Illinois Libertarians Express Support for Patrick Fitzgerald’s Retention

Below is a press release that arrived from the Illinois Libertarian Party. It’s political point is that, with a Republican governor in jail and a Democratic one about to be indicted,

“It is clear that Illinois voters deserve to have more choices than the two traditional parties.”

MR. PRESIDENT, RETAIN FITZGERALD

The Libertarian Party of Illinois (“LP Illinois”) strongly urges President Barack Obama to retain Patrick Fitzgerald as U.S. Attorney.

With the history of political corruption in Illinois, Fitzgerald has acted as a neutral sheriff, vigorously investigating wrongdoing, regardless of political party. He was originally recommended by former Republican Senator Peter Fitzgerald, who wanted an “outsider” as U.S. Attorney, someone with no ties to any local political organization which might influence investigations of inside influence peddling or pay to play politics. As anyone who has followed the news can attest, there is plenty of that in the State of Illinois.

Fitzgerald had previously investigated former Republican Governor George Ryan, who ultimately was convicted and is currently serving a prison sentence.

In December, Fitzgerald filed a criminal complaint against current Democratic Governor Rod Blagojevich, who was arrested, subsequently impeached and will soon come before the Illinois Senate, who will decide whether or not to remove him from office. Based on the accusations in the criminal complaint, LP Illinois expects that Blagojevich will be indicted and will stand trial.

It is quite possible that two consecutive Illinois governors, one a Republican and one a Democrat, will be serving prison sentences at the same time.

This shows that neither party is worthy of the citizens’ trust and that an independent U.S. Attorney is essential. It is clear that Illinois voters deserve to have more choices than the two traditional parties. Unfortunately, ballot access laws in Illinois are designed to support the status quo and keep other political parties out.

President Obama has indicated his intention to retain Fitzgerald. LP Illinois feels that this is the proper decision and soundly praises the President for taking a non-partisan stand to fight corruption in Illinois politics, despite how members of his own party might feel. We fully expect the President to follow through on his stated intention.


Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *