John Edwards...indicted on criminal charges! Politician denies wrongdoing!

Vanity be thy name?





After weeks of speculation, the Government has now moved forward and indicted Presidential Candidate John Edwards on six  counts of violating campaign finance laws, making false statements to Government Officials, and engaging in a conspiracy to protect his candidacy for the White House.

The last charge is the crux of it, really!

Yesterday, Mr. Edwards stood on the Courthouse steps and solemnly admitted to reporters that what he did was "wrong", but vigorously noted for the record that he did not knowingly intend to break the law.

And, that is the bone of contention, in a nutshell.

The Government must prove "intent" on the part of the 57-year-old politician to make their allegations stick.

Because Edwards is known as a competent trial attorney, legal analysts are quick to point out, that Edwards' comments are a sure indication that he is now laying the groundwork for his defense in court(in the event the trial commences on-or-about July 11th as announced at press time).

Edwards intends to vigorously argue in court that he tried to hide an affair (and a love child born out of wedlock) to protect his family.

In sharp contrast, the Government has taken the position that the Edwards defense is merely a smokescreen.

The prosecutors intends to prove that Mr. Edwards knowingly and willfully utilized campaign funds to hide his affair (to avoid a nasty scandal) and to protect his bid for the Presidential ticket.

The funds in question were allegedly gifts from two supporters - and as such - were not used inappropriately, according to a spokesperson for Mr. Edwards.

John Edwards is characterizing the misstep as a unfortunate error in judgment which led him down a slippery slope.

But, ultimately, Edwards does not believe that his actions warrant criminal prosecution.

The response back from the Government was crystal clear.

"As the indictment shows, we will not permit candidates for high office to abuse their special ability to access the coffers of their political supports to circumvent our election laws," Assistant Attorney General Larry Breuer, who is head of the Justice Department's criminal division.

Gregory Craig - a former White House attorney (who handled the Bill Clinton impeachment proceedings!) - lamented that the prosecution against his client was "unprecedented".

"No one has ever been charged, either civilly or criminally, with the claims that have been brought against Sen. Edwards today. No one would have known, or should have known, or could have been expected to know, that these payments would be treated as or should be considered as campaign contributions. And, there was no way Senator Edwards knew that fact either," he asserted to reporters over the past twenty-four hours.

Court papers reflect that the monies in question were solicited and accepted from two individuals - Bunny Mellon (a 100-year-old heiress who contributed $725,000) and Fred Baron (a former National Campaign Finance Manager - now deceased - who coughed up approximately $200,000) - with the help of a trusted aid by the name of Andrew Young.

Mr. Young is expected to be a key witness at the trial.

Young's attorney - David Geneson - told reporters that his client had "no deal" with the Government.  But, Young was apparently promised in writing that if he continued to cooperate with the investigation and subsequent criminal proceedings, that the Government would not prosecute him personally.

Of course, this has caused some experts in the election law arena to cry foul.

Normally such violations are handled with civil penalties and result in fines and requirements that candidates repay the money.

In fact, six weeks ago, a former Chairman for the Federal Election Committee - Scott E. Thomas - met in private with prosecutors to try to convince them not to go forward with the pending criminal proceedings.

"I do not believe that there is any prior case that states that the conduct at issue in the Edwards matter or even conduct substantially similar to it , constitutes a violation of the statute," Thomas argued vigorously (but to no avail).

Which begs the question.

Is there a witch hunt underfoot?

If so, who is behind it?

News at 11!

http://www.thetattler.biz





Bunny Mellon & John Edwards

Sarah Palin...Hurricane Gustav bites VP hopeful in the a**!

Because of the strengthening force of Hurricane Gustav, Republicans were forced to take precaution, and scale back their schedule for the convention underway in the twin cities.

An appearance by George Bush was cancelled, for starters.

As a result, it looks like Sarah Palin's "moment in the sun" is going to be a big "wash out".

That's quite ironic, when you consider the VP hopeful's views on the subject of global warming.

Palin alleges that the disturbing trend in climate change is not "man-made".

However, in recent days, scientists have noted that the fingerprint of global warming on the strongest storms - including Gustav - is becoming clearer with more research each new day.

Looks like Hurricane Gustav just jumped up and bit Palin on her ignorant a**!

Karma, baby, Karma!

Sarah Palin...extremist views trouble for McCain!

Palin breeders...

A couple of days ago I penned a post noting that Sarah Palin may lose her bid for VP because of her ignorance about global warming.

As usual, a couple of readers who responded "anonymously", demonstrated their inability to read and comprehend English.

I was not suggesting that her stance on the topic of "global warming" in-of-itself would turn voters away - but rather - her "ignorance" about the scientific facts which clearly establish the woman is "stupid".

Do American voters really want someone dumber than Dan Quayle holing up on Pennsylvania Avenue in these troubling times?

Notwithstanding, her views on the subject do - however - rustle up one more strike against her among a few she has racked up.

For example, her position on abortion is skewered.

While many are inclined to support a candidate who is opposed to abortion - the fact that the Ice Queen won't budge in the event of a rape or birth arising from incest - underscores what an extremist she is.

A hard-core nut case, in fact.

Meanwhile, I expect that she'll continue to spread her legs and plop out babies 'til doomsday.

No, Palin is not educated about birth control, either!

Speaking of education - the mother of five - is entertaining the lofty idea of teaching "creationism" in schools.

Is the subject matter to be foisted on the students in a Bible-style study group?

Or - will there be a scientific approach to the material - along the lines of those courses that broach the topic of Darwinism in learning institutions already?

By the way, Sarah, will these fire-side chats be from an exclusive Christian point of view?

Or, will the curriculum you've mapped out include perspectives on other religions such as Judaism and Buddhism?

I expect there will be a chapter on Mormonism, too. How about Scientology?

In the event Palin is keen on discussing the issues in detail - well - I'm sure voters will be all ears.

Since the Vice Presidential hopeful is from a backwater neck-of-the-woods, her reluctance to recognize "gay partnerships" doesn't surprise many, either.

I expect Palin's image of a gay man is the stereotypical one, after all.

Correct me if I'm wrong - but I expect in your mind's eye, Sarah - the local town fag is a hairdresser with a limp wrist who toils away eight hours a day to make split ends meet.

No matter.

You're perceived as a red-neck, gun-toting, environment-trasher - who prays on Sunday - and stabs friends, business associates, and neighbours in the back the rest of the week.

Why do I say that?

After Palin was announced as McCain's running mate, reporters from various news organization scrambled to get the "goods" on her.

According to a couple of journalists, Ms. Palin is known to be quite a mean and vindictive person.

After she clawed her way to the top - those who crossed her along the treacherous climb - suffered dire consequences afterwards.

Palin sounds like a real cu**, doesn't she?

In the event she lands in the White House, McCain's handlers will have to keep foreign leaders out of her stormy way, especially around that "time" of the month.

With her mean streak, in a testy moment, she's bound to push the panic button and blow us all to kingdom-come.

But, she doesn't just vent her anger on humans.

Palin actually sued the Federal Government in a sick self-serving effort to wrangle polar bears off of the endangered species list.

Yup, she's a real Christian, alright.

A hypocrite all the way!

Her ties to the "oil industry" (her hubbie works for BP Oil) may also pose a serious conflict of interest down the rocky political road ahead.

Frankly, in my opinion, McCain needs his head examined.

His choice of Palin for a side-kick was quite a reach.

Even for a man who is inclined to remain in Iraq for the next hundred years!

Barack Obama...chooses Joe Biden as VP. No, not a yes man!

Yeah, I'm a backdoor man...

If anything, I was surprised that Barack Obama elected to reveal his choice for Vice President before the National Democratic Convention rang up the curtain next week.

This week's controversial mud-slinging with John McCain may have played a part in it!

No matter.

Biden comes as a welcome choice to moi.

But, when the mainstream press made mention of his name about two days ago as possible running mate, I was surprised as heck. After all, I didn't realize the Obama team was even considering the old windbag.

But, when it was announced on the sly today that the choice was made - and that the candidate was not a "yes man" - I figured right off the bat it was going to be Biden!

Some have been theorizing that Barack needed a solid candidate on the ticket that had a proven record of "good works" and one that Americans trusted and respected in a myriad of voting sectors around the country.

Yeah, Biden's the man, alright.

After all, he's well-versed in foreign policy and on defense issues.

At sixty-five years of age, he's also a seasoned pro.

For the record, it should be noted that "Joe" has twice-sought a slot at the White House during the course of his long, distinguished, and illustrious career.

In his roles as Chairman of the Foreign Relations Committee and head of the Judiciary Committee, Biden was able to build a solid reputation for himself in American political and social circles over the past couple of decades.

The Obama campaign is expected to release a text message on Saturday morning with all the specifics.

Biden dropped out of the 2008 race for the Democratic presidential nomination after fair poorly in the Iowa caucuses. At that time, he talked dismissed the notion of joining a ticket by virtue of another candidates bid for the Oval Office.

"I am not running for vice president," he said in a Fox interview.

"I would not accept it if anyone offered it to me. The fact of the matter is I'd rather stay as chairman of the Foreign Relations Committee than be vice president."

Well, that was yesterday, and this is today.

At long last, the cat is out of the bag.

And, in spite of the fact savvy voters knew it all along, Hillary Clinton is now finally out of picture.

Ding Dong!

The Witch is Dead.

With Biden in the White House, I'll have more time in the field...

Hillary Clinton...the dream slips away. Barack mindful baggage costs extra!

Rumors floated around in the last thrust of the primaries earlier this week that some negotiating was going on behind-the-scenes to exchange pledges for a toasty VP slot for Hillary Clinton.

The scuttlebutt revved up a little when word filtered out that Obama knocked Hillary up ( English term for calling someone on the telephone) and suggested they get together for a chat when things calmed down a bit.

In spite of the fact pundits and the insiders alike hinted that wily Hillary was a designer shoe-in for the "dream ticket", conflicting statements started filtering out of both camps.

I guess someone woke up from the nightmare!

"No overtures were made," stressed a loyal poker-faced chieftain playing cards close to the chest in the Clinton camp.

Meanwhile, press outlets started reporting that in a clandestine conference call with key players on the Democratic ticket scene, Hillary swore up-and-down she'd do whatever it took to help usher Obama-cakes into the Oval Office in November. And, some allege, she slyly made a ploy for the second-place slot on the ticket, somewhat obsequiously.

Boy, would I have liked to have been a fly on that wall!

But, something must have gone awry.

Suddenly, on the heels of his big-win Tuesday, Obama did a bit of an about-face.

To an incredulous media, he announced he'd wait 'til fall to name a running mate.

Ouch!

But, it was the stunner about mulling over potential candidates, that tipped me off.

If Obama isn't sure about Hillary now, he'll never be come he** or high water.

In retrospect, all the shenanigans leading up-to and in-the-wake of securing the much coveted prize, amounted to a lot of flimsy posturing, the swallowing-of-pride, you name-call it.

So, what fell down and went boom?

Perhaps, Lady Diana said it best.

Three in a marriage just doesn't work.

If it wasn't slick Willy's fault, then just maybe Hillary's to blame for failing to be a "gentleman" on Tuesday night - and ultimately - for being a spoil sport.

After all, boys will be boys.

What do I predict?

No Hillary. No Edwards.

Yup, it's all about change.

So, I hazard a guess that "Golden Boy" will be scratching around for a spanking new candidate without any baggage.

Bet 'ya a fiver, dudes.



Reflections in a golden eye...

Bill Clinton...pain in butt?

They're right...she does have a big a**.

The media has been trying to pin down Obama on potential running mates for the upcoming election.

But, he's been a bit coy with the press. And, determined not to overstep himself in these precarious political times.

In spite of the fact it's obvious someone in the wings will have to reach out with a hook, and yank Mrs. Clinton off the world stage kickin' and screamin' at the appropriate nod, Obama has been quite a gentleman about it - biding his time patiently.

Is the nomination in the bag yet?

Not if Hillary would have her druthers.

On the subject of choosing an individual for the Vice Presidential ticket, one reporter pointedly asked Obama,

"Will you be willing to consider everyone a possible running mate, even if his or her spouse is a pain in the butt?"

A veiled reference to slick Willy?

After a roar from the crowd, and a moment to collect his thoughts, Barack was inclined to note for the record that one of his heroes - Abraham Lincoln - often filled positions with rivals, so why not?

That old familiar saying comes to mind,

"Keep your friends near, but your enemies closer."

If that's the route he goes, the man must be a masochist.

If you ask me, jousting with Hillary in the White House would amount to utter he**.


Personally, I wouldn't tempt fate by sipping any beverage or munching on any delectable goody she brought to the Oval Office around afternoon tea, either.

Barack, beware of Greeks who bear gifts...

John Edwards...for Vice President of U.S.?

I hadn't heard from presidential hopeful - JOHN EDWARDS - since he bowed out of the race, so when a lone e-mail popped up in my inbox, I clicked it open to take a gander at what he was up to.

Of course - the big news splashed over all the newspapers around the Nation this morning - was John's announcement that he's backing Barack Obama in his quest for President. And, confirmation that Barack signed on to Edwards' anti-poverty initiative which Edwards launched yesterday with the goal of reducing poverty in the United States by half within the next ten years.

But, I didn't notice any reports on John's - "College for Everyone" - project; a scholarship pilot project started up by he and Elizabeth a few years ago in Greene County, North Carolina - the subject matter of his communication to me.

As Edwards notes in his e-mail,

"The (College for Everyone) program is based on a simple promise to students: make good grades, work at least 10 hours a week, and stay out of trouble - and the program will help pay for your first year of college."

Since the project was first launched in 2005, the percentage of Greene County high school graduates attending college has increased from fifty-four percent to seventy-four percent, according to the Edwards' team.

Current up-to-date records also reflect that one hundred and sixty-five high school seniors in Greene County are set to graduate in May and that ninety-four percent have been accepted into N.C. colleges and universities.

For John and Elizabeth, the previous numbers were heartbreaking.

"Every parent wants to give their child the opportunity that comes with a college education. But for too many American families, the dream of a college degree was just that - a dream."

John and Elizabeth are now asking for financial support from Americans around the country to help make the dream of a college education a reality for some hard-working students in rural Greene County, for starters.

Donors may make tax-deductible donations of - $10, $25, or $50 - to bring the Edwards' project one step closer to a realistic goal of a high-quality "College Education for everyone".

"By contributing now," notes Edwards, "You will help fulfill the college dreams of deserving students in Greene County and show the world that if we work together on big and important issues, change is possible."

On the heels of all this news overnight, it strikes me that it is wholly possible that John Edwards may make an excellent running mate for Barack Obama in a bid for Vice President of the United States.

Don't 'ya think?

info@johnedwards.com