CNN

I'm from Illinois and Blago and Obama don't get along. That's a known fact. By the way, Obama WON the presidential race b/c there were a whole lot of us who were willing to participate in the political process, donate OUR money and vote for HIM. Period! It's just that simple.

Wow ! facts..oops not facts... Obama 2012 is coming and he is going to win 2nd term. The governor has no bearing on on him whatesover it is an unfortunate event in chicago !

Who is more coruupt than your sitting president? At least the Govenor of Illinois is not responsible for killing thousands of innocent lives!

What difference does it make who Obama had ties with? He hasn't been guilty of breaking any laws. You people are sick! If the Governor wanted to sell his seat, does that make Obama responsible for his actions.
If the Feds have been investigating this man for years, I'm sure they would have a conversation between the Govenor and Obama, but there is nothing!

It appears that everyone is capitalizing on making money on Obama. Unfortunately, the Governor of Illinois, who is a public servant was busted.

U.S. Rep. Luis Gutierrez to replace Barack Obama and Caroline Kennedy for Hillary Clintons seat.

Let's see. The Mayor of Detroit goes down, Jefferson down in Louisiana gets booted and not Obama's Gov goes to jail. Man, Obama has not even been sworn in yet he's already coming out shady. typical.

I see all the Repuke sore losers are complaining again. Do all you sore losers wants a little cheese with the wine. Hahahahahahahahaha. What a bunch of crybabies.

@ You people who say Obama has shady tie...

If your relatives commit a crime does that make you SHADY!!! If it does then most the the american people ar SHADDY!!!

GIVE ME A BREAK...YOU PEOPLE ARE JUST LOOKING FOR ANYTHING TO CRITICIZE OBAMA!! GET OVER YOURSELVES...IT AIN'T GONNA HAPPEN...

Wow a lot of Obama haters out there, and he isn't even in office yet. Being from IL I can tell that Obama and Blago didn't get along. Blago really doesn't along with anyone. So for everyone to say that Obama is connected is pretty crazy. And SG what are you talking about? He didn't buy the White House. Flyer no one is brainwashed we just know what the truth is. I think the right can't get over losing. And god help us Ryan if Palin gets elected!

Ohio for Obama - does the name Rezko mean anything to you?

Appoint Oprah for the balance of the term and then have an election.

So what's the big deal? Just another of our 'great' politicians getting caught doing what most of them do. The problem is the ignorance of the American public and voting for these politicans based on what they promise and not what they have accomplished.

I don't understand all the criticism of Obama. For those of you who can't read, the crook is Governor Rod Blagojevich. They are two different people. You savvy?

It's a pity that we never got to hear any of Bush and Cheney's influence peddling conversations. This was small time in comparison to the boys who sold everything from energy policy to military logistics to disaster response. And talking about succession, every federal agency still in operation after the last 8 years is being run by an incompetent insider as a reward for either paying or pimping for political contributions. Nothing new about this process and it doesn't matter which party you're talking about. They are all crooks! And they don't even try to hide it!

If there was a hurricane that swept through Illinois some of you would find a way to blame Obama.

Find any office in any party in any state without corruption. RIght. You can't.

One Dem for one Republican(Stevenson) appears the score is even in the race for unethical behavior.

Two for Republican – add Sara Palin. How many Republicans went to jail this year and last year for unethical behavior? Too many to count.

Hey Mike, I don't have enough toes and fingers to count all the Democrats with unethical behavior. Maybe you should clean up your own party before you worry about the GOP

Shady ties? What, would you offer us McCain, who has ties to Gordon Liddy? Are we playing "six degrees" again?

Foolishness.

This story shows no connection between Obama and Blagojevich, so if you have evidence of that, bring it, otherwise drop it.

The accusation that Obama "bought" the White House should also have a basis in fact. If you have no facts to offer, don't expect to be taken seriously, or to be regarded with any respect.

@Ohio, the way you buy the whitehouse is by offering something for support. If these are the sort of politicians Obama was mingling with, not to mention Rezko, what did Obama sell in order to gain their support? What did Hillary get in order to go out and stump for him as much as she did? Who can honestly say that a woman would change her mind so quickly in one minute saying that McCain offers a lifetime of experience and her democratic primary rival had only a speech to offer, and then turn around and support that speech person to the highest office in the free world?

You CAN buy the presidency. I hope Obama didn't do it, but I cannot imagine that if Obama was around this people that some of it didn't rub off. After all, this is the political machine he came from.

Republicans and there negativity once again.
Soar loosers indeed.
What of the one in Alaska??? Is he not a Republican?????

oh Robin. Give it up. the american ppl have spoken. there's nothing you can do about that. just suck it up. you guys lose. it's time that you get a dose of reality. Lets just unite and quit complaining.

I agree with FreeNLovit,
You still have to have a personal touch to win. He touched over $600,000,000.

This guy is wierd!!!

People get a grip the election is over and the people have spoken.

So the real question is, how would everyone on here be posting if Blagojevich was a Republican?

Hey Robin quit your whinning, he is your prez, accept it or move out of the country

Flyer, Robin, Richardm:

You are all dolts. Obama had nothing to do with this guy's corruption.

There's corruption in both parties. We all know about Republican Ted Stevens.

Another example of the DARK SUIT SYNDROME. Look at worldcom. tyco, sitco, the priest, corrupt politicians, they always wear dark suits. I think the dark suite has a phycological affect on them. They feel they are God can do no harm, do as they please and are NOT accountable to anyone. The men in the board room, guess what they wear? DARK SUITS. Watch the press conferences, DARK SUITS. Should we change
the the name from DARK SUIT to POWER SUIT?

This guy needs to be impeached and impeached immediately.

And richardm ... if you took enough time to read some of the articles about all of this you would know that per the FBI Obama was not aware of anything in connection with this.

All this smoke and no fire???????????

I have a bridge to sell you if you think "That One" is innocent!

I predict PE Obama will be in jail along with his buddies before his term is over!

Here goes! McCain had Bush, Obama had Blagojovich. Who has been harder on your world lately. HMMMMMM I THINK BUSH! Look up your history about Illinois Governors. There have been more crooks than you can shake a stick at. For those Republicans out there, yes many of them were Republicans too. Get over loosing the election already. You put up a good fight. Now shut up and help this country. Oh, that's right, your party tore it down to begin with. Sorry.

Give me a break! You sore losers and bigots! Get a life and accept that we finally have a person of color in the White House! Your way of thinking reflects on your parents!!! You were not taught to be
colorblind!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Can't wait for January 20!

I wonder what all these losers will say about birth certificates then?

LOSERS!!!!!!!!!!

Was waiting to see how long it would take for someone to try an tie BO to this. I'm sure based on the wire tapping done over the course of the investigation, if BO was involved this would have been the October suprise everyone was waiting on. Besides all politicians buy their election or re-election. That's why the avg Joe the Citizen can't afford to run for a political office. If the FBI or any other law enforcement agency investigated more, I'm sure there are plenty other politicians and staff that would be arrested. Also if Congress applied the same criteria to themselves as the CEO automakers, they would probably ask themselves to resign. It all seems so hypocritical.

to be quite fair,
it is two democrats and one republican.

Flyer and SG

Politics IS a shady business, PERIOD! There is not a Democrat, Republican, Independent, etc. that is immuned from corruption. Just be glad this so-called public servant didn't get away with it. Also, until you can prove anything without a doubt about Obama's "shady ties" you would be wise to keep that kind of negativity to yourself; Obama just might prove to be worth is weight in gold. Give the man a chance!

Look leave Obama along he will be a good president everybody dont do dirty politic's ......Obama going to shape up all these bad politician's....I know Chicago is a very dirty politic's city

Ohio-for Obama
-stop your nonsense-BO is from the shady world of Daley/Chicago. Please just admitt that BO is the same old politician. And the young people posting here-as in the days of Watergate-which you weren't around for-"Follow the $$$"-that'll give the answer!

Lisa Madigan would be a great Senator prospect . She is one IL. would and could be proud of. Now if they would go after the other two ( Daley and Obama ) , IL. would finally be able to hold our heads up high.

Republicans are still idiots. FACT, federal prisons are full of republicans, remember Duke Cunningham? I guess if the Governor is dirty and your a Senator your dirty. Robin your a idiot, get back to your village.

corruption from Obama land? not possible! you all elected him President!

Ohio for Obama...

You know you can have all the money in the world, but to be Prez, you still have to add a personal touch to win votes. If it was as easy as throwing money out there, ROMNEY would have beaten McCain.

Robin & SG need to shut up. Obama didn't buy the White House, millions of Americans stood in line for hours to cast their vote for him and it is a shame you both want to discredit all of those American people who voted for Obama. President Elect Obama won the election now get over it and stop trying to blame him for other people shortcomings.

OBAMA BOUGHT THE WHITE HOUSE PLEASE. HE ISN'T EVEN IN OFFICE AND YET YOU PEOPLE ARE WIATING FOR HIS DEMISE.PATHETIC. KEEP WAITING.... YOU'LL WAIT IN VAIN.

The arrest of an unpopular governor is hardly an indication that the party is starting to come apart at the seams. Blago has been under observation for quite some time, and he knew it.

Blago, unlike Stevens, is only an accused felon.

Actually, if you were from Illinois you'd know that Blagojevich is basically isolated from the Democratic Party here. Not saying he isn't a member but he has made a lot of enemies in the State Senate and House.

This governor and Obama are tied to the same developer=Rezco or whatever his name is. But the fact is – WE DON'T CARE!!

Obama is different from the gov. So let the Gov face the law

You anti-Obamaists out there are zombies. Go ahead, let your imaginations run wild, it's ok, it's your right. It's also expected of you; it's your civic duty.

Ohio for Obama & Ryan, I agree with you. SG & Robin are both sore losers & quite frankly sound like idoits. Just get over it!!!!!!

Blago was dirty and corrupt but not as dirty and corrupt as George Bush and his ilk.

What a shame a young man, 51 yrs old, has adopted the "DARK SUITE SYNDROME" which means to me they have the power to do as they please without thinking of the consequences or how his actions could affect others, in this case his family, the office he has been trusted with, the state, and the Democratic Party. A true example of POWER CORRUPTS. Why do some people forget about integrity, honor, character, and only think of themselves without regards for others? A young man with talent, a chance to help the people in his state and all he thinks of is how he can gain monetarily ,personally using his position as governor. Why has GREED taken over so many people in power? I'd love to know. Please someone help me to understand. Could it be " SO GOES THE WHITE HOUSE SO GOES THE NATION". All elected officials HAVE to set better examples, it's not about them it's about the people they serve.

Blago needs to be impeached immediately!! STOP THE MADNESS! Illinois deserves better than to let someone so corrupt pick who one of our Senators will be.

What are talking about sg when you say Obama bought white house how can anyone buy white house, you sound like a nut.

Can anything good come out of Chicago?

Ministers (Wright, Jackson), Governors (three democrat Governors and one republican Governor), some of the candidates to replace Obama (some had appearently agreed to pay), union "leaders" willing to play along, all unneeded in a civil society. When will Obama call for reforms in his home state?

To be fair, Tennessee also had a governor (democrat Blanton) go to prison for corruption.

For decades we've heard of the Illinois/Chicago political machine–now we have another bust to add to the wall of shame–next to the others.

This is nothing new–and nothing we couldn't have anticipated.

Let's hope the President Elect can rise above this–and that the people of Chicago get to elect their own Senator rather than have this corrupt politician pick the replacement.

SG, Robin and Flyer
Educate yourselves prior to writing your post ... geez

I am really sorry for Sg, Robin and Flyer. You sure need to examine your heads. It is disheartening that humanbeings still reason like you do. You really think that the American people can actually be bought, given the present state of the Economy. You people must be from another Planet. SORRY!

You all that think Obama is involved in this have it all wrong. Blago made some nasty remarks about Obama because he would only offer "appreciation" and couldn't be bought.

Hey Robin – was Obama implicated in theFBI complaint?

Uh.........right. That would be a big fat NO!

Really...and what has George W, & his crew bought besides over 4K dead heroes, 14 years of Govt deregulation & bending to their knees for Big Oil..

Do you guys really want to go there. Truth be told neither side Dems or GOP should be pointing fingers. A scurge upon both your houses..

All are punished......

after 8 years of bush. Nothing surprises me anymore!

Why does this event automatically cause the concern that Obama bought the White House? What ties Obama directly to this event other than it is his Senate seat that is being auctioned off , among other criminal acts performed by the Governor? I would suggest one should refrain from drawing a conclusion that is purely conjecture especially since there are no facts reported to support such a claim. True Chicago is known for its polictics but there is no tie to Obama.

Wake-up or learn to read, people (SG), where did you get the story Obama bought the White House. The GOV. ILLINOIS was arrested, not the President-Elect.

Flyer – you're an idiot. One greedy governor is not tearing the Democratic party apart. That would be YOUR Republican party, stupid, or have you forgotten about Alaska already??? Moron.

This has a bunch of crazy attached to it. Glad Obama made it clear from the get go that he wasn't a part of choosing his successor. I believe that this is probably going to play out bad, but not horrendous. This guy clearly lost his mind somewhere.

Why do people think just because Obama is a senator from IL that he is connected to the Gov.? Draw that comparison between Palin and Stevens then, because it is the same.

Obama slammed cheating southside Democrats to get where he is...he bought and walked all over Chicago Democrats, who are all afraid of his power (money). Rezko was paid to keep his mouth shut about Obama. Obama was told to not vote on certain issues, which he clearly did while a senator for our state. How blind can all of you be? He bought his way to the White House, leaving a trail of untrackable payoffs in his wake.

Hey at least he didn't lie us into a war, imprison people without a right to trial, torture people in places like abu gharib and Gitmo, at least he's not a Bush

P.S. to Ohio for Obama-suburbs – Where have you been, the presidency has always been "for sale". The winners are always the biggest spenders.

sg: I cannot speak for anyone else, but Obama did not buy my vote. I looked at the two candidates who had the most chance of winning, and drew a line of comparison between their platforms. It just so happened that Mr. Obama's platform matched my views about 90% of the time.

Flyer, the DEMOCRATIC party is starting to come apart? Isn't it the Republican one? And how you dare to say that because someone does not agree with that can only mean that he/she/they was/were brainwashed? It's that how you think that you can win any argument? With extremely biased views and a 'I'm smarter/hollier than thou' attitude?
Grow up.
Yeah, it seems that the governor of the state of Illinois is deserving to spent some jail time, let's hope that the case built against him is strong enough for he have it all.
But what does BHO has to do with it? Unless there is strong evidence that pinpoints his participation in this outrageous scam, the whole affair deals with Rod Blagojevich and his chief of staff.
SG, if next time the Republican candidate delivers fresh ideas and not stolen-from-the-Democratic-candidate's ones, forget the swifboatings and smears and (who knows?) picks someone less divisive and more prepared to be the VP, then they will have a chance to win in states that are traditionally 'Blue'. Regardless of how much its spent on the election.

robin, obama may have votted for him thats about it. he was not gov while obama was in the statehouse.

Ohio for Obama,
Proove what? That Obama has ties with Rezko? That has been prooven over and over.

I don't think he "bought" the White House. But he has been "bought and paid for" 700 million times. He was picked and groomed for this. No other JR. Senator would have ever gotten this far without shady contributions.

It will be interesting to watch the downward spiral.

Outside of the fact that it's Obama's senate seat. Where is the EVIDENCE in the 78 page document of phone tap transcripts that Obama was involved? NOWHERE. Where is the "presumption of innocence" in this discussion today? That would be the same place as the evidence linking the PE to this NOWHERE!! For shame people what has happened to America. This is not a country where this type of vigalantee justice should even be thought of much less voiced.

Keep in mind, Obama was the only man in the entire political spectrum of Chicago politics that NEVER was corrupt.

Wait a second- You are all acting like this is the first scandal ever – come on, there are corrupt people in all parties in all levels of government, i'm glad Blagojevich was caught and if it was a Republican, Obama or Palin i would be happy they were caught also!

Being from Illinois and not voting ever for Governor Rod R. Blagojevich, let me be the one to say I told you so to the Chicago Democratic Machine. It was only a matter of time before your boy Rod messed up. He has bankrupted the state, left nothing for our future and ran ever job out of the state that he could by raising corporate taxes when our neighbor, Indiana, was lowering them. Where did the jobs go? Oh yeah, Indiana. Where did this proud and native Illinoisian go? Oh yeah, Indiana. I want my state back. I thank Senator Durbin for calling a special election and not allowing this pathetic governor to nominate our next Senator.

Since Blagojevich was looking for a job for his wife, what would happen if he appointed her to the Senate? Could anyone remove her?

Republican wish for noting but bad new for Obama and the democrat. They should be ashamed of themselves. With all the conservatives pastors and republicans and George Bush taking us to war with his ego that lead to the death of some many people I think If I'm a republican I will think of what our agenda should be. Oh knowing how mean spirited they are all they want is Obama to fall and they forget to point finger at their own wrong doing. It is pathetic. please post

I didn't vote for Obama, but this is Chicago. Both parties are equally corrupt.

This guy replaced a Republican who is in jail right now for corruption.

I think the punishment for corrupt politicians "buying" or "selling" anything should be death. A very painful one.

Public stoning maybe?

THERE IS NO EVIDENCE OF ANY CONNECTION BETWEEN OBAMA AND THIS SCANDAL.

These people are just HORNY to connect Obama to this. It's their only hope. They will carry on and carry on with this just like they did with Clinton.

Palin cannot be Prez. She doesn know enough. She'll be pushed around and she'll make stupid mistakes. The prank call is an omen of what is to come if she is Prez.

Palin! Palin!

Get real - Palin will be facing her own federal indictments before the end of Obama's first term!

Oh Listen to these Republicans here sore bitter losers wah wah crying because their party is dirt, now they will try anything to pin this on Obama but start bringing up their corrupt perverted party and they scatter away!

Can any of you read with comprehension? This article is about the Gov of Illinois trying to get personal gain for naming Obama's successor. It has nothing to do with Obama himself. Intelligence and strategy won the White House for Obama.

Its truly ashame to see what most of the american people voted for is coming to light. I hold no grudge against any of them I just feel that people prey on what we americans want to hear and we believe it at what cost.....

So (SG) if obama bought the white house, I guess the gop cheated and stole votes to get the white house, do not be a sore looser you had your 8 years now its our turn to fix the gop mess again.

So true, Ryan! Clean up your own backyard before you worry about the Democrats and Obama. Take a short trip down memory lane. The Republican scandals abound. Shall we talke about Randy Duke Cunningham?

Robin – which politican doesn't have shady ties?

Stop crying, Obama has nothing to do with this. Obama is clean. Get over it.

First of all, Obama got $700 million from more people donating to his campaign then ever, so he owes the White House to the people not to any special interests. It's about time for that.

Second, if you would take the time to read the FBI report, you will find out that Obama acted in a professional and honorable manner. When Blago asked for something in return, Obama only offered his appreciation.

Third, Does it hurt to be wrong all the time?

America Voted!! Now deal with it. You wanted change and you're getting it. If he was so honest, he would provide his BIRTH CERTIFICATE!!

One Dem for one Republican(Stevenson) appears the score is even in the race for unethical behavior.

LOOK, BOTH PARTIES HAVE CORRUPT MEMBERS, THAT'S POLITICS, YOU COULD HARDLY SAY THAT THIS MEANS THE DEMOCRATS ARE FALLING APART AT THE SEAMS...

Clearly you people have NO CLUE about Illinois politics.

Hot Rod is a Dem by name only. In fact, if he could run as his own Party candidate, he would.

He is a unifier, that is to say that both parties are unified in their hatred of this man. Look up Napoleon complex and you will find a picture of Hot Rod Blago!

By the way, Obama dislikes this crook too ...

I find it amusing that people are trying to link this to Obama... Especially when we just had a GOP president who single handedly funded his friends companies with an entire war.

Well this is definitely a disappointment to our nation but I don't see how many of you people are trying to tie this to Obama? The people of Illinois elected this governor, not the president-elect.

Fresh meat for the Obama- Hater ; can u at leat link what this has to do with the President -elect apart from the fact that this guy has to oick his replacement??? To get the senate seat he competed in an election- and won just like he one htis on e. I love it when people dont get their way – they start throwing slime.

No where in the article does it say Obama did anything. If you would check other sources you'd find that Obama had no idea that this was going on and hasn't been briefed.

To ... The article does not have to say that. We already know it. Anyone should be qualified to take Obama's place in the Senate as long as they can vote "present".

It would truly be amazing that ANYONE coming from the Chicago Dem machine wasn't tainted by it.

Robin, I guess you feel like Obama has ties to OJ as well, get over it, he was elected by THE PEOPLE.

It is supposed to rain here tomorrow. Going to ruin the school field trip. Geez PE Obama !!!!!

At what point does this connect to Obama?
There's no trickery, no excuses as to why McCain lost. He lost. Get over it.

Actually, Obama has remained very clean in Chicago, no small task, which any local operative here will admit.

SG ok theres a difference between a curropt governer and a corrupt president ,, it looks like you voted for Bush and willing to vote for anything that looks like Bush,, you know the White, Im Conservative, take TAX Payers Dollars to fight an unligetiment war kinda thing

So Give us all a break, and take your hate somwhere else,, doesnt work no more!

The first two commenters on this post (Robin and sg) are, judging from said posts, complete and unabashed morons.

Tinfoil-hatters, pay attention: THIS POST HAS NOTHING TO DO WITH OBAMA. Read the criminal complaint against Blagojevich, and try to resonate something remotely resembling understanding.

Obama's proper name is not mentioned anywhere in the complaint. The phrase "President-elect" is used only in Section 4, and only to reference the Senate seat that Obama vacated last month.

No one from Obama's team, even, is mentioned in the complaint. The only two people criminally affected here are Blagojevich and his chief of staff.

Again, just for you wingnuts out there stroking yourselves to copies of Obama birth-certificate lawsuits: the governor of Illinois is accused of criminal activity. It has NOTHING to do with the former junior senator from Illinois. This is just as pathetically stupid as claiming that Hillary Clinton was somehow tainted by the Eliot Spitzer scandal. Build a bridge and get over it.

Obama is not tied to our crappy Govenor. C'mon folks, try and LEARN about things before trying to pin everything on your new President. Yeah, he's YOUR president so deal with it and stop making things up.

Blago is a corrupt politician as is Sen Stevens, Gov Ryan (former republican governor of illinois). This case has as much to do with Obama as Sen Stevens with Pres George Bush and that is ZERO.

Blago is being charged not OBAMA.. if we are looking into ties again, we can look at Cheney\Bush Haliburton.. lumping any and all polititians with Obama transition team is not only imbecillic but it is also typical right wing nutjobs like Limbaugh, Hannity talking points..

having said that..Blago should get the hammer if convicted because you cannot sell a senate seat to the united states senate and it is wrong on all levels... (also note: Blago said F..him meaning Obama when told he would not get diddly for the appointment so make no mistake, Blago is no fan of pre elect)

lol i love how everyone is pointing outthat Obama has ties to this somehow.....except he DOESNT

Hey Flyer, it's "themselves." Learn how to spell before you go around making false accusations...we'll respect you just a *little* bit more.

Listen to these sore losers whine on here. HA HA HA. Don't worry, you will get your chance to replace him with Palin in four years. Oops, I mean 8!

Robin, can you prove your statement?, and sg- how can anyone buy the white house? I believe that votes, and smart campaigning sealed the deal. I'm sorry that Mcccain strategy wasn't as good as the Obama campaign.

It sort of looks like the Democrat party is starting to come apart at the seams.

Robin: What is the connection between president-elect Obama and the governor? Please support your statement.

So all the Obama haters want to blame him for this too? Jeez he will never do anything to make you people happy. I bet Jesus himself could come back and say he is proud that we elected Obama and you people would turn on him lol. Stop the hating.

Who cares. He is the president. Get over it.

What is going on with Governor Palin's investigation? Is she completely clean with her abuse of power investigation?
We don't hear about it anymore.

I knew you narrow-minded folk would want to drag Obama's name into this mess. This has nothing to do with Obama, other than his senate seat was vacant. Just because Blagojevich got caught doesn't mean that all corrupt trails lead to Obama. Ya'll just get on my nerves trying to pyscho everything without all the facts. If Obama had anything to do with this, which I don't he does, he will surely have a radio announcement or briefing to let us know. He has been transparent so far, so before you give Obama the axe, hear the facts.

@ Robin and SG – So do you mean Sarah Palin has shady ties since Ted Stevens was indicted? You buffoons, the Illinois Governor was trying to make money off Obama's succession which would be mainstream public news, which is wrong but that does not mean Obama has shady ties.

Blagojevich was crooked way before Obama even came along. Ask anyone from Illinois. All we have are crooked governors (last one is in jail).

It is only a matter of time before Obama is exposed.............only a matter of time and I am going to enjoy watching every minute of it!

It looks like if you have been brain washed by the ONE, and his gang, people can't think for themselfs.

Yeah, kind of like how you can buy Iraq's oil through war.

Robin, Sg. You guys are idiots!

To user sg, what in God's name does this have to do with Obama "buying" the White House? Obama had nothing to do with Blago's efforts to win favors, and, according to U.S. Attorney Fitzgerald, when Blago pushed Obama's people to give him something if he appointed someone they would like Obama's folks flatly refused. Apparently Blago said of Obama: "they're not willing to give me anything except appreciation. [Expletive] them."

This whole story seems to be a testament to the Obama camps' squeaky-cleanness (not that it was a difficult call to not payoff a corrupt governor for a favor) as opposed to their corruption.

Robin you cant have be a politician and not be interconnected with those around you. Whats wrong Robin you forget to tuck in your white sheet? And SG I was one of the people who contributed to OBAMA... and voted for him. Get over it and go cling to your guns and religion

You people commenting about Obama in this posts about Blagojevich are honestly either just plain dumb or so blinded by your ignorance you can't see the forest for the trees.

1) Blagojevich and Obama had nothing directly to do with each other besides working in the same government (guess that ties McCain and Obama too, eh, since they are both in Congress?).
2) Blagojevich, if you read the accusations, tried to sell the Senate seat having nothing to do with the Presidency.
3) In the papers Blagojevich and his cronies stated that Obama would never "sell" them a place in his government.

Stop being ignorant and actually examine the accusations and investigation before spewing your comments.

There is no alternative other than holding a "special election" for this senate seat. Everything else is so tainted that there is no credibility whatsoever. In order to have openness, an election should be held sooner rather than later, and potential candidates can begin planning for it from tomorrow.

Notice after Obama was elected, then Blago get's arrested. Coincidental? Has any thought maybe Obama made it happen after he was off Blago's leash.

A few of us do care. It's just to bad more don't

Hey, morons,what does President-elect Obama have to do with this. Do not any of you know anybody or have dealings with anybody that has ever been involved with wrong-doing?

Unless people like Dick Durbin manage to get Illinois to violate their own Constitution; or Blago actually does the right thing for once in his miserable politcal career and resigns; the U.S. Senate will just have to get along with 99 Senators for a long while.

Robin: did you question Bushes SHADY TIES I mean it's amazing no one questioned that I guess you didn't care either.

What a jerk Blagojevich is, but this has nothing to do with Obama people...wake up!

I can’t wait for Chicago Politics (interchangeable with organized crime) to enter the White House. The Republican Party is dead and hopefully Chicago Politics will be the end of the Democrats. Come on LP!

This has nothing to do with Obama. He certainly didn't buy the white house. If you read, it says the governor was taking money for the senate seat... Obama has nothing to do with it.

SG where in the article does it say obama bought the White House? epic fail.

SG: Could you please explain to me in exact details how obama bought the White House? Who exactly was he paying? Please explain

Robin and Sy – Did you read the article?

sg.....hey moron...the people of this country elected Obama.

quit grasping at straws...

If things were equal in the country Obama wouldn't have needed 700 million dollars to win but THEIR NOT, so he did...

the obama circle of corrupt chicago politics has begun

LOL. The media kept harping on the fact that Obama had $30 million or so. What do you expect? Blagdo saw deep pockets and he said, "Show me the money!"

What does Obama raising 700 million dollars in donations have to do with anything that's going on now? Absolutely nothing.

I lived in Illinois when Blagojevich was elected. I didn't vote for him, and never really liked him all that much.

I'm saddened for Illinois to see that my gut feelings about the guy were justified.

Anyone he appointed would be suspect from the day they took office. And they would have a hard row to hoe to get re-elected. There's no way Blago. would resign. He's too greedy and power hungry. The Illinois legislature should move IMMEDIATELY to impeach, and remove him from office. He's already bankrupted Illinois in ways that have nothing to do with the recession. That alone deserves removal from office.

Get him out of there...FAST!

It's amazing that Obama has shady ties and nobody cares.

It is about time to leanr and know about all the corruption that has characterized politics in Chicago for a long time. that includes the Governor of Illinois, The Major of Chicago, Important leaders of Labor Unions in Chicago, and members of the Congress and Senate representing Illinois who for a long time knew about the corruption and did nothing. Who for a long time knew about cases like the one of Tony Rezko who contributed millions of dollars to elect, Senators, Gevernors, and members of the Congress to increase his economic and political power. This is just the tip of the ice and more will come out in the next days. It is all linked to Washington.

OF COURSE! THIS IS DESPICABLE...... HORRIBLE....WHAT KIND OF A MAN IS THIS ......... BLAGOJEVICH??????????????????????

TOSS HIM OUT OF OFFICE........NOW!

Democrats handed another match to Republicans and the Neocons to start another fire on President-Elect Obama. Wake up Democrat politicians.

So – Obama bought the White House. You can buy almost anything with nearly 700 million bucks.

Blagojevich should resign, self-flagellate, and spend the rest of his life performing community service. Here we thought we were electing the guys in the white hats at last and he has to go and taint Obama with the odor of old-style Chicago politics. We don't need this guy.

The Gov should go to the pen for a very long time and this should happen as soon as possible. Two Gov in a row. ILL Government need some clean up.

Let's see, which of these people offered the most money for the job? My guess is the safest bet is Lisa Madigan at this point. At least she's an attorney and should know better.

Ah yes... here is the CHANGE we can believe in... sleazy Chicago thug politics... YES YOU CAN!

I'm a hard-core Obama Democrat and fully support sending this guy to jail, effective immediately. They have the proof of what he intended to do. He should not be allowed to perform any more duties in government. Period.

What a sad situation for our state and our country. In the midst of all the diasters that face us we do not need to be confronted with one more crooked politician. Unfortunately, for whoever he picks, they will have no creditibility because it is his choice.
Honor and integrity is a must for those leading our country. Power and ego seems to replace these requirements from the administration down to our local offices. The elections of our representatives for our country needs to be revised. Strict ethics instilled. And punishnent and justice for any politician who breaks the law, no matter at what level.

Living in Chicago...these revelations disgust me. There's a reason that the Governor has such low approval ratings. What's even more sad about the situation is that Gov. Blagojevich ran on the theme of eliminating corruption in Illinois after our last governor, George Ryan, was indicted. All of this goes to show that regardless of political party, there's still corruption in Illinois government.

Now watch some confederates try and pin some of this on Obama...

Despite the fact tha Fitzgerald already told 'e that Obama has NOTHING to do with it...

Though I voted for Obama I voted against Blagojvech twice, always thought he was a crook. I love living in Illinois it doesnt make any difference if our govenors are Republicans or Democrats, they all end up in jail somehow

I had a teacher that used to say "Democrat, huh?... THAT'S a funny was to spell Republican!" Party affiliiation doesn't mean a thing... power corrupts. The vigilance of WE THE PEOPLE is the ONLY thing that keeps this democracy in check.

I know many on the left are excited about Obama and the Democratic landslide, and that's great, but stay vigilant! This case is proof positive (again – William Jefferson anyone?) that all these Dems are just as corruptable and flawed as the Bushies...

This guy should not retain the right to name a Chia Pet, never mind a replacement Senator of this country

Put the bum behind bars

An appointment by a three year old would have more credibility than by this idiot

Chicago politicians

GREAT, another Chicago Democrat bites the Dust....NOW WE'RE ABOUT TO HAVE ANOTHER CORRUPT CHICAGO POLITICIAN IN THE WHITE HOUSE!!!

The FBI affidavit said Blagojevich had been told by an adviser "the president-elect can get Rod Blagojevich's wife on paid corporate boards in exchange for naming the president-elect's pick to the Senate."

Enough said.

This looks too much like a reality show to be real.
MZ

Maybe he'll appoint Reverend Wright or even Bill Ayers. Keep it in the family you know!
After all, if Obama says they're good, they must be good!

Now who would have thought that anything the Democrats in Illinois would be illegal ???

Just like Washington, CROOKS have more rights than the average person. That is appalling that he can keep his right to seat a senator. He is a crook like the rest of them living on our tax payer dollars,

How about Patrick Fitzgerald?? The man is obviously briliant and a patriot. It would also bring incredible amount of integrity to Congress.

Tsk, Tsk, Tsk, it is a dismal day in American political history period without throwing party affiliation into this sad saga!!! Prayers to his family and people of his state and our nation @ this low ebb of
poor choice behavior in our nation.

I don't see how this has anything to do with Obama? Did anyone blame Goeorge Bush for Senator Craigs toilet footsie? Give this a break!

Another Kool-Aid drinker bites the dust….teflon obama will probably avoid this scandal as well, but eventually the truth will come out about the obama chicago sleeze...not eligible to be president, illegal campaign contributions, all kinds of secret deals to get support and favors owed....guy can't even tell the truth about smoking (who cares, he just can't be truthful)....sad day for America that this clown will be the next president and his fellow jesters will be running the asylum.

Slime!

This is just so typical of the tradition of "good government" in Illinois.

Chicago politics at work. What a venal place. Obama should reject anyone this crook names.

WOW................... POLITICIANS. I guess when you look up the word criminal in the dictionary you will find it defined as a politician or Auto Industry CEO. Is there no one that is still honest?

Hopefully, he will choose the right person now, and not someone who was not on his list to "pay for a seat!"

Emil JOnes? Hell no. Yes to Jess Jackson Jr. I seem to like the guy. He seems like a moderate.

This is typical Chicago politics. Aren't there any honest politicians in the state of Illinois or the city of Chicago? Is this what we have to look forward to in the next 4 or 8 years? The power of politics breeds criminal behavior. This is shameful.

Jesse White shouldnt even be on the list. He told us he'll be a one-term Sec of State. He ended serving many many times. And in those times, he had IL pay for license plates which has never been done before. Get rid of Jesse White.

Why doesn't this mention Valerie Jarrett as a potential Senate pick? She's likely the Obama advisor that Obama wanted to replace him. Blago didn't want her in without some sort of a payback from Obama.

Blagojevich cursed at Obama, called him names because Obama does not support pay to play. I guess Blagojevich is getting his karmic due.

Oh Dear – someone now will have to ask each of these people if they were involved. Sounds like a mess to sort out.

I dont understand this situation. People act like Blago is the only person that has EVER thought of such actions. Lock Palin first and we can start addressing how to lock up Blago.

naughty naughty

No matter what, he is still our governor. Palin was under a cloud of corruption and she STILL ran for VP. It's so stupid to arrest him before Christmas and New Year. WE're in our new low of not catching real crooks, but haunting helpless government officials. Have we tapped into the phones of DRUGLORDS in America lately? Let's catch all real crooks first!!

Obama should press for impeachment to maintain integrity within the party. A few bad apples happen to every organization the question is only how they are handled. The Democrats can't go Larry Craig like the Republicans and lose all their gains. Obama is the party leader so he should call the shots and get this guy behind him before he gets in front of his agenda. This guy could tarnish everything if handled improperly.

Blagojevich needs to get out.

Give me a break! How dumb do you think Americans really are?

There is nothing new here. The guy just got caught?

How do you think PEBO got where he is? "Chicago smack down" plus you grease my palm, and I will grease yours and media control!

HA HA!!!!!

Unbelievable!! This man was already under investigation by the federal government for one thing and he still does something else corrupt. Greed, greed, greed.

Just a question, if he is tried, convicted, and incarcerated, wouldn't that also remove him from office?

Still waiting to see the evidence though. Federal prosecuters are currently Republican hacks hired by Bush to enforce the policy of "Permanent Republican Majority". Now with that not possible, they may go on a rampage trying to do as much damage as they can to national unity.

This middle-aged white dude thinks Jesse Jr would be a good choice. As long as he doesn't consult his father on policy.

This guy – like Bush – is SLIME...

The government charges that Blagojevich and his chief of staff, John Harris, were "conspiring to obtain personal financial benefits" for the Illinois governor by leveraging his power to appoint a senator to replace Obama. Blagojevich has repeatedly denied any wrongdoing.
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Okay, so what did they do? How did they conspire? I need more details.

Maybe now that he's been busted, he no longer has the opportunity to profit from his decision. I wish that he would lose the right to make that decision, but at least now he will hopefully make that decision based on something other than greed.