Calling the Question — In the House — on Impeaching Cheney
Broadcast media’s gate-keeping “stars” have done just about everything in their power to keep the matter of presidential accountability off the radar of the American people. That was evident during the most recent Democratic presidential debate, when NBC anchors Brian Williams and Tim Russert meticulously avoided following up on Congressman Dennis Kucinich’s three references to impeachment but somehow found time to grill the contenders on UFOs and what costume Barack Obama would be wearing on Halloween.
Pollsters are almost as bad. Rarely are questions about impeachment included in statewide or national surveys.
Despite the lack of media coverage, however, when citizens are asked what they think about holding members of the Bush administration to account, they respond with an enthusiasm far greater than that displayed for impeaching Richard Nixon at the height of the Watergate scandal. It is this reality — as opposed to the state of denial fostered by so much of the media and the political class — that Congressman Dennis Kucinich will act upon next week, when he offers a privileged resolution on the House floor to bring articles of impeachment against Vice President Dick Cheney.
Kucinich will face an uphill fight in a chamber led by House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, the California Democrat who continues to say that impeachment is “off the table.”
The Ohio congressman and long-shot presidential contender may not be following the rules of engagement as dictated by major media and his party leaders. But when Kucinich raises the issue of impeachment, he will be speaking for a great mass of Americans who agree with his argument that, “Congress must hold the Vice President accountable.”
How great?
A fresh poll conducted for Vermont’s WCAX television station finds that citizens of that state enthusiastically believe that Congress beginning impeachment proceedings against President Bush.
Sixty-one percent of the Vermonters surveyed favor taking steps to impeach the president, while just 33% oppose doing so.
The numbers are even higher for impeaching Cheney. Sixty-four percent of Vermonters favor beginning the process of holding the vice president to account, where only 31 percent are opposed.
The greater level of support for impeaching Cheney parallels the few nationwide figures that have been ascertained. When the American Research Group conducted a national survey in early July of this year, it found that 54 percent of American adults wanted the House to begin impeachment proceedings against Cheney — with 76 percent of Democrats, 51 percent of independents and a striking 17 percent of Republicans favoring the step.
Forty-six percent of Americans surveyed backed impeachment proceedings against Bush — with support for impeachment at 69 percent among Democrats, 50 percent among independents and 13 percent among Republicans.
What is notable is that, when Time magazine surveyed Americans in the late spring of 1974, after the Watergate scandal had evolved into a full-scale crisis of confidence in Nixon’s presidency, only 43 percent favored impeachment.
A media that actually had a sense of history, not to mention reality, would focus on the fact that Americans are more supportive of a congressional intervention to thwart Bush and Cheney’s wrongdoing than they were of moves to hold Nixon to account just months before the former president resigned in disgrace.
Now, it falls to Kucinich to speak the reality that, “The momentum is building for impeachment. Millions of citizens across the nation are demanding Congress rein in the Vice President’s abuse of power.”
Says the congressman, “Despite this groundswell of opposition to the unconstitutional conduct of office, Vice President Cheney continues to violate the U.S. Constitution by insisting the power of the executive branch is supreme… The Vice President continues to use his office to advocate for a continued occupation of Iraq and prod our nation into a belligerent stance against Iran. If the Vice President is successful, his actions will ensure decades of disastrous consequences.”
Kucinich introduced articles of impeachment against Cheney several months ago, and his H. Res. 333 has attracted almost two dozen co-sponsors. All Democrats, they are Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Robert Brady (D-PA), Yvette Clarke (D-NY), Rep. William Lacy Clay (D-MO), Rep. Steve Cohen (D-TN), Rep. Keith Ellison (D-MN), Rep. Sam Farr (D-CA), Rep. Bob Filner (D-CA), Rep. Sheila Jackson-Lee (D-TX), Rep. Henry Johnson (D-GA), Rep. Carolyn Kilpatrick (D-MI), Rep. Barbara Lee (D-CA), Rep. Jim McDermott (D-WA), Rep. James Moran (D-VA), Rep. Donald Payne (D-NJ), Rep. Jan Schakowsky (D-IL), Rep. Edolphus Towns (D-NY), Rep. Maxine Waters (D-CA), Rep. Diane Watson (D-CA), Rep. Lynn Woolsey (D-CA) and Rep. Albert Wynn (D-MD).
Frustrated by the refusal of Democratic leaders to set up a process for holding hearings on his proposal, Kucinich will use an arcane House rule allowing for the prodding of the process with privileged resolutions to try and force consideration. Once introduced, a privileged resolution must be addressed within two legislative days.
Kucinich is expected to offer his privileged resolution on Tuesday. He expects to continue pushing it until the House acts. That action is likely to be a successful move by Democratic leaders to table the measure. Such a vote could be instructive, however, in that it would provide a rare measure of the willingness of at least some House members to respond to the popular will — which is that Dick Cheney be held to account.
© 2007 The Nation
I M P E A C H !
Given Bush’s outrageous obstructionist behavior, be it through the veto or assinine Department Head nominations, not to mention the Iraq Occupation and its costs, that leaves little else for them to do but impeach. Impeach now.
I M P E A C H !
Not that it counts, but I vote:
IMPEACH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I M P E A C H !
I notice my Congressman (Loebsack) is not on the list mentioned, I’ve been on him since he took office, and keep reminding him he is looking more like a political shill everyday since the election. Another one is coming, just not soon enough it seems. Go DENNIS!
Too bad CSPAN 3 will be the only place to watch this on Tuesday. And most people don’t get CSPAN 3, except by streaming online. I do believe that while Kucinich will be delivering his indictment of Cheney on the House floor, the Senate Judiciary Committee will be grilling Mukasey a little more on his confusion over whether or not waterboarding should be considered torture and therefore is illegal.
Tuesday should be quite a day. It is “Election Day” nationally on local issues and a National Strike has been called by a writer at Harper’s magazine. Great day to stay home, keep the computer on CSPAN 3 for the Senate Mukasey hoopla and the TV on CSPAN 1 to watch Dennis Kucinich make history.
I was proud to hear Dennis Kucinich bring up impeachment at the debate this past week and I will be proud to hear him bring it up on the House floor. He is a brave and Patriotic American we should all be very proud of. I am happy to say I have contributed to his campaign.
Go Kucinich!
Let’s see if it gets any coverage in the corporate media.
“Kucinich will face an uphill fight in a chamber led by House Speaker Nancy Pelosi …”
Damn those Republicans. We really must elect the Democrats to take back ‘our’ governement. That’ll fix things.
Oh! Wait a minute …
impeach, convict, hang, quarter and force feed the scraps to Rupert Murdoch.
Again we have the nonsense polls.. x% said this and y% said that. BS!
Pelosi will not impeach either bush or Cheney. If Cheney started to murder American citizens in broad daylight in front of hundreds of witnesses she still wouldn’t attempt to impeach him. Pelosi will not do her job. Period. She will sit in her chair and soak up her paychecks until she gets booted out. It was a huge mistake to elect her. She could easily be replaced by a parrot.
So now Mr. Kucinich, the only person in congress even attempting to do his/her job, is going to try to push impeachment. Since the entire congress will roll over and play dead on this issue, nothing will happen. His attempt will be a failure.
What Mr. Kucinich will gain is the remembrance that he tried. He has tried and he is still trying. I’m sure a movie will be made about him one day. They’ll call it “The Last American”.
Mr. Kucinich is the only clean spot in the seemingly endless sea of corruption. I salute him. Let his honor stand for the record. It’s sad that it stands alone.
Sounds to me like a stunt that cannot possibly help liberals’ chances of actually regaining control of the country in 2008. Voters would like an impeachment that wins, just as they like a sports team that wins. They’re not gonna clap for a real impeachment effort that loses.
Yeah what the heck are they waiting for? The timidity and indecisiveness of the Democratic Party is nauseating. Can anyone say ONE PARTY STATE? Can anyone say Kabuki Theater? Potemkin Village?
Kerry was the Washington Generals of the 2004 election. Do you remember the Washington Generals? They were a basketball team that regularly played the Harlem Globetrotters. They were always supposed to lose, but (and this was the hard part) they had to look like they were serious competitors.
Today, we have a Democraptic party that doesn’t even pretend anymore to be serious competitors. Instead of being the Washington Generals now they’re the favored nephew of the rich uncle, with seats behind first base.
finally someone in a position of power attempts to follow the constitution and the will of the people, and it’s labeled a “STUNT”????
[quote]Daniel David November 2nd, 2007 2:40 pm — Sounds to me like a stunt that cannot possibly help liberals’ chances of actually regaining control of the country in 2008. Voters would like an impeachment that wins, just as they like a sports team that wins. They’re not gonna clap for a real impeachment effort that loses.[/quote]
Ergo, we should oppose an honest effort might fail and support those who refuse even to try. Brilliant! It’s just too bad that you aren’t advising BushCo.
By all means!!
IMPEACH THE BASTARDS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
YEAH, FOR KUCINICH…….!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
VOTE FOR KUCINICH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
SEND A “NEGATIVE” VOTE TO THE NATION!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
sierra
It gives hope to see atleast a lone presidential contender being consistent with regards to war and government accountability. He is the lone voice (probably a handful of other senators) that is speaking the “minority American language”. It is the lone voice that is not succumbed to the “language of the transnational companies”. The meager American public support to Kucinich only strengthens Jason Miller’s diognosis of American public, which he calls “Americanistic Personality Disorder”: “The essential features of Americanistic Personality Disorder include pervasive patterns of extreme self-absorption, profound and long-term lapses in empathy, a deep disregard for the well-being of others, a powerful aversion to intellectual honesty and reality, and a grossly exaggerated sense of the importance of one’s self and one’s nation. These patterns emerge in infancy, manifest themselves in nearly all contexts, and often become pathological.
“These patterns have also been characterized as sociopathic, or colloquially as the “Ugly American Syndrome.” Note that the latter terminology carries too benign a connotation to accurately describe an individual afflicted with such a dangerous perversion of character.
For this diagnosis to be given, the individual must be deeply immersed in the flag-waving, nationalistic, and militaristic fervor derived primarily from the nearly perpetual barrage of reality warping emanations of the “mainstream media,” most commonly through the medium of television. Typically indoctrinated from birth to believe that they are morally superior, exceptional human beings, these individuals suffer from severe egocentrism, a condition further engendered by the prevalence of the acutely toxic dominant paradigm known as capitalism.”
Standing ovation for Dennis Kucinich!
Here’s a man of whom the USA can be justly proud.
The facts supporting CONVICTION after impeachment are rock solid–in other words, the act is a WINNER. Pelosi’s mission for the DLC is clear–to maintain presidential IMPUNITY.
F___ Pelosi. She has betrayed Democrats. I will not ever vote for her for anything ever.
Thank you Kucinich for having the integrity to do what the spineless Democrats and/or Congress refuse to do. We support you with this Kucinich!!!!!!!!!
Mr, David,
Are you real, or are you an A-I political-bot application that spouts, right on time, all the stuff we despise about the US political system and Democrats in particular.
I’ll tell you what; I will accept the Democrat’s argument of keeping impeachment off the table as a tactical political expedient, if they instead promise to:
1. Proceed with war-crimes and crimes against humanity indictments and arrest of the entire administration, the moment they step down on January 20, 2009;
2. Followed by a trial in an interntational venue such as the Hague.
This is not about politics, or “winning” it is about justice - criminals MUST be made to pay for their vile crimes, and to provide an example for others.
Kucinich is the one to watch. He’s the one that represents the people, the one who can turn the tables on the war criminals.
Here’s a different thought
Dennis Kucinich for President
“Strength Through Peace”
www.youtube.com/watch?v=mSGiVjiz5Kg
I M P E A C H, and later R E M O V E, and later I N D I C T for war crimes, and then later, S E N T E N C E to life imprisonment.
Go get em tiger!!!!
And put a tack on Nancy’s seat if you get a chance.
Daniel David, that’s speculation. It could also work in the Dem’s favor if they use it right win or lose.
Kucinich is still a long shot, but I don’t think the UFO thing hurt him that much.
Impeachment is important because this administration, with such an abysmally low approval rating, and with nothing to lose in its last days in office, poses a real threat to our national security. Nothing short of starting impeachment proceedings will curtail their last grab for power. Impeachment is long overdue and necessary for the public welfare.
Thank you Dennis!
George WW3 Bush is a three-legged stool [-an intended scatological reference!] and if, -no, *WHEN!* one of his three legs is kicked away, this abysmal moron will crumble into the heap of dog mess which is his actuality.
Please, *PLEASE* Mr Kucinich! - please keep on kicking at the *devil-incarnate* Cheney, until this vile specimen at last tumbles from power, and the world can again start to breath: ~ freed at last from the tyranny of the insane asylum which the Bush/Cheney coven represents…
PJD,
Yes, I am a real person, and not a ‘bot’, or even a Dem Party activist, as many imagine. I am heart-broken over the last seven years, and committed to seeing liberals and moderates regain control of America. This is done in elections, and as righteous as a Bush/Cheney impeachment might be, I don’t think this one is going to either succeed or help. That’s why I’m not with the “just do it anyway” crowd.
Go Dennis! And thank you!
I kinda doubt impeachment proceedings against first Cheney and then Bush could make the 110th Congress’ 11% approval ratings go much lower!
Investigate, IMPEACH, convict!
[quote]PJD November 2nd, 2007 3:00 pm — Mr, David, Are you real, or are you an A-I political-bot application …[/quote]
The tactics reflect one of the corporate world’s most highly favored strategies — i.e., the inducement of a sense of helpless acceptance amongst the consumer base.
All too often, it works quite well. If you can be made to feel powerless to effect any changes that really matter, you’re more likely to accept whatever thin gruel is on offer in place of what you know is actually needed and wanted.
Action MUST be taken to impeach Bush/Cheney. What we don’t need at this point are calculating politicians simply trying to gain power and get elected through any means possible (such as avoidance of doing what is right).
What about moral/ethical/legal considerations?
Washington is digusting. Kucinich is one of our few leaders worthy of any admiration.
I’ve just emailed my two congress people to sign on (while berating them for not having done so already).
Impeachment has to be on the table. It has to be pursued. It might be the one way to keep this administration busy with something worthwhile so they don’t bomb Iran. Oh crap! I just realized, they’d probably bomb Iran just to avoid dealing with being impeached….
How about impeaching him for knowingly harbouring terrorists (which according to Bush is the same as being a terorist)
“The officer who commands U.S. forces in northern Iraq , Maj. Gen. Benjamin Nixon , last week said he planned to do “absolutely nothing” to curb PKK activities.”
not to mention that greasy little terrorist they are harbouring in Miami
The MEMORIZATION and RESPECT of the Declaration of Independence AND the USA Constitution followed EXACTLY AS WRITTEN should be required for Cabinet members and Congresspeople alike in your nation. If a person is unable to do this, he should not have the position he does. The person in Cabinet or Congress should be fired “impeached” whatever one wish to call it. Perhaps more in the world would show respect for you Americans if you jump off the high horse of hypocrisy.
This is a little off topic but how dare your President compare Osama bin Laden to Hitler and Lenin. Does George know history? lol… If Czar Nicholas II treated his people nicely and provided for their needs, Lenin would not have taken part in the 1917 revolution of Russia against Czar Nicholas II and therefore would not have happened. If France were not well…basically a**holes to the German people during their 125 year occupation of Germany - while the Jewish population lived in opulence during the same period as the rest of the German people were broke and starving - WW2 and the Holocaust would not have happened
I know…the truth hurts. Does it not? Myself living in Europe and being familiar with THE TRUTH perhaps spoiled my mind compared to Americans - the experts on positive morality. Your politicians would NEVER lie to you I know.
Damn, I like this guy….. so much that I just called his headquarters and gave him $75….. You can do it to!
The number is: 1-877-431-3664
If ever in U.S. Constitutional history there was a time to act on Impeachment, it is now. Of course, most Republicans in Congress will block this — goes without saying. But I will be taking note of all the Democrats who continue to block a vital and NECESSARY investigation into the criminal activities that have taken place by this facist regime of an illegal sham of a presidency since day one! When will they honor their oaths of office??? When will they stop ignoring the will of the people??? We must DEMAND AND DEMAND AND DEMAND to be heard by Democrats, including Pelosi, and the media — PERIOD!
IMPEACH! Cheney and Bush are war criminals. Restore the Constitution. Re-create a truly free press. End the illegal and immoral occupation of Iraq and Afghanistan. Stop war moves against Iran. Power to the People! Use the people’s money for the people! Veto Bush and Cheney, not health care for children.
I am glad Barbara Lee is my rep. Right on, Barbara. In the Senate, I think Barbara Boxer has the right idea and would only need some encouragement if impeachment ever moves out of the House. Feinstein, a Bush apologist and supporter of ever more reckless measures in “The War on Terror” is another story. I think she has Israel and Empire on the brain.
Will it take a mass uprising? What will it take? We have to stop these enemies of the people.
Peace, Paix, Pas, Pax, Mir, Etc.
We, the People, did this to ourselves when we did not remember Cheney and his executive powers/monarchal philosophies from way back in the Nixon administration. He has been a thorn in my side since then, especially during the Iran Contra era, the Watergate era, and now in the Bush Administration. Cheney is the rottenest apple in the Bush basket, and needs to be permanently excised from political influence in D.C. and elsewhere. He’s overdue for charges of Impeachment AND war crimes. When will the electorate learn that History is supposed to teach us lessons to keep us from repeating our mistakes? Fool me once, shame on you; fool me twice, shame on me.
Kucinich has the right idea…I’m happy to see that some of CA’s members are on track with Dennis. This impeachment process must be in the works before we find ourselves bombing Iran. And before we go to the polls again. Bush and Cheney work secretly and they work fast…so you all better contact your senators and representatives and let your voices be heard.
is impeachment really enough?
Is it settled yet? Is everyone here now supporting his campaign? Have you given money? Time?
http://www.kucinich4president.org
Impeach? Pigs might fly too! The Democrats have no spine or ethics! They were elected on a “get out of Iraq/make Bush accountable” ticket. Once ensconced in power - forget that nonsense.
A “stunt”? Get real! Since when has it become a stunt to do what is necessary to put into effect what those who elected you want done?
Impeachment isn’t enough. Cheney should be jailed for war profiteering and Bush should be jailed for desertion and for subverting the constitution….both should lose their fat government pensions and should lose all benefits,, like free medical care and secret service protection. Let them hire Blackwater.
“I am heart-broken over the last seven years, and committed to seeing liberals and moderates regain control of America. ”
The real question is why you’re not heart-broken by the GOP lite “leadership” in the so-called Democratic Party as well. Enjoy your thin gruel, I hear it tastes just like chicken that’s been left out in the sun for a day or two.
I would finish here with “don’t mourn, organize!” but it appears that you’re more interested in following blindly then pushing for change actively. Shame on you for being such a coward.
Addendum. It seems the Democrats only have coward’s courage, i.e., to support actions against smaller nations who have no real prospect of defending themselves against the US.
I read the passionate statements of the readers, with one notable defeatist exception of “Daniel David,” to whom a few of the readers have already responded appropriately. I am impressed by the intensity of their emotions. Such a move in the House of Representatives could pry Kucinich for a breif moment from the sidelines to the center spotlight. At the very least, it could as well highlight the great divide between the people and the politicians.
All of us idealists are tired of getting slapped around by the corporate-driven, “fix-is-in” pundits. If linearity and probability can not be dwarfed by an occasional miracle, there is no hope for any of us. Will that miracle be impeachment? One thing that is certain to me as I read these statements, is that a lot of us feel very strongly and very deeply. A poll measures only numbers, and not the depth and breadth of those numbers. What is shaping up to be a solid movement toward progressive change is evident in today’s readers’ comments. Regardless of specifics, that is always to be considered good news.
www.raycarlson.com
Thank you Dennis!
It is nice to see that we still have someone out there with some balls!!!!
I will call my representative to tell him to vote to impeach.
PLEASE everyone, do the same!
Ralph Nader is talking to Wolf Blitzer - Wolf Blitzer being the enabler of the status quo - as I type this. Ralph Nader…RUN FOR PRESIDENT OF THE USA! ok…Ron Paul Dennis Kicinich and Ralph Nader will treat Americans good. All three people will put YOURSELVES FIRST if any of these three men were elected. One is a Republican (Ron Paul) one is a Democreat (Dennis Kucinich) and one is a Green (Ralph Nader). Despite the political affiliation…ANY ONE OF THESE THREE…will put YOURSELVES FIRST! Write any of their names if you have to on the ballot. Please…you need salvation from yourselves.
Clearly Kucinich is acting out of a deeply felt conviction that putting impeachment front and center (and putting himself on the front line again) is a dire necessity *right now* to underscore the very real immanence of war using nuclear weapons in Iran. I agree with Coyotita here.
All of us appreciate support when we’re about to do something that requires all our courage. Even if Kucinich speaks to a largely empty House, he’s still doing something that takes a lot of guts. Cheney’s got a lot of clout, and he’s got a lot of people running scared. I’m sure there are ways to rationalize just sitting tight and doing nothing, but Kucinich isn’t buying that. Now’s the time to offer him the backing that his action requires, and that’s exactly why John Nichols is writing this piece, imho.
Nancy Pelosi is to the Democratic party in the USA as Ramsay MacDonald was to the Labour party in the UK: a f***ing traitor.
Impeach Pelosi.
I hope you all have maybe seen the recent Frontline, Cheney’s World. In it you witness the battle between the president and congress for the unbridled power of the “unitary executive.” What we appear to have is a small group of individuals who have managed so far very effectively by their manipulation of the law and the constitution to grab all the power for themselves. They have perhaps made it prohibitively difficult to impeach them, living in a kind of isolation as they seem to do.
That being said, if ever there was a time to impeach a president and his cronies, this is the time before they lead us into difficulties beyond current comprehension. Alas, perhaps they know best what is best for us?
IMPEACH THE NEOCONS!!!
ALL OF THEM!!!
IMPEACH!!!
With tears of gratitude for DK in my eyes:
IMPEACH!!!!!!
IMPEACH ALL THE NEOCONS!
I would vote for dennis in a second.
He has always been my favorite.
He is the first person that I can remember that has no problem telling the truth.
I don’t feel that anything can be done about this.
We lost our focus on what is good and right about 30 years ago and we all went to the mall.
The progressive movement has been crushed in every effot it has made to hold on to what is right for the common good.e.g. unions, child labor, the dangers of nuclear power, clean air and water, the right to privacy, the 2 wars in Iraq, a stolen Presidency, the ERA, affordable college education for all, Welfare for the Poor and Mentally Ill, continued global warming, NAFTA, ( fill in the blank ) and we have basically given our free press to Mr. Murdoch and our children to the Republican agenda with No Child Left Behind.
Dismanteling the Social Security System and a War in Iran will be next along with taking away hard money and putting it all on chips.
There are huge think tanks behind this..never doubt it and they count on our apathy and feed it with disposable income to spend on more junk at Walmart.
I truly feel at this point Mother Nature will step in and give us all a wake up call.
Whether we rise or fall will probably be more up to our individual spunk than the leaders that we choose.
I hate to be so doom and gloom but barring a miracle or a wave of citizen politicians stepping up and taking back our government, we are probably headed for the cliff like the lemmings.
Impeach. But nobody is listening to the American people. THe media seems to be ignoring the voice of the American majority with its manipulative partners in the White House. The Frontline report on Cheney and cohorts was very revealing AND still nothing except for DK and his conscience. We need to give him our support!
Watch your back Dennis. Although we have it, figuratively, the dark powers that want impunity for their criminal behavior, don’t want to be fucked with.
Signed,
The American’s
Brian Williams and Tim Russert are to journalism what Britney Spears is to blues music.
If this country had a true democracy with constitution abiding leaders this would never have happened. The next Attorney General should make his first duty to this country sending a few hundred federal marshalls to arrest everyone in the white house and pentagon that have been accomplices in the criminal acts committed by the current unelected crime family..Kucinich will also re–open the 911 investigation with INDEPENDENT criminal prosecutors to arrest and publicize the true killers on 911 that ordered norad to standdown and allow the twin towers to implode on themselves after being laced with explosives by bushs brother who was in charge of security at 1 & 2 & 7==pentagon..
Daniel David–Democracy is not a spectator sport, although our misleaders would have us think so. We’ve all got to actively support Kucinich in his efforts. Impeachment is the first step. Thank god for Dennis Kucinich.
JJP
Dennis and everyone fighting/working for peace and justice have nothing to fear, except for fear itself.
The world has changed since the bastards killed JFK & MLK. Circumstances beyond their control have prevented them from killing Fidel Castro, Hugo Chavez, and many other outspoken critics of the oligarchy. Despite all superficial, contradictory appearances - with each passing day, the light gains and the darkness weakens. That will continue for hundreds of years.
Paranoia is a poison. If people are too paranoid to act, they might as well be dead.
Kucinich–good man!
Don’t be surprised, on a side note, if his poll numbers rise dramatically after this action.
The only downside I can see is that the mainstream media will do everything it can to suppress information about what Dennis is about to do. We can expect a veritable *explosion* of features about Britney, Lindsay, Paris Hilton, Donald Trump vs. Rosie, the “epidemic of obesity”, the latest super-hero flick, and who else in Harry Potter is gay.
Let’s do something for Dennis Kuncinich to show him there’s real support for his gutsy impeachment actions.
If Dennis wins the Democracy in Action (DFA) straw poll now in progress he could inherit a strong national volunteer field operation Dennis is in 2nd place in the DFA poll and gaining. Below is an email from Dennis’ campign; it has a link to the DFA poll and instructions on how to vote: I can’t think of a better way to say thank you Dennis.
–Bill Garrett, Cleanpeace.org
“We’re off to a great start in the Democracy for America national online presidential straw poll. …. Dennis is currently in 2nd place and gaining on the leader with less than 6 days to go. We are working hard to win this poll and need your help to do it. You can get Dennis into 1st place and keep him there. …please cast your vote for Dennis Kucinich now by following the simple instructions below. Then forward this e-mail to all of your friends and family asking them to vote for Dennis too. If you are a member of any groups or clubs, please encourage them to vote for Dennis Kucinich as well. …
Three Easy Steps required to vote in this Poll.
1) Please go to the following link:
http://DemocracyforAmerica.com/VoteKucinich
2) Dennis Kucinich’s picture will be added to box #1 automatically for you. Follow the Instructions and vote for 2 additional candidates by dragging and dropping the other candidates pictures into box #2 and #3. If you do not wish to vote for anyone other than Dennis Kucinich simply drag and drop the picture labeled “Other ?” into box #2 and #3 and type in “Dennis Kucinich” in both boxes.
3) Once you have filled in all three of your choices a Registration box will appear below the 3 boxes. You will need to enter your Email Address, Zip Code, First and Last Name and then click on the submit button in order for your vote to be counted. That’s it!
We really need your help in telling others to vote for Dennis in this very important Poll. So please share the above link with as many people as you can.
Please vote today and promote this poll strongly. The poll closes on Monday November 5th at Midnight. If you have any questions, please e-mail us at dfa@kucinich.us
Impeachment!
Get on with it!!
Max
Bingo, you are so right!
I just fear a Paul Wellstone incident, what with Dennis flying around campaigning and all.
These people are criminals, cornered animals, and they have their hands on billions, and more addicting, is that power. They are setting up a scenario for establishing marshall law, after they pull 911-2, blame Iran, and launch the B-2’s - there WILL be blood in the streets of America.
The American’s are waking up to the 10 step plan that is being carried out right under our noses.
All the more reason to start IMPEACHMENT proceedings NOW.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/usa/story/0,,2064157,00.html
The idea of impeaching these war criminals, Bush and Cheney, is a real solution and I support Dennis Kucinich in the impeachment resolutions and as a presidential candidate. However, the problem is with the senate since in takes 2/3rds majority to convict in the senate. They would have to get a lot of Republicans to support it. I would still love to see them debate it. Dennis Kucinich for president!
“is impeachment really enough?”
No, but it’s a start. I’d gladly settle for a war crimes trial in its place, though.
Dennis is a Champion and my Hero.
I just called my Hawaii congress peeps, Neil Abercrombie and Mazie Hirono and asked their office to get behind Dennis’ resolution for impeachment. For those in Hawaii their numbers are 808 541 2570 and 808 541 1986.
Anyone have the resolution number?
I just emailed this to my friends, family, and colleagues, many of whom are still inexplicably supporting either Tweedledum, Tweedle…I mean Clinton, Edwards, or Obama, but who, nevertheless, over the years have been as adamant about me concerning the criminal Bush regime and impeachment. As well as opening the investigation of 9/11. I’m hoping this will open their eyes to DK once and for all. If you agree, why not do the same?
Daniel David, ALL impeachment is a winner for the American people, whether there’s conviction by the Senate or not.
Only impeachment (and more ideally, conviction and removal from office) will clear the stench of illegitimacy that this government has created since initially placed into office by a flippant decision made in haste by the highest court in the land. Impeachment is the only way towards fixing this.
Impeachment — through the discovery process — will clearly tell a story about how and why this administration started an aggression in Iraq. It will contain other sub-plots about indefinite detention and torture and the means of repression here at home, including the suppression of dissent. It will make it clear to future administrations that they will not be able to break or impede the constraints of the balanced branches of government, which our founders so necessarily fought for — and for which we should also.
I repeat, ALL impeachment wins. Whether conviction comes to fruition, or not, it’s still a win-win proposition.
Dennis Kucinich is the absolute best person who is running for President of the US. He seems to be also, one of the very few who has actually read and understood the Constitution of the US. Pelosi is nothing but a political animal from a political family - no better than the Bushies or Clintons.
I have contributed to Kucinich’s campaign, and as soon as I get my Social Security check this month, I’m sending him another $10.00. It’s all I can afford.
I have called my congresswoman repeatedly to join in signing on HR333, but with no action. I have explained to her staff that I will be unable to support her for re-election next year since she refuses to do her job.
HOOORY FOR DENNIS. IMPEACH!!!
Waterboard ‘em both, just to make sure we get good actionable intelligence (I know, I know…), then impeach both of their sorry ’simulated drowning’ asses!
In writing, I realize in the main I’m preaching to the choir. The Constitution mentions impeachment several times. It ought not be regarded as a personal assault on Cheney or Bush. That just confuses things. It is the Constitutional method of fixing government when it has been broken, damaged, or abused. My sense is that, threatened with impeachment, the Bush White House would quickly see the error of their ways and agree to operate within the rule of law. The danger in not impeaching is the precedent it will set for whoever, Republican or Democrat, Green or independent, is elected in ‘08. Powers are not easily given up. They must be wrested away. Powers the Bush administration has assumed will be powers future administrations will claim. During the Democratic debates, if the moderators weren’t such wusses, they’d be asking candidates which of the powers the Bush administration has usurped would the candidates renounce as unconstitutional if elected President. Washington’s genius allowed him to understand that the President is not a monarch for four years. Nixon’s folly was he didn’t get it; nor does Cheney. Gravel, Kucinich, and probably Edwards would have no difficulty answering this question. I’m not so sure about the others. I believe Clinton and Obama would flounder about, which is sad for the nation, sad for our future.
Impeachment is too good for those evildoers, Bush and Cheney. They still get to go on with their lives, unlike the innocents who will never see the light of day again.
I had the exact same reaction to this piece as did JJPeter — I hope Kucinich doesn’t board an airplane between now and Tuesday. Why do you think it’s so important to get these mass murderers out of power? They really will stop at nothing to preserve what they’ve gained so far. The only thing Paul Wellstone was doing was running for re-election while speaking truth to power. Truly, if you’re not deeply afraid of these people, you’re not paying attention.
IMPEACH and IMPRISON! The whole Bush cabal. Dennis you are the man! Vote for Dennis Kucinch for US President!
What’s the difference between George Bush and Hugo Chavez? Nothing
Dennis,
you just keep on keeping on with your good humour and tenacity in the face of disrespectful taunts. Some of us hear you and applaud your every effort. It is refreshing to see a clean man having gotten so far. You are our mouthpiece. Don’t ever let them shut you up.
Impeach!!!
This is an entirely necessary process!!! Clinton’s failed impeachment did not spell failure to the Republicans, and that was over lying about a blowjob. This is about wars of aggression, ignorance of international law, and disregard for the United States constitution. Anybody worried about the failure of impeachment needs to realize that if THIS administration cannot be shown the door, than our system is TRUELY broken…and the people will have to fix it.
Dennis Kucinich is, as he has pointed out, mainstream in his beliefs on impeachment, war, and health care. He does not fit in with the Dems because, well, he has a fucking backbone.
I M P E A C H
God is speaking to Dennis Kucinich. He used to speak to Bush but dropped him when he started invading countries and torturing people.
God said impeach and this is what Dennis is calling for.
Impeach them both bush and cheney, bring war crimes against all involved in this administration, convict them and send them to their prison in Cuba. Bush, Cheney Rumsfeld, Rice, the Generals, Gonzalez, Addington, All the Senators and House members that supported and still support these criminals.
Bothers me that certain posters here suggest that it’s all about “Liberals regaining control” of the government… that’s so small minded… what it’s really about it attempting to prevent the CFR/NWO types from taking over the world. Impeaching Cheney and Bush is just a small part of what needs to be done if we’re going to survive the NWO evil plan.
Request a friendly amemndment:
IMPEACH BUSH, IMPALE CHENEY.
First Impeach, try for crimes against the American people, try for war crimes.
After due process convictions,Imprison Bush, IMPALE CHENEY.
Stake anyone?
IMPEACH NOW
IMPEACH NOW
IMPEACH NOW
RESTORE THE RULE OF LAW NOW
RESTORE THE RULE OF LAW NOW
RESTORE THE RULE OF LAW NOW
GO KUCINICH GO
GO KUCINICH GO
GO KUCINICH GO
Destruction of the Constitution
Is destruction of We The People
Dennis K is the ONLY lobbyist We The People have
IMPEACH the entire bush-kabal
money’s in the mail Dennis.
I cannot afford it, but I’m going to scrape up a donation for Dennis Kucinich’s campaign.
Damn Pelosi and all the other Dems who are too cowardly (or too republican) to kick the asses of cheney and bush out of the White House.
Our country is going to hell fast, and that stupid woman continues to thwart the will of the people. She’s as bad as the worst republican.
It’s encouraging to see the surge of support for Dennis here. Now, if only that surge can be repeated, not just on commondreams, but in the American mainstream. It might happen, but if it does it will be because of the power of the internet, and certainly not the Tim Russert-UFO-slandering MSM corporate media you have to cope with down there. Though it’s far from perfect, we have the benefit of a real (not….”sponsored by “Dead Rich Folks”) public broadcaster up here in the CBC.
Thank goodness for Bill Moyer! He’d make a great VP in a Kucinich administration, would he not?
WOOO HOOOOH, Rep. Kucinich, I love you!!!!
I M P E A C H !!!!!!
years from now, when surviving americans look back on this darkest of periods, they will wonder how their countryfolk put up with such a fascist government, in the same way germans looked back and wondered at hitler. kucinich and others will stand out as flickering lights in this mantle of hopelesness. would that other torches spring up all over the land and lead this unfortunate president to an insane asylum, where he belongs!
I am always pleased at the number of comments whenever Kucinich’s name is mentioned on this board.
GO KUCINICH!
and Yes.. IMPEACH THEM BOTH!
I swear the latest bit of stupidity Bush has done is by vetoing neccessary water infrastructure projects.
He says they are wasteful spending. WHAT???
Uh. Bush. Have even been paying attention??? You think war in Iraq and Iran will protect this country yet you let children and adults go without health insurance, you talk about PErsonal responsibility but then you don’t support vital infrasture.
I swear.. we already have the terrorists over here tearing apart our country .. it is YOU Mr Bush..
You are probably doing far more damage than a supposed terrorist could do. You are letting this country fall apart while you give your crony’s big fat tax breaks and bundles of OUR TAX DOLLARS for 100 dollar cases of coke.!!
But you talk about bridge repair and wetlands rebuildint and say that well.. we don’t have the money.
BS
You and BUsh and your entire ilk have to GO!
Ugh!
I was originally thinking Impeachment would be a waste of time.. but I see the folly of my ways. We need to get our country back and these clowns be made an example of!!!
IMPEACH!!!
I’d say that Nancy Pelosi’s re-election is “off the table!”
if the punishment is to fit the crime, then bush and his ENTIRE administration should be tortured and shot!!! don’t impeach them, kill them.
Give “em Hell, Dennis! Way to go!
Impeach Cheney before it is too late.
Dennis Kucinich is the man.
God bless and protect you Dennis.
impeach!
It is great that Dennis is standing up for honesty and justice, but the trouble in the US is when anyone stands up for what is right they stand alone, with everyone else hiding in the background cheering them on, while the evil people have the media and money backing them.
Let’s just hope Rep. Kucinich doesn’t succumb to a sudden illness or die in a misterious airplane accident between now and Tuesday.
Daniel David - You don’t appear to understand much about American constitutional theory.
Impeachment proceedures imply NO AUTOMATIC ‘intention’ to remove an official from office (tho Bush/Cheney surely deserve that.)
Impeachment is simply a formal hearing process that begins in the House, to determine if there are sufficient grounds for the House to [at the end of such investigation) issue a formal indictment — which then goes to the Senate for fullly-formal ‘trial and adjudication.’
In other words, Impeachment is simply an investigation at the outset, which theoretically goes nowhere legally, but has potentially-huge efficacy in adducing and collating courtroom-verified facts for public/legal (and yes, equally-thoretically, political) informational purposes.
But Daniel: Squint your eyes and see clearly what is happening to your country, with an illegally-acting Executive and a compliant pseudo-opposition party.
How can you claim to care about all the lies and ethically-outrageous and unconstitutional actions that Bush & Co. have palpably taken since 2001, and yet oppose merely a formal investigation of this administraton by the lawmaking branch of government?
Unless you’re some kind of crypto-shill for the fatal status-quo, I can not comprehend your reasonings.
I think you need to read/re-read the Federalist Papers on the subject of Impeachment. The Impeachment mechanism wasn’t intended to easily let the congress or the sovereign electors destabilize the very (tripartite) structure which the Framers themselves devised.
The Framers intended impeachment to be, instead, a series of sequentially-deepening legal steps that congress, in the name of The People, could undertake when and if the Executive (or any other federal official) abused the Seperation of Powers clause, and/or acted with gross malfeasance, and/or acted with provably illegal intent — without normal consequence.
TO REPEAT: Impeachment is a vital part of the US constitution, intended to empower congress to initially restrain (and provide for removal-of, if necessary) specifically-positioned, illegally-acting federal officials.
I ask you again, Daniel (presuming that you understand your own country’s constitution): On what grounds can you oppose such an investigation of Bush, now — given the massive and credible, however informal, evidence against the current Executive?
Up until now, Daniel, I understood you to be just a good old Democrat, opining idealistically from past expectations of a nobler government, a nobler party enworldment.
But your continuing refusal to acknowledge, even theoretically, that resolution of the present political situation in America may require something deeper than your loyalty to a long-corrupt Democrat political party and a clearly out-of-control Republican administration, marks you, for me, now finally, as either blindly sentimental or craftily disingenuous.
If you are sincere and actually well-meaining in your stubborness, it pains me all the more that I must respond to you this way.
Keep in mind, folks, here is what we are up against:
http://www.sonic.net/~taryfast/destruction.html
Very nicely said, eduardov
-
“flickering lights in this mantle of hopelessness”.
And may those flickering lights, in time, spread, grow and burn brightly enough to illuminate our darkness.
abelito - Please don’t say that! Think positive, please!!
I think Daniel David is actually Nancy Peloosi in virtual drag.
Go Dennis! I think I’ll send him another contribution.
Impeachment yes but these mass murderers should be tried in the World Court as well. The only difference between Bush/Cheney in comparison with those brought to date before this court is that they have killed or destroyed the lives of many more people. They clearly lied to the American public to bring about this unjust war, caused the violent death of an estimated 1.2 million people, 4 million more displaced and a deeply divided country in ruins. And now both Democrats and Republicans spend there time talking about supporting our boys over there. The harsh reality is that these boys believing that they were off on some noble mission and obeying their leaders have used America’s massive fire power to bring about this disaster. It’s time to leave.
Support our boys by bringing them home.
Yes Dennis, IMPEACH the Bastards. Can’t understand why Watergate and Clinton’s naughty behaviour warranted impeachment proceedings but lying to commit mass murder is “off the table”
Daniel David is wrong. We will clap even if the Resolution 333 doesn’t pass. Kucinich is the only politician brave enough to press on in the face of a regimented congress. He is showing the classic definition of courage and I hope he gets more support on Capitol Hill than is being expected. I hope he succeeds. But if he doesn’t, he still has my applause.
If they don’t support the resolution, we’ll know who to vote out of office.
I M P E A C H !!!!!!
If I keep reloading Google with ‘Kucinich impeach’ in the search field will this news appear on the main news page?
IMPEACH!
Bring the war criminal, liar, deceiver, mass murderer, transgressor and contemptor of the Constitution to the justice of an impeachment trial!
And after he has been impeached, send the dirtbag to the International Court of Justice at The Hague.
I salute you, Congressman Kucinich!
You are the only American left in Congress. The other members of this dismal body are merely dreary servants of the military-industrial-Congressional complex.
Gandhi, excellent points.
IMPEACH . . . .
BEFORE IT’S TOO LATE . . . .
KUCINICH — THE ONLY REAL CANDIDATE — !!!!
I called my Congressional rep’s offices back with the resolution number (HR333) and left them with a pledge that their boss would not get my support in the next election if they didn’t get behind Dennis’ draft.
Just like the Dennis Kucinich supporters have always said;
There is someone in Congress who has already grown some.
IMPEACH
I - Idiot
M - Megalomaniac
P - President
E - Excretes
A - Anti
C - Constitutional
H - Havoc
I have let Congresswoman Ellen Tauscher know that my vote for her again ‘absolutely’ depends on her supporting Dennis Kucinich on this one. Done deal!
Chrono—Thank you for some deep and patriotic reasons why impeachment needs to happen. Daniel David, you have been offered much more respect for your stated views in his/her post than perhaps you deserve. You are being given the benefit of the doubt. This is not about winning—this is not about political calculations—this is about a real and vital commitment to the very principles upon which our Constitution was written. The USofA is increasingly despised in the world. Surely, if for no other reason than to show the world that not everyone in this country supports this evil cabal, the impeachment proceedings must go forward. And if you honestly think that if this Administration gets off without being called to account, that it won’t set a chilling precedent for future Administrations, then you are either hopelessly naive, or you have not been paying attention for the last 30 years. We are in deep shit, my man, so anyone who doesn’t pick up a shovel, is responsible for the strench the rest of us live with.
If Kucinich could always have done this under the House rules, why did he let this bill sit doing nothing for six months. I think I read he originally filed this in April. Why wait till now to push it?
Here’s why … the Democrats have been playing ‘run out the clock’ on this one. An impeachment process takes time to have hearings, complete the investigation, vote in committee, debate in the House, trial in the Senate, etc. So there was obviously going to be some point where the amount of time left in the Bush\Cheney term meant that it was too late to do this.
I’m guessing the Democratic Party gave Kucinich clearence to do his little show on the floor of the House. Enough time has run off the clock now. And remember, for all his rebel posturing, Kucinich is a loyal party member who endorses the party candidates.
And why is he only doing this against Cheney? Why not Bush? Even if a miracle happens and this succeeds, we leave Bush in office and if Cheney’s wielding power behind the scenes he can do that from a house in Georgetown if he wants. This criminal administration would still be intact and in power with what Kucinich is doing.
A Democrat doing too little too late … why does that sound familiar?
‘papiowhisperer’ — how much money did you give your congresscritter in the last campaign? If it wasn’t at least in the 5 digits range, they are probably laughing their asses off at your threat not to support them in the next election. Are you under some delusion that your congresscritter actually cares what you think if you aren’t a big donor?
I know he won’t go along with it, as Don Young, our Representative here in Alaska, is quite conservative and old school, but I felt it was important to make my voice heard, if nothing else…
“Congressman Young,
I have been a resident of Alaska for just over two years now, and am proud of my decision to move to the Last Frontier. I feel I have finally found my home (I also moved from Chico, CA). And as my new representative in Congress, please accept my thanks for your public service.
However, I am writing you today to urge you to consider Representative Kucinich’s upcoming impeachment proceedings against Vice President Cheney. Given the mountains of indefensible, unarguable evidence depicting in every detail exactly how he, President Bush, former Secretary Rumsfeld, Secretary Rice, Mr. Wolfowitz and others so repeatedly and cruelly acted directly counter to the Constitution of the United States, it is unconscionable not to support Mr. Kucinich’s appeal.
Americans are waking up, after years of sleeping while on the job, to the wicked and harmful machniations of this merciless administration. Please consider the facts, which in so many cases are irrefutable, rather than the anti-democratic specter of political expediency.
I will be watching your reaction to Representative Kucinich’s heroic and patriotic maneuver. I hope you make the right decision.
Thank you for your time.”
Yes, the time has come to open up the discussion on the Floor in Congress and get Impeachment into the Record. Gravel did it with the Pentagon Papers, even though he had little, if no support from his colleagues because they didn’t want to look ridiculous. Not much has changed there, has it? But history has revealed that by exposing the deceitful and unscrupulous people who plan and execute wars like childish board games, positive change can take place and it helped to stop the “American War”. (Interesting how America is so good at starting nasty intractible military messes that are named for the countries they destroy. But for the countries that the US invades, to those people, it still is an American WAR.) Unfortunately, not enough military/political/money grubbing heads rolled for that horrible mess in SE Asia. And here we go again; another disasterous foreign policy blunder that has destroyed another country, killed over a million people, looted a treasury, divided a Congress, and on ad infinitum. All of this and more has been based on the unscrupulous ideas of a few political elites who in league with financiers profit from the killing and destruction just so that they can reign supreme over the New World Order.
Impeachment is not the answer, but it is a positive first step in uncovering the dark and sinister world of despicable treachery that is part of this country’s history and it’s ill-fated future if we don’t make these criminals/Bush regime accountable. Read Elizabeth Holtzman’s book “Impeachment of George W. Bush”, for inspiration.
I agree with Jefferson’s Guardian’s statement that All Impeachment Wins. I believe that just starting the process will have a cathartic effect that will flush out real patriots (that’s us, too) and the treasonous bastards/bitches who are nothing more than sleazy careerists who want to establish their image in history.
There surely are among those within the regime who have a conscience and the courage who will testify during those hearings and investigations, if it ever gets to that point. But only if there is a Justice Department that is truly independent and not part of the spin to win camp. Mukasey may not be the best man for the job…..get your Congress person to oppose that man’s confirmation.
Perhaps the reason the majority of Dems aren’t taking up impeachment; or correcting the imbalance between the three branches of government; or protecting our civil liberties is because they hope that they will inherit the executive power that this administration has carved out for itself for their own political agenda. A kind of Winner takes all. “Power corrupts, but absolute power corrupts absolutely.”
We have power also. Kucinich has always been on the right track. I voted for him the last time he ran in the Primary and I will campaign for him again. Every time I hear someone say that they believe what he says, “But he doesn’t stand a chance.” I say to that person, “If everyone who says that votes for him anyway, he/we will stand a chance.” But maybe it won’t or shouldn’t be on the Democratic ticket. So tell those people who won’t support Kucinich because he isn’t electible to vote for him anyway.
Thank you all for your comments. I feel fortunate to be among you. Let’s lobby our Congressional Reps hard for impeachment. Thank you to my Rep. Sam Farr. Although he may not be thoroughly convinced that Impeachment stands a chance, he signed on anyway.
You shouldn’t accuse Daniel David of being a fake. He isn’t.
He is the voice of the moderate-centrist Hillary/Pelosi mainstream of the Democratic Party. Hang principles, just grab power.
Thank you Dennis Kucinich. IMPEACH!!!
I M P E A C H i m p e A c h i m p e a C H I M P !
I
I M P E A C H !
Impeach Cheney First!
Common Sense!
Dennis Kucinich will deserve a Nobel Peace Prize!
ChronoSynclastic,
Thanks for a very thoughtful post with tones of kindness and civility, even in profound disagreement with things I have written.
I agree that several of the actions of Bush/Cheney are precise examples of why the concept of impeachment was put in the Constitution. I agree that a thorough investigation is warranted. I agree that Bush/Cheney have sought to usurp too much power into their offices–out of the intended balance of a separation of powers.
Impeachment IS one avenue we can take to address all this. That’s my pro-impeach side.
It’s troubling that Dennis Kucinich introduced #333 several months ago and has only been able to attract about two dozen co-sponsors out of 434 possible. This is not a “growing” movement among fellow Congressmen.
Much of what ought to be presented as evidence in a trial is classified, possibly so highly that Bush will simply refuse to produce it upon subpoena, calling the bluff of the process, appealing (probably successfully) to the public that the Dems are just trying to endanger national security for political purposes. They might test in the Supreme Court–and guess who is running that show! Even if trial comes off, then comes the Senate vote that fails. Then Bush/Cheney tell the voters that something awful has happened while the Dems were pursuing a grandstanding distraction. Then the election of 2008, where Hillary (or whatever nominee) is squarely blamed in a 30-sec ad every 15 minutes.
Then, the voting public (which indeed is not always too smart, as someone noted above) feels sorry for the way Republicans have been dragged in mud, and elects Giuliani and a bunch of Repug legislators out of spite.
That’s my fuggedaboutit side on impeachment. It’s not that I don’t believe they deserve to be impeached. It’s that I know we can’t convict with 67 Senator votes, and I suspect in accordance with Murphy’s Law that something bigger will go wrong and then cause a loss of much more significance in 2008 election.
And, for those who hate hearing from me, I, too, am aware I don’t “know it all” and could be wrong about this. But this is a discussion site, so we “discuss” with vigor.
There are obviously many of us behind Dennis. I will contibute the maximum ammount to his campaign as I did in 2004. (I think limit is $2300 this go around). He is NOT going away. Keep supporting him and get the tide (mass of humanity) turned towards the light.
COMarc November 2nd, 2007 8:37 pm, yeah you are probably right I gave them nothing. I’ve pretty much gave up on Democracy, now and till I die. I gave a bunch of money to DK and visualize him and Liz as First Couple. Yeah, I know not lot of help that is, but I try to do the best I can w/ what I have.
Yes, we need to go ahead and try impeachment - even if it fails, at least it’s a step forward in getting back some dignity and self-respect. We need to let this administration know their behavior is unacceptable.
Daniel David,
“Much of what ought to be presented as evidence in a trial is classified, possibly so highly that Bush will simply refuse to produce it upon subpoena, calling the bluff of the process, appealing (probably successfully) to the public that the Dems are just trying to endanger national security for political purposes. They might test in the Supreme Court–and guess who is running that show! Even if trial comes off, then comes the Senate vote that fails. Then Bush/Cheney tell the voters that something awful has happened while the Dems were pursuing a grandstanding distraction. Then the election of 2008, where Hillary (or whatever nominee) is squarely blamed in a 30-sec ad every 15 minutes.”
Thanks for showing what your thinking is, rather than just mirroring the MSM. I’m not sure I agree here - for one thing, this is politics, and what matters is people showing some backbone here, all the more so since people already are on their side.
In terms of the process dying in the Senate - well, I doubt that they would want to stand opposed to a well-coordinated campaign for impeachment. I know that the votes are weak right now, but you seem to think that the process is written in stone, rather than it being exactly what “process” means. I think your fears here are mostly for naught.
As for impeachment itself - well, I tend to agree with the posters who say that really what needs to happen is criminal proceedings, either nationally or internationally. I also think that there’s more than a few democrats who are complicit in the violations of the administration. Compromising on torture and erosion of human rights is not simply “the way the system works,” it’s a set of machinations that are Vichy-like in their scope.
Cleveland Rocks!!
Cheney’s impeachment may not be possible in our oh-so conservative, careful, fearful nation, but the proceedings might distract him enough to avoid an invasion of Iran, and slow a plethora of other nefarious projects he has in process, so let’s go.
And 90% of our global neighbors will be thrilled.
“In whatever arena of life one may meet the challenge of courage, whatever may be the sacrifices he faces if he follows his conscience – the loss of his friends, his fortune, his contentment, even the esteem of his fellow men – each man must decide for himself the course he will follow. The stories of past courage can define that ingredient – they can teach, they can offer hope, they can provide inspiration. But they cannot supply courage itself. For this each man must look into his own soul.”
John F. Kennedy, Profiles in Courage
I nominate Dennis Kucinich for this years Profile in Courage Award and the Democratic nomination for President of the USA.
Since all the praise and accolades that I could have thought have been said so I’ll say it in about the only way left. If I were woman I’d roll with him every night! A great man among men!
Go Dennis! Nail these belicose buffoons!
IMPEACH the leaders of the Bush Administration crime syndicate.
133 comments so far, now that a statement unto its self…
Impeach!
—If not because horses were stolen, to insure that horses not be stolen.
egon (not a bot) fawlkner
IMPEACH NOW!!!!!
God Bless and keep Congressman Dennis Kucinich, the last Real American hero! Anybody that says that this man cannot be taken seriously as a Presidential candidate does not know what he or she is talking about. He is offering REAL solutions to REAL problems that CAN realistically be done to restore American integrity around the world and among our own people.
From the United States Constitution, Article II, Section 4: “The President, Vice President and all civil Officers of the United States, shall be removed from Office on Impeachment for, and Conviction of, Treason, Bribery, or other high Crimes and Misdemeanors.”
If Clinton can be impeached for a mere dalliance with an intern, then what the heck is keeping Congress from impeaching the whole bloody lot of PNAC NeoCons who’ve stolen our government and turned it into a tool for their own narrow agenda, and in the process, have broken far too many Constitutional laws to enumerate? Why are they dragging their feet? Who or what are they afraid of, anyway? Do the Bush/Cheney cabal scare them so badly that they’ve lost their collective spines?
Dennis Kucinich is the only one who gets it, the only one with enough cojones to bring impeachment back to the table. I’m sure it won’t succeed but it’s the gesture that counts. It’s the sticking-the-neck-out bravery that separates him from the rest of the pack and has been the story of his life, since his days as Boy Mayor of Cleveland when he had a showdown with the banks to spare MuniLight (and living just a stone’s throw down-state from Cleveland and growing up watching Cleveland channels 3, 5 and 8, you can bet I heard a LOT about that in those days during the nightly dinner time news broadcasts!)
What Dennis is doing now is the story of his life. He’s always done the right thing to much ridicule from others. But he has the courage of his convictions and the rare ability to speak truth to power, and that is why I can say, proudly and honestly, NOBODY BUT DENNIS IN ‘08!!!! Please support this amazing man’s run for President and tell everyone you know to do the same. Have them read his books and go to his web site:
http://www.dennis4president.com/
Send him money. Campaign for him wherever you go. Be a MySpace or FaceBook friend of his. Wear buttons, shirts, caps supporting his presidency. Put a bumper sticker on your car. Get his name out there for everyone to see. Just do whatever it takes to get him elected.
GO, DENNIS, GO!!! IMPEACH NOW!!!
I’ll make a prediction here, followed by a course of action.
The impeachment effort will fail, there won’t be enough votes. The Rethugs and crypto-neocons in the Dims still collectively form the majority.
However!
It’ll be useful to sort out who’s who among the Dims. The broader progressive community, and the Democratic wing of the Democratic Party, must harp endlessly against the Dem enablers, from now unto perpetuity, those who would not support Kucinich’s sensible proposition here.
Again, I assume this will fail. But let’s use it as a litmus test to root out the crypto-neocons. They have no business among the “opposition”.
It’s bad enough that we’re limited to two right-of-center capitalistic/crooked-class/elitist/m.i.c. parties. But at the very least let’s use the record here as proof that some Democrats more properly belong in the other party, and ought not to receive the party’s endorsement next time they are up for re-election.
If impeachment hearings are held, the media will be forced to fully disclose the findings, which will shock and disgust almost everyone. Support for impeachment will grow, and support for candidates who have supported, and continue to support, the administration’s odious agenda will diminish. Nancy Pusillanimous and the rest of the craven Congress must do their duty, as there is abundant evidence of high crimes and misdemeanors. It is the only step that can restore domestic and international confidence in American government and reduce the increasing animosity in the Muslim world that fuels terrorism.
COMarc,
First of all, it’s a resolution (HR 333), not a bill. As such, he’s needed cosigners, which he didn’t have many of when he introduced it in April. Even now, he has less than 30, but it has been slowly growing.
And why resort to the parlimentary procedure now? I think he’s getting a little desperate, to be quite frank. I don’t mean that in a critical way, because by now you obviously know I’m a big supporter of his, and have disagreed with you in the past as regards your theory that he’s either knowingly manipulating progressive voters to keep them in the ranks, or just a useful idiot.
I think he’s desperate because he sees what’s coming down the pike with Cheney, Bush, and Rice doing everything possible to provoke war with Iran before they leave office. This measure should be some indication that they are much, much closer to achieving that end now in early November than they were in April(Check out the related story on this site about Syria). You don’t pull manuevers on the House floor like this UNLESS you’re willing to bet the pot that the people will join to lobby their own recalcitrant representatives to join you. Normally, you’d go through the usual channels of gathering cosponsors until you could get a bill introduced into a committee, which then has to be debated, amended, debated some more, and then voted upon and approved before it can even make it to the floor. Kucinich is stepping on the toes of his own party leadership doing this, and it stands ZERO chance of working unless all of us are on the phone tomorrow to OUR reps demanding they support him.
I think he’s desperate because the situation is desperate. Do you disagree?
And I’m sorry, man, because I enjoy some of your posts alot, but I don’t think you could be any more wrong about DK’s motives. I’ll accept the criticism that he may be tilting at windmills(and me, too), but to think he’s really doing all this in service to the DLC, and the CorpoDems… no way. He’d have to be getting SOMETHING out of that deal if he’d in fact made it besides the grief and ridicule he’s received, even from progressives…
Impeach impeaCH IMpeach impeaCHIMPpeach impea CHIMP each
Impeach the chimp
GO DENNIS! IMPEACH THE CRAZY F—ers! And all you who support him, give a little to Dennis every paycheck - $25, $50, whatever you can manage. I have been doing it for a long time and I can say with confidence that it brings very good karma!
“Will it take a mass uprising?”
Yes.
What gets me is that so many of you haven’t realized it yet.
“Despite this groundswell of opposition to the unconstitutional conduct of office, Vice President Cheney continues to violate the U.S. Constitution by insisting the power of the executive branch is supreme…”
Let’s take a good look at this adjective (supreme) and its suggested meanings:
SUPERLATIVE: Excludes the possibility of superiors, especially in relation to “commendatory” qualities. They certainly believe everything they do is commendatory, but can you in all honesty name one commendatory quality displayed by this adminstration?
TRANSCENDENT: A realization of the “ideal”. Only a warped mind would consider perpetual war to be ideal. Sadly, discernment doesn’t seem to register within their irrational and deffective transcendent pattern of realization.
PREEMINENT: Suggests going beyond all others in distinction or eminence. Is there any question that this Administration is the most distinct for achieving its demands from Congress……like approval for the use of torture or the wiretapping of U.S. citizens?
INCOMPARABLE: Suggests the impossibilty of being equaled. What normal person would argue that this Administration has been equaled for owning the greatest number of psycho-sociopaths in the history of this country?
There is nothing supreme (in the God-like sense) about this executive branch!
“But, Mr. Kucinich knows and we know it will not get very far”
To willybill : Check out the biographies of William Wilberforce ,Harriet Beecher Stowe , Susan B.Anthony , Florence Nightingale , Mao Tse Deung (sp?),Adolf Hitler ,Nelson Mandela . If all these and others thought their plans ” would not get very far “, the world would be a very different place .Let’s take them in order :
1. There still would be human slavery in England.
2. There still would be slavery in the USA.
3. Women would not be eligible to vote.
4. Stables would still be used for hospitals.
5. China would still be a colony of USA
6. There would have been no WW 2
7. Aparthied would still be operational in South Africa.
Do you think that these are a few good reasons for not giving up the quest ?
IMPEACH!
I sent Dennis a check, too.
Reading all the comments here…so great.
I email my Congress person every week to support HR 333..but I may increase it to daily!
COMarc: Why don’t you go take a flying leap off a fucking pier, you traitorous fuck!!! I’m ashamed to live in the same state with all your goddamn negativity!!!
AND, Shehan should run against Polosi and defeat her even if there is impeachment. get polosi out!@
The majority of Americans support impeachment of both Cheney and Bush. The tactics of both the Republicans AND the Democrats, as well as the corporation monopolized MSM, involve IGNORING what citizens actually want - on many issues. They would all relegate the voices of the American people to the category of ‘unimportant’. This has been demonstrated time and time again.
By caving to the pundits, polls, and politicians, we only validate and strengthen their position that what citizens desire is irrelevant.
In any situation, speculation about the results of potential actions is, at best, hypothetical. Further, it doesn’t take a rocket scientist to understand that the list of hypothetical possibilities will rarely include what will actually happen. There is always the unexpected.
To submit to the naysayers hypothesis is to relinquish one’s own voice.
If impeachment proceedings do move forward, it is VERY POSSIBLE that the electorate will become galvanized in support of the only candidate whose position on most issues actually does reflect their wishes, leading to a nomination victory for Kucinich.
As I have said before, I believe that Dennis Kucinich may be the ONLY candidate who actually can beat the Republicans. That is perhaps why he is marginalized and given little air time - because he is the one they are really afraid of.
Impeachment proceedings may very well derail and distract the Bush admin. so heavily as to be entirely effective and lead to a populous groundswell of support for Kucinich.
The republicans want the democrats to tow the party line and nominate Clinton, who they believe they can beat. The idea that it is better to support a ‘winnable’ democrat, designated so by the MSM, plays directly into the hands of the republicans. Believe me, Guiliani would much rather run against Clinton than Kucinich.
The only winnable democrat IS Kucinich, IMHO. Impeachment proceedings may make him more electable and start the derailment process of the repubs in earnest. And, like others have said, either way, this is about the truth and justice being served, most importantly.
The would have to prove Bush lied about anything/ All of the evidence is destroeyed like his armed service records.
IMPEACH! And vote Kucinich!
The House has a public seating area, right? FILL IT UP!
THE PERJORATIVE OF SAYING THAT DENNIS ” will not get very far” SHOWS HOW SOPHOMORIC OR SOPHO-MORONIC SOME PEOPLE CAN BE! RONALD WHITE HAS THE RIGHT ATTITUDE. WHAT IF MAHATMA GANDI WOULD HAVE HAD USED THIS DEFEATIST REASONING—INDIA WOULD VERY LIKELY STILL BE UNDER BRITISH RULE. EVERYONE, PLEASE SUPPORT THE MAN WITH THE COURAGE. A REAL PATRIOTIC AMERICAN.
It is amazing how “efficiently” the media manages to ignore Dennis Kucinich, that is, until they manage to come across what they think might be a tidbit that could cause DK some embarrassment (i.e. the “UFO” thing at Shirley McLean’s place). What kind of a conspiracy is going on here? It seems to me that the media (and their big moneyed backers in corporatocracy) might just be so afraid of Dennis (and we “common people” who see in him the hope needed for this country and the world) that they are working harder and harder to get the point across that he HAS to be portrayed as “unelectable.”More and more of us need to be like