Connecticut State Rep. Mike Lawlor has penned an op-ed in the Chicago Tribune, advising his peers in the Illinois legislature on how to think about the prospect of impeaching Governor Rod Blagojevich. Lawlor and the CT legislature impeached criminal governor John Rowland a number of years ago and Lawlor’s experience and thoughtfulness shines through in his piece in the Tribune. Here’s an excerpt from Lawlor’s piece:

Your state constitution, and that of all the other states and the federal government, provides this extraordinary procedure designed to protect the integrity and legitimacy of government in a time of crisis.

It is, in effect, the undoing of a democratic election. By design, it is and should be extremely difficult to undertake. There may come a time when it is both appropriate and necessary. You must decide if this is such an occasion.

This is a political remedy to a political problem. It is a process that frustrates and confounds the best criminal defense attorneys. It is not court. You must not be distracted by legal arguments that assume trial-like procedures and standards.

Your governor will have his day in court. What you are contemplating now is uniquely legislative, not judicial. If you feel that your state’s government is at risk due to the actions of your governor, you should exercise the extraordinary power your constitution gives to you: Remove him from office.