Bill Lueders: Talk is cheap in John Doe probe

[hue]

http://host.madison.com/ct/news/local/govt-and-politics/bill-lueders-talk-is-cheap-in-john-doe-probe/article_59bccdaa-61ad-11e3-a6eb-001a4bcf887a.html

A lot of folks — perhaps too many — are spouting off about the John Doe probe launched by the Milwaukee County District Attorney’s office into the campaign of Republican Wisconsin Gov. Scott Walker and more than two dozen conservative groups, among others.

Milwaukee County Sheriff David Clarke Jr. called it a witch hunt by a DA’s office that is “becoming weaponized for political purposes,” according to the Wisconsin Reporter.

The conservative news outlet has published more than a dozen articles on the probe, many quoting anonymous sources making similar charges. One article even suggested the DA’s office chose Francis Schmitz to serve as special prosecutor to provide cover for its Democrat-led scheme to “take down” Walker. Schmitz, a respected former federal prosecutor, made President George W. Bush’s short list for a U.S. attorney post.

But wait: Why is tapping someone with Republican ties and a stellar reputation — the same article quoted a named source calling Schmitz ethically “beyond reproach” — proof of devious partisan intent?

“It lacks internal logic,” reflects Madison attorney Hal Harlowe, formerly district attorney of Dane County. “I don’t see how you can criticize the Milwaukee DA for picking someone who’s beyond reproach.”

[Scuba]

1. Logic was never their strong suit. Besides, it's hate, not logic, that fuels their followers.