Pay to play baby. It's not just a New Jersey corruption thing. /needs work as a slogan though...

All involved are SCUMBAGS of the highest order!

Just the usual suspects. Nothing too surprising about it.

Could this possibly be the end of the Rainbow Coalition?

And Rahm ratted him out. Get the pop-corn and watch the war.

lol!

What was Obama?Soetoro?'s cut gonna be? That's what I want to know.

And candidates 1 - 4? 6 and above?

Pwnt.

He's not a target of the investigation? That's going to change pretty quick, and it looks like his stupidity and arrogance is exceeded only by that of Blagojavich himself. No wonder he's lawyered up.

Jackson, who has expressed interest in being appointed to the post, told ABC News that he did not authorize anyone to make payments or promises on his behalf to the governor, and he is going to meet with federal prosecutors "as quickly as possible" after consulting with lawyers.

"It is impossible for someone on my behalf to have a conversation that would suggest any type of quid pro quo or any payments or offers," Jackson told ABC News. "An impossibility to an absolute certainty."

And yet, he's not denying that he's #5? Something has got to give here, and I bet it's going to be Jackson.

Thank you, Chicago! Not only is Chicago one of the coolest and best cities in the world to visit, it is also home of one-of-a-kind over the top corruption. I will be enjoy watching Mr. Fitzgerald peel back the woodwork and be amazed by what is found! This will make the long cold winter oh-so-warm!

Let's hope he does the same bang up job as he did with Scooter...it will be fun watching that "Frog-March"!

Perhaps it was just his way of saying "I am somebody!".

[his pop's old slogan]

What does Jackson care, it's money extorted from folks who don't want the Rainbow Mafia calling them racist.

You're all RACISTS!

/

Are "Advisor A" and/or "Advisor B" going to be unnamed, unindicted co-conspirators and/or are they going to be required to testify as material witnesses?
When will their identities be disclosed?

Who knew that the old-line MSM Chicago Tribune has so much clout?

/

OT - Wall Street Journal is reporting that "NPR to reduce staff by 7% because of a sharp decline in corporate underwriting."

"I am not a target of this investigation. Yet."

re: #3 bosforus

Just the usual suspects. Nothing too surprising about it.

They were more stylish - and entertaining at lineup...

The question that the cash raises, for me, is why it's worth so much, exactly.
A senate seat is a powerful thing, obviously, but this makes it clear just how easily they can skim, designate and appropriate -- steal -- our money.

Jesse Jackson Jr.

He served as a national co-chairman of the Barack Obama presidential campaign. Jackson has been mentioned as a possible appointee by Governor Rod Blagojevich for an interim United States Senator to replace Obama until the November 2010 election.

Jackson has a lengthy relationship with Barack Obama. Barack's Illinois State Senate 13th district that he served from January 8, 1997–November 4, 2004 was within Jackson's Congressional district. The two have collaborated on issues, stood together against the party slate on certain reform-minded candidates and sought each other’s advice.

Additionally, Jackson's sister Santita was a close friend of Michelle Obama and served as a bridesmaid at the Obama wedding.

Move along folks. This isn't happening.

Wonder where he'd learned values like that.

///

re: #1 lawhawk

Pay to play baby. It's not just a New Jersey corruption thing. /needs work as a slogan though...

New Jersey's a bunch of ameturs in this. Chicago is big league corruption.

I'm still thinking we're going to have little party in a garage on February 14th. The "machine" will take care of a few odds and ends then.

re: #16 Conservative in Liberal Hands

OT - Wall Street Journal is reporting that "NPR to reduce staff by 7% because of a sharp decline in corporate underwriting."

To NPR...
Cry me a river, build a bridge and get over it.

And you guys were not looking forward to the Obama presidency!

And that question, for what it's worth, is rhetorical.

Buh-bye, Junior. You may be Congressman for Life, considering how ignorant your constituents are, but you have hit your limit.

Probably offered to pay for the seat with money from Rainbow/PUSH (a.k.a extorted money from big corporations to avoid race based suits).

re: #25 jcm

To NPR...
Cry me a river, build a bridge and get over it.

Could not happen to a nicer bunch. /

Now how is it possible that a Senate Seat is worth a million dollars?

I must be missing something.
/

Poor Nancy Pelosi - this is really going to mess up her message that it's the Republicans who are resposible for the Culture of Corruption...
/

re: #26 little boomer

And you guys were not looking forward to the Obama presidency!

You mean it will at least be entertaining?

I have faith in Governor Soprano...er, I mean, Blagojevich.

re: #8 bosforus

The Hill has a racing form for you to peruse:
Clues

re: #19 Cognito

The question that the cash raises, for me, is why it's worth so much, exactly.
A senate seat is a powerful thing, obviously, but this makes it clear just how easily they can skim, designate and appropriate -- steal -- our money.

I don't know of any poor Senators.

re: #20 Racer X

Jesse Jackson Jr.

Additionally, Jackson's sister Santita was a close friend of Michelle Obama and served as a bridesmaid at the Obama wedding.

Now even weddings are pay to play! Is nothing sacred?

Look at all the cockroaches!

re: #19 Cognito

The question that the cash raises, for me, is why it's worth so much, exactly.
A senate seat is a powerful thing, obviously, but this makes it clear just how easily they can skim, designate and appropriate -- steal -- our money.

You need to read Mike Royko's books and columns, and then read John Kass's columns more. This is pure, unadulterated Chicago corruption, pure and simple.

re: #13 jcm

What does Jackson care, it's money extorted from folks who don't want the Rainbow Mafia calling them racist.

Yep, he learned well from his father who changed the civil rights from a movement into an industry.

re: #32 LGoPs

Poor Nancy Pelosi - this is really going to mess up her message that it's the Republicans who are resposible for the Culture of Corruption...
/

Happy Happy Joy JOY . . .FA LA LA LA LA LA LA LA LAAA

Think President Obama will pardon him...assuming there is a Pres. Obama?

How long until Blago has his own show on MSNBC?

Dominos...falling like dominos...click, click...wonder where this domino chain will end...it looks like a really long one...someone call The Guiness Book of World Records

re: #36 Ford_Prefect

I don't know of any poor Senators.

After just one term in office they get very high quality health care for life.

re: #2 AmericanMe

All involved are SCUMBAGS Democrats of the highest order!

FTFY! (with a synonym... %-)

re: #20 Racer X

Additionally, Jackson's sister Santita

Oh, dear.

I love how this story is breaking 4 weeks after the election. Even someone at the FBI could have leaked this to the press, but even they knew their jobs would be suspect if they were to embarrass the Messiah before his coronation. How in hell and who was paid to keep this story quiet? That's the real story, for had this toilet seat been hung around Obama's neck in October, we may have had a very different election outcome. Did the DNC pay off the FBI to keep quiet?, the media? or both?

The rot is systemic and it is deep.

re: #38 Hard Right

Look at all the cockroaches!

Yep, and they scurry back to the 5th floor of city hall for protection.

Jesse Jackson Sr. will be blaming the Jews for this in 10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, seconds...

re: #49 Honorary Yooper

Yep, and they scurry back to the 5th floor of city hall for protection.

Quick, get a shoe!

"The Libs on the bus"

The libs on the bus go under and down
Under and down, under and down
The libs on the bus go under and down
Karmas comin’ round.

The feds point to "Blagojevich,
Blagojevich, Blagojevich"
The feds point to "Blagojevich,
The Gov’nors wired for sound.

The senate seat gets sold for bucks
Sold for bucks, sold for bucks
Jesse Jr’s out of luck
When this s--- goes down.

The Al in the race goes count, count, count
Count, count, count, Count, count, count
He’s found another ballot box
Buried under ground.

The money in the bailout goes "Clink, clink, clink,
Clink, clink, clink, clink, clink, clink"
The money in the bailout goes "Clink, clink, clink"
But the Dow still goes down.

The Auto Manufacturers go, "Wah, wah, wah!
Wah, wah, wah, wah, wah, wah!"
The Auto Manufactuerers go, "Wah, wah, wah!"
Give us more cash.

The Main Stream Media goes, "Shh, shh, shh,
Shh, shh, shh, shh, shh, shh"
The MSM goes, "Shh, shh, shh"
Nothing here to see.

I knew it!

re: #33 father_of_10

You mean it will at least be entertaining?

Perp Walk. . .

re: #44 Desert Dog

Dominos...falling like dominos...click, click...wonder where this domino chain will end...it looks like a really long one...someone call The Guiness Book of World Records

I, for one, hope it goes until it ends on the 5th floor of city hall. The Teflon Don of Chicago needs to go.

re: #50 MJ

Jesse Jackson Sr. will be blaming the Jews for this in 10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, seconds...

Amidst cries of Whitey keepin' the black man down

re: #20 Racer X

Jesse Jackson Jr.

He served as a national co-chairman of the Barack Obama presidential campaign. Jackson has been mentioned as a possible appointee by Governor Rod Blagojevich for an interim United States Senator to replace Obama until the November 2010 election.

Jackson has a lengthy relationship with Barack Obama. Barack's Illinois State Senate 13th district that he served from January 8, 1997–November 4, 2004 was within Jackson's Congressional district. The two have collaborated on issues, stood together against the party slate on certain reform-minded candidates and sought each other’s advice.

Additionally, Jackson's sister Santita was a close friend of Michelle Obama and served as a bridesmaid at the Obama wedding.

Incestuous Illinois.

re: #32 LGoPs

Poor Nancy Pelosi - this is really going to mess up her message that it's the Republicans who are resposible for the Culture of Corruption...
/

Yeah, but at least it takes some of the heat off of Charlie Rangle

re: #31 Bobibutu

Now how is it possible that a Senate Seat is worth a million dollars?

I must be missing something.
/

It can help you save a bundle on your mortgage (ask Chris Dodd). It's not so useful when you're trying to get out of legal trouble for hanky-panky in an airport men's room (see Larry Craig).

re: #50 MJ

Jesse Jackson Sr. will be blaming the Jews for this in 10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, seconds...

Yeah, round us up. . .the Zionists are STILL in control you know. . .because dear leader is only an elect. . .

re: #59 DeafDog

Yeah, but at least it takes some of the heat off of Charlie Rangle

Which the MSM has stopped reporting on...

re: #48 strangelove

I love how this story is breaking 4 weeks after the election. Even someone at the FBI could have leaked this to the press, but even they knew their jobs would be suspect if they were to embarrass the Messiah before his coronation. How in hell and who was paid to keep this story quiet? That's the real story, for had this toilet seat been hung around Obama's neck in October, we may have had a very different election outcome. Did the DNC pay off the FBI to keep quiet?, the media? or both?

The rot is systemic and it is deep.

I was thinking along those lines too, but then I remembered that the senate seat was not available to sell until late on November 5th.

I said yesterday that RACISM would be called sooner or later over this. A few doubted me but, I was right.

re: #58 MandyManners

Incestuous Illinois.

La Cosa Nostra of Chicago.

re: #43 Ford_Prefect

How long until Blago has his own show on MSNBC?

Or the Game show channel: "Pay to Play with Blago" "You too, could be a US Senator!

re: #4 father_of_10

Could this possibly be the end of the Rainbow Coalition?

no way. daddy's cash cow?

Birds of a Feather

re: #19 Cognito

The question that the cash raises, for me, is why it's worth so much, exactly.
A senate seat is a powerful thing, obviously, but this makes it clear just how easily they can skim, designate and appropriate -- steal -- our money.

Just think of all the earmarks (aka pork) being suggested as the latest stimulus package. Who doles it out and who gets to say where it goes? Congress, and the individual members. A senator could send quite a nice chunk of change to his or her cronies up and down the state. It's quite profitable for everyone.

You get to say you're helping with the bailout; your friends cash in nicely; and you have a nice payday at the end of the line (by becoming a lobbyist or kingmaker should you decide not to run in the future).

re: #47 Occasional Reader

Oh, dear.

I was just cutting and pasting that

Jackson's sister Santita was a close friend of Michelle Obama

re: #45 Hard Right

After just one term in office they get very high quality health care for life.

with a pension to match.

re: #10 lawhawk

He's not a target of the investigation?
And yet, he's not denying that he's #5? Something has got to give here, and I bet it's going to be Jackson.

...#5 must be OJ. Oh wait, he's busy.

re: #66 bmorte

Or the Game show channel: "Pay to Play with Blago" "You too, could be a US Senator!

Actually I heard he was going to replace Howie Mandel on Deal Or No Deal.

//

re: #60 doppelganglander

It can help you save a bundle on your mortgage (ask Chris Dodd). It's not so useful when you're trying to get out of legal trouble for hanky-panky in an airport men's room (see Larry Craig).

Craig had a fatal flaw...
an (R) after his name.

re: #60 doppelganglander

It can help you save a bundle on your mortgage (ask Chris Dodd). It's not so useful when you're trying to get out of legal trouble for hanky-panky in an airport men's room (see Larry Craig).

lol

Gawd - you have real villains in public office, trying to sell and/or buy a seat as a senator for a million bucks, and one of them is asked to kindly go and see the police about it.

Here, we have a Member of Parliament who received leaked information from the Home Office and embarrassed teh government with questions based on that information being arrested and held for nine hours, his offices and home ransacked by twelkve anti-terrorist police officers, his teenage daughter in tears - and his office in Parliament also ransacked, computer, blackberry, everything taken so he can't do his job.

Wanna learn from us?

re: #1 lawhawk

50,000 Jacksons for a Jackson?

re: #20 Racer X

Jesse Jackson Jr.

He served as a national co-chairman of the Barack Obama presidential campaign. Jackson has been mentioned as a possible appointee by Governor Rod Blagojevich for an interim United States Senator to replace Obama until the November 2010 election.

Jackson has a lengthy relationship with Barack Obama. Barack's Illinois State Senate 13th district that he served from January 8, 1997–November 4, 2004 was within Jackson's Congressional district. The two have collaborated on issues, stood together against the party slate on certain reform-minded candidates and sought each other’s advice.

Additionally, Jackson's sister Santita was a close friend of Michelle Obama and served as a bridesmaid at the Obama wedding.

His wife was also major part of Barack campaign

Chicago Sweepstakes
We need Ed McMahon: You may already be indicted!

re: #35 kgill

...details within the criminal complaint suggest Obama adviser Valerie Jarrett and State Attorney General Lisa Madigan were among those considered for the post.

We're royally screwed.

So, Gov. Blagojevich, how's your 52nd birthday party going today?

re: #32 LGoPs

Poor Nancy Pelosi - this is really going to mess up her message that it's the Republicans who are resposible for the Culture of Corruption...
/

Well with the MSM running interference blowing up every little allegation against Republicans, will make it more difficult to see the overwhelming corruption of the Democrats.

re: #77 Shr_Nfr

50,000 Jacksons for a Jackson?

How much would Michael Jackson have had to pay?

re: #73 Ford_Prefect

Actually I heard he was going to replace Howie Mandel on Deal Or No Bleepin' Deal.

re: #70 Peacekeeper

I was just cutting and pasting that

Jackson's sister Santita was a close friend of Michelle Obama

you are known by the company you keep...

and like attracts like.

JJJ wasn't going to actually pay that million dollars. His dad was gonna go shakedown some CEO's for the cash.

re: #64 MandyManners

I said yesterday that RACISM would be called sooner or later over this. A few doubted me but, I was right.

I think the doubters were Racists...harumph

re: #63 wrenchwench

I was thinking along those lines too, but then I remembered that the senate seat was not available to sell until late on November 5th.

..no excuse, though...the investigation is three >years

re: #69 lawhawk

Just think of all the earmarks (aka pork) being suggested as the latest stimulus package. Who doles it out and who gets to say where it goes? Congress, and the individual members. A senator could send quite a nice chunk of change to his or her cronies up and down the state. It's quite profitable for everyone.

You get to say you're helping with the bailout; your friends cash in nicely; and you have a nice payday at the end of the line (by becoming a lobbyist or kingmaker should you decide not to run in the future).

Oh, I know. Like I said, it was just a rhetorical musing.

Wow, Jesse Jackson Jr. put in a bid? I am shocked!
/

re: #20 Racer X

Charles - update?

re: #75 Bobibutu

lol

So what's wrong with having a wide stance?

re: #73 Ford_Prefect

Actually I heard he was going to replace Howie Mandel on Deal Or No Deal.

//

"The banker is offering $50,000 and one U.S. Senate seat for your case."

Santita
I've just met a girl named Santita
and her parents are to blame
for how ridiculous a name
can be...

re: #81 gmsc

So, Gov. Blagojevich, how's your 52nd birthday party going today?

And I forgot! Is there still time to get him a gift certificate for The Law Offices of Gary Martin Hays? Or should I go with hair care products?

Williams Ayers is beginning to look like the most upstanding famous person in Illinois.

re: #87 LGoPs

I think the doubters were Racists...harumph

It's just that I had forgotten that I'd already taken my cynicism pill so I double-dosed.

re: #24 father_of_10

I'm still thinking we're going to have little party in a garage on February 14th. The "machine" will take care of a few odds and ends then.

Old school Chicago Political Action Committee

re: #76 yma o hyd

Gawd - you have real villains in public office, trying to sell and/or buy a seat as a senator for a million bucks, and one of them is asked to kindly go and see the police about it.

Here, we have a Member of Parliament who received leaked information from the Home Office and embarrassed teh government with questions based on that information being arrested and held for nine hours, his offices and home ransacked by twelkve anti-terrorist police officers, his teenage daughter in tears - and his office in Parliament also ransacked, computer, blackberry, everything taken so he can't do his job.

Wanna learn from us?

You need a real revolution, even most Democrats in America would look like steely eyed gun advocates compared to mainstream Tory Conservatives in the UK.

re: #92 father_of_10

So what's wrong with having a wide stance?

I guess that would depend on how far down one drops one's drawers.

re: #71 redc1c4

with a pension to match.

Yup. I want to be a one term senator when I grow up.
///

re: #83 Ford_Prefect

I won't go there. Anyway, he is happy in the ROP now (Religion of Pedantry).

re: #54 buzzsawmonkey

Well, we might get a "dialogue on race," Chicago style--just not the "dialogue" that the President-elect wanted.

Not so fast...

December 15, 2008

* Meetings of Electors and Transmission of Certificates of Vote to NARA
The electors meet in their State to select the President and Vice President of the United States. No Constitutional provision or Federal law requires electors to vote in accordance with the popular vote in their States. NARA's web site lists the States that have laws to bind electors to candidates. The electors record their votes on six "Certificates of Vote," which are paired with the six remaining Certificates of Ascertainment. The electors sign, seal and certify packages of electoral votes and immediately send one set of votes to the President of the Senate and two sets to the Archivist. The Federal Register preserves one archival set and holds the reserve set subject to the call of the President of the Senate to replace missing or incomplete electoral votes.

December 24, 2008

* Deadline for Receipt of Electoral Votes at NARA
The President of the Senate and the Archivist should have the electoral votes in hand by December 24, 2008 (States face no legal penalty for failure to comply). If votes are lost or delayed, the Archivist may take extraordinary measures to retrieve duplicate originals.

Today appears to be December 10, 2008...hmmm?

re: #95 doppelganglander

And I forgot! Is there still time to get him a gift certificate for The Law Offices of Gary Martin Hays? Or should I go with hair care products?

Maybe you just get him a prostitute to "entertain" him at his party. I understand he enjoys solicitation.

re: #33 father_of_10

Yup, Iowahawk's already on this case: "BREAKING: Feds Seize Blagojevich eBay Account" - [Link: iowahawk.typepad.com...]

Buy your Orville Redenbacher stock now folks, this is all pre game warm up stuff! Wait til after Jan 20.

re: #95 doppelganglander

And I forgot! Is there still time to get him a gift certificate for The Law Offices of Gary Martin Hays? Or should I go with hair care products?

The people of Chicago will end up footing his legal bills, go with the hair care, I doubt they provide access to John Edwards hair stylist in federal prison.

What does the senate pay? Jackson offering a million clams for a job that pays about $180k a year and up for re-election in less than 2 years? Sounds to me like someone thinks the senate is a way to get rich beyond the salary. Maybe Jackson already had some "friends" interested in what he could do as a senator.

Chicago uses to stink to high heaven during the heyday of the stockyards. It seems things haven't changed very much.

With the arrest of Governor Blagojevich this morning, it becomes clear that Tony Rezko played a significant role in putting him in jail. Rezko's name appears 170 times in the criminal complaint against Blagojevich and Harris, and the FBI states early on (page 11) that he was cooperating with the investigation. At the same time, the FBI is apparently uncertain about just how reliable Rezko is:

but said he was told “I am not a target of this investigation.”

And he believed them?!

I wanna' know if something else is happening in the CBBHO camp that is being over-shadowed by this.

Oh, this is getting too rich! Rev. "Cut His Nuts Off" Jackson was trying to buy Obama's Senate seat?

You can't make this stuff up. It HAS to be true! :)

re: #96 Opinionated

Williams Ayers is beginning to look like the most upstanding famous person in Illinois.

Now that tickled me.

re: #109 jcm

Blagojevich is a complete and utter fool. Did he not know he was being investigated? Was he really that stupid?

Some out-takes;...

According to the affidavit, Blagojevich threatened to appoint Senate Candidate No. 5 if President-elect Obama refused to help get his wife on "paid corporate boards right now."

"If they feel like they can do this and not f-- give me anything then I'll f-- go [Senate Candidate 5]."

There are strong indications that Candidate 1 may be Valerie Jarrett, Obama's close confidante who has since been named a special presidential adviser. Senate Candidate 1 is identified in the federal documents as an adviser to the president-elect.

It looks like a lolly scramble to me. BHO wants Blagojevich to appoint #1, Blagojevich says "if you dont give my wife a cushy number I will take the dosh and appoint #5"

Blagojevich is doomed to be the scapgoat, here, but there is smelly shit stuck on more than just his face. It from top to bottom. Send in the cleaners.

How did Chicago become this corrupt? When did it start? Has anyone tried to root it out?

re: #112 garycooper

Oh, this is getting too rich! Rev. "Cut His Nuts Off" Jackson was trying to buy Obama's Senate seat?

You can't make this stuff up. It HAS to be true! :)

No. Jackson's son, who seems (so far) to be much more upstanding.

We'll see what comes of this Blag business.

re: #96 Opinionated

Williams Ayers is beginning to look like the most upstanding famous person in Illinois.

Actually, it makes sense, he has settled among his peers.

re: #110 Dianna

And he believed them?!

I'm not a lawyer.
But I think there is some legal reason why people are told they are not a "target" of an investigation (or have to be told if they are indeed a "target").

So if that is what he was told, then it would be true, I think.

re: #112 garycooper

Oh, this is getting too rich! Rev. "Cut His Nuts Off" Jackson was trying to buy Obama's Senate seat?

You can't make this stuff up. It HAS to be true! :)

No - that was his dad. Jr. was trying to buy the seat.

re: #83 Ford_Prefect

How much would Michael Jackson have had to pay?

"Will you take a check?"

re: #107 father_of_10

What does the senate pay? Jackson offering a million clams for a job that pays about $180k a year and up for re-election in less than 2 years? Sounds to me like someone thinks the senate is a way to get rich beyond the salary. Maybe Jackson already had some "friends" interested in what he could do as a senator.

Wow! What a concept. You don't really think that could be part of it ... do you?

What with patriotic, public service and all.

Hmmm
/

re: #108 maddogg

Chicago uses to stink to high heaven during the heyday of the stockyards. It seems things haven't changed very much.

Where's Mrs. O'Leary's cow when you need her?

re: #119 reine.de.tout

I'm not a lawyer.
But I think there is some legal reason why people are told they are not a "target" of an investigation (or have to be told if they are indeed a "target").

So if that is what he was told, then it would be true, I think.

He isn't a target...of that investigation. They could launch a seperate one.

re: #116 MandyManners

How did Chicago become this corrupt? When did it start? Has anyone tried to root it out?

There were a few years when things were cleaner in Chicago, but then the Feds got Capone...

re: #114 Racer X

Blagojevich is a complete and utter fool. Did he not know he was being investigated? Was he really that stupid?

Arrogant, the arrogance of power and corruption.

re: #98 DaddyG

Old school Chicago Political Action Committee

I was thinking more like this.

re: #99 lifeofthemind

You need a real revolution, even most Democrats in America would look like steely eyed gun advocates compared to mainstream Tory Conservatives in the UK.

Heh - I wasn't aiming to compare politicians - I was thinking more about the methods our Police is so fond of using.
Oh - did I mention they had no warrant to search his office in Parliament? But were nodded through by NuLab officials?

Whassa matter - have you no special anti-terrorist police?

///

re: #117 Cognito

No. Jackson's son, who seems (so far) to be much more upstanding.
We'll see what comes of this Blag business.

You're kidding, right?

Senate Candidate #5? How many were there?
Any guesses on who Senate Candidates 1 through 4 are? I want names, and I want to know what they offered.

re: #117 Cognito

No. Jackson's son, who seems (so far) to be much more upstanding.

Ok, now THAT tickled me.

Where's Buzzsawmonkey? I know he could come up with a great set of lyrics about Senate Candidate No. 5 based on this.

re: #124 Hard Right

He isn't a target...of that investigation. They could launch a seperate one.

Ok, thanks for clarification.
But if he is told he is "not a target" of a particular investigation, then would he have any reason to doubt that was the truth?

A radio host asked why certain states are always so corrupt. Clearly the unions play a massive role - and then once people are accustomed to collective bargaining that eschews advancement based on merit - it becomes a political cesspool.

re: #116 MandyManners

How did Chicago become this corrupt? When did it start? Has anyone tried to root it out?

By my calculations, it began on August 12, 1833.

re: #69 lawhawk

Where does political horse trading end and play to pay begin? Is a promise to help you raise a million bucks for your next campaign in exchange for your vote on a bill OK? Is the same offer in exchange for appointing your friend to a board or the Senate not OK?

I am listening to the local news right now and they are saying Blago tried to trade the senate seat for cash. I have seen nothing to indicate this. He was talking about money for his warchest.

re: #104 gmsc

Maybe you just get him a prostitute to "entertain" him at his party. I understand he enjoys solicitation.

Good plan. I'm going to call Eliot Spitzer right now for Ashley Dupre's phone number. Now that's the gift that keeps on giving.

re: #119 reine.de.tout

I don't know. If a bribe is offered, I think there's a pretty fair chance that one is going to jail.

Or at least have a lot of explaining to do!

Forget Chicago Rep. Jesse Jackson Jr.
Where is Keyser Söze?

/and the rest of the usual suspects...

re: #119 reine.de.tout

I'm not a lawyer.
But I think there is some legal reason why people are told they are not a "target" of an investigation (or have to be told if they are indeed a "target").

So if that is what he was told, then it would be true, I think.

Fifth Amendment?

re: #112 garycooper

Oh, this is getting too rich! Rev. "Cut His Nuts Off" Jackson was trying to buy Obama's Senate seat?

You can't make this stuff up. It HAS to be true! :)

It was Nutcutter Jr. Jr. that was interested in the seat.

re: #118 maddogg

Actually, it makes sense, he has settled among his peers.

It's why he didn't raise eyebrows in his neighborhood.

re: #133 reine.de.tout

Ok, thanks for clarification.
But if he is told he is "not a target" of a particular investigation, then would he have any reason to doubt that was the truth?

They get to lie or withold the truth all they want. Hehehe.

Boy- this is more entertaining than watching all the court proceedings in FL and dimpled chad counting in Dade. 0bama beat Gore hands down in whipping up a shit storm before inauguration.

re: #119 reine.de.tout

I'm not a lawyer.
But I think there is some legal reason why people are told they are not a "target" of an investigation (or have to be told if they are indeed a "target").

So if that is what he was told, then it would be true, I think.

Its called a "proffer letter" at least that is what I have seen it called. I am sure each has different terms and conditions that reflect the case at hand, but it essentially says that you will help with an investigation and that you are not currently a target of that investigation.

re: #131 Racer X

Ok, now THAT tickled me.

Oh, for SURE!

re: #124 Hard Right

He isn't a target...of that investigation. They could launch a seperate one.

You can go into an office for a friendly voluntary chat as "not a target" and an hour later they can say "you are now a target" and arrest your sorry ass.

re: #124 Hard Right

He isn't a target...of that investigation. They could launch a seperate one.

This has more tentacles than a hundred octopi.

re: #96 Opinionated

Williams Ayers is beginning to look like the most upstanding famous person in Illinois.

HAHAHHAAHAHHAHHAAHAHAHAHAHA

Great, now I need to come up with a T Shirt befitting "shakedown junior"

any suggestions ?

re: #128 yma o hyd

Heh - I wasn't aiming to compare politicians - I was thinking more about the methods our Police is so fond of using.
Oh - did I mention they had no warrant to search his office in Parliament? But were nodded through by NuLab officials?

Whassa matter - have you no special anti-terrorist police?

///

We didn't have the IRA bombing Harrods, either.

We just let bar owners collect for them. Grrr.

re: #119 reine.de.tout

I'm not a lawyer.
But I think there is some legal reason why people are told they are not a "target" of an investigation (or have to be told if they are indeed a "target").

So if that is what he was told, then it would be true, I think.

It's worth hearing from the FBI what its take on Jackson Jr. is. That's why I'm a bit slow to condemn.

Could very well turn out that Jackson was working with federal investigators throughout.

re: #116 MandyManners

How did Chicago become this corrupt? When did it start? Has anyone tried to root it out?

I don't remember any history about Chicago not being corrupt. I think it has been corrupt forever.

Everyone keep talking about how corrupt Chicago is. I'll grant you the premise, but remember that the capital of Illinois is Springfield, not Chicago.

re: #147 lifeofthemind

You can go into an office for a friendly voluntary chat as "not a target" and an hour later they can say "you are now a target" and arrest your sorry ass.

That too.
I'm thinking they may need him to testify and he'll get out of it that way.

re: #116 MandyManners

How did Chicago become this corrupt? When did it start? Has anyone tried to root it out?

Wasn't there some cop Costner who went after a mobster named De Niro?

re: #125 maddogg

There were a few years when things were cleaner in Chicago, but then the Feds got Capone...

Kinda' like once Tito was gone, all hell broke loose in Yugoslavia?

re: #135 gmsc

By my calculations, it began on August 12, 1833.

What happened that night?

re: #157 MandyManners

Kinda' like once Tito was gone, all hell broke loose in Yugoslavia?

Exactly!

re: #157 MandyManners

Kinda' like once Tito was gone, all hell broke loose in Yugoslavia?

Germaine dropped the ball?

re: #159 MandyManners

What happened that night?

It was a dark and stormy night . . .

re: #129 A Kiwi Infidel

You're kidding, right?

Petty thieves are more upstanding that Jackson Sr., because at least they're petty about it.

It's not a high bar.

re: #116 MandyManners

How did Chicago become this corrupt? When did it start? Has anyone tried to root it out?

I grew up in Chicago and I don't remember an aura of stench. An aura of machine politics certainly but I think it's fair to say that Chicago had a reputation as being a city that 'worked'. Of course its been controlled by the Daley's all my life.
I would venture a guess and say that what we're seeing here is likely to be evident in all large urban centers and not just exclusive to Chicago. It's just their turn under the microscope. Not excusing it, just beyond my brainpower to figure it out...maybe the dynamics of too many rats in the cage...

re: #119 reine.de.tout

I'm not a lawyer.
But I think there is some legal reason why people are told they are not a "target" of an investigation (or have to be told if they are indeed a "target").

So if that is what he was told, then it would be true, I think.

I may be wrong, but police are allowed to lie in order to get information. It would be interesting to know if he is read his Miranda rights when he goes to visit the FBI.

There are so many layers of corruption that if the prosecutors and media do their jobs, there could be frogmarches from here until 2020 and Chicago will still be corrupt.

But I have time.

Obama can only pretend for so long he's not part of the machine that put him where he is. It's just not credible. Oh, the media will try, but nobody believes them any more anyway.

re: #159 MandyManners

What happened that night?

re: #144 Sharmuta

Boy- this is more entertaining than watching all the court proceedings in FL and dimpled chad counting in Dade. 0bama beat Gore hands down in whipping up a shit storm before inauguration.

A BILLION up-dings!

re: #152 Cognito

It's worth hearing from the FBI what its take on Jackson Jr. is. That's why I'm a bit slow to condemn.

Could very well turn out that Jackson was working with federal investigators throughout.

omg, you are you kidding? You are actually stating you think he was a CI? That is some powerful aid you are quaffing. . .

re: #138 Dianna

I don't know. If a bribe is offered, I think there's a pretty fair chance that one is going to jail.

Or at least have a lot of explaining to do!

Well, I would agree with you.

Maybe in this case they are focusing on Blago, the top guy, for numerous things, not just this one.

And, actually - is it illegal for a politician to help another politician in fund-raising efforts?

So whatever Jackson did might be sort of on the edge of what is illegal and so they want to focus efforts on Blago.

Also, as someone indicated above - they could start a separate investigation of Jackson, if he is not a "target" of this one.

re: #109 jcm

That Rezko character sounds pretty shady.

I sure am glad he didn't give $300k to a sitting US senator who was later elected president. That would be suspicious!

From Wikipedia's entry on Chicago:

In February 1856, the Chesbrough plan for the building of Chicago's and the United States' first comprehensive sewerage system was approved by the Common Council.

...and vice versa.

re: #162 Creeping Eruption

It was a dark and stormy night . . .

The night Chicago died...

re: #153 CapeCoddah

I don't remember any history about Chicago not being corrupt. I think it has been corrupt forever.

But, WHY? Is it something about Lake Michigan?

re: #169 DisturbedEma

omg, you are you kidding? You are actually stating you think he was a CI? That is some powerful aid you are quaffing. . .

No, I'm not stating that.

re: #156 Spare O'Lake

Wasn't there some cop Costner who went after a mobster named De Niro?

Yeah, and Costner had a cop working for him named Sean Connery. He got wasted in his apartment on Racine Street. They got to ride horses too.

re: #150 Adrenalyn

Great, now I need to come up with a T Shirt befitting "shakedown junior"

any suggestions ?

Your shirts are hilarious. Might I suggest "Jesse Jackson Jr.'s Rainbow Coalition" with images of our pretty new pastel money.

re: #135 gmsc

By my calculations, it began on August 12, 1833.

Before, first they had to whack opponents of incorporation, then buy votes, then put the mayor's office up for bid.

/

re: #154 gmsc

Everyone keep talking about how corrupt Chicago is. I'll grant you the premise, but remember that the capital of Illinois is Springfield, not Chicago.

The sewer runs straight between the two. Ask anyone about the stink coming off the cal-sag canal as you drive down I-55

re: #157 MandyManners

Kinda' like once Tito was gone, all hell broke loose in Yugoslavia?

It actually took about ten years. They kept expecting Josip Broz to jump out from behind a curtain or something.

So now Jesse admits being "Candidate #5."

re: #175 Cognito

No, I'm not stating that.

How else would he be assisting? Deputy? Please, do you have ANY real knowledge, or what. . .

re: #154 gmsc

Everyone keep talking about how corrupt Chicago is. I'll grant you the premise, but remember that the capital of Illinois is Springfield, not Chicago.

But, doesn't the largest center of population have enormous influence in every state capit0l?

That is not the Jesse Jackson Jr. I knew! How soon before we hear The (Corrupt) One say that?

Another to be thrown under the Obama bus!

re: #169 DisturbedEma

omg, you are you kidding? You are actually stating you think he was a CI? That is some powerful aid you are quaffing. . .

Quaffing a tankard of cool-aid? (Always wanted to work "tankard" into a post.)

If you just cover your ears and holler Hope! Change! at the top of your lungs it'll be alright...

re: #171 DeafDog

That Rezko character sounds pretty shady.

I sure am glad he didn't give $300k to a sitting US senator who was later elected president. That would be suspicious!

Couldn't have happened, media would have been all over a story like that...
///

re: #152 Cognito

It's worth hearing from the FBI what its take on Jackson Jr. is. That's why I'm a bit slow to condemn.

Could very well turn out that Jackson was working with federal investigators throughout.

That could be. We don't really have enough information about jackson's role.

re: #156 Spare O'Lake

Wasn't there some cop Costner who went after a mobster named De Niro?

And a baby buggy went OOPSI-DAIZIE down the stairs?

re: #153 CapeCoddah

I don't remember any history about Chicago not being corrupt. I think it has been corrupt forever.

It got better after I left...
/

re: #20 Racer X

Obama barely even knows the guy...he might have seen him around Chicago a few times...oh, and he's had a couple of conversations with his father.

/

re: #152 Cognito

I suspect that this might be related to Jessee's hatred of Obama. Wasn't Jesse caught on an open mic threatening to cut off Obama's prick or something? I suspect this has been brewing for quite some time.

re: #135 gmsc

By my calculations, it began on August 12, 1833.

It's a union thing - merit plays no part in advancement hence it is all political - and the people reek of desperation - living in a place like chicago.

Look at Detroit, look at Philly, look at New Jersey, look at New York - lots of aggrieved people with an entitlement mentality - and these are very old political areas.

re: #151 Dianna

We didn't have the IRA bombing Harrods, either.

We just let bar owners collect for them. Grrr.

Yeah well - that was then, and we only had 'special branch' of Scotland Yard then.

This is the brand-new, NuLab anti-terrorist police, with new laws, which so far have not been used against terrorist suspects but -just as we said! - against normal citizens.
The IRA would ahve been fine under these new laws, just like the jihadists are fine ...

Politicians - bah!

re: #170 reine.de.tout

And, actually - is it illegal for a politician to help another politician in fund-raising efforts?

No- they do it all the time. Bring in a big shot name to raise money at a dinner, etc. like President Bush. My guess is Palin is the dream girl for this sort of event now.

re: #160 maddogg

Stupid Capone shoulda' paid his taxes.

Suddenly Eliot Spitzer is spared the laughingstock politician of 2008 award.

What did the bum say to the tramp?

I was hopin' fer a little change.

re: #134 DistantThunder

A radio host asked why certain states are always so corrupt. Clearly the unions play a massive role - and then once people are accustomed to collective bargaining that eschews advancement based on merit - it becomes a political cesspool.

The most corrupt places - Chicago, Washington D.C., Illinois, Louisiana - do not have competing political parties.

re: #159 MandyManners

What happened that night?

re: #162 Creeping Eruption

It was a dark and stormy night . . .

On that date, the town of Chicago was formally organized.

So, Creeping Eruption basically had it right.

re: #174 MandyManners

But, WHY? Is it something about Lake Michigan?

I dont know, I guess it is what it is. Boston and Mass in general is a nightmare, also, I would guess we are certainly among the top 5 corrupt states, but Chicago has always been the mecca of corruption in American politics.

re: #183 MandyManners

But, doesn't the largest center of population have enormous influence in every state capit0l?

Bingo...Illinois is a red state if you don't count Chicago. Unfortunately you have to.

Gosh, what a surprise.

I can't wait to find out who all the other numerical characters in this saga are. Apparently, Blowdryovitch didn't meet personally with riff-raff. Whoever Candidates 1-5 and 5+, Contractors 1-7, Union Officials 1-3 and Gangsters 2-127 are, they aren't gonna be members of the unwashed, unknown public at large.

I'd guess that today, on your approach into O'Hare, you can smell the sweat from 20,000 feet.

re: #161 Hard Right

Germaine dropped the ball?

Santita Jackson. Tito Jackson. LaToya Jackson.

re: #205 MandyManners

Santita Jackson. Tito Jackson. LaToya Jackson.

Jackson Browne

re: #205 MandyManners

Santita Jackson. Tito Jackson. LaToya Jackson.

Miss Jackson if you're NASTY. . .

thank God for obama! he's cleaning up chicago politics!

re: #95 doppelganglander

And I forgot! Is there still time to get him a gift certificate for The Law Offices of Gary Martin Hays? Or should I go with hair care products?

I believe that his prior representation was by the offices of Dewey, Cheatem, and Howe.

You don't wake up one morning and decide you will offer the Governor a bribe for a very prominent Senate seat.

You have to know for certain that it is an accepted part of a certain political culture and that everyone is in on it and yours is only one bid.

You have to think that Obama is remarkably naive and lucky to believe he came as a success from that exact milieu and didn't know and experience its corruption.

At best he kept silent. When silent is itself corruption.

re: #192 Killgore Trout

I suspect that this might be related to Jessee's hatred of Obama. Wasn't Jesse caught on an open mic threatening to cut off Obama's prick or something? I suspect this has been brewing for quite some time.

Yes, but wasn't Jesse's son active in the Obama campaign in some way?

The headline makes it sound like JJ Jr. "offered" as if he was not first "approached."

re: #162 Creeping Eruption

It was a dark and stormy night . . .

the rain fell in torrents.

The Postal Service has issued a new stamp commemorating corruption in Chicago- it costs $.43 but you'll never make it stick.

re: #214 Peacekeeper

The Postal Service has issued a new stamp commemorating corruption in Chicago- it costs $.43 but you'll never make it stick.

cHA cHING UPDING!

re: #164 LGoPs

I grew up in Chicago and I don't remember an aura of stench. An aura of machine politics certainly but I think it's fair to say that Chicago had a reputation as being a city that 'worked'. Of course its been controlled by the Daley's all my life.
I would venture a guess and say that what we're seeing here is likely to be evident in all large urban centers and not just exclusive to Chicago. It's just their turn under the microscope. Not excusing it, just beyond my brainpower to figure it out...maybe the dynamics of too many rats in the cage...

Maybe Chicago needs its own Rudy.

re: #184 Land Shark

That is not the Jesse Jackson Jr. I knew! How soon before we hear The (Corrupt) One say that?

Another to be thrown under the Obama bus!

Yes, the bus is gassed up, warm, and starting to roll!

Let it Roll!

re: #210 Opinionated

You don't wake up one morning and decide you will offer the Governor a bribe for a very prominent Senate seat.

You have to know for certain that it is an accepted part of a certain political culture and that everyone is in on it and yours is only one bid.

You have to think that Obama is remarkably naive and lucky to believe he came as a success from that exact milieu and didn't know and experience its corruption.

At best he kept silent. When silent is itself corruption.

You're not implying 0bama is good at ''moderate Muslim" techniques of being quiet despite horrors, are you?

re: #211 reine.de.tout

Yes, but wasn't Jesse's son active in the Obama campaign in some way?

Hmmm, yes I think he was.

re: #216 MandyManners

Maybe Chicago needs its own Rudy.

I did not notice the corruption until I started to work, and until I became interested in politics. . .

re: #189 MandyManners

And a baby buggy went OOPSI-DAIZIE down the stairs?

L...O...L
I...n... s...l...o...w... m...o...t...i...o...n.

John Cox with a timely diversion

re: #183 MandyManners

But, doesn't the largest center of population have enormous influence in every state capit0l?

Of course they do. I'm just pointing out that people seem to think Chicago is where the governor is based, instead of Springfield.

It is funny to look at a U.S. map and realize how many state capitals are small towns, especially compared the major economic centers in their respective towns.

re: #169 DisturbedEma

omg, you are you kidding? You are actually stating you think he was a CI? That is some powerful aid you are quaffing. . .

And, shit he's smoking.

re: #196 MandyManners

Stupid Capone shoulda' paid his taxes.

Actually, until Capone's bookkeeper turned states evidence, Capone had no income and owned nothing, and therefore owed the Feds nothing.
Actually, none of us owe the Feds anything, we just stand still while they roll us, then they tell us to feel patriotic cause we stood still while we were extorted.
/feeling like a damn rebel.

re: #152 Cognito

It's worth hearing from the FBI what its take on Jackson Jr. is. That's why I'm a bit slow to condemn.

Could very well turn out that Jackson was working with federal investigators throughout.

Naive, at best. If that were so, he would not now be giving a statement saying that they have “asked me to come in and share with them my insights and thoughts about the selection process.”

He would be neck high in "NO COMMENTS"

re: #194 yma o hyd

Yeah well - that was then, and we only had 'special branch' of Scotland Yard then.

This is the brand-new, NuLab anti-terrorist police, with new laws, which so far have not been used against terrorist suspects but -just as we said! - against normal citizens.
The IRA would ahve been fine under these new laws, just like the jihadists are fine ...

Politicians - bah!

Y'all really ought to think about getting yourselves a real Constitution and Bill of Rights.

re: #182 DisturbedEma

How else would he be assisting? Deputy? Please, do you have ANY real knowledge, or what. . .

Might want to read the post again. I never said I think any such thing. My point is that we shouldn't assume what we don't know -- which you've illustrated, live.

I don't mean to be harsh about it. But really, if you're so quick to attack, it's easy to run past the facts.

Chicago - A City of Political Predators

re: #216 MandyManners

Maybe Chicago needs its own Rudy.

Oh, yes please.

re: #123 gmsc

Where's Mrs. O'Leary's cow when you need her?

There was a rumor that Mrs. O'Leary's Cow received a kickback from the construction unions.

re: #197 Peacekeeper

Suddenly Eliot Spitzer is spared the laughingstock politician of 2008 award.

Is it fair enough to declare a tie?

re: #194 yma o hyd

Well, considering all the complaints about Special Branch...

"This is a reform! Really!"

re: #192 Killgore Trout

To parapharase General Anthony McAuliffe, it was Obama's nuts - not his penis - that needed trimming, according to Jessie.

re: #225 MandyManners

And, shit he's smoking.

Yeah, did you see him say "that is not what I said". . .

re: #210 Opinionated

You don't wake up one morning and decide you will offer the Governor a bribe for a very prominent Senate seat.

You have to know for certain that it is an accepted part of a certain political culture and that everyone is in on it and yours is only one bid.

You have to think that Obama is remarkably naive and lucky to believe he came as a success from that exact milieu and didn't know and experience its corruption.

At best he kept silent. When silent is itself corruption.

Correct. Jackson didn't say: "I wonder if the Guv will take some $$ for Obama's senate seat?"

It was: "I wonder HOW MUCH $$ the Guv will want for Obama's senate seat?"

re: #173 bmorte

The night Chicago died...

re: #211 reine.de.tout

Reine.de.tout = nothing at all? all about nothing?

re: #206 father_of_10

Jackson Browne

Reggie Jackson

OT: Video: Huckabee battles Stewart over gay marriage

re: #195 Sharmuta

No- they do it all the time. Bring in a big shot name to raise money at a dinner, etc. like President Bush. My guess is Palin is the dream girl for this sort of event now.

Well, then.
We know Jackson offered to help Blago with fund-raising.

Do we really know anything more of Jackson's "role" in this than that right now?

What about old man Daley? Was he this corrupt, or was it more patronage?

re: #197 Peacekeeper

Suddenly Eliot Spitzer is spared the laughingstock politician of 2008 award.

They are both major state governors forced out of office.

I think we need to be big enough to considetr co-winners this year.

re: #241 Hard Right

Reggie Jackson

Action Jackson

re: #227 sattv4u2

Naive, at best. If that were so, he would not now be giving a statement saying that they have “asked me to come in and share with them my insights and thoughts about the selection process.”

He would be neck high in "NO COMMENTS"

ya got a point, there.

re: #241 Hard Right

Reggie Jackson

Reggie Hammond (brings it full circle to prison!)

[Link: www.imdb.com...]

re: #242 Killgore Trout

OT: Video: Huckabee battles Stewart over gay marriage

Bare knuckle? To the death? Cage match?

re: #241 Hard Right

Reggie Jackson

The Jackson 5

re: #240 bmorte

Reine.de.tout = nothing at all? all about nothing?

Queen of Everything.
It's hubby who is the Roi de Rien.

re: #246 father_of_10

Action Jackson

"Shoeless" Joe Jackson

re: #180 Dianna

It actually took about ten years. They kept expecting Josip Broz to jump out from behind a curtain or something.

Reminds me of the SNL skit about Ceaucescue's funeral.

re: #248 sattv4u2

Reggie Hammond (brings it full circle to prison!)

[Link: www.imdb.com...]

Aww man, you closed the circle.

Rezko claimed to not have been giving up info on Blog nor Obama- now his name appear over 100 times in the criminal complaint against Blogo - so Rezko has been singing like a bird - and was clearly lying when he said he didn't have any guilty knowledge about Blogo - so what about guilty knowledge about Obama?

re: #249 Hard Right

It's pretty brutal. Huckabee comes off really bad.

re: #252 Creeping Eruption

"Shoeless" Joe Jackson

Michael Jackson

re: #250 DaddyG

The Jackson 5

Andrew Jackson

re: #256 Killgore Trout

It's pretty brutal. Huckabee comes off really bad.

Par for the course.

Man, on this one I didn't even get to enjoy that little mental "OOOH! SCANDALOUS!" sensation. My brain simply registered; "Figures." That I register precisely ZERO surprise when reading this . . .well, I guess it's because I've gotten used to years of shady dealings, race baiting, and intellectual dishonesty from Rev. Jackson.

It would almost surprise me more if he was working some sort of sting operation here, than to hear about him making an offer for the seat. That's sad.

re: #227 sattv4u2

Naive, at best. If that were so, he would not now be giving a statement saying that they have “asked me to come in and share with them my insights and thoughts about the selection process.”

He would be neck high in "NO COMMENTS"

Has he made a comment today? Yesterday? Where is JJ Jr.?

re: #237 DisturbedEma

Yeah, did you see him say "that is not what I said". . .

Slow down. Read more closely.

Again, I'm not out to embarrass you, but you're making it hard by launching half-formed attacks.