Rep. Dingell Balances Interests to Avoid Dingleberry

This article describes representative and House Energy and Commerce Committee Chair John Dingell’s (D-MI) decision to not force a fixed deadline for reducing emissions. Rather than follow Speaker Pelosi’s suggestion that a bill be passed calling for emissions to be halved by 2050, Dingell is continuing to hold hearings researching causal relationships specific to each type of emissions as well as deducing the logistics of what extent of reduction is feasible for each type of emission. Pelosi eventually agreed to not rush plans for emission reduction. The article also states that Dingell looks out for the interests of the auto industry despite having authored some of the most substantial environment sustainability legislation within the past thirty years. The median vote theorem finds Dingell’s moderation in calling for emissions reductions and his balancing of ecology interests with automobile industry interests to be effective in approximating the middle of the voters involved in his re-election, ensuring an overlap of electoral interests that wins him another plurality when his seat is up again.

karl rove rapping..for real at a fundraiser

this is a little off subject...but ties in with how the internet is affecting politics today. This is from youtube and personally I think HILARIOUS. if nothing else i thought the class might enjoy a good laugh.

Senate Sets Stage For Iraq Face-Off

President Bush invited the entire GOP Caucus to the White House to reaffirm his stance on the war in Iraq on the same day as the Senate approval on the 122 billion spending bill that calls for troop withdrawal of most forces by March 2008. The article suggested that the meeting is a message to Democrats that Bush will veto the bill. Because the bill only won by a few votes (51-49) and was split along party lines, the chances of a two-thirds majority to override the veto is unlikely. In addition, a final version of the bill must be agreed upon before the President even gets an opportunity to veto it. Because the decision for troop withdrawal is a major issue to many people, some Republican Senators may feel pressure to vote for it rather than stand with the President depending on the constituents in their respective states.

Odds, Ends, and Misc. Things

Okay, there are no real links to these things, but I would like to tie up some loose ends. As this blog deals with politics --and more specifically congressional politics.... Did anyone see South Park last night? It was one of the best I have ever seen, unless one happens to be a fan of Hillary Clinton's, rather, ummm, private parts shall we say. Also these days its seems that more nuttiness has come out of Iran, as if they could think up something worse. Maybe it is time that the U.K. got a backbone and declared war on the infidels....hmmmm....now thats a thought! If this had been Africa in 1907 you had better believe that an army would be there --in six months or less (guaranteed). But anyway , why should one of the major pillars of Western Civilization take this slap in the face from a two-bit third world nation that has no clue what the word "diplomacy" means. Like I said before, not really "congressional" so to speak, but the rantings of a mad conservative.

Comedian in Chief?

Who needs Colbert at a Correspondent dinner when you've got stuff this good? For anyone that may have missed the bizarre, yet hilarious and somewhat frighteningly real comments Bush made last night, I posted the story from CNN. This quote sort of sums up the evening:

"A year ago my approval rating was in the 30s, my nominee for the Supreme Court had just withdrawn, and my vice president had shot someone," President Bush said Wednesday night during the annual gathering.

"Ah," he said, "those were the good ol' days."

This is definitely worth the read. Also, PLEASE watch the improv rap song from the event with Karl Rove's wicked dance moves on full display (notice David Gregory from NBC news complementing Rove with his own unique dance style). There's a link at the bottom of the article. I guess when things are going this badly, you have to figure out some way to divert attention from the issues, even if it's ripping on your own administration.

Oh, and to tie this to Congressional politics in some way, Bush had these words:
"and I'd like to thank Senator Webb for providing security." Classic!

House Democrats Tout Budget as Deficit-Reducing

This article describes House Democrats’ attempts on March 28th to convince other representatives that their $2.9 trillion budget will result in a $153 billion surplus in 2012 despite planned increases in spending on national security, defense, education, and veterans’ affairs. They must be referring to a peak surplus for that year alone because the national deficit currently exceeds $3.2 trillion. Even if Democrats prevent an extension of the tax cuts enacted by Congress in 2001 and 2003, real income will not rise enough to produce enough of a surplus unless there is a drastic tax increase against corporations and other wealthy elite, who in turn might retaliate by raising the prices of goods and services beyond the reach of working-class individuals and families, which could spark a series of congressionally enacted minimum wage increases, which would require the retention of a Democratic majority…All the while paving the way for the small business owner to rise from the ashes, offering cheaper prices for goods and services as the corporations attempt to out-price the average consumer as revenge for the proletariat-led congressional rebellion against tax havens for the rich.
I believe the key sentence in the article is, “Under Congress' budget process, the annual budget resolution is a nonbinding outline that guides future legislation.” By showcasing partisan ideals about the budget, the annual budget bill provides ample opportunity for members of Congress to demonstrate their show horse appeal. The median vote theorem predicts that the mean effect of all appropriations bills approved by this Congress will reduce the deficit by several million dollars, a small step towards halving the deficit by 2012 (I doubt a net surplus will result by then) and a sustainable reduction that Republicans are likely to continue or even build upon if fiscally moderate Democrats happen to lose the majority.

Edwards’s Cancer Has Spread Into One of Her Hips

I find it an interesting debate over what Edwards should do with his family situation: he's got one. Having a family is a priority to him and some think this is a virtue for a future president while others see it as a vice.

Question: Is is a good or bad thing that Congressmen and women have the darndest time having a family and a political career?

There are so many examples of failed marriage, supposed cheating, and the likes. Should politicians be expected to have a perfect family life and do a good job in office?

Democrats take another step forward in war legislation

Democrats in the Senate turned back the Republicans attempt to remove the call for removal of the United States involvement including all troops from Iraq. This only adds to the democrat's confidence about their moves when it comes to issues on the war.

McGee spends $10,185 to defend seat

Its nice to see that an alderman spending 10,000 dollars made the news. What a dramatic difference from members of Congress. My favorite part of the article was the last paragraph where it mentioned that others who were running did not intend to raise or spend more than 1000 dollars. Talk about fiscal responsibility.

McCain's MySpace Page Hacked

Yet another example of how the internet is going to play a role in the '08 election.


ABC News' Jennifer Parker Reports: In what is perhaps a new weapon in campaign digital media warfare, the MySpace page of presidential candidate Senator John McCain, R-Ariz., was hacked Tuesday.

The March Madness Loophole

Its march madness baby, and we got some P T P ers. Apparently division 1 schools have lobbyists in Washington who can give members of congress tickets to both final four games and the championship. The packages can also "legally" include airfare, hotel and limo rides to and from the game. Wow this is a perk. "These contacts can give lobbyists golden opportunities to solicit earmarks for their schools." The cost of this package to any regular joe would be over 6 Gs. A big chunk of change. The rules allow public universities to give gifts to congress. Apparently some people are pissed about this, saying that big money is bad in politics. However, I love college basketball, and it has continued to grow into this huge money making machine, and I think this is one exception that I am willing to deal with. Go State!

My Fellow Americans: Pls Post a Comment!

Here is yet another example of how the internet is really playing a huge role in the upcoming election. Now you can post comments on the myspace walls of Senator Joe Biden and Governor Bill Richardson! This is definately a new type of campaigning that I think has the potential to really have an impact on the younger generations. This could be a good way to start informing potential younger voters that have traditionally been uninvolved.

Congress Expands Scope of Inquiries Into Justice Department Practices and Politics

This week Congress heard accounts from members of the Justice Department that acknowledged mistakes were made in relation to the F.B.I.'s mishandling of national security letters that were used to gain important information without judicial oversight. This article itself is an example of congressional oversight as the legislative branch puts pressure on the Justice Department in addition to the questions they have already raised concerning Attorney General Alberto Gonzales' specific involvement in the firing of eight U.S attorneys. As the media alerted the public about the questionable firings of the eight attorneys, Congress utilized fire alarm oversight to investigate the matter and is taking a similar step in this incident concerning the national security letters. Congress's criticisms of Attorney General Gonzales are a part of their larger discontent with Bush administration.

Democrats Pass Iraq Appropriations Bill

This article summarizes the House’s 218-212 vote to approve an appropriations bill that not only allocates $128 million to American forces in Iraq and Afghanistan but also requires American forces to withdraw from Iraq no later than September 2008, possibly sooner depending on the extent to which the Iraqi government complies with or violates specific terms not elaborated upon in the article. I used THOMAS to search for the bill, but there were so many similar-sounding bills that have received recent floor action that I decided to just use the information from the article. Such articles really should include the short title of the bill and/or the bill number. Anyway, Bush was right in more ways than one when he opined, “Political theater…These Democrats believe that the longer they can delay funding for our troops, the more likely they are to force me to accept restrictions on our commanders, an artificial timetable for withdrawal and their pet spending projects.” The Dems are likely to continue their battle against Bush’s war well into the summer due to their electoral mandate, and the sheer number of bills about what to do with the Iraq war (over a hundred on both houses) taxes the limit of how many of the roll call votes any given representative or senator can be in attendance for. As stated on page 118 of Steve Smith’s [u]The American Congress[u], it is very difficult for any member of Congress to be present for all roll call votes. The availability of Congressional members interacts with the large number of Iraq-related bills to produce a chaotic effect that is tempered primarily by W the veto actor. Meanwhile, domestic bills that Bush is less likely to veto fall by the wayside.

A Brave New World of Political Skulduggery?

This article greatly coincides with our lecture on campaign advertisements and the growing influence of internet advertisements. Here is a scenario in which a person made amd anti-Clinton video and posted it on YouTube. He flashed Obama's campaign website at the end, suggesting that Obama was in some way connected with the video. This ad has now been viewed more than 2 million times. I think this is just one of many situations in which the internet is going to play a huge role in informing people and influencing them in regards to the upcoming elections.

need a partner

If anyone does not have a partner for the HW next week and is in town, let me know! I was kinda sick last week and did not want to deal with this! Email me at wcwalker.edu. Thanks!

2008: March Money Madness

Hillary and Bill held a fundraising campaign in which attendees had to pay 1000$ to attend. She netted 2.7 million for her campaign. This amount blows me away, I guess I never really thought about how much money they actually spend to get elected. Even more astonishing is that the washington post is predicting that "the collective field could match in a single quarter the nearly $100 million that George W. Bush raised during his record-breaking primary effort two presidential cycles ago.” It doesnt seem like the thing the candidates hate the most is raising money since they are doing more than ever. Also, the article said that only finger foods were served, if I am paying a thousand dollars to hear somebody speak I had better be getting a steak.

White House issues veto threat on Iraq pullout bill

It seems that everyone has posted something on this site about the war; however, it seems like many of us, including myself, may have been missing a very key elements to the stopping of the war...the things that go along with the bills that they may be passing. In the Presidents speech yesterday he spoke of having "clean" bills. Up until then it had never crossed my mind as to what may be thrown on some of these bills, which may be very realistic ones, but made unpassable by the things that may be attached to them. Maybe if we cut some of the pork we could have a way, that many people may agree on, to get out of Iraq.

"No" votes and not showing up to vote doesn't make Reps look good.

As far as the vote to withdrawal troops and to cut spending, President Bush's strongest allies for the war in Iraq, Sen. John McCain didn't even show up to vote, because he was too busy campaigning in Iowa at the time. What kind of message is this sending to the Senators constituencies in Arizona?? Is he too concerned with his own campaign and his own career to be apart of a vote that affects millions of dollars and thousands of American troops in Iraq. Also can someone explain to me why Democratic Rep. Barbara Lee of California would not vote when support for the Democrats is so crucial?

Just like a Broadway play, congressional hearings have many acts.

We all know agenda's are abound and seemingly important things are discussed in congressional hearings, but this article shows just how monotonous and sometimes trivial they can be. The whole process of a congressional hearing appears to be organized chaos, with all committee members rarely present at the same time and some senators attending multiple hearings at once.

US legislation could set Iraq pullout date

The House is considering important legislation that could require troops to pull out of Iraq all together by September 2008. I see this as two dimensions, spatically, one dimension with bringing the troops home and the other making Iraq safe. Many people want both, but some feel enough is enough. Senator John Kerry has claimed that it is time that Iraq start taking responsibility for itself. In other words, Kerry feels Iraqis should assume more responsibility for Iraq so that the United States does not have to. It seems that more people feel that bringing the troops home is more salient than a safe Iraq in this Democratically controlled Congress.

Dems Demand more Cash

This is a really good example of what we have talked about in class. We learned that elections that tend to be really close spends more money. In other words, if there is serious a challenger and incumbents spend lots of money. Now, because the Democrats have taken over Congress, the House democratic leaders are asking their colleagues to cough up $155 million for campaign operations. That sounds to me like the Democrats are expecting to have a very close races. This has received some criticism as people's ideal points differ on how much more money is needed. Even more Democrats like, Diane E. Watson, have pointed out that raising that much money is a full time job and takes away from the time Congress people spend in Congress. I see this as driving a small rift through the Democratic party.

Hillary Invokes Proletarian Interests

(Note: I’m posting twice this weekend because I finally have the time to do so, pushing myself over the minimum threshold for grade-A posting.) This article summarizes the press conference that Senator Hillary Clinton (D-NY) held in Nashua, New Hampshire, at which she vowed to enhance domestic programs that would help the working class rise from poverty and aid the middle class in staying above poverty. It should be noted that she did not mention what she would do to assist businesses or to protect the holdings of the rich, and sensibly so: Although those earning above $70,000 annually have the highest vote turnout (about 86% compared to middle-class 65% and working-class 52%), they comprise the smallest segment of the population by far (about 12% compared to middle-class 32% and working-class 56%). Collectively, the absolute number of active voters not earning over $70,000 annual income is significantly larger than the number of active voters earning $70,000 or less annual income. Of course, the difficulty lies in convincing those the programs would appeal to that the proposed measures are feasible. The “too-good-to-be-true” argument ultimately prevents such a proletariat-centered platform from becoming the Condorcet winner (unless another Great Depression hits the United States).

Hagel Stays Out of Presidential Race

This article summarizes the press conference that Senator Chuck Hagel (R-NE) held at the University of Nebraska to announce he would not seek nomination for the 2008 presidential race, stating, “I want to…not divert my energy, efforts, and judgment with competing political considerations.” Hagel’s decision is sound because being socially and fiscally moderate in addition to opposing the Iraqi War makes Hagel a de facto Republican In Name Only (RINO), precluding him from gaining the presidential or vice-presidential GOP nomination. Hagel’s refusal to jump parties results in a candidate who has alienated himself from both potential bases of the strongest support, which hinders his chances of presidential nomination and election far more than it does a possible 2008 Senate race. Whereas Hagel is not even close to gaining enough of an overlap of interests to gain the presidency, log rolling with GOP partisans might be just the thing to make him a Condorcet winner come Senate nomination time. Hagel also acknowledged that running as a third-party presidential candidate would be a waste. (I suppose he figures there are already enough third-party candidates to split the vote…Perhaps in return for a kickback, or else why invest so many resources in a guaranteed failed venture? Something or another is adding to the third-party candidates’ immediate satisfaction from running…)

partner anyone?

does anyone still need a partner for the upcoming assignment? Please email me at mereidy@uwm.edu. Thanks!!

YouTube Sets Aside 'Channel' for Presidential Candidates

I thought this was a very interesting article after we were talking about voters being ignorant for the most part. I think that using a media like youtube, young voters in particular, can become more educated in the future. This perhaps is overly optimistic but who knows.

The New Dean Political Plan

"I am trying to build relationships with other governments in preparation for a Democratic takeover," Dean told me. "I want to make clear that there is an opposition in America and that we are ready to take power and that when we do, we are going to have much better relationships with them."


I think this is an interesting quote. He is claiming that a Democratic takeover would actually get something accomplished. I would love to see either party take a more controversial stance on, well anything really....although each side is claiming to either take power or reunite the party etc. I have yet to see any real action take place.

Emanuel tells freshmen to avoid Stephen Colbert

So much for the idea that voters get Colbert.

Here's the whole story since the website seems to be getting hammered right now.

Emanuel tells freshmen to avoid Stephen Colbert

By Jonathan E. Kaplan

March 15, 2007

Rep. Rahm Emanuel (D-Ill.), the Democratic Caucus chairman, has told new Democratic members of Congress to steer clear of Stephen Colbert, or at least his satirical Comedy Central program, “The Colbert Report.”

“He said don’t do it … it’s a risk and it’s probably safer not to do it,” said Rep. Steve Cohen. But the freshman lawmaker from Tennessee taped a segment that last week was featured in the 32nd installment of the “Better Know a District” series. Colbert asked Cohen whether he was a black woman. He isn’t.

Eyes (but thankfully, not heads) roll in Emanuel’s office when other freshmen stumble, such as the time Rep. John Yarmuth (D-Ky.) got into a debate about the merits of throwing kittens into a wood-chipper, or when Rep. Zack Space (D-Ohio) explained that he is not his predecessor, convicted felon Bob Ney (R).

The freshmen respect Emanuel, but they don’t always follow his orders. On the other hand, avoiding the kind of publicity that only “The Colbert Report” can confer on a lawmaker may be the only advice from Emanuel that freshman Democrats are ignoring.

Last year, as the House Democrats’ chief election strategist, Emanuel engineered the party’s takeover of the House by capitalizing on a nationalized midterm election. Now, as the House Democratic spokesman, Emanuel is working to keep freshman Democrats in office. His thoughts on how to manage casework, campaign for reelection, and win favorable press coverage are rooted in former Speaker Tip O’Neill’s (D-Mass.) maxim that “all politics is local.”

“Pay attention to your district, don’t go Washington, go home every weekend,” is a message Rep. Peter Welch (D-Vt.) said Emanuel has drilled in. “He’s encouraging people to stay local and focus on change, change, change. He and [Speaker Nancy] Pelosi (D-Calif.) both say to renew your commitment to change every day … be local, be practical and maintain that connection to the district.”

Rep. Paul Hodes (D-N.H.) said of Emanuel, “He has been helpful and a pain-in-the-you-know-what, to my great benefit … he’s an advocate for making sure folks in the district know what you’re doing … Of course, he keeps a close watch on doing what we need to do to get reelected.”

Emanuel also understands that what works in a traditional Democratic district won’t necessarily work in a more conservative district, Rep. Chris Carney (D-Pa.) said.

If lawmakers are doing their jobs and staying out of trouble, chances are Emanuel won’t say anything. If they stumble, he speaks up. Hodes considers Emanuel a mentor who understands the value of “tough love.”

One freshman who has been on the receiving end of Emanuel’s “tough love” is Rep. Steve Kagen (Wis.), who boasted to a group of anti-war activists that he had dressed down President Bush’s top political adviser, Karl Rove, during a White House reception. The administration denied the story.

But Emanuel threw a fit. Kagen’s staff was hauled into the Democratic Caucus’s office for lessons on how to handle the media, Democratic sources said.

Rep. Nancy Boyda (D-Kan.) said, “It took [Emanuel] three weeks to come down off of the ceiling” after she refused to accept the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee’s (DCCC) assistance in her bid to win reelection in 2008.
Boyda said Emanuel would “worry until November 4, 2008, but he says it in a very caring, grandmotherly way.”

Emanuel is not the only House leader advising first-term Democrats. Pelosi hosts a weekly breakfast for freshmen and Majority Leader Steny Hoyer (D-Md.) guides them through the legislative process. Rep. Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), chairman of the DCCC, tells new lawmakers that the first 100 days is the time to cement their relationship with voters by ably handling constituent service requests and pushing a positive legislative agenda.

Victory won’t be easy in 2008. Democrats may have opportunities to defeat GOP incumbents or pick up open seats, but they first must defend 33 new incumbents of their own. In 1994, House GOPers gained 52 seats and had to protect 73 new freshmen. In 1996, Democrats defeated 12 GOP freshmen and picked up nine seats.

Some first-term Democrats can breathe a bit easier because former GOP lawmakers and conceivably strong GOP candidates have demurred, including former Reps. Richard Pombo (Calif.) and Rob Simmons (Conn.). Reps. Ron Klein (D-Fla.) and Brad Ellsworth (D-Ind.) also have had opponents decline to run.

Despite Emanuel’s energetic style of browbeating and worrying, freshman lawmakers esteem him.

“He’s the Al Davis of Congress,” said Rep. Patrick Murphy (D-Pa.), referring to the legendary owner of the Oakland Raiders who coined the phrase, “Just win, baby.”

Never say that you're not learning anything up here on the east side.

Democrat David Obey attacks "idiot liberals"

This may be breaking the unspoken blog format, but I thought it was interesting to see some thick Congress Action. There is quite a lot of technical jazz thrown out in this "interview" between a liberal group and Wisconsin's Dave Obey. It seems Obey is trying to use his years and years of experience in terms of how to proceed with the ugliness in Iraq.

What makes the situation in Washington so complex? Is it more than the war itself being complex and the decision makers not knowing what decision is best, or is there more institiuational complexity that comes with congress?

Either way, frustration is the emotion prevelent with Obey as well as the "idiot liberals."

Happy "Sunshine Week" Everybody!

In an apparent attempt to shed some light on some of the government's activities, the Democrats have introduced legislation to protect whistle-blowers, as well as to increase public access to government activities. While in office, Democrats claim Bush has restricted access to a number of items that should be available via the Freedom of Information Act. This is a real week-long event organized by the American Society of Newspaper Editors from March 11-17. Will it change anything? Who knows.

Veto players always get their way

The Senate on Wednesday began its first formal debate on the Iraq war since Democrats took control of Congress, taking up a measure calling for President Bush to withdraw combat troops by the end of next March. The White House swiftly issued a veto threat.The 89-9 vote paved the way for consideration of the Democratic legislation, which would start troop withdrawals within four months and calls for—but does not require—the complete removal of combat troops by the end of March 2008.


Yet another look at the way congress votes and how important a veto actor is. Although overwhelming (89-9) would pass it, the president can veto it. I suggest that congress move their ideal preferences closer to something the president would actually approve and not veto.

Legislator's love triangle implodes

I think the best part in this article is when Leon Young takes both of his mistresses on the same flight to Vegas. You do have to be a risk taker to be in politics.

Dems to Russert, Wallace, and Sheiffer: You're on notice!

I actually do watch the Sunday morning talk shows. I have noticed a trend toward more conservative guests and apparently so has a group of progressive Democratic Congressmen. A new study suggests that ABC's This Week, with George Stephanopoulos was the most balanced in opinions, while the others booked at least 10% more conservative opinions than liberal. The liberal media, eh? Anyway, I really don't think this matters all that much. After all, those who watch these programs (the few who do) probably form their political opinions on something more substantive than a softball question Russert tosses to Elizabeth Dole.

Dems optimistic about Iraq plan passage

Dems are pushing for a bill that would have us out of Iraq in under two years, but with house republicans and the White house standing united in opposition, the bill has little chance of success. Of course good ol' Dick Cheney threw his two cents, saying that the bill only empowers the "enemy" by telling them the date in which we plan on pulling out.

need a partner?

Does anyone need a partner for the homework assignment that was handed out today? I would really like to work with anyone available and I am willing to do any candidate. my email is dmweigel@uwm.edu, or you can find me on facebook. Thanks mucho.

-Deb

Lantos Introduces Iran Sanctions Legislation

I don't really have any idea why we are imposing sanctions on other countries that by into Irans nuclear power. I understand that they may be led by somebody crazy, but this will only affect our relationship (which is alreay in shambles) with our foreign allies. Also if we were so worried about what they are capable of, then wouldn't you try not to irritate the madman. All they are doing now is egging these extremest into a political area we simply aren't ready for.

Democrats Look to Scrap Spending Bill Riders

The example written about in the article was the Hyde amendment which restricts federal money from being used for abortions in most circumstances. While one can see why this is an issue the Democrats may not like they have to remember that this is a sword that will cut both ways. Now if the Republicans retake control and allow some sort of lumber contract, the Democrats can't put in a rider that says the contract needs to replant however much they take, or something of that sort. Closing this door will take any second chance they may want in the future.

Pelosi Reveals Who's Who On Global Warming Panel

Nancy Pelosi has finally announced the 15 official members of the new committee on global warming, formally known as the Select Committee on Energy Independence andGlobal Warming. The purpose of the committee is to raise the visibility of these energy and climate issues, rather than having legislative jurisdiction. This is a very short article, but I thought it was interesting to see that one of the 15 members is our very own Congressman Sensenbrenner!

Paperless Ballot Ban

Sen. Bill Nelson from Florida introduced the first legislation to ban paperless voting in the country. In a time when technology is skyrocketing and everything is going internet, it is important to make sure some things stay the same. I agree with Nelson. Without a paper trail, it is too easy for corruption on both sides. It doesn't matter how much easier it is to vote online or through a computer, it shouldn't be done. Think about Myspace for example. How many times has anyone tried to log on and the site is too busy or just loads improperly. Now imagine the entire nation logging on at the same time, and the site is built by the lowest bidder. It's just asking for trouble.

Senators argue about Alberto Gonzales

Senators fear that Attorney General Gonzales is much too political for his job. His job is not to solely serve the President any longer, his job is much more important than that. Many are calling for his resignation while others believe it may be the President's job to handle the situation.

Ted Kennedy Talks: Do I Listen??

There is an interesting article in today's Washington Post by that great lunatic from the left, none other than our friendly Ted Kennedy. Now, normally I don't put much stock by his "wisdom", but this article clearly does spell out that the Democrats are going to re-establish the balance of power in Washington. It's about time! Unfortunatly this bit of wisdom didn't come from someone a bit more credible than the most notorious drunk in D.C. This new Congress is going to hold Georgie's little behind to the fire on the numerous debacles that seem to follow his administration, but that is exactly what the Congess is supposed to do. It was never intended to be a rubber stamp for every idiotic idea that came from the White House, but since January of 2001 it has been --until now. Way to go Teddy! For once you are dead right.

Bush Asks Congress for Armed Forces Funding Shift

Although the headline emphasizes Bush’s request for a budget revision to shift $3.2 billion from particular defense items into another troop buildup, the real story here is the composition of the appropriations bill Bush wants Congress to approve. During an international flight on March 10th, President Bush signed a letter (likely prepared by his cabinet) beckoning Congress to approve his latest armed forces appropriations bill, which would enable the deployment of 8,200 more troops to Afghanistan and Iraq in addition to his separate planned deployment of 21,000 American soldiers to Iraq. Given that about 47.5% of the requested funds are to fund Iraqi police and security forces to help the Iraqi government be more able to enforce its laws to eventually reduce dependence on American forces, it is likely that a two-thirds supermajority coalition of Republican and Bluedog Democrats will vote in favor of the bill in both chambers. Any revision that passes both the House and the Senate are unlikely to be much different from the original appropriations bill, as the 52% of requested funds going towards combat support troops is necessary to stabilize attacks against coalition forces, and the 0.5% of requested funds going towards reconstruction teams is appropriate for restoring infrastructure damaged in attacks. Therefore, it is safe to say that Bush’s appropriations proposal is a Condorcet winner in both chambers of Congress and will then (obviously) be signed into effect by President Bush.

Democrats’ Iraq Plan Draws Broad Support, Poll Shows

One of the first poles to test individual public opinion in individual congressional districts since the 2006 midterm elections. The pole results reveal that the democrats plan from with drawl of Iraq by early 2008. Also, 58% also oppose Bush's plans for a surge in the amount of troops. The result of this could be negative if Congress does not act. It is possible that voters could vote for a challenger in the next election if no pull out happens.

House Dems Face Uphill Battle Over Iraq

This article, from the New York Times, is about Nancy Pelosi (Speaker of the House) and a problem she is having. She introduced legislation that would require troops to leave Iraq by fall 2008. Even though her own party (Democrats) is in control of Congress, there are still some difficulties because the democrats hold a slim majority and if some defect then the legislation would not pass.

The democrats are divided about what to do. Some want more involvement and some want less involvement in Iraq. Some Democrats want out by March 2008. Democrats ideal points all over the political spectrum. Getting the bill in a win set that would please Democrats is going to be difficult but through use of strategic voting, it is possible. Especially since some Republicans may support this legislation as well.

It's Like I'm On Crazy Pills or Something!

WHAT is the deal lately? Newt Gingrich admits to an extra-marital affair with HIS Congressional aide WHILE he's leading the attack on Bill Clinton for the Monica Lewinsky situation? Morality be damned, I suppose. He says he's not a hypocrite because he was only railing against Clinton for committing the crime of lying under oath. Well, OK. I guess I remember the situation a tad differently than Newt and the gang. What about all the conservatives calling for Scooter Libby to be PARDONED for committing the SAME crime? My head feels like it's about to explode here.

Broad Support for Dems' Iraq Plan?

That's what the folks over at MoveOn.org are claiming in their new poll. 58% of respondents oppose Bush's troop surge and 67% of voters want American troops to “be out of Iraq by early 2008.” The poll claims a majority of Americans in competitive right-leaning districts approve of a withdrawal date. I've consistently opposed the Iraq war from the beginning , but I'd take the poll for what it's worth, coming from an organization with political agenda. It's interesting if nothing else.

Obama pays parking tickets...only took him 17 years

Obama took care of some unfinished business at Harvard University, paying about $400 in parking fines dating back to his days as a law student. A Harvard grad, who wants to be our next president, cannot even pay his own parking tickets!! How can he handle a budget for an entire country?

Kohl pushes anti-trust issue

After Sen. Herb Kohl criticized the proposed hostile takeover of Midwest Airlines at a hearing Wednesday, he won a pledge from a top Justice Department official that any information sparking anti-trust concerns would be reviewed.

Kohl lauded Midwest Airlines, which he uses when flying to and from the nation's capital, as a "true success story." He said Midwest was unique as an airliner since it offered the highest quality of service and is "beloved by its customers."

Already the department has completed an initial review of the proposed takeover.
Barnett said while the department had closed its initial review, it was "not precluded from looking at it further based on additional information." He said he would take information from Kohl, his staff and constituents and consider whether anti-trust concerns arose. He noted that when the department examines competition, it considers competition both in price and quality.
Kohl said no one doubts Midwest's service would suffer if AirTran bought the airliner. More worrisome, he said, was AirTran's history of promising high levels of service when it enters new markets, then abruptly breaking those pledges. Since 2004, AirTran has left 29 markets it said it would serve; sometimes it returned with scaled-down offerings and other times, not at all, he said.


I think this is a good example of a Senator doing something for his constituents. Politicians on both side of the aisle have expressed that they do NOT want to see Midwest airlines be sold and the people of the state feel the same way. Midwest is held close to many of our hearts because of their great service, affordable prices, and personal care.

Scooter Libby

So, Libby was found guilty. He faces up to ten years in prison. I totally agree that he was guilty and am amazed that something was done about it. My big question is, what about the guy who actually leaked the name? Dick Cheney. Why hasn't he been brought up on charges?

Two Freshmen Learn the Perils of Talking Too Much

This article talk about freshmen representatives Michelle Bachman and Steve Kagen. Both representatives have received negative publicity because of outlandish comments and actions. (Bachmann claimed to know of an "Iranian plan to partitition the Northern part of Iraq if American troops withdrew"). The article has commentary from a political scientist that says that freshmen representatives should keep there mouth shut, and gain only wanted publicity. Bachmann is also a advocate of banning gay marriage, and made some innappropriate comments about this as well (see article). It also says that she is in a very good position for reelection, because of the very high amount of republican support in her district.
Her advantage as a incumbent has not decreased because of her comments, mostly because of the hoighty tighty area she represents. However, her advantage could get smaller if she keeps making national blunders. Maybe her sophomore surge will be smaller based on her past actions, if she gets reelected. She also ran against Patty Wetterling, who was a single issue candidate (child protection), and the democrats have a more centrist candidate lined up for next time (Female district attorney seems to be the trend in MN). I hope she is one and done I have seen enough.

Senate to question Army on Walter Reed

The senate and the President are starting to look into failures in the veteran's administration. This topic could be a potential hot button when elections come up next year. The republicans can speak of their swift concern and action, and the democrats will be asking how this was allowed to happen. It will be harder for incumbent republicans to distance themselves from the President if this is brought up during their campaign.

obama vs. hillary part 2393893

Obama and Clinton, joined by the former president, planned to speak at the same time from pulpits three blocks apart. They also were to appear together at a rally before making the ceremonial walk to the Edmund Pettus Bridge to honor the Selma-to-Montgomery marches.

As the season heats up, its hard to beleive that the election is yet soo far away. I am interested to see the endurance of these two candidates, and the positions they take, following each other around the country. Which came first, hillary or obama....the chicken or the egg.

Arizona's Other Senator Wants to Fix Leaks

On March 1st, Senator John Kyl (R – AZ) proposed an amendment this week to an anti-terrorism bill that would criminalize disclosure of at least three distinct classes of congressional reports. Kyl’s amendment primarily targets members of Congress and Capitol Hill staff, as the only people in a position to disclosure the content of such offline reports would be Congress members or other staff present during the issuing of the reports. This is actually Kyl’s third amendment to an anti-terrorism bill attempting to criminalize a broader array of information disclosure (via expanding the definition of “classified communications”) as well as increasing penalties for such offenses (such as doubling the maximum prison term for such disclosure). Although the Journal Sentinel did not report much congressional support for the bill as amended, that will be revealed in the next week or so when the amended bill hits the floor. Because the first two Kyl amendments were too draconian relative to the status quo of restricted communications, they were voted down in the Senate. Perhaps Kyl’s third try will be modest enough (adding only three groups of congressional reports) to obtain a simple majority (given the congressional emphasis on national security), but it is unlikely that the House will agree on the same provisions because the sentiment there is somewhat more populist and therefore in favor of a shift away from the high-security status quo but towards fewer classifications of communications, not more.

Children's Health Care on Agenda

This Washington Post article explains the current disagreement between Democrats and Republicans in Congress concerning the state-federal Children's Health Insurance Program. Democrats tend to favor a more robust program role that covers more children from families in different economic brackets while Republicans tend to favor a more limited role where the neediest children receive the assistance.
Below are the current ideal points and one possible outcome for the new proposal:
The nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office estimates the program needs 13-15 billion above current levels to keep covering the same number of children it currently covers. President Bush's administration has proposed 4.8 billion for the new budget. The Democratic majority in Congress has proposed 50 billion over the next five years. I believe the new budget will fall somewhere close to the 13-15 billion needed to support the current number of children at a point between the President and the majority in Congress's ideal points.

Democrats' plan: Meet goals or bring troops home

One of the problems that has plagued the democratic party was how much to scale back the involvement in Iraq. All of the democrats in the house have been working to come up with a compromise on how to go about this as they all have different ideal points. The end result of this looks to be a resolution which would change the status quo by authorizing spending and troops if the Iraqis live up to agreements made with the president, including coming to political agreement sharing the nation's oil resources as well as reconstruction. Failure to comply on the part of Iraq would mean they would get less US troops to battleterrorism.

I think that this change in the status quo is needed-why should we stick our troops and tax money over there if they are not going to live up to their ends of the bargain. They need to work to improve their situation, the United States can not do it for them.

Republicans United in Opposition?

This is an interesting article on the conservative and moderate factions within the Republican party attempting to put differences aside to defeat the Democrats in 2008. What's that you say? Wall Street and Main Street working together again after a decade of Wall Street domination? Realistically, their ideal points are still closer to each other than to the Democrats, so this does make sense. However, they do occupy very different positions on certain issues. So, can it work? Maybe, but it means a move to the middle. I argue that they have been trying this since Pat Robertson endorsed Rudy Giuliani for President. Giuliani holds positions on gay-rights and abortion rights that do not jive with the Christian right, and in any other campaign, would have meant the tele-evangelists on the attack. Hypocrisy? Absolutely! But they need somebody they think can win.

Democrats eye cuts to 2008 Iraq war request

In today's Congress, one of the big debates continues to be over military operation in Iraq and Afghanistan. Democrats have now proposed changing the status quo by cutting $20 billion from President's Bush proposed $ 142 billion budget from next year. There is also distinction about this policy in Congress. In order to successfully maintain the military operation, some members of Congress believe that rather than lowering the status quo, it will actually have to be increased to maintain the military operation for at least the next five years. This is an example of the legislative power that Congress holds over the president from the Constitution, President Bush may not be happy about this yet there is nothing he can do about it if Bush were to veto the bill and Congress overrides it. It just goes to show you how truly powerless the president is compared to congress.