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Subpoenas Coming In 'Troopergate'?

The "Troopergate" investigation ratcheted up a notch today. The AP is reporting that the lead investigator in the case has asked the judiciary committees in both the Alaska House and Senate for the power to subpoena 13 people, including Governor Sarah Palin's husband Todd. The request is expected to be granted. The AP adds that Governor Palin's name is not on the list, but she will likely be "interviewed".

The investigation is looking into whether Palin inappropriately used the power of the Governor's office to have her former brother-in-law fired from the State Police. The outcome has greater political implications for Palin now that she is John McCain's running mate. Initially, investigators were slated to go public with their findings in October -- scarily close to the general election. One report has surfaced claiming that the McCain campaign is attempting to stall the process to avoid the potential for political embarrassment.

-- Sean Bowditch

CLARIFICATION: Just to be clear, Mike Wooten, Palin's former brother-in-law, was never fired from the Alaska State Police. The investigation is specifically looking into whether Palin improperly pressured -- and later fired -- Walt Monegan, then the state's Public Safety Commissioner.

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Wow - an October Surprise, except we might see it in September... and no one will be surprised.
McCain better find a Plan B on the VP.

Sent by RG, Tampa, FL | 3:45 PM ET | 09-12-2008

Palin,

America's basic problem is here at home and not abroad. You obviously have problems in Alaska. Let's take care of those problems first, stay focus.

Sent by Jackson | 3:50 PM ET | 09-12-2008

Abuse of power is the quickest way to lose it...hence America 2008.

She is a reflection of our country I guess

"mirror mirror on the wall, who puts on a shine the best of all?" - "why, you of course my lady liberty"

Sent by Sean Kinshella | 4:06 PM ET | 09-12-2008

Does anyone actually believe that this trooper should not have been fired? Drinking in a squad car, threatening people, etc.

Sent by Mike Cloghessy | 4:11 PM ET | 09-12-2008

Palin provided an enthusiastic character reference for Mike Wooten while she was mayor.

http://extras.mnginteractive.com/live/media/site163/2008/0721/20080721_111415_PalinLetterofRecomend.pdf

(it sometimes take a few tries to get the PDF open)

Sent by Rick | 4:13 PM ET | 09-12-2008

Why does McCain/Palin continue to pull ahead of the Obama/Biden in the polls when Palin has proven herself inadequate? What implications (if any) will this investigation have on the election?

Sent by Ras Irie | 4:16 PM ET | 09-12-2008

The allegations against the trooper have not been proven. So to say he should have been fired for allegations that are not proven is rather premature, wouldn't you say? If not, then I think we should fire Palin as Governor straight away.

Sent by David Simmons | 4:24 PM ET | 09-12-2008

"Does anyone actually believe that this trooper should not have been fired? Drinking in a squad car, threatening people, etc.
Sent by Mike Cloghessy"

- MAYBE HE SHOULD HAVE BEEN, BUT NOT WITH HER INTERVENTION...

Sent by Sean Kinshella | 4:29 PM ET | 09-12-2008

Here is the fact:

Trooper Mike Wooten shot a moose; the meat was divided among family including Governor Palin.
Few years later Trooper Wooten got into a messy custody battle with his wife who is Governor Palin's younger sister.
Governor Palin's staff assembled a dossier of misbehavior by trooper Wooten. Among the charges: he shot a moose without a permit. Trooper Wooten's boss did not fire him.

In the end Trooper Wooten's boss, Commissioner Monegan, got fired.

Commissioner Monegan is one of few state officials who takes seriously the problem of violence against women and children in Alaska.

Sent by Kim | 12:43 PM ET | 09-13-2008

This story shows that she is a nasty and vindictive backstabbing pol who demands loyalty and secrecy. Just what we need more of in Washington.

Sent by Mike Fleissner | 7:57 PM ET | 09-14-2008



   
   
   
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