Impeach Jesse White?

As a follow up to previous statements this writer has made regarding events in Illinois, it appears very clear there have been three official government actions so far, two of which are in accordance with the law and one of which is not.

The Illinois Supreme Court was absolutely correct to deny Lisa Madigan's attempt to oust the Governor.

Governor Blagojevich had an absolute duty to appoint a replacement for President-Elect Obama's vacant Senate seat. See 10 ILCS 5/25-8. This was not an option. Read it. "When a vacancy shall occur…the Governor shall make a temporary appointment…"

Jesse White has violated his oath of office as Secretary of State. See 15 ILCS 305/5: "It shall be the duty of the Secretary of State: (1) To countersign and affix the seal of the state to all commissions required by law to be issued by the Governor and (2) To make a register of all appointments by the Governor, specifying the person appointed, the office conferred, the date of the appointment, etc."

So far, there are very serious allegations pending against our Governor which, if true, would more than justify his impeachment.

And, so far, Jesse White has clearly violated his oath of office. This is not an allegation, it is admitted fact. I call for his impeachment!

When all is said and done, someone must ensure that the rule of law prevails over grandstanding and allegations. If not, I want to speak with John Grisham. What a great story line! A mere allegation is all it takes to side step the Constitutions of both the United States and Illinois. Just think of the possibilities of that novel!

Tad Armstrong
Edwardsville