There is no doubt that the allegations against Gov. Rod Blagojevich are alarming and identify some brazen activities on his part. The allegations cast a pall of negativity over the state’s image, especially coming after the immediate past governor w
There is no doubt that the allegations against Gov. Rod Blagojevich are alarming and identify some brazen activities on his part. The allegations cast a pall of negativity over the state’s image, especially coming after the immediate past governor was convicted of malfeasance similar to Blagojevich’s accusations.
To invoke a pay-to-play practice in the state’s business practice is not only deplorable and downright shameful, it hurts the worthy businesses denied an opportunity to fairly compete for contracts with the state, which could help the businesses’ bottom line and, thus, the Illinois residents they employ.
Selling a coveted Senate seat for any kind of gain–personal or political–as Blagojevich is charged with doing, is beyond comprehension, counterproductive to the citizens of this state and an injustice to the worthy, competent and accomplished candidates who may be interested in the post.
Undoubtedly, the dubious–and criminal–acts that the governor is said to be on wiretaps discussing, plotting and high-fiving is an audacious affront to moral and political decency, and an assault on the people and the state the governor swore to lead.
However, it must be noted and respected that the allegations are simply that–allegations.
It is how our country metes out justice: presumed innocent until proven guilty.
And for the salivating politicians who are trying to mask their self-servitude with clarion calls for the governor to be stripped of his power and for him to resign immediately, we hope the recent decisions by members of our justice system and law enforcement will serve as a reminder that the charges against the governor are charges.
All arrows point to “slow down.” The governor threw up a timeout signal after the government, local and national politics and the media converged on this arrest.
The state needs a timeout now. Like it or not, Blagojevich is under the presumption of innocence until the government proves its case. In the meantime, since he is still in leadership, he needs to be able to govern. State bills need to be paid. The state budget needs to be balanced. Childcare providers, social service agencies and other state vendors need to be paid, and the state’s roadways need to be cleared of the next snowstorm. Those are immediate, short-term obligations that need to be taken care of.
If the governor won’t resign, the state Supreme Court won’t make him. The state Constitution allows him to stay in office, for now, and the impeachment panel’s hands are likely tied. There is no money for a special election, even though it seems to be what most Illinois citizens want, so it is time to slow down, regroup, refocus. Political posturing is a disservice to the people of Illinois.
Copyright 2008 Chicago Defender. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
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