House panel takes step toward impeaching federal judge, first in since 1989

AP ^ | LAURIE KELLMAN

[disp86]

WASHINGTON - The House Judiciary Committee voted Wednesday to open the first impeachment probe of a sitting judge in almost two decades.

With little discussion, the Democratic-led panel voted unanimously to launch an investigation against U.S. District Judge Thomas Porteous, a Louisiana jurist, who is charged with presiding over a trial in which the lawyers involved had given him money. He's also accused of filing for bankruptcy under a false name.

Porteous was appointed by President Clinton.

[disp86]

Another Clinton appointment.

[Red Badger]

I wonder how Alcee Hastings will vote?............

[Redbob]

Louisiana, AND a Clinton appointee: the “Perfect Ethical Storm!”

[rrrod]

Well Im shocked!

[fieldmarshaldj]

"He's also accused of filing for bankruptcy under a false name."

Heywood Jablowme ?

[TexasGreg]

1 going down ... 4 or 5 US Supreme Court Justices and several hundred more Federal Court (superior and district) to go.

[ccmay]

How does filing bankruptcy under a false name help discharge debts incurred in your true name? Why in the world would anyone do such a thing?

-ccm

[Defiant]

Does this mean the guy will have to become a Congressman now?

[impeachedrapist]

If U.S. District Judge Thomas Porteous is removed or steps down from the bench, Senate Democrats intend to actively promote William Jefferson (D-LA) to take his place.

[Joe Boucher]

Depends if Thomas Porteous pays the sum asked by Alcee Hastings. Hastings has a history ya know?
My congressional turd.

[Red Badger]

Porteus has no money, he filed bankruptcy!...............So I guess Alcee don’t play dat game!..........

[Joe Boucher]

Alcie got impeached as a federal judge for accepting bribes.
Feds had it on tape.
SOOOOOO let’s elect this crook a congress critter to go along with so many other of the crooks in congress.
No wonder congressional approval is at an all time low.
Ya hear me Nancy Pelosi?
Ya hear me Charlie Rangel?
And how about the swimmer?

[brydic1]

I am listening to the Impeachment hearing on this scumbag Clinton appointed Federal Judge, Porteous. It is sickening that we could have federal judges so absolutely corrupt. A drunk, bribe taking lowlife foisted on the people of Louisiana by Clinton.

[brydic1]

This impeachment hearing is presently being telecast by CSPAN. Just take a look at this scumbag. It is unbelievable that people of this kind could be sitting on our federal judiciary. How many others like him have been appointed and confirmed by our equally corrupt political system.