Gessler

I learned about the call Gessler made to one of the detectives on the case.

Lost Light Connelly, Michael, 1956- 2003

"Gessler," replied Tell, "imitates the presumption, albeit it is not in his power to rival the grandeur, of Nebuchadnezzar; for he hath set up an idol in the market-place of Altdorf, to which he requireth blind homage to be paid by fools and cowards.

Heroes Every Child Should Know Hamilton Wright Mabie 1880

As I've disclosed previously, Gessler was my go-to guy for all things elections, representing various campaigns I led from 2004 to 2008.

Jessica Corry: Republican Shakeup Begs the Question: Who Will Become GOP's Election Lawyer? Jessica Corry 2011

Gessler certainly had the guts to take on all of the above.

Jessica Corry: Republican Shakeup Begs the Question: Who Will Become GOP's Election Lawyer? Jessica Corry 2011

Attorney Tim Tymkovich led the way for Republicans until he accepted a federal judicial appointment in 2003, at which point Gessler was well-suited to take the baton, frequently going toe-to-toe with Grueskin over the years and often prevailing against Grueskin's union-funded clients.

Jessica Corry: Republican Shakeup Begs the Question: Who Will Become GOP's Election Lawyer? Jessica Corry 2011

He's worked closely with Gessler, Westfall (see below), and Anderson (with whom he's close friends), and he also has some litigation experience.

Jessica Corry: Republican Shakeup Begs the Question: Who Will Become GOP's Election Lawyer? Jessica Corry 2011

As an attorney myself, and one who represents clients engaged in a diversity of election-related and politically-centered disputes, I've come to realize that in the absence of Gessler, the center-right may just find that it needs a cadre of lawyers willing to put aside firm rivalries and personal ego to get the job done in 2012 and on.

Jessica Corry: Republican Shakeup Begs the Question: Who Will Become GOP's Election Lawyer? Jessica Corry 2011

As Gessler's long-time associate, Nicolais inherited much of Gessler's practice and has the chance to parlay this into a top-dog position.

Jessica Corry: Republican Shakeup Begs the Question: Who Will Become GOP's Election Lawyer? Jessica Corry 2011

Noting this, he has a solid co-conspirator at Gessler's former firm in Steve Klenda--a rock-solid commercial litigator and stalwart Republican.

Jessica Corry: Republican Shakeup Begs the Question: Who Will Become GOP's Election Lawyer? Jessica Corry 2011

While Gessler possessed the political instincts and solid resume crucial to take down likable incumbent Bernie Buscher, his victory would leave a dramatic void in future election battles.

Jessica Corry: Republican Shakeup Begs the Question: Who Will Become GOP's Election Lawyer? Jessica Corry 2011