Just Scary

From the Columbus Dispatch:

"A state agency has revealed that its checks of computer systems for potential information on 'Joe the Plumber' were more extensive than it first acknowledged.

"Helen Jones-Kelley, director of the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services, disclosed today that computer inquiries on Samuel Joseph Wurzelbacher were not restricted to a child-support system.

"The agency also checked Wurzelbacher in its computer systems to determine whether he was receiving welfare assistance or owed unemployment compensation taxes, she wrote."

Jones-Kelley, who approved the searches, is a maxed-out Obama donor.

She also said, "Given our understanding that Mr. Wurzelbacher had publicly indicated that he had the means to purchase a substantial business enterprise, ODJFS, consistent with past departmental practice, checked confidential databases.

"Not surprisingly, when a person behind in child support payments or receiving public assistance is receiving significant media attention which suggests that the person appears to have available financial resources, the Department risks justifiable criticism if it fails to take note and respond."

Just...wow. She had no probable cause to think he was behind on child support...she just decided that since he asked a candidate a question -- which made her preferred candidate look bad -- that she would bring the power of the state to bear and make life uncomfortable for Joe.

Not to mention that of course some of his personal info was leaked to the media.

Those of us old enough to remember the Soviet Union and other regimes will find this kind of thing uncomfortably familiar...you don't challenge the State or you and your family will pay. Senator Obama may not have personally ordered these searches, but his party members' actions are all part and parcel of his affinity for state control and silencing those who raise questions.

Previously: Government Computers Used to Research Joe the Plumber.