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Related: Editorials & Other Articles, Issue Forums, Alliance Forums, Region ForumsI just spoke to Senator Durbin's office. Was told that Dems will issue a unified response
Although the person answering the phone didn't have specifics yet, he did know they are discussing how best to respond and it will be as one.
I suggested that they check DU if they want to know how Democrats are reacting and what we want.
I also said, that while I realize that the 47 will not be prosecuted, I wish they would be. At least investigated by the DOJ. Evidently, they have been getting a lot of calls saying the same thing
We have no hope 47 senators will be prosecuted. But absolutely Tom Cotton should be
Durbin's response:
Its virtually unprecedented, Durbin said. Here we are in the middle of delicate negotiations. Were down to the last few days. Were trying to reach a point with our allies where Iran is going to stop any development of a nuclear weapon, to put inspectors on the ground, and 47 Republican senators elbowed their way into the room and say Dont waste your time. We get the last word on this, and were not going for it. It really is irresponsible, as far as Im concerned."
More at link
http://chicago.cbslocal.com/2015/03/10/durbin-gop-letter-to-iran-a-new-low-that-undermines-nuclear-negotiations/
TwilightGardener
(46,416 posts)President's negotiations--negotiations that are INTENDED to prevent war in the Middle East--has to be against the law, and prosecutable (is that a word?). Has to be. But then, a torture program that flies in the face of the Geneva conventions would seem to have gotten somebody somewhere punished, and only one low-level guy has ever been punished relative to that whole fiasco. So, nah gah happen.
marym625
(17,997 posts)And not prosecuting the war crimes is reprehensible, this is something that happened by US Officials undermining the US President.
This can be prosecuted under The Logan Act. Direct violation. And the guy on the phone talked about them looking at it.
I have no fantasy (well, yeah, fantasy) that they will all be prosecuted. But I really believe that Tom Cotton should be.
jwirr
(39,215 posts)controlling this type of action. Both of the men in the top leadership positions in the Congress signed this letter. They should be held responsible also. Especially when boner is the one who started this by inviting the head of another country to help undermine these talks.
One thing I really love is that finally our Democratic congress persons are learning to stand together as one. Very late but welcome.
I agree. But I think it is much more likely, though probably still won't happen, that the jr. Senator who authored that piece of crap would be prosecuted.
Yes, that was the best part of the call. Learning a unified response is coming.
Marthe48
(16,692 posts)as he wrote.
That pos whoever it is
sunyasi
(37 posts)special prosecutor? This is somewhat more important than fibbing about a blowjob!
blm
(112,920 posts).
The more calls the better
202.224.2152 Durbin's office in DC.
guillaumeb
(42,641 posts)we should do more than just whine. I will call the first thing tomorrow if there is no response today.
guillaumeb
(42,641 posts)the woman answering stated that they had already received many calls on this issue.
Mark Kirk's number is 202/224-2854.
we might want to call him as well
marym625
(17,997 posts)And the guy sounded dejected. I told him this us Kirk's last term, that it may not be treason but it certainly is traitorous. That I will do everything I can to see he is impeached and prosecuted but most assuredly, he won't be reelected.
There is nothing on his official page or twitter about the letter
guillaumeb
(42,641 posts)I was told that the person certainly will inform Kirk about my concerns. No comment about calls received from others.
I agree with the poster who said this should be Benghazi for the GOP
marym625
(17,997 posts)It was just his defeated tone. Plus, if Durbin is getting a ton of calls, Kirk must be.
Even if their Benghazi bullshit had been real, this is worse. This is beyond the beyond. But yeah, we need to follow their lead in not letting this drop. Ever!
maxrandb
(15,192 posts)the "fucksticks" in the Repuke party and their allies in Hate Radio have been calling Dems traitors for fucking years.
Why is it so hard to come up with a response to "actual" fucking treasonous acts!?????
I think they just want to cover all basis and need a forum. But that's conjecture on my part
Savannahmann
(3,891 posts)The Logan Act has never been enforced. Not once. Are you seriously suggesting that the first time it will ever be enforced is during the waning months of the Obama Administration? Seriously?
http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/the-fix/wp/2015/03/09/what-an-18th-century-non-war-with-france-has-to-do-with-the-senates-letter-to-iran/
Please tell me you are not unaware of how that would appear to the American Public. Please tell me you've considered what image it would present during the Presidential Campaign. Right now, the GOP looks like a bunch of assholes. That works for us, and gives us a chance to win control of the Senate back. If they are prosecuted, or even arrested, or hell even just investigated, then they become the martyrs of King Obama's power play as the election season gets started. The tone of the conversation goes from the GOP acting like assholes, to the GOP recognizing the power play of President Obama. Inevitable comparisons to third world dictators who arrest the legislature will be made. MSNBC wouldn't be safe for Democrats to appear on after a while.
So tell me that you've considered these things, because if not, then pray that the Democrats in the Senate have. When your enemy is making an ass of himself, get out of his way and shut the hell up. Don't run out there screaming how outraged you are, because then you run the risk. Will you look like a patriotic member of the Legislative branch? Or will you look like a petty political opportunist who intends to score cheap political points. Because if it is the latter, and chances are it will be, then all the outrage against the Republicans will fade and disgust towards both parties will remain high.
marym625
(17,997 posts)And I have no actual thought that anything more than a major "shame on you" will happen.
That said, I want Tom Cotton prosecuted. Fuck the spineless bullshit we've been going through for a few decades. Put this traitor in jail. It may not be treasonous, but he sure is a traitor
jwirr
(39,215 posts)disagree about not saying anything. If we set back and do not object to what they have done how are the American people going to understand it - all they will be hearing is faux news version. I think it is wise for the Democrats to think about how to act as one in answer to this letter. The President's answer was great. And coupled with the Iranian answer was perfect.
I think that Tom Cotton and the leader of the House and Senate who both signed the letter should be fined.
Savannahmann
(3,891 posts)The people who watch Fox are going to get the Fox version no matter what is said by the Democratic Senators. If it is covered by Fox, it will be cut in such a way that we look petty and idiotic.
Fine would come from Prosecution, which we agreed would be stupid. Or an Ethics complaint filed in the Senate. Which means Republican investigating Republicans. That is about the only thing worse than cops investigating cops.
Smart action, stand back, and if someone puts a microphone in our face talk about some legislative initive to help the middle class. We appear focused on the people, the Repubs look like shit, and we stand a good chance of winning the Senate in 2016.
The way to hurt them is scoreboard. We score and win while they are tying to make us mad so we make mistakes. This kind of shit is red to a bull for us. It's like a knuckleball thrown in a baseball game. It looks so slow and inviting we can't resist taking a swing. If its thrown properly the chances of hitting a knuckleball range from slim to none.
Think, and play to win on the scoreboard.
jwirr
(39,215 posts)been playing with them for 6 years. Most of the time he won.
gordianot
(15,226 posts)If the law is unconstitutional and they are going to violate it they need to eliminate it as well as explain why to the public.
marym625
(17,997 posts)You should call Senator Durbin. I just feel like he's taking the lead on this, though I don't know that.
202.224.2152
gordianot
(15,226 posts)marym625
(17,997 posts)To Durbin.
sabrina 1
(62,325 posts)and Iran. And any 'deal' made will NOT be with the US and Iran.
So their 'threat' was like aiming for a bulls eye and missing by ten miles.
Any agreement reached will be between Iran and five other nations, China and Russia eg have veto power on the Security Council, the agreement will made under International Law, over which a bunch of ignorant members of the Republican Party have ZERO control.
So to say 'the next president can negate the agreement' is a statement of stunning ignorance of not just our laws, but of the International law under which this agreement will be signed.
Once the agreement is signed, the US has little if any power to change it without the cooperation of all the other nations that sign it.
It's clear these morons do not belong in any position of power.
And it also makes clear the need for some standards for people who run for public office.
Eg, they need to pass a basic test on Domestic and International law.
Fortunately the Iranians were far better informed on these matters which is why they were able to totally dismiss the attempted 'threat' from a bunch of clueless, ignorant, no doubt Fox educated morons.
The sad thing is the world judges the US by their stupidity.
What they succeeded in doing was to make the Iranian leaders look like adults while the US again, is made to look like bumbling ignorant children with too many dangerous toys.
marym625
(17,997 posts)Exactly, Sabrina. Thanks for this. (Thanks for the e.g. too)
sabrina 1
(62,325 posts)be united on this. There is simply no way to try to sugar coat what they did. And Dems should be as relentless on this, for as long as possible, all the way to the 2016 elections, as these Fox cultists have been on Bengazi or Monica.
They have a perfect way now to totally undermine the Republican Party and should use all their resources to slam them with it every chance they get.
Mockery, challenges to debate the International law they appeared to be ignorant of, anything, any way to end this siege they have been conducting for far too long.
Considering the end goal of these useful idiots, WAR, it is imperitive to put an end to any influence they may have had on all but the most hopelessly IQ challenged members of this society.
marym625
(17,997 posts)You should too. As the minority whip he must be in charge.
It's just so unbelievable. Can't wrap my head around such traitorous stuff. And so stupid too!
Aerows
(39,961 posts)has become something of a trademark among Republicans.
If disgusted was a sound, I'd be the eruption of Mt. Vesuvius at this latest of Republican actions.
Exactly! Great way to put it too!
randome
(34,845 posts)He has it right. So do you.
[hr][font color="blue"][center]Stop looking for heroes. BE one.[/center][/font][hr]
blm
(112,920 posts).
sabrina 1
(62,325 posts)about that and may be a threat to the National Security of this country.
Response to marym625 (Original post)
BainsBane This message was self-deleted by its author.
Ichingcarpenter
(36,988 posts)this with threats and intimidation.
I m glad they will have a united stance hopefully it won't be like a Canadian curling team but more like the old frontline of the Oakland Raiders
marym625
(17,997 posts)I have no idea what that means but I bet I agree!
Ichingcarpenter
(36,988 posts)curling
or
marym625
(17,997 posts)Love it! Thank you!
Sherman A1
(38,958 posts)expressing my opinion and one of them did sign the letter.
marym625
(17,997 posts)The more we let them know what we're thinking, the better the response will be
mopinko
(69,806 posts)whose thumb is on this scale? things that make you go hmmmm.
marym625
(17,997 posts)One would have to assume that senior senators are behind it but knew better than to author it.
I wonder if ALEC played a part
Doctor_J
(36,392 posts)Or maybe we can just use the Washington generals'
marym625
(17,997 posts)I am going to wait and see. The statements so far have been pretty strong
bigwillq
(72,790 posts)DEMS need to hold them responsible. They need to be prosecuted.
But, I won't go as far as saying I won't vote for then. I love Durbin. He's made some mistakes but on a whole, he rocks.
However, I absolutely want cotton prosecuted
bigwillq
(72,790 posts)or if they will "take it off the table" again.
marym625
(17,997 posts)sibelian
(7,804 posts)Thank you for reporting this, mary.
marym625
(17,997 posts)About to send it to Durbin's office
WillyT
(72,631 posts)marym625
(17,997 posts)samsingh
(17,571 posts)marym625
(17,997 posts)Let him know. 202.224.2152
marym625
(17,997 posts)I sent this post and asked they look at it and all around DU. But I don't know when it will be seen
City Lights
(25,171 posts)the info here with us!
marym625
(17,997 posts)Thank you!
anotojefiremnesuka
(198 posts)in the day.
Things were simpler back then and traitors were dealt with accordingly.
At least the Iranian Government knows the gang of 47 are nothing but asshats.
marym625
(17,997 posts)About people in office in the US? Dear dog something is not right in the heavens!
project_bluebook
(411 posts)and as long as they keep getting away with it they will keep doing the same. Its time for a march on DC with some tar and feathers.
marym625
(17,997 posts)This is unprecedented.
Time for Democrats in office to get a backbone and do something real!
project_bluebook
(411 posts)And Reagans backdoor deal with Iran to hold the hostages, both treasonous.
marym625
(17,997 posts)And yes, just as horrific. Still, nothing on this scale. As far as the number of Senators and what they did.
But yeah, those were pretty horrific as well
project_bluebook
(411 posts)Republicans today, en-masse, have shown they will do anything to advance their sick ideology.
turbinetree
(24,632 posts)INVOKE and enforce the LOGAN ACT
marym625
(17,997 posts)Not going to hold my breath but I hope so.
Though with Cotton, damn straight!
world wide wally
(21,719 posts)marym625
(17,997 posts)I presume?
world wide wally
(21,719 posts)steve2470
(37,457 posts)I look forward eagerly to see the unfolding of this. They REALLY stepped in it this time.
marym625
(17,997 posts)I sure hope that the response is equal to the horrific action.
EEO
(1,620 posts)Nixon undercut President Johnson with North Vietnam and Reagan undercut President Carter with Iran. Both treasonous offenses and nothing happened. Funny how the party that claims itself as the most patriotic is the most self-serving at the expense of the country is claims to love.
marym625
(17,997 posts)I thought I was seeing double for a minute.
Great examples. See posts 61 and 63.
Great minds and all. I appreciate the information.
HenryWallace
(332 posts)As much fun as it is the think about, Democrats will look as petty and opportunistic as the GOP if they tried to prosecute 47 sitting Senators of the opposing party; its unrealistic!
A couple of points here:
Never interrupt an opponent while they are making a mistake the MSM smells blood; let them push the issue.
A well thought out response (See the Vice Presidents) can keep this in the news cycle and set the difference between the Parties in the minds of the great uninformed masses of people who decide elections.
Over-react and you minimize the damage for the GOP (Its just politics or Cokies Fallacy that Both sides do it.)
As an alternative, the Democrats could bring a motion to censure the 47, might even pickup one or two of the Republicans who didn't sign
marym625
(17,997 posts)That's a great idea. And much more likely to happen than any prosecution.
I have said and will keep saying, I think cotton should be prosecuted. Let him hang himself some more, then go after him. I will not budge on that. He deserves jail time for this
Caretha
(2,737 posts)I had not thought of censuring. That's perfect.
I still think Cotton should be made to pay a higher price for such a blatant ballistic warmongering blunder. If you don't stop that type of traitorous action in its tracks as history has shown, you will have more of this out of control warmongering in the future. No one on this earth can afford that.
Bette R. Daize
(43 posts).....so one unprecedented move was bound to lead to another and it will lead to another and another until you know how this story will end. Had enough of this circus yet?
marym625
(17,997 posts)A long time ago.
I keep responding and I think I shouldn't. I believe you're talking to Senator Durbin. So I'll stfu now
duggie99
(40 posts)I called my Republican Senator Gardner in Colorado and told them that what he did was repulsive and would do everything I could in the next election to make sure he was not voted back in. Colorado was not very bright in voting this Tea Party Clown into office.
marym625
(17,997 posts)Good stuff! I am trying to call all 47. Though they won't care since I am only in Kirk's state. But I don't care.
BainsBane
(53,003 posts)marym625
(17,997 posts)I truly appreciate it!
Mnpaul
(3,655 posts)here comes the strongly worded letter.
I don't see much more than that happening.
marym625
(17,997 posts)Someone here suggested censure. I like that idea.
cen·sure
ˈsen(t)SHər/
verb
1.
express severe disapproval of (someone or something), typically in a formal statement.
or in other words: a strongly worded letter
Republicans will wear it as a badge of honor and their base will love 'em for it.
marym625
(17,997 posts)It's something. May not be much but it's something
Mnpaul
(3,655 posts)to keep them from doing it again. Look at the government shutdown. They took a hit but didn't waste any time trying it again.
marym625
(17,997 posts)Not that they're not as stupid as rocks and stubborn as a 3 year old. But I don't know what alternative there is
I wish all 47 would be prosecuted. But we know that won't happen.
What do you suggest?
Mnpaul
(3,655 posts)and responding to this. She will blab on forever and say nothing. Give Grayson a mic and cut him loose. I would also suggest to you to not expect something to come of this. Expecting the Republicans to be punished for this is just setting yourself up to be disappointed. I learned that during the Bush Admin.
marym625
(17,997 posts)A never ending cycle of horror from the GOP.
If we don't get some backbone on this one, I think I will become an independent. I don't care that years from now it's possible they'll look so horrible in the history of the Iran negotiations. They may also just continue their horrific, total and complete disrespect for the President, the laws of our country, the country and all our citizens. That is more likely.
Where are the current day equivalents of Edward R. Murrow, Sam Ervin, Joseph Welch?