Rod Blagojevich, who rode a wave of replacing George Ryan (now in prison) to clean things up in Illinois, received a phone call at daybreak informing him of a warrant for his arrest. US Attorney, Patrick Fitzgerald, informed the public later of the charges -- basically using power for bribery in order to secure a position for himself and a bigger income for his wife. He put a dollar sign on the person who was to replace Obama in the Senate.The sadness for us Illinoisans is that this arrest means that we could well have two former governors in prison.
How do people with this sort of character rise so high in our political system?
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It is sad, especially as one who grew up in Illinois. The nice thing about it is that it is recognized and dealt with, unlike politics in Thailand (where we currently live). Here it would only be dealt with if he angered someone farther up the food chain...
I think Rick is right. These men are part of a culture and products of a culture. Corruption is the pool they grow in and swim in.
I also find it interesting that cities and states that are most viewed as the most corrupt also seem to have the highest taxes. Last time I checked Chicago has the distinguished honor of having the highest sales tax in the nation at 10%. It just goes to show that poorly run governments need more and more funding since there are more and more people who have to get taken care of as part of the process.
Mark Baker-Wright
December 10, 2008 11:38 AM
I watched that movie FOR THE FIRST TIME last week and was astounded they made it in 1939!!! Nothing new under the sun.
I admire the courage of Patrick Fitzgerald as he wades into the muddy waters of Chicago politics. May God protect him. I also find it amusing how these Chicago politicians are acting surprised today at Blagojevich's actions, as if they are so innocent themselves. Yeah, I'm cynical. But they give me good reason to be.
Lately I have wondered if there is any politician out there who wouldn't be locked up for a considerable amount of time if we knew the dirt on them as well. Is this guy actually THAT bad, or did he just get caught?
Soulstice (14), are you being facetious in your concluding question?
qb
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