Christy!

I meant Jane!

ZEDUNOFITZEROO?

errr

no, blodun beat me to it

damn it

zunoed?

BADA BING!

Ah missed it by a little bit more than THAT much…

HEADLINE:

Rats continue to flee; ‘Ship fine’ says Bush

it sure sounds to me like the Dems won’t drop the investigations… Leahy was sounding still pissed this morning also.

Great post, Jane. I second your comments.

bye-bye gonzo

Comey. The Senate Judiciary Committee should insist on Comey.

Congress must get to the bottom of this mess and follow the facts where they lead, into the White House.

That’s nice, Harry, but will you do better with this promise than you have with your previous ones?

Breaking news: Barney the Dog resignes also.

Wants to spend more time with his family. Apparently, he misses the warmth and intelligence.

Oversight shouldn’t stop just because the crooks are headed for the hills.

Ed Zachary.
If anything, you press harder and start pummeling them while they are on the ropes.
There must be some serious scrambling going on in Bizzaro World this morning.

Would be interesting to see how Bush spins this…

The fact is you can’t stick up a bank “at the pleasure of the President.”

Won’t that put a damper on the enthusiasm of many of Rudy’s close friends and supporters?

Other news:

US could be heading for recession

Last Updated: 9:42am BST 27/08/2007

Ex-Treasury Secretary Summers warns of risks ‘greater than any since aftermath of 9/11′, reports Ambrose Evans-Pritchard

Subprime crisis in full
Ambrose Evans-Pritchard: Prepare for the crunch
Former US Treasury Secretary Larry Summers warned that the United States may be heading into recession as the biggest victim to date of the sub-prime mortgage debacle was humiliatingly sold for a token sum in Germany.

Traders are braced for another week of turmoil after the near breakdown of America’s $2,200bn (£1,100bn) market for commercial paper.

“It would be far too premature to judge this crisis over,” Mr Summers said. “I would say the risks of recession are now greater than they’ve been any time since the period in the aftermath of 9/11.”
…

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/mon…..con127.xml

[Mod Note; Edited by Mod for length. To help keep the FDL servers running smoothly and to avoid any copyright issues, please do not post entire articles. Thank you. ]

well, what a nice day. I am slightly less filled with seething rage.

Um, wasn’t Bill Clinton impeached over “the pleasure of the President”?

step up to the plate now dems – shumer on making great points

I must say, this resignation is doing a good job of keeping my mind occupied after putting my 5 year old on the school bus this morning…

September 17, 2007 – Gonzales resignation effective.

September 17, 1787 – U.S. Constitution signed.

Two good things to celebrate on September 17!

Frank Probst @ 18

Um, wasn’t Bill Clinton impeached over “the pleasure of the President”?

Define ‘pleasure’!

The fact is you can’t stick up a bank “at the pleasure of the President.”

You can, however, apparently stick up the US Treasury. All you need is a shell company and an Iraqi reconstruction contract, a Katrina reconstruction contract, or a military supplier contract.

No auditors need apply.

It will most interesting to see how the Democrats handle the confirmation process. As to the Bush presser, I don’t think I could take that.

Reid will roll over and do exactly what Rove tells him to do. As will Pelosi. They’re frauds. The ‘investigations’ will go nowhere, quickly.

{{{{{Jane!}}}}}}

…like the job of everyone working at his behest is pleasuring him without limit.

Seems to me, the “pleasuring” is kinda what got Big Dog in trouble there a few years ago.

And the unchallenged notion that hacks like Cornyn are putting forward — that it was never “proven” that Gonzales did anything wrong — just defy credulity.

And to once again quote Mr. Rumsfeld, “Absence of proof is not the same as proof of absence.”

I am so out of the loop. Been sick. But happy to hear Abu is leaving. Any theories on why Gonzales finally resigned? It seemed like he was going to stick to his firewall for Chimpy job come hell or high water.

No confirmation until an independent counsel is name to investigate US attorney firings. Period.

I’m a bit tired of hearing that George Bush can do anything he wants with people who serve “at the pleasure of the President,”

I made this point downstairs regarding those talking points and how the democrats need to respond

the president does NOT have the rights to fire someone for “any reason”

if the president is obstructing justice by firing someone, if he is impeding an investigation by firing someone, if he is preventing charges preferred or if he is forcing charges preferred that should not be preferred he is NOT allowed

now, if he CLAIMS it’s because of the color of a person’s hair and there was no evidence it was rather an obustruction of justice, then these talking points might have be correct but even then I doubt it

MIGHT have a point

becuase no matter what the president does, it is never the less subject to congress allowing him to do it, they Always have the ability to stop a president if he is acting in a depraved maner that is detrimental to our republic

Frank Probst @ 18

Um, wasn’t Bill Clinton impeached over “the pleasure of the President”?

I think that a “spew” alert would have been very appropriate here.

kdh22 @ 22

Frank Probst @ 18

Um, wasn’t Bill Clinton impeached over “the pleasure of the President”?

Define ‘pleasure’!

‘I never had pleasure with that woman’.

Sorry if someone noted this before but CNN is reporting that Bush will put Clay Johnson an old high school and college friend (and political crony) in to replace Chernof at Homeland Security. He has zip experience in this area.
http://thinkprogress.org/

BigMitch @ 12

Breaking news: Barney the Dog resignes also.

More Breaking News: Laura Bush Requests Divorce. Plans to move to New York City. Says, “I just could not stand the prospect of moving back to Texas. God, I hate that place. No more fucking brush.”

Nothing has changed – Bush & Co. continue to call the shots, shrugging off criticism, making political replacements when they want to … the Democrats continue to bitch and moan, but what have they ever accomplished? Impeachment was the only answer, and Nancy nipped that one in the bud from the get-go …

Wow, Michael Vick just gave the full-responsibility, I lied and will do my time speech Gonzo should’ve. Methinks limbaugh is gonna choke on his fat cigar.

but you approved him, didn’t you? You approved a whole bunch of crooks, didn’t you? You let cheney do you in every orifice (as if the impotent could use the tool) you did nothing to stop him, nothing. You haven’t put a hold on one single bill that these criminals have rammed up your backside

You don’t represent me, and we need actual leadership in this country. do the right thing and resign. let someone else do it if you are too tired or compromised by scandal

more news:
State ban on political pay to spouses urged
Clean government advocates want to bar lawmakers from putting relatives on campaign payrolls. Practice is defended as legal.
By Patrick McGreevy, Los Angeles Times Staff Writer
August 27, 2007

SACRAMENTO — A California congressman who recently won House approval of a bill that would prevent federal legislators from placing spouses on their campaign payrolls has joined advocates for clean government in calling for the state to also prohibit the controversial practice.
[snip]
Rep. Adam Schiff (D-Burbank) won House approval of a bill last month that he said would end the “potentially corrupt practice” of members of Congress writing big checks from donor funds to their spouses for services.

“When it’s the spouse who gets campaign money, it goes directly into the officeholder’s pocket and that’s a grievous conflict of interest,” Schiff, a former state senator, said. His wife, Eve, is a former marketing researcher who is a stay-at-home mom and does not work for pay on his campaigns.

Although his bill has gone to the U.S. Senate for consideration, Schiff said California should follow the lead of seven other states, including Connecticut, Ohio and Texas, that also have outlawed the payments to spouses.

CA legislators are paid $113,000 a year. I guess that isn’t enough for them to live in the style to which they wish to become accustomed. (Some of them aren’t worth that much pay per year.)

mui @ 27

I am so out of the loop. Been sick. But happy to hear Abu is leaving. Any theories on why Gonzales finally resigned? It seemed like he was going to stick to his firewall for Chimpy job come hell or high water.

Hope it was a passing sickness. Glad you’re better.

JGabriel @ 33

BigMitch @ 12

Breaking news: Barney the Dog resignes also.

More Breaking News: Laura Bush Requests Divorce. Plans to move to New York City. Says, “I just could not stand the prospect of moving back to Texas. God, I hate that place. No more fucking brush.”

and jenna is not marrying rove’s aid, she is marrying her true love, the father of her child who she met abroad

this week has started on a good note – hope this inspires dems to make moves…..and put impeachment back on the table!!

Patty Morlan @ 21

September 17, 2007 – Gonzales resignation effective.

September 17, 1787 – U.S. Constitution signed.

Two good things to celebrate on September 17!

And my son’s birthday.

But damn, isn’t this a good day for the Republic? I mean, even if it does take some time for the right result to work itself out, isn’t it all about the long term health of the country, and getting rid of the cancer that has spready throughout the highest levels?

oldtree @ 36

but you approved him, didn’t you? You approved a whole bunch of crooks, didn’t you? You let cheney do you in every orifice (as if the impotent could use the tool) you did nothing to stop him, nothing. You haven’t put a hold on one single bill that these criminals have rammed up your backside

You don’t represent me, and we need actual leadership in this country. do the right thing and resign. let someone else do it if you are too tired or compromised by scandal

Rich white criminals don’t have to rely on the truth and contrition, they just get pardoned.

Oklahoma kiddo @ 31

kdh22 @ 22

Define ‘pleasure’!

‘I never had pleasure with that woman’.

Ahh, yes, THAT pleasure. Got it.

P J Evans @ 37

more news:
State ban on political pay to spouses urged
Clean government advocates want to bar lawmakers from putting relatives on campaign payrolls. Practice is defended as legal.
By Patrick McGreevy, Los Angeles Times Staff Writer
August 27, 2007

SACRAMENTO — A California congressman who recently won House approval of a bill that would prevent federal legislators from placing spouses on their campaign payrolls has joined advocates for clean government in calling for the state to also prohibit the controversial practice.
[snip]
Rep. Adam Schiff (D-Burbank) won House approval of a bill last month that he said would end the “potentially corrupt practice” of members of Congress writing big checks from donor funds to their spouses for services.

“When it’s the spouse who gets campaign money, it goes directly into the officeholder’s pocket and that’s a grievous conflict of interest,” Schiff, a former state senator, said. His wife, Eve, is a former marketing researcher who is a stay-at-home mom and does not work for pay on his campaigns.

Although his bill has gone to the U.S. Senate for consideration, Schiff said California should follow the lead of seven other states, including Connecticut, Ohio and Texas, that also have outlawed the payments to spouses.

CA legislators are paid $113,000 a year. I guess that isn’t enough for them to live in the style to which they wish to become accustomed. (Some of them aren’t worth that much pay per year.)

More important would be to forbid them from being lobbiest (along with children and other close relatives). That is an even greater problem.

From AP:

”I thank Alberto Gonzales for his public service and wish him well in his future endeavors. It is my hope that whomever President Bush selects as the next attorney general, he or she is not subjected to the same poisonous partisanship that we’ve sadly grown accustomed to over the past eight months.” — Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell.

Ho hum…

Well, JMM is wondering whether the usually suspect wingnut gobshites are starting an astroturf campaign for a recess appointment.

I like the idea that Bush doesn’t get a confirmation hearing until the outstanding subpoenas are treated with respect for the law.

EPU’ed from previous for @204 (or around there):

http://www.tpmmuckraker.com/archives/004006.php

on subpeonas answered in return for confirmation.

mui @ 27

I am so out of the loop. Been sick. But happy to hear Abu is leaving. Any theories on why Gonzales finally resigned? It seemed like he was going to stick to his firewall for Chimpy job come hell or high water.

The rumors I’ve seen involve Leahy strolling up to the WH and cutting a deal. What Leahy had to force Bush’s hand is unknown to me. And more importantly, what Bush got in return is also unknown as far as I know.

Will someone please send Jim Webb in there to open a pro forma session? Or Barbara Mikulsk?

Bush has had plenty of agreements.

Also, check out Glenn.

None of the old, lame excuses, like those we heard from Rep McNerny this weekend apply here.

Bush desperately needs a new firewall. The Congress cannot let him put one in.

carmen @ 38

mui @ 27

I am so out of the loop. Been sick. But happy to hear Abu is leaving. Any theories on why Gonzales finally resigned? It seemed like he was going to stick to his firewall for Chimpy job come hell or high water.

Hope it was a passing sickness. Glad you’re better.

Hay fever turned totally toxic. It’ll pass. Hopefully I am at the tail end.

pseudonymous in nc @ 46

Well, JMM is wondering whether the usually suspect wingnut gobshites are starting an astroturf campaign for a recess appointment.

I like the idea that Bush doesn’t get a confirmation hearing until the outstanding subpoenas are treated with respect for the law.

well i like the train of thought but we would be without an ag, left with the acting ag

not a good idea for us

mui @ 27

I am so out of the loop. Been sick. But happy to hear Abu is leaving. Any theories on why Gonzales finally resigned? It seemed like he was going to stick to his firewall for Chimpy job come hell or high water.

Darn. Was gonna post a YouTube of The Call’s “And the Walls Came Down”, but it has been removed “for misuse”. Strange.

Want me to sing it?

Frank Probst @ 18

Um, wasn’t Bill Clinton impeached over “the pleasure of the President”?

I remain perplexed by the Republican conceit that screwing an intern is an impeachable offense, but screwing the Constitution is not.

MOds–

I’m very sorry. I didn’t preview.

~~~ModNote: Fixed. OK.~~~

off 4 now, c u L8ter firedogs

Preach it, Jane. You are So right on.
And, I agree with the comment above. If Bush urged Rove and Gonzalez to leave their posts to squirm out of oversight committees getting the truth that he is indeed responsible for the policitization of agendas, then, isn’t he obstruction justice?

I don’t even care. I’m just glad that he and Rove are gone. Not that it’s going to change anything. Still, after 11 months in the desert, I’ll take what I can get.

Watching the Bush admin crumble is, I would imagine, a bit like watching a nuclear reactor meltdown in progress. A plume of fire here, a burst of smoke there, the blast of an occasional heat sink overloading. My question is, what’s it going to look like when the whole thing goes critical?

And how will we know?

phred @ 48

mui @ 27

I am so out of the loop. Been sick. But happy to hear Abu is leaving. Any theories on why Gonzales finally resigned? It seemed like he was going to stick to his firewall for Chimpy job come hell or high water.

The rumors I’ve seen involve Leahy strolling up to the WH and cutting a deal. What Leahy had to force Bush’s hand is unknown to me. And more importantly, what Bush got in return is also unknown as far as I know.

Ewww. Intriguing though.

jwc @ 41

Patty Morlan @ 21

September 17, 2007 – Gonzales resignation effective.

September 17, 1787 – U.S. Constitution signed.

Two good things to celebrate on September 17!

And my son’s birthday.

But damn, isn’t this a good day for the Republic? I mean, even if it does take some time for the right result to work itself out, isn’t it all about the long term health of the country, and getting rid of the cancer that has spready throughout the highest levels?

That depends entirely on who replaces AGAG. If it is Chertoff, and if he has a fondness for Stasi-like law and order at LHP suggested in the thread below, then no. It may not be an improvement at all.

jayt @ 52

mui @ 27

I am so out of the loop. Been sick. But happy to hear Abu is leaving. Any theories on why Gonzales finally resigned? It seemed like he was going to stick to his firewall for Chimpy job come hell or high water.

Darn. Was gonna post a YouTube of The Call’s “And the Walls Came Down”, but it has been removed “for misuse”. Strange.

Want me to sing it?

Please. And follow up with “Let the Day Begin” (Gore’s old campaign song.)

:)

jayt @ 52

mui @ 27

I am so out of the loop. Been sick. But happy to hear Abu is leaving. Any theories on why Gonzales finally resigned? It seemed like he was going to stick to his firewall for Chimpy job come hell or high water.

Darn. Was gonna post a YouTube of The Call’s “And the Walls Came Down”, but it has been removed “for misuse”. Strange.

Want me to sing it?

If you can. If people are around just whisper into the toobz I guess.

Read the entire article, long but informative, this is only part of it.

http://www.911blogger.com/node/10634

Webster Tarpley: “Helicopter Ben Releases Dollar Hyperinflation”
( Home » Webster Tarpley:… )
Submitted by Reprehensor on Tue, 08/14/2007 – 11:05am.
Webster Tarpley

Digg it.

(In this timely, informative piece, Webster Tarpley draws on his many years as an observer of economic and financial indicators to provide context for his continued warnings of Synthetic Terror events as a desperate attempt to prop up a crumbling currency, (the US dollar), and to initiate war with Iran to keep the wheels of the Military Industrial Complex greased. Tarpley levels much criticism at the current Chairman of the Fed, exposes Cheney’s backers, and has some points to make regarding public pronouncements by Ron Paul about last week’s credit market panic and where interest rates are situated. An interesting read. –rep.)

———————————————-

HELICOPTER BEN UNLEASHES DOLLAR HYPERINFLATION

By Webster G. Tarpley

Washington DC – August 12, 2007 – By deciding to ante up $38 billion for a hopeless bailout of predatory Wall Street hedge funds and the banks that stand behind them, Federal Reserve Chairman Helicopter Ben Bernanke has placed the bankrupt US dollar on a direct course towards the precipice of hyperinflation. In so doing, he has given new momentum to the backers and controllers of Dick Cheney, who favor an insane flight forward into general war with Iran, deluding themselves that they can thus escape from both military defeat in Iraq and Afghanistan, and from the death agony of the dollar.

[Mod Note; Edited by Mod for length. To help keep the FDL servers running smoothly and to avoid any copyright issues, please do not post entire articles. Thank you. ]

another rat has left this stinking ship of “state”…

“Want me to sing it?” jayt

Loud. I’m on an island in MA.

Schumer and Leahy’s bellicosity on continuing the hearings is meaningless. If there is no impeachment action taken against at least one of the malefactors, the investigation track we have been on is to slow and will effectively go nowhere. As we get to close to the truth on any given subject, another pissant rat will resign, thus draining that momentum; then all of a sudden it is the election and inauguration. Then in eight years, these same jerks from the Bush Administration will pop up again and do even worse again to us. This is the pattern. Watergate, Iran-Contra, and here we go again. When will the Democrats ever learn to put a stake in the heart of this corrupt and criminal ethos?

Ho Hum!

”The life of Alberto Gonzales has been defined by his devotion to family and deep commitment to public service. … I appreciate his hard work in defense of our country and look forward to his future contributions.” — House Republican Whip Roy Blunt.

Oh Jane.. you nailed it. Two brilliant points I was trying to make in earlier threads.

These thugs think they won the election and they can appoint anyone they want… end of story. Winner takes all.

And of course, this makes those who want to hold these snits accountable seem like they want to be petty and not move on with the people’s work.

Very cynical stuff.

The man broke the law multiple times and I will never ever ever forgive him for the torture done on HIS WATCH.

Frank Probst @ 18

Um, wasn’t Bill Clinton impeached over “the pleasure of the President”?

Damn you guys are on a roll today…

I just realized that I forgot to mention that this is the best monday that I have had in the longest time. Hope is so invigorating.

shrub giving his presser

caller on c-span, who voted for Bush in 2000 and 2004 and was a Republican – says Bush is no Republican and that AG leaving is a “breath of fresh air” – hopes more will follow including Bush.

For Sen. Cornyn, over at TPM Muckraker they have the top six provable lies that Gonzo has told listed. I don’t recalls haven’t been specifically proven to be lies yet so they’re not included.

Oh, sh-t, here comes Chimpy.

I’m already nauseated just looking at his helicopter.

boosh presser on NOW

shrub sounds and looks pissed.

demi @ 56

Preach it, Jane. You are So right on.
And, I agree with the comment above. If Bush urged Rove and Gonzalez to leave their posts to squirm out of oversight committees getting the truth that he is indeed responsible for the policitization of agendas, then, isn’t he obstruction justice?

ChimpCO is obstruction personified.

Will the Dems do as good a job on the confirmation of the new AG as they did on Roberts and that other right wing hack, Alito?

How do you know when the Shrub is lying?

Yep, itz all about the lipz….

Bush up, how pathetic. Gonzales a man of integrity and now he’s listing all kinds of crap that Gonzales apparently “accomplished”.

OldCoastie @ 75

shrub sounds and looks pissed.

he’s really doing that over-inflection thing today…

chimpy speaking with great punchiness.

ratta-tat-tat!

anne @ 70

caller on c-span, who voted for Bush in 2000 and 2004 and was a Republican – says Bush is no Republican and that AG leaving is a “breath of fresh air” – hopes more will follow including Bush.

I’ve been loving those callers as of late.

ya b real scared about that harry reid threat. the man is spineless and couldnt get to the bottom of a case of mallomars

OldCoastie @ 73

shrub sounds and looks pissed.

He’s mad because there’s much brush to harvest and he has to talk about Gonzo instead.

Oh, boo-fucking-hoo, chimpy.

zennurse @ 64

“Want me to sing it?” jayt

Loud. I’m on an island in MA.

Oooooooh! I’m jealous. Vacating? or home. ;->

“his good name was dragged through the mud for political reasons” – the shrub…

yikes!

Sooo, Clement interim.

P J Evans @ 37

more news:
State ban on political pay to spouses urged
Clean government advocates want to bar lawmakers from putting relatives on campaign payrolls. Practice is defended as legal.
By Patrick McGreevy, Los Angeles Times Staff Writer
August 27, 2007

SACRAMENTO — A California congressman who recently won House approval of a bill that would prevent federal legislators from placing spouses on their campaign payrolls has joined advocates for clean government in calling for the state to also prohibit the controversial practice.
[snip]
Rep. Adam Schiff (D-Burbank) won House approval of a bill last month that he said would end the “potentially corrupt practice” of members of Congress writing big checks from donor funds to their spouses for services.

“When it’s the spouse who gets campaign money, it goes directly into the officeholder’s pocket and that’s a grievous conflict of interest,” Schiff, a former state senator, said. His wife, Eve, is a former marketing researcher who is a stay-at-home mom and does not work for pay on his campaigns.

Although his bill has gone to the U.S. Senate for consideration, Schiff said California should follow the lead of seven other states, including Connecticut, Ohio and Texas, that also have outlawed the payments to spouses.

CA legislators are paid $113,000 a year. I guess that isn’t enough for them to live in the style to which they wish to become accustomed. (Some of them aren’t worth that much pay per year.)

Now *that’s* something that should be put on the initiative ballot if the CA legislature is too spineless or corrupt to push that through…I’m amazed Texas is ahead of us in this respect…

Oklahoma kiddo @ 76

Will the Dems do as good a job on the confirmation of the new AG as they did on Roberts and that other right wing hack, Alito?

Umm that was back when the Repugs had the majority. And everyone was still in Chimpy’s thrall.

“A talented and honorable person is impeded in doing good work and his good name is dragged through the mud for political reasons.” Yuck.

” A talented and honest person” Gag me with a smurf.

BigMitch @ 12

Breaking news: Barney the Dog resignes also.

Wants to spend more time with his family. Apparently, he misses the warmth and intelligence.

Richmond @ 32

Sorry if someone noted this before but CNN is reporting that Bush will put Clay Johnson an old high school and college friend (and political crony) in to replace Chernof at Homeland Security. He has zip experience in this area.
http://thinkprogress.org/

From a site linked to from the thinkprogress linky above:

As long as Bush’s assistant, Karen Keller, says the president is free, Johnson is one of a half dozen administration officials who can see the president without a scheduled appointment. He is probably the only person to have spanked Barney, a Scottish terrier and the presidential dog.

“Barney was on the oval carpet making a nuisance of himself,” Johnson told me. “So I spanked him and told him, ‘No!’ and I put him on the sofa with me. I think that’s the only time he’s been spanked.”

Pieces are starting to fall into place. A picture emerges.

OldCoastie @ 75

shrub sounds and looks pissed.

Oh good. Poor booshie not getting his way, perhaps?

Says Bush, “Important laws bear his imprint.”

Says PTrig, “The Constitution bears the imprint of Gonzales’s foot.”

Bush says there will be a Senate confirmation.

beth meacham @ 10

Comey. The Senate Judiciary Committee should insist on Comey.

Comey is a REPUBLICAN.

He is certainly qualified.

He can get lots of Dem votes–in fact his confirmation hearing would be a walk in the park and would srop the likely wholesale resignations that are likely to occur if Chertoff or Leiberman are the nominee.

Comey is confirmable and qualified.

However, would Bush run the risk of having a man with scruples in that job?

Admittedly, a guy like Comey who truly does love the Department would be so swamped trying to fix all that is broken in the Dpet. that he might not have the time or energy to do the kinds of investigations that would make the pups happy.

It could be that Comey would be so caught up with fixing things that Bush might be safe from him.

something’s up – chimpy didn’t want gonzo to quit…

reminds me of the rove presser but without the tears.

Prairie Sunshine @ 77

How do you know when the Shrub is lying?

Yep, itz all about the lipz….

Whenever he speaks.

Take a good look at how Bush is playing this and let your Democratic leaders hear about your displeasure at how they have handled this. It is flat out pitiful.

OldCoastie @ 87

“his good name was dragged through the mud for political reasons” – the shrub…

yikes!

Listen to the tape. Big pause before saying “mud” – choking on it?

Random thoughts:

1. The only person who could knife both Rove and Gonzo in the back is Cheney, and we haven’t seen much of him lately. If Addington gets the nom for next AG, I’d say this was all a Cheney operation.

1a. There’s no way in hell Addington would survive confirmation hearings. He just doesn’t know when to stop talking. He was one of the most devastating witnesses against Libby at trial.

2. Before folks even start talking about the Hatch Act, let me nip that idea in the bud and say that there’s no way in hell that he’s resigning over Hatch Act violations. Ditto for Rove. All of the Hatch Act violations can be spun as “inappropriate PowerPoint presentations”, and there’s no simple counter-spin. John Q Public wouldn’t care about something like this.

3. The one big thing out there that links Gonzo and Rove is Sealed v Sealed. Can anyone with PACER access confirm that that case is still pending?

What is the statute of limitations for lying to a congressional committed doing oversight? Off course there is no time limit for indicting him for war crimes.

Did anyone else notice that Bush hesitated on Gonzales name and looked at his notes.

Bush: Albertos’ name was dragged through the mud for political reasons.

Denial ain’t just a river in Egypt. Sheesh

OldCoastie @ 87

“his good name was dragged through the mud for political reasons” – the shrub…

yikes!

that part made me physically sick

Little Boots looked really mad in the way he walked – stomping angrily and stiffly up the stairs

I think the DEms need to call Chimpy out….saying Abu was dragged thru the mud…shytt the Constitution was dragged thru the mud….He is just a disgrace!

oh, Bush, STFU! Gonzo has no one to blame but himself here… Mr. Torture Authorizer and Attorney Purger… if bad people get ousted for “political reasons,” than maybe politics isn’t as bad as people say…

Richmond @ 32

Sorry if someone noted this before but CNN is reporting that Bush will put Clay Johnson an old high school and college friend (and political crony) in to replace Chernof at Homeland Security. He has zip experience in this area.
http://thinkprogress.org/

Weren’t there rumors that these two were a bit “playful” back in the day.

My guess is Chertoff will become AG in a recess appointment. I’d bet money on it.

PTrig @ 95

Says Bush, “Important laws bear his imprint.”

Says PTrig, “The Constitution bears the imprint of Gonzales’s foot.”

Bush says there will be a Senate confirmation.

I wouldn’t have said that part of his anatomy he used was his foot…

anne @ 70

caller on c-span, who voted for Bush in 2000 and 2004 and was a Republican – says Bush is no Republican and that AG leaving is a “breath of fresh air” – hopes more will follow including Bush.

Except that’s the meme that they’ll use as an excuse “Bush is no Republican.”

Well, pardon the f*ck outta me but that dog don’t hunt at ALL. He was elected twice to the Presidency and twice as Governor of Texas under the Republican Party ballot line. And I doubt if that caller was disavowing him during those elections. So to try to claim now that he’s not a Republican is just so much bullsh*t and has to be called for what it is.

looseheadprop @ 97

beth meacham @ 10

Comey. The Senate Judiciary Committee should insist on Comey.

Comey is a REPUBLICAN.

He is certainly qualified.

He can get lots of Dem votes–in fact his confirmation hearing would be a walk in the park and would srop the likely wholesale resignations that are likely to occur if Chertoff or Leiberman are the nominee.

Comey is confirmable and qualified.

However, would Bush run the risk of having a man with scruples in that job?

Admittedly, a guy like Comey who truly does love the Department would be so swamped trying to fix all that is broken in the Dpet. that he might not have the time or energy to do the kinds of investigations that would make the pups happy.

It could be that Comey would be so caught up with fixing things that Bush might be safe from him.

Now LHP, you don’t really believe there is one chance in hell of Bush nominating Comey do you? I don’t….

“I’m sure one of the goals of all these resignations”

ha ha ha

resignations?

no freaking way

they were asked to leave so they left

nobody in that crowd takes independent action

that should be one of the questions to break the frame: you say you resigned but when did the preznit ask you to leave

mui @ 89

Oklahoma kiddo @ 76

Will the Dems do as good a job on the confirmation of the new AG as they did on Roberts and that other right wing hack, Alito?

Umm that was back when the Repugs had the majority. And everyone was still in Chimpy’s thrall.

I realize that, but as it stands right now I’m not very proud of my party (Dems). Neither apparently are a majority of Americans. ;0)

Chertoff could be worse than Gonzales in DOJ. Easy.

Bad enough Israel calls the shots at Defense.

OldCoastie @ 74

shrub sounds and looks pissed.

He’s drunk? Again?

bmaz @ 65

Schumer and Leahy’s bellicosity on continuing the hearings is meaningless. If there is no impeachment action taken against at least one of the malefactors, the investigation track we have been on is to slow and will effectively go nowhere. As we get to close to the truth on any given subject, another pissant rat will resign, thus draining that momentum; then all of a sudden it is the election and inauguration. Then in eight years, these same jerks from the Bush Administration will pop up again and do even worse again to us. This is the pattern. Watergate, Iran-Contra, and here we go again. When will the Democrats ever learn to put a stake in the heart of this corrupt and criminal ethos?

I disagree here. They should keep the hearings going even if there is zero chance of any more resignations. The reason the hearings got started in the first place was the improper use of the DOJ to try to sway the 2006 elections. Ongoing hearings will prevent them from trying the same stunt in 2008.

I still say something is up. The press is pushing Chimpy needs to get things done, I think that someon has some reall dirt on Rover and Gonzo and maybe it will be coming out….Chimpy lookede awfully madd he was stomping and spitting like the spoiled LOSER he always has bee in office.

Fox news had it right, Paul Clement to be acting AG. He sounds like some one who wouldn’t be confirmed.

When tree limbs fall they are usually picked up & put in a pile to be burned, ground up, or saved for a future use.
Maybe the fallen limbs have another project to do? What will he do when he leaves??

Bush at the podium: “Whaaaaaaa-a-aa-a-a–aaahhhhhhHHHHH!!! Peeples was mean to my Homie!!!

Cry me a muthafuckin’ tsunami, Pissy Boy. Good friggin’ riddance to criminal Gonzo.

EPU’d Milwaukee Journal Sentinel is reporting that Solicitor General, Paul Clement will take over as interim AG.

As fate would have it, he’s coming to Seattle today for that Reichert fundraiser thingy–which will totally foul-up traffic on the one day all season we’re going to see the M’s (crush the Angels).

If we could just impeach him by 2pm PST, lots of folks around here would really appreciate it!

Wonder if Junya gave Fredo a “Get Out Of Jail Free” card/pardon as a going-away present?

Shorter Junya: “Keep those lips locked Fredo and Barney will take care of ya.”

something’s up, something’s UP… between Gonzo running (and I’m talking running) away from any questions after his presser and the shrub’s foot-stompin’ exit…

something or someone is MAKING gonzo be gone…

Will Alberto be staying at the Harriett Meyers safe house?

Remember the Hague!

Adie @ 84

zennurse @ 64

“Want me to sing it?” jayt

Loud. I’m on an island in MA.

home on Cape Ann north of Boston, Gloucester/Rockport. We are really an island, connected to the state by two bridges which are both “on the list”.
Here….. have some ocean, I have plenty. ;-)

Oooooooh! I’m jealous. Vacating? or home. ;->

So wierd to watch the newsies going back and forth between the Gonzo story and the Michael Vick story. But, if you think of the American Public as human animals, both stories are about Animal Abuse.

PeterB says:
August 27th, 2007 at 8:37 am

No confirmation until an independent counsel is name to investigate US attorney firings. Period.

I agree with the sentiment but:

He’s appointing a HUGE A-Hole as Acting so it’s no great loss. He could finish with the Acting and be just peachy keen about it. Not that Chertoff’s gonna be any better.

Anyone notice the resemblance between Chertoff and the Devil? This is a serious question.

I don’t think there’s a chance in hell that Bush would nominate Comey. But he would be a very good choice for a quick, painless confirmation process. He’s a real Republican, but has a demonstrated devotion to the law and the Constitution.

looseheadprop @ 96

beth meacham @ 10

Comey. The Senate Judiciary Committee should insist on Comey.

Comey is a REPUBLICAN.

He is certainly qualified.

He can get lots of Dem votes–in fact his confirmation hearing would be a walk in the park and would srop the likely wholesale resignations that are likely to occur if Chertoff or Leiberman are the nominee.

Comey is confirmable and qualified.

However, would Bush run the risk of having a man with scruples in that job?

Admittedly, a guy like Comey who truly does love the Department would be so swamped trying to fix all that is broken in the Dpet. that he might not have the time or energy to do the kinds of investigations that would make the pups happy.

It could be that Comey would be so caught up with fixing things that Bush might be safe from him.

Let’s all hope Bush appoints Comey. Things could get interesting. I mean nominates.

I would love to know whether Sen. Whitehouse put together a package that Sen. Leahy took to the White House. If so, that must have been at least a little satisfying.

Just so long as the deal was NOT that The People do not get to know the truth of what was done. “Government OF the People, BY the People, and FOR the People shall not perish from the Earth.” Remember that, Congress-People.

Sen. Reid:

“Alberto Gonzales was never the right man for this job. He lacked independence, he lacked judgment, and he lacked the spine to say no to Karl Rove…”

I don’t remember. Anyone recall how Sen. Reid voted on Gonzales’ appointment?

Also,

SanderO @ 66

…These thugs think they won the election and they can appoint anyone they want… end of story. Winner takes all…

And it goes without saying that the instant a Democrat is sworn in as president the Republicans will switch quantum states from “the President is omnipotent” to “a President has no legitimate powers of any kind” without the slightest hint of shame or cognitive dissonance.

Count on it.

OldCoastie @ 120

something’s up, something’s UP… between Gonzo running (and I’m talking running) away from any questions after his presser and the shrub’s foot-stompin’ exit…

something or someone is MAKING gonzo be gone…

Maybe George H.W. Bush is finally stepping in to clean up W’s mess.

grouch potato @ 108

Richmond @ 32

Sorry if someone noted this before but CNN is reporting that Bush will put Clay Johnson an old high school and college friend (and political crony) in to replace Chernof at Homeland Security. He has zip experience in this area.
http://thinkprogress.org/

Weren’t there rumors that these two were a bit “playful” back in the day.

My guess is Chertoff will become AG in a recess appointment. I’d bet money on it.

Sorry, but I just don’t see it. Chertoff makes people think of Katrina, which is the last thing that Bush wants or needs. He just can’t afford to pull a stunt like this.

mui @ 81

anne @ 70

caller on c-span, who voted for Bush in 2000 and 2004 and was a Republican – says Bush is no Republican and that AG leaving is a “breath of fresh air” – hopes more will follow including Bush.

I’ve been loving those callers as of late.

That’s not real improvement, though. The real improvement is when they realize Bush *is* a real Republican, and that the Republicans are a bunch of treasonous, bug-shit crazy, anti-American Tories and Cromwellians.

CNNs bush-loving Malveaux just labelled Gonzo’s gutting as ‘a lynching’. eesh.

Fox news had it right,

Leave it to the WH to leak this to their favorites. Why the f*ck does the rest of the media, NYT’s, Compost …. still put up with Bush’s bullshit games.

carmen @ 90

“A talented and honorable person is impeded in doing good work and his good name is dragged through the mud for political reasons.” Yuck.

I think he actually said “impeding”

Do we have Dr. Freud on retainer yet?

Elections matter folks. None of this would’ve happened had we not won the majority last year.

I agree with OldCoastie at 97. I don’t think Bush wanted him to quit. He wanted Gonzo to hang in there and cover him. That’s why he’s pissed.

Someone noted that no one from Cheney’s office is being forced out (except Libby, of course). Makes me wonder if the OVP is behind any of this.

uh ohhhhhhh – chimpy’s gonna give us a spanking…..ooooooooooooo is he pissed!! warning look out america

JGabriel @ 132

mui @ 81

I’ve been loving those callers as of late.

That’s not real improvement, though. The real improvement is when they realize Bush *is* a real Republican, and that the Republicans are a bunch of treasonous, bug-shit crazy, anti-American Tories and Cromwellians.

Well Lowell Weicker thinks he was a real Republican. And that the Dems and Repugs shifted to the right. & he stayed the same. So . . .

OldCoastie @ 86

“his good name was dragged through the mud for political reasons” – the shrub…

yikes!

Shrub should know. He did the dragging.

Obama Statement on the Resignation of Alberto Gonzales
Washington DC | August 27, 2007
Barack Obama today released the following statement on the resignation of Attorney General Alberto Gonzales.

“I have long believed that Alberto Gonzales subverted justice to promote a political agenda, and so I am pleased that he has finally resigned today. The President needs to nominate an Attorney General who will be the people’s lawyer, not the President’s lawyer, and in an Obama Administration that person will first and foremost defend and promote the rights and liberties enshrined in our Constitution,” said Obama.

http://www.barackobama.com/200…..esigna.php

(emphasis mine)

bmaz @ 110

Now LHP, you don’t really believe there is one chance in hell of Bush nominating Comey do you? I don’t….

The point is to have man-crush Matthews discussing why Bush wouldn’t nominate Comey. Not enough of a loyal Bushie? Demonstrated independence? Has shown a degree of concern for the rule of law?

Establishing a narrative in which a Republican former DAG is not enough of a toady to get the nom? I think that’s valuable in itself.

Franco @ 115

I still say something is up. The press is pushing Chimpy needs to get things done, I think that someon has some reall dirt on Rover and Gonzo and maybe it will be coming out….Chimpy lookede awfully madd he was stomping and spitting like the spoiled LOSER he always has bee in office.

How about the spoiled LOSER he has always been in life?

Frank Probst @ 114

bmaz @ 65

Schumer and Leahy’s bellicosity on continuing the hearings is meaningless. If there is no impeachment action taken against at least one of the malefactors, the investigation track we have been on is to slow and will effectively go nowhere. As we get to close to the truth on any given subject, another pissant rat will resign, thus draining that momentum; then all of a sudden it is the election and inauguration. Then in eight years, these same jerks from the Bush Administration will pop up again and do even worse again to us. This is the pattern. Watergate, Iran-Contra, and here we go again. When will the Democrats ever learn to put a stake in the heart of this corrupt and criminal ethos?

I disagree here. They should keep the hearings going even if there is zero chance of any more resignations. The reason the hearings got started in the first place was the improper use of the DOJ to try to sway the 2006 elections. Ongoing hearings will prevent them from trying the same stunt in 2008.

Frank, I agree with your statement one hundred percent in that regard. I was talking more in terms of accountability and educating the public on what has really happened so that they do not tolerate the same people, and same things, happening again. But you are absolutely right on your point.

jayt @ 134

carmen @ 90

“A talented and honorable person is impeded in doing good work and his good name is dragged through the mud for political reasons.” Yuck.

I think he actually said “impeding”

Do we have Dr. Freud on retainer yet?

Sigmund Freud on George W. Bush: “Some people are just fucking nuts.”

Muck never sleeps.

[channeling GSD]

ES

Adie @ 100

OldCoastie @ 87

“his good name was dragged through the mud for political reasons” – the shrub…

yikes!

Listen to the tape. Big pause before saying “mud” – choking on it?

Chimpy is just a poor reader with a bad memory. Poor syntax, IMHO.

He didn’t know the names of AlberTo’s kids and had to read them carefully from the list. I think Shrub was just as angry about having to get out of bed and make a speech as he was over the resignation.

he sure showed those media folks storming off like that.

Solai @ 135

Someone noted that no one from Cheney’s office is being forced out (except Libby, of course). Makes me wonder if the OVP is behind any of this.

OVP’s behind everything. Bush is just a puppet.

jayt @ 134

carmen @ 90

“A talented and honorable person is impeded in doing good work and his good name is dragged through the mud for political reasons.” Yuck.

I think he actually said “impeding”

Do we have Dr. Freud on retainer yet?

Good one!

moeman @ 142

Obama Statement on the Resignation of Alberto Gonzales
Washington DC | August 27, 2007
Barack Obama today released the following statement on the resignation of Attorney General Alberto Gonzales.

“I have long believed that Alberto Gonzales subverted justice to promote a political agenda, and so I am pleased that he has finally resigned today. The President needs to nominate an Attorney General who will be the people’s lawyer, not the President’s lawyer, and in an Obama Administration that person will first and foremost defend and promote the rights and liberties enshrined in our Constitution,” said Obama.

http://www.barackobama.com/200…..esigna.php

(emphasis mine)

strong move, obama — get out in front and throw down

xlent xlent positioning … tell it

moeman @ 133

CNNs bush-loving Malveaux just labelled Gonzo’s gutting as ‘a lynching’. eesh.

That’s one person who goes through kneepads like Kleenex. Maybe she is trying for Judy Miller’s old record.

demi @ 125

So wierd to watch the newsies going back and forth between the Gonzo story and the Michael Vick story. But, if you think of the American Public as human animals, both stories are about Animal Abuse.

Vick: “I have found Jesus. I am turning my life over to God.”

OldCoastie @ 96

something’s up – chimpy didn’t want gonzo to quit…

reminds me of the rove presser but without the tears.

chimpy showed no particular emotion when rover left. suggest you review the tape.

was only listening this time, & haven’t watched yet, but jr. sounded angry, mebbe white-hot anger.

possibly simply at having to endure the simple task of having to comment on the deed in person.

sounds as if he just wants it over. annoyed.
not used to having to wipe up messes. he has always had people to do that for him. doesn’t sit well for this. poor baby.

Barney’s smart doggie. I’m guessin’ he’s already hiding under the bed. Jr’s in a mood to kick the stuffin’ outta sumpin’

Would someone please hide the football? No. I’m serious. I really really want this guy & that face-shooter away from all the buttons!

demi @ 125

So wierd to watch the newsies going back and forth between the Gonzo story and the Michael Vick story. But, if you think of the American Public as human animals, both stories are about Animal Abuse.

It is an interesting juxtaposition. This administration could learn a little something from Vick about accountability. From Vick’s statement:

“I was ashamed and totally disappointed in myself, to say the least. I want to apologize to all the young kids out there for my immature acts. What I did was very immature, so that means I need to grow up.”

Bush, listen to Vick. Grow up.

I don’t put any stock in faux anger- Clusterfuck may be covering up the fact that he MADE Gonzo go away- he wouldn’t want this to ruin his reputation for mindless stubborness in the face of reason.

Ted Olson being mentioned, Larry Thompson, Fred Tillenger(?sp?) as possible replacements…

Biodun @ 45

From AP:

”I thank Alberto Gonzales for his public service and wish him well in his future endeavors. It is my hope that whomever President Bush selects as the next attorney general, he or she is not subjected to the same poisonous partisanship that we’ve sadly grown accustomed to over the past eight months.” — Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell.

Ho hum…

Well, Rove is gone, so it’s possible that could happen. Oh, wait, he’s talking about Democratic partisanship, isn’t he?

at least Chimpy didn’t say that Alberto was DRUGGED through the mud.
He seemed quite pissy today.
Now it’s off to the left coast for some fund raising for the GOP.
WHEW…..
A tyrants life sure is busy.

rwcole @ 154

I don’t put any stock in faux anger- Clusterfuck may be covering up the fact that he MADE Gonzo go away- he wouldn’t want this to ruin his reputation for mindless stubborness in the face of reason.

Taking time away from the brush harvest would make any brush rancher angry.

BigMitch @ 91

As long as Bush’s assistant, Karen Keller, says the president is free, Johnson is one of a half dozen administration officials who can see the president without a scheduled appointment. He is probably the only person to have spanked Barney, a Scottish terrier and the presidential dog.

“Barney was on the oval carpet making a nuisance of himself,” Johnson told me. “So I spanked him and told him, ‘No!’ and I put him on the sofa with me. I think that’s the only time he’s been spanked.”

Pieces are starting to fall into place. A picture emerges.

Of a dog-spanking fetishist?

Ick… (Goes off to bleach mental eyeballs)

beth meacham @ 10

Comey. The Senate Judiciary Committee should insist on Comey.

too many conflicts. we want Fitz!

JPL @ 103

Did anyone else notice that Bush hesitated on Gonzales name and looked at his notes.

brain hiccup from barely suppressed anger? If he were a pressure canner, I’d leave the room.

And let’s not forget these “Dems” who voted for Gonzo:

on Feb. 3, 2005, when the Senate confirmed Gonzales by a vote of 60 to 36, with six Democrats (Mary Landrieu, Joe Lieberman, Bill Nelson, Ben Nelson, Mark Pryor and Ken Salazar) joining Republicans in giving the president the attorney general whom he wanted.

pseudonymous in nc @ 142

bmaz @ 110

Now LHP, you don’t really believe there is one chance in hell of Bush nominating Comey do you? I don’t….

The point is to have man-crush Matthews discussing why Bush wouldn’t nominate Comey. Not enough of a loyal Bushie? Demonstrated independence? Has shown a degree of concern for the rule of law?

Establishing a narrative in which a Republican former DAG is not enough of a toady to get the nom? I think that’s valuable in itself.

Hey, I am down with that. sounds a little complex for the MSM though…

reminder: whoever gets the ZED should post a note in the previous thread to look upstairs for a new thread! Many of us have missed the new threads because we’re avoiding refreshing on big-news days like today.

I only mention this cuz I’ve missed quite a few new threads, and me and a half-dozen others have been in the old threads long after the new ones popped up.

Back On-topic: I am very comforted by what Leahy and Reid have said. I hope they back it up with more actions. Keep the investigations going. And, as someone mentioned in the last thread, Gonzales can be impeached even after resigning. It’s been done before. Personally, I think his unethical and illegal activities need to be thoroughly investigated and he needs to be impeached and charged. I’m hoping the Democrats won’t suddenly get itchy feet for 2008 and prefer to sweep this whole mess under the rug. Leahy and Reid’s comments make me feel more confident. Looking forward to seeing more action to back up the statements.

I would imagine that like Rove, Mr. Gonzales will be working to elect Republicans in 2008. It’s perhaps very much in his interests, as it is in Roves ‘case’, to do so.

I wish Bush would really really lose it in front of the press. That he would show his true colors and then maybe the 29%’rs would finally give it up.

I saw that Bush was going to be speaking, and for a split second, was about to turn on the TV and watch.

Wait–what the hell am I thinking? I don’t want to watch that!

What I *want* to watch is Jon Stewart’s summation of the speech. Sucks that The Daily Show is on vacation this week.

Solai @ 137

Someone noted that no one from Cheney’s office is being forced out (except Libby, of course). Makes me wonder if the OVP is behind any of this.

/snort

Cheney, pulling the strings? Oh, whatever gives you that idea?

/sarcasm

Franco @ 116

I still say something is up. The press is pushing Chimpy needs to get things done, I think that someon has some reall dirt on Rover and Gonzo and maybe it will be coming out….Chimpy lookede awfully madd he was stomping and spitting like the spoiled LOSER he always has bee in office.

I think the “Party” has decided to stop playing the “decider fiction” with Bush; and the little psychopath got his feelings hurt. I think the “coalition of evil” that makes up the “Party” is seeing all of their hard work going into the shitter and are trying to salvage something from the George Bush mess.

hackworth @ 148

Adie @ 100

Listen to the tape. Big pause before saying “mud” – choking on it?

Chimpy is just a poor reader with a bad memory. Poor syntax, IMHO.

He didn’t know the names of AlberTo’s kids and had to read them carefully from the list. I think Shrub was just as angry about having to get out of bed and make a speech as he was over the resignation.

he sure showed those media folks storming off like that.

yep!

pseudonymous in nc @ 142

bmaz @ 110

Now LHP, you don’t really believe there is one chance in hell of Bush nominating Comey do you? I don’t….

The point is to have man-crush Matthews discussing why Bush wouldn’t nominate Comey. Not enough of a loyal Bushie? Demonstrated independence? Has shown a degree of concern for the rule of law?

Establishing a narrative in which a Republican former DAG is not enough of a toady to get the nom? I think that’s valuable in itself.

Good point, pseudo. Thanks for pointing it out.

Biodun @ 164

And let’s not forget these “Dems” who voted for Gonzo:

on Feb. 3, 2005, when the Senate confirmed Gonzales by a vote of 60 to 36, with six Democrats (Mary Landrieu, Joe Lieberman, Bill Nelson, Ben Nelson, Mark Pryor and Ken Salazar) joining Republicans in giving the president the attorney general whom he wanted.

Great comment, thank you, thank you, thank you.

OT – Edwards live on msnbc

moeman @ 131

CNNs bush-loving Malveaux just labelled Gonzo’s gutting as ‘a lynching’. eesh.

At a presser Chimpy once called her “charming.”

rwcole @ 156

I don’t put any stock in faux anger- Clusterfuck may be covering up the fact that he MADE Gonzo go away- he wouldn’t want this to ruin his reputation for mindless stubborness in the face of reason.

I don’t think Bush is that smart.

I think he was annoyed – AG is his friend – I think even moreso than Rove. Rove was a groupie – a valuable one – but a groupie who fawned over George and his ‘coolness’. Fredo was more like a little brother to pal around with.

From the NYT:

A senior administration official said today that Mr. Gonzales, who was in Washington, had called the president in Crawford, Tex., on Friday to offer his resignation. The president rebuffed the offer, but said the two should talk face to face on Sunday.

Mr. Gonzales and his wife flew to Texas, and over lunch on Sunday the president accepted the resignation with regret, the official said.

Spin? Whyever would you think that?

Millineryman @ 98

Prairie Sunshine @ 77

How do you know when the Shrub is lying?

Yep, itz all about the lipz….

Whenever he speaks.

Or writes.

not bad for hillary

He demonstrated that his loyalties lie with the president and his political agenda, not the American people or the evenhanded and impartial enforcement of our laws. … My hope is that the president will select a new attorney general who will respect the rule of law and abandon partisanship, who will serve the American people and not the presidents political ideology, and who will answer to the Constitution and not political operatives.” _ Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton, D-N.Y.

A question: Paul Clement was one of the few people at the DOJ who didn’t have to recuse himself from the various investigations. Will shifting him to Acting AG create a conflict of interest and leave him unable to deliver opinions on Abu’s previous activities?

Senate confirmation hearings promise drama
Will Democrats impose consensus attorney general nominee on Bush?

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/20460045/

Poor W on holiday had to look down to READ from his Abu resignation presentation between EVERY word, one word at a time, says Abu’s “name – - – -was – - – - -dragged – - – - through- — – the- – - – - – - – - MUD”
YEAH, that’s it, MUD.
COME on, what a whiner and a baby – he probably did not even WRITE that yet read it like a bonehead.
It defies comprehension.
“How’s your memory?” really should be a part of the AG confirmation hearing for whatever toad replaces Abu.
Should be WORSE than Abu’s BEST day on the stand. Chertoff should be asked did YOU fire all those US ATTORNEYS?

The most out-of-character aspect of this whole event is that Bush is promising a Senate confirmation hearing. Someone forced Bush to do this, (and to fire Gonzo.) What was given in return? No direct contempt for refusal to testify by various officials, notably, Harriet Meiers? Just guessing here.

3. The one big thing out there that links Gonzo and Rove is Sealed v Sealed. Can anyone with PACER access confirm that that case is still pending?

You’re talking Fitz here, right?

Only slightly OT.Findlaw’s newest piece on Padilla.

bmaz @ 165

Hey, I am down with that. sounds a little complex for the MSM though…

I don’t think it’s a complex narrative, especially when you’ve got giant talking heads who have a fetish on 50s-style buttoned-up men.

Leahy shrugs and says, ‘you know, Jim Comey impressed us when he testified’. Tweety asks a GOPper gobshite why Comey isn’t on the shortlist. GOPper says ‘well, the Democrats like him’. It brings the hackishness of the expected nominee into focus.

And Little Boots was a petulant child today, wasn’t he?

Mad Dogs @ 180

From the NYT:

A senior administration official said today that Mr. Gonzales, who was in Washington, had called the president in Crawford, Tex., on Friday to offer his resignation. The president rebuffed the offer, but said the two should talk face to face on Sunday.

Mr. Gonzales and his wife flew to Texas, and over lunch on Sunday the president accepted the resignation with regret, the official said.

Spin? Whyever would you think that?

fixed the nyt typo:

VP Cheney said today that Mr. Gonzales, who was in Washington, was ordered to “submit his resignation” and broke down in tears and had to be crried from the room. The president wept like a baby, when told of the news

gallery @ 159

at least Chimpy didn’t say that Alberto was DRUGGED through the mud.
He seemed quite pissy today.
Now it’s off to the left coast for some fund raising for the GOP.
WHEW…..
A tyrants life sure is busy.

Fundraising? Hmmm. That should make him even more pissy.

Hugh @ 180

A question: Paul Clement was one of the few people, LEFT at the DOJ who didn’t have to recuse himself from the various investigations. Will shifting him to Acting AG create a conflict of interest and leave him unable to deliver opinions on Abu’s previous activities?

There Hugh, I fixed it for you

landofthefree – HI!

I doubt more than a few are able to keep up today.

I’m just surprised and pleased the hamsters are in such good form. Whew!

I tried to keep track of pressers & this too, & nearly lost both, puff puff.

carmen @ 168

I wish Bush would really really lose it in front of the press. That he would show his true colors and then maybe the 29%’rs would finally give it up.

No, they wouldn’t give it up…it would seem just like Thanksgiving dinner to them with the alcoholic dad finally giving everyone the show they knew was coming so everyone could relax while he stews in his resentments.

Bush needs a fucking meeting.

carolyn urban @ 185

3. The one big thing out there that links Gonzo and Rove is Sealed v Sealed. Can anyone with PACER access confirm that that case is still pending?

You’re talking Fitz here, right?

Yup.

Little Boots–Bush? I hadn’t heard that one before. Does it have a history?

BigMitch @ 184

The most out-of-character aspect of this whole event is that Bush is promising a Senate confirmation hearing. Someone forced Bush to do this, (and to fire Gonzo.) What was given in return? No direct contempt for refusal to testify by various officials, notably, Harriet Meiers? Just guessing here.

Bingo. I’ll bet that is what he’s really pissed about.

landofthefree @ 170

Solai @ 137

Someone noted that no one from Cheney’s office is being forced out (except Libby, of course). Makes me wonder if the OVP is behind any of this.

/snort

Cheney, pulling the strings? Oh, whatever gives you that idea?

/sarcasm

So, what do you think is going on? Cheney dumping everyone who doesn’t agree with striking Iran? Just dumping them because he’s a mean SOB? What’s his motivation?
But, it’s ticking me off that Addington is untouched by any scandal.

Bush has got six months to get the White House ship shape and to begin his longshot manuever to escape the title “Worst President in the History of the Republic”.

Gonzo was about to eat up several of those months- goodbye Gonzo…

Bush wants to appear to be sane for the balance of his reign.

Renee in Ohio @ 194

Little Boots–Bush? I hadn’t heard that one before. Does it have a history?

It’s the literal meaning of the Roman Emperor Caligula’s name.

One of my personal favs.

dakine01 @ 110

anne @ 70

caller on c-span, who voted for Bush in 2000 and 2004 and was a Republican – says Bush is no Republican and that AG leaving is a “breath of fresh air” – hopes more will follow including Bush.

Except that’s the meme that they’ll use as an excuse “Bush is no Republican.”

Well, pardon the f*ck outta me but that dog don’t hunt at ALL. He was elected twice to the Presidency and twice as Governor of Texas under the Republican Party ballot line. And I doubt if that caller was disavowing him during those elections. So to try to claim now that he’s not a Republican is just so much bullsh*t and has to be called for what it is.

I think the appropriate judo for that is “if you people were stupid enough to elect a guy President who ‘wasn’t a real Republican’ (twice!) and it took you six years to figure it out, why should anyone trust any candidate you choose? If you’re that easily fooled, who knows what a ‘non-Republican’ whacko your next choice will turn out to be!”

landofthefree @ 164:

reminder: whoever gets the ZED should post a note in the previous thread to look upstairs for a new thread!

My apologies. I will remember to do that from now on…*g*

Oklahoma kiddo @ 113

mui @ 89

Umm that was back when the Repugs had the majority. And everyone was still in Chimpy’s thrall.

I realize that, but as it stands right now I’m not very proud of my party (Dems). Neither apparently are a majority of Americans. ;0)

Hear ya. But always gotta look on the positive side, even while we’re trying to give themn the proverbial kick in the ass.

pseudonymous in nc @ 186

bmaz @ 165

Hey, I am down with that. sounds a little complex for the MSM though…

I don’t think it’s a complex narrative, especially when you’ve got giant talking heads who have a fetish on 50s-style buttoned-up men.

Leahy shrugs and says, ‘you know, Jim Comey impressed us when he testified’. Tweety asks a GOPper gobshite why Comey isn’t on the shortlist. GOPper says ‘well, the Democrats like him’. It brings the hackishness of the expected nominee into focus.

And Little Boots was a petulant child today, wasn’t he?

Um, YEAH!

I’d say that Bu$hCo is now up against the American Bar Association. Mwhwhwhahahahahahah…

http://www.abanet.org/

Here’s Mimikatz on Gonzales has Resigned

anne @ 179

rwcole @ 156

I don’t put any stock in faux anger- Clusterfuck may be covering up the fact that he MADE Gonzo go away- he wouldn’t want this to ruin his reputation for mindless stubborness in the face of reason.

I don’t think Bush is that smart.

I think he was annoyed – AG is his friend – I think even moreso than Rove. Rove was a groupie – a valuable one – but a groupie who fawned over George and his ‘coolness’. Fredo was more like a little brother to pal around with.

Sorry, but Fredo is slightly too brown for Bush to pal around with…he was the help cleansing records and plotting moves.

nowwwwwww will impeachment hearings begin?? cuz we know chimpy’s not gonna resign….and drag dark vader with him…. what? i can dream ok

Eureka Springs @ 123

Will Alberto be staying at the Harriett Meyers safe house?

Remember the Hague!

The Hague has no jurisdiction over American officials. The USA has not signed any treaty giving them jurisdiction over us and the last I read the Constitution is still the Supreme Law of the Land.

“How’s your memory?” really should be a part of the AG confirmation hearing for whatever toad replaces Abu.

*g*

I still can’t believe in all this time that junior hasn’t ‘lost it’ & had a very revealing tantrum during a presser. I think his temper self-control is extremely low & probably the reason his presser today was so short.

anne @ 200

Renee in Ohio @ 194

Little Boots–Bush? I hadn’t heard that one before. Does it have a history?

It’s the literal meaning of the Roman Emperor Caligula’s name.

One of my personal favs.

Yup. I also like President Inigo Montoya.

Here’s a pic of said boots;

http://courtingdisaster.blogspot.com/Bush_Doll.jpg

Whatever you think about Rahm, I love his comment about Abu’s resignation:

“Alberto Gonzales is the first Attorney General who thought the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth were three different things.”

Am I the only one that, every time I read the phrase “pleasure of the President,” throws up a little in her mouth?

-S

JGabriel @ 33

BigMitch @ 12

Breaking news: Barney the Dog resignes also.

More Breaking News: Laura Bush Requests Divorce. Plans to move to New York City.

Says, “I just could not stand the prospect of moving back to Texas. God, I hate that place. No more fucking brush.”

My guess is that Bush won’t see any need for the continued Reagan act. I don’t think he knew what a chainsaw as until Rove supplied in about 1999, with the “ranch”. I think Crawford will lose it’s celebrity within 6 months after he leaves the White House.

I just caught part of the Bush statement on AGAG, what a crybaby George is! I guess he doesn’t need Abo to protect KKKarl now.

Badwater @ 162

rwcole @ 154

I don’t put any stock in faux anger- Clusterfuck may be covering up the fact that he MADE Gonzo go away- he wouldn’t want this to ruin his reputation for mindless stubborness in the face of reason.

Taking time away from the brush harvest would make any brush rancher angry.

must stop laughing out loud at work.

ironranger @ 208

I still can’t believe in all this time that junior hasn’t ‘lost it’ & had a very revealing tantrum during a presser. I think his temper self-control is extremely low & probably the reason his presser today was so short.

bingo.

Inigo Montoya.

Isn’t that a Police album?

pma @ 210
My guess is that Bush won’t see any need for the continued Reagan act. I don’t think he knew what a chainsaw as until Rove supplied in about 1999, with the “ranch”. I think Crawford will lose it’s celebrity within 6 months after he leaves the White House.
That is exactly correct.

Adie said:

landofthefree – HI!

I doubt more than a few are able to keep up today.

I’m just surprised and pleased the hamsters are in such good form. Whew!

I tried to keep track of pressers & this too, & nearly lost both, puff puff.

Hey – I left you a message re: your sonny on last thread. I didn’t catch your response to me the other day until long after you’d gone. I wish him good luck! Pulcinella isn’t that bad in the orchestra (it’s harder on an audition, IMO). Tombeau is what it is – steady nerves and the right reed are the key. The high parts are the scary ones for me, not the other technical or chops issues. I haven’t performed 1st on it in a concert (except one of the good WWQ versions), but I imagine it’s easier in concert than in an audition, too.

EDIT: to add Adie’s name, which I seemed to accidentally cut out.

Raven @ 219 – you teh funny!

Other Pat @ 216

Badwater @ 162

Taking time away from the brush harvest would make any brush rancher angry.

must stop laughing out loud at work.

Sometimes it takes all day to herd a bunch a brush!

Clusterfuck’s gonna buy a big fuckin house in Highland Park and he’ll never set foot on the Crawford Pigfarm again..He ain’t no country boy. He ain’t no “NASCAR dad”. He ain’t no churchgoin methodist elder.

He ain’t nothin that he’s been pretendin ta be.

BigMitch @ 12

Breaking news: Barney the Dog resigns also.

Wants to spend more time with Michael Vick.

Oklahoma kiddo @ 167

I would imagine that like Rove, Mr. Gonzales will be working to elect Republicans in 2008. It’s perhaps very much in his interests, as it is in Roves ‘case’, to do so.

Sure, it’s in his interest, but what can he actually do? He’s not much of a political operative — there can’t be that many candidates with DUI arrests to be covered up. His main skill is bald-faced lying, but he’s so radioactive that no campaign is going to make him a public face. And for the same reason, I can’t see him being much of fundraising draw.

rwcole @ 197

Bush has got six months to get the White House ship shape and to begin his longshot manuever to escape the title “Worst President in the History of the Republic”.

Gonzo was about to eat up several of those months- goodbye Gonzo…

Bush wants to appear to be sane for the balance of his reign.

Bwahahaha! Toooo late! (only Bowie station to station vid I could find.)

From Andrew Cohen in the WaPo:

Good Riddance

When historians look back upon the disastrous tenure of Alberto R. Gonzales as Attorney General of the United States they will ask not only why he merited the job in the first place but why he lasted in it as long as he did. By any reasonable standard, the Gonzales Era at the Justice Department is void of almost all redemptive qualities. He brought shame and disgrace to the Department because of his lack of independent judgment on some of the most vital legal issues of our time. And he brought chaos and confusion to the department because of his lack of respectable leadership over a cabinet-level department among the most important in the nation.

…

vick has found jesus…soo gonzo will find jesus too?

Frank Probst @ 101

Random thoughts:

1. The only person who could knife both Rove and Gonzo in the back is Cheney, and we haven’t seen much of him lately. If Addington gets the nom for next AG, I’d say this was all a Cheney operation.

1a. There’s no way in hell Addington would survive confirmation hearings. He just doesn’t know when to stop talking. He was one of the most devastating witnesses against Libby at trial.

2. Before folks even start talking about the Hatch Act, let me nip that idea in the bud and say that there’s no way in hell that he’s resigning over Hatch Act violations. Ditto for Rove. All of the Hatch Act violations can be spun as “inappropriate PowerPoint presentations”, and there’s no simple counter-spin. John Q Public wouldn’t care about something like this.

3. The one big thing out there that links Gonzo and Rove is Sealed v Sealed. Can anyone with PACER access confirm that that case is still pending?

if its accessible by PACER, I can get it. will give it a try.

Condi Rice is most certainly serving at “the pleasure of the president”…*g*

Condi at Arthur Sulzberger Jr.’s cocktail party in DC: “As I was telling my hus…” meaning Bush. The word “husband” almost came out. Supposedly, jaws dropped.

Adie@214:
His longer public appearances are obviously scripted down to the smallest detail. When it’s an in & out thing, then I actually watch, just in case he slips. I can only imagine that his minders are sweating profusely until he is done.

From Josh Marshall and TPM:

Judged by the standards of our history, a recess appointment to replace Alberto Gonzales sounds like an incredible proposition. But don’t be so sure. Just as we saw with the ‘pardon scooter’ movement, the word seems already to have gone out to the folks on the right to start preparing the ground for just such a move by the president. I’ve already heard a few just this morning saying it would be the right thing for the president to do. Watch for it.
link

Redshift @ 225

Oklahoma kiddo @ 167

I would imagine that like Rove, Mr. Gonzales will be working to elect Republicans in 2008. It’s perhaps very much in his interests, as it is in Roves ‘case’, to do so.

Sure, it’s in his interest, but what can he actually do? He’s not much of a political operative — there can’t be that many candidates with DUI arrests to be covered up. His main skill is bald-faced lying, but he’s so radioactive that no campaign is going to make him a public face. And for the same reason, I can’t see him being much of fundraising draw.

for the Republicans, I think he could raise some money for the Dems…

Gonzo will join a law firm representing big money clients that have business with the White House.

Turley just described Bush admin groupthink to “Baathist party loyalty”.

Meeeeooooow. love it.

james @ 207

anne @ 179

I don’t think Bush is that smart.

I think he was annoyed – AG is his friend – I think even moreso than Rove. Rove was a groupie – a valuable one – but a groupie who fawned over George and his ‘coolness’. Fredo was more like a little brother to pal around with.

Sorry, but Fredo is slightly too brown for Bush to pal around with…he was the help cleansing records and plotting moves.

Bush has a “brown” sister-in-law. Charges of rascism need to be fully documented, and true. Bush is indifferent to the plight of unfortunate people regardless of their color. It is a fact of American life, that people of color are over-represented among the unfortunate in our society.

I’m betting on Cornyn to replace AGAG

-um- rwcole.

who said anything about “faux” anger?

the brat’s about too blow sky-high, doncha think?

i’m guessin’ all the mommas in this crowd recognize the symptoms all too well.

grownup? sadly, no. just bigger & more dangerous.

zennurse @ 234

Turley just described Bush admin groupthink to “Baathist party loyalty”.

Meeeeooooow. love it.

I always refer to it now as The Bu’ush Party.

I see no evidence that Bush is a rascist. Frankly I doubt that he is. Just because a man has a hundred faults doesn’t mean that he has all possible faults.

wtf @ 112

“I’m sure one of the goals of all these resignations”

ha ha ha

resignations?

no freaking way

they were asked to leave so they left

nobody in that crowd takes independent action

that should be one of the questions to break the frame: you say you resigned but when did the preznit ask you to leave

so true. and someone seemed a tad upset about it, like it wasn’t his decision.

I’d like to see the MSM’s investigation paperwork on Gonzales. *crickets*

They basically ignored thestory andnever did an investigation. How can they claim Abu did nothing wrong. As far as him serving at the pleasure of the president, that is just a talking point and not law.

Interesting to me that there’s no chatter about Iraq at FDL today because of the Abu resignation (distraction?).

TiredFed @ 226

Frank Probst @ 101

Random thoughts:

1. The only person who could knife both Rove and Gonzo in the back is Cheney, and we haven’t seen much of him lately. If Addington gets the nom for next AG, I’d say this was all a Cheney operation.

3. The one big thing out there that links Gonzo and Rove is Sealed v Sealed. Can anyone with PACER access confirm that that case is still pending?

if its accessible by PACER, I can get it. will give it a try.

Could one of you remind about Sealed vs Sealed? I’m not connecting here.

Thanks.

TeddySanFran @ 237

I’m betting on Cornyn to replace AGAG

interesting…
who replaces Cornyn, any ideas?

rwcole @ 235

I see no evidence that Bush is a rascist. Frankly I doubt that he is. Just because a man has a hundred faults doesn’t mean that he has all possible faults.

not a racist…not a man…just a puppet.

I woke up this morning…

Guess what…

It was a better day….

Adios Gonzales!….

rwcole @ 240

I see no evidence that Bush is a rascist. Frankly I doubt that he is. Just because a man has a hundred faults doesn’t mean that he has all possible faults.

I for one am not willing to believe that he let NOLA drown without knowing what that meant.

newtonusr @ 248

rwcole @ 240

I see no evidence that Bush is a rascist. Frankly I doubt that he is. Just because a man has a hundred faults doesn’t mean that he has all possible faults.

I for one am not willing to believe that he let NOLA drown without knowing what what that meant.

If it was Palm Beach under water, he wouldn’t have let them drown.

Steve-AR @ 230

From Josh Marshall and TPM:

Judged by the standards of our history, a recess appointment to replace Alberto Gonzales sounds like an incredible proposition. But don’t be so sure. Just as we saw with the ‘pardon scooter’ movement, the word seems already to have gone out to the folks on the right to start preparing the ground for just such a move by the president. I’ve already heard a few just this morning saying it would be the right thing for the president to do. Watch for it.
link

Although Bush said Clement would be Acting AG until a new AG is Senate confirmed…it is strange that they are already saying that Clay Johnson will replace Chertoff, and Chertoff’s name was the number one leak. It is not likely at this point that Chertoff would be easily confirmed, and if Bush doesn’t recess appoint him now, he could end up out of a job. So, I agree, look for recess appointment – Chertoff.

Elliott @ 245

TeddySanFran @ 237

I’m betting on Cornyn to replace AGAG

interesting…
who replaces Cornyn, any ideas?

Hopefully someone less tiresome in committees.

I don’t believe that raising money is a big problem for the GOP.

How about everyone tell their representative to publicly suggest Fitzgerald as the replacement?

One quick tea leaf — GW Bush to be in Seattle area today — fundraising at a hotel. (The ignominy!) Perhaps firing Washington State’s USAG John McKay did not enhance Bush/Cheney’s ability to find a sponsor willing to host fundraiser at any of the swank homes in Dave Reichert’s district…?

I note with interest that Mr. William Neukom, incoming chair of the ABA, has made some interesting comments on the relationships between a healthy system of justice, a civil society, and a prosperous economy. IIRC, Mr. Neukom is from the same general area in which Mr. John McKay was fired

Here’s hoping the Senate Dems explore some of those relationships in their questions of an incoming AG during Senate nomination hearings. Perhaps they could turn these hearings into a ‘teaching moment’ on the relationships between a functioning justice system, and economic prosperity.

http://www.abanet.org/

Hoping to be online for Darcy Burner’s fundraiser later today.

juslin @ 226

vick has found jesus…soo gonzo will find jesus too?

He’s probably already found him, and has him in Guantanamo…

OT-
Lance Armstrong presidential forum on MSNBC now. Either they’re interviewing only one at a time, or Edwards is the only one to show.

LS @ 250

Steve-AR @ 230

From Josh Marshall and TPM:

Judged by the standards of our history, a recess appointment to replace Alberto Gonzales sounds like an incredible proposition. But don’t be so sure. Just as we saw with the ‘pardon scooter’ movement, the word seems already to have gone out to the folks on the right to start preparing the ground for just such a move by the president. I’ve already heard a few just this morning saying it would be the right thing for the president to do. Watch for it.
link

Although Bush said Clement would be Acting AG until a new AG is Senate confirmed…it is strange that they are already saying that Clay Johnson will replace Chertoff, and Chertoff’s name was the number one leak. It is not likely at this point that Chertoff would be easily confirmed, and if Bush doesn’t recess appoint him now, he could end up out of a job. So, I agree, look for recess appointment – Chertoff.

Who would be in charge of Heimat Security?

zennurse @ 213

Whatever you think about Rahm, I love his comment about Abu’s resignation:

“Alberto Gonzales is the first Attorney General who thought the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth were three different things.”

Oh my, that is good. ROFLOL

yellowdogD @ 256

OT-
Lance Armstrong presidential forum on MSNBC now. Either they’re interviewing only one at a time, or Edwards is the only one to show.

I saw Hillary earlier.

zennurse @ 212

Whatever you think about Rahm, I love his comment about Abu’s resignation:

“Alberto Gonzales is the first Attorney General who thought the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth were three different things.”

I love it!

3. The one big thing out there that links Gonzo and Rove is Sealed v Sealed. Can anyone with PACER access confirm that that case is still pending?

Don’t forget that there has never been any evidence whatsoever that Sealed v. Sealed has anything to do with anyone currently or formerly in the Bush administration. The only reason it was mentioned was because there was a hearing on this case that happened to occur before Judge Walton during the same timeframe as the Libby trial (and likely other trials/issues before Judge Walton, too).

I hope you all have a good day – time for me to do some work! Cheers!

PB (peanut butter) @ 260

zennurse @ 212

… Rahm… about Abu’s resignation:

“Alberto Gonzales is the first Attorney General who thought the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth were three different things.”

I love it!

I’d say that’s a triple outta the ballpark ;-)

I think the president is getting a little too much “pleasure” out of this “service” ….

Just sayin’ …

You can’t say Bush is not a uniter. He has united almost his whole administration to spend more time with their families.

Perhaps Mr. Gonzales will end up in a Republican ‘think’ tank. One way or another he will be helping to elect Republicans in 2008.

Elliott @ 242

TeddySanFran @ 237

I’m betting on Cornyn to replace AGAG

interesting…
who replaces Cornyn, any ideas?

One of Gov Goodhair’s cronies most likely.

Malveaux saying Chertoff…

http://thinkprogress.org/2007/…..hnson-dhs/

Redshift @ 224

Oklahoma kiddo @ 167

I would imagine that like Rove, Mr. Gonzales will be working to elect Republicans in 2008. It’s perhaps very much in his interests, as it is in Roves ‘case’, to do so.

Sure, it’s in his interest, but what can he actually do? He’s not much of a political operative — there can’t be that many candidates with DUI arrests to be covered up….

Even with Dick and George off the road, there’s still quite a few drunk Pugs on the road.

Plus, once you add in all the prostitution, child molesting, gay closets, offering men $20 for a blow job in public restrooms, and shooting people in the face, well, pretty soon you’re talking a lot of covering up to do.

ccmask @ 247

newtonusr @ 248

I for one am not willing to believe that he let NOLA drown without knowing what what that meant.

If it was Palm Beach under water, he wouldn’t have let them drown.

Yeah, but if it was San Francisco, he would have. He doesn’t care about anyone but himself (and by extension, people who can do things for him, politically or otherwise.) Have you seen this post from Digby?

mui @ 248

Elliott @ 245

interesting…
who replaces Cornyn, any ideas?

Hopefully someone less tiresome in committees.

“A Reenactment of a Typical Cornyn Committee Grilling of a Bush Nominee”

CORNYN: Do you like ice cream?

BUSH NOMINEE: Yes, I do.

CORNYN: I like ice cream too. Which do you prefer, chocolate or vanilla?

BUSH NOMINEE: Uh, uhm . . . chocolate.

CORNYN: I thank you for you candor.

Oh, I forgot to mention: choking your mistress.

Bush, Condi, and Suzanne Malveaux…

PB (peanut butter) @ 260

zennurse @ 212

Whatever you think about Rahm, I love his comment about Abu’s resignation:

“Alberto Gonzales is the first Attorney General who thought the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth were three different things.”

I love it!

Has anybody managed to find out what Emmanuel did with his summer break?

I’m wondering if Gonzo actually did quit (who wouldn’t have gotten sick of being between that rock and hard place?)… and chimpy is really pissed at Abu because he’s now in a lurch…

I don’t know – just thinking out loud.

They generally announce stuff like this right before an indictment or a subpoena.

JGabriel @ 269

Plus, once you add in all the prostitution, child molesting, gay closets, offering men $20 for a blow job in public restrooms, and shooting people in the face, well, pretty soon you’re talking a lot of covering up to do.

Whoever said ChimpCo didn’t represent a wide swath of America was fooling themselves.

some of Clay Johnson’s qualifications

As long as Bush’s assistant, Karen Keller, says the president is free, Johnson is one of a half dozen administration officials who can see the president without a scheduled appointment. He is probably the only person to have spanked Barney, a Scottish terrier and the presidential dog.

“Barney was on the oval carpet making a nuisance of himself,” Johnson told me. “So I spanked him and told him, ‘No!’ and I put him on the sofa with me. I think that’s the only time he’s been spanked.”

Ain’t it great that a guy who has spent 13 whole years in public service called the Geneva Convention obsolete and quaint. Golly…..with all that experience no wonder everyone feels that the country is being run by a bunch of juvenile delinquents. While Gonzo has been “living the American dream”, the rest of the country has been living the American nightmare.

So how will this affect the various Congressional investigations, the subpoenas, the likelihood of contempt citations?

Will this energize Democrats in the September Iraq war debate?

Will it help them undo the FISA sellout?

OldCoastie @ 270

I’m wondering if Gonzo actually did quit (who wouldn’t have gotten sick of being between that rock and hard place?)… and chimpy is really pissed at Abu because he’s now in a lurch…

I don’t know – just thinking out loud.

You’re assuming that the chimp has awareness of the situation….not so sure about that.

From a diary by Larry Johnson in 2005:

When Bush was elected governor of Texas in 1994, he put the buddy he calls “Big Man” — Johnson is six feet four — in charge of all state appointments. Johnson, a former executive at Neiman Marcus and Frito-Lay, refers to Americans as “customers” and is partial to Chamber of Commerce bromides such as “We’re in the results business.”
He is also partial to giving corporate lobbyists a direct role in gutting regulatory protections.

One of his first acts in Texas was to remove all three members of the state environmental-protection commission and replace them with a former Monsanto executive, an official with the Texas Beef Council and a lawyer for the oil industry.

LS @ 268

Malveaux saying Chertoff…

http://thinkprogress.org/2007/…..hnson-dhs/

Malveaux can replace Chertoff as reward for propagandizing away on Pelosi’s trip to Syria.

I’ll bet a buck that this is a farce.. The handlers told Chimparooza that Gonzo had ta go- then they told Gonzo ta resign- then Chimpers gave his pissed off press conference.. It was obvious to everyone that the little fucker had to go. This is a show folks- a fuckin bit of political theatre!

LS @ 250

Steve-AR @ 230

From Josh Marshall and TPM:

Judged by the standards of our history, a recess appointment to replace Alberto Gonzales sounds like an incredible proposition. But don’t be so sure. Just as we saw with the ‘pardon scooter’ movement, the word seems already to have gone out to the folks on the right to start preparing the ground for just such a move by the president. I’ve already heard a few just this morning saying it would be the right thing for the president to do. Watch for it.
link

Although Bush said Clement would be Acting AG until a new AG is Senate confirmed…it is strange that they are already saying that Clay Johnson will replace Chertoff, and Chertoff’s name was the number one leak. It is not likely at this point that Chertoff would be easily confirmed, and if Bush doesn’t recess appoint him now, he could end up out of a job. So, I agree, look for recess appointment – Chertoff.

I disagree.

For what it is worth, my opinion is that Chertoff would be an easy confirmation. I may be wrong, but I will bet dollars to doughnuts that Bush thinks I am right. He has promised a Senate confirmation hearing, and I’m believing that he doesn’t have the political strength to go back on this promise.

Again, I question why he made this promise. One reason is that he figures that Chertoff is an easy sell. (I agree.) Another reason is that he got something in return, but I can only guess what that is. My surmise is that he got a promise regarding the outstanding subpoenas agaisnt Harriet Meiers and others. No direct contempt? Maybe, but it would not surprise me to hear that Bush calculated that the Dems don’t have the moxie for direct contempt anyway.

Jane’s upstairs…

Bummer. I just remembered that Froomkin is off this week as well as Jon Stewart so we’ll just have to wait.

At least KO should be around tonight.

Bustednuckles @ 192

Hugh @ 180

A question: Paul Clement was one of the few people, LEFT at the DOJ who didn’t have to recuse himself from the various investigations. Will shifting him to Acting AG create a conflict of interest and leave him unable to deliver opinions on Abu’s previous activities?

I mistakenly thought Iglesias had something to do with Clement and went googling. Here is what I found from WaPo June 27th:

Four Senate Democrats yesterday wrote to Solicitor General Paul Clement asking him, as acting attorney general because Gonzales has recused himself from decisions related to this investigation, to appoint an outside prosecutor similar to the prosecution of I. Lewis “Scooter” Libby by Patrick J. Fitzgerald. The senators believe Gonzales’s testimony this week, and in prior appearances, constituted perjury and should be prosecuted. But they want it done by someone from outside of main Justice to avoid the inherent conflicts of interest. For now such recommendations from Democrats probably carry little weight. Sen. Charles Schumer (D-N.Y.) was the first lawmaker to call for a special counsel in the Libby-CIA leak probe, but it took more than five months before Fitzgerald was appointed . So this where the IG-OPR report could be critical. Should the IG-OPR probe say laws were likely broken, it may be impossible for the White House and Justice Department to avoid appointing a special prosecutor to examine the case. It’s unknown how long it will take for the internal Justice investigation to be completed.

landofthefree @ 218

Adie said:

landofthefree – HI!

I doubt more than a few are able to keep up today.

I’m just surprised and pleased the hamsters are in such good form. Whew!

I tried to keep track of pressers & this too, & nearly lost both, puff puff.

Hey – I left you a message

Thanks. I did check back, but it was way to late to comment… We’re bizzy tw’ garden, overrun with hummingbirds demanding daily fillups of feeders(!), painting walls (ick – not my favorite activity, yadda yadda…

Oh, feel restassured, sonny’s not intimidated by the Tombeau or the Pulcinella, & those are in performance w/ group & conductor he enjoys immensely. It just happened, thru staff changes & pieces-parts of concert program being wrenched around, that both are back to back in 2nd half of program. I’d never heard of that being done before. A bit of an endurance tester, but he’s as well-schooled as he’ll ever get, at prep. We never worry any more when he’s playing – but we do swoon a bit, shameless fools that we are. ;->
He’s delighted at chance to play those pieces. But his mom thinks that oughtta earn soloist pay, eh?

the rest, i can’t talk about. If anything momentous happens this year, though, all my promises are out the window, and you’ll hear me loud & clear! *blush*

new post upstairs.

broadsword @ 274

They generally announce stuff like this right before an indictment or a subpoena.

Yeah, we definitely need to be keeping an eye on the rest of the news this week.

One aspect I’m pretty sure of — the resignation is effective Sept. 17, so they’ll be pushing hard to put off the investigations until after that, so as not to distract from the PR push on Iraq.

PTrig @ 271

“A Reenactment of a Typical Cornyn Committee Grilling of a Bush Nominee”

CORNYN: Do you like ice cream?

BUSH NOMINEE: Yes, I do.

CORNYN: I like ice cream too. Which do you prefer, chocolate or vanilla?

BUSH NOMINEE: Uh, uhm . . . chocolate.

CORNYN: I thank you for you candor.

Usually he adds a patronizing note if it’s one of the 30-somethings. Like, Thank you for your candor, (son.)

Wonder who Rove is advising Bush to appoint.

New thread upstairs.

Perhaps they’ll leave it open for a bit and just let the acting AG continue.

mui @ 292

PTrig @ 271

“A Reenactment of a Typical Cornyn Committee Grilling of a Bush Nominee”

CORNYN: Do you like ice cream?

. . .

CORNYN: I thank you for you candor.

Usually he adds a patronizing note if it’s one of the 30-somethings. Like, Thank you for your candor, (son.)

rofl, so true.

@ 209

the last I read the Constitution is still the Supreme Law of the Land

except for removing most of rights named in the Bill of Rights, asserting that Congress and the courts are not co-equal with the executive, and that the vice-preznit is/is not part of the executive (depending on the day of the week and the phase of the moon).

I often wonder how folks like Abu, Rove, or Delay and others—personally defend themselves in private when their lies and obfuscations are so painfully obvious. What kind of conversations do they have with their wives, their siblings? With Abu and his “I don’t recall” testimony, I can’t believe that there is not someone in his private life who has said,”Abu, this just doesn’t make sense, are you sure you’re in the right here?’ And it has always astounded me that, knowing what Karl has done in the name of getting folks elected, he has a wife at all. When I think of Rove and his children, I think of Draco Malfoy in Harry Potter, Draco and his father are the nasty boy and his nasty dad at school.

I know –I am an idealistic Pollyanna, and sheltered here in my Bluest of Blue states. It just astounds me that there are folks that delusional walking around without ankle bracelets or keepers.

George gets testy any time it is proven, despite what his mother told him, that the country is not his to play with.

1,580 DAYZ AND THE KILLIN’ GOEZ ON AND ON AND..

Citizen Hamsher and the Firepup Patriots:

This is a great day for progressives and confirmation hearings provide an open window for democracy to come rushing into everyliveingroom in the country. This was EPU’d last thread so I’ll give ya the short version:

There has been a titanic battle goin on in the oligarchy between Bush-oil-western fascists and the establishment pro-Clinton Yankee bankin’ factions. The axis of evil in the Yankee faction is the Murdock-Rockefeller institutions.

The Gonzales resignation signals a victory for the Yankees and the orders have gone out to the foot soldiers to cut the loses, purge the Bush faction from the Republican front and throw in behind Mrs. Clinton to provide smooth transition in 2008.

There will NOT be a Comey nomination unless the Democratic leadership has been told to shut the fuck up with continued investigations as a quid pro quo. Senator L***derman will stay in the Senate and Mrs. Clinton will rehabilitate him in the Democratic leadership if she is elected.

If Mrs. Clinton is elected President Steny Hoyer will be the next Speaker of the House, Rahm Emmanuel will be floor leader and Joe L**derman will take Durbin’s spot in the Senate leadership.

The fix is in folks, go back and look at the private meetings in the Whitehouse over the last four weeks between the fascists and senate Democratic leaders.

We ken still derail this fascist effort to resume respectability but it requires some balls in the Democratic Party and direct action from us folks out here in the trenches.

KEEP THE FAITH AND REMEBER YOU DON’T NEGOTIATE WITH FASCISTS!!!

sunshine @ 118

Fox news had it right, Paul Clement to be acting AG. He sounds like some one who wouldn’t be confirmed.

When tree limbs fall they are usually picked up put in a pile to be burned, ground up, or saved for a future use.
Maybe the fallen limbs have another project to do? What will he do when he leaves??

As Acting AG he doesn’t have to be confirmed. But given the fact that he would have to face “awkward” questions in hearings he likely wouldn’t be nominated.

But that’s generally a problem for any of Bush’s “preferred” prospects. Either they have prior baggage, or served in a position that might reveal too much dirt during questioning. The situation is not at all desirable for Bush…since stone-walling to the Judiciary Committee isn’t likely to win the confirmation.

landofthefree

In case you return here, I looked up the Chicago opening and, no, he won’t be going for it, since it’s e.h. also. Can do in a pinch, but prefers not.

Oh DO try for it. The only way you know you won’t get it if you don’t try, ahem. Don’t make me come in there!

- just kidding. No, I’m not yer hystereotypical stagemommydearest, last time i looked. ;->

Adie @ 100

OldCoastie @ 87

“his good name was dragged through the mud for political reasons” – the shrub…

yikes!

Listen to the tape. Big pause before saying “mud” – choking on it?

Look at the video: he was thinking ’shit’, and was about to say it.

So much for ’serving at the pleasure of the President.’

Wasn’t that what Monica was doing?

Mod note: New around here?

carmen @ 91

“A talented and honorable person is impeded in doing good work and his good name is dragged through the mud for political reasons.” Yuck.

We didn’t smear him for political purposes the way Republicans treated the Clintons.

No, we disclosed to the public all the criminal behavior we could find and it was Gonzales who smeared himself with muck by lying and saying “I don’t recall” repeatedly.

That we gain politically is hiz own damn fault.

wtf @ 153

moeman @ 142

Obama Statement on the Resignation of Alberto Gonzales
Washington DC | August 27, 2007 …

strong move, obama — get out in front and throw down …

I agree with his words. I just wonder why Obama has to take 100 words to say the same thing as Edwards can in 3 or 4 words. Has Obama taken speaking lessons from John Kerry?

John Edwards: “Better late than never.”

carolyn urban @ 187

3. The one big thing out there that links Gonzo and Rove is Sealed v Sealed. Can anyone with PACER access confirm that that case is still pending?

You’re talking Fitz here, right?

The next step should be an indictment of the Plame 4: Libby, Rove, Fleischman and Armitage, for disclosing the classified job title and work of Valerie Plame.

This would build the public case for impeaching V.P. Dick Cheney.

anne @ 200

Renee in Ohio @ 194

Little Boots–Bush? I hadn’t heard that one before. Does it have a history?

It’s the literal meaning of the Roman Emperor Caligula’s name.

Bush – worst dictator since Caligula!

IMPEACH