and lose to the Republican. He doesn't want anything with Blago tainting that Senate race.

Maybe Reid should try to get a Republican appointed then. Someone that may have a hard time getting re-elected, due to age, incompetence, or unpopularity...

[Ronnie Dobbs2]

Maybe Reid should try to get a Republican appointed then. Someone that may have a hard time getting re-elected, due to age, incompetence, or unpopularity...

It's Keyes time, baby!

[sterlingice]

It's Keyes time, baby!

:D

SI

[flere-imsaho]

Apparently Bobby Rush has now said that if the Senate doesn't seat Burris, then it's "segregation".

Which is awesome.

Assholes.

[Thomkal]

apparantly the Illinois Secretary of State has now come forward and said that his lack of a signature should not prevent Congress from sitting Burris.

[Young Drachma]

Burris Meets With Reid and Durbin - The Caucus Blog - NYTimes.com (http://thecaucus.blogs.nytimes.com/2009/01/07/burris-meets-with-reid-and-durbin/?hp)

Reversing themselves, Senate Democratic leaders this morning opened the door to allowing Roland W. Burris to replace President-elect Barack Obama in the Senate.

Following a private 45-minute meeting with the former state attorney general, Senator Harry Reid of Nevada, the majority leader, and Senator Richard J. Durbin of Illinois, the No. 2 Senate Democrat, said that they were open to recognizing Mr. Burris’s appointment as long as he meets a series of conditions.

They said that Mr. Burris, whose appointment was challenged due to the federal inquiry surrounding Governor Rod Blagojevich, has to win the signature of the Illinois secretary of state and persuade a state legislative committee considering impeaching Mr. Blagojevich that there was nothing untoward about the appointment.

“If that comes to a positive conclusion, as we believe it will, the next step is for the Rules Committee to review what has come together here on a bipartisan basis and recommend to the United States Senate, both Democrats and Republicans, the next step,” Mr. Durbin said.

[Young Drachma]

Blagojevich Camp Asked Burris to Aid Fund-Raising - NYTimes.com (http://www.nytimes.com/2009/02/15/us/15burris.html?hp)

CHICAGO — Roland W. Burris acknowledged Saturday that the brother of former Gov. Rod R. Blagojevich solicited a campaign contribution from him several times in the weeks and months before Mr. Blagojevich appointed Mr. Burris to succeed President Obama as Illinois’s junior senator.


Mr. Burris said that in three conversations with Mr. Blagojevich’s brother, Rob Blagojevich, last October and November, he was asked for “my assistance in fund-raising” for the governor — assistance Mr. Burris says he never provided. The senator said in addition to conversations about the Senate seat with Rob Blagojevich, he also spoke with the governor’s chief of staff and one of his top fund-raisers.

The disclosures came in an affidavit that Mr. Burris filed last week with the Illinois House committee that oversaw Governor Blagojevich’s impeachment, and they are at odds with his earlier sworn testimony before the committee. Mr. Burris said he provided the new affidavit to “supplement” earlier sworn testimony he gave before state lawmakers seeking to impeach Mr. Blagojevich.

[EagleFan]

Seriously though. The guy looks and acts like a fucking used car salesman. Are the people of Illinois that fucking stupid to elect him?

Ye, I understand that we have the king of used car salemen here with Corzine but I sure as hell didn't vote for the jackass; but unfortunately get stuck with his idiocy.

[Young Drachma]

Seriously though. The guy looks and acts like a fucking used car salesman. Are the people of Illinois that fucking stupid to elect him?

Ye, I understand that we have the king of used car salemen here with Corzine but I sure as hell didn't vote for the jackass; but unfortunately get stuck with his idiocy.

And Corzine is a very, very rich used car salesman on a power trip. I hate him because he kept Bob Franks out of the Senate, but...at least Jersey folks don't have to worry about him lining his pockets with state money.

He can leave that to pretty much everyone else in local gov't though, at least in the big cities.

[Raiders Army]

Not surprisingly Burris has changed his story. Both Blago and Burris are trash. You can't trust politicians from Illinois...

[sterlingice]

Apparently, he's in Disney World tonight as he's getting indicted on 16 counts.

Someone badly needs to make a satirical movie about him- something like an old Mel Brooks movie- where they just show how absurd everything is with him including some of his great quotes and everything. I think it was Jon Stewart who said this (paraphrasing), but I could be wrong: "It's amazing because the man thinks it's working".

SI