Detroit Judge Nixes Attempts To Overturn Bankruptcy

Detroit's problem with finances (or, shall we say, lack of) is getting more complex by the day.

Three lawsuits have, so far, been filed in attempts to overturn the bankruptcy filing. The plaintiffs say that if the city does declare bankruptcy, it'll affect their federally-mandated pension benefits. Judge Steven Rhodes froze these cases Wednesday, clearing the way for the city's bankruptcy filing to go ahead.

Rhodes, a U.S. district judge, froze the lawsuits so that the original case for bankruptcy can continue in federal court. He pointed out that these matters were brought to attention during bankruptcy cases anyway, and therefore don't require separate suits just yet.

Indignant protesters gathered outside the courthouse in response. One told The Detroit News, "There's a responsibility for this governor to uphold the state constitution; I don't think the governor is doing that."

In the face of a cool $18 billion in debt, Michigan Governor Rick Snyder approved the state's declaration of bankruptcy last Thursday. "Only one feasible path offers a way out," he said of the move.

Or maybe he was talking about up and retiring to Hawaii. We probably would in his shoes.

To end on an Eminem-quote note: