CNN

Oh Yippeeeee ,Its about Time!

It means nothing. The subpoena powers will end with the end of this Congress. Even if something were to happen to someone in the Administration he would be pardoned.

i hope they all get thrown in jail. and i work for the government and i cannot stand the idiots in the white house.

It just means the Supreme court will step in and say no.

It means nothing. Nancy Pelosi and Harry Reid do not have the testicular fortitude to hold George W. Bush and his cronies responsible for any of their reprehensible actions over the last 7 1/2 years. Even if by some unspecified miracle Congeress was able to bring forth any justice and actually hold SOMEONE responsible for SOMETHING, Bush has the power to commute and overturn any sentence, rendering the decision moot. It has taken someone like GEorge W. Bush for us to realize that executive power, left unchecked, gives us an elected Emperor of America.

It means 'W' hasn't needed THIS judge in his hip pocket, yet.

It means bush/cheney will have to try some other corrupt way to get out of this.

It means he and his lawyers should also be convicted of contempt of Congress.

Nothing states they don't have a responsiblity to respond and appear as the summons so directs. Then, and only then, if President Bush wishes for them to invoke executive immunity, then he should put it in writing and they should then exercise it when questioned.

But not to appear is ludicrous.

The House should not be going through its process of the courts as evidenced by the lack of enforcement. I say arrest all three of them immeidately, thrown them in jail, and go from there.

Otherwise. the House is negating is resposbility and is making itself irrelevent by not enforcing it orders.

It means he either has to appeal it or get them pardoned by Christmas.

It disabuses them of the notion that they are above the law. It means that his cronies, preposterous as it may seem, must abide by the law, just like the rest of the American people.

It means every member of this disgraceful administration should be dragged in front of the Congress. If they don't cooperate, they should be arrested for contrempt and put on trial for breaking the law.

It means Rove and Gonzalez better "lawyer up", because here come da judge! Goodling is probably available if they want a really top notch attorney. You know, the one that single handedly turned the justice department on its ear.

Jack, it demonstrates that the Constitution and its division of powers are intact and more powerful than a President who thinks he is above the rule of law.

That was a great move to get a legal opinion. It will be a sad day for Americans if Bush wins an appeal of the decision. If so, let us hope McCain is not elected. He would need a boundary around his executive power.

What does it mean? Nothing. The Attorney General has stated he will not prosecute Congressional contempt charges. We might as well get used to the idea that the most corrupt and evil administration in the history of the nation is going to ride off into the sunset and collect gigantic, taxpayer-funded, retirement checks until their dying days. It makes you want to scream.

Orange Jumpsuits and shackles!

Gosh, you mean there is a judge out there that hasn't been bought or bribed or threatened by the repuglican machine? Wow, I'm amazed.

I guess he'll have to start pardoning a whole bunch of staffers. From here on out he'll be in "CYA" mode.

It means someone is finally standing up to the Bush/Cheney Regime!

I believe history will look back on this administration and see it was the most corrupt of any. Once the insiders are free to speak about what really went on, we will truly see what sociopaths Bush and Cheney are.

ABSOLUTELY!
No one is above the law. However, with matters affecting national security, the hearing should be behind closed doors.

Hope they all go to prison.

This decision brings joy to my conscience and heart. Now comes the national Democrats who are normally very cowardly when it comes to enforcing many of the federal laws.

I'm going to drop Speaker Pelosi and Senate Leader Reid a note and ask them to display some back bone. Hopefully other Americans will follow suit.

It means someone is willing to respect this country, its constitution, and its laws, so George should get himself a harmonica for Club Fed.

It doesn't mean anything. Congress has dragged their feet on this issue and several like it since they took power. At this pace Bush will be out of office and the Dems will still be considering what they should do when the reality is that they should arrest these people immediately, put them on trial immediately, and since it's likely they would be found guilty, imprison them immediately.

President Bush's people should all be in jail and he should have
been impeached.

Hi Jack:

Yes without question.

Ron San Diego

No,the republicans answered that question themselves when Bill Clinton was in Office. The answered then was YES!! That's how they and you blackmailed him and family on something that was none of your business. You kept that going for 8 years.

One small step toward a return to checks & balances. Bad news for Bush.

His family has pulled his fat out of the fire his entire life; so it's no wonder he thinks he's immune from any responsibility; however, in this country, no one is above the law. Not even him.

Ed Reed
Port Aransas, TX

Jack,
it means that the Sergeant at Arms aided by deputies should go out and arrest Rove and the rest of those slime balls, drag them into the committee room, preferably in a stress position, and use enhanced interrogation techniques to get answers to the questions asked by Senators and Representatives. While not being questioned Rove & company should be held in a secure undisclosed location without benefit of counsel. Lets see how they like it when the shoe's on the other foot.

Pablo in Arlington Texas

Simply put, the skeletons in Bush's administration office closet have outgrown the closet and need to come out.....

It means that Bush needs to realize that neither he or his minions are above the law. They do have to answer to all of us.

Doesn't Congress actually need to be in session to issue subpeonas? Good luck with that.

Jack, It means, finally...we may find out why president Bush should be in jail.

Jerry N/Tulsa

Unless Republicans step up to the plate and start calling for Bush and Cheney's impeachment it doesn't mean a whole lot for now. Bush's people shouldn't be pursued till Bush is out of office - DON't GIVE BUSH A CHANCE TO PARDON HIS CROONIES!!!!!

means the constitution of america is strong and we hold these truths above all. enough is enough

It means that the rule of law has been beaten, drowned, gagged, buried, sold, exported, and waterboarded; but not yet dead.

It would be a great day for America if the country actually held these people accountable for their actions and misdeeds. The whole world would then see that the U.S. does in fact have a rule of law and a constitution that means something. I just can't see it playing out that way!

time for the fat lady to sing

Jack,

It doesn't mean a thing unfortunately. President Bush will do the same thing he did when Vice President Cheney threw Scooter Libby to the wolfes. He will pardon anyone that helped them play their arrogent games of deceit. This Administration has put itself above the law since it declared war on Iraq and even Congress has been helpless to do anything about it.

Robert
Forest, VA

It means that Bush has bought off one more judge during his reign of terror. The law, or obeying it means nothing to Bush.He just smirks and recites "executive priviledge" and it's case closed. He has gotten away with so much that noone will ever be able to reign him in or make him be responsible for what he has done. He has thumbed his nose at the legal system for eight years, and what's sad is that they let him get away with whatever he wants to do with no consequences. Even sadder is that McSame sees this and assumes the same thing would happen for him if he's elected.

It means that finally Bush cannot do as he pleases like it has for the last 7 1/2 years. Better late than never I guess.

WOOOOOOOOO HOOOOOOOOOOOO!

The self appointed "emperor" is finally realizing he has no clothes and democracy is going to be restored....maybe even on his watch.

Jack it means that they should be arrested and jailed like the average American citizen would be if they defied a court order.

First, that Bush and his administration are ignorant of the law.

Second, they have to show up, but they can still invoke Executive Privledge and not answer. (But you DO actually have to show up)

It means it's tap-dance time for W.
(with choreography by Cheney, the puppetmaster.)

Of course, if this legal-eagle tap dancing doesn't fend off the evil-doers, I'm sure the decider and his gang of thugs will resort to breaking the knee caps of would-be witnesses and holding the family kitten hostage.

It means nothing. In W's own mind him and his cronies are not only above the law, they are the law.

Aaron in Carolina Beach

It simply means that the court can deliver all the subpoenas they want. They can not make them testify. This is just posturing. I for one would love them to get in front of the congress and answer questions. As soon as they start more subpoenas will come out for members of congress. They are all part of the same corrupt machine.
You want a witch hunt? Fine. There are just as many if not more complicit members of congress. Congress better be careful what they wish for. They just might get it.

With any luck, and intelligent judges, it will mean hard time for the most deserving.

So ONE judge isn't in bush's pocket! Big deal. Rove will not appear, not testify under oath, and will suffer absolutely no consequences for his contempt of congress. He'll go back to texas and get protection from his fans. . .

. . . those judges of the supreme court of texas. The ones who decided, in their almighyt wisdom and probably after taking with bush's boss, God, that churches are immune from liability for assault on their members.

Nothing. If congress calls them, they will refuse to testify, legal action will be initiated, and bush will pardon them before leaving office. They should wait until jan., and then bring charges (criminal) against them and bush/cheney/rumsfield. They should be charged with crimes against humanity, treason, 4,000+ counts of murder, and other charges.

It means we "gotcha" President Bush and the" jigs up". Now all we need is to have two strong armed men with Congressional warrants show up at the doors of those Congress has subpoenaed and cart them off to Congress.

It means the list of people he's going to give unconditional pardons to on the day after Election Day just went from a few dozen to a few thousand. cy gardner, arlington va

it means nancy pelosi will say it does not matter what the court says. her congress is determined to let bush get away with everything. maybe she's trying to hide the fact that she is incompetent by letting bush continue to run amok.

It means that govt. officials are held accountable for their actions since they're supposed to serve their employers(the American people who voted for them).

It means that some judges haven't gotten the memo yet: the law does not apply to the Bush administration. I am sure one of the corporate lawyers or wing nut idealogues that he has packed the courts with will reverse this crazy decision.cy gardner arlington va

Although it is encouraging to the American public to think that there is at least one judge that is not in Bush or Cheney's back pocket, in reality it means nothing. If any of these idiots actually do appear before the Congress all we will hear is "I don't recall" I don't remember" "I claim executive privilege" or even better yet "While I was preparing to testify, I read a lot of different accounts of what happened so I don't know what I actually remember, or what I read!"

What this administration has done is no worse than John McCain advocating off shore drilling to get big bucks from the oil companies.

Corruption is corruption regardless of who does it and what form it takes. Of course McCain stated the invasion of Iraq was all about oil in one of his senior moments but has never been held accountable by the press for that statement since he was and is a big proponent of both the invasion and continuing on with the occupation.

Jack
Its about time this administration will be held accountable, these people are guilty of a lot more than breaking into an office in the Watergate Hotel, those guys all went to prison. It will be interesting to see what direction this will take.

It means the Shredders will be jamming from all the evidence, and the Myers and Bolten housholds will be hot in summer from all the documents they have to burn, as Gonzales slips out of his old life and into his new, as a grape farmer in Napa Valley California, and under his new name Hector Vino.

There will be scheduling conflicts, bouts of political Alzheimers, posturing and peacocking, blubbering, and hopefully, eventually, a paparazzi photo of Laura and the girls in headscarfs cleaning the floors with a nice spit shine while George and Dick fluff the pillows for Barak and family.

And all this, after a heapin' helpin' of cronie-istic pardons go out to the offending parties.

Nothing.
By the time the appeals are over they will all be long gone.
Mike CA

Jack, it means that Bush and his friends will have to appear in court, apparently to answer for their worongdings. Of course, this does not means impeachment or imprisonment, as Bush is a lame duck, and it might just become a publicity event, still a plus for the Democrats.

If it sticks, it might mean that we are about to get some payback for the mess these idiots have put our country in. What bothers me is that nothing will ever be done, and will be swept out with the gabage.These people who are worse than comman criminals, they hide behind the shadows of the Constitution, and they should be treated as traitors, for tramping on our Constitution.

You mean they are not above the law? And all this time I thought there was some kind of invisible force field around the White House which kept them immune from pesky common people issues, like obeying laws.

Jack, it means that 'finally' we are seeing a justice system that says "No one is above the law". I have never believed in 'executive privilege'.....Look what the Bush Bunch have gotten away with!

It means the Bush administration hadn't packed the courts quite as well as they thought.

Talk about smoke and mirrors. Big deal. This could drag on for years in federal courts ending up in the Supreme Court where conservatives and Bush appointees will rule in favor of them NOT HAVING to appear. While I can hardly wait for the exit of this bunch from the national scene, I doubt none will ever go to testify because on his last day in office Bush will give transactional immunity to his whole administration and they can all take the fifth.

The judge was right. NO person is above the law so no person should be exempt or immune to answer questions from a court or congress to include the president. the president also should not be able to pardon any person who will not answer the questions.

Bush thinks the law does not apply to him or his crooked cronies. Why can't anyone prove him wrong? These people are evil. They have soiled the Constitution and flouted the law repeatedly. Why is this okay? Cheney, Bush and much of their gang have done more to hurt this nation, our principles and our democracy than anyone in Guantanamo. Why can't we put these people in prison where they belong? cy gardner arlington va

None of us are above the law, Jack. Although Mr. Bush seems to think he is, I've got news for him and his Rovites. HE'S NOT!! I want to see these guys testify so the truth finally does come out.

It means that the Judicial Branch of our government seems to be the only branch doing the work for the people and not for the Republican party.

It means nothing!! Bush doesn't care about the law, or the Constitution, or the truth, for that matter. Didn't you hear? He is the decider! He thinks he's King George!

Hopefully, it will be the beginning of the end of the blatant misuse of "executive priviledge" and hopefully someone in this administration will start to be held accountable for their actions. But maybe I'm asking for too much.

After Bush gets done pouting he’ll probably ignore the decision and go on business as usual. The judge will resign.

Keith
Haslet, TX

It means that one judge's opinion carries no weight against an administration and a Congress that can evade prosecution as long as they want to, even if they have to pass a law granting themselves immunity. What a bunch of losers these people are. They somehow found a way to remove their conscience when they were sworn in.

To Esther Marie Cuyahoga Falls Ohio...

Hey; You leave Babs Bush outta this!

it means, instead, we will get to watch 3 hours, of each of their testimonies, saying,"i cannot answer that question,because of executive priveledge",or "no comment",or,"i dont recall",or"can i have some more water?"

It doesn't mean a thing, Jack. Once it goes to the supreme court poobahs, they won't let it happen anyway. They are all in bed with Bush. How do you think we got that nincompoop as president for starters?

Bush has been the worst president in our history. period!. He has done nothig for the American people. I hope he goes to his little ranch and never leaves.

Unfortunately, Jack, nothing will happen here including a valuable lesson for all of us. We need to press our elected officials face to the wall and demand that this kind of Constitutional flaunting will not be possible in the future. We all know how that will go.

Since Bush operates like the neutrino, I doubt it will make a difference.

Ray Kinserlow
Lubbock, Texas

They have been playing God in this administration but the Judge says they're not. Put this Judge on the Supreme Court.

Unfortunately it doesn't mean much. These are congressional subpoenas and following up on this would mean they might miss that big vacation they had planned.

It means that it is time for White House staff members to find out that they are not above the law, instead that they are bound by it. It is also time for Bush and Cheney to realize that their immunity runs out when a new president is sworn in, as well, and that they will pay for trying to become absolute monarchs in what should be a democracy.

FInally there is someone in the judical system that Bush hasn't tried to replace with another one of his cronies. It is high time to have Bush,Cheney and their ilk stand trial at the international court and finally thrown in prison never to see the light of day. We must not allow the current criminal regime get away with breaking the law.

It mean's that judge should expect his phone line to be tapped very soon!

Jack, you tell me what it means. Trying to decode what comes out of Washington is like trying to decode baby gibberish, hopeless.

Jack it means that people like Karl Rove will be singing like a canary when he comes before the House Judiciary committee.

There is nothing, NOTHING!, I would like more than to see these liars on the witness stand.

It means that while this is headlines now and drawing some much need attention for Congress to act upon, it will mostly likely fade and be forgotten like all the other arrogant above the law and lack of accountability Bush Adminsitration cases.

Jack, Why bother with the congressional subpoenas. Bush will pardon them anyway. Terence, Piscataway,NJ

you can lead a horse to water,but you cant make him drink,unless of course you water-board 'em.

It shows that his people are citizens of the United States of America, like you and me.

Dear Jack,

That's nonsense! What do you mean my people are not immune from congressional subpoenas? To work for me, you need to be up to date on all your immunizations.

Signed,
Dubya

Wait, you mean the President and his staff aren't above law and oversight, two of the founding principles of the Declaration of Independence? Could have fooled me these past eight years.

It means absolutely NOTHING! Bush will simply ignore it just like he does everything else. He's King George, didn't you know that?

One thing though. That judge who ruled on this will probably feel some blowback -like maybe some "accidental" fire at his home or some other Rove tactic.

After seeing what's happened over the last eight years, sadly, NOTHING! Our only hope is the International Red Cross going after him for war crimes. Would he receive his pension and perks from behind bars?

When it comes to Bush, it doesn't mean anything. His administration didn't appear for all the previous subpoenas, so I bet none of them will appear for this one.

Congress has more important things to do than waste their time on these people. They will beat any charges brought against them. I wish the opposite wre true but sadly it is not. Thomas Jefferson et.al have been shedding tears for years and wil continue to do so.

It means absolutely nothing – never has. I don’t know who this judge thinks he is, but if a Supreme Court ruling is meaningless to Bush what makes him think anyone will comply with his order? And no one will ever enforce contempt charges against anyone in this WH.

i personaly do not think any body getting payed buy our government should be immune from any thing even the president , once in the office even there spouses

perry jones
council bluffs iowa

I'm so glad to hear it. But the Congress, I believe is waiting until after the elections. The last thing we need is for Buch & co., Inc. to be looked upon a bunch of martyrs.

Crimes are crimes, no matter how long it takes to bring the bullies to justice. And this gang has committed quite a few.

Jack, it means the rule of law still exists in this country. King George and his ilk are subject to the laws of this country. This man has left a taint on the presidency that will take a long time to remove and hopefully this is the first step in restoring the power of Congress.

Jack-

It means far too little, far too late. Although finally someone has stood up for the Constitution, I fear that King George will only go on a pardon binge if the truth of his administration's misdeeds ever come to light. Why the Democrats in Congress are not pushing for impeachment hearings is infuriatingly beyond me.

Keep up the good work!

No No, forget the little guys, go after ROVE!!

It means absolutely nothing right now. I hope someone gets the chopping block ready for future goals and punishment.

I agree with Pablo, let's waterboard 'em!

This judge must be some kind of idiot. Guaranteed, he will be looking for a assistant legal aide job by next week.

Not much since George Bush thinks he is Steven Seagal...above the law!!!

Wildwood Crest, NJ

It means the President might want to consider moving his library from Texas to Kansas, as in Leavenworth Federal Prison, where they all can be inmate librarians. I will give them a little pocket money each month.

It doesn't mean anything more today than It did yesterday. Bush's people will stay mute.

What it "means" and what will "happen" as a result, are two very different things.

Nothing will happen,It just build up our hope that there is a few good people in washington. Then we wake up and nothing will happen like always. Just a dream???

It means there is at least one federal judge in the country that remembers the U.S. Constitution and the system of checks and balances its framers created with our three branches of government.

Carol
Lompoc, CA

It doesn't mean anything. The Bush Bunch doesn't have to obey the law or judges. We all know that by now.

The whole White House staff should not only be subpoenaed, but locked up for crimes against America including George Bush.

This is nothing more than DC drama. The laws of this country are obeyed and enforced selectively except by Maricopa County Sheriff Joe Arpaio. We should elect him President. He get's it.

Nothing. Congress is going on vacation and it will be all forgotten once they reconvene. Sorry bunch of losers.

It means...

1. It means no one in the United States is above the law.
but...
2. It means Bush doesn't care about our own laws, he just wants to protect his guilty "Bush and Company"
3. It means nothing will happen to them because Bush is in office, they need not worry about anything... business as usual for past four+ years.
4. It means the next President will have to clean up after Bush, unless they are just as corrupt as Bush is, and decide to pardon all of them. God have mercy on us all, if that is the case. Question is which one of the candidates is most likely to do this? McCain maybe?

South Georgia

Nothing it will if nessecary be sent to the supreme court or overturned before it ever gets there by the federal appeals court. This is nothing but a federal judge who is a liberal left winger. All politics if the democrats were so interested in this why did they not bring it up when they took over the senate and house.

It means that the justice department needs to do its job and bring all of the bush/cheney criminals to justice.

Nothing. He doesn't know what that word means.

Boise, ID

About time somebody stands up to this government, Congress and Senate needs a dose of that as well.

We need to start issuing lie detector tests to get the real truth from all of our represerntatives, maybe the backdoor deals and other nonsense would stop!!

Mary Steele
Yorktown VA

I don't think it means anything. Every one of Bush's close friends would lie under oath anyway, so what difference would their testimony make?

Sorry to say Jack, it won't mean "jack." (no pun intended)
Bush will continue to pardon anyone and everyone from his administration as it suits him.

Cindi
Des Moines IA

Finally. George Bush's neocon legal eagles have gone too far even for a Bush appointee. Too bad the Justice Department has been so overwhelmingly politicized that there is nothing Congress can do about it.

Jack, George Bush and company have been stomping on the constitution for eight years while Democrats and Republicans have been laying around like wet pups. Americans, Democrat and Republicans, so called patriots have stood around and watched this happen. If justice happens it will be a surprise to everyone. Maybe it will happen, but don't count on it.

Kennth Chadbourn, NC

Hi Jack;
When our Judiciary Justices across the land see a rat, they go after it. I think it is HIGH TIME We the People sought to correct, the mess, this group of stubborn warmongering AWOL brats started.

It means Impeachment, is just a sweet moment away and, 'HAPPY DAYS ARE HERE AGAIN!

If it's One thing the Average American Joe knows about it's JUSTICE system, it's that it works for everyone, when it is applied.

Since when have little things like "the law" and "the Constitution" bothered anyone in this administration?

I hope this will be the same judge when it comes time to try Bush & Mr Cheney for war crimes.

It may mean that Bush and Saddam Hussein might have a few more things in common. Let history judge. I think we'll all find the Bush administration is now beyond the reach of normal courtesy and forgiveness.

Jack
It's to little too late, the Bush administration, should be serving prison time instead of serving this country. Bush, Cheney, Karl Rove and the whole bunch. It's a shame for all the things they've gotten away with, and CONGRESS, don't get me started. Pelosi, Reed, and all of congress just stands by, like they have all got good sense. they need to put Congress in prison with them. I'm like Lou, doesn't anybody deserves a country that works.

He isn't God afterall.

And may I suggest a petition from the Iraqi's before the World Court to
Give them a front row seat in Guantanamo.
That's where all the mass murderers, child preditors, and treasonous vermin, belong.

We all know that nothing will happen to anyone in this administration. Presidential papers have already been sealed for years to come and most politicians are well-versed in hundreds of ways to say "I don't recall"... so any hearings will be another waste of taxpayers money. It's a shame that federal judges haven't clearly expressed this rule often and loudly, and enforced it while the evil-doers were actually in the act. Cyndy, from Virginia

Geeez, do we Americans REALLY believe any of the Bush croonies are going to get justice? Yeah, and I'm still waiting for the tooth fairy to appear. This is nothing but another waste of the tax payers money and a joke beyond all jokes. It's a little too late in the game to bring these fools to justice. They have made a mockery of the ENTIRE legal justice system, Congress, etc. AND yet penalize everyone else for so much as a speeding ticket.

I'm disgusted by it all at this point. I hope and pray Sen. Obama cleans our government of these dirty OLD rats! They are nothing but the root of the problem. OLD men holding onto their BIG egos and selfish greed and ambitions.

It means he's just like the rest of us, only not as bright because someone had to explain it to him.

It means it's a good thing his term is almost over.

And for the rest of us, it means that when DOJ is not policing itself, judges still know how to do their jobs. I think that is why I find Mike Mukasey so disappointing. Anyway, didn't you hear the collective sigh of relief?

It's about time they were held accountable! But then, WHEN will anything be actually done to them?

Jack,

This is only fair. Why should they be exempt?

Jack B.

What this means, if you are the President, is that you can lie and cheat for 7 1/2 years...but sooner or later it will catch up to you. Doesn't really do us any good, does it?

The Judicial Branch has found it's balls and decided to send the Executive branch a message. Remember us?

It's a damn shame it didn't happen when it mattered. A day late and a dollar short the worthless jerk is about out of office. I guess we can at least try and make sure he remains the worst president the United States has ever had or will probably ever have. I don't think the Republicans are dumb enough to vote another jerk like Bush into office again.

This is a very good decision!!

Nearly everyone of Bushs top staff–showed contempt for fair play, an air of secrecy in all that they did, and clear indications they forced their subordinates to tow the company line–even when it was unconstitutional, and perhaps illegal.

Testimony before Congress should be done–and let the chips fall where they may. We need to send a message, emblazoned in our history books for future generations–we expect more from our President and his chosen staff.

Jack,
It means that all these people live according to the law as we all have to....being in or part of the White house does not give them any special power and they should learn that, one way or another.

William N.B. Canada.

It means that when you spit in the wind it comes right back. because it goes Nowhere! So is the Law of Bush Gravity.

The American people have finally won something. Cheney should also be put in that mix. But hold on, with the Congress we now have, I'll believe it when I see and hear it. For the life of me, I will never understand why Karl Rove got a job with that other cable news station. A perk for being corrupt?

It means that "everybody" is not an idiot like George W. Bush and his cronies who think that most people forget what the administration has done, and some people realize that the constitution still may mean something to that judge and most of the American people. You can't fool "everybody" all of the time as Bush and Cheney seem to think.

To tell you the truth Jack, I do not know who is right anymore. Every governing branch of this country has become chaotic or disfunctional now. There is no harmony between them as the only thing they do best is to clash with each other so nothing good happens to the people in this country. Can you tell who is right and who is wrong ? Because I am lost....

- Nuwan from Houston, TX

It means someone will have to explain it to Bush, very slowly and with small words. The words in the constitution make his head hurt.

It means the Leavenworth train will be leaving.....All Aboard!

If our House Speaker fails to inforce the law maybe she should be removed from office, what is it with her that she won't do her job. She is just on the edge of being as sorry as Bush.

It means it's time to employ the services of "Dog, The Bounty Hunter" He seems to have a certain way of handling scoff-laws that make them want to reconsider their non-appearance decision.

Heck, I can finally go to sleep now. How Miers, Rove and the other "Bushies" could just ignore the subpoenas just plain blew my mind. If it were you or me, Jack, we'd be underneath the jail in no time flat, hanging out with Bubba and his Gang of Swang. So they'll now appear per their subpoenas so they can invoke their 5th Amendment rights....Now we're cookin'

If they have done nothing wrong and have nothing to hide, then why are they afraid to be questioned under oath? I think they "doth protest too much". Definitely Karl Rove should be made to testify.

Jack

It means nothing as theRepublicans will stall and stall and the Democrates will look like the fools! Ever hear the term "I don't recall".
or "I can't remember".

Jack, This is the classic tale of the tail wagging the dog. The old adage that the truth shall set you free is in reverse. We will only know the truth concerning this administration when we are free of them. Then it will all come gushing out in all it's putrid glory. Terrell of Vista Ca.

Nothing really. Afterall, you said it yourself..... they can "claim executive privilege" at the hearing. That's a hearing that produces no more results than ignoring the subpoena, to begin with.

Harry
Ky.

It means that the judiciary has finally grown the necessary anatomical parts to stand up to the present treacherous administration.
Bush is toast. The rule of law will be his toaster.

King Bush doesn't like unruly followers. He should sentence Judge Bates to the gallows for such an obvious act of defiance.

It means little because George Bush has expanded the powers of the Presidency farther than they have ever been and Congress continues to watch. Why won't Pelosi even consider impeachment? Maybe if Bush thought he could have been impeached he wouldn't defy oversight so blatantly.

It means almost nothing. It still takes a congress with a backbone to start proceedings against the executive branch. Until Pelosi and the other Democrats 'grow a pair', the Bushies have nothing to fear.

What it means Jack is that he better get his people together and get their stories straigth.

That he's not immune either? Go figure. He's not GOD after all....

its a good idea but in the real world we all know nothing will come of it. this group running the white house have got the goods on someone or something, the only way the mouse eludes the cat is be being real greasy.

It means that they are subject to the rule of law just like anyone else. Of course, once they are there they will lie or "fail to remember" just like everyone else from the administration who has shown up to testify.

Just mentioning the name of Karl Rove makes my skin crawl, let alone Dick Cheney. Remember the long lost Donald Rumsfeld?? Now there is an axis of evil for you Jack. These men will never face any charges for what they have done. It's all too late. Good riddance to every last one of them. Can January '09 come quick enough?

Truly is sad, but it means our present Adminstration has alot to hide.
Jack Carlson
Portland, OR

Finally after eight more years perhaps the Bush/Cheney administration will have their feet held to the fire! I'm sure they have felt that they got away with all the things they have done. Clinton would have been crucified on the White House lawn had he done the underhanded things that Bush has done!

It means absolutely nothing. Even when the Supreme Court makes a ruling they don't like, they get a crafty lawyer to try a different approach. Our legal system is a joke; from the top down. Linda in Woodbury, NJ

It means that TB can't be AWOL

Can't wait because I'm tired of seeing Rove sprew his dirty politics all over the place. It appears he has even influenced the Straight Talk Express into becoming the Mudslinging Express. Hopefully he will be made to go and testify and if found guilty be sent to the honeycone "jail" and not one of the nice ones that they send some people who do wrong.

President Bush knows it doesn't matter who get's put in front of Congress they will just pull the same thing the pro babseball players did and say "wasn't me." or "I don't know." When was the last time you heard anything about the baseball junkies? This will be the same, they will lie and then it will all go away and be forgotten. Luckily for you Bush will be gone too.

I'd like to say that it is a wake up call to our most imperial president, but knowing how he is, he'll just appeal the ruling and delay the outcome until his term has run out.

hopefully it means that George W Bush, Dick Cheney, Karl Rove and their whole criminal gang will be trading the White House for the Big House sometime in the near future.

He's going to have to write pardons from here to January 19th!

It's of no matter. Pelosi controls what gets to the floor of the House and she won't allow it. Even if she pushed for it, "executive privilege" renders the investigation moot and puts a "patriotic" spin on their refusal to testify. Even if the Supreme Court ruled that Bush team could not claim privilege, they can do what any career criminal would do and take the Fifth.

Oh, I know, I have a better idea.

The voters from each state demand to put out a referendum to arrest Bush/Cheney/Rove and cronies on site for the murder of our young service men and post bush/cheney attrocities commented in office.

Try that for executive privilege.

Reminds me of the movies...diplomatic immunity
bush, la.

It means Bush was not as smart as he thought he was. There is a Federal Judge he forgot to replace with one of his cronies.

It means that perhaps true democracy is not dead in this country. It is about time that the sins of these reptiles within the Bush crime administration catches up with each one of them

It's about time. But they should not stop with those two, go all the way to the top with Bush and Cheney.

Nice to know at least one judge follows the law, but I think its way too little way too late. Nothing is going to come of it because they always lose their memory when they have to testify. As in: I don't recall, I don't remember, not that I know of, not that I am aware of, not that I was told, etc., etc., etc.,

I'm thrilled to see someone stand up to the imperial attitude of the Bush WH and tell them that they ARE actually subject to the same rules and the same constitution as the rest of us. I just wish I could believe it will make any real difference – but I can't. They may show up when they're required to for now, but don't expect any responses other than the old tried and true, such as claims of executve privelege and bad memory.

It means one slipped through the cracks. They actually left a judge in place who has read the constitution. He'd better watch his back.

It means they are all a bunch of damn criminals. I thought we already knew that??

Kendall Hewitt

Well, what they waiting for? Subpoena them so we can indict them on war crimes. Maybe they'll be like Karadizc and say, "I didn't do it."

He violated the constitution on almost a daily basis! Although I am a democrat, I am disgusted at Congress for not doing something about this!

Maybe Obama will charge them with war crimes if he is elected. It IS only fair...

it dosen't mean nothing jack ,because we have a congress with no backbone,no spine, no means, no nothing

It's aboutdamn time! I am so sick of these crooks and liars and the damage they've done to my country. Bush may pardon all of them, but he can't pardon himself, and he will have to answer for the crimes of his regime.
Fortunately Bush's pardons are as worthless as his promises when it comes to the War crimes tribunal, and we can only hope they will take action as soon as the Bush regime leaves power.

It means that as much as President Bush hates it, he has to agree with a previous Democratic president and say "He's made his ruling, now let him enforce it."

I'm sure the humble public servants in the White House will comply with the legal ruling, especially with relentless watchdogs in the media, like CNN, and in Congress applying constant pressure on the Bush Administration to respect international and domestic laws over these past seven and a half years. Keep up the good work!

the fact is war was manipulated by this term to strengthen the grip government has over the people. if you examine history you will notice a trend of power shifting one way or another when one group gains to much leverage. It may take some time, but the people will revolt and take back their rights

And Jack,

Bush had the nerve to sentence some one to death for war crimes.

What about he and Cheney go before an army tribune for murder of our sons and daughters in Iraq.

It means the chickens are coming home to roost – especially since Judge Bates was a Bush appointee.
Teri
Palm Coast, FL

It is way too late to fix the problem. What's the point in "shutting the barn door after the horse is out". The damage is done and is not likely to be repaired.

It means that he and "his people" are not above the law, and perhaps that the check and balance system does work!

President Bush is not afraid of the ruling by Judge Bates. The administration will appeal the ruling and probably win. No one so far as been able to do anything with Bush and his team. They appear to be immune to all laws of this land. Everybody thought Nixon was close to wearing a crown! George Bush has almost worn his crown out because he's had it on so long. Nancy Pelosi has disappointed us all and she will not do anything. She thinks that once we get Bush out of office that the American people will forgive and forget all that Bush and his cronies have done. She's is setting a bad example for women in government.

Finally! I don't think even the Supreme Court will overrule this decision. Kennedy, at least, may have a shred of conscience and remorse for what he has done to his country by his support of Bush's installation in the Presidency. Unfortunately, Scalia and Co. are beyond either conscience of remorse.

not a whole lot. if they ever are hauled in front of congress, you know what will happen. they will lie, deflect, say they can't remember or whatever else they have to do. even if anyone is sent to the country club for a few months,they will be looked out for, especially if mccain is elected.

It means nothing.

This will eventually end up before his buddies in the Supreme Court, who will obligingly agree with him.

Something new for his Presidency – A bit of truth!
Bonifay FL

Maybe it means that the president's and vice-president's days are coming.
If Congress and the DOJ can threaten enough of the White House staff and get them to testify against Bush and Cheney to save their own hides, we might see justice served after all.

Heck! Just pardon them George and be done with it! Your the President!

It’s of no matter. Pelosi controls what gets to the floor of the House and she won’t allow it. Even if she pushed for it, “executive privilege” renders the investigation moot and puts a “patriotic” spin on their refusal to testify. Even if the Supreme Court ruled that Team Bush could not claim privilege, they can do what any career criminal would do and take the Fifth.

It is so great to see a judge with some real balls. We need way more judg like this judge. And do something for America against this Mafia style government we have had. Now lets get on with the crroks in the Sen and Cong.

I'm surprised that Congress has any powers remaining after the Bush (Oil) Administration.... it seems now that Mister Bush can declare wars on his own, set up wiretaps, and spend trillions without any oversight.

Mr. Rove must face justice. Why is he acting so arrogant and feeling he's above American Jusice? Why should he be allowed to throw political fist by his arrogance. This guy is not immuned to justice. He's on TV every night as if he's going free. No, this guy must be brought to book. Check him for the justice department mess and other departments may be full of his alienating policies thrown at this president.

I think Mr. Bush picked the wrong folks especially when he allowed them to suggest policies that would haunt his presidential legacy for ever.

Rove, please go to Congress.

It means the Bushers will ignore the judge because they have absolutely no respect for the truth, justice, or the American way. Thugs 100% of the time.

Jack it's about time that someone stood up to Bush and his gang of henchmen. They have took the American people for fools for to long.They lied about the war,now they are lying about why we should stay. The people in Iraq wants us to leave ,so it's time to bring our troops home.

Scattered feathers are usually indicative of a foul act.
Razicudlo (Las Vegas)

Jack, it means nothing. Bush doesn't care what anyone says and he and his aides and the GOP will just stonewall until he's out of office. Hopefully they'll pay a heavy price in November – but that presumes an electorate that pays attention.

It means nothing except another Bush "pardon". That lard butt Karl Rove has done irreparable harm to this country with his divisive politics. There was a time when this country was united and powerful. Maybe Phil Gramm had a point, we've turned into a nation of whiners (with a texas accent!).

With Pelosi standing between the Bush administration and a Federal Court, the chances of Americans ever seeing justice served is beyond dismal. And Bush/Cheney certainly don't fear this hapless and hopeless Congress. If we don't vote out every incumbent, then we have only ouselves to blame.

How would they survive if we applied to them what they approve like waterboarding and outsourcing pretrial interrogation techniques to a mideast country?

I would like to think it means that somewhere down the road, Bush, Cheney, Gonzales, et al will be held responsible for their actions.

Unfortunately, I can't really believe in that. What difference does it make if these aides are called to testify? Do we really think they will be honest and truthful, even under oath?

Come on – Bush and his cohorts have not been able to throw this country to the wolves by being transparent or by hiring people with an ounce of integrity.

Bush is the only person who can make me wish I believed in the Christian God. Then I might be able to take comfort from the hope that someday he will pay the ultimate price for all his crimes. But unfortunately, I'm an atheist, so I am forced to face the fact that no one will ever truly hold Bush accountable for his actions.

They are not above the law and must follow the constitution, which made checks and balances important.

Jack, I'm out here feeling really sorry for our country and its people. It is clear, our citizens are so polarized by party identity that they are willing to aid and abet law breakers. Why are the citizens of the United State so loyal to these people and not our Constitution?

It means that President Bush and his people are finally being held accountable for the the 7 1/2 years of misinformation and mistakes.

Was there really any question to begin with? Everything Bush has done he not benefited this country. Name one thing he has done that help Americans. If he told me that they sky is blue, I would not believe him. Besides the sky is just a reflection on the oceans and its true nature is clear, thats why we see stars at night.

It means nothing. Bush is above the law and doesn't need to answer to any court.

Who ever sais these "People" are above the law? That is what sets us apart from authoitarian govenment. or have the Republicans declared themselves the new aristoracy?

As the bumper sticker I saw the other day said: "Will someone please find Monica and send her back to the White House so we can impeach this fool?"

not a damn thing they should ALL be impeached

Jack, this is outrageous! If you or I refused to appear before Congress we would be sitting in jail the next day! Pelosi is a coward and Bush knows it. Who wouldn't thumb their noses at the likes of Pelosi. I blame Congress for allowing this garbage to continue. Yes, Bush has become drunk with power, just like a junk yard dog, but guess who took off the leash? Congress!

When was executive privledge extended to very minor player in the executive branch anyway. Its finally time that someone to at least answers a few questions about the last 8 years of failure.

It means nothing!.... because nothing is going to change!

They can lead them with subpoenas, but they can't make them talk.

Margaret
Boise, Idaho

I certainly hope that congress follows through. They have been handed a bone with this one. At least with congressional hearings, the entire Bush admin. will be land locked after the pardons. With the little amount of evidence the congress could squeeze out of these hearings, the rest of the world could hold this admin. accountable.

Now tell me again why the speaker took impeachment off the table.

It means that executive branch of government is ignoring the legislative branch. It’s not funny at all. At least the highest office should appreciate transparency.

What it means is that the House has failed, again, to perform its duty. Personally, I think the doctrine of "Executive Privilege" is valid. The people who give advice to the Office of The President must be able to do so without fear. But .......

What the Office of The President does with that advice is another sotry and it is The Office that must be held accountable.

Since Pelosi has taken impeachment off the table the Dems have given Bush a blank check and are powerless to exercise any oversight.

Everything Bush does is Bull, they should've just evicted him from office. Now we suffer for his mistakes & John McCain will only continue to lead our nation into a depression.

It means nothing, Jack. With all the people in his pocket, heads will turn and he'll ride off to Crawford .............

It means the decider and his cronies are not above the law. Now try and convince them of that.

I just can't understand how these people can be allowed to ignore the rule of law. The average American would be thrown into jail the second a contempt charge was declared. WHY should this be differenrt for people in the government or even a President? This administration has completely destroyed our constitution and Congress does not want to act on anything because it's an election year. Okay, if that is the case, let them wait and when Barack Obama gets elected, then put them all in jail and throw away the keys. Let's hear it –bread and water for all!!

It means Bush will have to give out lots of pardons. Sad but true. They're invincible. I wish we were members of the world court. Now I know why we aren't. I am so ashamed of this government. It's sickening.

they "can be" subpoenaed, whether they will be or not is another question. Considering how ineffective this congress has been i rather doubt it. Bush will get a free pass along with his cohorts, and behind closed doors will be smoking cigars with the rich elite who run this country. did anyone read Animal farm.... i see a great parallel.

Because they are who they are, doesn't mean they don't have to appear in court. If it was me, where would I be know. And if you have nothing to hide, what's the problem? Is there a little white lie going around. The court is here for a reason, not a pick and choose. One for all and all for one.

Jack, hopefully it means the chickens have come home to roost. The Administration is fully of criminals, who must pay, for their numerous crimes.

Another activist judge trying to interpret the constitution the way the founders of this country intended. Wonder why Bush appointed this guy? How did he get past that Justice Department vetter? Goodling?

You mean we can finally hold them accountable!?! Where do I sign up Jack
David,
Iraq

it means he's expanding his list of pardons and buying more shredders.

It means nothing. This congress is to incompetent to get anything I mean anything meaningful done..

We will just waste more time in more worthless committee meetings and do NOTHING as usual. Both parties just try to see what little they can get done by showing how busy they are in meeting.

End result - NOTHING AS USUAL

It means we might just find out if a crook has been in charge of our Country for the last 8 years.

It means that this should have never been an issue in the first place. The trouble was,the GOP ran the show and we all know Gonzalez would have never enforced a subpoena.(if he even knew what they were). I suppose it's better late than never,but,some of these disgusting clowns should be in jail. Just hope Congress grows some stones and follows through with this ruling.

Well, Doh!

Didn't we learn this over 8 years ago when they hauled President Clinton into a courtroom as a sitting president to testify?

The attitude of the Bush administration is outrageous!

It makes me hope, yes hope that just maybe we are about to be freed from the tyranny of the last 7 years.

Jack - It doesn't mean a thing for Bush. He's on his way out! What it does mean is we have at least one federal judge who understands the Constitution. Maybe he could enlighten Ms Pelosi about the Congress' oversight role. As for the Bush staffers.....collateral damage. They should have know better......but Washington seems to have an adverse effect on the common sense, decency and moral fortitude of the people who go to work there.

It means that finally someone, the courts, are going to make this sob pay for breaking the law so many times.

I was beginning to think there was no justice left in this country.

A federal District Court and Congress are all but irrelevant when Bush has the Supreme Court in his pocket and Congress is afraid to defend the Constitution. I'll bet you a steak dinner Rove never has to testify under oath.

Jack It Means as much as the Congress Will press It nothing More and nothing less

I hope Bush will have to live with the fact that all those people that he was letting do his job have already flown the coup and left him holding the bag. I hope it means that McCain won't be elected to put us all through it again, although in fairness to McCain, I don't think anyone now or ever could come close to the Bush personality or behavior.

Pat in Mississippi

Sure Jack; they deserve a month long vacation in Iraq.

I'm glad somebody in our government is willing to take action. Pelosi is a joke! Hillary would have had Bush out by now in her place. Pelosi won't even address impeachment and it's been submitted more than once.

Bush has abused the powers of the Executive branch and Pelosi has failed in her job to keep his powers in check.

What will it mean for President Bush? It will probably mean 'potatoe' with an 'e' . Thus, someone will have to explain it to him, he will say he didn't know that, and no one will doubt that for one second.
Trenton, Fla.

If the congress want to subpoena members of the administration about the quality work they do, they should first apply the same acid test to themselves.

It means that the judge doesn't know the meaning of seperation of powers. He must be one that Clinton appointed.

They might as well wait until 2009.

Hey, Jack, I totally agree with Mary Steele from Yorktown,VA. Lie detectors for all........I'll even handle one of the cattle prods it will take to herd them all off to jail.

Until someone holds someone accountable for all the crimes, lies and injustices upon this country by the Bush Administration, we have no hope and no trust in our government. Whether it be Democrat or Republican, someone DO THE RIGHT THING...and quit ringing your hands......WE WANT JUSTICE...let's start with Karl Roves HEAD ON A STICK!!!

Jack,
If the only penalty Bush's cronies face is Contempt of Congress – no wonder he can laugh. We haven't the prison space to incarcerate all those who hold the Congess in comtempt.
Take care, you do good work.
Joe

We do live in a great country after all !!

It means it's time for that extended stay at his ranch in Paraguay, the country whose president has vowed not to extradite Bush for war crimes.

It is about to let Bush and his group know that they not above law. They should be aware that they will be paying everything misery they caused to American people. This is just a start.

Diaby S.
NJ

Hooray! It means that Bush is officially a lame duck and his unilateral control over Congress has ended...hopefully. Its time for all of the judges to roll up their sleeves and get back to work there is gonna be a new sheriff in town on January 20, 2009.

IKts simple Jack – it means that for the moment, at least one branch of our government is doing its job. If the Legislative branch can't perform its obligation to the citizens, it is up to the Judicial branch to step in and make them perform their obligation. don't get me started on the Executive branch -

Wayne
Oakwood Hills, IL

What this means for President bush, "and his administration" is that congress knows that a time of cahnge is upon us, and is ready for change also. Politicians are going to have to become accountable for the decisions they make, and they will be held responsible for those decisions. Congress is ready to make sure that politicians can no longer skirt the law and fell as though they are above it!

Jack-
It probably means that there will be some untimely and unfortunate losses in the ol' gene pool to make sure that none of the illegal events that have taken place over the last 8 years make it to the light of day....

It means they still think they are above the law, and can enforce only the laws that fit their purpose. When is Nancy going to take control and do what her office is suppose to be doing, if they truly represent the people?

It means Bush will ignore the judge just like he ignores any judge he didn't appoint.

This executive rascality by the Bush Administration must end.

Alexandria,VA

It means absolutely nothing, nada', goose egg, donut hole, etc.
rove, cheney, (whoever) will ALL claim executive privileges. The dick cheney may even invoke his legislative privileges. If needed, he'll create his judicial privileges.

Jack, it means that one of the basic tenets of this country is still true – No One is Above the LAW. And while we know that war crimes or Impeachment won't come from testimony that will mainly consist of these stalwart individuals invoking executive privilege, at the very least, it might cause some people to think about why they are donating money for a library to a man who doesn't read, think or see beyond his own little world. It will hopefully also clarify for historians just how bad this president is because these subpoenaed individuals can't tell the truth otherwise the true waste of lives in Iraq would really be known.

Remember your statement?? "So? As long as the Cheque is in the Bank"...

It means nothing!!! The Bush administration are untouchable. They are the 21 Century Mafia that are above the law and they do what they want without any consequences!!!

Nothing, Jack, absolutely nothing.

I think it's time to try some of those advanced interrogation techniques.

sinse when does this adminestration care about laws.

It is about to let Bush and his group know that they not above law. They should be aware that they will be paying everything misery they caused to American people. This is just a start.

Diaby
NJ

My dear fellow congressmen, you are invited to my ranch in Crawford Texas for hunting and drinks. Don't worry, you won't get lost, VPDick is bringing up the rear!

Ely from HOUSTON,TX

Jack,

At last Congress is waking up and applying the law to Bush Administration witnesses the same as it is applied to every other witness in this country who seeks to assert a privilege of not being required to testify.

Every first year law student in the country knows that before a witness can assert such a privilege they must appear, be sworn and then assert the privlege. After the privilege is asserted a judicial determination can then be made as to whether or not the privilege exists as to the questions to be propounded to the witness.

I could never understand why Congress has allowed witnesses to avoid appearing by merely asserting in a letter to a investigating committe stating they are going to assert the privilege.

If the law were otherwise anyone not wishing to testify after being subpoened could avoid doing so by merely writing a letter saying I intend to assert a privilege.

Bob
Louisville

Other than show and tell for the Democrats, nothing will be accomplished. There are two cases that are pending that will say if there is anything to 'executive privilege' and having White House testify.

It means absolutely nothing to President Bush. He has maintained a "Monarchial" stance as President since the get-go and has no intention of worrying about what judges may say or what the law means. He considers himself to above everything.

It means that the Bush Administration will ignore the ruling and try to "run out the clock". So what else is new?

Nothing Karl Rove will not testify and Bush will not let him Bush is above all law. This group is very sick when it comes to obeying the law. They don't obey any thing but they want everyone else too.

This is all just more beating around the Bush. I think the American people know who the masterminds are behind the scandalous behavior in the White House. These stooges will protect them and themselves by pleading the 5th. Justice is not only blind, but now she has her hands tied behind her back and is being held captive by a pirate of an administration.

Not much. We have three branches of government, but they are not equal. Give it just ten seconds of thought: If the White House (other than Scott McClellan) does not care about the poll of public opinion, then they can always play the "I'll talk unless you pardon me" get out of jail free card. Pres Bush has show a clear willingness to play along. Laws don't work without enforcement. The honor system is especially ill-suited to Washington.

Jack,

A subpoenae mean nothing to individual such as Rove, Myers, Gonzales, Bush and and Mc Chainey.

There are all individuals of the highest moral fiber.

We all know what fiber leads to.

Excellent blog and show Jack.Wolf is good too !!!!!!! You're all doing a good job.We cannot go on like this year after year.We need a change.Too many American are suffering day by day.

Bush says that we must spread democracy around the world but he is weakening the power of the people here in the U.S. No one voted for a king. There is supposed to be a system of checks and balances. As long as he doesn't proclaim himself "President for Life" at least we'll be rid of him at the end of this year.

The judge's recent decision means nothing to G. Bush, because he does not care. He was put to the office, 7 years ago, for a different agenda and he fullfilled all his duties.

My answer to this and all Bush related questions is: We elected him twice, and we got what we deserved.