Today we’re starting a new series of posts relating to JobsGate, the alleged offering of federal jobs to Democratic politicians in exchange for political favors heading into the 2010 midterm election.

For about the past month the White House has refused to answer questions regarding accusations by Representative Joe Sestak (D-PA).

(Sestak, usually considered a supporter of the president, is running against Senator Arlen Specter (D-PA) for the Democratic nomination for US Senate in Pennsylvania.)

The Pennsylvania Congressman has alleged multiple times that the White House offered him a high-ranking job in exchange for dropping out of the primary and allowing Specter to carry the day.

The Obama Administration in response has stonewalled reporters, with Press Secretary Robert Gibbs refusing to answer any questions, yet always promising to get back to those interested. This week Gibbs admitted that members of the administration spoke to Sestak but wouldn’t elaborate further.

Why is this story potentially important? The offer of a federal job in exchange for political favors is not only immoral but illegal. In fact, federal law specifically prohibits such an offer under Title 18. Yes, it’s actually criminal.

And let’s review Article II, Section IV of the United States Constitution:

The President, Vice President and all civil Officers of the United States, shall be removed from Office on Impeachment for, and Conviction of, Treason, Bribery, or other High crimes and misdemeanors.

A federal crime involving bribery? Bonus points!

In addition to Sestak’s direct allegations, reports have indicated that the Obama Administration has promised high-ranking jobs to several members of the House of Representatives in exchange for their “yes” vote on government-run health care.

Among the reportedly bribed members, John Tanner (D-TN) and Bart Gordon (D-TN). Neither has commented on the reports.