Friday was one of those special holidays that only comes around once a year...Ground Hog Day! It's one of those strictly American holidays that leaves the rest of the world scratching their head and wondering, "What the hell?" As unscientific as these prognostications may seem, I sometimes believe that these lowly little groundhogs have more sense than most of our elected leaders. The one here at the Milwaukee Zoo opted to sleep in for a bit due to the cold and finally refused to come out, while the "famous" Puxatawnee? Phil in Pennsylvania barely came out for more than a minute to proclaim that he had indeed seen his shadow and that Spring would shortly arrive. Now, my logic is that if these intelligent little creatures (I should know... I have been trying to kill the one in my backyard for two years... unsuccessfully) are smart enough to know when not to stick one's neck out, why can't those wise sages in Washington figure out how to get out of this mess in Iraq --quickly and somewhat gracefully? I fully realize that it may seem quite odd to compare the wisdom of a groundhog to that of a supposedly higher life form, but as the mess overseas has continued to drag on, maybe the groundhog has a bit more sense.
PS: Its my favorite holiday because it happens to be my birthday --this has caused me to be the recipient of more than a few comments through the years, and NO I did not see my shadow Friday morning!
McCain blasts 'vote of no confidence'
Does McCain really believe that sending 21,500 more troops to Iraq is going to fix anything? Or is he just lining up behind President Bush because he has his eye on the primaries? McCain also stands behind spending $145 billion dollars on the war in 2008. Luckily, not all Republicans feel this way. Sen Chuck Hagel of Nebraska (also considering a Presidential run in 2008) has openly refered to the problem in Iraq as a Civil War. Frankly, I think that the tagline of "support our troops" is just a way to drum up votes and false patriotism. If we really wanted to support them, we should bring them home.
Senate Hearing on Congressional War Cessation
On January 30th, the federal Senate held a public hearing entitled “Exercising Congress’ Constitutional Power to End a War.” When chair of the hearing, Russ Feingold (D-WI), spun the issue of Congress possibly voting to withdraw American troops, his use of the term “will” rather than the word “preference” was a textbook example of partisan rhetoric implying that fellow party members who vote more moderately than how he votes are weak-kneed and malleable. Although it might silly for Feingold to mock moderate Democrats despite knowing that the median vote gets the victory, it may very well be that Feingold is pushing far left to shift the policy preferences of fellow senators, as hinted at in his statement, “Things are moving in that direction,” referring to the evidenced shift from a Senate zeitgeist of extended deployment towards a sentiment of expedited withdrawal. Moderate Senator Arlen Specter (R-PA) echoed the voice of moderation with his statement, “…To the president, he is not the sole decider.”
Minimum wage bill heads to negotiations
The democrats and republicans are getting together to pass a new bill that may increase the federal minimum wage and give 8.3 billion dollars in tax breaks. Does this seem familiar to anyone else. Almost the exact same issue was forced through when the Republicans took control in 1994. This exact scenario is even spelled out in the first chapter of Stewart. You can almost see the indifference circles in this one as well.
US Congress debates rebuke Bush on Iraq
This is an article about Congress sending troops to
"Duke-stir" Not Sunk Enough...Yet.
Corruption topped the list of concerns voters presented in the exit-polling this past November. Besides the whole Mark Foley incident, a B-I-G contributor to that notion was Randall "Duke" Cunningham, who resigned and was imprisoned promptly for shifting contracts to certain companies for a little something extra (to the tune of 2.4 million, a used Rolls, and his infamous yacht, "Duke-stir"). This link is a new article describing potential indictments that could rain down on those Cunningham ratted out in his plea agreement. Again, he has to be at least a source to point out as part of the reason Republicans lost power.
On an aside, where can I sign up for a cheesy nickname? Randall "Duke" Cunningham, Kyle "Dusty" Foggo, Irving Lewis "Scooter" Libby. Ah well, guess I'm on the wrong side of the isle for that.
On an aside, where can I sign up for a cheesy nickname? Randall "Duke" Cunningham, Kyle "Dusty" Foggo, Irving Lewis "Scooter" Libby. Ah well, guess I'm on the wrong side of the isle for that.
"Duke-stir" Not Sunk Enough...Yet.
Corruption topped the list of concerns voters presented in the exit-polling this past November. Besides the whole Mark Foley incident, a B-I-G contributor to that notion was Randall "Duke" Cunningham, who resigned and was imprisoned promptly for shifting contracts to certain companies for a little something extra (to the tune of 2.4 million, a used Rolls, and his infamous yacht, "Duke-stir"). This link is a new article describing potential indictments that could rain down on those Cunningham ratted out in his plea agreement. Again, he has to be at least a source to point out as part of the reason Republicans lost power.
On an aside, where can I sign up for a cheesy nickname? Randall "Duke" Cunningham, Kyle "Dusty" Foggo, Irving Lewis "Scooter" Libby. Ah well, guess I'm on the wrong side of the isle for that.
On an aside, where can I sign up for a cheesy nickname? Randall "Duke" Cunningham, Kyle "Dusty" Foggo, Irving Lewis "Scooter" Libby. Ah well, guess I'm on the wrong side of the isle for that.
Doyle calls on congress to pass stem cell legislation
Gov. Jim Doyle is calling on Congress to pass legislation expanding government-financed embryonic stem cell research, despite President Bush's promise to veto it.
"I think the president's position is becoming more and more untenable," Doyle said Wednesday after meeting with Senate Democrats on the issue. "The political debate on this is over."
In response to Doyle's comments, the White House referred to a "statement of administration policy" on the stem cell legislation, which said the bill "would compel all American taxpayers to pay for research that relies on the intentional destruction of human embryos for the derivation of stem cells, overturning the president's policy that funds research without promoting such ongoing destruction."
In my personal opinion I do not believe that we should use federal money to fund such a morally controversial issue. I have no problem seeing the private sector develop this, and I believe Wisconsin would be a great place to start this. At this point in time, there are over 100 different cases that have benefited from adult stem cell research and embryonic stem cell research has yet to provide even one case, therefore it is hard to determine the affects it will have.
"I think the president's position is becoming more and more untenable," Doyle said Wednesday after meeting with Senate Democrats on the issue. "The political debate on this is over."
In response to Doyle's comments, the White House referred to a "statement of administration policy" on the stem cell legislation, which said the bill "would compel all American taxpayers to pay for research that relies on the intentional destruction of human embryos for the derivation of stem cells, overturning the president's policy that funds research without promoting such ongoing destruction."
In my personal opinion I do not believe that we should use federal money to fund such a morally controversial issue. I have no problem seeing the private sector develop this, and I believe Wisconsin would be a great place to start this. At this point in time, there are over 100 different cases that have benefited from adult stem cell research and embryonic stem cell research has yet to provide even one case, therefore it is hard to determine the affects it will have.
Speaker Pursues military flights
February 1, 2007
The office of House Speaker Nancy Pelosi is pressing the Bush administration for routine access to military aircraft for domestic flights, such as trips back to her San Francisco district, according to sources familiar with the discussions. The sources, who include those in Congress and in the administration, said the Democrat is seeking regular military flights not only for herself and her staff, but also for relatives and for other members of the California delegation. . Mrs. Pelosi's request is not new for a speaker, who is second-in-line in presidential succession. A defense source said the speaker's regular access to a military plane began after the September 11, 2001, attacks. Rep. J. Dennis Hastert, Illinois Republican, who was speaker at the time, started using U.S. Air Force planes for domestic travel to and from his district for security reasons. A former Hastert aide said the congressman did not use military planes for political trips or regularly transport his family.
These requests were sighted for security purposes and good communications to conduct legislative business.
The office of House Speaker Nancy Pelosi is pressing the Bush administration for routine access to military aircraft for domestic flights, such as trips back to her San Francisco district, according to sources familiar with the discussions. The sources, who include those in Congress and in the administration, said the Democrat is seeking regular military flights not only for herself and her staff, but also for relatives and for other members of the California delegation. . Mrs. Pelosi's request is not new for a speaker, who is second-in-line in presidential succession. A defense source said the speaker's regular access to a military plane began after the September 11, 2001, attacks. Rep. J. Dennis Hastert, Illinois Republican, who was speaker at the time, started using U.S. Air Force planes for domestic travel to and from his district for security reasons. A former Hastert aide said the congressman did not use military planes for political trips or regularly transport his family.
These requests were sighted for security purposes and good communications to conduct legislative business.
Biden Unwraps ‘08 Bid With an Oops!
It seems funny that this article comes out directly after we read about the growing vulnerabilities of American politicians. Joseph Biden Jr. said one thing that came out wrong and now he has to spend a day, that is a triumph for him (announcing he will run for the democratic ticket), explaining a comment he made that was actually meant to be in acomplimentary manner. Alo, in the article it says that democrats joked that he could be "remembered for the shortest- lived presidential campaign." What a way to be remembered. I would take it though, at least he got there. Mr. Obama jumped at the attention, and now Biden is in trouble amongst the black leaders. All in all this is a very humorous article. Mr. Biden spent most of the day explaining one sentence and not playing the role of the representative because he was worried about higher aspirations.
Senate Allies of Bush Work to Halt Iraq Vote
Will the Senate be able to vote down the President's proposal to send more troops? A vote will be coming up soon and everyone will be watching. Keep in mind it is a non-binding vote but could send a strong message. And by everyone watching, I mean a relatively low percentage of the American public, the ones engaged.
South Dakota legislator censured for misconduct
What do you get when you mix a handsome 36 year old state senator, an 18 year old legislative page, and a motel bed?
Appaerently a censure. Which in this case actually seems fair. Too bad the page was a male. Seriously, if it were a female the senator would probably get the same punishment (censuring does nothing in S.D.), except it is pretty likely he'll pay for this with his job down the line. If it were a woman on the other hand, he'd probably get a jump in the poles. PS. I'm sure your all wondering what his party ID is (JSOnline doesn't say); even though his website has nothing but red, he's a democrat.
Appaerently a censure. Which in this case actually seems fair. Too bad the page was a male. Seriously, if it were a female the senator would probably get the same punishment (censuring does nothing in S.D.), except it is pretty likely he'll pay for this with his job down the line. If it were a woman on the other hand, he'd probably get a jump in the poles. PS. I'm sure your all wondering what his party ID is (JSOnline doesn't say); even though his website has nothing but red, he's a democrat.
Tie CEO pay to performance, Bush says in State of the Economy speech
How greedy are the richest CEO's in America?
A proposed house bill would limit executives' tax-deferred pay packages at $1 million a year. What did the business community think of that?
"Still, even Bush's words on pay were met with complete silence from the business crowd he addressed." (article linked in title, USATODAY 1/31/07)
Here's another quote for you...
"President Bush can deliver all the economic pep talks he wants, but the fact remains that his failed leadership has led to the worst job recovery on record, stagnating household incomes, a rise in poverty and record deficits," said Stacie Paxton, spokeswoman for the Democratic National Committee.
The President says it's not the governments role to limit CEO's wages, I agree. Yet he fails to take responsibility for an ever growing NAFTA strength that promotes offshore banking, job-exporting, and a pay scheme that is remeniscent of the three-musketeers (in referece to dollars) "one for all (the workers), and all for one (CEO)."
Bush's solution comes down to increased transparency for stockholders. If I can find it I'll post todays JSonline article about the new democrats ignoring big businesses greedy demands. Maybe they'll win Kansas over after all.
A proposed house bill would limit executives' tax-deferred pay packages at $1 million a year. What did the business community think of that?
"Still, even Bush's words on pay were met with complete silence from the business crowd he addressed." (article linked in title, USATODAY 1/31/07)
Here's another quote for you...
"President Bush can deliver all the economic pep talks he wants, but the fact remains that his failed leadership has led to the worst job recovery on record, stagnating household incomes, a rise in poverty and record deficits," said Stacie Paxton, spokeswoman for the Democratic National Committee.
The President says it's not the governments role to limit CEO's wages, I agree. Yet he fails to take responsibility for an ever growing NAFTA strength that promotes offshore banking, job-exporting, and a pay scheme that is remeniscent of the three-musketeers (in referece to dollars) "one for all (the workers), and all for one (CEO)."
Bush's solution comes down to increased transparency for stockholders. If I can find it I'll post todays JSonline article about the new democrats ignoring big businesses greedy demands. Maybe they'll win Kansas over after all.
The House passed a $463.5 billion spending bill Wednesday that covers about one-sixth of the federal budget.
Before the 286-140 vote, Republicans made modest objections to the Democratic spending decisions, but made an even bigger protest to the way the new majority muscled their way through the House. This legislation would increase spending on education, veterans, and health care research, while cutting funding to NASA, foreign aid and aid for communities affected by the latest round of military base closings. The bill will move on to the Senate, and the President has signaled that he would sign the bill.
The powerful veterans' lobby won a $3.6 billion increase from the House for medical care, while low-income college students would receive a $260 boost, to $4,310, in the maximum Pell Grant.
Rep. Thelma Drake, R-Va., complained about a $3 billion cut from Bush's budget to put in place the base closings. Obey said the money would be restored in an upcoming war funding bill.
The powerful veterans' lobby won a $3.6 billion increase from the House for medical care, while low-income college students would receive a $260 boost, to $4,310, in the maximum Pell Grant.
Rep. Thelma Drake, R-Va., complained about a $3 billion cut from Bush's budget to put in place the base closings. Obey said the money would be restored in an upcoming war funding bill.
paul ryan
We really don't need the text of whole articles posted. It would be nice if we had a description, explanation or some context instead. Also we really don't need press releases posted. -- M Tofias.
Reid Land Deal Raises Questions
There is a debate over whether Senate majority leader Harry Reid's purchase of undeveloped land in northern Arizona from his friend Clair Haycock at less than one tenth of its assessed value was ethical. Because Reid introduced legislation six months after the deal to help lubricant dealers and Haycock so happens to be a lubricant dealer, it may not be entirely unreasonable for some to claim that the senator violated congressional ethics.
Doyle proposed $225 million plan to help UW Colleges.
In Doyle's latest interview with the Associated Press he proposed a $225 million budget over the next two years to UW Colleges. This proposed plan is to help UW Colleges turn out more graduates in nursing, engineering and teaching. Governor Doyle will go into more detail during his state of the state address. This aid is also to help the rising costs of tuition.
Pelosi heads to Afghanistan as bill is discussed to limit aid to Islambad
This is an article I found on CNN about Nancy Pelosi's visit to the Middle East. As violence is increasing and decisions must be made regarding military spending there. The House is quickly going over President Bush's new plan to increase military funding to areas. The Bill, which was endorsed by the House, already calls for ending spending in Pakistan.
Feingold to Chair the Hearing on Congress's Power to End the War
Wisconsin's Feingold is once again taking the foremost role in foreign policy matters in the Congress. Being against the War in Iraq from Day -1, Feingold's voting record is stellar in terms of consistency. Congress has the power of the purse and can potentially create a resistance the Bush administration's attempt to escalate the funds and troops in Iraq.
More on Feingold in upcoming posts, I'm sure.
More on Feingold in upcoming posts, I'm sure.
House voting rights widen
This was an article I found that was of interest to me about expanding the voting rights District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, Guam, the Virgin Islands and American Samoa. The focus of the article is that Delgates representing the above areas can cast ballots on proposed ammedments. Something that I found interesting though was that if the delegates' votes decide the outcome of an amendment, the vote again without the delegates' from the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, Guam, the Virgin Islands and American Samo.
Big States’ Push for Earlier Vote Scrambles Race
From today's NY Times. Discussion of legislation in the state governments of California, New Jersey, Illinois, and Florida, to have their presidential primaries as early as February. One of the points made in the article is that if candidates have to campaign in such major markets so soon the less known canidates will not have much time to get their names known to the voters. This may give a large advantage to those candidates beginning the campaign with a large amount of name recognition.
Senate Committee Approves Lt. Gen. David Petraeus for Command of U.S. Forces in Iraq
Lt. Gen. Petraeus states that he would not have accepted the nomination if he did not think the new surge plan would not work. He also claims that results would be seen by at the latest mid-end of summer. He has served two tours in Iraq, he has the experience to lead the troops in Iraq hopefully to a better situation.
Bush seeks over $10 billion in aid for Afghanistan
President Bush is asking congress for more than 10 billion dollars to pour in war torn Afghanistan. How much more money are we going to put into a war torn country that hasn't shown signs of changing in hundreds of years? Afghanistan has always been a battleground, with its rugged terrain, and different ethnic groups it is nearly impossible to control. I understand the move in regards to controlling the Taliban and terrorists, but How much money is needed to control a territory another world away? Is it worth it? I think the money could be better used domesticlly i.e. healthcare, immigration reform. We cannot change a culture into thinking capitalist, and I would'nt expect a counrty to change ideals that they have held dear long before the United States came to power.
Cheney Calls Reporter's Question About Gay Daughter's Pregnancy 'Out of Line'
Cheney seems to be a great person, Mrs. Cheney that is. Dick stares Blitzer down. Lynn (Mrs. Cheney) says"Dick and I [are] both very much looking forward to this new baby," "[our] daughter will be a great mom." (FoxNews,Thursday, January 25, 2007). The LGBT community couldn't ask for a better slap-in-the-face to Republicans.
A winter of GOP discontent
As with anything commentators say, you need to take it with a grain of salt. Chuck Todd argues that the 2008 election depends on Bush and Iraq. We know what Bush won't do to help the situation, namely troop withdrawl, but we don't know what he will do other than increase American troop presence. Perhaps unfairly, the Democrats in congress may face some criticism if the situation in Baghdad doesn't improve. I guess it's the price you have to pay when re-taking the majority in both houses.
Congresswoman Gwen Moore and H.R. 5
Congresswoman Gwen Moore is lending her support towards H.R. 5, The college student relief act. This bill, which President Bush has vowed to veto in favor of pell grant expansion, would make it easier for the middle class student and their family to afford college tuition and expenses. I am quite proud of my respresentative for pushing for this bill and an expansion of pell grant funding. This country needs more funding in all area of education primary, secondary, and higher education not less.
Doyle asks for smoking ban
Doyle is proposing a dollar increase on all cigerette packs and a ban in all public buildings on cigarrettes. In regards to the cigarette tax I find it clever to push what amounts to a tax hike on what is prodominetly the working class. The rational is that this will get them to stop smoking. Thamks Papa' Doyle, people aren't responsible to make informed choices for themselves. Next is the smoking ban, what ever happened to letting the free market serve the wants of consumers (find a fancy restaurant, heck find ANY restaurant that still allows smoking. This is a classical case of oppresion of the majority, why should we all pay more taxes when we can push it on a few? why should I have to choose what restaurant/ bar to attend when I can impose my will on others? How soon will it be until college citizens are ticketed for tobacco posession?
Foreign Relations Committee Opposes More Troops
Earlier today, the Senate Foreign Relations Committee voted 12-9 to approve Joe Biden’s (D-DE) opposition resolution to President Bush’s proposed 21,500-soldier addition to those already deployed in Iraq. This means that the opposition resolution will be heard on the Senate floor within the next week or so. A possible competing resolution would be John Wagner’s (R-VA) American forces clarification proposal, which calls for more concrete benchmarks in managing the Iraqi insurgency as well as making clear that American troops are to remain uninvolved in incidents not directly concerning the Iraqi government (anything that is sectarian violence and not sedition or treason).
Senate Republicans block minimum wage hike
Staying true to their word the Democrats put forth a bill to attempt to raise the federal minimum wage. As expected house republicans shot it down with a request to provide tax relief to small buisnesses before a wage increase is passed. All it looks like to me is just some jockeying to get little speaking points to use against opponents in the 2008 election. It doesn't appear to be a serious effort on either side. But now both sides will be able to say that their opponents voted against putting a little extra money into the voters pockets. Republicans keeping minimum wage workers from making a better wage, and Democrats trying to take money away from small buisness owners.
Kerry will not seek White House in 2008
As the 2008 presidential election nears, many of the hopeful candidates are beginning to toss their names in the hat. However, one of the names that we remember very well from 2004’s election is not going to be joining the party. Massachusetts Democratic Sen. John Kerry, 2004’s presidential runner-up, has decided that he will not be attempting a second run at the presidency. Many factors have lead up to Sen. Kerry’s decision, yet he feel’s that a second run isn’t in the cards for him at the moment. I hope he changes his mind with Democratic front runners at the moment being, Clinton and Obama. http://http://hosted.ap.org/dynamic/stories/K/KERRY_2008?SITE=WIMIL&SECTION=HOME&TEMPLATE=DEFAULT
Welcome to Spring
This is a blog for POL SCI 426 at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. We are going to use this blog to carry class discussions out of the classroom.
The primary function of this blog will be to keep up with current events as a group during the semester.
The primary function of this blog will be to keep up with current events as a group during the semester.
Scandal-hit Jefferson wins Louisiana runoff
CONG POL
Jefferson, despite a current federal bribery investigation, wins re-election against a fellow democrat. Which makes me wonder two things, first how are the democrats going to deal with this, and second what type of primary system does Louisiana use that allows elections between two members of the same party? Just seems odd.
Jefferson, despite a current federal bribery investigation, wins re-election against a fellow democrat. Which makes me wonder two things, first how are the democrats going to deal with this, and second what type of primary system does Louisiana use that allows elections between two members of the same party? Just seems odd.
109th Congress winds down
Quite a bit of talk about how there was no annual budget set up so they're trying to iron out details to keep federal services working until February. The article pretty much says that Congress is leaving in disarray. Then there're a few other things too, but I guess you'll have to read it for those.
Kohl working for Wisconsin
I found this story in the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel today. It talks about the recent jump of crime in Milwaukee, Wis. Bad news for Milwaukee, but at least our senator, Herb Kohl, is trying to get something done.
Senate approves Gates as defense secretary
Approved 95-2, but the two no votes were from Republicans who criticized Gates for wanting to talk to Iran, that is, diplomacy. Interesting.
Robert Lorge campaign
I wish Robert Lorge's campaign against Herb Kohl had had a little bit more press. If so, we would have been able to revel in gems such as these:
Cowboys
Astro Boy
Nuke Threat
Animals
Enjoy!
Cowboys
Astro Boy
Nuke Threat
Animals
Enjoy!
Bayh For President
Senator Evan Bayh, a democrat from Indiana has filled papers to form a presidential exploratory committee. The things going in faovor for him if he ran would be his heartland image, and moderate approach. I think this could be very important because it would be something different compared to strong possible candidates which he will be facing. His most likely strong opponents at this momemt would be Senators Hillary Rodham Clinton and Barack Obama, who are some what similar because they represent the liberal democrat states.
Should Dems ignore the Southerns?
That's the debate going on over at Salon (you don't need to register to view the stories, but you do need to wait through a short commercial, which will give you a one-day access pass to the site).
Essentially, the two sides are arguing over whether the Democratic Party should focus energies on keeping the Southern Democrat base within the party or whether party officials should just ignore the South.
In the second piece, I found this quote quite good:
Essentially, the two sides are arguing over whether the Democratic Party should focus energies on keeping the Southern Democrat base within the party or whether party officials should just ignore the South.
In the second piece, I found this quote quite good:
Sure, the overall trend has been toward the GOP, but that's hard to avoid,
since the starting point was a one-party Democratic region.
New Congress unlikely to rush toughest issues
This is an interesting article that reports on the slow road for legislating that the new Congress will face.
The main issues that are being discussed are the following:
Iraq
Wiretap policy
Immigration
The main issues that are being discussed are the following:
Iraq
Wiretap policy
Immigration
Dems warn Iraq government: No rubber-stamp support
This article is basically about the plans that the Democrats have when it comes to their legislating in the NEW CONGRESS. It also touches on the violence going on in Iraq right now and the fact that Iraq should expect changes in the United States' role in that region.
At least they have a plan, it's better than nothing. LOL
At least they have a plan, it's better than nothing. LOL
Looking Beyond 2006
Jacob Weisberg of Slate is the most informed person, it seems. He says about the recent elections:
Amazing that he can come to such a conclusion and the Democrats haven't even formally taken power yet. And he goes on to say:
The four possibilities: A New Progressivism, Clintonism Continued, The Muddled Middle and Bushism Without Bush.
I think either an era of Clintonism Continued or Bushism Without Bush remains the most likely ones of the four mentioned in the article. And I think a Clintonism Continued would be my guess for how the American public shapes the scope of the political landscape in years to come -- particularly in 2008.
The conservative era in American politics, which has coincided with my
entire adult lifetime, came to an end two weeks ago.
Amazing that he can come to such a conclusion and the Democrats haven't even formally taken power yet. And he goes on to say:
So, if I'm correct that the conservative era is kaput, what comes next? No
one knows! But perhaps we can speculate about some of the candidates for
successor. Here are four possibilities, moving from left to right.
The four possibilities: A New Progressivism, Clintonism Continued, The Muddled Middle and Bushism Without Bush.
I think either an era of Clintonism Continued or Bushism Without Bush remains the most likely ones of the four mentioned in the article. And I think a Clintonism Continued would be my guess for how the American public shapes the scope of the political landscape in years to come -- particularly in 2008.
Sort of relating to Congress..
"True freedom is protecting Americans by letting the NSA monitor their email and phone calls by the millions without a warrant, US Attorney General Alberto Gonzales explained to Air Force Academy cadets in a speech last week.
It's a mistake to regard such Gestapo tactics as compromising freedom, he told the young officers in training. "This [antagonistic] view is shortsighted. Its definition of freedom - one utterly divorced from civic responsibility - is superficial and is itself a grave threat to the liberty and security of the American people".
Only days earlier, vice president Dick Cheney had denounced an August court decision in Michigan that found the NSA wiretap program unconstitutional as "an indefensible act of judicial overreaching".
It should surprise no one that the Bush administration is mounting a PR campaign to sell its illegal mass wiretap program, even though it's hardly a hot news item at the moment (the Michigan decision is being appealed). The sales job is directed toward the lame duck Republican Congress, in hopes of having the domestic spying program legalised after the fact, before Democrats take control of the Hill."
So does anyone think that they'll be able to get it pushed through? I personally don't; isn't trying to get it legalized to "supplement" the authority that already exist rather pointless to if it was already legit? I think even if they tried to push this through it'll take something to let the general public know and from them I'm sure the general feeling will be of displeasure. Time will tell.
We should pat ourselves on the back...unless you didn't vote..then don't pat yourself on the back
"Washington - Young voters carried more political weight in Wisconsin than in virtually any other state in the Nov. 7 midterm elections.
That is one of the most striking findings about the state in an examination of exit poll data from across the country.
Voters age 18-29 made up 17% of the Wisconsin electorate - more than anywhere else except Montana (also 17%). Nationally, young voters made up between 12% and 13% of the electorate.
"We lost all these college-town seats," Janesville congressman Paul Ryan said. "The marriage amendment clearly complicated the turnout situation, which did not play to our benefit in many ways."
According to a preliminary national estimate by the Center for Information and Research on Civic Learning and Engagement at the University of Maryland, about 24% of eligible voters between 18 and 29 went to the polls Nov. 7, up from 20% in the last midterm in 2002. National turnout for voters of all ages is estimated at a little more than 40% in 2006."
Texas loses lengthy clout in Congress
This article has it all –distribution of power, junior members and redistricting. Enjoy.
House Democrats Pick Their Leader
House Democrats chose Representative Steny H. Hoyer of Maryland majority leader. The interesting thing was that there was fighting amongst party members. Hoyer was chosen despite the fact that he wasn't the candidate favored by speaker of the house Nansy Pelosi. John Murtha was favored by Pelosi, who got 86 votes compared with 149, which were received by his opponents.
Lieberman: Payback Time?
I was watching Scarborough Country on MSNBC and one of the things that came up was the issue with Joe Lieberman most likely being bitter because of the fact that he probably feels that the Democrats left him behind to support Lamont. Now that Lieberman has won over Lamont, could it be possible in anyone's eyes that he might become a turncoat and consider becoming a republican. It was stated on SC that he had more votes from republicans than independents, so I am wondering what anyone thinks of this because he could tip the balance when it comes to the power in the Senate.
Could quicker Rumsfeld exit have kept GOP in power?
The article is basically about speculations about whether or not Donald Rumsfeld's resignation could have helped the Republicans stay in power if it had been done before the Midterm Elections. I agree pretty much with Bolten when he states:
"I could argue the politics of it either way," White House Chief of Staff Joshua Bolten told CNN. "It might have been disheartening for people to see a sudden change at that moment, two or three weeks before the election. But however you view the politics of it, it doesn't matter. The president wasn't ready to make the decision until the last week. And he was determined not to inject politics into one of the most important national security decisions he has got to make."
I don't think it would have made much of a difference either way. Most people most likely would have shrugged it off and voted the way they wanted. Also, it has been discussed before on a few political cable news shows that a significant amount of people voted absentee, including me, so whatever the circumstance it would have been too late or fruitless to make an impact.
"I could argue the politics of it either way," White House Chief of Staff Joshua Bolten told CNN. "It might have been disheartening for people to see a sudden change at that moment, two or three weeks before the election. But however you view the politics of it, it doesn't matter. The president wasn't ready to make the decision until the last week. And he was determined not to inject politics into one of the most important national security decisions he has got to make."
I don't think it would have made much of a difference either way. Most people most likely would have shrugged it off and voted the way they wanted. Also, it has been discussed before on a few political cable news shows that a significant amount of people voted absentee, including me, so whatever the circumstance it would have been too late or fruitless to make an impact.
Disenchanted Chafee may bail on GOP
Here is a short article on how the most liberal republican of congress might jump ship after his election loss. Interesting that he waited so long to decide that he might leave the party.
Redistricting: Home to Roost
"The trade-off in redistricting is between safety and maximizing the numbers," says Alan I. Abramowitz, a political scientist at Emory University in Atlanta. "You can't do both."
Political Parties in a Critical Era
Thanks to Anthony Cetrano for pointing out that this article was not available on jstor. You can find it at the above link on my website or at the site for the American Politics Review.
Iraq: Ailing Democratic Party since 2006
Not surprisingly, the New York Times picks up on how the Democrats used the war in Iraq to leverage their way into Congress.
The story talks about how Iraq had fallen off of the media's radar and how a bloody and violent month of October overseas helped to raise the profile of the war again to a point where Democrats could use it as a means to Congressional ends.
But the White House helped too, they say:
The story talks about how Iraq had fallen off of the media's radar and how a bloody and violent month of October overseas helped to raise the profile of the war again to a point where Democrats could use it as a means to Congressional ends.
But the White House helped too, they say:
Republicans, normally sure-footed this decade, reacted with a tentativeness that they called evidence of a divergence between a White House that viewed a victory in Iraq as central to Mr. Bush’s image and Republican candidates who saw the war as poisoning an already difficult re-election environment.
Senior Republican strategists said they told candidates to avoid talking about the war, and even to distance themselves from it, and urged the White House to change its approach, at least through November. But that strategy was undercut by Mr. Bush and Mr. Cheney, who kept making the case for victory in forum after forum, ensuring that the issue remained in public view.
What a novel approach for Democrats.
After Years On the Outs, New York Comes Back In
“Now when I say to one of my colleagues, New York needs something, or I need something, they’ll be more amenable.”
- Chuck Schumer
- Chuck Schumer
Democrat win in Montana
Jon tester wins for democrats in Montana, leaving Virgina to be decided, "Mr. Tester’s victory means that the Senate will at the least be tied 50-50 between Democrats and Republicans, but effectively the Republicans would remain in control in that case because Vice President Dick Cheney has a tie-breaking vote".
Bush appoints new Secretary of Defense
Donald Rumsfeld has put in his resignation as Secretary of Defense and President Bush has appointed former head of the CIA, Robert Gates. Little information is available at this time but President Bush has announced that he believe Gates will assist him in "Staying the Course" or "Changing the course" or something is going on with the course at least.
Democratic Majority in Senate
Democrats have defeated the Republican incumbents in Rhode Island, Pennsylvanis, and Ohio. Right now they are winning in other three, Virginia, James Webb(Democrat) leading with very slime majority 49.6 to 49.3%, 99/8% votes counted. Missouri, Democratic challenger McCaskill leading by 49.5 to 47.3 over her opponents with 88.4% votes counted. In Montana Democrat challenger Jon Tester leading by 50.7% to 46.8% over the opponent with 64.1% counted.
Dems take House as GOP clings to Senate, CNN projects
Democrats have won the house as expected. Senate is really up for grabs and 3 is needed for Democrats control and 1 for Republicans.
Liberman Wins
Senator Liberman wins running as an independent by beating both the democrat and republican candidates. He got 50% of the votes, with heavy turnout of 66% in Connecticut.
Readings for Wednesday
Pay attention to the syllabus, not to what I said in class. The readings that we will cover tomorrow are Jacobson Chapter 6 and Aldrich's “Political Parties in a Critical Era.” Thanks and vote well.
Information on what wisconsin is voting on
To All-
The link is a webpage full on information on issues and candidates that Wisconsin will be voting on today. Please read carefully on all issues and don't forget to vote.
The link is a webpage full on information on issues and candidates that Wisconsin will be voting on today. Please read carefully on all issues and don't forget to vote.
The NRCC is doing a robocalling smear campaign..
"In 53 Congressional campaigns across the country, including the Pennsylvania 6th, the Connecticut 4th, the North Carolina 11th, the New Hampshire 2nd, and the Illinois 6th and 8th (and possibly all races), the National Republican Congressional Committee is conducting a $2.1 million campaign to make it appear as if Democrats are spamming callers with telemarketing calls. The NRCC hired Conquest Communications Group to conduct a massive nationwide robocalling campaign with calls specifically scripted to appear as if they're coming from the Democratic candidate — in violation of FCC regulations on such 'robocalls,' which requires the identity of the caller to be stated at the beginning of the message [47 CFR 64.1200(b)(1)]. The call begins with 'Hello. I'm calling with information about,' and then says the name of the Democratic candidate. There is then a pause; if the recipient hangs up here, they will receive repeated calls back with the same message, potentially up to 18 times or more (according to one callee). If the callee doesn't hang up, they hear a smear message from the machine about the Democratic candidate. The NRCC thinks the legality of the calls is, conveniently, a 'complicated legal question that's not going to get adjudicated this weekend.'"
Bush Says U.S. Pullout Would Let Iraq Radicals Use Oil as a Weapon
This is an interesting article because Bush now is arguing that staying in Iraq is about oil. After 4 years of saying that the Iraq war has nothing to do with oil, it seems a strange change of reasoning. Bush also argues that the loss of Iraqi oil would result in oil prices as high as $400 a barrel, never mind that Iraqi production has never been that significant of total world production. Sounds like Bush is trying to use the fear of voters to pay more at the pump to win votes for Republicans. I just don't see how this is good for Republicans.
Republican Scandals
The world of mudslinging and muckraking takes center stage during election season, as political ads become ubiquitous. A sweet respite from ads exchanging blows with each respective candidate’s opponent, this ad, http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2006/11/02/ad-challenges-voters-to-r_n_33119.html, challenges people on the street to read a list of republican scandals in one breath, with a reward of a hundred dollars if anyone can do it.
The fact that they cannot surprises several of the participants, and brings light to issues people didn’t even know existed. The man on the street approach, makes the ad more accessible in comparison to the political commercials that simply degrade a candidate’s position, and the clever premise keeps the audience watching.
This is a perfect example of how politicians can attract voters who have learned to tune out the traditional vote for this guy's ad.
The fact that they cannot surprises several of the participants, and brings light to issues people didn’t even know existed. The man on the street approach, makes the ad more accessible in comparison to the political commercials that simply degrade a candidate’s position, and the clever premise keeps the audience watching.
This is a perfect example of how politicians can attract voters who have learned to tune out the traditional vote for this guy's ad.
Plans to build atomic weapons...brought to you by your friendly GOP members of Congress and President
"Last March, the federal government set up a Web site to make public a vast archive of Iraqi documents captured during the war. The Bush administration did so under pressure from Congressional Republicans who had said they hoped to “leverage the Internet” to find new evidence of the prewar dangers posed by Saddam Hussein."
"The documents, roughly a dozen in number, contain charts, diagrams, equations and lengthy narratives about bomb building that nuclear experts who have viewed them say go beyond what is available elsewhere on the Internet and in other public forums. For instance, the papers give detailed information on how to build nuclear firing circuits and triggering explosives, as well as the radioactive cores of atom bombs."
"The director of national intelligence, John D. Negroponte, had resisted setting up the Web site, which some intelligence officials felt implicitly raised questions about the competence and judgment of government analysts. But President Bush approved the site’s creation after Congressional Republicans proposed legislation to force the documents’ release."
"Peter D. Zimmerman, a physicist and former United States government arms scientist now at the war studies department of King’s College, London, called the posted material “very sensitive, much of it undoubtedly secret restricted data.”
The stupidity of some of our government never fails to amaze me.
"Let's stop the world from getting nukes!"
"Ok, how do we do that?"
"By releasing information to help them on their paths to building nuclear weapons of course!"
What the hell? Is there ANY oversight? I guess not since plans to build nukes got released into the wild. I am rather curious now what the looked like though.
"The documents, roughly a dozen in number, contain charts, diagrams, equations and lengthy narratives about bomb building that nuclear experts who have viewed them say go beyond what is available elsewhere on the Internet and in other public forums. For instance, the papers give detailed information on how to build nuclear firing circuits and triggering explosives, as well as the radioactive cores of atom bombs."
"The director of national intelligence, John D. Negroponte, had resisted setting up the Web site, which some intelligence officials felt implicitly raised questions about the competence and judgment of government analysts. But President Bush approved the site’s creation after Congressional Republicans proposed legislation to force the documents’ release."
"Peter D. Zimmerman, a physicist and former United States government arms scientist now at the war studies department of King’s College, London, called the posted material “very sensitive, much of it undoubtedly secret restricted data.”
Ray E. Kidder, a senior nuclear physicist at the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory in California, an arms design center, said “some things in these documents would be helpful” to nations aspiring to develop nuclear weapons and should have remained secret."
The stupidity of some of our government never fails to amaze me.
"Let's stop the world from getting nukes!"
"Ok, how do we do that?"
"By releasing information to help them on their paths to building nuclear weapons of course!"
What the hell? Is there ANY oversight? I guess not since plans to build nukes got released into the wild. I am rather curious now what the looked like though.
Rally with President Bill Clinton in Milwaukee
Hey guys! There is going to be a rally with President Bill Clinton in Milwaukee. Apparently, Governor Jim Doyle, Senator Herb Kohl, Congresswoman Gwen Moore, Lt. Governor Barbara Lawton, and AG (Attorney General) Candidate Kathleen Falk are going to be there as well. It is on Friday, November 3rd at the Milwaukee Theatre on 500 W. Kilbourn Avenue at 2:00 p.m. which is when the doors will be opened. If you need a RSVP ticket, all you have to do is go to the UWM Democrats office in the Union I believe and ask them. I am definitely going because hey, it's BILL CLINTON! I hope to see some of you there!
New NYT/CBS Poll
29% American approve of the way President Bush is managing the war in Iraq.
Nearly 70 percent of Americans said Mr. Bush did not have a plan to end the war, and an overwhelming 80 percent said Mr. Bush’s latest effort to rally public support for the conflict amounted to a change in language but not policy.
Only 20 percent said they thought the United States was winning in Iraq, down from a high of 36 percent in January.
http://thecaucus.blogs.nytimes.com/?p=530
Nearly 70 percent of Americans said Mr. Bush did not have a plan to end the war, and an overwhelming 80 percent said Mr. Bush’s latest effort to rally public support for the conflict amounted to a change in language but not policy.
Only 20 percent said they thought the United States was winning in Iraq, down from a high of 36 percent in January.
http://thecaucus.blogs.nytimes.com/?p=530
Green and Doyle Bring on Support!
Both Green and Doyle bring on outside support to help them win over voters. Green has Tommy Thompson promoting him and Doyle has Barack Obama helping him out. The link is from ABC's Milwaukee station that has video of it all. The race is heating up and today in recent polls, Green and Doyle are neck and neck. Remember to go vote next Tuesday between 7am to 8pm at your local polling station!
Kerry insults GOP
"I'm sick and tired of a bunch of despicable Republicans who will not debate real policy, who won't take responsibility for their own mistakes, standing up and trying to make other people the butt of those mistakes," he said. "It disgusts me that a bunch of these Republican hacks who've never worn the uniform of our country are willing to lie about those who did."
I guess negative campaigning is going on even in person, and why not? It works.
I guess negative campaigning is going on even in person, and why not? It works.
Milwaukee Event
Barack Obama will be in Milwaukee tomorrow for a rally supporting Gov. Jim Doyle and Senator Herb Kohl. I believe it starts at 9 a.m. Follow the link to get more information. Many of the "political elite" will be there.
I have to work, but you guys should go and tell me how awesome it was.
I have to work, but you guys should go and tell me how awesome it was.
Some statistics
9 days remaining
House (35 contested races)
Leans GOP 5
Toss-Up 17
Leans Dem 13
Senate (9 contested races)
Leans GOP 0
Toss-Up4
Leans Dem5
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-srv/politics/interactives/campaign06/countdown.html
House (35 contested races)
Leans GOP 5
Toss-Up 17
Leans Dem 13
Senate (9 contested races)
Leans GOP 0
Toss-Up4
Leans Dem5
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-srv/politics/interactives/campaign06/countdown.html
A dirrrrty campaign season?
The Washington Post a few days ago reported about the race in Wisconsin between Republican Rep. Ron Kind and Paul Nelson, the Democratic challenger.
The race features a commercial in which Nelson has "XXX" in a twisted-logic sort of way to brand Kind.
The story talks about this race and how this campaign season seems to be getting more and more personal. Nelson is quoted in the story:
The race features a commercial in which Nelson has "XXX" in a twisted-logic sort of way to brand Kind.
The story talks about this race and how this campaign season seems to be getting more and more personal. Nelson is quoted in the story:
"Negative campaigning is vicious personal attacks," he said in an interview. "This (commercial) isn't personal at all."
Later in the story:
The National Republican Campaign Committee is spending more than 90 percent of its advertising budget on negative ads, according to GOP operatives, and the rest of the party seems to be following suit.
I haven't been paying too much attention to the commercials, to be honest, except for the Doyle-Green gubernatorial race, which is certainly a pretty negative race.
Does anyone have any feelings on whether this campaign season has been any dirtier or more negative than past ones?Lurid Excerpts
After viewing several ads on Wednesday in lecture, I found the following video to be interesting because it shows how bad political elections have become when it comes to bashing away at ones opponent in the election, even as far as to use books one has written previously. You can find the video under the catergory: Video Features on Fox News Channel.
"No-Brainer" Could It be Last Out-Cry to Rally Republicans
"The conservative radio host, Scott Hennen, asked Mr Cheney if he agreed that "a dunk in water is a no-brainer" if it would unearth information of pending attacks and save lives.
Mr Cheney replied: "Well, it's a no-brainer for me." He went on to say that he was not condoning torture but said you can have a robust interrogation programme without torture". Does this looks likes a stunt to rally the hard-core Republicans, who might not be feeling very upbeat lately, less than 2 week before elections. It's hard to say if these kinds of statements will work for or against the Republicnas.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/americas/6093298.stm
Mr Cheney replied: "Well, it's a no-brainer for me." He went on to say that he was not condoning torture but said you can have a robust interrogation programme without torture". Does this looks likes a stunt to rally the hard-core Republicans, who might not be feeling very upbeat lately, less than 2 week before elections. It's hard to say if these kinds of statements will work for or against the Republicnas.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/americas/6093298.stm
Middle class is abandoning the GOP
Say you're a representative and you firmly plant yourself where you want; now say your opponent moves somewhat to get closer to what the constituents want. It's not that hard to have realized that this was going to happen. Unless you're slow or thinking you're invulnerable.
I'll place any money that in the future thought the GOP will try to align themselves differently to gain back some of the voters since they can't fight against the "war" that's turning away the majority of the middle class.
I'll place any money that in the future thought the GOP will try to align themselves differently to gain back some of the voters since they can't fight against the "war" that's turning away the majority of the middle class.
Herb Kohl: 'Benign' re-election
The Journal Sentinel today has a story about the Kohl Senate race.
I found this paragraph intriguing:
I found this paragraph intriguing:
When you've been in the Senate for 18 years, when you own the Milwaukee Bucks basketball team, when you're wealthy enough to own a Van Gogh if you chose to, and when your face is on television as often as you want it to be, running for re-election can seem like a pretty benign matter. Especially if you add one factor: The other major party has all but withdrawn from the battlefield.And it made me wonder: Would Jacobson and Stewart say that Kohl's re-election campaigns are "benign"? Sure, he's had it easy in terms of political opponents, but something tells me that Kohl is still nervous about the re-elections, even if that nervousness seems misplaced.
Partisanship: The Enemy of the People
There are so many critiques of American politics one doesn’t know where the finger pointing ends and the real problems begin. However, it appears pretty evident that one of the largest flaws in government now is partisanship.
The people elect representatives, and they should do precisely what their title dictates; represent the people. However, the growing wave of partisanship has our “representatives” standing for something else; party lines. This militant adherence to which side of the spectrum they sit on only serves to worsen their ability to govern the people.
The party in power sets the stage with no due recourse, and with only a few notable exceptions, the party members fall in, whether they believe in the course of action they are taking or not. Issues that split party lines never get solved; instead they worsen as debate quiets in the chambers and heats up on the streets.
The two party system is responsible for this debacle, with each side pushing and tugging for power and influence to further their agenda, while PACs and special interest groups tug the strings attached to their wallets.
The only resolution to this problem is the abolition of the two party system, which is an impossibility in modern American politics. However, if each of us held our representatives truly responsible maybe some change would come.
In order for this to happen people must be willing to send letters, make calls, and do whatever it takes to get politicians to enact our will.
The people elect representatives, and they should do precisely what their title dictates; represent the people. However, the growing wave of partisanship has our “representatives” standing for something else; party lines. This militant adherence to which side of the spectrum they sit on only serves to worsen their ability to govern the people.
The party in power sets the stage with no due recourse, and with only a few notable exceptions, the party members fall in, whether they believe in the course of action they are taking or not. Issues that split party lines never get solved; instead they worsen as debate quiets in the chambers and heats up on the streets.
The two party system is responsible for this debacle, with each side pushing and tugging for power and influence to further their agenda, while PACs and special interest groups tug the strings attached to their wallets.
The only resolution to this problem is the abolition of the two party system, which is an impossibility in modern American politics. However, if each of us held our representatives truly responsible maybe some change would come.
In order for this to happen people must be willing to send letters, make calls, and do whatever it takes to get politicians to enact our will.
GOP terrorism ad sparks Democratic furor
http://www.cnn.com/2006/POLITICS/10/20/gop.ad/index.html
This article is basically about how the Democrats feel that the Republicans are using Osama Bin Laden to strike fear into the voters to vote for the GOP in the election that is looming. Fear-mongering is sometimes a good ploy, albeit ridiculous when it comes to the informed voter, but I believe that it won't work this time.
It states from beginning in the article that the "Republicans took a page from President Johnson's Cold War-era presidential campaign with an advertisement set to air this weekend called "The Stakes," which prominently features al Qaeda leaders threatening to kill Americans."
I can only assume that since things are not looking great for the Republicans what the GOP are doing is basically saying that Bin Laden is in support of the Democrats which is ridiculous and is a desperate move. What do you all think?
This article is basically about how the Democrats feel that the Republicans are using Osama Bin Laden to strike fear into the voters to vote for the GOP in the election that is looming. Fear-mongering is sometimes a good ploy, albeit ridiculous when it comes to the informed voter, but I believe that it won't work this time.
It states from beginning in the article that the "Republicans took a page from President Johnson's Cold War-era presidential campaign with an advertisement set to air this weekend called "The Stakes," which prominently features al Qaeda leaders threatening to kill Americans."
I can only assume that since things are not looking great for the Republicans what the GOP are doing is basically saying that Bin Laden is in support of the Democrats which is ridiculous and is a desperate move. What do you all think?
Poll: 74 percent of Americans say Congress out of touch
The headline says it all. While its not uncommon for people to feel congress is out of touch, these numbers are, and as the article reports, the same numbers were seen in 1994 before the republican take over.
Poll: Half of Americans think Congress is corrupt
I agree with the opinion of this article. Corruption flows throughout the branches government. Everything and anything has lost it's true purpose; governing for the good of the people, not individualistic ideals has been forgotten. Within the span of the GW Bush regime people have lost confidence in the government and it would take a stronger/wiser leader to gain back the faith of the people.
Minnesota 6
Patty Wetterling. If the name sounds familiar it's probably because you recall the tragedy of her son Jacob who disappeared never to be seen again. Well Mrs. Wetterling has been working tirelessly since then as a child advocate and is currently running for the Minnesota 6th District-a seat to be vacated by Mark Kennedy (R-MN) who is running for Senate. A recent poll puts Wetterling 8 points ahead of her opponent Michele Bachmann.
What is intersting about this article in particular is that the race has been very close up until this point and they consider the possiblity that this surge in points is a direc result to the Foley scandal.
It seems likely that one of the seats to be gained by the Dems, or in MN the DFL, may well be the MN 6th.
What is intersting about this article in particular is that the race has been very close up until this point and they consider the possiblity that this surge in points is a direc result to the Foley scandal.
It seems likely that one of the seats to be gained by the Dems, or in MN the DFL, may well be the MN 6th.
The Worst Congress Ever
TAGLINE: How our national legislature has become a stable of thieves and perverts -- in five easy steps.
Their 10 worst representatives:
Dennis Hastert (R-IL)
James Sensenbrenner Jr. (R-WI)
Don Young (R-AK)
William Jefferson (D-LA)
Jerry Lewis (R-CA)
Tom Tancredo (R-CO)
Dick Pombo (R-CA)
Curt Weldon (R-PA)
Hal Rogers (R-KY)
Marilyn Musgrave (R-CO)
Their 10 worst representatives:
Dennis Hastert (R-IL)
James Sensenbrenner Jr. (R-WI)
Don Young (R-AK)
William Jefferson (D-LA)
Jerry Lewis (R-CA)
Tom Tancredo (R-CO)
Dick Pombo (R-CA)
Curt Weldon (R-PA)
Hal Rogers (R-KY)
Marilyn Musgrave (R-CO)
Another corrupt politician?
"Oct. 16 (Bloomberg) -- The FBI said it raided the home of Representative Curt Weldon's daughter as part of what one person familiar with the case said is an investigation into whether the Pennsylvania Republican used his influence to steer business to her consulting firm.
The raids by Federal Bureau of Investigation agents took place today at the Philadelphia-area homes of Karen Weldon and her business associate, Charles Sexton, according to FBI spokeswoman Debra Weierman.
Weierman said those raids were among six carried out by the FBI ``in relation to a pending investigation.'' She said four were in the Philadelphia area and two were in the Jacksonville, Florida, area."
I wonder, with all these stories about Republicans coming out now, maybe it's possible that others were holding onto them in an attempt to use them near elections to get them out of office? If it really happened as early as it says in the article and it didn't make the news then, or even if it did, but is being restated so soon to the election period then I think it's possible it was saved as ammo.
In Final Weeks, G.O.P. Focuses on Best Bets
WASHINGTON, Oct. 15 — Senior Republican leaders have concluded that Senator Mike DeWine of Ohio, a pivotal state in this year’s fierce midterm election battles, is likely to be heading for defeat and are moving to reduce financial support for his race and divert party money to other embattled Republican senators, party officials said.
U.S., Japan seek N. Korea sanctions vote
This is highly contridictory for the U.S. Why are they even voting? U.S. is going to ignore the U.N. decision if it doesn't swing in their favor. To think that U.N. still has power is ridiculous, because U.S. made this entity futile when it went to war with Iraq with it's unilateral decision. Why not just go to war? If the Republican Party has a the Majority in both houses why don't they just declare war because its within their power to do so. Isn't it much easier to elimate enemies that you can see instead of searching for them? In my opinion, North Korea is not a top priority in the U.S. national interest or U.S. (Bush administration) is afraid to fight a real war.
Mr. Mark Foley and the House of Representatives
This is an interesting editorial from The Washington Post about some reactions in the House for the scandal leaded by Mr. Foley.
The Speaker's Feint
Mr. Hastert would assign the wrong mission to his 'high-caliber' adviser.
Friday, October 6, 2006; Page A22
HOUSE SPEAKER J. Dennis Hastert (R-Ill.) yesterday came up with yet another ploy to shield himself and his colleagues from scrutiny while pretending to do the opposite.
The issue is how House leaders dealt with warnings that Rep. Mark Foley (R-Fla.) had sent inappropriate e-mail to a teenage page. The speaker announced with considerable satisfaction that he hopes to appoint an independent "person of high caliber" -- but not to do what is obviously needed, which is investigate whether the House botched the response, thereby endangering more pages. Instead, Mr. Hastert said, he wants someone "to advise us on the page program." He floated the idea of naming former FBI director Louis J. Freeh but pulled back when Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) wouldn't go along.
Let's save the speaker, and whoever his eminent person turns out to be, some time by offering advice right now: No congressman should harass pages. No one should send them what White House press secretary Tony Snow dismissed as "naughty e-mails." And if there's even a hint that one of your colleagues is doing so, or wants to, don't brush it off. "The buck stops here," the speaker said yesterday, declaring that "we're taking responsibility." But announcing that doesn't make it so.
Yesterday's gambit followed an earlier tack, which was to turn the matter over to the FBI. The FBI has a role to play in determining whether criminal violations occurred, but the appropriate constraints on the bureau -- in the scope of its investigation and its ability to share information with the House and the public -- make it an ill-suited vehicle "for us to try to find out what happened," as the speaker put it. Meanwhile, responding to the uproar with finger-pointing suggestions that the other side leaked the matter, as Mr. Hastert did yesterday, isn't going to fly. Would he be happier if the information hadn't come out?
The House ethics committee's announcement yesterday of an investigation is a development to be taken more seriously. As we've said previously, there are legitimate questions about the panel's ability to handle something with this much political sensitivity, given Republican efforts to undermine its power and independence and given its dysfunction during the Abramoff scandal. That's why an independent investigator -- a "person of high caliber," in the speaker's phrase -- would have been the best way to ensure a thorough investigation and unsparing conclusions.
That apparently wasn't seriously considered, though, so now the ethics committee's integrity is on the line. It should resist calls for haste (including from Ms. Pelosi, who risks appearing more interested in electoral timelines than a thorough inquiry), but it also must work briskly and without regard for political fallout.
The Speaker's Feint
Mr. Hastert would assign the wrong mission to his 'high-caliber' adviser.
Friday, October 6, 2006; Page A22
HOUSE SPEAKER J. Dennis Hastert (R-Ill.) yesterday came up with yet another ploy to shield himself and his colleagues from scrutiny while pretending to do the opposite.
The issue is how House leaders dealt with warnings that Rep. Mark Foley (R-Fla.) had sent inappropriate e-mail to a teenage page. The speaker announced with considerable satisfaction that he hopes to appoint an independent "person of high caliber" -- but not to do what is obviously needed, which is investigate whether the House botched the response, thereby endangering more pages. Instead, Mr. Hastert said, he wants someone "to advise us on the page program." He floated the idea of naming former FBI director Louis J. Freeh but pulled back when Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) wouldn't go along.
Let's save the speaker, and whoever his eminent person turns out to be, some time by offering advice right now: No congressman should harass pages. No one should send them what White House press secretary Tony Snow dismissed as "naughty e-mails." And if there's even a hint that one of your colleagues is doing so, or wants to, don't brush it off. "The buck stops here," the speaker said yesterday, declaring that "we're taking responsibility." But announcing that doesn't make it so.
Yesterday's gambit followed an earlier tack, which was to turn the matter over to the FBI. The FBI has a role to play in determining whether criminal violations occurred, but the appropriate constraints on the bureau -- in the scope of its investigation and its ability to share information with the House and the public -- make it an ill-suited vehicle "for us to try to find out what happened," as the speaker put it. Meanwhile, responding to the uproar with finger-pointing suggestions that the other side leaked the matter, as Mr. Hastert did yesterday, isn't going to fly. Would he be happier if the information hadn't come out?
The House ethics committee's announcement yesterday of an investigation is a development to be taken more seriously. As we've said previously, there are legitimate questions about the panel's ability to handle something with this much political sensitivity, given Republican efforts to undermine its power and independence and given its dysfunction during the Abramoff scandal. That's why an independent investigator -- a "person of high caliber," in the speaker's phrase -- would have been the best way to ensure a thorough investigation and unsparing conclusions.
That apparently wasn't seriously considered, though, so now the ethics committee's integrity is on the line. It should resist calls for haste (including from Ms. Pelosi, who risks appearing more interested in electoral timelines than a thorough inquiry), but it also must work briskly and without regard for political fallout.
How the Democrats Would Rule the Hill
An interesting article from the Times exploring the various ways things would change under democratic rule should they win back the House and or Senate.
Two pretty obvious things they say include that Pelosi will likely be the Speaker and that of course the issues of focus would certainly change; they mention the minimum wage and the stem cell debate.
They also, however, discuss how the majority would be only slight leaving the democrats no room to lean too far to the left. They suggest that regardless of the outcome, a middle ground (with regards to partisanship) will be necessary, especially since we will be coming into a presidential election cycle.
Two pretty obvious things they say include that Pelosi will likely be the Speaker and that of course the issues of focus would certainly change; they mention the minimum wage and the stem cell debate.
They also, however, discuss how the majority would be only slight leaving the democrats no room to lean too far to the left. They suggest that regardless of the outcome, a middle ground (with regards to partisanship) will be necessary, especially since we will be coming into a presidential election cycle.
GOP's Hold on Evangelicals Weakening
This is an interesting article about how some of the GOP's most religious voters might be having second thoughts, due mostly to the Iraq war, but also now because of the current sex scandal and Bush's views toward torture. While the shift is not that significant overall, seeing how close many races are, the loss of a few percent of core voters could assist the Dems in some tight races come November.
Bush defies Congress, and can apparently edit security reports
"WASHINGTON -
President Bush, again defying Congress, says he has the power to edit the
Homeland Security Department's reports about whether it obeys privacy rules while handling background checks, ID cards and watchlists.
In the law Bush signed Wednesday, Congress stated no one but the privacy officer could alter, delay or prohibit the mandatory annual report on Homeland Security department activities that affect privacy, including complaints.
But Bush, in a signing statement attached to the agency's 2007 spending bill, said he will interpret that section "in a manner consistent with the President's constitutional authority to supervise the unitary executive branch."
The American Bar Association and members of Congress have said Bush uses signing statements excessively as a way to expand his power."
I'm not sure what he's doing is completely legal, but I suppose if he's the head of the executive branch and thus in charge of everyone else of that branch he can "force" the guy to change his reports. But even then that's pretty borderline for legality but with it inching towards not being legal. I'm much too tired to figure out anything further then this.
President Bush, again defying Congress, says he has the power to edit the
Homeland Security Department's reports about whether it obeys privacy rules while handling background checks, ID cards and watchlists.
In the law Bush signed Wednesday, Congress stated no one but the privacy officer could alter, delay or prohibit the mandatory annual report on Homeland Security department activities that affect privacy, including complaints.
But Bush, in a signing statement attached to the agency's 2007 spending bill, said he will interpret that section "in a manner consistent with the President's constitutional authority to supervise the unitary executive branch."
The American Bar Association and members of Congress have said Bush uses signing statements excessively as a way to expand his power."
I'm not sure what he's doing is completely legal, but I suppose if he's the head of the executive branch and thus in charge of everyone else of that branch he can "force" the guy to change his reports. But even then that's pretty borderline for legality but with it inching towards not being legal. I'm much too tired to figure out anything further then this.
SPORTS TAKE OVER CONGRESS
While doing some online research, I was shocked by the amount of pointless legislation that wastes precious time on Capitol Hill and worse, taxpayer money. One thing stood out in particular, and that was the fact that when a professional or collegiate sports team wins a championship, a senator from the team’s home state proposes a bill congratulating them.
I may be treading on the toes of a long held tradition, but it seems to me to be a giant waste of time. We elect these people to guide and shape the future of our country, and while important legislation stagnates in committee for years, senators are proposing and passing bills that are the equivalent to a pat on the back for winning a game.
I’m certain that not a single player on last year’s Pittsburgh Steelers team was elated and ecstatic to hear that Senator Rick Santorum passed a bill congratulating , or anyone from the University of Wisconsin hockey team stared longingly into a television tuned into CSPAN to make sure he got his thanks from Senator Russ Feingold.
These teams are already praised in the national sports media, which is now bigger and more influential then ever, they are praised by their coaches, team owners and institutions, they have parades held in their honor, are given keys to their respective cities. People even spend their own money to buy shirts and hats that proudly state which team won which game. They already get thanks enough, so is it really necessary for our senators to sign their congratulations into law?
I may be treading on the toes of a long held tradition, but it seems to me to be a giant waste of time. We elect these people to guide and shape the future of our country, and while important legislation stagnates in committee for years, senators are proposing and passing bills that are the equivalent to a pat on the back for winning a game.
I’m certain that not a single player on last year’s Pittsburgh Steelers team was elated and ecstatic to hear that Senator Rick Santorum passed a bill congratulating , or anyone from the University of Wisconsin hockey team stared longingly into a television tuned into CSPAN to make sure he got his thanks from Senator Russ Feingold.
These teams are already praised in the national sports media, which is now bigger and more influential then ever, they are praised by their coaches, team owners and institutions, they have parades held in their honor, are given keys to their respective cities. People even spend their own money to buy shirts and hats that proudly state which team won which game. They already get thanks enough, so is it really necessary for our senators to sign their congratulations into law?
Bush Says Democrats Shouldn't Be Trusted!
Bush says that Democrats should not be trusted in Congress because of the way they reacted to the September 11 attacks. Bush states that they just want to sit there and wait to be attacked again. Democrats fired back saying that Rice was briefed by the CIA about the attacks 2 months prior to it actually happening. Rice claims that she does not remember this meeting. All of this is going on while Republicans are having their fundraiser dinners to support their camping. Overall, its kind an interesting article because it just shows the two sides fighting. It is also an interesting because the Republicans are trying to do damage control over the incident in Florida.
Slate follows Senate races; Dems leading
Slate offers a feature of where the Senate races are each day and has indicators to how each of the close races are today.
The races seem to show that overall, the races that are in contention are leaning Democrat. Is this a result of the "referendum on Iraq" or can this be explained by something else?
If it is a national sign of the public's stance on Iraq, then it would be wise of the public to think less about the short-term instabilities and more about the long-term ramifications of any policy in the country before casting a vote on Nov. 7.
The races seem to show that overall, the races that are in contention are leaning Democrat. Is this a result of the "referendum on Iraq" or can this be explained by something else?
If it is a national sign of the public's stance on Iraq, then it would be wise of the public to think less about the short-term instabilities and more about the long-term ramifications of any policy in the country before casting a vote on Nov. 7.
Probably not too suprising
Bush didn't seem to thrilled about this whole scandal and even publically said he wanted Foley to be prosecuted. It's pretty interesting given the fact that he's campaigning right now for congressmen.
Foley Scandal and High Morality.
This scandal is getting worse than previously thought, because more is known about it now. The fact that Republicans knew about it and didn't do anything. The question is, could the core right-wing religious base of Republicans be turned-off by this scandal, and would not come vote in large numbers? As this article highlights, "Across the country as a whole, local Republicans have been running a number of campaigns, accusing the Democrats of being out of step with "family values". Who is out-of-step now, may be this is the last push that Democrat needed to oust Republicans from the Congress, and take majorities in both senate and House. Now beside war in Iraq, andother big issue which hugely favored Republicnas in last election, their values, would not be favoring them, atleast for a little while. What you think?
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/americas/5400536.stm
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/americas/5400536.stm
Out of No Where, New Troubles for GOP
New York Time is reporting that top house Republicans knew about e-mail between Representative Mark Foley and the teenage page. Republicans kept this matter secret, and allowed Mr.Folley to remain head of Congressional caucus on children's issues. This is some of the stuff that Congressman wrote to the 16 year old boy, "How are you weathering the hurricane. . .are you safe. . .send me a pic of you as well.What do you want for your birthday coming up. . .what stuff do you like to do". Do you think that GOP is in big trouble for knowing this and not making it public, or not doing anything about it? It becomes more troubling to know that Mr.Foley was head of Congressional caucus on children's issues. Now, it is believed that Republicans are going to lose this seat, which they were almost certain to win before. Are they going to lose even more seats because of this issue?
http://www.nytimes.com/2006/10/01/washington/01foley.html?hp&ex=1159761600&en=72f54d420adcb9e2&ei=5094&partner=homepage
http://www.nytimes.com/2006/10/01/washington/01foley.html?hp&ex=1159761600&en=72f54d420adcb9e2&ei=5094&partner=homepage
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