More Notes on a Scandal

A few random thoughts for the moment, much more to come:

* The alacrity and unity displayed by prominent Democrats yesterday is undeniably a tribute to strong party leadership. Gov. Strickland and ODP Chari Chris Redfern, et al., have acted decisively and swiftly and with an astute plan, displaying party unity, resolve, and even creativity in the various steps that have been (and will be taken) to isolate and pressure Dann.

* Another part of the explanation for the speed and unanimity with which this is all happening is that there is more misconduct on Dann's part than has so far been publicly revealed. Party leaders are aware of it and have taken it into account.

*The Dann mess overall is helpful to the GOP politically, but the Democrat's shock and awe approach is taking away some of the benefits. The ORP was salivating over challenging every Democratic candidate over whether they support Dann or not, and it looks like that particular stratagem has been negated. By taking the initiative on impeachment, the Democrats have effectively joined the ORP on the moral high ground, and may have foiled ORP hopes to keep Dann in office as long as possible.

* A resolution of impeachment passes the Ohio House of Representative on a simple majority vote. I expect that to happen easily. It may even be unanimous, and could come today or at least very shortly. It then goes to the Ohio Senate for trial, where a 2/3 majority is required for conviction. There will be further investigation (with subpoena power) in the run-up to the trial.