As I began counting blessings in the run-up to Thanksgiving this year, a thought occurred to me: I wonder if it’s uncharitable to give thanks that former Ald. Edward Burke is finally on trial.
Justice has not come swiftly enough to the formerly very powerful dean of the Chicago City Council. Five years have passed since federal authorities raided Burke’s City Hall office and their investigation of Burke became public knowledge. While it’s true that justice delayed is justice denied, there’s still something to be said for justice applied, even after it took too long.
Burke defense lawyer Chris Gair in his opening statement declared it the honor of his career to represent “this good man.” Assistant U.S. Attorney Timothy Chapman wasn’t buying the “good man” part. “Bribe-taker,” he called Burke. Also: “extortionist.”
A jury will decide who’s right, of course. And as a believer in government that’s held accountable for its actions, to me, it almost does not matter what the jury decides.
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