This isn't Chicago Mr. Emanuel

Chicago politics has long been know for it's bullying and threatening tactics. We on the right all knew that Chief of Staff Rahm Emanuel would bring Chicago style intimidation to the White House, but who knew it would be so BLATANT.

House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform Ranking Member Darrell Issa (R-CA) sent a letter to Emanuel saying this wasn't going to work in Washington. He provided these examples and they are mind boggling.

Last month, Politico reported that Emanuel had “launched a coordinated effort to jam” Senator Kyl and other Administration critics…" by intimidating members of Congress and Governors who raise legitimate concerns regarding the effectiveness of the stimulus. After Sen. Kyl's Sunday talk show appearances, the following letters were sent out the next day. Obviously Emanuel instructed Cabinet Secretaries to threaten and intimidate Governor Brewer of Arizona. Does that sound a bit overdramatic? You decide:

Letter from Ray LaHood, Secretary of Transportation:

"On Sunday, Arizona Senator Jon Kyl publicly questioned whether the stimulus is working and stated that he wants to cancel projects that aren’t presently underway. I believe the stimulus has been very effective in creating job opportunities throughout the country. However, if you prefer to forfeit the money we are making available to your state, as Senator Kyl suggests, please let me know [emphasis added]."

Letter from Ken Salazar, Secretary of the Interior:

"Some key Republican leaders in Congress have publicly questioned whether the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act is working and suggested cancelling all projects that are not currently in progress. I believe they are wrong. The stimulus funds provided through the Recovery Act are a very effective way to create job opportunities throughout the Country. However, if you prefer to forfeit the money we are making available to Arizona, please let me know [emphasis added]."

Update: Now, on the White House website, they are asking Americans to "tattle" on each other. That's right. They asking people to send in names of those who are spreading rumors about healthcare, even in "casual conversations." I know. It seems surreal. But it's true.