FITZ!

haha! a zed!

now to read

I’m still wondering how the “I was going to be a scapegoat” works as a defense for lying to the GJ?

Intersex sunfish found in Potomac basin

hey christywheel!

hey, I’d like your point of view on my opinion that “throwing rove under the bus” is simply a tactic that might even have the fingerprints of rove

it’s no loose for rove, if libby’s indicted he calls him a liar, if libby’s vindicated he says it was libby’s defense strategy not reality

fitz won’t get a second prosecution if libby is vindicated and rove remains in the claar, if libby is found guilty the real target is cheney

so I think this “rove under the bus” stuff is actually initiated by rove, giving the libby team a pass

input please

Christy (and Marcy): You were so awesome yesterday. All your posts – early and late. Plus I can’t imagine it was easy for either one of you to stop talking about the days events and force yourselves to bed. Amazing discipline, and MANY thanks.

Here’s another headline – Israeli president taking leave of absence: reports

What I’m reading.
The Boston Globe piece on Carter speaking at Brandeis was far better (more accurate, more well rounded) than the NYTimes piece. Globe had a nice line in there from Carter saying that he didn’t think Brandeis needed to have a Harvard Professor come to tell them where things were at.

I sorta worry that “throwing Rove under the bus” is going to result in car brake trouble for Libby…

Posted this comment at Next Hurrah, after reading it in Bloomberg’s reporting (apparently the same tidbit caught their eye, too):

Was particularly fond of this bit by Wells yesterday, although there were so many choice nuggets from which to choose:

“Unlike Karl Rove, you will learn, Mr. Libby had not been out pushing stories about Ms. Wilson,” Wells said. “Mr. Libby was just a staff member. Karl Rove was the lifeblood of the Republican Party.”

Which can only lead us to deduce:

1) For this administration, national security is clearly second place at best to protecting the Republican Party;

2) There was no separation between what Karl Rove did for George W. Bush and the Republican Party — were publicly-owned assets must have been regularly deployed for partisan purposes, in violation of federal election laws?

Ugh, I see I didn’t proof it when I posted at Next Hurrah…but I think you catch gist of it.

Bi-partisanship is simply beyond this administation’s capacity; any time they use the word they should be called on it.

David Gregory all over The Today Show this morning, covering for Lauer; didn’t happen to catch the first hour when the Libby trial would have been addressed. Taped last night’s NBC news to see if there was anything unusual in it; they have Kelly O’Donnell handling the trial. No surprise there since Russert, Mitchell and Gregory are up to their ears in this.

edit: Should point out that Gregory is filling in for Lauer, but from Washington DC while the rest of the crew is still in NYC. Hmmm…is Gregory expecting to be called as a witness very soon?

Don’t forget to click everyday… The Breast Cancer Site

Just wanted to say a huge thank you and that I’ve been riveted by your coverage so far. I can’t post at work, which drives me bonkers.

One teeny request, allowing that I understand you’re under the gun and posting at a frantic pace to keep all us Plame junkies happy … I found quite often during the proceedings yesterday that I simply didn’t know who was being referred to when you mentioned “him,” “her” or “his.” If you could use proper names and avoid pronouns whenever possible (even when apparently redundant), I think it would make things clearer.

Again–thanks for your great work so far.

Yesterday when the servers started to struggle, I noticed that USA Today had posted a link to FDL at the end of their brief article about the trial. Shocking, but also no doubt contributed to the heavy traffic. No link visible today…yet.

Great, great job – thanks!

OldCoastie @ 3 and Perris @ 5 — I’ll have a post on that this morning, either here or at Needlenose (I’m supposed to do a review of Plame coverage here, too, and I’m not sure if it’ll be part of the same post).

The short answer is, I think you’re on the right track… it’s a headfake.

We hear in NY that Cheney will quit in about a month, when it becomes clear he will have to answer for Fredo.(Libby) He awaits his new grand, and this job is a killer. He didn’t look too good last night, btw. His eyes kept unfocussing.

Also on the press: A big deal in both Globe and NYT on some Mets fan who impersonated a journalist to get into the clubhouse – and has been now punished.

NOthing in either paper on people like Judith Miller, David Kaplan, and other “reporters” for NYT (and other papers) impersonating journalists. When frankly they are either ideologues, or see their role simply as being the mouth piece of this bankrupt administration.

I just clicked over to the Niger forgeries link at NH. Why is the CIA getting the forgeries simultaneously (I guess) with State significant? What difference does it make? Doesn’t it all come down to the WH knew the information was bogus and they were still peddling it?

CSPAN M/J just quoted FTimes Ed re: SOTUU using – Parallel Universe’…no mention about good v. evil, tho.
;~>

PSA – for the folks in Wilmington DE – Chimpy is heading your way this AM for a visit.

Morning cheer to Marcy & Christy – thanks for your hard work & dedication.

Also, Christy, I think you’re headed for a talking-head career. Get ready for your life to change dramatically.

I’ve read lots of comments about how Senator Webb stirred up everyone’s emotions and made them proud to be a Democrat. Lots of talk about how he would be a better candidate than most of the others. I agree.

I hope someone comes up with a printer for you. Someone yesterday said he was only 7 miles from the court house. So I am hoping.

And wonderful to see your yesterday’s post about the trial appear on Huffington post. Thanks so very much for giving me, and millions of others, a voice.

Swopa @
14

OldCoastie @ 3 and Perris @ 5 — I’ll have a post on that this morning, either here or at Needlenose (I’m supposed to do a review of Plame coverage here, too, and I’m not sure if it’ll be part of the same post).

The short answer is, I think you’re on the right track… it’s a headfake.

If it is a ruse (please bear in mind that I am not a lawyer), would his participation in this supposed ruse expose Rove to witness tampering and/or obstruction of justice charges?

here’s what I’m reading*G*

“If he does, we will join him. If he does not, we will be showing him the way.”

Swopa – thanks for tossing me a tidbit during the day… fortunately Needlenose is not yet blocked by the school district (they discovered fdl over winter break)…

I feel like I’m just STARVING for news during the day…

CNN – Cheney on CNN’s The Situation Room tonight at 7PM eastern.

twolf1 @ 26

CNN – Cheney on CNN’s The Situation Room tonight at 7PM eastern.

think he’ll announce his retirement?

MSNBC on Libby Trial – Libby attorneys attack witness credibility

Attorneys for former White House aide I. Lewis “Scooter” Libby say the testimony of the government’s first witness in the CIA leak trial may have been improperly influenced.

Old Coastie,

I’ll do some digging, but am pretty sure there’s a way around the district’s ban on FDL – stories coming out of China and the various apps/programs folks are using to get to banned sites and to do so anonymously . . .have you tried one of the various feeds through a My Yahoo account ?

cbl – can’t get any “my yahoo” or “my” anything… very fearsome filter…

ezdidit @
15

We hear in NY that Cheney will quit in about a month

…and that way Bush can appoint someone who can run as an “incumbant” (sort of) in 2008? Hmm…

pool boy on msnbc discounting the libby trial… he seems to forget that it clearly shows Cheney as a traitor.

…hastert on CSPAN yapping about switchgrass and soy diesel. maybe we could just harvest the grease emanating from hastert’s pores?

oh and,

A big deal in both Globe and NYT on some Mets fan who impersonated a journalist to get into the clubhouseelevator

Christy, I know you guys are tight on funds but HP makes relatively inexpensive scanner/printer/copiers that you can buy refurbished. Cartridges are included and they are more valuable than the printer itself, which you essentially get for free. I got a refurbished one at an Office Max for about $60.00. I’ve had it for a year now and it’s pretty good. I don’t know what size you are looking at. Mine is roughly 16″x10″x6″. If that’s too big, well, nevermind.

There’s tons of cheap used laser printers on washington.craigslist.org classified ads. I’d just snag one of those. Old HP Laserjets in particular are indestructable workhorses and you can get them for practically nothing, like 50 bucks or less, and they run forever on a cheap toner cartridge.

Thanks MT and Redd for the awesome job reporting. I first started reading FDL during earlyish days of Traitorgate and was blown away by Christy’s insights and knowledge on legal matters a la Plame. Found FDL to be truly hard hitting where it was needed (almost always) on Bushie/GOP actions, and to generally have the most intelligent comments of any blog- by far.

Loved last night’s Youtube.

Libby trial blogging is a sweet reward for your readers- and I agree with SWOPA, I am so glad to have an independent voice on the proceedings to help keep the national media in line. I have absolutely zero faith in any national media, though admittedly some reporters get it right some of the time and have to suffer the wrath of the right for it.

Since you mentioned beerthirty, thought I’d recommend The Brickskeller, home of 1000 beers-Edelweiss would be my rec- and a cool place with good simple food. 4 blocks North of Washington Circle on 22nd.

I think you folks deserve champagne, but beer works too. And I’d like a reminder on the extra sheckels to add for a FDL DC trip donation- was it .07 cents?

Democrats savoring the spotlight
Glum Republicans taste humble pie as the Democrats enjoy brownies, ice cream and newfound attention.
“When power changes hands in the nation’s capital, the shift is palpable. And nowhere was the recent electoral cataclysm more evident than in the halls of Congress on Tuesday….

Oh, it’s not really so different,” Sen. Orrin G. Hatch (R-Utah) said as his Democratic colleagues flitted from one photo op to the next and he strode the halls with not a single camera chasing him.

But everyone knew something was different.

Republicans triumphant during 12 years of dominance looked deflated, like the vanquished football squad forced to attend the other team’s victory fest…”

Democrats savoring the spotlight
Glum Republicans taste humble pie as the Democrats enjoy brownies, ice cream and newfound attention.

Schadenfreude…it’s a good thing!

dipper @ 22

I’ve read lots of comments about how Senator Webb stirred up everyone’s emotions and made them proud to be a Democrat. Lots of talk about how he would be a better candidate than most of the others. I agree.

I am in Virginia and I worked for Webb but I had tears in my eyes when he talked about sleeping with that picture of his Dad. Bravo Democrats for putting someone up there who speaks truth to power.

CHRISTY & EMPTYWHEEL: I just sent you $100.01 for a new printer. Good Luck!
ccmask

OldCoastie — I’m with cbl, there must be a way to get around this. Have you tried Google Reader? I can get FDL feed through that service.

If you can’t do that, I can put you in a distribution list. I’m already emailing copies of the post text to other folks who are in similar straits, unable to open the FDL website.

nice, ccmask!

off to work – oh, what a long, LONG day!!

Rayne @ 43

OldCoastie — I’m with cbl, there must be a way to get around this. Have you tried Google Reader? I can get FDL feed through that service.

If you can’t do that, I can put you in a distribution list. I’m already emailing copies of the post text to other folks who are in similar straits, unable to open the FDL website.

I’ll check today… thanks!

What I observed about last nights coverage…
1. MSNBC pundits calling Bush on the “Democrat Majority” by calling Scarborough a Former “Republic” Congressman…. wooohoo

2. They all thought Webb kicked ass

3. Amazingly there are still people out there who have drank so much kool-aid that ya wonder if they will ever know the truth again. (Cspan call in)

Spectacular trial coverage here at FDL.. what a good day to be sick!

So I believed Cheney signed off on this defense strategy and that the whole thing represents open warfare between Rove and Cheney, a showdown in which I hope they both go down in flames.

My husband (a former litigator who occasionally represented white collar criminals) said if he had been Libby’s attorney, he would have said over and over again, protect only yourself and no one else. So he argues Cheney may not know a thing.

Old Coastie,

Here, look at this

stealth stuff like this all over the toobz

cbl — thank you so much for that donation, appreciate it greatly. Should be enough for a printer and plenty of paper.

How far away is the closest Staples store? I could always try to order a printer and see if they can hold it at the store.

Get some feedback on the redactions and classification markings. Part of the section classification markings are redacted. This is telling…

I suspect that the redacted markings were in some cases NORFORN which means not to be disclosed to foreign nationals. I also suspect that the documents WERE released to foreign nationals someplace along the line and part of the redactions are to cover someone’s backside.

Another possibility is WINTEL which means the information contains sources and/or methods of intellegence collection and/or dissemination. Well, it’s OBVIOUSLY an INTELL document, so what gives redacting WINTEL (the “blue racing stripe”)?

alleyesup

I’m not in court today. I’m at the office paying the bills, literally, and closing out the books for my accountant for FY06. What fun!

ezdidit @ 15

We hear in NY that Cheney will quit in about a month, when it becomes clear he will have to answer for Fredo.(Libby) He awaits his new grand, and this job is a killer. He didn’t look too good last night, btw. His eyes kept unfocussing.

Be still my heart! Or ….”you finish it”

Rayne,

that was ccmask with the donation (mine is slowly making it’s way via sausalito

lina @
17

I just clicked over to the Niger forgeries link at NH. Why is the CIA getting the forgeries simultaneously (I guess) with State significant? What difference does it make? Doesn’t it all come down to the WH knew the information was bogus and they were still peddling it?

Because the WH hid the Niger docs from CIA in order to postpone vetting. The WH needed to have a plausible deniability that they knowingly used a forgery to start a war.
They failed.
They should hang.

Was that the twit Ben Ferguson I just saw on msnbc? Media has standards so low you wouldn’t be able to limbo under them.

PS: Christy: Make sure you get an extra cartridge of ink because sometimes new printers don’t have fresh ink.

cc

Senator Webb “do” know his history–past and present. It shouldn’t be too difficult for Matthews to find a video of Webb taking offense at the Tweety’s for repeating he is not a real (liberal, populist) Democrat.

Spending much time in the Senate is not a recipe for success. Too many bad habits are acquired there.

On to watching the macho Republicans beat up on “the wife” and Cathie Martin. Beats actual combat.

I’ll check if we have a spare printer around when I get to work. We still have our old inkjet, but the reason we got a new printer is that the old one didn’t feed paper reliably, so that would be a complete pain.

OldCoastie — you’ll need a Google account to use it, but check it out here:

http://www.google.com/help/reader/tour.html

Thanks for the stealth stuff, cbl, that might help a friend of mine behind a rather deep firewall.

With the wonderful donation from ccmask, Christy should order the printer from a local store, and we can get a messenger to pick it up and deliver it to Christy. As a former legal secretary, getting drafts, documents, and things from one place to another was my speciality.

I used to have on speeddial a messenger service in CA when we had co-counsel there and hard copy briefs were going back and forth. My attorny refused to use the computer. He had wrote out all of his briefs etc. Bet he has changed now.

South Orange County Democrat @ 39

Oh, it’s not really so different,” Sen. Orrin G. Hatch (R-Utah) said as his Democratic colleagues flitted from one photo op to the next and he strode the halls with not a single camera chasing him.

Ouch! That’s gonna leave a mark!

(I love it!)

Hi, GrandmaJ. (Am I correct that you’re the GrandmaJ who used to post at the old Dean blog?)

Hey, guys, maybe you should work on some kind of coffee endorsement deal! ;-)

I can’t imagine how much of the stuff it’s taking to fuel this pace.

new thread

Yes Renee, it is I, saith the Grandma. And while I am slightly better with the computer than those days (and who can forget Trippi come to my rescue and putting the typeface back the way it was so I could still read it), I just learned to link with some wonderful help from our commenters.

I always read your posts. Was it you who did all the wonderful embroidered patches for the 50 state quilt?

Jane S. @ 41

I am in Virginia and I worked for Webb but I had tears in my eyes when he talked about sleeping with that picture of his Dad. Bravo Democrats for putting someone up there who speaks truth to power.

Me too! positively bursting my buttons (waving at Jane S.)

John Forde @ 54

lina @
17

I just clicked over to the Niger forgeries link at NH. Why is the CIA getting the forgeries simultaneously (I guess) with State significant? What difference does it make? Doesn’t it all come down to the WH knew the information was bogus and they were still peddling it?

Because the WH hid the Niger docs from CIA in order to postpone vetting. The WH needed to have a plausible deniability that they knowingly used a forgery to start a war.
They failed.
They should hang.

so does this new disclosure change that?

I have a printer.

I live in Maryland near enough to DC to get the printer in to Marcy and Christy today. I have an extra printer but it doesn’t have scanning ability which I think would probably come in handy. I can stop in Staples and purchase a new one and take it in to them, with paper and extra cartridges. Is there a way to work this out privately. Don’t want to post my email and phone but am happy to help with this. Anyone?

Staples Store closest to your location (Prettyman) is:
Herald Sq Building
1250 H Street NW
Washington, DC 20005
(202)638-3907

dipper @ 22

I’ve read lots of comments about how Senator Webb stirred up everyone’s emotions and made them proud to be a Democrat. Lots of talk about how he would be a better candidate than most of the others. I agree.

web was friggin incredible, he said it as if I wrote it myself, he hit all the notes that the republicans make believe they are in favor of but are not, he hit the note that the president is disregarding his own generals, that he is ignoring the fight against terrorism, that he is ignoring our national security

he was incredible…look, if you haven’t seen his remarks you really have to do it, think progross and c and l are hosting it…it is must see TEE vee

Renee in Ohio @
32

ezdidit @
15

We hear in NY that Cheney will quit in about a month

…and that way Bush can appoint someone who can run as an “incumbant” (sort of) in 2008? Hmm…

A VP rsignation is a huge political disaster. That signalled the begining of the end for Nixon. And whoever Bush appointed for the new VP would have to be confirmed by Congress. That confirmation would likely be a bit cantankerous.

I don’t think being a part of this administration would be a plus for any 2008 candidate.

He’s unlikely to appoint McCain, since AZ’s Democratic governor could appoint a Democrat to replace him, giving the Dem’s one more seat. If he appoints somebody other than McCain, McCain would probably be powerful bitter. A new VP is just a lose-lose for W and the GOP generally, I think.

If it happens, though, I predict some kind of elder statesman replacement who is not currently a member of Congress. James Baker, maybe.

oh, by the way, if you haven’t seen think progress’s anotated state of the union address, it’s a keeper, linked and sourced with every counter point to the claims the president is trying to make

another must see TEE vee

New thread is up…trial underway! Go FDL! Go Fitz!

perris @
71

dipper @ 22

I’ve read lots of comments about how Senator Webb stirred up everyone’s emotions and made them proud to be a Democrat. Lots of talk about how he would be a better candidate than most of the others. I agree.

web was friggin incredible, he said it as if I wrote it myself, he hit all the notes that the republicans make believe they are in favor of but are not, he hit the note that the president is disregarding his own generals, that he is ignoring the fight against terrorism, that he is ignoring our national security

he was incredible…look, if you haven’t seen his remarks you really have to do it, think progross and c and l are hosting it…it is must see TEE vee

Yes, funding his campaign last year was money well spent. He was amazing. But let’s not get too far ahead of ourselves. He is still fresh. Let’s see how he holds up to the inevitable beatings he is about to take. The GOP isn’t going to like an upstart like him.

Again @ 69

I live in Maryland near enough to DC to get the printer in to Marcy and Christy today. I have an extra printer but it doesn’t have scanning ability which I think would probably come in handy. I can stop in Staples and purchase a new one and take it in to them, with paper and extra cartridges. Is there a way to work this out privately. Don’t want to post my email and phone but am happy to help with this. Anyone?

That is a generous offer! Maybe try Christy’s email address, which is reddhedd AT firedoglake DOT com.

perris @ 5

hey christywheel!

hey, I’d like your point of view on my opinion that “throwing rove under the bus” is simply a tactic that might even have the fingerprints of rove

it’s no loose for rove, if libby’s indicted he calls him a liar, if libby’s vindicated he says it was libby’s defense strategy not reality

fitz won’t get a second prosecution if libby is vindicated and rove remains in the claar, if libby is found guilty the real target is cheney

so I think this “rove under the bus” stuff is actually initiated by rove, giving the libby team a pass

input please

What you say sounds plausible to me (though IANAL) regarding Libby’s criminal trial, but if Wells reveals actual evidence of wrongdoing by Rove, it could be used as evidence against Rove in the Wilsons’ civil trial.

OldCoastie @ 28

twolf1 @ 26

CNN – Cheney on CNN’s The Situation Room tonight at 7PM eastern.

think he’ll announce his retirement?

That will only happen on the Republican Network(FNC)

cleter @ 72

If it happens, though, I predict some kind of elder statesman replacement who is not currently a member of Congress. James Baker, maybe.

I somehow can’t see Chimpy appointing James Baker after the ISG/escalation debacle. I think Chimpy doesn’t really want to listen to Dad’s friends.

Need for printer

I’ve got one you can have, but it’s a standard size, desktop clunker. It would be impractical if you are trying to use it on-site, but would be alright if you’re printing from a hotel room. I’m out in Reston, but I’m retired and have the time to get it to you if still needed.

Glen Tomkins
gtomkins AT verizon DOT net

[Mod Note; Comment edited by site moderator. Thank you for the offer. If needed, we will contact you via email. It’s usually not a good idea to post home phone numbers]

ok, I’m going to put something along these lines together for my blog, I would like imput from both sides

we all want the administration held responsible for what they’ve done to America, but we also need to get alot done and fast.

Impeachment stops the government cold, nothing gets done

the president can still hold veto of just about anything we pass

I know this is gonna hurt, but I think we need to strike a deal with bush…no vetoes on our bills, no impeachment

don’t forget, if we take this forward, cheney resigns so there is still a puppet in the office of vice president

cheney bush get impeached, and there will still be two years of republican veto

nothing gets done and all the political, economic and international damage continues for two years

better to fix America as soon as possible

so, input from both sides of this argument please

I think I am of the opinion that we should fix America first

thoughts?

mui @ 79
cleter @ 72
If it happens, though, I predict some kind of elder statesman replacement who is not currently a member of Congress. James Baker, maybe.

I somehow can’t see Chimpy appointing James Baker after the ISG/escalation debacle. I think Chimpy doesn’t really want to listen to Dad’s friends.

I bet on Joe Lie.

new thread

http://www.firedoglake.com/200…..-grossman/but

perris @ 81

ok, I’m going to put something along these lines together for my blog, I would like imput from both sides

we all want the administration held responsible for what they’ve done to America, but we also need to get alot done and fast.

Impeachment stops the government cold, nothing gets done

the president can still hold veto of just about anything we pass

I know this is gonna hurt, but I think we need to strike a deal with bush…no vetoes on our bills, no impeachment

don’t forget, if we take this forward, cheney resigns so there is still a puppet in the office of vice president

cheney bush get impeached, and there will still be two years of republican veto

nothing gets done and all the political, economic and international damage continues for two years

better to fix America as soon as possible

so, input from both sides of this argument please

I think I am of the opinion that we should fix America first

thoughts?

I would love this imput but there is a new thread

please continue to post input on this thread so I don’t interupt what’s going on in the trial, will much appreciate

lina @
17

I just clicked over to the Niger forgeries link at NH. Why is the CIA getting the forgeries simultaneously (I guess) with State significant? What difference does it make? Doesn’t it all come down to the WH knew the information was bogus and they were still peddling it?

For all the details you could ever care to stew in on the Nigerian forgeries, I’d recommend eirposts fine breakdown of the whole story (and I do mean the whole story) over at TheLeftCoaster.com.

IMHO eripost is to Uranium from Africa what emptywheeler is to outing Plamegate.

–MarkusQ

perris @ 80

ok, I’m going to put something along these lines together for my blog, I would like imput from both sides

we all want the administration held responsible for what they’ve done to America, but we also need to get alot done and fast.

Impeachment stops the government cold, nothing gets done

the president can still hold veto of just about anything we pass

I know this is gonna hurt, but I think we need to strike a deal with bush…no vetoes on our bills, no impeachment

don’t forget, if we take this forward, cheney resigns so there is still a puppet in the office of vice president

cheney bush get impeached, and there will still be two years of republican veto

nothing gets done and all the political, economic and international damage continues for two years

better to fix America as soon as possible

so, input from both sides of this argument please

I think I am of the opinion that we should fix America first

thoughts?

You can’t just put salve and bandages on a festering sore…it’s a superficial fix, sure, but dangerous in the long run. You have to lance it and debrede it. Otherwise, you can die from systemic poisoning caused by that infection.

perris @ 80

ok, I’m going to put something along these lines together for my blog, I would like imput from both sides

we all want the administration held responsible for what they’ve done to America, but we also need to get alot done and fast.

Impeachment stops the government cold, nothing gets done

the president can still hold veto of just about anything we pass

I know this is gonna hurt, but I think we need to strike a deal with bush…no vetoes on our bills, no impeachment

don’t forget, if we take this forward, cheney resigns so there is still a puppet in the office of vice president

cheney bush get impeached, and there will still be two years of republican veto

nothing gets done and all the political, economic and international damage continues for two years

better to fix America as soon as possible

so, input from both sides of this argument please

I think I am of the opinion that we should fix America first

thoughts?

just a rumor i heard yesterday..chey stepping down..rice stepping up to cheny’s post..and of coure negroponte will take rice’s position.

cleter @ 72

Renee in Ohio @
32

ezdidit @
15

We hear in NY that Cheney will quit in about a month

…and that way Bush can appoint someone who can run as an “incumbant” (sort of) in 2008? Hmm…

A VP rsignation is a huge political disaster. That signalled the begining of the end for Nixon. And whoever Bush appointed for the new VP would have to be confirmed by Congress. That confirmation would likely be a bit cantankerous.

I don’t think being a part of this administration would be a plus for any 2008 candidate.

He’s unlikely to appoint McCain, since AZ’s Democratic governor could appoint a Democrat to replace him, giving the Dem’s one more seat. If he appoints somebody other than McCain, McCain would probably be powerful bitter. A new VP is just a lose-lose for W and the GOP generally, I think.

If it happens, though, I predict some kind of elder statesman replacement who is not currently a member of Congress. James Baker, maybe.

Lieberman would give him the Senate. A Republican Gov.

snookie64 @ 86

perris @ 80

ok, I’m going to put something along these lines together for my blog, I would like imput from both sides

we all want the administration held responsible for what they’ve done to America, but we also need to get alot done and fast.

Impeachment stops the government cold, nothing gets done

the president can still hold veto of just about anything we pass

I know this is gonna hurt, but I think we need to strike a deal with bush…no vetoes on our bills, no impeachment

don’t forget, if we take this forward, cheney resigns so there is still a puppet in the office of vice president

cheney bush get impeached, and there will still be two years of republican veto

nothing gets done and all the political, economic and international damage continues for two years

better to fix America as soon as possible

so, input from both sides of this argument please

I think I am of the opinion that we should fix America first

thoughts?

just a rumor i heard yesterday..chey stepping down..rice stepping up to cheny’s post..and of coure negroponte will take rice’s position.

that would fit the scenario of a republican president…rice is a huge mistake for them and I sincerely doubt they would do that, rice is unelectable and they know it, they need to install someone that has a chance in 08

Dru @ 82

mui @ 79
cleter @ 72
If it happens, though, I predict some kind of elder statesman replacement who is not currently a member of Congress. James Baker, maybe.

I somehow can’t see Chimpy appointing James Baker after the ISG/escalation debacle. I think Chimpy doesn’t really want to listen to Dad’s friends.

I bet on Joe Lie.

Dems would freak if he appointed Joe Lie. As would the ‘Publicans, many of whom don’t consider Joe Lie a real one of them. A VP has to be confirmed by both houses. I don’t think Joe Lie would get confirmed, frankly. It’ll be some sort of gray eminence who’s gone through the confirmation process before, but won’t upset the 2008 primary apple cart.

perris @ 83

new thread

http://www.firedoglake.com/200…..-grossman/but

perris @ 81

ok, I’m going to put something along these lines together for my blog, I would like imput from both sides

we all want the administration held responsible for what they’ve done to America, but we also need to get alot done and fast.

Impeachment stops the government cold, nothing gets done

the president can still hold veto of just about anything we pass

I know this is gonna hurt, but I think we need to strike a deal with bush…no vetoes on our bills, no impeachment

don’t forget, if we take this forward, cheney resigns so there is still a puppet in the office of vice president

cheney bush get impeached, and there will still be two years of republican veto

nothing gets done and all the political, economic and international damage continues for two years

better to fix America as soon as possible

so, input from both sides of this argument please

I think I am of the opinion that we should fix America first

thoughts?

I would love this imput but there is a new thread

please continue to post input on this thread so I don’t interupt what’s going on in the trial, will much appreciate

I’m all for aggressive investigations over impeachment. But if Chimpy is talking about changing the subject now and looking a lot like a dummy with two empty sockets for eyes, & the rest of them become potential for indictment, gov is bound to be crippled at some level anyway. But justice has to prevail one way or another, if the country is to be brought around.

ezdidit @
15
We hear in NY that Cheney will quit in about a month
————
Renee in Ohio @ 32
…and that way Bush can appoint someone who can run as an “incumbant” (sort of) in 2008? Hmm…
————
cleter @ 72
A VP rsignation is a huge political disaster. That signalled the begining of the end for Nixon. And whoever Bush appointed for the new VP would have to be confirmed by Congress. That confirmation would likely be a bit cantankerous.

I don’t think being a part of this administration would be a plus for any 2008 candidate.

He’s unlikely to appoint McCain, since AZ’s Democratic governor could appoint a Democrat to replace him, giving the Dem’s one more seat. If he appoints somebody other than McCain, McCain would probably be powerful bitter. A new VP is just a lose-lose for W and the GOP generally, I think.

If it happens, though, I predict some kind of elder statesman replacement who is not currently a member of Congress. James Baker, maybe.
————
Nellieh @ 87
Lieberman would give him the Senate. A Republican Gov.

Ah Gov. Rell is the weak link in that plan though.

mui @ 90

perris @ 83
Oh wait, no deals. May look bad to voters.

shoot messed up ziggurat, sorry perris.

Re what have I been reading, here’s the content of the message I sent to my friends:

Bloggage:

FDL lawyer Christy’s summary of yesterday’s proceedings: http://www.firedoglake.com/200…..witnesses/

Slate’s John Dickerson: http://www.slate.com/id/2158157/
James Joyner: http://www.outsidethebeltway.com/
Tom Maguire, Clarice Feldman & friends: http://justoneminute.typepad.com/main/
Murray Waas: http://whateveralready.blogspot.com/
David Corn: http://www.thenation.com/blogs…..pid=159887
Byron York: http://corner.nationalreview.c…..BhMzJhNGE=

Link to this a.m.’s liveblogging: http://www.firedoglake.com/200…..-grossman/

Nan

For Joe Lie to become VP, a majority of Democrats have to agree to voluntarily GIVE UP CONTROL of a house of Congress. That will NOT happen. Name me a Democratic senator who will vote to give away their majority. Name me some committee chairs who will gleefully vote to unchair themselves. Name me a Republican senator who will vote to make Al Gore’s running-mate VP. Is Sam Brownback going to vote for that? Is McCain? Is Hillary? Think Jim Webb won’t give a stern-ass speech about surrendering the majority?

A VP choice will be somebody who would sail through the confirmation period effortlessly, without ruffling 2008 feathers.

cleter @ 95

For Joe Lie to become VP, a majority of Democrats have to agree to voluntarily GIVE UP CONTROL of a house of Congress. That will NOT happen. Name me a Democratic senator who will vote to give away their majority. Name me some committee chairs who will gleefully vote to unchair themselves. Name me a Republican senator who will vote to make Al Gore’s running-mate VP. Is Sam Brownback going to vote for that? Is McCain? Is Hillary? Think Jim Webb won’t give a stern-ass speech about surrendering the majority?

A VP choice will be somebody who would sail through the confirmation period effortlessly, without ruffling 2008 feathers.

sorry, if that happens joe will become a republican simple as that

he is a judas sheep

cleter @ 95

For Joe Lie to become VP, a majority of Democrats have to agree to voluntarily GIVE UP CONTROL of a house of Congress. That will NOT happen. Name me a Democratic senator who will vote to give away their majority. Name me some committee chairs who will gleefully vote to unchair themselves. Name me a Republican senator who will vote to make Al Gore’s running-mate VP. Is Sam Brownback going to vote for that? Is McCain? Is Hillary? Think Jim Webb won’t give a stern-ass speech about surrendering the majority?

A VP choice will be somebody who would sail through the confirmation period effortlessly, without ruffling 2008 feathers.

I agree. I will also say Gov. Rell in spite of her “popularity” is very weak because she’s not that smart (sorry but it’s true), too many powerful Democrats in the state, and and her compromised state because she’s part of Rowland’s legacy. There’s a lot of leverage there to make her do the unthinkable. Seriously.

cleter @ 95

For Joe Lie to become VP, a majority of Democrats have to agree to voluntarily GIVE UP CONTROL of a house of Congress. That will NOT happen. Name me a Democratic senator who will vote to give away their majority. Name me some committee chairs who will gleefully vote to unchair themselves. Name me a Republican senator who will vote to make Al Gore’s running-mate VP. Is Sam Brownback going to vote for that? Is McCain? Is Hillary? Think Jim Webb won’t give a stern-ass speech about surrendering the majority?

A VP choice will be somebody who would sail through the confirmation period effortlessly, without ruffling 2008 feathers.

let me add

they might even deal, replace joe with a democrat so they can have joe as vice president…that might actually get him elected to president if he acts bi partisent

then, once elected, bing, he veers off so the sheep are led to the slaughter

he is a judas sheep

ezdidit @
15

We hear in NY that Cheney will quit in about a month, when it becomes clear he will have to answer for Fredo.(Libby) He awaits his new grand, and this job is a killer. He didn’t look too good last night, btw. His eyes kept unfocussing.

Last nite I only watched on 1/2 a ‘puter moniter while “multi-tasking”, so couldn’t see detail so well. I usually try to “face-read”, but just couldn’t quite handle jr & shooter that up-close-&- last nite for some reason…
But, much to my surprise, my hubby DID watch especially Bigtime really closely (he’s never done that before tee hee, but… – both of us being ethologists, he knew it’s -um- “instructive”)…
Sorry for long preamble, but maybe you, or someone else can tell me more about Bigtime’s performance last night. Hubby was thoroughly DISGUSTED! Said mrC. GLARED at Mme Speaker repeatedly, for long periods of time, with that snarly-face he can turn on for his worst enemies. Hubby said it was VERY obvious, looked very deliberately meant to be intimidating, & [just plain outrageously rude].

I’m paraphrasing hubby here, but not straying much from his actual words. To repeat, hubby usually looks thru & beyond such behavior, & concentrates on the speaker (i.e., he was TRYing to concentrate on Jr.), but Bigtime’s behavior was so outrageous, hubby was distracted by it.

Did anyone else see this, or can you point me to a tape? Now I do regret not having the intestinal fortitude to look more closely last nite – dang!

Translation: maybe the invincible bigtime really IS beginning to crack under the strain of [multiple choice - pick one of the many sources]. Before, he’s virtually always been Mr. TotalControl (barring the occasional open mike, heh). If he was acting that way last night, … wow(!)

Trubble is, if he crumbles, that might make the world LESS, rather than more safe. [e.g., whose fingers are on what buttons in the exec. branch, etc.]

Please forgive the stew I’m in. But, seems like somethin’s got ta give, somehow…, & I think it’s starting to…

Thanks so much FDLers.
Be careful crossin’ the street, esteemed DC-visitors. We luvs ya! ;->

just catching up with the most recent comments here… boy oh boy are pieces beginning to fall in together… for better or worse…

Oh, I think the CT legislature is working on something to in regards to replacement. Via MyLeftNutmeg. So uh, you see even the bill doesn’t get passed, the legislature is interested in let’s see what happens if Liarman should take a job with the Bush administration.

Sorry for long preamble, but maybe you, or someone else can tell me more about Bigtime’s performance last night. Hubby was thoroughly DISGUSTED! Said mrC. GLARED at Mme Speaker repeatedly, for long periods of time, with that snarly-face he can turn on for his worst enemies.
Hmm, that’s not a good way for someone as compromised as Deadeye to make friends.

More on replacing Joe the Ho in the Hartford Courant.

Amazing work you are doing at the Prettyman Courthouse! Thanks to you all!

On another note:
Here’s a link to the update on Joe Traitormen and the CFL Party gathering last Thursday. And I’m beginning to wonder about Ct’s Secretary of State..she’s starting to resemble Katherine Harris a wee bit.

Adie @ 99, the Vice popped a pill and his demeanor changed. When his ex-Bud was lying about his here today, gone tomorrow energy program, the real Decider would smirk and smile and seemed to be connecting with someone in the audience. As for his reaction to Speaker Pelosi, I thought he was checking whether she was applauding appropriately. It’s difficult to tell whether the man is smiling with good or bad humor.

I can’t see his resignation/firing as a good thing. Better to have the devil we know than McCain, Lieberman, or any of the others he would undoubtedly want as his VP to infuriate the Democrats.

mui @ 103

Next year, six states – Vermont, Connecticut, Rhode Island, North Dakota, California and Hawaii – will have two Democratic senators and a Republican governor.

Why can’t the news media ever get this right? Joe is not a DEM! Never will be again! Barely was before!

perris @
81

ok, I’m going to put something along these lines together for my blog, I would like imput from both sides

we all want the administration held responsible for what they’ve done to America, but we also need to get alot done and fast.

Impeachment stops the government cold, nothing gets done

the president can still hold veto of just about anything we pass

I know this is gonna hurt, but I think we need to strike a deal with bush…no vetoes on our bills, no impeachment

don’t forget, if we take this forward, cheney resigns so there is still a puppet in the office of vice president

cheney bush get impeached, and there will still be two years of republican veto

nothing gets done and all the political, economic and international damage continues for two years

better to fix America as soon as possible

so, input from both sides of this argument please

I think I am of the opinion that we should fix America first

thoughts?

No way. If we were dealing with adults, maybe. But if we were dealing with adults, we wouldn’t be in this situation. His dad can’t make him do anthing, Congress can’t make him do anything, the Repub party can’t make him do anything.

Any pressure strong enough to make him deal would have to be *at least* strong enough to impeach — and we don’t have anything that strong yet.

Bookwoman @ 106

Why can’t the news media ever get this right? Joe is not a DEM! Never will be again! Barely was before!

That’s right. Technically he’s still CT for Lieberman.

portia.vz @ 70

Staples Store closest to your location (Prettyman) is:
Herald Sq Building
1250 H Street NW
Washington, DC 20005
(202)638-3907

I work a block away from this Staples, so if you need someone to pick up the printer and deliver it to you, I’m your gal.

perris @ 96

cleter @ 95

For Joe Lie to become VP, a majority of Democrats have to agree to voluntarily GIVE UP CONTROL of a house of Congress. That will NOT happen. Name me a Democratic senator who will vote to give away their majority. Name me some committee chairs who will gleefully vote to unchair themselves. Name me a Republican senator who will vote to make Al Gore’s running-mate VP. Is Sam Brownback going to vote for that? Is McCain? Is Hillary? Think Jim Webb won’t give a stern-ass speech about surrendering the majority?

A VP choice will be somebody who would sail through the confirmation period effortlessly, without ruffling 2008 feathers.

sorry, if that happens joe will become a republican simple as that

he is a judas sheep

Joe thinks he’ll be VP? So Gov. Rell will be free to appt an R replacement.

Congress has to confirm, right? Wouldn’t that be a good time to find out what happened with Joe’s petty cash money? Just sayin’

holy crap! did anyone else dial scooter’s old number? i did and got: “chief of staff’s office”

whoops – wrong number!

Sally @
105

Thanks for getting back with the comments. I had to leave for awhile, so apologies for delay.

the Vice popped a pill and his demeanor changed. When his ex-Bud was lying about his here today, gone tomorrow energy program, the real Decider would smirk and smile and seemed to be connecting with someone in the audience. As for his reaction to Speaker Pelosi, I thought he was checking whether she was applauding appropriately. It’s difficult to tell whether the man is smiling with good or bad humor.

Interesting. I’ve never ever seen him give a real smile, e.g., one that includes the eyes. Seems to me he plays everything very close in public. I suspect he must be an incredibly intimidating presence behind the scenes – must be awful to be on his staff, or worse, a rival/adversary.

Maybe the stare-down twd Pelosi wasn’t meant to be as aggressive as my honey thot. (he hates bigtime & everything he stands for, i do believe – usually can’t stand to look at him, heh)

My hon also mentioned that same weird smile & conspiritorial air that you noticed, when the speech got to energy policy – gotta be some disgusting, self-serving deals goin’ on there – yuck!

I can’t see his resignation/firing as a good thing…

BOYOHBOY! I can! I’m not a timid person, but this guy scares me. I think he’s absolutely vicious, and totally ruthless, no conscience, ZERO! Maybe it’s ’cause of his poor health prognosis, the lack of grandkids to identify with (as it were), the trial – I get the strong feeling he simply.does.not.care about the future of anyone or anything, because he figures he’s gonna checkout purty soon anyway so – so what?! There is nothing much more dangerous than a cornered, vicious animal that sees no possible escape.

I’m also assuming that mrC’s THE one with his finger on the nookulur button. That’s why I’ll be shakin’ in my boots until he’s GONE, OUTTA THERE, preferably frog-marched with his pockets empty & turned out, & hands where everyone can see ‘em.

Yes. I think he’s that dangerous. Honestly. I just hope someone within this administration has a shred of integrity, feels the same way, and is watching over the future for us all. Jr. surely isn’t capable of even understanding why he should care.

Apologies for rant. Maybe it’s time for some herbal tea, or something stronger. Might just go hug my honey. ;->

{{{{{{peace}}}}}}