Hey, how about we go into this term with our hands tied behind our backs?

[bigtree]

I just don't get the calls for restraint. The voters came out in record numbers to end the republican party control of our government. They expect action, not appeasement or accomodation. They want our representatives to repudiate and stifle the republicans who are intent on dismantling our democracy.

The power to initiate impeachment rests in the House of Representatives for a reason. That is the body whose representatives are closest, and readily accountable to the will of the people. It is their rightful lever against the excesses of the Executive, and as a remedy against the Executive branch's disregard and obstruction of Congress' will.

Bush has clearly challenged Congress and the American people to either confront him as he unilaterally dismantles those levers of accountability and grabs for as much power as he can imagine, or get out of his way. Congress has no choice but to use those levers of influence over the Executive which have been provided for them in the Constitution if they expect to serve as anything more than doormats. Bush has exceeded his authority, repeatedly, and with impunity.

This was not unnoticed by voters as they tore down his republican guard. Bush's arrogance should not be allowed to continue without confrontation and action. There is no grace period for criminals. The new Congress will swear to uphold and defend the law. I full expect them to do just that; without delay and without the timidity and indifference of their former republican wards.



http://journals.democraticunderground.com/bigtree

[Squeech]

1. Agreed

According to exit polls, the number one factor motivating voters was corruption. So let's give the people what they want-- investigate everything, every disaster this corrupt administration has foisted on us. Every day between now and November 2008, there should be a new and different front page story all on the same theme of "Republicans' hands in cookie jar!"

Long live Speaker Pelosi and subpoena power!

[bryant69]

2. Upholding and defending the law doesn't lead directly to impeachment

Rather it should lead directly to investigation - looking at what President Bush has done and how he has screwed things up - from there we can move to impeachment if evidence warrants it (and I'm pretty sure it will).

Bryant
Check it out --> http://politicalcomment.blogspot.com

[seabeyond]

3. can we have investigation first or do we just jump to impeachment

????

[BeFree]

5. Lets not study this thing to death

Lets just get right to the death warrant.

[bigtree]

6. I agree, we need to investigate, then act.

I think we should Demand he change course in Iraq and end the occupation.

I think we should DEMAND an end and a reversal of the 'signing statements'.

I think we should DEMAND that Rumsfeld be held to account for his failures.


But, I don't agree that we should be signalling to Bush that impeachment is off of the table. The threat can be a great motivator. There should be plenty of illegalities with which to leverage action with.

[Maven]

4. Exactly.

People VOTED for change, and drastic change.

I realize Dems want to be magnanimous (it's just our way), but let's not forget who we're dealing with and how much damage they've done or were going to do. We have a LOT of ground to cover, and we're going to have to flex our muscle to do it.

[bigtree]

7. right

Bush has no intention of being fair or truly cooperative. If we assume he's ready to deal we will get caught up in his scheme. We need to set our own strident demands and stick to them. Then, if Bush agrees, we can negotiate. If not, we have the leverage NOW to pressure him into a corner. Later may be too late.