Specter Proposes Special Prosecutor To Investigate U.S. Attorney Scandal
Specter Proposes Special Prosecutor To Investigate U.S. Attorney Scandal
The Bush administration has repeatedly cited executive privilege claims to block Congress from investigating the U.S. attorney scandal. Most recently, the White House said that “the Justice Department will never be allowed to pursue contempt charges initiated by Congress against White House officials once the president has invoked executive privilege.”
Today, Sen. Arlen Specter (R-PA) noted that under Bush’s broad claim of executive privilege, “the president’s word stands and the constitutional authority and responsibility for congressional oversight is gone.”
He added that one alternative he has been “exploring” is the appointment of a special prosecutor. “The attorney general has the authority to appoint a special prosecutor,” said Specter. “You’re recused, but somebody else could do it. You’re recused because you know all of the principals. You have a conflict of interest. But doesn’t the president have an identical conflict of interest?” Watch it:
Georgetown Law Professor Neal Katyal, who advocates appointing a special prosecutor in this case, writes that the Bush administration “of course, has everything to fear from independent investigations, as Lewis Libby discovered. But that, ultimately, is what our system is about.”
Digg It!
Transcript:
Now, if that forecloses a determination of whether executive privilege has been properly imposed, then the president in that manner can stymie congressional oversight by simply saying there is executive privilege. Since we can’t take it to the court, the president’s word stands and the constitutional authority and responsibility for congressional oversight is gone.
Now, that is carrying this controversy to really an incredible level. If that is to happen, the president can run the government as he chooses, answer no questions, say it’s executive privilege. You can’t go to court, and the president’s word stands.
Now, we’ve been exploring some alternatives. And I’ll be asking you about them.
The attorney general has the authority to appoint a special prosecutor. You’re recused, but somebody else could do it. You’re recused because you know all of the principals. You have a conflict of interest.
But doesn’t the president have an identical conflict of interest?
Can the president foreclose the Congress for moving ahead and making an effort at having a judicial determination as to the propriety of the claim of executive privilege?
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126 Responses to “Specter Proposes Special Prosecutor To Investigate U.S. Attorney Scandal”
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Then DO IT, for crying out loud.
July 24th, 2007 at 1:51 pmyeah but if they get Ken Starr, you know they are just going to bury the whole thing.
July 24th, 2007 at 1:53 pmOh please. Specter will NEVER ACTUALLY DO THIS. Never. Dont even waste your time with this post.
July 24th, 2007 at 1:53 pmImpeach him first!!
July 24th, 2007 at 1:54 pmAnother whining thread?
Geez, TP...
Looks like the libs are in trouble!!!
July 24th, 2007 at 1:54 pmwhat is the point when the courts are stacked against the Constitution-Bush would just commute the criminal again.
July 24th, 2007 at 1:56 pmMust the Special Prosecutor be appointed by the DoJ? Gonzo would just appoint some f*cking brown-noser.
July 24th, 2007 at 1:57 pmYou missed the critical last sentence by Specter.
"These are all valid legitimate Constitutional reasons that mandate a Special Prosecutor whixch is why I wil not vote for it. However I did stay at a Holiday Inn Express last night."
July 24th, 2007 at 1:58 pmYES! Now just effing DO IT!
July 24th, 2007 at 1:58 pmwhat is the point when the courts are stacked against the Constitution-Bush would just commute the criminal again.
Comment by jeanruss — July 24, 2007 @ 1:56 pm
Two wrongs do not make a right.
July 24th, 2007 at 1:58 pmFitZ Where are U?
July 24th, 2007 at 1:59 pmLooks like the libs are in trouble!!!
Comment by Thrasymachos
It's ok if you're nervous about your King's court fallingin on itself.
You should be.
Where's CT? Did your little friend get himself banned? Or he got himself a girlfriend?
July 24th, 2007 at 1:59 pmI hope the librul media actually reports on Gonzo's testimony today.
He made a complete ass of himself.
July 24th, 2007 at 2:01 pmDon't worry, Karl Rove will rescue these floundering "conservatives" just like he did in 2006. The GOP is circling the drain . . .
July 24th, 2007 at 2:03 pmShe came in a plain brown wrapper in the mail.
Comment by Martha Stewart
It's a good thing!
July 24th, 2007 at 2:04 pmAnother whining thread?
Geez, TP…
Looks like the libs are in trouble!!!
Comment by Thrasymachos
If libs = citizens trying to uphold the constitution, then I guess we are in trouble. Since you facist loving neocons are intent on ignoring it.
July 24th, 2007 at 2:05 pmI hope the librul media actually reports on Gonzo’s testimony today.
He made a complete ass of himself.
Comment by Martha Stewart — July 24, 2007 @ 2:01 pm
Are you kidding? He protected his superiors with a masterful performance. Academy Award quality!
July 24th, 2007 at 2:05 pmIf libs = citizens trying to uphold the constitution, then I guess we are in trouble. Since you facist loving neocons are intent on ignoring it.
Comment by shane — July 24, 2007 @ 2:05 pm
Well it's only a damn piece of paper, right?
July 24th, 2007 at 2:06 pmI don't think Impeachment would hurt the Democrats one bit. The whole country (world?) is holding its breath, worrying about what illegal, rash act will happen next.
What in the world is their reluctance? It's beginning to suggest there's too much to hide on both sides. Failing to use the Constitutional provisions to stop the Executive Branch from usurping all the power is starting to make Congress look, not just weak, but guilty.
July 24th, 2007 at 2:06 pmAvoid the DOJ entirely:
http://poljunk.gloriousnoise.com/2007/07/lock_em_up.php#more
Frank Askin, a professor at Rutgers School of Law, and director of the Rutgers Constitutional Litigation Clinic, says the answer is simple: arrest them yourself.
Rather than relying on a clearly compromised Justice Department to compel officials to testify—which, “leaves Congress beholden to hostile executive branch officials to enforce its prerogatives on exactly the type of charges that the administration said this week it would not allow officials to pursueâ€â€”simply direct the Senate sergeant-at-arms to take custody of those who defy congressional subpoenas.
July 24th, 2007 at 2:06 pmWhere’s CT? Did your little friend get himself banned? Or he got himself a girlfriend?
Comment by Zooey
Zooey! I didn't know you believed in miracles. Girlfriend, indeed!
July 24th, 2007 at 2:07 pmIf libs = citizens trying to uphold the constitution, then I guess we are in trouble. Since you facist loving neocons are intent on ignoring it.
Comment by shane — July 24, 2007 @ 2:05 pm
July 24th, 2007 at 2:08 pm--------------------------------
Some of the Constitution is just plain silly in a time of war.
Where’s CT? Did your little friend get himself banned? Or he got himself a girlfriend?
Comment by Zooey
More likely mommy grounded him for spanking that bad little monkey too much.
July 24th, 2007 at 2:09 pmYeah baby! Prosecute 'em all. I want voters to lose all faith in government. Then maybe we'll stop asking it to do so much for us.
July 24th, 2007 at 2:09 pmSome of the Constitution is just plain silly in a time of war.
Comment by Thrasymachos — July 24, 2007 @ 2:08 pm
Find yourself a nice country without such a pesky document.
July 24th, 2007 at 2:10 pmAll of the Constitution is just plain needed in a time of force authorization.
July 24th, 2007 at 2:10 pmSome of the Constitution is just plain silly in a time of war.
Comment by Thrasymachos
See, this is the kind of verbage that should make an American guilty of treason.
Okay, now click your boots together and practice, "I vas jutht following orderz."
July 24th, 2007 at 2:11 pmSome of the Constitution is just plain silly in a time of war.
Comment by Thrasymachos
___________________________
Which is why I say "If we give the presidency all the power it needs to fight a war, what is to stop a President from starting a war to get all the power he wants?".
The U.S. Constitution is NEVER "silly", plain or adorned. It is the basis of our wonderful democracy which, apparently, you and others like you don't like. Yet, you are the same people who throw around "hate America" and "unpatriotic" at progressives.
July 24th, 2007 at 2:13 pmYeah baby! Prosecute ‘em all. I want voters to lose all faith in government. Then maybe we’ll stop asking it to do so much for us.
Comment by Cynicon Implant
Finally, an honest statement of position on your part. (You didn't project a false position onto us and then attack us for our "hypocrisy", or "cowardice", or... you get the idea...). I have to say, you're not as nasty as "God Help Us". Perhaps there's a book you can read, or a class...
I don't think you really want voters to lose ALL faith in government. (That would be anarchy, and you DON'T want that. Ever see a riot?)
July 24th, 2007 at 2:13 pmSometimes I'm silly in a time of war too. I like to put on my Greek outfit and march around Mom's basement to the Mickey Mouse Club theme song. That's okay with you libs, right?
July 24th, 2007 at 2:14 pmYet, you are the same people who throw around “hate America†and “unpatriotic†at progressives.
Comment by PatrioticLiberalChristian(PLC)
Excellent, reply, PLC. The Consititution is never more important or valid than in a time of war. It's when we need it all the more!
Much like Mr P's infamous "Moslem" moment, Thrasymachos just stepped iin it. Remember that comment - "just plain silly" - we can use it to beat him like a tin drum!
July 24th, 2007 at 2:16 pmSpector talks a good story.....it's his follow through that's the problem.
July 24th, 2007 at 2:17 pmYeah baby! Prosecute ‘em all. I want voters to lose all faith in government. Then maybe we’ll stop asking it to do so much for us.
Comment by Cynicon Implant — July 24, 2007 @ 2:09 pm
There it is in a nutshell. The agenda of the hard right. Destroy government by destroying faith in government.
The moral bankruptcy of this position is sickening.
July 24th, 2007 at 2:17 pmSometimes I’m silly in a time of war too. I like to put on my Greek outfit and march around Mom’s basement to the Mickey Mouse Club theme song. That’s okay with you libs, right?
Comment by Thrasymacho
You just might find your true inner self, Mr P. Knock yourself out.
July 24th, 2007 at 2:17 pmSome of the Constitution is just plain silly in a time of war.
Even this assclown can't REALLY believe that......can he/she? Oh wait, it watches billo and listens to rusher, so guess it can.
Just cause the Constitution has worked well for over 230 years and got us through 4 major wars, guess it is time to change things around.
July 24th, 2007 at 2:17 pmThe moral bankruptcy of this position is sickening.
Comment by VerbalKint
And scary.
July 24th, 2007 at 2:18 pmVery well put PLC in post #28. I'd like to see your post (or the many that are similar in substance) be the one that is shown as an example of the type of posting on TP.
July 24th, 2007 at 2:18 pmHate Hate Hate. - libs
---------------
**Yawn**
When do the intelligent libs arrive?
Oh... nevermind...
July 24th, 2007 at 2:19 pmSometimes I’m silly in a time of war too. I like to put on my Greek outfit and march around Mom’s basement to the Mickey Mouse Club theme song. That’s okay with you libs, right?
Comment by Thrasymacho
No problem whatsoever. When we've all said you do that in the past, you've denied it endlessly. It's just flat-out refreshing to hear you own it up front!
July 24th, 2007 at 2:20 pmPerhaps there’s a book you can read, or a class…
Comment by The Republic of Stupidity
You're not the first here to suggest this to me. What I don't understand is why most of the folks here assume that conservatives are less informed or even just plain stupid. I can assure you that neither applies to me.
But you're right -- I don't want anarchy. I just want more realistic expectations for our government.
July 24th, 2007 at 2:20 pmHate Hate Hate. - libs
—————
**Yawn**
When do the intelligent libs arrive?
Oh… nevermind…
Comment by Thrasymachos
Reverting to the mean, yet again.
Once a troll, always a troll.
July 24th, 2007 at 2:21 pmThe U.S. Constitution is NEVER “sillyâ€, plain or adorned. It is the basis of our wonderful democracy which, apparently, you and others like you don’t like. Yet, you are the same people who throw around “hate America†and “unpatriotic†at progressives.
Comment by PatrioticLiberalChristian(PLC)
Maintaining a democracy is hard work, and hard choices must be made. Minds must be open to the possibility of difference, and there must be respect for all people.
That's too hard for these wingnuts -- too much thinking outside of themselves.
July 24th, 2007 at 2:22 pmHate Hate Hate. - libs
Comment by Thrasymachos
There's next to no profanity on this thread this am. You're the one calling the Constitution "silly", we're defending it. Makes you the "hater" and us patriotic, huh?
July 24th, 2007 at 2:23 pmSpecter's job is to talk tough and then run the other way. He's the senator from Fake-Out. His cancer may have been a manifestation of his conscience. His brush with mortality hasn't changed his behavior one bit; I wonder what they have on him, or is he just too broken too change?
July 24th, 2007 at 2:23 pmHate Hate Hate. - libs
—————
**Yawn**
When do the intelligent libs arrive?
Oh… nevermind…
Comment by Thrasymachos — July 24, 2007 @ 2:19 pm
Shouldn't you be leaving the country by now? I hear Zimbabwe's really nice this time of year. And they've got the kind of president you'd love!
July 24th, 2007 at 2:24 pmThere’s next to no profanity on this thread this am. - Stupid lib.
------------------------------------------------
Okay.
July 24th, 2007 at 2:24 pmThere’s next to no profanity on this thread this am. You’re the one calling the Constitution “sillyâ€, we’re defending it. Makes you the “hater†and us patriotic, huh?
Comment by The Republic of Stupidity
He's lazy.
July 24th, 2007 at 2:24 pmComment by NoOneYouKnow
Or care to, from the content of that post. Almost impossible to say where you stand on anything, other than you don't like Specter. Kind of a bunch of meaningless digs.
July 24th, 2007 at 2:25 pmThrasymachos, did you get someone to read Plato to you? Does it come in a Classic Comics edition?
July 24th, 2007 at 2:26 pmStupid lib.
————————————————
Okay.
Comment by Thrasymachos
You're kind of losing me here. I say there's not much profanity here and that makes me a "stupid lib", but you're not spreading hate?
WTF???
July 24th, 2007 at 2:26 pmThis man has waffled since his boot lickin' days with the gipper. Specter is a crafty snake, for just when you think he might do something honorable and descent, he'll lick his finger, stick it in the air, and see which way the political flatulence is blowing, Then, without so much as blink, do an about-face--especially when he's trying to save his own hide.
He senior senator from my state, and one I've always voted against, for multifarious reasons. Consider, if you will, his pique about not "swearing-in" Gonzo the last time the senate called him on the carpet. So Mr. VO5 didn't really lie about the FBI snoopin' in our personal biz, now did he? Because he wasn't under oath... Go figure there Arlen.
And what about his performance on the Judiciary Committee during the Roberts and Alito confirmation hearings? The cost of freedom? Negotiable. The price for being a gold-plated, talk-out-both-sides-of-your-mouth, prevaricatin', confidence man? Name your price. He's got one. Right next to the hole in his soul where his scruples used to be.
He's not gonna impeach his bridge partner, come on! Now this whole things is some good political theater...
July 24th, 2007 at 2:26 pmComment by toasterhead — July 24, 2007 @ 2:24 pm
Nah, as long as the gov't isn't brown-nosing terrorists, I think I'll stay right here in the good ol' US of A!
July 24th, 2007 at 2:28 pmThere it is in a nutshell. The agenda of the hard right. Destroy government by destroying faith in government.
The moral bankruptcy of this position is sickening.
Comment by VerbalKint
Actually, the left has done more to destroy faith in government by promising that government can do more for people than it can possibly do. Remember that failed experiment called communism?
Your statement about moral bankruptcy reveals that government is your faith -- I suggest you try a real religion instead of worshipping at the altar of government.
July 24th, 2007 at 2:28 pmDoes it come in a Classic Comics edition?
Comment by Administrator
Hey, I had more than one friend who made it thru highschool doing book reports from Illustrated Classics comic books.
July 24th, 2007 at 2:28 pmDoes it come in a Classic Comics edition?
Comment by Administrator — July 24, 2007 @ 2:26 pm
July 24th, 2007 at 2:28 pm---------------------------------------
You wish!!!
spy programs are what come of confusing privacy with secrecy and covertness.
a by-product of the dumbing down of people, that they accept this inapt comparison.
One can have a strong interest in maintaining their privacy without having anything to hide.
This argument "if you have nothing to hide..." was also used by the Nazis. But of course, this administration has been running THAT playbook since day one.
Just last week, Chimpus Maximus signed yet another edict, this one fashioned after that which "allowed" Hitler to sieze the assets of Jews and other "undesireables". Google Executive Order: Blocking Property of Certain Persons Who Threaten Stabilization Efforts in Iraq.
Bear in mind that "threats" to "stabilization" are ill-defined if at all, and left entirely to the discretion of the decidenator.
But, I digress.... back to the point.... do NOT confuse an unwillingness to surrender privacy with having something to hide. The two are NOT the same.
Don't be bullied by this argument... it is fallacious and intended to put people on the defensive... in fact, a typical bully's argument.
July 24th, 2007 at 2:29 pmCilicon Implants complains that we think wingnuts are always stupid. He's right: sometimes Republicans are smart but sociopathic; sometimes they're brilliant but have absolutely no common sense; but all of them have big problems facing the truth.
July 24th, 2007 at 2:29 pm"Realistic expectations of government=government lets me do whatever I want while screwing Libs." Everything for me, nothing for you. I think we've got one of the sociopaths on the line.
This man has waffled since his boot lickin’ days with the gipper. Specter is a crafty snake, for just when you think he might do something honorable and descent, he’ll lick his finger, stick it in the air, and see which way the political flatulence is blowing, Then, without so much as blink, do an about-face–especially when he’s trying to save his own hide.
He's the senior senator from my state, and one I’ve always voted against, for multifarious reasons. Consider, if you will, his pique about not “swearing-in†Gonzo the last time the senate called him on the carpet. So Mr. VO5 didn’t really lie about the FBI snoopin’ in our personal biz, now did he? Because he wasn’t under oath… Go figure there Arlen.
And what about his performance on the Judiciary Committee during the Roberts and Alito confirmation hearings? The cost of freedom? Negotiable. The price for being a gold-plated, talk-out-both-sides-of-your-mouth, prevaricatin’, confidence man? Name your price. He’s got one. And a little coin purse right next to the hole in his soul where his scruples used to be.
He’s not gonna impeach his bridge partner, come on! Now this whole things is some good political theater…
July 24th, 2007 at 2:29 pmYour statement about moral bankruptcy reveals that government is your faith — I suggest you try a real religion instead of worshipping at the altar of government.
Comment by Cynicon Implant
How do you remember to breathe?
July 24th, 2007 at 2:30 pmActually, the left has done more to destroy faith in government by promising that government can do more for people than it can possibly do. Remember that failed experiment called communism?
Your statement about moral bankruptcy reveals that government is your faith — I suggest you try a real religion instead of worshipping at the altar of government.
Comment by Cynicon Implant
Riight, I remember the good old days of the United Communist States of America. Failed experiment, indeed.
Even your strawmen are laughing.
July 24th, 2007 at 2:30 pmHey, I had more than one friend who made it thru highschool doing book reports from Illustrated Classics comic books.
Comment by The Republic of Stupidity — July 24, 2007 @ 2:28 pm
Riverdale High? Archie and Jughead?
July 24th, 2007 at 2:31 pmInteresting tidbit
Attorneys in the United States may be appointed/hired particularly or employed generally by different branches of the government to investigate. When appointed/hired particularly by the Judicial Branch to investigate and, if justified, seek indictments in a particular judicial branch case, the attorney is called special prosecutor
So the courts appoint special prosecutors...Hmmm.
July 24th, 2007 at 2:33 pmI wish Mom would come down here and help me take off my leather greek suit. I hate getting stuck in it. Stupid libs.
July 24th, 2007 at 2:33 pmWHY WAS MY COMMENT DELETED TP?
ET TU?
July 24th, 2007 at 2:34 pmI imagine Gonzo will pick Harriet Miers.
July 24th, 2007 at 2:36 pmActually, the left has done more to destroy faith in government by promising that government can do more for people than it can possibly do. Remember that failed experiment called communism?
Your statement about moral bankruptcy reveals that government is your faith — I suggest you try a real religion instead of worshipping at the altar of government.
Comment by Cynicon Implant
Boy, oh boy, talk about a juicy one.
"The left" - just what does that mean? Such a vague term. So hard to rebutt or defend. Perhaps all social policies don't work, but some do. Please give us specifics to argue.
Communism is/was an economic theory that didn't work. No one defends strict textbook Communism here, or Stalinist politics. the 2 are intertwined, but Communism is an economic theory, whilst Stalinism is political.
"Faith", while usually ssociated w/ religion, also applies to many other topics and subjects. "Suggests that..." - a projection. A strawman. Creat a position, project it on your oppoenent, then attack him for it. (Pst... the comment about Communism was similar...)
A "real religion"? Pray to a Christian god for salvation in another lifetime, 'cause you ain't gittin' it here? Best line in the whole post!
July 24th, 2007 at 2:37 pmHey, I had more than one friend who made it thru highschool doing book reports from Illustrated Classics comic books.
Comment by The Republic of Stupidity — July 24, 2007 @ 2:28 pm
Why doesn't that surprise me? My friends just read the books. You know, actual learning. Which is Kryptonite to a wingnut, I know...
July 24th, 2007 at 2:38 pm"Remember that failed experiment called communism?"
Yeah, and what brought the Soviet Union down? Spending on the military. How much has Bush spent in Iraq this week? This is what happens when people ignore history: they repeat it.
July 24th, 2007 at 2:38 pmComment by toasterhead — July 24, 2007 @ 2:24 pm
Nah, as long as the gov’t isn’t brown-nosing terrorists, I think I’ll stay right here in the good ol’ US of A!
Comment by Thrasymachos — July 24, 2007 @ 2:28 pm
So when does your flight leave? If you agree with the U.S. Department of State that the PKK and the Mujaheddin e-Khalq are terrorist organizations, you should probably get going and soon, since we're actively recruiting their members to carry out attacks in Iran.
July 24th, 2007 at 2:38 pmAttorneys in the United States may be appointed/hired particularly or employed generally by different branches of the government to investigate. When appointed/hired particularly by the Judicial Branch to investigate and, if justified, seek indictments in a particular judicial branch case, the attorney is called special prosecutor
So the courts appoint special prosecutors…Hmmm.
Comment by RUCerious
Thanks, RUC, I was wondering if Gonzo would have to appoint his own Special Prosecutor.
July 24th, 2007 at 2:40 pmsince we’re actively recruiting their members to carry out attacks in Iran.
Comment by toasterhead — July 24, 2007 @ 2:38 pm
July 24th, 2007 at 2:40 pm---------------
Yeah, but we aren't brown-nosing. We are merely using them to do our dirty work.
Why doesn’t that surprise me? My friends just read the books. You know, actual learning. Which is Kryptonite to a wingnut, I know…
Comment by NoOneYouKnow — July 24, 2007 @ 2:38 pm
If you think The Republic of Stupidity is a wingnut, you ought to read a bit closer.
July 24th, 2007 at 2:41 pmsince we’re actively recruiting their members to carry out attacks in Iran.
Comment by toasterhead — July 24, 2007 @ 2:38 pm
—————
Yeah, but we aren’t brown-nosing. We are merely using them to do our dirty work.
Comment by Thrasymachos — July 24, 2007 @ 2:40 pm
So you support terrorism AND you hate the Constitution.
GET OUT OF MY COUNTRY
July 24th, 2007 at 2:42 pmEric Alterman has a quotation from JFK today, from 1960. Given some of the digression on this thread, it's relevant and worth hanging on to, I think.
July 24th, 2007 at 2:43 pm
If you think The Republic of Stupidity is a wingnut, you ought to read a bit closer.
Comment by Zooey — July 24, 2007 @ 2:41 pm
July 24th, 2007 at 2:43 pm-----------------------------
Indeed. He is more of an Idealistic blabber mouth!
I don’t want anarchy. I just want more realistic expectations for our government. Comment by Cynicon Implant
The limits on Federal Government power are set forth in the U.S. Constitution. If you don't like it -- as a Republican would quickly say -- move somewhere else.
July 24th, 2007 at 2:43 pmYeah, but we aren’t brown-nosing. We are merely using them to do our dirty work.
Comment by Thrasymachos — July 24, 2007 @ 2:40 pm
Yeah. Just like the CIA trained Bin Laden. And just how did that plan work out?
July 24th, 2007 at 2:45 pmIf you think The Republic of Stupidity is a wingnut, you ought to read a bit closer.
Comment by Zooey
Thanks, Zooey.
NoOneYou Know... it's sarcasm... but not totally... I actually had friends in highschool who did book reports that way. I read the damned books, everytime. :-)!!!
July 24th, 2007 at 2:46 pmIndeed. He is more of an Idealistic blabber mouth!
Comment by Thrasymachos — July 24, 2007 @ 2:43 pm
And you're a terrorism-supporting democracy-hater. What's your point?
July 24th, 2007 at 2:46 pmIndeed. He is more of an Idealistic blabber mouth!
Comment by Thrasymachos
Much like yourself? You're missing the Idealism, of course.
You really ought to be ashamed of yourself for the things you've been saying, but I know you have no capability of it.
July 24th, 2007 at 2:46 pmGET OUT OF MY COUNTRY
July 24th, 2007 at 2:46 pmComment by toasterhead — July 24, 2007 @ 2:42 pm
------------------------------------------
Well, I thought you could get through a conversation without losing all control of your emotions... I guess I was wrong.
Hate Hate Hate - libs
July 24th, 2007 at 2:47 pm------------------
*yawn*
We are merely using them to do our dirty work.
Comment by Thrasymachos
Misleading statement - the use of "dirty work" is a euphemism, like "negative patient outflow", meant to hide the actual nature of the deed being done - assasination, destruction, etc, etc...
July 24th, 2007 at 2:48 pmYou really ought to be ashamed of yourself for the things you’ve been saying, but I know you have no capability of it.
Comment by Zooey — July 24, 2007 @ 2:46 pm
And to think last night he was winking at you!
July 24th, 2007 at 2:48 pmHate Hate Hate - libs
——————
*yawn*
Comment by Thrasymachos
And yet still no facts... just vague, all condemning attitude. Why it'd be like I had just said - Stupid GOOPers - perverts, perverts, perverts... just a vague, sweeping condemnation w/ no facts. No way to rebutt it...
July 24th, 2007 at 2:50 pmWell, I thought you could get through a conversation without losing all control of your emotions… I guess I was wrong.
Comment by Thrasymachos
Some of the regulars here thought you could get through a conversation without making a complete arsehole of yourself . . . I guess they were wrong.
July 24th, 2007 at 2:50 pmThanks for the posting of JFK gunmitch.
July 24th, 2007 at 2:50 pmI guess I was wrong.
Comment by Thrasymachos
Copy and paste that wherever you go.
July 24th, 2007 at 2:51 pmWell, I thought you could get through a conversation without losing all control of your emotions… I guess I was wrong.
Comment by Thrasymachos — July 24, 2007 @ 2:46 pm
I'm perfecty in control. I'm calmly and rationally recommending that you quickly get out of the country you hate so much.
July 24th, 2007 at 2:52 pmgummitch, nice JFK quote. Thank you. And, the next time one of these loony trolls trys to say, "JFK supported tax cuts," we should say, "that's right, he supported dropping the top rate from 91% down to 70% and cutting out loopholes so that the rich would really have to pay something."
July 24th, 2007 at 2:53 pmI’m calmly and rationally recommending that you quickly get out of the country you hate so much.
Comment by toasterhead — July 24, 2007 @ 2:52 pm
--------------------------------------------------------
Your recommendation is respectfully denied.
Thank you.
July 24th, 2007 at 2:54 pmAgain, it should be obvious that it's useless to respond to these trolls. If one has something to add to the conversation or a legitimate rhetorical challenge, that's another matter, but from what I see today, there's none of that.
July 24th, 2007 at 2:55 pmAnd to think last night he was winking at you!
Comment by Martha Stewart
Last night it was The Eck, this thing today is Mr President.
July 24th, 2007 at 2:55 pmTwo separate dingleberries. :)
Comment by gummitch — July 24, 2007 @ 2:43 pm
Thanks for that JFK quote, gummitch. I am proud to be a Liberal.
July 24th, 2007 at 2:57 pmI’m calmly and rationally recommending that you quickly get out of the country you hate so much.
Comment by toasterhead
Love it Toasterhead, love it. So dignified... and articulate... see, guys, we can make our point w/out all the expletives!
#$*&#**!!! **&#$@*&$>>!!!
Oops, old habits die hard... my bad!!
July 24th, 2007 at 2:57 pmTwo separate dingleberries. :)
Comment by Zooey — July 24, 2007 @ 2:55 pm
Do you really think so? Well then, I hate the Eck less.
July 24th, 2007 at 2:57 pmAnd, the next time one of these loony trolls trys to say, “JFK supported tax cuts,†we should say, “that’s right, he supported dropping the top rate from 91% down to 70% and cutting out loopholes so that the rich would really have to pay something.â€
Comment by Ret. Col. Jack Ripper
Excellent, Colonel, excellent. Pin them down to specifics!
July 24th, 2007 at 2:58 pmLove it Toasterhead, love it. So dignified… and articulate… see, guys, we can make our point w/out all the expletives!
#$*&#**!!! **&#$@*&$>>!!!
Oops, old habits die hard… my bad!!
Comment by The Republic of Stupidity — July 24, 2007 @ 2:57 pm
Thanks dogg! :)
I was going to put a "forthwith" or "hitherto" in there but I thought it might be too much...
July 24th, 2007 at 3:01 pmWe have not Constitution any more. Now Bush should appoint a Special Prosecutor who will do as he's told and take the millions and report that there was no crime done. American people believe Gonzo is telling the truth as is the rest of the Bush Administration. We have to now realize that we have a Dictator and no rights. Our former way of life is gone and as Karl Rove is working hard to have the one party system. Just pay your taxes and keep your mouth closed. Bush will let us know when we can speak. The next election will show only Republican winners and then maybe Bush will decide to remain in office another 8 to 10 years as President. This is the New United States and minorities, women and immigrates will lose all the rights they once had. Even Clarence Thomas will have to step down from the Supreme Court. All the women who work in jobs will be fired. Connie Rice can return as Bush's lap kitty. It's a white mans world and it's coming back with the KKK leading the way. The rest of the World has moved on without the idiot US President. Putin can't stop laughing and China is just working it. North Korea knows how to play the idiots in the White House. Even Journalist like David Brooks are lying and lining their pockets with GOP money. Iraq was illegally invaded while the United States was invaded from within.
July 24th, 2007 at 3:01 pmI don’t want anarchy. I just want more realistic expectations for our government. Comment by Cynicon Implant
The limits on Federal Government power are set forth in the U.S. Constitution. If you don’t like it — as a Republican would quickly say — move somewhere else.
Comment by Republicans Can't Govern
Our government has gone so far beyond the scope that was intended in the Constitution I'm not sure you want to use that argument. I wish we would stick to the original intent. But I still love this country -- warts and all -- still the best in the world so I wouldn't go anywhere else.
July 24th, 2007 at 3:03 pmI don’t want anarchy. I just want more realistic expectations for our government. Comment by Cynicon Implant
Damn, Cynicon, I can actually respect that statement. I have absolutely no problem w/ it what so ever. I actually agree w/ you, in spirit. This has gotten out of hand, but destroying it completely? You DON'T want that.
If someone has cancer, you want to remove the tumor, but you don't do that by killing the patient.
July 24th, 2007 at 3:07 pmOur government has gone so far beyond the scope that was intended in the Constitution I’m not sure you want to use that argument. I wish we would stick to the original intent.
Comment by Cynicon Implant
It's like sailing, Cynicon. We tack to one side, then have to tack to the other. It's an ongoing experiment and we're still all learning.
July 24th, 2007 at 3:09 pmBut you don't want to sink the damned boat!
July 24th, 2007 at 3:10 pm#99 But I still love this country — warts and all — still the best in the world so I wouldn’t go anywhere else.
Comment by Cynicon Implant
As do all of us here. It will just be a bit easier as we get some adult leadership and intelligence back in control. You know people who actually REMEMBER that they work for us... not the other way around.
It iwll be OK, you will actually like it, once we get the stains off the WH walls and the COnstitution!
July 24th, 2007 at 3:10 pmIt’s like sailing, Cynicon. We tack to one side, then have to tack to the other. It’s an ongoing experiment and we’re still all learning.
Comment by The Republic of Stupidity — July 24, 2007 @ 3:09 pm
It's just this time we're coming dangerously close to capsizing.
July 24th, 2007 at 3:10 pmI was going to put a “forthwith†or “hitherto†in there but I thought it might be too much…
Comment by toasterhead
It was fine the way you said it, but the "forthwith" would have been cool too...
July 24th, 2007 at 3:11 pmIt’s just this time we’re coming dangerously close to capsizing.
Comment by Martha Stewart
EXACTLY!!! and we DON'T want to sink the boat... bad, bad, bad!!!
July 24th, 2007 at 3:12 pmIt’s like sailing, Cynicon. We tack to one side, then have to tack to the other. It’s an ongoing experiment and we’re still all learning.
Comment by The Republic of Stupidity — July 24, 2007 @ 3:09 pm
But you don’t want to sink the damned boat!
Comment by The Republic of Stupidity
Agreed -- it's a pretty good boat. Even if we don't always agree on where to sail it.
July 24th, 2007 at 3:15 pmAgreed — it’s a pretty good boat. Even if we don’t always agree on where to sail it.
Comment by Cynicon Implant
Damn... resolution... hmmm... what an unfamilar sensation.
July 24th, 2007 at 3:16 pmEven if we don’t always agree on where to sail it.
Comment by Cynicon Implant — July 24, 2007 @ 3:15 pm
Sometimes I think we even agree on the destination. It's the safest way to get there that we fight over.
July 24th, 2007 at 3:17 pmIt iwll be OK, you will actually like it, once we get the stains off the WH walls and the COnstitution!
Comment by upside00
Wow, you would have though they could have gotten those stains from Clinton out by now! (sorry, couldn't resist upside00)
July 24th, 2007 at 3:17 pmSometimes I think we even agree on the destination. It’s the safest way to get there that we fight over.
Comment by Martha Stewart
Also true
July 24th, 2007 at 3:18 pmWow, you would have though they could have gotten those stains from Clinton out by now! (sorry, couldn’t resist upside00)
Comment by Cynicon Implant
Now, that's a fair one, and even funny.
July 24th, 2007 at 3:19 pmThere's just one more stain that would complete the picture of this soiled and miserable pResidency. Bush need to stain that pretty rug he likes so much. Adolph's solution to failure. He is such a loser he wouldn't even do that right.
July 24th, 2007 at 3:21 pmCNN had a segment about the "body language" of the Democratic candidates last night after the debate. I would like CNN to give equal consideration to Gonzales' "body language" today.
July 24th, 2007 at 3:44 pmDo you really think so? Well then, I hate the Eck less.
Comment by Martha Stewart — July 24, 2007 @ 2:57 pm
Yep. I agree, The Eck is better, and that's not saying much for Mr Pee.
July 24th, 2007 at 4:00 pmCNN had a segment about the “body language†of the Democratic candidates last night after the debate. I would like CNN to give equal consideration to Gonzales’ “body language†today.
Comment by wijg
Absolutely, wijg. I finally had a chance to watch this clip (dialup), and I'm not sure Gonzo moved a single muscle while Specter was speaking. Creepy. And when Leahy was bawling him out earlier, he fidgeted around like a school boy caught doing something naughty.
July 24th, 2007 at 4:11 pmMore creepy.
"...and I’m not sure Gonzo moved a single muscle while Specter was speaking."
Comment by Zooey — July 24, 2007 @ 4:11 pm
Zooey, here in Texas we call that "lookin' like a deer caught in th' headlights!"
Gonzo looked the same way when Sen. Leahy told him that he had lost the Senators complete trust.
I would feel sorry for him if he hadn't brought this on himself!
July 24th, 2007 at 4:19 pmComment by Zooey — July 24, 2007 @ 4:11 pm
He's very defensive in his posture. Looks like he's protecting himself from all the blows.
July 24th, 2007 at 4:52 pmSpecter! He's great at acting outraged, but has a woefully shameful record of acting on his outrage. A paper tiger, at best, and frankly he's as sickening as the whole lot of them.
July 24th, 2007 at 6:12 pmWow, you would have though they could have gotten those stains from Clinton out by now! (sorry, couldn’t resist upside00)
Comment by Cynicon Implant
Yeah, but the BLOOD STAINS and the TREASON STAINS left by the WAR CRIMINAL Bushes are FOR ETERNITY
Coincidentally, exactly how long Bush, Cheney and people like them and YOU will BURN IN HELL...
July 24th, 2007 at 6:32 pmFellow Americans, poor Arlen Specter is facing re-election. He is smart enough to know that our beloved prez would cut his throat in a nanosecond to further his ambitions. Baby Bush is exactly like his papa insofar as his own greed and ambition.
Arlen must make a decision, to support or not support the Bush administration. The way Bush has set-up his policies, that also includes the war in Iraq.
I do not trust any president who use scapegoats. Just like Reagan and Bush Sr., just like Iran-Contra, just like Enron, just like Vietnam, just like Iraq, etc. etc.
The real question is this, my friends: Are you more interested in your Commander in Chief speaking the truth? If your response is yes, congradulations; if your response is no, prepare for another four-years of corruption and the mis-use of power...
July 25th, 2007 at 8:25 amhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_United_States_federal_executive_orders
It isn't executive privilege, but I think it is important to look at.
That is a list of executive orders, however, is does not seem to portray the real legal realities of some of them.
What's important to see is that there has been a steady narrative of executive orders created that takes away the rights of the American citizen if martial law can be declared. What each successive executive order seemingly does is make it easier to declare martial law.
July 25th, 2007 at 8:45 amFitZ Where are U?
Comment by RUCerious — July 24, 2007 @ 1:59 pm
He'd probably be off somewhere resting after his 4 years on CIA leak investigation wouldn't he ?
You remember, the one where he knew who leaked it in the first month then spent 4 years investigating it only to end up charging nobody with leaking anything.
Yeah where's that guy. Get him. He's a winner.
July 25th, 2007 at 12:35 pmI just don't care about this simple sh*t!!! Congress shouldn't care about this simple sh*t. At least not when Habeas Corpus STILL remains undone. If this were actually an administration instead of a monarchy... then the attorney firings would probably be a pretty big scandal for a typical administration. The transition to a monarchy is no typical administration. I think the self enabling monarchy like we've all borne unfortunate witness to the past 6 years pretty much trumps all else.
So under the circumstances I just can't believe the Dems are screwing around with this stupid sh*t when this administration has a laundry list of wrongdoing a mile long... Habeas Corpus! #1 cheif and foremost... Habeas Corpus!!! We can try those responsible for that... the illegal war... illegal surveillance... illegal everything... afterwards. And if there's time left to work your way down through the criminals in this rancid monarchy to go after the small potatoes like Gonzales (I doubt it) then by all means go for it.
But dammit fix Habeas Corpus before anything. I'm ashamed each and every day that we exist without that fundamental keystone of democracy in place. It's abhorrent that we're a nation without it. I remember the second half of the cold war era. Kinda funny how what goes around comes around.
The Dems think they're making wonderful progress in getting to the bottom of this attorney firing thing... asking hard questions and demanding hard answers. and meanwhile king george is passing executive orders to basically insure the absolute power of his monarchy. Now it's a crime against the monarchy to oppose the war in Iraq. WTF? What next? What is this nation becoming while the congress so very carefully ponders "missing e-mails" in the Gonzalez thing?
I think the attorney firings is a misdirection and the Congress is falling for it. The GOP I'm sure is hoping to hell that Congress takes the next two years to try and get to the bottom of this. And king george isn't gonna let them get to the bottom of anything... not with executive privilege thing and otherwise overreach of the Constitution (that "g-dammed piece of paper") and Bill of Rights. The overreach of the present monarchy has to be reversed first. We need a "change of course" in the Congress right now. If Congress doesn't wake up to the reality of things then don't even waste your time on these incidental crimes of the king's henchmen. And for that matter don't even waste our time in 2008.
There won't ever be Democratic president in our lifetime again if the spineless chowderheads in our Congress that call themselves the Democrats (and the majority) don't figure this out in time.
Now I understand why Moe was always so angry. ~M
July 25th, 2007 at 8:15 pmWhy am I reminded of a four-year-old kid who got into the fridge, took out a freshly baked plate of fudge, ate all he wished, smeared himself and the kitchen with chocolate, is then confronted by his mother, and tearfully claims "I didn't do it, Mamma"?
July 26th, 2007 at 7:58 pm