Tuesday, June 9, 2009

Political Prostitute: The Pedro Espada Story

It has just been reported by the New York Times City Room, that the reason Senator Espada betrayed his party and constituents is because the Democratic leadership wouldn't let him steal close to $2M by funneling member item money to two brand new (and Espada-connected) organizations. These two organizations aren't even in the Senator's district (but they are in his pocket).

I'd advocate protesting outside of Mr. Espada's district office but, alas, he still doesn't have one open (a very observant insight from a City Room commenter). Political extortion is too time consuming to allow Mr. Espada the energy to serve the people of his district.

~ErLu

7 comments:

Unknown said...

The fact that he's been able to get to the level and pull off what he has saddens me because there have been many signs of what he's capable of. Where are all the watch dogs, checks and balances that could have sidelined him? He ran as a Democrat because he know that as a Republican he would never have been elected in the Bronx at this time in history. At this time he has been in office for less then 7 months and he's been able to play his hand to the position of Governor in waiting?!? What the hell, there are many more who are more qualified and have payed their dues that would be more deserving of that post. It's obvious that that is how the Republicans got his vote. Just offer him what he wants and he'll roll over for you.

Savannah said...

Disgusting.

Anne Rettenberg LCSW said...

Espada and Montserrate should be expelled from the Democratic Party.

Sue Susman said...

Since it's clear Espada wanted that $2 million, it's more than likely that he got it from Golisano. So why isn't Golisano being indicted for bribery?

Anonymous said...

Good blog. The Dems and and Repubs are the same, so saying Espada betrayed the Dems is absurd. They two party system has betrayed us all. It is the Dems that elevated Espada!!!

Anonymous said...

Re Anon 8.18am comment: The two party system does suck. My concern is he betrayed his constituents by running on one ticket and not representing the district that elected him. Unfortunately in the primaries, Democrats had two choices Efrain Gonzalez (indicted crook) or Pedro Espada (liar and acquitted crook). I really wish the 33rd district had better choices. And I definitely hope Paterson has a food taster in addition to round-the-clock bodyguards.

TS

http://www.villagevoice.com/2008-08-19/columns/bronx-taste-test-efrain-gonzalez-jr-or-pedro-espada-jr

Anonymous said...

Pedro Espada is another Rod Blogojevich to say the least!