CNN

YES, Jack, the man is a crook. We are a nation of laws, and the fact that he broke ethics laws should be enough to toss him out! Anyone with a shred of decency would have resigned already.

I just love the U.S.A. Convicted felons can't vote but a convicted felon can run for the Senate. Priceless. Only in the U.S.A.

Audrey
Vancouver Island, Canada

Yes, Senator Stevens should resign. Even if he is re-elected, he should still resign. By stubbornly staying in the Senate he is acting as if he is above the law, and doesn't have to abide by a jurror's ruling. The longer he stays in the Senate, the more shame and disgrace he brings upon himself.

Jack,
Absolutely. I think that there are enough criminals in Congress as it is. Don't you?

If he is guilty absolutely!

I really do not care if he does, or if he doesn't. That is for the voters of Alaska to determine.

Ted Kennedy drove a car into the ocean and killed a young lady but didn't resign, why should Senator Stevens resign over a home remodeling job?

Yes he should, but he will probably lose his Senate race now, so he may not have to. If he does end up winning reelection though than I think the people of Alaska should just go without a Senator for a few cycles because they are apparently incapable of making good decisions.

For his party's sake he should; although I understand there are not any Senate rules that prevents convicted felons from serving. That was disappointing to hear for me.

Jack: Should Ted Stevens resign his seat? I don't think he has much of a choice...does he?

If felons can't vote, they sure the hell better not be able to serve in our legislative branches!

No Because I see a presidential pardon in his future.

Dan from ontario

We need change in Washington. Having Stevens stay in the Senate seems more like the old Bush boys. They never seemed to care if it was illegal or unethical, they were the government. It's time those guys were out and that includes Stevens.

Yes, return home to Alaska, and live in the house that corruption built.

If he is a convicted felon as you said, he should do the right thing, and resign. Otherwise they need to let people know that if you are a convicted felon you can hold a senate seat, that would only be fair. Crazy but a fair. Does this man not have any respect at all for the office he held?

Yes! For McCain and Palin not to call for that is outrageous. Don't forget, they were buddies.

He should resign, go directly to jail and not get a get out of jail free card.

Yes...but he will not...none of these crooks ever do and no one does anything about it. This is why voters are voting out the incumbents and if things do not improve in two years we will vote out these incumbents. Politicians should take note that keeping crooks on their payroll is going to be stopped by the voters since they can no way regulate themselves.

I actually feel bad for the old guy. Imagine...one day a insubordinate worker – whom you didn’t even contract, goes and installs a wrap around porch at your house. Even worse, you are so old and feeble that you don’t realize that you didn’t pay for it. It's not his fault...why should he resign because of a small thing like that.

MBG-NY

Yes!!!!!!!!!!!! I hope the court fines him the max. Jail time the max. We have a place for crooks and it is not a seat in the Senate of the United States.

I don't see why he should resign what he did was a little immoral but not to the extent of McCain's roll in the Keating 5 scandal where he helped defraud people and his wife and father-in-law made bundles of money as a result of McCain's actions.

Another very serious association of McCain can be found if you google John McCain & "The Project for a New American Century". These people in this organization are sick.

You shouldn't have to ask, Jack. It should have been tendered already. This nation is in so much trouble that we need competence and patriotic commitment from all the Republicans as well as Democrats. Obama is going to need everyone pulling together to get us out of Bush's folly and back on an American track.

Well, Jack, they say you are innocent until proven guilty and
he was proven guilty.
Of course he should step down. Even though he "claims" he
is innocen. Am sure there is much more of that going
around that has not been exposed.
Really believe that some politicians get to the point they
think they are Gods and can do whatever they want.
We have had plenty of proof of that they last several
years. And, there are many out there who publicly ignore
the laws, rule and regulations and are getting away
with it.

Of course he should resign. What other country on this planet is there, that allows convicted felons to run for office? Please!! Maybe pretty soon we can extend this privilege to paedophiles!

Ofcourse, we expect better of our elected official to uphold the law of the Land.

Jocely

Monsey, NY

I believe he should resign his seat since I am wondering if, as a convicted felon, he can even vote for himself one week from today? Could the Cafferty file clear up the confusion on this? Thanks!

Proven beyond reasonable doubt in an appeal then yes Stevens should resign.
Most people don't realize that jury decisions are wrong as much as Judge's decisions; and thus Mr. Stevens has a legal right to prove the first decision was incorrect. I personally don't care for Stevens, however that does not prove anything.
How many think OJ Simpson was innocent?
Where is the Jefferson case? That has fallen in a hole? Where is the Rangel ethcis (he's had several)? Where is the Dodd ethics investigation? They all deserve their judicial right to an appeal and to prove that they are innocent – if they can?
Joanne Buck
Minnesota

He should be in jail. But he won't resign, he's a republican and they feel they are above the law.

Heavens, YES! Number one, he's one of the biggest examples of why we need term limitations on the House and Senate, but number 2, he needs to devote his time to appealing his case. Although I agreed with the final judgment, I DO think that there were too many irregularities in the prosecutor's handling of the evidence and case materials. Once the appeal is over, he could run for Governor...they seem to like abuse of power up in Alaska.

Absolutely!! Let him appeal his conviction on his own time. He is a convicted felon.

Absolutely! I don't believe any convicted felons should be allowed to hold public office of any kind. How much are the American people willing to put up with? If I were conviced to a felon, I would lose my job. That is the problem, nobody in government takes responsibility for anything any more and they are re-elected over and over again.

I think Stevens should wait for the outcome of the election to decide whether to resign. He may very well lose his election anyways so what would be the point?

No Jack: Let the people of Alaska vote next week and remove him from office–otherwise Caribou Barbie will be able to appoint another Republican. Enough is enough!

This close to the election, I think the voters in Alaska should be given the opportunity to say if they want him in office or not. Their choice would speak loudly as to how the public feels about this sort of crime.

This isn't a very difficult question. So let me give a simple answer – Like one of his colleague in Alaska would say: You Betcha!!!

Yes. He represents what's wrong with Washington. He's the king of earmarks, he's a hypocrite, he's corrupt, and now he's a criminal. He's lost all credibility.

Jack,

Yes.

Given the distraction of any further legal matters associated with his case, how much time will he be able to devote as Senator?

And considering his age, he should focus his efforts on staying out of jail and building a bridge to Wasilla.

Yes and so should Palin. What is with Alaska? The rules also need to change in Washington. I can't believe this guy can still serve in the Senate. It just shows how backward we really are.

yes. no more corrupt politicians. others who should join him are: sarah palin.george w. bush. dick cheney. john mccain. these people do not represent the best of america to the world.

Yes, Ted Stevens should resign his seat. Felons belong in prison not in Congress

Of course he should, but he won't. He's hoping to win again because he owns at least one other home that needs updating.

Yes. And why is there no way to immediately oust criminals from public office? Forget the appeals, excuses, and pleas from their foolish fan clubs. Throw the bums out!

Why bother? He'll probably be voted out next week now anyway and a democrat will take his place – that's good enough.

Of course. Who would want a convicted felon representing them in D.C., especially one that has a problem with ethics.

It's time for him to "enjoy" the fruits of his labor, and other peoples. At 84, retiring could get him some sympathy and save him from jail.

Yes, but republicans tend to only cry foul about prostitution, infidelity, homosexual activity, drugs and corruption when it is not a republican elected official involved. Otherwise he gets a pass. I bet he wins his seat back.

Cafferty – every member of Congress should resign. They have all failed us miserably – particlarly your beloved Democrats. Instead of concentrating on Senator Stevens, why don't you spend more time on your man Obama – you remember, one of the candidates running for President. To start with, report what we can ALL expect to pay in taxes once he's in office – how does keeping only 37 cents of every dollar you earn (like here in California) sound? Not the kind of change I'm looking for. Do your job and see what this guy is all about – or are you just looking for another handout lke everyone else?

For the sake of the GOP, Stevens should resign.

He should go through with his re-election to try to keep a Democrat from getting the seat, then resign. From there, I think, Governor Palin has the authority to appoint another Republican to the seat. Who knows, she may want the seat.

He might pull a Larry Craig, "I'm going to resign" then later "I'm going to appeal." Tie up the issue for years.

But from a marketing standpoint, the Republicans have to get rid of him. The GOP does not want to be the party with a convicted felon currently serving as one of its leading members.

Jack,

Since you're the "maverick" at CNN, I would enjoy hearing your feedback.
Re: Stevens' resignation

Once the facts and conviction are established, this must become an automatic situation, to resign or prevent people from holding public trust positions. Why? Like it or not, public figures take on the mantle of role model, a living example of how our system unfolds. Maybe we can add a line in the oath that reflects on being a role model.

Thanks for pushing back.

Regards,
Michelle Cubas, Enterprise Business Coach

Senator Stevens should resign immediately to prevent the opposition from running attack ads charging John McCain and Sarah Palin with paling around with known felons.

He should be given the choice of resigning or being expelled by the Senate. If he has any respect for his office and his party, he will resign.

Definitely!!!!! He's done enough damage to the GOP.

Chris from NC

Well Jack,

I feel that ANYONE in the government that is taking "gifts" to sway their votes should resign. That is a whole lot of the problem with our politicians. What good are they if they can be bought off?

Too bad it doesn't apply to Senators, but he should realy be impeached. If Clinton could be impeached for not admitting to consentual sexual activity between adults (a perfectly legal activity) then Stevens should certainly be impeached for lying about bribery and other forms of feloneous corruption he has been convicted of in this case.

Why should he? Teddy Kennedy killed a lady and is still in the Senate! Senator Byrd was a card caring member of the KKK and he is in the Senate! The guy from Idaho tried to get it on with a guy in a airport bathroom (gross) and he is still serving!

I forgot to add that he should not receive any retirement paid by the taxpayers.

Yes, I'm sure he did a lot of good for the state of Alaska. Nevermind the fact that he is a convicted felon now, he's 84 years old. It's time to retire and live out the rest of his life with his wife. That is, if he doesn't have to live it up in a 5-star hotel prison.

Of course, Jack; if for no other reason to get the issue off the table for the McCain campaign so that the American public can concentrate on the REAL corruption on Wall Street, and NOT giving away any of the 700 billion dollar bailout money as bonuses to the crooks who robbed trillions from investors!

No, he should'nt "resign" his seat, it should be yanked right out from under him.

Jack ,

The simple fact that a convicted felon can not vote should apply to the candidates being on the the ballot as well. If Stevens is allowed to hold his seat in the senate we could end up with a system that allows those with money or power to be above the law. We all know that could never happen.

Joe

St Louis,MO

Jack,

If Alaska votes Ted Stevens back to the Senate and the Senate does not vote to expell him, then I guess we are beyond the argument that there is corruption within our congress and worse yet, we don't seem to care.

Please tell me this is not so?
Ro

He shouldn't be able to make that choice, he should be barred from running. While it's true his conviction could be overturned on appeal, it's also true that in Alaska, a convicted felon like Stevens can't vote if they're in jail or on parole, even if their case is on appeal. Even shameless hypocrites like Stevens would be hard pressed to justify how a felon can be a candidate even if they can't vote for one.

Yes, but will he? I doubt it. He is now a felon, worse yet he will probably be reelected by the followers of Sarah Palin. I'm just wondering why she stopped short of calling for his resignation. I think there's more to this, and it will come out sooner than later.

Of course! How would he even be able to serve if he gets put in jail for the next 30 years, as I have heard as one possible punishment for him?

No. He should be defeated for re-election and have to face the censure of his Senate colleagues during the lame-duck session. The scary thing is that if he is lucky enough to get re-elected and then resigns after being sworn in in January, I think Governor Palin gets to appoint herself to replace him. Talk about your bad pennies . . .

If he has conscience.

Fem, Knoxville, Tenn.

I think the standard should be a simple one. If you can vote for yourself you can stay. If you cannot vote for yourself then no one else should be able to vote for you either.

Jack
This guy should resign his seat, and not be entitled to a pension or benefits. I dont care how long he served in congress, he is a convicted felon, we have to stop pampering these people, they are no better than the average citizen " Joe the Plumber "

Yes, we are tired of lobbsts influence.

YES, he should resign and take Palin with him.

Of course he should, but I hope he does not. I hope he shows just how out touch both he and his party is this year. The idea to really think you are above the law. None of us are. You would think he would be embarrassed enough to step aside. But then again consider his Governor, if she does not like you she intimidates you, attempts have you fired, or fires the one who wont do her dirty work. This is the way they do things. No shame and no retribution.

No, just let him go back to Alaska and let him hunt Moose
for his supper! Maybe Sarah can drive him back as she'll be
going home after Nov. 5th.

Stevens should stay and drag the rest of the rats who voted for the Commodity Futures Modernization Act down with him.

Jack, of course he should, but he won't. Over the past eight years we have seen that the GOP never take responsibility for their malfeasance. Besides Jack don't you know it was all Bill Clinton's fault.

In the Constitution it states in Article II Section 4 "The President, Vice President and all civil Officers of the United States, shall be removed from Office on Impeachment for, and conviction of Treason, Bribery, or other high Crimes and Misdemeanors." Think Felony falls under those categories.

How is the man even allowed to run again? This is a prime example of everything that is wrong with our government. The man will not be allowed to vote but he will be allowed to run for office - as a convicted felon, how absurd!

He should resign and they should pass a law in Congress that if you resign in disgrace, you lose all the pension and health care benefits that goes to you for being a Senator.

Jack, if Senator Stevens' resignation would allow the GOP to put in a new senatorial candidate, then the answer is yes. If this is not possible, the chance of the seat going to the Democrats is essentially a reality.

Jack I think he should resign, otherwise we should allow convicted felons to vote as well, or better yet set up voting machines inside the prisons and make it easier for convicts to vote. But I'm sure someone will find something wrong with that idea....

It is the right thing to do. Then again, these days, politician seems care less about doing the right thing and care more about saving their power and position. So I am very doubtful he would resign specially being a republican.

- Nuwan from Houston, TX

No. He is some kind of a thief so he doesnt care about alaskans anyway. If they re-elect him after that then it will show they like their state being run by crooks.

The question should be will Bush pardon like he did with Scooter Libby ?

That's funny. Bush and Chenney are still in power and you think another Republican should any different? Their are only things congress knows: Convicted felons and those who haven't been caught yet. I am sure if finds Jesus the base will keep him...

This should be a no-brainer, Jack. Why is it possible for a convicted felon to remain in office, when it seems that many of our military troops may not be able to have their votes in the election? A felon is a felon, and with that, goes certain ramifications. If we can't expect our elected officials to be responsible for their own behavior, i.e., adhering to the laws that their sworn to protect,how can we trust them to perform their duties on behalf of their constituents in a honest fashion?
Christine :Waterbury CT

Yes. He would be making a mockery of the US Senate.

To preserve the GOP he should resign, otherwise Sara Pailn will be known as "pallin' around with corrupt Washington politicians" and we know she is an outsider, a maverick. I'm sure, as the new leader of the GOP she'll make sure he resigns.

Absolutely, anyone with a Felony on their record can not vote, therefore he should have no choice but to resign as he should not be able to vote in the Senate with a Felony on his record.

Yes, he should resign and give the seat to a Democrat, Jack. The more the merrier.

Yes he should resign, but we have an even bigger felon in the White House who should also be held accountable. I'm far more concerned that GWB will walk away in January without so much as a slap on the hand. That our elected officials aren't held to at least the same standard as the rest of us is disgusting.

Jack,

Do you mean Stevens is still running for Senate? Tell me it ain't so.
He not only needs to step down, he needs to get a speedy sentencing, a straight to jail pass.

Jack;

Of course he should, the senate should be a place where respect and honour are held in the very highest of esteem. He has violated the trust of all Americans – not just the good folks from Alaska. How many times has he had his sticky fingers in the cookie jar? – well seven that we are aware of – how many more revelations are will be forth-coming?

London, Ontario, Canada

More than anything it appears that Ted Stevens' judgement is impaired which should be more than reason enough for him to resign. Poor judgement led to the felony charges against Stevens.

I volunteer with a program that pairs mentors with female felons who have recently been released from prison. Believe me when I say that it's a very hard road for one to re-enter society. I was shocked yesterday when I read that Mr. Stevens could return to the Senate if re-elected and could only be ousted by a super vote or by his resignation. Come on!! The person I mentor had an extremely hard time with the basics such as renting an apartment, getting a job, etc. and will find herself burdened by her wrong doings for life. Where is the fairness? Mr. Stevens now has the chance to be an honorable man. Instead of whipping up support from fellow Alaskans to re-elect him, why doesn't he withdraw from the race and ask folks to vote for his opponent and, after a prison term, relax in his nice cabin. ~R

JACK,

I BELIEVE HE SHOULD, FOR HIMSELF AND HIS PARTY. WHAT'S DONE IN THE DARK WILL COME TO LIGHT.

Absolutely YES. And then never show his head again. This guy, king of spending our money on nonsense should have been out of office years ago. He can spend his retirement making paintings of bridges to nowhere that he fantasizes about in his dreams

Convicted Felons cannot vote but they can run for the Senate of the United States.... How sad. He should not resign his name should be REMOVED from the ticket because he was CONVICTED by a jury of his peers.

1. He should have the sense to know he does not belong in the Senate. His problem is he is so "mature" or aged that what he did makes sense.
2. Alaska should have some opinion on this and since they elected him, they should de-elect him however they want to do it.
3. I think he has just learned "how to do it" from all the hoards of elected officials who "do it". Some of them are doing time. He should be a good person to work on Wall Street in a Financial Management activity. Someone offer him a job on Wall Street. He could make a lot more money.

You'd have to go a long way to find a bigger collection of crooks, liars, and cheats than the US congress. Considering that, Ted Stevens is small potatoes. The only difference is he got caught. Seeing the kind of politician Alaska produces, he may just get re-elected come Tuesday. Let's postpone this debate until then, and see if it's a moot point or not.

He got caught this time but just think about all the years he spent in Congress and all the gifts he may have received and not got caught. To think that he still remains a member of Congress if re-elected and can remain there while his lawyers do their thing is really scary. I would really be interested to find out the total value of all the ear marks and what they were for during his 40 years in Congress.

He is one, now think about the other 434 in Congress who have had the oppurtunity to receive gifts and not report them. Wouldn't it be great to have people in Congress that actually represented those who elected them. Term limits, same social security we have and they pay for their own health care and drugs and then those who elected them get to vote on thier rasies. They are the only group of people that I am aware of except for CEO'S and other Board of Directors that get to vote themself's raises when ever they want it.

Sorry to say Jack, but even asking that question indicates a fundamental problem, that someone who has broken the law can still engage in our politics on that level.

Why then should we expect honesty or integrity in our elected officials. Why stop there, why should any citizen of this land uphold and abide by its laws... real problem.

Yes he should> The fact that his political machine can get him elected and the fact that he brought home the pork, is not as important as the fact that he demeans the political process and demeans honest elected officials, and makes them suspect.

As a convicted felon, he no longer has the right to vote. So, how could he ever be allowed to run for office?

His name should be removed from all of the ballots – and/or all votes for him disqualified based on his current legal status.

You know Jack, I have a recurring nightmare. Stevens is reelected and then the Senate votes him out because of his conviction. Guess then who would select the person to take his place? Can't you see the first dude as a Senator, or, Sarah herself in the job. Makes me shudder just to think about it.

yes...no criminal should hold office. Look at it this way, if you were running the goverment of another country would you want to deal with this known criminal? Would you want to be associated with him in anyway? Of coarse not and that means he can't do the job and should be fired.

I don't really like him, but I'm surprised he was even convicted after the jury discovered the prosecutorial error. An appeal is imminent. Let due process run its course first.

Barb Stevens
Caro, Michigan

Hey Jack, here's a question for you, should Charlie Rangel resign, should the other fellow from Florida resign. Where's the scrutiny of these guys who obviously broke their public trust, but their seems to be a seperate set of standards for them, but as far as your question is concerned, yes, Senator Stephens should resign and as i understand he and senator Mccain wern't on good terms.

Jack
he probably should but the hubris that led him into this ethical swamp will undoubtedly prevent him from doing the decent thing. He will stay in to win, and who knows? He might just get re-elected by those zany Alaskans. After all they elected a governor who favored secession, didn't they!

Paul
Arlington Texas

Jack, Should Ted ( the felon ) run for reelection and win, the senate will bounce him, so put a fork in him...he's done.

Jerry N/OK

Absolutely. He already forfeited it in spirit when he traded in his ethics for some lousy perks. He might as well finish off this disgusting chapter, take his punishment like a man, and then start fresh trying to make something of what life he has left. And he'd be well advised to do it while the presidential election is still the main story.

Your question is based on the assumption that he will win re-election. If he does, the voters of Alaska will be subjected to some very rude comments reguarding their IQ level by their fellow citizens in the other 49 states...... That withstanding, I would expect that the Senate would vote to expell him. ( The case is much too public for a "wrist slap" and a wink . The public would be outraged, and many politicians would be force to seek employment in the dreaded "private sector"..... AKA The unemployment line.)

Why, if as a convicted felon, Ted Stevens cannot vote for himself...why should he be allowed to sit in the Senate and vote on legislation that effects all of us. He should have no option but to resign.

Yes Jack he should resign then Sara can run for President of Alaska and he can run as her VP.
Paul
Round Rock, Texas

I certainly do believe he should resign. After all, we don't need a man of his caliber mentoring our young people. He should be used as an example for what happens to people who take the low road to "success" and try to get away with it. Also, as a felon, he can't vote so why should he be able to hold any office in government. Government is already corrupt enough.

It would be shocking to see a Republican take the ethical high road and resign after being convicted of a felony. It's no small wonder the public has such a low opinion of politicians.

I have heard alot about John McCains' leadership .... who has he ever led... he was a lt. in the navy .... the definition of a maverick is a loner ... someone outside the lines .... not a team leader or builder ....

Yes, of course; take the grand pension and health benefits and go back to the great state of Alaska. Like John McCain, and like me, Ted Stevens has had socialized medicine for many years. John has had it since he was born, as the son of an Admiral. When he went to college the taxpayers like my father, a laborer, paid all his tuition, room and board, health benefits, uniforms, books and gave him a monthly cash allowance. And he showed precious little appreciation for t6he gift.

We've paid for his socialized medicine every day since he came home from Hanoi, as well as his congressional salaries, perks, travel arounf the world, restaurant meals, haircuts, health club,even his stamps. So why are he and Ted Stevens so opposed to better health benefits for ordinary working stiffs, and little children, and soldiers in the field?
Seems they want "Socialism for the rich and powerful, capitalism for the little guy"?

Yes. He lied, he got caught, end of story. But now Alaska needs to look at Sarah Palin. How did she build a house with no mortgage or loan? And Todd got help from the same company that built the Sports Center in Wasilla. Is this yet another give and take in Alaska?

Why would Americans get so upset by a little scandal like Senator Stevens is involved in and then vote for John McCain. The fact is John McCain's involvement in the Keating 5 scandal was far worse than anything Senator Stevens has done with the Keating 5 scandal by bankrupting a lot of people.

By John McCain calling for Stevens to resign it just shows what a phoney McCain is with a double standard for himself over anyone else.

Actually Palin's abuse of power is much worse than what Stevens did because her actions took a person's lively hood while intimidating anyone else who might want to oppose what she is doing.

Personally, yes, I think he should resign. As a point of law, the Senator has the right to appeal his conviction. This course of action may allow him to clear his name on technicalities. As a matter of ethics and morals, he should really consider resignation to allow our political system to function properly for that state's public good.

Does a moose spit in the woods?

yes he need to resign. Really even the government need to be watched about there goings and comings. Not all of them are for
the Americans. They get into office to line their pockets, and the American people are the ones to suffer.

Other than professional sports and entertainment, I can't think of any other occupation in America other than elected officials, where you can get convicted of a felony and still have a job. I know people that were just accused of a minor crime (misdemeanor) that was unrelated to their work, but their work got wind and they got fired. There should be an equal standard in government. If he does not resign, he should be let go.

You Betcha!!! Jack..He was Sara Palins mentor and supporter so do we get say "Sara is paling around with a known felon.

Dah – if he's been convicted how is he going to serve his term? Won't he be in jail? If he won't, he should be.

ELEANORA FUCHT P- MOUN LAUREL N.J.

No: It's an American lesson that Felons can't vote unless they are Senators or Congressman. Being unethical and a thief is insufficient if you are elected. it is just the same old attitude that "I can do what the hell I please". 2012 a Palin/Stevens ticket where ignorance and chicanery meet.
Jon in Calif.

Yes. He betrayed the public trust.

Totally up to the people of Alaska. I think he is just a little problem to them. Their real problem is Sarah Palin and how she has used and abused them all and how she has disgraced the state of Alaska.

What a sorry state our government is in when you even have to ask.

John McCain would get my vote if he could find all that money that "trickled down" from the tax cuts on the rich.... John "show me the Money".

no i rather he wait and have the high drama in the senate calling for it. plus he will just feel nice to watch them drag him through the mud some more. sorry but i am tired of the status quo in politics i want them to suffer as the "real americans" do

Jack,
Yes he most definitely should resign. If he wins and is allowed to keep his seat what a contradiction! Convicted felons are not allowed to vote via this year’s Presidential election. However Senator Steven, a convicted felon, will be allowed to keep his coveted seat in the Senate. Senator Stevens should listen to Kenny Rodgers and now with the fold them!

Without delay.
He is impeding his states electoral process by hanging on.

He should resign, just like Rove answered that subpoena. The Republicans seem to think that nothing bad will ever happen to them, that they are above the law (not all, but enough to make it a problem). Stevens should resign, rove should be dragged down to the courthouse in chains. These are the people who are supposed to be our role models. These are the people who need to show by example the values and morals of the American people. Instead, we get dirty Politics. Stevens, resign!! and take Gov. Palin with you. When we see all of the ethics problems, The AIP, the house that Todd built with a few of his friends, etc. it makes one wonder what's next?

Yes and do so immediately. This guy is asking Alaskans to stand beside him. Corruption is what's wrong with governement. That goes for his Abuse Of Power Governor as well. Good writtens.

NO, Alaska let Palin keep her job even though she was found guilty of ethics violtions and screws the state out of per diems for living in her own house. And, pays for her childrens unauthorized trips, on official state business when they should be in school .. So no, If they are that stupid and vote for him like they did for her, let the whole lot suffer and freeze in hell or Alaska, which every one comes first..

YES.

Let the voter's decide.

Why should he? he was a crook before they found him guilty so why shoud a conviction change anything? He fits right in with the rest of the capitol critters.

I'm thinking we just put bars all the way around the Senate chambers, herd those dudes in there and call it what it is.....a den of thieves.

Jack,
I think he should have due process. Should his appeal be denied or the same guilty vedict hold. Then he should absolutely resign. If he chooses not to resign, then he should be removed from office.
However, i think the voters will make it a non issue, when election day comes.

Jack : Senator Stevens should be removed from congress ASAP.
Why there is a double standard regarding these cases?
Example: Detroit Mayor Kwame Kilpatrick is going to prison for perjury for a personal affair, and Stevens receiving gifts from oil companies in exchange of political favors (which cost money from taxpayers)probably wont. One man is black and going to jail, the other man is white and probably wont go to jail or have the decency to resign.

Stevens should resign or be cast out to the Senate. I'm surprised the "reform" Governor of Alaska hasn't taken a stronger reform position and demand that Stevens resign.

Yes!!!!
If convicted felons lose their right to vote, then they should NOT be allowed to hold a "Public Office" position.

It would be the honourable thing to do but then again is there much honour among thieves? When he heads back to Alaska tomorrow he should take Sara- the power abuser, Joe the fake Plumber, Ashley the fake victim and the skin heads with him. Now for the real issue, could someone please explain to Sarah and John the concept of cause and effect. Don't we have laws about inciting hatred and why are these two encouraging it....Their silence is deafening and destructive.....

I say let him try to keep running, let's see if those Alaskans can use the same common sense we use down in the lower 48. After being convicted of all seven counts of being corrupt, I can only hope they're smart enough to make sure he doesn't get a single vote.

Ted Stevens should resign. He is an embarrassment to his party and state. Further comment: if Campbell Brown is no bias, no bull; Bob Evans is no pork and no fat.

No, he should hold on to it and continue to campaign so that everyone can see just how guys like Stevens, Bush and Republicans in general behave. The GOP and it's constituants don't believe in accountability for people with an (R) next to their name, as the past 8 years have proven; and I don't expect them to change their stripes anytime soon. They havn't over the past 30 years, why would they now?

He should resign but this whole argument shows one of the flaws in the election process – a loophole which should be closed immediately. He shouldn't have to resign – he should be ineligible automatically for being a felon.

How can someone be ineligible to vote for the position of senator but still be allowed to run for that position?

No question that he should resign. It shouldn't have taken this long. Since they worked together, probably not very long until Palin is under similar review.

Resignation and jail time would be appropriate, that's what would happen to you or me.
If none of that occurs, and for some insane reason is re-elected, then he's home free. Do you really think those "family values" Republicans will care about his behavior as long as they can hang on to a Senate seat? At worst he will receive a censure.
Partisan politics has no boundaries.

Mark........in Houston

Can convicted felons vote? If they can't vote in a general election, how can they vote for or against anything on the floor of the senate? He should join Tom Delay and all those other fine young (and not so young) republicans who have been disgraced and gone on to careers as analysts on that republican propaganda dispensing network.

Hello Jack

Good to be back in your blog. He is old. Should have stopped this before it spilled overboard. But now he wants to run for another term of office. He should step down. Enough of scandals and bribes. Wish he had been forthcoming sooner than this.

Of course he should resign. It would be a little difficult to serve from a prison cell.

Should he resign? You'd think so, wouldn't you?

But the case isn't over until he's sentenced, and that won't happen until after the election. Therefore, he can still run.

After sentencing, he has said he intends to appeal; therefore, "innocent until re-proven guilty," I suppose.

So if he's re-elected (after all, he is from Alaska, where anything can happen), I understand he can show up at the opening of the next Congress and take the oath of office. The Senate could choose to expell him, but what are the odds of that?

But I'm begging the question. Any decent person would resign. And if he doesn't, he's begging the question of whether he's decent.

Jack - personally, I think he should be run-out of Washington. But, why should he? We have always had, and will continue to have, crooks, thieves, and common criminals in our hallowed halls of government. Senator Stevens may rightly ask why he should be treated an different than the others? (perhaps because he got caught???)

Resign? Resign? Why isn't he in jail already?

Jack, how many FELONS do you know of hold high government policy making positions affecting millions of Americans? Besides, you can't be a FELON and hold a law license. Does this also mean Alaska will take back his recognition as ALASKAN OF THE CENTURY ? If Stevens won't resign, then Alaskans should show the world they're not all clear heads and vote him out.

See this is why America is in the shape it's in now. One standard for the powerful and one for the not so powerful. Not a good combination. Those Alaska Politicians...tsk. tsk. tsk.

That would be like allowing an officer of a corporation to resign to avoid the embarrassment of being fired. Given that Stevens was convicted on, not just one but seven felony counts, the Senate should act immediately to expel him. He should not be allowed to simply resign and slink away.

No, because I think that he will LOSE his seat on Election Day.

If he does NOT, that will say a lot about the people of Alaska.

Hello,

I am an independent voter, and one who tries to look at candidates in a non-bias and objective way. I must say that the way the McCain-Palin campaign has consistently distorted the facts has greatly disturbed me.

Case in point: The republican commercials are saying the Obama’s tax plan will give “rebates” or “handouts” to 40% of Americans that do no pay taxes. My argument is that; is it not a fact the most working Americans pay payroll taxes? If McCain’s argument is true, then one would expect the national unemployment rate to be about 40%. To me, this does not compute. Is something wrong with my math?

I believe that Americans need to closely examine what’s being said, and cut through the fat to see the truth! The mentioned instance of distorting the fact, as well as other issues is the primary reason I am voting for Obama!

Yours truly,

Harry from Raleigh, NC.

Absolutely RESIGN!

Yes!

If Senator Stevens had been found guilty on 1, 2, or even 3 of the charges, I would say give him the benefit of the doubt and let the appeals process run its course. But guilty on all 7 charges? Please. If anyone should be shouting for change right now, it should be the voters in Alaska.

he should resign or be removed by the senate ethics committe,i believe no one convicted of a felony should be permitted to serve in the house or senate

If the voters of Alaska are stupid enough to re-elect him, then, No he should not resign.......people get the kind of government they deserve.

What message is being sent; if you are a politician and charged with a felony that its O.K. but if you are a regular person, you go to jail, lose your job, lose your voting rights…etc why are politicians given a free pass? Yes he should resign.

Jack

If it walks like a felon, talks like a felon, looks like a felon, it's probably a felon. Resigning is the right thing for Senator Stevens to do.

John

PS: my apologies to the duck

No Jack, Ted Stevens should NOT resign. The people of Alaska have elected two fine examples of governmental officials (don't forget Palin) that represent the morals, values, and ethical behavior the citizens of Alaska demand. Jack, could the bar be set any lower?

I think that the truth is still out there, he should be "Waterboarded" until he tells the truth. Thats just an interogation technique and not really torture, so it should be OK with him. While they are at it, there are a few questions I'd like Cheney and Bush to answer too.

Yes, but perhaps he would prefer the humiliation of being expelled. The investigation is ongoing lets see how many other legislators are involved in this mess. McCain has called for the resignation why hasn't Palin?

Does it really matter? Kind of hard to put spin on a conviction in a radio comercial. He will be out of a job next week. Now we need to talk about the government paying a retirement check to a convicted felon.

Of course he should if he is putting "Country First." However, don't hold your breath.

He won't serve a day in jail.
But, he should step aside due to the appearance of impropriety.
If not for that reason he should retire due to his age.

What difference will it make? He's 84, has nothing to lose, and has stolen way more than he will ever need to finish out his life. He won't get any jail time, so why should he care? We Americans must demand honesty from our elected officials, or demand they TRULY pay for their crimes! We need to make a real example of these criminals so our future criminal politicians can appropriate enough funds for luxury prisons. They would never be comfortable in the current accommodations.

He absolutely should resign on his own accord, or be required to resign. A felon cannot vote, so how can one be in public office. Perhaps Gov. Palin should begin be cleaning up her own state.
Salt Lake City, UT

If convicted felons can't vote, why are they able to hold office? Someone needs to re-evaluate this.

NO, he should be thrown out on his ass, and have his house sold and the money given to charity.

I say let him stay. I'm curious to see what the people of Alaska will do at the ballot box. If he somehow wins, it should make some good political theater.

Jack, he should be asked to resign due to senility. Anyone 84 years old who believes he is going to get significant personal benefit from a $250K home upgrade is senile and should be retired. If he's inocent its because forgot to ask for the bill! No wonder he wanted a bridge to nowhere. That's where he's been taking Alaska for the last 2 decades.

An arrogant Senator who's now a convicted felon, resign? Jack, where do you get such ridiculous ideas? Be still, my heart.

Stevens is the poster child for term limits.
There are enough felons in the Senate the way it is.

Get rid of him. He needs to be removed or resign. He should not be allowed to continue his run for re-election. If he is not allowed to vote, why should he be allowed to serve? A convicted felon serving as a United States Senator? That says an awful lot about our country, doesn't it?

Jack,
If there is a chance that in his place Sarah will appoint herself, then no. He should stay. Can you imagine Sarah in the Senate?

Anyone who would have the nerve to propose the bridge to nowhere, isn't about to resign. There no shame in this man.

Mitch
Fresno, Ca

If I understand correctly he does not HAVE to give up his Senate seat...He made his bed so let him lie in it...the voters in Alaska will decide if he needs to go...Mr. McCain, can you say "fillibuster proof"?
Thank you John, for denouncing Mr. Stevens...you have given the Democrats a chance at reaching the "magic" 60!!!

Without a doubt, and he should take Palin with
him. She is just as corrupt as Stevens. Per
capita, Alaska has fed at the pork trough more
than any other state. And what is up with mccain
the old man seems to be off his rocker.

Hi Jack. I am in agreement with those who say we should allow the democratic process to run its course in Alaska, and allow the voters of that state to determine Senator Stevens' fate. You can appeal a legal judgement, but as a Senator, you still must face those you represent.

Jack, YES, now they should investigate how did Palin built her house, and also McCain's involvement with the Keating scandal, these people should be accountable for their crime. Please people go out and VOTE early and VOTE for Obama & Biden.

No, he should take a cue from his governor and hold a press conference to announce how happy he is to have been cleared of any wrongdoing.

Boise, ID

Yes, for several reasons – he obviously has reached the age where he can legitimently claim "I don't remember" – what he did was un-ethical but understandable – he has served long enough – he deserves to retire with what ever honor he has left and Alaska deserves a new Senator.

Yes I think he should. Convicted felons can't vote why should he be able to run for senate if he himself has been convicted of a crime,Doesn't seem fair....if we the people are convicted of a felony we can't vote so even though he is appealing at this time he was convicted and he should DEFINETLY not have the Right to run! He Should STEP DOWN! Eric in Fl

this shouldn't be a question we have to ask in this day and age. Why should senators be above the law? If it was a regular Joe, sorry for the pundit, they would fire him on the spot. This should be the rule for every senator that is caught, cheating, stealing, and sex scandals. We need to change the rules for our senators that align with us regular folk out here. We get caught stealing,,,,, we go to prison.

Yes.

Time for something new. Corrupt people should not be allowed to hold office.

Well, if the people of Alaska are smart they'll vote him out in a week.

Or they take their chances with Palin's replacement pick.

I think when they are convicted of a felony, they should be automatically removed from office and lose any benefits. These guys and gals are going to continue doing this as long as we just keep treating them like no big deal. Yes I did say gals cause Kay Bailey almost became the first woman to go to jail for her crimes in Texas. She lucked out cause the people she had to face were Republicans and they let her off with a little slap on the wrist.

Of course he should. But he should have obeyed the law too. Hopefully the people in Alaska feel the same way, and cast their votes to reflect that.

No. He should fight to the bitter end and call in his long-time friend and protege Gov. Palin as a character witness.

Stevens should resign and Palin should now rekindle her position on pork barrel politics. Pork baby Pork!!!

Bill Clinton didn't resign or get removed from office, why should Stevens? Everyone knows that all politicians are just like this, but usually the justice system looks the other way.

No, he shouldn't resign. The senate should force him out.

Jack
Yes And with that in mind all of the Bush administration cronies who have been implicated in wrong doing should come clean about their crimes during the last 8 years. The need to hurry while they still have time to get on W's list of pardons.

Jack,

No, he should not resign.

The longer he does not resign, the more this becomes a story that will adversely affect Republicans, especially Ms Palin, since she is also a Republican from Alaska with troopergate dragging her down.

If a "real" American (not a Senator) was convicted of a felony, he or she would most certainly lose their job. Companies generally don't put up with convicted felons in their midst. Apparently the Senate is much more relaxed about its moral obligations, as is Stevens. YES! He should resign. And if he refuses to resign, the Senate should censure him and show him the door. End of story.

Stevens should resign. What he did was unethical AND illegal. What Palin did in Troopergate was unethical and should have been illegal. I think Palin should also resign. Stevens failed in disclosure; but Palin ruined people's careers and lives out of a personal vendetta and ambition. People are more important than things. I am appalled that the news media has let the Palin Troopergate debacle slip by and is focusing so much attention on Stevens who, to me, did the lesser of the two Alaska evils. By the way, I disagree with McCain that this shows the baseness of Washington; I believe that Palin and Stevens show the corruption in Alaska.

100% yes! If he won't, he should then be impeached. Is tha possible with a member of Congress?

Look! I am a democrat and I don't think the guy should resign. I have family that has gone through this so called fair Justice System and I can tell you hands on from experience. Senator Stevens should fight.

John McCain and Palin is using the man's circumstance to gain political points for being Mavericks. Well if John McCain wants to be a real maverick then why hasn't he called for the impeachment of Bush and why hasn't Karl Rove whom mind you refused and dared the legislative branch to challenge him.

I think we should leave Senator Stevens alone and allow the process to take place and the people of Alaska should decide this.

Also, Will someone please tell Sarah Palin she has some issues herself that she needs to accept..TROOPERGATE. When did she become a model of ethics

Yes, he should resign. It's absurd that a convicted felon cannot vote in this country, but can run for office. Think about it; he cannot even vote for himself!

Additionally, why would the state of Alaska expect him not to exhibit the same behaviour in the future if re-elected?

He plagerized, which is a felony. Then again, so did Bill Clinton.

NO. He will probably not face jail time because he is 84. He will probably be re-elected because he is a republicans. He will be a living symbol of what is wrong in USA where a convicted felon can not only roam free, but can actually run for senate. What more? He will get elected. Only in the USA.

yes he must resign and his pension should not me allowed. when a crime is rated as a felony any government worker must loss ther pension. the congress must go back and rewrite the law and take away the grandfather law. the biggest thing is we need term limits and no pension at the end for these elected positions.

Hey Jack...Oh HELL yes he should resign, and forfeit his pension. Its the RIGHT thing to do.

Jack, It woud seem the best course of action. At the same time we should take a long look at Palin. Her activities do leave a lot of questions. She was found guilt of Ethics violations and is still under investigation. She has some very dangerous contact with the AIP a hate groupu that is a real terrorest threat.

Innocent until proven guilty? Well, now that we've settled the question is: how many MORE crooks does the US want in its senate?

No, Jack. There's no need for him to resign since he's going to lose his comfortable, self-warming, shiatsu-massage senate seat (courtesy of big oil) on Nov 4th anyway. He might was well lose the election with 30% of the vote rather than 0%.
PS – Please air my comment. It is funny.

Did Palin abuse her power? Did Bush commit crimes? Did Cheney make sure his friend's pockets were full? Did the Republicans make America the laughing stock? YES! YES! YES! YES! YES!

Wildwood Crest, NJ

Shure, so he can relax on a beach some where at tax payers expence. Why do we let crooks do this?

Resign or be removed by the Senate... whichever would result in Stevens loosing his lucrative life long senate pension!

He should, but you know he will not. And as for Sen McCain's calling for his resignation, well that was a decent move by McCain, except that his running mate has also been "convicted" of violating the state's ethics law and nothing has been said about that. Also, Sen Stevens is running for office for his own self interests and certainly won't do anything honorable.

Good question, Jack. But ya know doing the right or honorable thing just ain't in the Rethuglican Play book...ask Carl Rove about that. It's all about lies, cheating, and taking money under the tables that really count.

Not yet let him lose it dishonorably. Then he'll be gone for good and the Dems will be closer to a 60 seat majority. Otherwise, if he quits before the election, Sara can appoint another Republican to replace him.

If he doesnt leave Jack, just kick him out of the senate.

No resignation. Ted Stevens should renounce the Republican Party; switch to the Democrats; and everyone will look the other way.

Nah, all we need to do is set up a closed circuit television system between the Capitol building, the White House, and federal prison. That's where a bunch of them end up anyway.

What does it matter? Bush will pardon him

I most states, you can't vote if you have comitted a felony.
How the Hell can you be a senator???

David
Bella Vista, AR.

Of course he should but, he won't. You see they see things a little differently up there. Like Palin seeing a report that says she was in violation of the law as a report that cleared her. Not enough sunshine up there.

No Jack, he shouldnt resign.....YET! I mean, he isnt going to get re-elected anyway...so let it run it's course. There are going to me many slots up for grabs in Alaska very soon

they put the old corrupt guy up for re-ellection and now that they dont like the jurys decision they want to change the rules to make it more likely a republican can keep that seat. please.

No withdrawal of the scumbag and no special ellection if he loses.

Enough is enough – the cost of standing up a corupt official should be paid.

Senator "down the tubes" Stevens should not only resign, but forfeit that 122,000 dollar pension also. This is a perfect example of someone who has passed laws for the rest of us, but evidently not for him. Republican Hypocrisy at its best. Now, we have to pay this felon for the rest of his life.
At least he cannot vote for himself. Then again, he might commit voter fraud too. What the heck.

You betcha!

If we the people are outraged at Senator's Steven's ability to continue gettings his pension after being found guilty then we should only look toward ourselves for blame. We (the people) must hold our senators and congressmen responsibile for the ethics reform that will punish by suspension, jail time, and fortiture of pensions for any conviction of a felony.

Yes, he should. and the fact that he's a convicted felon should also be placed next to his name of the Alaska ballot.

Oops. I almost fogot–as a convicted felon, will he still be allowed to vote on Tuesday anyway?

Pat
Barnwell,SC

Jack, of course Sen. Stevens should resign. Eliot Spitzer resigned, Kilpatrick lost his position, and Bill Clinton was impeached. I think these politicians need to learn that they are no different from any other American. They get there jobs by citizens of America electing them, so why not allow those same citizens to vote whether or not they should lose their positions after behaving ridiculously like many of them do. We all know how those votes would go.

Yes , he should. It is the Right thing to do. Besides, if one of the everyday people were to lie under oath, they would probably throw away the key after throwing us in to the jail.!

Yes he should step down, but it may give Gov. Palin a chance to step into the Senator's vacant seat, think of the possibilties getting into the Senate using 4 years to prepare for 2012.

Wow, Mr. Cafferty.

Your hate for Sarah Palin knows no bounds at all, does it? You talk about McCain, and you bash Palin. You talk about Jack Murtha, and you bash Palin. You talk about Ted Stevens, and you bash Palin.

Is this an issue of personal hatred or just insane jealousy? I will pay money to watch you start crying on Nov. 5th or 6th when the votes are tallied and the exit polls are wrong again.

hi jack
no,then we would have to deal with Palin in the senate and we all know where that would lead us.she will have another chance to use her power and we know how power hungry she is.
clearwater,fl

Felon: I came to use my vote right
Election officer: you cant because you are a convicted felon
Felon: ok, then i run for senate
Election officer: sure you can.(with 2 thumbs up and a winck)

Stevens is now a convicted felon and consequently no longer eligible to vote in most states, including Alaska. He should no longer be voting in the United States Senate either.

It is absolutely amazing that this man has no shame! It would be even more amazing if the citizens of Alaska would reelect that old man with this conviction. He says he is going to fight the verdict. Well, that will then leave him distracted from his duties, to say the least. Either way, I see no value in reelection for the people of Alaska, OR for the Republican Party.

Since a convicted felon can't vote he should be thrown out of the Senate. If he does not resign. That goes for any congress person CONVICTED of a felony.

Does it matter whether he resigns or is voted out? Stick a fork in the Senator, he is as done as a Turkey on Thanksgiving Day. And he should be, done that is.

Back in the early 80's under the Reagan Govt, the Earned Income Tax Credit (EIC) was created. This credit was based on taxing the rich and redistribute the wealth to the poor, even to those who did not pay any taxes. Was the Reagan Govt Socialist? Why them is Obama labeled as a Socialist for providing tax cuts for 95% of Taxpayers.

Sen.Stevens spent too many years letting lobbyist dip their hands into the taxpayers pocket and taking favors in return. From his own mouth in wiretaps he said the worst was that "they might have to pay a fine and spend some time in jail", no innocent man makes a statement like that.

Here is a shinning example of corruption in Washington and what voters are tired of and why the republican brand is so damaged.

I'm pretty sure, as a convited felon, that if he can't vote for himself he shouldn't be allowed to run for office.

Jack,
Let the voters decide next Tuesday. I'll be interested to see if the citizens of Alaska can get their heads out of the sand and at least remove ONE of their embarrassments from the government.

Stevens should at least have the courtesy to wait until Scooter Libby gets pardoned before he resigns.
Sterling Greenwood/Aspen

Yes and he should take the other person found quilty of abusing her authority with him.

Resign immediately Ted. We have enough unconvicted criminals in congress without adding a true convict.

Why shoud he. Isn't he the same as most of the other senators, the one big difference being Stevens 'got caught'!

Let the voters decide.

I don't see why he should Jack, I mean he was exonerated from all wrong doing right? At leat that is how Governor Palin would put it.

Absolutely, he should resign. What a terrific double standard–convicted felons cannot vote, but convicted fleons are allowed to continue to run for the senate.

Of course he should resign, Jack. Seems that "up there in Alaska" politicians do what they want without many, if any, restrictions. Seems that "ethical" has a different meaning in our arctic state than in the "lower 48." With Stevens' conviction in addition to Palin's ethics problems, the state should impeach them if there is no resignation.
Robin in Greenville, SC

He shouldn't resign. He should be tarred and feathered.

Jack: What is it with Alaska officials and ethical violations? Is there something in the water up there!!

Jack, of course he should not step down. He should continue to campaign, win, and then get oustered by a 2/3 Senate majority vote. It will be so much sweeter that way!

Yes, he should resign. This is the United States of America and we have standards. Convicted felons have no place the US Senate. If he wins his appeal, then he can run again.

Sarah Palin, palling around with felons – her mentor – taught her everything she knows about lying. He should have resigned the day the fed's caught him.

Jack - I think Alaska should secede and he and Palin can run the joint.

YES!

Gee why should he. All he did was betray he trust of the people who voted him into office, use his position for illegal personal gain, and get convicted. He has a long, long way to go before that disqualifies him to hold public office, according to the current standards.

If he were innocent, he should have been above reproach in the first place. There was enough evidence to bring him to trial. There was enough evidence to find him guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. Who is he helping by staying in office now? This man needs to resign now.

If he had a decent bone in his body, he would, but it really doesn't matter. There's no way he'll get re-elected. Even by the "real" Americans in Alaska.

In Florida, Stevens would now not be able to vote for himself because he is a convicted felon. So, if he can't vote in most states, why should he be allowed to stay in the Senate? When he heads back to Alaska, would he please take that female pitbull they call a governor back with him? They should also be a muzzle on her – that's what they do with a dog that keeps barking long after it's time to shut up.

It's hard to get a job as a convicted felon.

Stevens better keep his Senate job to keep raking in the bucks.

Yes, Jack, he should resign. That's a no-brainer. What a dumb question!

I don't think he should resign. I think the people of Alaska should vote him out of office. If the people of Alaska can't get that right, they should be forced to deal with a crooked politician in their midst.

However, if he is re-elected, all privledges he has acrued throughout his many years of service should be revoked. He should be treated as a "newby" and his power/influence stripped from his position. His pension should be suspended indefinitely and he should be banned from holding committee membership on all financial and ethical boards in Congress.

He doesn't need to voluntarily resign Jack because he won't be re-elected. If he is re-elected, it will go to show the people of Alaska are no smarter than Sarah Palin.

If you can sail the ship to reck then you also reck with it, and when such thing happen well stevens good luck you ganna need it sir. Vote Obama/ Jamaican for Obama. Cool runnings star!!

No !! He SHOULD NOT resign... if he did that then Sara Palin would be able to chose his successor.
Let him lose his last election fair and square to the Mayor of Anchorage.

Sure he should resign!!! He is a crook who doesn't feel that he has to comply with the law. You know, though, President Bush and Vice-President Cheney have done the same thing without being called on their actions so I guess it is OK to let Stevens stay in office!

After looking at a comparison of the facts stated by both candidates regarding their speeches yesterday, McCain continues to lie or stretch the truth (shown as misleading) so the character of the Republican politicians shows that corrupting, lies and mis-statements are all OK. After all, ITS JUST POLITICS!!!!!!

When I was raised, in a stable family I might add, I was taught that lying and deceitful actions are wrong. What has happened in this country?

He should, but of course he won't. Instead, he'll appeal his case and cause the taxpayers to shell out even more money on his sorry carcass.

Without question. This is a senior senator who knows damned well where the line between honesty and dishonesty is drawn. He knowingly and willfully crossed that line for his own personal gain. Why he is not in jail right now is beyond me. Why he is still a senator is further beyond me. Why he is still running is even further beyond belief. It also puzzles me that there are those in Alaska who defend him as a great senator and one of Alaska's greatest benefactors. He is a crook now and was during his tenure and should be treated as such. There are no excuses for his criminal behavior toward the American public. No felon should be alolowed public office.

Thom
Negaunee, MI

Jack, Senator Stevens was one of two senators which vied for congrassional earmarks for the bridge to nowhere. Only after Palin sniffed the winds of Alaskan dissent and only after congess pulled the funding to go to Louisiana instead, did Palin say, "Thanks, but no thanks."

Recently, an AP investigation team uncovered that Palin tilted the bidding process for her signature project (yet undetermined if it will ever be built), the natural gas pipeline from AK to the lower 48. Gosh, gee Jack, they also found that four years earlier, TransCanada would have built it without Alaska subsidy. Not $1, nada. But now, they are going to get $500 million. Now that's a whole lota mooseburgers, don't ya know?

So, my guess is this, Senator Stevens will be a freed felon, or will have to pay for his freedom from millions he has stashed away somewhere. Somehow he is tied to the Gov, but it could be a while before the likes of the senator will be dealt with. I"m sure she has a few Repuddities she needs to pardon before joe long-arm-of-the-law unravels all her lies and unethical dealings.

One last comment... Senator Stevens is so old, what are they going to do to him? Nothing. But if it were an average Joe , they'd nail us to the wall and throw the key away.

As President, I would lock up all the republican crooks on an island somewhere and give 'em a packet of seeds and a shovel.

Not at all Jack, but I do like the idea that he can’t vote for himself. Kind of Florida ish, wouldn’t you say? As you’ve stated, he should stay and be an example of why the Republicans need to be booted from office. Folks like Mitch McChinless, Norm Coleman and Saxby Chambliss need to explain how different from Ted Stevens they are and why they deserve another term. They have governed like Stevens has lived and deserve the wave that's coming. Besides, wouldn't it be nice to undo a lot of Bush's damage in Obama's first term? Without Republican interference, that's very likely.

Of course he should resign. But he should also be FIRED. How many of us would be keeping our jobs after we had done something like that? Is he so out of touch as to think this verdict and conviction is somehow not only excusable but also that Alaskans should rehire him? THis is crazy.

The voters of Alaska should decide if he should be a U.S. Senator. If he is reelected he should not have his current position in the Senate.

Well, I believe the answer is YES.
It's sad to see long-time politicians go out in disgrace, especially one loved by it's states citizens. But felony is felony.
It is quite possible that he won't win re-election even if he doesn't resign, making this a non-issue in one week(other than that little fact that he may get the Democrats closer to 60 seats). He should bow out now, though what dignity may be found may also be a non-issue.

no, corruption has been in politics since the beginning. everybody calling him(Sen. Stevens) a convicted felon and he shouldnt be walking free, funny, look at bill clinton, convicted and impeached adulterer. Dianne Feinstein, D-Calif., Democratic mayors of Detroit and Baltimore, Jim Cooper, D-TN., google 'em

Heck no Stevens shouldn't have to resign Jack. Isn't this what conservatives do naturally? All he did was lied a little. I mean a lot. But then again look at the leader he takes his example from. Good old GW. I think we've seen more lying out of the white house (and the republicans) the last 8 years then all of recorded American presidencies. It will be good to hear some truth again if Obama is elected our next president.

Jack!!
of course he should resign!! What I can't understand, is how can one,

who has just been convicted of "7" counts of felony charges, be

allowed to even run for public office? Is it me, or is it "Alaska", that is

really showing their true colors?

Hello Jack,

There is no question Alaska senator Ted Stevens, now a convicted felon, should resign his Senate seat, but that would take class, integrity and moral ethics. These happen to be characteristics that Ted doesn't have so I don't see that happening any time soon.

Heck, who knows, the public can be pretty fickle sometimes, why not take the gamble and see if he can win, it seems apparent that he is a risk taker.

Heather
Elko, Nevada

well i guess so .But maybe i am not from alaska and don't understand the state, palin was found guilty of ethical lapses and abuse of power there and replied to america Ive been found not guilty. For crying out loud jack the guy took $250,000 that they can prove . He should be jailed!

Wats up with Alaska, its senator and its governor?

Elect people with brains and integrity, people of Alaska.

Sheesh.

He's as likely to resign as Joe "The Plumber" is to get his tax return right next year.

Jack,

live by the sword...die by the sword. The Republicans burgled the lats elections on morality and virtue so now they must pay when they fail to live up to this high moral standard.....we may though need to order some additional swords before this chapter runs its course.

He should, but of course he won't. Instead, he'll appeal his case and cause the taxpayers to shell out even more money on his sorry carcass.

Of course he should resign and be jailed. To whom much is given much is expected. He was expected to be above the common theifs of this world and he wasn't. Time to pay for that great deck he got.

It's funny that most REAL scandal comes from some republican in office, ie. Nixon, Reagan/contra and the like. Must make the so called Christian Right very proud.

Tyrone Payson,AZ
A real believer

Guilty on all counts, how sweet it is. I would like to see him run and lose, and then he can endorse Mark Begich just before he goes to prison.., if Stevens bows out now another republican will be put in his place.

no, he shouldn't resign. let him wait for the people of alaska to stand with him. then he will realise they were sitting and watching a proud fool.he hasn't gotten enough blow yet. maybe he should be taken to the psychiatric hospital.

I'm not sure why. He's only representative of the few hooligans who spend years in politics who get caught. And as for character assassination, if John McCain has spent 26 years in the Senate and hasn't had "questionable associations", he must have been on a lot of holidays. Maybe that's why he and his campaign are so far removed from America's realities of today Perhaps they're drinking the kool-aid.

Naw why resign when the country is in literally a "bail out" mode. Instead maybe we should give him a pension and medical benefits for the rest of his life....oops I guess were already doing that too.

Of course he should Jack. In these troubled times a lost for the Republicans is a win for the country, not to mention a win for the Democrats. Hopefully, the Dems can reach 60 seats in the Senate and they wont have an excuse for not getting anything done in Congress.

Of course not. He's much more valuable to the Democrats as another example of Republican corruption.

Davis, CA

Jack, yes he should and he can do us a favor and take Palin and McCain with him.

Of course he should resign and "do his time" like we expect every other red-blooded felon to do in this country. That would be the only right thing to do. If for some crazy reason, Alaska still elects him as their senator, the Senate should sanction him so that he is prevented from casting votes in the Senate. It would be hypocritical to say that felons can not vote in the genderal election but they can still vote in the Senate. Since Ted has alot of friends, maybe he can get one of them to pardon him.

Yes, because he is a crook and he threw his wife under the bus to save his hide. Governor Palin is not a model on ethics either and she should resign her position as Alaska's Governor due to abuse of power. The good leadership in Alaska is not qualified to lead.

Vote people. Look at the issues, not McGimmick and Lipgloss.

Obama/Biden '08

If Sen. Ted Stevens does not resign and probably will not resign, and if the people of Alaska votes for him to win, then it’ll be clear that Alaskan people voting for him are not good for democracy and they should be treated differently from other American people.

He won't do time: Bush will pardon him before January of 2009. We can't have elder statesmen making bags for the USPS.

If he has a soul, he should.

Jack, understanding there's an argument going on between McCain and Palin on this subject whereas McCain says resign and Palin says no way should he resign; I think what's fair is to have a special one hour debate between Palin and McCain on this subject only, hosted by yourself at CNN.

Let Palin make her case to the American people and justify why a convicted felon deserves the right to be a senator. Could it be, she's just framing the subject to ensure she remains Govenor when she's found guilty?

I hope Mr. Stevens resign ASAP, but you know Jack politian never gets lock up their criminal act. They always get top lawyers pay off judges for no time serve......

Well, Jack, now that Sarah Palin has gotten the word from her puppet master that HE thinks Stevens should step down, now Sarah says he should, so I guess the word is out now. Guess Sarah can then get herself elected in his place, since it looks like her plan to be VP and thus "President of the Senate" isn't working out so well for her.

It doesn't matter if he resigns or not because I don't think Alaska would re-elect him.

It's good to have you back Jack!
No, I dont think her should resign because I want him to get his butt kicked in the election. I want his constituents to be able to show him just how unhappy they are with him. He needs to lose by a landslide...not just quietly disappear.

What a country! Aiks, au!!

Netherlands

Yes, he should resign because it is the right, conservative Christian thing to do. Otherwise it shows hypocrisy as a conservative. Being that Alaska is a near ultra-conservative state, I won't be surprised if he is re-elected. Gov. Palin, when she returns to her job after losing the national election will have to call a special election if he is booted out of Congress by his peers. He can save us all time by resigning immediately so the special election can be scheduled.

yes, because his action not only hurt himself but other republicans as well

Stevens should resign along with the other thieves you don't mention;
Dodd, Schumer, Franks, Rangel.

Its great to see the politicians paying for their greed of the past 8 years. Loosing congressional races and soon to be without a job or being convicted of any wrong doings. Now we must continue the trend, troopergate; investigate McCain's covered up 1964 naval base vehicle manslaughter and republican voter suppression tactics.

Oh my God. We wanted to impeach Clinton just for telling a harmless fib and now this guy takes 250K and the fact that it is a debate as to weather he stays or goes is just amazing to me.

shouldn't he just be downright expelled? or does the u.s. senate now employ convicted felons? whether the conviction is under appeal or not, he is still a felon now. he should be expelled without pension. or, at the very least, FORCED to resign.

- columbus, ohio

Yes ! He is a convicted felon. He should not be able to hold
any political office. We also need to change the laws. Any politician who is convicted of any felony, related to the office they have served, should lose their pension when convicted. Maybethat would be an incentive to do the right thing !

Yes, this man should resign. Isn't it interesting that the Anchorage Daily News paper in Alaska supports Obama. That should tell people something. Hello.

Why? He fits right in with all the other lunatics and criminals in our Congress. At least convicted criminals make the whole thing more entertaining!

Yes Jack he should resign. 40 years is more than enough! To stay on despite this scandal is just selfish and not following the Republican mantra of putting "Country First".

Stevens and Palin's abuse of power they are giving the good people of Alaska a bad name

WAKE UP ALASKA!

Ted Stevens must go! But, there are others (SP) She is stil under investigation. These are small fish!
I was recently sent the thirty-five articles for impeachment of George W. Bush by congressman Dennis Kuchinich. These articles are serious and crediable. I don't understand why we are not talking about them. I would like to hear your comments

Any Senator found guilty of a crime in a court of law should step down immediately - if he has any honor. Sen Stevens obviously does not, nor does he care about his constituents - only about himself and his career. Continuing to run for re-election is outrageous. But, things being what they evidently are in Alaska, he could be re-elected. You betcha

My state has been emabarrised by high profile wing-nuts and crooks way too long.Please Ted, show some leadership and quit.Maybe Sarah Palin and Don Young will follow suit; save the taxpayers the cost of more trials and shame.

Sure, Stevens will resign – but after the election. Here's a possible scenerio. He fights for his seat and wins by a narrow margin. Strong pressure in Alaska and the party forces him to resign and Sarah Palin gets herself appointed to fill out his term.

Governors have done that before. She's very ambitious for the national political stage. Palin would be the "most popular person in the Republican Party" Ed Rollins has said.

It is an irresistable opportunity if she can arrange it. It would prevent the Republicans from reinventing themselves. She wants to be the new North Star of the Republican Party.

It's plain to see where the wealth is being re-distributed. It really is time for a change.

Here's a thought to throw out there for fun. He'll hang on and hope beyond hope he still gets re-elected. Then, after the election, when he's forced to resign, Governor Palin, (who won't be VP) can appoint herself as a successor to fill the vacancy. (Presuming that is how Alaska fills its Senata vacancies.)

Absolutely! I can't believe it's an option for him to remain a candidate.

Yes, probably but I think Palin should resign as Gov. since she has been found guilty of abusing her power. That's as serious because she has broken the trust the people placed in her when they elected her. Plus she was in with Stevens...thick as thieves, I think...no pun intended.

Why should he step down? Every other Republican these days seem to be crooked as a dog's hind leg and in court battles? Republican's corruption sees no bounds and Americans are blind as bats not to see it.

No. He should continue to run for office. If elected, let the Senate expell him and then Palin gets to name a Republican Senator for Alaska.

Jack,
It's time to vote and just as we have the right to vote people in office, we, the people, should have a right to vote them out. Vote Ted Stevens out, without any compensation-no pension, no nothing. He should do time and find out that regardless of what these elected officials think, they don't have the right to steal from the people. He should have to pay back what he took and donate it to the American people he stole from. And put the rest of the thieves in a bag and send them out too. If he walks away from this, and if McCain, Obama, and Palin let him walk away, we have only 4 more years to realize it isn't going to change.

Barbara Pitcher
Cambridge City, Indiana

Larry Craig didn't resign, why should he resign?

Hi Jack, yes he should resign, unless he would like the public to help him resign.

Regina

I'm thinking that Sen. Stevens won't have to resign. I seriously doubt that a week before voters go to the polls in Alaska that this news will help give him any shot of winning. If he does somehow manage a win, that tells the rest of the nation an awful lot about Alaskan politics.

Of course, he should. Conviction on a felony and any form of white-collar crime should preclude one from serving in elected office. This should be a no-brainer, and that's a law I want to see enacted.

Besides, the ol' geezer is 84 years old. He should have left office years ago, before he was dumb enough to sell his soul to the oil business.

No, I really want to see what a White American Male can get away with, since we are the rulling class.

Senator Stevens should not only resign from the Senate but Congress should revisit the issue of whether a sitting Congressperson, convicted of a felony crime, should not be immediately required to resign from office. It should not be a situation whereby the Congress should hold hearings to determine removal of the Congressperson but should be automatic. Also Stevens and others like him should not receive one dime of pension from the taxpayers. But remember, we are talking about people who determine their own salaries, cut the throats of each other just to stay in office and care more about themselves than they do those they supposedly represent. Stevens and others like him give justification to term limits. The country would more than likely not be in this financial mess if term limits was already the law of the land.

Yes. But I am sure he is not the only one who is guilty. He is just the only one that has gotten caught so far.

Let's see Jack, the man is a convicted felon and somehow we are supposed to allow him to work in a government position that established the laws that found him guilty? This isn't rocket science Jack. I mean, as a convicted felon you can't vote, so why should he be able to serve the voting public? I think the real question is should he be fired from his position, and the answer is yes. Let him go about his appeal away from congress. If he get's that cleared up and his conviction is overturned then fine, he can run again for his Senate seat. Until then he should be out of this job, period!

Jack.....Who cares....Alaskans have the opportunity to reelect him or not....I don't have a lot of confidence in their judgement given some of their other choices....wink wink

Jack,

I think Stevens will give up his seat when the Dems pry it from his cold dead hands.

Jack, I say his Senate seat should be taken away and the old fart should be thrown in jail. Also, there is a lot more house cleaning and both sides of the aisle that I would like to see done. Heck, let's be sure to get some of the Wall Street gang with them.

Thanks for asking.

Since the Alaska State constitution says that elected officials in Alaska that are found to have abused power must be removed from office, I would love to see how him and Palin weasel out of that. Or will there be a constitutional controversy up there?

YES, I ALSO WANT TO KNOW HAS SARAH PALIN HAD HAND IN THE COOKIE JAR AS THE ALASKAN GOVERNOR?

As someone who feels strongly about our politicians practicing good ethics, I would say Stevens should resign. However, I would be interested to see if the voters of Alaska re-elect him next Tuesday. If they do, it would be a teling sign of their judgement in political leaders and might explain Palin's "80 percent approval rating."

This is the height of absurdity; the question we should be asking is why isn't there a mandatory expulsion rule for senators convicted of a felony!

I dare say there are many convicted felons who are more deserving of the right to vote than Stevens is deserving of the right to hold office.

Resign? RESIGN? Wouldn't an ordinary citizen be put in prison or at lest be fined and put on probation for a couple of years? Well, this man is no different. Put him in prison. He's too old to have any sex appeal, so he should have a pretty easy time of it in the joint.

Senator Stevens now joins McCain and Palin in re-arranging deck chairs on the Republican's version of "Titanic".

Jack,

Obviously as Americans we have come to trust those in power to make decsions for us at every level of government, when that trust is broken or that power is abused we the people have the right to call for and expect the resignation of those we trusted with our country, states and districts.To deny the people anything but the best possible representation is wrong. If you cannot hold yourself personally to the values and morals of the position in which you were elected then you should not run for office. We deserve to have truthful trustworthy people in office just as a matter of respect for the American people if nothing else.

Considering he was convicted, YES. Then again, considering his occupation, he does fit right in.

If he doesn't resign, it's just one more nail in the GOP coffin. The GOP claims to put Country first, but in this election, what the party has shown is that it's McCain first, Palin first, and now Stevens first. When will the GOP learn that divisiveness, dirty tricks, and lies are not what the majority of Americans want in their elected representatives?

P.S. My city is Raymond and State is Mississippi.

Absolutely! He should resign immediately. Just another crooked republican caught trying to dcrew the system. I'm sure that McCain and Palin are falling all over themselves to get him to resign......especially now!

Bill Clinton didn't resign the Presidency over his obstruction of justice, witness tampering, perjury, etc, so Stevens shouldn't resign his seat either.

Pliny
St. Louis

Hello Jack. Yes he should step down but honor ,integrityand character always takes aback seat to power and influence and elitism.

Of course! A felon must not occupy a senate seat.

A correct replica of reupb. brand.

azad, ny

Common sense says yes. Fortunately he has enough vanity left to get beat in the election. This will ensure a Democratic Senator for Alaska. It's also possible he would do that to get even with the Palin type of Republicans for flushing him down the drain. He may well deseve his punishment, but you can bet he will not go down alone.

God Jack..your questions are just getting tooooo easy...yes he should resign...and if anyone would vote for him they are dumber than a bag of rocks.

He is 84 yrs old..he should resign for that reason alone!!!!

He sould not only resign, but be striped of his retirement ( full salary $ 165,200.)for the rest of his life. In the forty years of his tenure, I'm sure he's accumulated enough money to last him ten life times.
Dan from Pennsylvania

Of course he should resign. It's the only acceptable course of action. He has been convicted of felony charges – there's simply nothing else for it.

He doesn't want to resign until after Nov 4th, with the hopes that Palin can be considered in a "special election".

One law maker passes the torch to another law breaker!

Yes! Senator Stevens should be fired not resign.If it was Joe American he'd be out of a job and worried about "Bubba"! Why are people worried about something so obvious? They should be worried what the current Admin. is doing in Syria and Pakistan.

What kind of question is this, every job I’ve applied for has done a back ground check and I’m sure being a convicted felon would be and automatic thanks but no thanks.
How on earth can a convicted felon hold a government office, but can not get a good job on Main Street? There are some serious problems with our laws.

He doesn’t want to resign until after Nov 4th, with the hopes that Palin can be considered in a “special election”.

One law maker passes the torch to another law breaker!

Spencer in Tallahassee

Yes, if he was an honorable man. But, having said that, this should be an issue for the people of Alaska.

Yes Jack, too many of these people are getting away with what regular people go to prison for. If congress is going to pass a bill on political corruption it should include kickbacks, which sometimes equal a senator's salary

Yes, but election time is upon us and if Alaskans have any sense he will not be re-elected anyway. Plus it's time to put 435 new faces in congress.

You betcha!
Stacy, Texas

Stevens should resign, forfeit all of his pension and serve the MAXIMUM prison time possible.

Stevens is an example of exactly WHY no one has any faith in our elected officials.

Dave
Mankato, MN

To quote a wise man, "The answer is DUH!"

Yews he should, when William Jefferson, D-La gives up his seat, or is it just Republicans who should obey the law?

Jack, Senator Stevens should step aside...do I sense, Senator Palin??

If this Guy, and what he's done was Barack Obama? Would you still think the Same???

Of course he should resign! I have the brain of a walnut! Love the comment.

The answer is stop giving BIAS! Nobody asked for your opinion. How about you report the facts?!?!?!

He should go directly to jail and do not pass go.
St. Louis, MO

What for? In just a few weeks Pres. Bush can issue a pardon for Sen. Stevens at the same time he will be handing one out for Scooter.

Duh! Should this even been debated?

You bet! And the Congress needs to finally put some teeth into anti-corruption laws and retroactively strip these losers of their pensions. That goes for my ex-congressman Duke Cunningham too. They rail about free lunches for the common man, but they eat from the public trough like a bunch of piggies – and without shame!

Yes and not collect his $122,000 pension.

He should not only resign from the senate, but from the human race.
Oh, was he a member of that contingency?

Yes, and he should take Sarah Palin with him.
What is with these Republican's from Alaska? First Sarah Palin with her Abuse of power as Governor in Troopergate. Violating Alaska State of the Alaska Exe. Branch Ethic Act. Now Ted Stevens convited on seven counts of fraud. The scary thing is, they can both win Nov 4th.
If they were Democrats, the race would be all over.

He should give up his seat right now. At least he will have nice clothes provided by Palin, instead of prison garb

Wait! HE STILL RUNNING? WHY?

No public official should be allowed to be in office with a fellony conviction. Most jobs that require a background check would eliminate fellons.

Felons can't vote, but apparenlty they can run for office in Alaska.

Mister Stevens no longer belongs in any position of government. As a current felon, he should be banned from the halls of Congress, to put it lightly,

Yes, Stevens should step down (or be thrown out). I read someplace that Gov. Palin also had her house built by "big oil"; is that true.

And the Republican brand just continues to crumble

Of course he should resign his
Senate seat. No question about it!!

Absolutely he should resign. Should Americans allow a convicted felon in the United States Senate? Why are we even asking the question? He abused his power, and should be held accountable for it. Alaskans should wake up and send him a message that they want an honorable individual serving them as a Senator.

NO!!!! Then Palin will appoint herself in his seat and wage a write-in campaign to stay there. That woman does not belong in Washington. Let him get beat fair and square.

Should Ted Stevens Resign???? let me ask you this Cafferty... Is the Pope Catholic?? That should answer this question.

Yes he should resign ASAP!!!!

Jack....DUH!!
Not only should he resign, there should be a law operative now REQUIRING

Senator Ted Stevens should go start to jail and his petition should be revoke

You are right, Jack. I can't believe that a convicted felon can't vote, but you can vote for one. Like Sarah Palin and the electoral college, it doesn't make sense.

DUH is right! This shouldn't even be a question!

If Ted Stevens had an iota of shame, he would have announced his resignation on the steps of the courthouse within minutes of becoming a convicted felon. I won't hold my breath for that one!

What a question Jack/
Anyone else would already be in jail

Of course he should resign, a convicted felon. How could he possibly even consider not resigning. Sarah Palin had to check
with the puppet masters before she would give her answer...and as you stated, anyone with a walnut for a brain would know the answer should be a resounding YES RESIGN!

Yes and the president of Fox news should do the same..
Wasn't that him with the sen on the f.b.i wire tap?
Just wondering!!!!

Absolutly not!

With the election coming to an end and no OJ trial to entertain us, we need a good Senate Ethics Trial!

Afterall – what will you and Wolf have left to talk about!

Of course he should resign. He should be concluding all his affairs and preparing to go to prison. He must not be allowed to remain a politician, after all, he's a convicted felon. He is not allowed to vote, so why should he be allowed to hold an elected position?

I am more concerned about Palin stepping down, Jack.

Of course he should step down and if he is not willing to, then shouldn't Palin force him out. Oops I forgot she can't. So much for all of her executive power. (Most governors would be able to do something about this issue, just not Palin)

Stevens will not step donwn so close to an election. His fate is left to the voters, and ironically as a fellon, can count on one less vote...his own.

No. He should not resign because the entertainment value is too great for TV. What is going to make us want to watch CNN after the election? I'm getting pretty burnt-out....

Let me think about that a minute, Yes where I come from (California) if you or I did what Stevens or even Palin has done we would be looking a some serious jail time plus a hugh fine. My husband and I are thinking of moving to Washington so we can break the law and get paid for it.

Should Cafferty resign his Situation Room seat?

DUH!

Duh, duh and double duh. Jack, if you or I are convicted of a felony we can't even vote in most states. Senator Stevens, RESIGN NOW! Boy the Republican's sure know how to implode don't they???

It's not even a question that he should resign. He is just an example of the GOP right wing corruption that is going on. I think Palin should follow suit and resign behind him.

Rick, San Rafael, Ca.

Senator Stevens should resign his seat, his actions were totally wrong. Why isn't there a law that once convicted of any crime, you had resign from public office?

I think Stevens should run, and not consider resigning until at least after the election. I'd really like to see how many Alaskan voters would STILL vote for him. It will be an interesting gauge of the cross section of the electorate that put Sarah Palin into office.

Ofcourse he's not going to step down. After all he's on the take, and like any rich republican – always wants more, so why shouldn't he continue to sucker the Alaskans into paying him?

Now there's a hard one to figure out....Like the song" Should I stay or should I go"?...Of course he should bail out,and take that idiot Paelin with you...

No. He should stay in the chair. WE should plug the chair in the wall socket and throw the switch.

Harry

He should retire to Alaska and be given nothing but his yearly Alaskan State Check taken from the oil companies profits and then loudly proclaim and decry the evils of Socialism.

Why is it that a convicted felon cannot vote, yet Senator Stevens can campaign for re-election? A felon is a felon!

Sharon
Phoenix Arizona

Jack,

While it is controversial, convicted felons, under current laws, lose their right to vote, pending state level decisions to reinstate that right.

This should not be a matter of judgment or voters will, but of law. If a public federal official is convicted of a felony, they should be immediately removed from office. No ifs, ands, or butts (typo intentional).

Of course he should...Saturday Night Live will need new material after the election.

He said himself that nothing's going to happen to him so why not lie. This is what they (GOP) do. He feels that they don't know any better so he's going to take advanage of their stupidity. Yes, he should step down but he won't. Iraq is a good example of what they (GOP) do; what THEY want and not THEIR job! Time for a CHANGE!

Oh Jack, Jack, Jack,
You forget there are a lot of walnuts in that far right tree.

Ed Liberatore
Burke, VA

Jack –

Stevenson if just following Palin's lead. Didn't the Alaskan senate find her guilty and she is still running for VP and loving it. The Senate will have to remove him after he gets re-elected, which i'm sure he will.

Sure, why not? Next, let's get back to the $90,000 found in William Jefferson's freezer. Maybe they can be cellmates.

After Palin & now Stevens, isn't it obvious Republicans are crooks?

If he resigns then Gov. Palin can name a replacement. Why can't it wait until next Tuesday after the election to see if the democratic candidate running against him defeats him? If Stevens wins and then resigns, and McCain loses, then Gov. Palin can name herself as his replacement. Yikes!!!!!

How can a convicted felon be permitted to hold a senate seat but be prohibited from voting? What a contradiction!

His arrogance and self righteous attitude is better served in prison not in the Senate.

Jack, it's silly that he thinks that he can get away with it. Unless he knows something we don't, get him out of there. When are we, the American people going to hold lawmakers accountable? Well, let's start with Stevens, it's a no-brainer. Even the bitter no-brain-mccain thinks he should leave. done and done.

The good Senator should resign at once. And, no jail time. Just confine him to the original small home he lived in before he added on with ill gotten gains. He can go to Washington one day.....Flag Day.

Stevens shouldn't resign. There's nothing in the Constitution that says he should. The only reason to resign would be to show some respect for the rule of law and the people he represents, which would be highly uncharacteristic for Mr. Stevens. The idea of him loosing an election seems more fitting than the feigned dignity of resigning.

Jack,
He is not just accused of a crime he has been convicted. He should, without question, resign!

Jack – Senator Stevens used to let oil company executives testify before his commitee without making them swear in. his corruption was bound to catch up with him. ultimately his own greed did him in.
he should resign and shouldn't have to be asked to do so.
brian farnsworth

The entire United Staes nees an overhaul of the politcal system. I am tired of conservatives who run on "family values"platforms who get caught in sex triangles. Im tired of my tax dollars going to special intrests and lobbyists who dont do anything to help me the average american. Im tired of crooked people having the arrogance to think americans wont know the difference when they have been had. Even Sarah Palin did a back track, but only after she was busted. They all need to go and we need to raise our voice against them. Vote them all out!

no, i don't think he should resign. what about the democrat in the south who was taking bribes and had 90,000 dollars in his freezer. he was given a high profile committe position by the bleeding heart liberal communists that are running congress. they even allowed slick willie to get off scott free when he committed perjury when he was in office. how about fair reporting and equal treatment between the parties. sounds to me you're just like them.

Jack, you are right. But, the Republican party up here in Alaska has a "brilliant" idea. They want us to elect Ted Stevens so then they can dump him. Yes, that's right. Under Alaska law there will be a special election in which a "proper" republican can run to replace him

I say, dump him and go with Begich.

Anchorahe, Alaska

I find it amazing that a prisoner in the U.S. is not allowed to vote, yet a convicted felon can still sit in Congress. Only in America!

Absolutely. Ted Stevens should resign and he should give up that $122,000 yearly pension. He is a disgrace to the democracy we conceitedly venerate as the greatest governance system in the world.

John McCain: I dont need lessons about telling the truth to the American people..And were I ever to need any improvement in that regard I probably wouldnt seek advice from a Chicago politician..[Id ask an Alaskan one...]

No, what's the point.

Its not as if there aren't another 40 or more Senators just like him.

Gordon, Port St. Lucie.

I cannot even believe that this is a question that needs to be asked; of course he should step down. I also think that the American citizens should file a civil law suit against him to be repaid for the money that was spent for the prosecution as well as the money that he will received as a retired "public official" $122,000/year. Simply amazing how corrupt this guy and many others are in Washington and Alaska !!

You know Jack during the Roman Empire "public servants' convicted of wrong doing could have their noses hacked off and could be exiled for life. Okay, so we can't do that today, but, the rat bastard should compensate the state and definitely serve time. You think that if I robbed a bank I'd be forgiven for it? Probably not.

Yes – he should resign.

Absolutely, but there should be a law or provision in place for this senator to be removed from office. Yesterday Palin encouraged her state to continue to support this guy, today shes asking for his resignation. What a flip flop?

Yikes, Joe!!! Of course Sen Stephens should step down – BUT – what if Sarah Palin returns to Alaska as governor – can she appoint herself to his vacant senate seat?? I might have to think twice if I were an Alaskan resident.
Kathy
Simpsonville, SC

I think it is very hypocritical for Palin to ask him to resign his seat since she also is still under investigation for ethics violations.
He should stepdown but hopefully Palin won;t step in..

Yes, unequivocally. But is there ever honor among thieves?

Is this a joke? A man that was convicted of fraud on several accounts and now a convicted felon? I mean he could run, but I don't see any way that he would be voted for to keep his seat. This question is stupid.

Unless I am mistaken a convicted felon is prohibited from voting under federal law. If re-elected by Alaskan voters, can a convicted felon be a member of the Senate? I don't think so. "Brain the size of a walnut", Jack you were being generous.

If you are a Republican, the answer is yes; no if you are a Democrat. If he resigns, then Alaska will appoint another Republican; should he not resign and he not be expelled, then the Republicans will lose a vote that is rotting in jail.

What surprises me, Jack, is how many people in Congress supported Stevens openly while he was in trial. And, for that matter, still support him.

It hurts me to say this, because I so badly want the Democrats to reach 60 seats – but as a lawyer, I know Stevens is NOT yet a convicted felon. He has a right to appeal, and no conviction is final until the appeals are concluded. I'm sure he's a scoundrel, but the Constitution is just too important to allow me to overlook his rights.

What is it about Alaskans? Palin was told that she has broken the ethics law and yet she is still running? Now, Stevens? Don't they know when to quit? Maybe it is the weather, too cold and it numbs everyone's feelings. Kudos to the Alaskan newspaper, for once , they know that change needs to be done.

Yes, he should resign. Can you imagine, if an average person did that how long would we have a job?

without a doubt.

Jack, he had the nerve to look surprise at the verdict......this is what you call the "I rule the world" mentality. Senator, stop embarrassing yourself and the rest of us!

Senator Stevens should not step down from his seat because Alaska requires a special election to replace him. It's much simpler if he stays in the race and gets his felonious behind kicked next Tuesday.

As a recent EX-republican, I can only wonder what Sarah Palin will have for us next? To think: This is John McCain's first "Executive- Decision"?

Just what our country needs serving us, one more self serving crook, and we wonder why no believes in our Government anymore. We had better get it together, a house divided falls, The world is laughing at us

I am an AK resident. I don’t want to see a Democratic monopoly in D.C., but there is no way I am voting for Stevens! I was upset when Republicans nominated him and he should absolutely withdraw from the race.

Yes, he should withdraw from the race and resign his seat. He is a crook, and a self serving SOB

Jim
Midlothian, VA

Not only should he not be able to keep his senate seat. Senator Stevens should not be able to keep his $122,000 pension.

I think I'll run for the Senate

It's unbelieveable that in some states convicted felons are not even allowed to vote and you ask if he should resign?.

As you said, Jack, Duh!!

Also, why isn't the Senate asking, telling him to leave to save what little credibility the Senate has left.

Jay Greider
New York City

Yes he should resign but he should not get the fat pension. He was to work for the public good but sucked up to big oil. He should lose his pension and live on Social Security. Let him keep the house. At the same time Norm Coleman in Minnesota has been in bed with big oil as well. He should go as well. What about the big oil guys that buy these public figures off? Where are they?

YES! Including any pensions too! If not, how do I get a job like that, I need one!

Absolutely. Congress does not need anymore shame.

Of course he should resign, the selfish man!!! If he doesn't resign, I sure hope the Senate will make him resign. Set an example for all the other "felons". Thank you!

Hello Jack!
Stevens is a pathetic crook who's trying to hold his seat because he wants to finish his house renovations! Seriously, may be he won't go to jail at 84 but he should use his massage chair for the rest of his life and have a drink with his old oil buddy...Bye bye Teddy!

Yes get the crook out of the government. He should due jail time for not obeying the law. He should be a disgrace to any government official and or citizen and be kicked out of his job.

He should resign.

Brad Neally
Mexia, Texas

If convicted felons can't vote, how can a convicted felon like Stevens run for election? Shouldn't a sitting Senator be forced out of the Senate as a convicted felon? Please investigate the rules about this. Thank You.

so as i recall felons cant vote but they can run and stand in office?
seriously, this is why we all need to vote, weather its for b.o. or j.m. dosent mater what matters is that felons should not be able to vote and or run for office! imagine if chucky manson could run for mayor and or senator and or president?

As an Alaskan, I have been ashamed of the Republicans for years. I miss the days when Mike Gravel was our Senator and still sane. But don't stop with Ted Stevens. Check into Representative Don Young and you're sure to find more to investigate.

Darren in Fairbanks, Alaska

Jack, you're the best. The IQ of a walnut puts words to real meaning. Way, way too many Republicans are causing an insult to good, wholesome nuts.

A convicted felon is not permitted to vote so why should Senator Stevens be allowed to continue to hold his seat where he would be voting on behalf of Alaskan citizens. Seems a bit hippocratic. The only good thing about him continuing his quest for re-election is that hopefully he will lose to the Democratic opponent. Should he leave now I assume there would be a chance that Governor Palin would have the opportunity to appoint a Republican to replace him.

Absolutely! It would be the honorable thing to do. To do otherwise would flaunt of in-your-face arrogance and hypocrosy. We don't need another one of those from the great state of Alaska!

Jack,
Going with your walnut theme. What nut ball came up with the idea that convicted felons can't vote, but this convicted felon Sen. Steven's can continue to run for a senate seat?

Yes and immediately although it would be hard for Gov. Palin to make redundant claims about balancing the budget (90% of state revenue comes from oil) because now she will have to divert state funds to building state infra-structure. Thank god, she will not be able to appoint herself to succeed Stevens. She will have to run for the office.

The very idea that this arrogant dinosaur would continue his campaign after being convicted speaks volumes of the GOP. What a terrible person, throwing away his entire career. IF there ever was a time for change it is now!!!

Absolutely NOT! Whatever happened to being a respectable and honorable representation of this nation? Is Senator Ted Stevens suggests that we're not deserving of someone that can be trusted? That all crooks and scandelous individuals are welcomed, in public office? What incredible, but sickening nerve!

Of course he should go! I can't believe a felon can not vote but a felon can stay in Washington.

YES, YES, YES he should resign and apologize. What sort of question is this, Jack? He should have retired years ago.

Duh–is right...It always amazes me how the Republican party will hammer any one else to death if they commit a crime but they are so sympathetic to members of there own party. He needs to resign and crawl into his new igloo.

Why does this man even have the right to sit in the Senate as a seven time convicted felon. He has earned himself a seat in Federal Prison and nothing less. What a pig!

It's hard to believe that you have to ask a question like this. If an everyday schmoe were convicted of a felony while on the job, they'd get fired. Only lawyers could come up with this kind of sidestepping manuever...

Of course he should step down and the election should go to the democrat running against him. Instead of doing that, you can bet your bottom dollar that the Republicans will think of a way to hang on to that seat. Hey, maybe Palin could end up helping congress after all. Instead of VP she could appoint herself to the Senate. Now that's a scary thought!

Any elected official found guilty of corruption should resign and not receive a pension from public funds. What's going to stop these people from engaging in these shady, hypocritical, corrupt acts if they figure all they'll have to do is pay a fine, which they can easily afford from their taxpayer salary, and then sit back and receive a check for the rest of their lives?

Politicians worrying about their good names, yeaaaaaa.

Not only should the old fart (Stevens) step down. He should GIVE UP the retirement he is going to get when he steps down. His retirement is undaer a grandfather clause, (Apropo?)

Just like the other republican rascals that committed crimes, Ted Stevens should get somewhere and sit down(like prision).

Jack – please read!

Mr. Cafferty – I doubt if you will see this, but I want to extend my deepest sympathy to you for the loss of your wife. I am so sorry.

Jack, you are my favorite anchor on CNN! I am so pleased that you are back before the elections! Only you tell the truth whether it bothers anybody or not!

God Bless! From a Christian Democrat for Barack – not a selfish, judgmental evengelical.

Betsy

You said it Jack...Duh!

He should absolutely resign and refuse his pension!! This should be addressed by Congress, to deny pensions to anyone in public service who commits feloneous acts!!

Absolutely he should, but arrogance will keep him from doing so. But my question is whether Palin's low key response to the verdict, along with the belated, McCain-directed admonishment to step down, begs the question as to why the reluctance? Does Stevens know where her skeletons are buried?

Is this a joke? A man that was convicted of fraud on several accounts and now a convicted felon? I mean he could run, but I don’t see any way that he would be voted for to keep his seat. This question is stupid.

Stevens should resign to show some respect for the country and its people. He has been found guilty. A crime is a crime is a crime.

Where WHERE is the morality in this county? Palin is the LAST who should call on Stevens to resign.
And Palin should resign too as she violated Ethics law as well. We want end the corruption in this country.

Vicki, NJ

Stevens is absolutely wrong, but I don't recall seeing any outrage from you or a blog on how Charlie Rangel who was caught for tax evasion or that Democrat that had $100,000 in payoff money in his freezer should step down.

Jack,

When you consider politicians and other elected public officials watch the President himself get away with breaking constitutional law on a frequent basis with complete immunity, it's no wonder that Senators and Governors feel that they can abuse their powers, break the law and expect to be exempt from accountability as well.

The system is broke. This country is headed for a crisis of epic proportions.

Thanks for a great show, Jack.

Hell no, let him lose the election, if he steps down SARAH gets to choose his replacement! And LORD help us if THAT happens!

I believe Stevens should be allowed to defend his seat under the precondition that, should he lose the race, he will forfeit his right to the hefty pension that he is currently and unfortunately entitled to should he retire now.

Stevens should resign.....but the real issue is HOW can he still run for Senator with a felony conviction (or 7 felony convictions)? We can't even vote if we have one.

If Stevens apologized to his constituents, sold his house, and offered to do public service, I could see him staying in the race. However, as it stands I don't think he feels like he's done anything wrong, and I don't think our government needs more people who don't have a conscience.

Certainly, Jack! Our public officials should ideally be held to higher standards and should be punished to the letter of the law, if convicted of a crime, in order to set an example to discourage others in power from succombing to corruptive temptations.

Yes he should resign and since 'his' house is really 'the peoples' house' he should not be allowed to live there until it is sold..... or after he pays the state what he owes.....

Stevens should definitely resign. However, he may realize that if Alaskans elected Sarah Palin as governor, he may get re-elected. But he should.

Obviously. The larger question is what should be done about the Alaskan Republican party that nominated him even after the facts of the case were known.

Jim, Craig, CO

Not only should he not be permitted to run but he should be forced to forfeit his $160,000 per year pension. It amuses me that politicians claim they go to Washington "to serve." Yet when they are convicted of crimes, very few of them "serve" any time.
Linda in NJ

Hey jack, if ted stevens had the I.Q. of a walnut he would resign from the senate

The senator can as always, do whatever he chooses! He can either drop now or after the general elections after he realizes that he should have quit. After all who cares! I'll be working for him free of charge if he wins!

Is that even a question? He should just move to Russia or somewhere to hide, but on the other hand Sara Palin just found herself a running mate for 2012.

Of course he should resign! And if he doesn't, of course the Senate should expel him. And if he doesn't drop out of the Alaska Senate race, of course the voters should reject him. But then, that's what SHOULD happen. In this crazy climate, who the heck knows what WILL happen?

Put up the bars, take away the phones and set up visitors hours and let him stay with the rest of the crooks.

Is it even legal for a convicted felon to hold office?
I did not think it was. Just goes to show how power
currupts people. Also shows how it becomes impossible
to admit wrong-doing when you've been 'in office' for term
after term.

Jack anyone that is convicted of any felony should not be allowed to hold a public office they make the laws in the house and senate but seem to not have to play by those same laws we are having the same problem here in Kentucky we have Carrol Hubbard running for office when he just got out of prison for serving time on 3 felony convictions I do not understand why people are not more upset by these people playing by their own rules when we have to abbide by the one they make
keep up the good work Jack

Kevin- KY

Yes he should, and also he should give up his government retirement. As for Palin, she did not originally ask for his resignation, and I think she had a reason.. the contractor that gave favors to Stevens is also tied to the Wasilla sport center, and the questionable sources for construction of Palins' own home, prior to the being awarded the contract for the sports center.

How can Ted Stevens not be force to resign nor go to jail and try to be reelected but the mayor of Detroit whom is currently serving time for cheating and lying (which a president did also) can be force to resign.

I think he should stay and continue running for re-election so that we can see the biggest margin of victory in a U. S. Senate race in history.

Senator Stevens might as well stay in the Senate and continue to collect his paycheck. The day George Bush leaves office Stevens will be pardoned and his conviction will be wiped away. Haven't we seen that before? The trial will not have provided justice, deterrence or punishment, and the taxpayers will be struck paying for an expensive trial.

If he can demonstrate he can walk on water he should be allowed to stay in the Senate.

The old guy should resign. Then let Palin run for the seat in 2014. the US senate needs more women. I would not vote for her for VP but Alaska oviousely is pleased with her. Give them what they want.

When the Anchorage International Airport was renamed Ted Stevens International Airport my son said, "Oh, oh. It's bad luck to name something after a living person." What do we call the airport now?

No, he need the money to pay for court costs!

God Help us.. but GWB will pardon him in January anyway...so does it really matter? YES he needs to quit.. if he had bowed out gracefully months and months ago I actually don't think they would have pressed charges... now GWB is going to make a mockery of the system yet again.......

He should resign but he won't. He is a stubborn old goat and they will have to drag him kicking and screaming from Washington. I apoligize for the state of Alaska on the behavior of our politicians. Ted Stevens , Don Young and Sarah Palin are all mired with corruption. Sarah Palin was convicted on abuse of power and ethics violation(The same thing Richard Nixon had to resign over) and she didn't resign. I did not vote for any of these crooks, but alot of Alaskan's did and I apoligize.

Stevens is a joke. his candidacy is disrespectful to all the senators who are clean out there. end of story.

Congressman William J Jefferson of Louisana is up for re-election after being charged by a grand jury for 16 counts of corruption. Jack where is your outrage towards Cong. Jefferson or is it because he's a Democrat and nearly every question you ask is framed to reflect in a bad light on the Republicans?

Dah!?! Even though he is innocent, as all convicted criminals claim to be, he has absolutely no right to keep his senate seat. Do not pass GO, do not collect $200. Commit the crime, do the time, no ifs, ands, or buts!!

He should AUTOMATICALLY BE REMOVED immediately from the Senate and STRIPPED OF ALL BENEFITS!

Yes Stevens should step down, Palin should also, its only a matter of time bfore she is caught with her own newly built home be that just happened to be built the same time that Wasilla Hockey stadium was under way.Palins door windows at her house have the same as the Hockey stadium windows. I smell a Big Fish or Salmon.

Like every other convicted criminal, he is not going to do the right thing, just what he has to.

The days of "special treatment" for politicians must come to an end. Alaskan Senator Stevens is now a convicted felon. Honor, descency and common respect for the citizens of Alaska and the United States demands this resignation. Show us you can be rehabilitated, Senator Stevens – resign and restore the ideal that public service can be noble.

It's no question that Senator Steven's should resign!! He was convicted of seven felony charges, which would mean, a very long sentence in jail, for the average "Joe the criminal". If he wants the citizens of Alaska and the U.S. to stand with him? Maybe, rejecting the $122,000 pension he will receive after all of this, would be a good start.

Jack - why are you wasting time with such a moot question? In seven days he will be gone anyway. If he wants to ride in the Waaaaambulance on the way out, who cares?

Senator Stevens' decision to stay in the race after his felony conviction is typical of self-serving, power-hungry, corrupt politicians. Republicans must be cringing right now knowing that they will surely lose his senate seat to a Democrat.

Pension! He (Stevens) should have to pay the federal government for the rest of his life for what he has done!

Whatever happened to the time-honored Alaskan tradition of taking those who have become nothing more than a waste of skin and leaving them on the tundra as polar bear food, thereby assuring survival of the fittest?

Revive it, I say.

Sherrie Geeting
Camarillo, CA

what is going on in this country? impeach a president for having an affair and lying about it, but allow a convicted felon make laws to rule this country????

Yes!

He should drop out of the race.

A convicted felon should have NO right in running for his position!

NONE.

Convited felons belong in jail, where they are not even allowed to vote! Felons who are in prison or on parole are not even allowed to vote, so why should they be allowed to run for or hold an office? Who in their right mind would vote for a convicted felon in the first place? What's this country coming to?

Yes, resign he should. I don't understand why he is allowed to go back to congress. In the real world he would be fired.

Respect for the judiciary is a core tenet of a working democracy. So when a court has found Sen. Stevens guilty of corruption, he has to respect it and resign. If his conviction is a result of some grand conspiracy, then he (and all of us) have much bigger things to worry about than his Senate seat.

Go lookup Biden's disclosure form for the past 5 years. His wife's income for being a teacher is listed as 1000.00 plus talked not disclosing the truth ( and quess what it is public records ) but dumb and dumber don't know how to look it up !!!!!!!!

How can a convicted felon get security clearance at the level a senior senator would need to do their job properly. I just don't see how they could? Something smells bag here.

Its a question that should not even be asked... Is it only obvious to ME that this man has NO BUSINESS being in office? On what grounds would he remain in this position when he was CONVICTED OF A FELONY? LOL technically he can't even vote anymore hahaha! Get his outta there please!

Are you kidding me?? If McDonald's isn't going to employ a convicted felon, why in the world would the Senate do so??

Ted Stevens and Sara Palin both from Alaska are both corrupt and should go to prison. Any politican over the age 0f 70 should retire

How can a convicted felon get security clearance at the level a senior senator would need to do their job properly. I just don't see how they could? Something smells bad here. I work for an airline, I would lose my job because of security clearance failure if I was convicted of a felony.

Jack:

The election is just a week away. Stephens re-election was close even before the verdict came in. If he were an honorable man I would resign and save myself the humiliation of getting trounced at the polls.

Your comment in regards to Ted Stevens and the fact that anyone with a brain the size of a peanut should want him out, leads me to wonder what people with a brain smaller than a peanut would say?

Well, Sarah Palin?

Gary
Huntington Beach, CA

The crying shame is that he will sit on his own golden parachute. Personnel serving in the military, even if retired can lose their pensions for a felony. Then again house/senate are also exempt for splitting their pensions in divorce too, unlike those serving in the military. Whatever happened to nobody is above the law and equal protection for all?

Yes , there is no doubt that Ted Stevens should step down. But unfortunately, because of the way politics is set up he has every right to stay-corrupt or not. Although, if he does stay on, I would be interested to find out if the Alaskian people would vote for him anyway just to win the republican ticket. A vote like this would be interesting to see if people would vote in support of "morality or ethics against Stevens" or vote for him to "uphold political positioning" to keep a republican in the senate. Upholding Morality and Ethics vs. political positioning. The outcome would be a great test to the voice of "tolarence" or "lack of "with regard to the people. How would a "base republican voter" vote? Scary....

Yes, Senator Ted Stevens should resign his Senate seat. He has been an arrogant Senator for all of these years and things have finally caught up with him. He was convicted on 7 counts as charged and it's time for this has- been to spend some time in jail where he belongs. How else can we make an example that crime does not pay?

Bill O'Neil
Hendersonville, NC

Jack,

Senator Stevens should resign immediately. He has been found guilty by a jury of his peers and is a convicted felon. He is a disgrace to our nation and the great state of Alaska. The United states is a nation of laws and if we have a sitting senator committing a crime and still staying in his position, what kind of image does that portray to the world and to our children. It is not ok to defraud the American people or the people in Alaska that he represents. Furthermore, anyone in Alaska that votes for him should have their right to vote taken away. That would be the most disgraceful thing in the world for a convicted felon, someone who has cheated the people get elected to such a prestigous position as a United states Senator.

Eric

Jack,

On this one, I agree. Senator Stevens should withdraw. This is who Sarah Palin had to battle along with Murkowski, etc. When you are in bed with bed with the special interests you have lost sight of what is really important, a strong vital america that is representative of all our citizens.

Clap Clap Jack..followed your news reporting for years and love your program.

On Stevens: He is not fit for public service!!!! And to boot a convicted felon collecting a pension on our tax dollars.
Forsooth. what have we come to in this country.

Well if he doesnt drop dems win so.. he shouldent drop.

Jack,

As a recently retired law enforcement officer for 30 years we were expected and required to be ethical, honest and follow the law which we were sworn to uphold. Anything less, we lost everthing our job,retirement and if convicted possible jail time. So a US Senator does'nt have to follow the law and is less than truthful than he gets to keep his job and his retirement for which I mad as hell about paying for because he did'nt follow the rules. The Washington people need to clean up it's act. We as taxpayers should'nt expect that they fix it. We should require it.

Where is the Senate Ethics Committee in all of this?

Let him stay! The only difference between him and the rest of those thieves is that he got caught.