You can coerce them to do something within the framework of their job, for example vote a certain way. But you can not coerce an ELECTED official to resign. The people have the right to determine their elected officials, not the Governor. At least, that's the idea behind this charge. Personally, I see both sides and doubt the case is strong enough to gain a conviction.
Finally! Someone who understands. I'm not a criminal, I'm being persecuted! What kind of a country have we become if you aren't allowed to run over your imaginary ex-wife? barfo
The prosecutors of each city are its true government and have too much power. Now that a Republican is the victim, maybe conservatives will see the light.
I think this is a good example to use to decide if what Perry did is fair game or crossed the line. If Obama said: Perry needs to resign or I will veto any bill that favor Texas. Fair for Obama to do or abusing his power as president?
Fair enough. If you think it is OK for him to take that public stance, I understand why you think Perry has done nothing wrong. I feel the other way. If Obama said something like that I would be pissed and hope they come after him any way they can.
Actually, upon only a little bit of reflection, I'm pretty sure that your proposal would be unconstitutional. Parts of the 1965 voting rights act were overturned because of what Chief Justice Roberts wrote as "equal sovereignty." That is, the states have to be treated equal by the feds. So Obama would have to veto legislation favorable to each and every state or no state at all. And targeting Perry would be unfavorable to a state. FWIW
Whatever the laws (like it's possibly coercion in Tx) . . . it's just not proper presidential conduct. I think what Perry did was bullying and improper and would think the same if Obama did it.
What if Perry said : I won't veto the funding bill or demand your resignation, IF you agree to drop pending corruption charges against some of my friends. Would you still consider that proper/legal political coercion? Just how far are you willing to let a governor go?
If you are ever charged with blackmail/extortion, I strongly advise you not to try that as a defense.
What if Perry said, unless you sleep with me, I will veto this spending bill? What if Perry said, unless you murder someone on the street and bring me their heart to devour, I will veto this spending bill? Denny: Vetoing is a thing he's allowed to do. He cannot be accused of any crimes related to vetoing because vetoing is legal.
It was not a threat, it was a solid information. It became a fact. Like I said, Rick Perry in not my first choice. There is probably at least a half dozen Republicans that would fill the need. But Christie isn't my first choice either. I think the guy is sort of entertaining but also a bit like a democrat, perhaps some hidden progressive lurking.
That's criminal. He benefits. A quid pro quo. There is none in saying the people will be better served by someone else.
There's the rub. Right now we only know what was said publicly. What was said in the proverbial smoke-filled back-room is also relevant. You MAY be right, and this may just be posturing. OTOH, it seems dangerous for the prosecutor to try this unless they have some kind of smoking gun.
