Transcript of relevant portion over at Austin Mayor’s place
Video at Crooks and Liars (thank goodness for them—I’m not very good at this video editing thing)
As Rich pointed out that Fitzgerald’s previous use of language doesn’t necessarily mean the current usage will result in the same outcome. Most importantly, when conducting an investigation, one might have a theory about where it will lead, but as the situation is investigated, that theory may change.
In Blagojevich’s case, I doubt the federal probe(s?) would lead to much before the election. Unless someone like Levine flipped and served the Governor up directly, these cases take a long time.
That said, the Madigan’s grand jury’s 18 months is up this summer and if any indictments come out of that–they are by definition very high up.
What irony that would be–Republicans praising a Madigan.
Rich links to a very good article on political and legal insulation and how the Ryan verdict may dramatically change that concept.
My view is that Levine is an issue for people who read blogs–IOW, the hyper aware, but to make it more than a draw with Topinka on the issue, indictments would essentially need to be just one step removed from Blagojevich in his administration–not just a supporter who got an appointment.
The smartest thing either party could do given the current environment is get together and pass HB 4073 / SB 2138.
Yes, Crooks and Liars is the best. Unfortunately , it doesn’t appear that anything significant will occur before the elections. Plus, you can indict anyone for anything. The true test is even later.