Centrist Congressman not "unalterably" opposed to impeachment

[Truth2Tell]

Just got back from a town-hall forum held by Rep. Adam Smith (D-Boeing) in SeaTac WA.

It was good to see lots of pissed off folks on hand to press impeachment, FISA, war, single payer health care, etc.. even though we were served up all the usual "centrist" Clintonesque rhetoric from Smith on all the usual issues.

But... I did detect some movement. For the first time I heard the Congressman say that he "is not unalterably opposed" to impeachment. He's still opposed, mind you, but not "unalterably" opposed. While this may seem like grasping at straws, it does strike me as a rather different position than "off the table," which is what Smith has been echoing (in essence) until now.

This change in language seemed to slip by most in attendance. Most people were - and rightfully so - more focused on pressing for actual impeachment support. But I don't personally think Smith would've used the language he did tonight unless it was deliberately calculated. I believe he decided that something is back on the table. When he decides to eat - who knows? He seems to be waiting for a "smoking gun." He and others kept pushing the "Repubs will win in 08" canard about the consequences of impeachment - and I think he actually believes it. He is politically afraid - but I think this is progress.

I'm off now to a smaller reception where I plan to pigeonhole the Congressman on this issue. I'll see if I can get him to reiterate or elaborate on his "not unalterably opposed" statement. Maybe I'll even have a few things to say about why he should get busy with the altering. I'll post what I learn.

[wtmusic]

1. How can one be "unalterably opposed" to impeachment?

Seems it depends a little bit on the President's actions.

He's patronizing the crowd. Going nowhere with it.

[nadinbrzezinski]

2. Good, I need to make my appiointment with my critter

and go personally to her office

Family in town, so impossible to go to her meetings

[man4allcats]

3. Smoking gun?

The Constitution is lying in a pool of its own blood! This guy and all these other dumb-asses, and Pelosi most of all, need to get off their butts. If this were a business and we were the bosses, all these fools would have been fired long ago. In fact, this is supposed to be a business and we are, nominally at least, the bosses, and that's what this whole impeachment thing is supposed to be about - getting rid of the fuck-ups.

Kucinich for President!

[Truth2Tell]

6. Don't gotta convince me.

I'd fire the guy if I could. But a successful primary challenge is about as likely as flying pigs.

So working to change his mind is the best option I can see at this point.

[Truth2Tell]

4. Update

Smith slipped in and out of the reception so quickly that I missed him while making my post.

Oh well, I'll get him later. No free rides.

[nadinbrzezinski]

5. thanks