BLAGOJEVICH IMPEACHED
“By a historic vote of 114-1, the Illinois House of Representatives at 10:27 a.m. today impeached Gov. Rod Blagojevich. The vote came after several lawmakers railed on the governor and urged citizens to not judge the state of Illinois based on the actions of its governor. The unprecedented move sets the stage for a Senate trial on whether he should be thrown out of office for corruption and abuse of power. Blagojevich has scheduled a 2 p.m. news conference.
The historic and unprecedented vote on impeachment in the House today is evident throughout the Capitol building.
Throngs of media, both Illinois and national, have TV cameras, photographers and reporters documenting the House vote.
The visitor gallery overlooking the House floor, which on a normal session day can have many empty seats, is packed with people. Security guards and ushers are keeping people seated and quiet throughout the debate.
Even lawmakers themselves are aware this isn’t an ordinary session day. Normally, legislators are talking with each other and not paying much attention when bills are being debated. But today, everyone is quiet, seated and watching and listening closely as each of their colleagues discusses why Gov. Rod Blagojevich should be impeached.
The dress code is all business today, with suit coats, ties and formal dress prevalent. The mood is solemn, no joking or ribbing between lawmakers.
Legislators are also pleading with the watching public not to lump them in with Blagojevich’s problems.
“Please don’t judge all of us based on the actions of this corrupt governor,” said Rep. Susana Mendoza, D-Chicago.
Rep. Jack Franks, D-Woodstock, strongly urged his colleagues to take it upon themselves not to let corruption take hold again.
“We we no longer tolerate the culture of corruption that has seized our government,” Franks said. It’s our duty to clean up the mess and to stop the freak show which has become Illinois government.”“
