Walter's Perspective: Chicago Still Ain't Ready For Reform
CHICAGO (CBS) -- Have you been hearing the talk about 14 years in prison for Rod Blagojevich, the reason being deterrence? The word is that Blago in prison will deter politicians from corruption, but I don't buy it, because the facts don't support it.
Remember Gov. Otto Kerner? He was sent to prison, which did not deter Gov. Dan Walker, who was sent to prison, which didn't deter Gov. George Ryan, who was sent to prison, which didn't deter Blagojevich.
Congressman Mel Reynolds in prison didn't deter Congressman Dan Rostenkowski.
Judge Reginald Holzer didn't deter Judge Thomas Maloney or Wayne Olson or Judge Richard LeFevour.
The first Chicago alderman sentenced to prison didn't deter the second, who didn't deter the third or 4th or 5th, or 10th, 15th, 20th or 25th, or 26th, 27th, 28th, or 29th. Undeterred alderman have been convicted of bribery, extortion, embezzlement, you name it.
Big time corruption; so where's the deterrent?
It was the legendary Ald. Paddy Bauler, 50 years ago, who said "Chicago ain't ready for reform." Believe me, it still ain't.
