Thursday, April 30, 2009
Steele: I Agree With Limbaugh On Specter
Steele is the greatest thing that could happen for the Democrats. Keep on talking Michael.
Wednesday, April 29, 2009
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
Senator Arlen Specter Switches Parties
From The DCCC:
How's this for bringing change to Washington?
Moments ago, longtime GOP Senator Arlen Specter, a Republican since 1966, announced he is switching parties and becoming a Democrat!
Senator Specter's bombshell comes on the heels of Democratic Congressman-elect Scott Murphy's come from behind victory in NY-20. It also comes as the ongoing legal battle in Minnesota draws closer to a conclusion that will now make Al Franken the 60th Democratic vote in the U.S. Senate....
In making his announcement that he is now a Democrat, Senator Specter said, "I now find my political philosophy more in line with Democrats than Republicans. When I supported the stimulus package, I knew that it would not be popular with the Republican Party. But, I saw the stimulus as necessary to lessen the risk of a far more serious recession than we are now experiencing."
How's this for bringing change to Washington?
Moments ago, longtime GOP Senator Arlen Specter, a Republican since 1966, announced he is switching parties and becoming a Democrat!
Senator Specter's bombshell comes on the heels of Democratic Congressman-elect Scott Murphy's come from behind victory in NY-20. It also comes as the ongoing legal battle in Minnesota draws closer to a conclusion that will now make Al Franken the 60th Democratic vote in the U.S. Senate....
In making his announcement that he is now a Democrat, Senator Specter said, "I now find my political philosophy more in line with Democrats than Republicans. When I supported the stimulus package, I knew that it would not be popular with the Republican Party. But, I saw the stimulus as necessary to lessen the risk of a far more serious recession than we are now experiencing."
Monday, April 27, 2009
Sen Leahy: Torture Prosecution on Face The Nation
Why not jus have The D.O.J. investigate and prosecute. That is their job is it not?
Saturday, April 25, 2009
Mexico flu 'a potential pandemic' - School closed in Queens, New York
This is all over the news in Europe....
From BBC NEWS:
A new flu virus suspected of killing at least 60 people in Mexico has the potential to become a pandemic, the World Health Organization's chief says.
Margaret Chan said the outbreak was a "health emergency of international concern" and must be closely monitored.
Health experts say tests so far seem to link the illnesses in Mexico with a swine flu virus in the southern US.
Several people have also fallen ill in the US, and the authorities there are watching the situation.
A top US health official said the strain of swine flu had spread widely and could not be contained.
Speaking after a meeting of the WHO's emergency committee, Mrs Chan said that "the current events constitute a public health emergency of international concern".
The WHO is advising all member states to be vigilant for seasonally unusual flu or pneumonia-like symptoms among their populations - particularly among young healthy adults.
Officials said most of those killed so far in Mexico were young adults - rather than more vulnerable children and the elderly.
The committee has not recommended declaring an international public health emergency and raising the global pandemic alert level, a move that could lead to travel advisories, trade restrictions and border closures.
New strain
At least some of the cases show a new version of the H1N1 Swine flu substrain - a respiratory disease which infects pigs.
It does not normally infect humans, although sporadic cases do occur, usually in people who have had close contact with pigs.
H1N1 is the same strain that causes seasonal flu outbreaks in humans, but the newly detected version contains genetic material from versions which usually affect pigs and birds.
The virus is spread through coughs and sneezes and through direct and indirect contact between people.
Mexican officials have confirmed 18 deaths from the virus and are investigating dozens more.
Schools, museums and libraries have been closed across the capital's region and people are being urged to avoid shaking hands or sharing crockery.
All public events have been suspended, an official said. Two previously sold-out soccer matches were played in empty stadiums to avoid potentially spreading the virus.
Health officials are isolating individuals suspected of having the virus and inspecting their homes.
The Roman Catholic Church in Mexico has recommended measures to avoid further contagion at Mass this Sunday.
Priests have been told to place communion wafers in the hands of worshippers rather than in their mouths and to suggest to the congregation that kissing or shaking hands be avoided during the service.
'Caution'
In the US, 11 people are now known to have been infected with the new strain - seven people in California, two in Texas, and two in Kansas.
There are also eight suspected cases in New York City after 200 students at a high school fell ill.
Specimens were taken from nine students, and eight were determined to be probable cases of swine flu, said city health commissioner Dr Thomas Frieden.
Those samples are now being examined by the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
No children had required hospital treatment and many had fully recovered, said Dr Frieden, but the school could remain closed out of "an abundance of caution".
He urged people to maintain basic hygiene, such and covering their mouths when coughing and sneezing, washing hands regularly and keeping surfaces clean.
Dr Frieden said most people would not need to take antiviral medication if they fell ill, unless they had an underlying medical conditi
From BBC NEWS:
A new flu virus suspected of killing at least 60 people in Mexico has the potential to become a pandemic, the World Health Organization's chief says.
Margaret Chan said the outbreak was a "health emergency of international concern" and must be closely monitored.
Health experts say tests so far seem to link the illnesses in Mexico with a swine flu virus in the southern US.
Several people have also fallen ill in the US, and the authorities there are watching the situation.
A top US health official said the strain of swine flu had spread widely and could not be contained.
Speaking after a meeting of the WHO's emergency committee, Mrs Chan said that "the current events constitute a public health emergency of international concern".
The WHO is advising all member states to be vigilant for seasonally unusual flu or pneumonia-like symptoms among their populations - particularly among young healthy adults.
Officials said most of those killed so far in Mexico were young adults - rather than more vulnerable children and the elderly.
The committee has not recommended declaring an international public health emergency and raising the global pandemic alert level, a move that could lead to travel advisories, trade restrictions and border closures.
New strain
At least some of the cases show a new version of the H1N1 Swine flu substrain - a respiratory disease which infects pigs.
It does not normally infect humans, although sporadic cases do occur, usually in people who have had close contact with pigs.
H1N1 is the same strain that causes seasonal flu outbreaks in humans, but the newly detected version contains genetic material from versions which usually affect pigs and birds.
The virus is spread through coughs and sneezes and through direct and indirect contact between people.
Mexican officials have confirmed 18 deaths from the virus and are investigating dozens more.
Schools, museums and libraries have been closed across the capital's region and people are being urged to avoid shaking hands or sharing crockery.
All public events have been suspended, an official said. Two previously sold-out soccer matches were played in empty stadiums to avoid potentially spreading the virus.
Health officials are isolating individuals suspected of having the virus and inspecting their homes.
The Roman Catholic Church in Mexico has recommended measures to avoid further contagion at Mass this Sunday.
Priests have been told to place communion wafers in the hands of worshippers rather than in their mouths and to suggest to the congregation that kissing or shaking hands be avoided during the service.
'Caution'
In the US, 11 people are now known to have been infected with the new strain - seven people in California, two in Texas, and two in Kansas.
There are also eight suspected cases in New York City after 200 students at a high school fell ill.
Specimens were taken from nine students, and eight were determined to be probable cases of swine flu, said city health commissioner Dr Thomas Frieden.
Those samples are now being examined by the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
No children had required hospital treatment and many had fully recovered, said Dr Frieden, but the school could remain closed out of "an abundance of caution".
He urged people to maintain basic hygiene, such and covering their mouths when coughing and sneezing, washing hands regularly and keeping surfaces clean.
Dr Frieden said most people would not need to take antiviral medication if they fell ill, unless they had an underlying medical conditi
Toomey leads Specter in PA
Pat Toomey is now leading Senator Arlen Specter, 51% to 30% in the PA Republican Senate primary. Specter a liberal Republican Senator is in deep political trouble this year. More troubling for Specter is the fact that a lot of Republican's who voted for him in the 2004 primary are now Democrats.
Daley backs away from Senate bid in Illinois
Former Commerce Secretary William Daley has taken himself out of the running for the U.S. Senate in Illinois. Daley's decision not to run means that Treasurer Alex Giannoulias is the heavy favorite to unseat Senator Roland Burris in the Democratic primary. Daley is also not interested in serving as Ambassador to China in the Obama administration.
Maloney hires state finance director
U.S. Congresswoman Carolyn Maloney has hired a state finance director for a possible run for the U.S. Senate in New York in 2010. Maloney and U.S. Rep. Caroyln McCarthy are frequently mentioned as possible challengers to Democratic appointed U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand in 2010. The race should heat up over the summer with U.S. Rep. Peter King the likely GOP candidate.
Friday, April 24, 2009
Tedisco Concedes-Murphy Wins N.Y. 20th
From Scott Murphy;
We did it! Just after I sent the last email I spoke with Representative Tedisco who conceded graciously.
We did it! Just after I sent the last email I spoke with Representative Tedisco who conceded graciously.
Hannity Volunteers To Be Waterboarded
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Thursday, April 23, 2009
Wednesday, April 22, 2009
Accountability For Torture
From George Soros;
This morning a coalition of human rights groups and other organizations launched an appeal to the President to establish a commission of inquiry to examine and report publicly on America's use of torture in the period since September 11, 2001. Please sign the petition and forward this email to your friends, family, and colleagues.
http://commissiononaccountability.org/
Regards,
Michael Vachon
Office of George Soros
This morning a coalition of human rights groups and other organizations launched an appeal to the President to establish a commission of inquiry to examine and report publicly on America's use of torture in the period since September 11, 2001. Please sign the petition and forward this email to your friends, family, and colleagues.
http://commissiononaccountability.org/
Regards,
Michael Vachon
Office of George Soros
Tuesday, April 21, 2009
FBI's newest 'Most Wanted' terrorist is American
From A.P.
For the first time, an accused domestic terrorist is being added to the FBI's list of "Most Wanted" terror suspects.
Daniel Andreas San Diego, a 31-year-old computer specialist from Berkeley, Calif., is wanted for the 2003 bombings of two corporate offices in California.
Authorities describe San Diego as an animal rights activist who turned to bomb attacks and say he has tattoo that proclaims, "It only takes a spark."
...............................................................................................................................................................................
Bet he is a PETA member. These are the lunatics who persecuted Michael Vick and never want him to be able to play football again. O.K. to kill humans as far as these wackos are concerned.
For the first time, an accused domestic terrorist is being added to the FBI's list of "Most Wanted" terror suspects.
Daniel Andreas San Diego, a 31-year-old computer specialist from Berkeley, Calif., is wanted for the 2003 bombings of two corporate offices in California.
Authorities describe San Diego as an animal rights activist who turned to bomb attacks and say he has tattoo that proclaims, "It only takes a spark."
...............................................................................................................................................................................
Bet he is a PETA member. These are the lunatics who persecuted Michael Vick and never want him to be able to play football again. O.K. to kill humans as far as these wackos are concerned.
Sunday, April 19, 2009
Rush Limbaugh: "John McCain Admitted Torture Worked On Him"
No question-Rush is back on Oxy Big Time. I say he be made to detox cold turkey. He can than give us an informed opinion of Torture. He could make a video of himself withdrawing. I would love to watch the pig sweating and puking and begging for Oxy.
No Amnesty for Torturers
From Democrats.com
On Thursday, President Obama stood up to intense pressure from rightwingers by releasing four of the infamous "torture memos." This is an enormous victory for those of us who worked so hard to elect President Obama, while also working tirelessly to defend the Constitution against the crimes of Bush and Cheney.
Unfortunately, President Obama also said he would not prosecute CIA agents who engaged in torture, simply because George Bush's lawyers told them it was "legal." President Obama also said Attorney General Eric Holder would use taxpayer dollars to defend torturers against lawsuits by torture victims, and to pay all judgments if they lost.
Tell Congress: No Amnesty for Torturers http://www.democrats.com/no-amnesty-for-torturers
These decisions are intolerable and unacceptable. Torture is utterly immoral and un-American. It produced absolutely no useful intelligence . It recruited terrorists responsible for at least half the U.S. deaths in Iraq . And it endangered every U.S. soldier who may be captured in the future.
And torture is absolutely illegal. The U.S. ratified the United Nations Convention Against Torture , which prohibits torture and requires prosecution of torturers. In 1947, the U.S. prosecuted a Japanese officer for waterboarding. No lawyer can "legalize" what is illegal.
On Thursday, President Obama stood up to intense pressure from rightwingers by releasing four of the infamous "torture memos." This is an enormous victory for those of us who worked so hard to elect President Obama, while also working tirelessly to defend the Constitution against the crimes of Bush and Cheney.
Unfortunately, President Obama also said he would not prosecute CIA agents who engaged in torture, simply because George Bush's lawyers told them it was "legal." President Obama also said Attorney General Eric Holder would use taxpayer dollars to defend torturers against lawsuits by torture victims, and to pay all judgments if they lost.
Tell Congress: No Amnesty for Torturers http://www.democrats.com/no-amnesty-for-torturers
These decisions are intolerable and unacceptable. Torture is utterly immoral and un-American. It produced absolutely no useful intelligence . It recruited terrorists responsible for at least half the U.S. deaths in Iraq . And it endangered every U.S. soldier who may be captured in the future.
And torture is absolutely illegal. The U.S. ratified the United Nations Convention Against Torture , which prohibits torture and requires prosecution of torturers. In 1947, the U.S. prosecuted a Japanese officer for waterboarding. No lawyer can "legalize" what is illegal.
Saturday, April 18, 2009
President Obama to back Dodd
Connecticut US Senator Chris Dodd has received a huge vote of confidence: the support of the President.
Said Obama: "I can't say it any clearer: I will be helping Chris Dodd because he deserves the help. Chris is going through a rough patch. He just has an extraordinary record of accomplishment, and I think the people in Connecticut will come to recognize that....He always has his constituencies at heart, and he's somebody I'm going to be relying on and working very closely with to shepeard through the types of regulatory reforms we need".
...........................................................................
This is a bullshit endorsement. Dodd has done good things but the bottom line is Dodd has used his office for personal gain with the countrywide scandal, he told us that Freddie and Fannie were strong and we find out both are major donors to his campaign, he inserted language to prevent limits on excessive bonuses to executives. Now he wants to work with the President on regulatory reform. He's too faced and hes been in Washington too long. I know this is a progressive blog but if Dodd is the nominee, I am supporting Rob Simmons. I am sick and tired of these people thinking they can do whatever the hell they want with no consequence. Like they are above the average American and above the law. Enough is enough!
Said Obama: "I can't say it any clearer: I will be helping Chris Dodd because he deserves the help. Chris is going through a rough patch. He just has an extraordinary record of accomplishment, and I think the people in Connecticut will come to recognize that....He always has his constituencies at heart, and he's somebody I'm going to be relying on and working very closely with to shepeard through the types of regulatory reforms we need".
...........................................................................
This is a bullshit endorsement. Dodd has done good things but the bottom line is Dodd has used his office for personal gain with the countrywide scandal, he told us that Freddie and Fannie were strong and we find out both are major donors to his campaign, he inserted language to prevent limits on excessive bonuses to executives. Now he wants to work with the President on regulatory reform. He's too faced and hes been in Washington too long. I know this is a progressive blog but if Dodd is the nominee, I am supporting Rob Simmons. I am sick and tired of these people thinking they can do whatever the hell they want with no consequence. Like they are above the average American and above the law. Enough is enough!
Friday, April 17, 2009
Olbermann-Prosecute Bush War Criminals
Obama is making a huge mistake. He can't simply give a wink and a nod to the abhorrent and clearly illegal acts of the likes of Cheney, Fieth, Addington, Yu and the rest of the crew. If we don't learn from history we are doomed to repeat it. Contact your representatives and demand an investigation. We can"t allow this to be swept under the rug.
Visit msnbc.com for Breaking News, World News, and News about the Economy
Thursday, April 16, 2009
Limbaugh Defends Somali Pirates
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Wednesday, April 15, 2009
CNN Reporter Slams "Tea-Bagger" For Obama/Nazi Picture
Morons On The March. He doesn't even know what a fascist is.
Tuesday, April 14, 2009
New York Governor introduces bill to legalize same sex marriage
The New York Times is reporting that NY Governor David Paterson will announce on Thursday plans to legalize same-sex marriage in New York. Senate Majority Leader Malcolm Smith supports the measure but will not allow it to come up for a vote unless he knows that the votes are there to pass it. Sen. Thomas Duane who is a Manhattan Democrat and strong gay marriage supporter believes the bill will pass the Senate.
Republican Senate Campaign Chairman backs Specter
Texas Senator John Cornyn, Chairman of the National Republican Senate Campaign Committee is taking sides in the Pennsylvania Republican Senate primary, he's throwing his backing behind Arlen Specter over former Congressman Pat Toomey.
Specter is in the political fight of his life with Toomey and many poll's in the keystone state show Toomey leading Specter. Specter has already gone on the air with TV ad's for a race that is a still a year off.
Cornyn pointed out the Specter fits Pennsylvania and would be a better general election candidate.
..................................................................
Specter is in trouble. A lot of the moderate-liberal Republicans that backed him in 2004 over Toomey are now Democrats. I think Specter would win a general election easily but if he wins the primary, it will be a very narrow win.
Specter is in the political fight of his life with Toomey and many poll's in the keystone state show Toomey leading Specter. Specter has already gone on the air with TV ad's for a race that is a still a year off.
Cornyn pointed out the Specter fits Pennsylvania and would be a better general election candidate.
..................................................................
Specter is in trouble. A lot of the moderate-liberal Republicans that backed him in 2004 over Toomey are now Democrats. I think Specter would win a general election easily but if he wins the primary, it will be a very narrow win.
Monday, April 13, 2009
Saturday, April 11, 2009
Friday, April 10, 2009
Paul Reickhoff On Rachel Maddow Show
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Obama Notre Dame Commencement Address
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Thursday, April 9, 2009
KRIS KRISTOFERSON
Great Article in Rolling Stone on Kris by ETHAN HAWKE
Standing backstage at the Beacon Theatre in New York, leaning against a crumbling brick wall in the dark, I could barely see Kris Kristofferson standing to my left. Willie Nelson was in the shadows to my right. Ray Charles was standing beside Willie, idly shifting his weight back and forth. A bit farther along the wall were Elvis Costello, Wyclef Jean, Norah Jones, Shelby Lynne, Paul Simon and respective managers, friends and family. Everybody was nervous and tight. We were there for Willie Nelson's 70th birthday concert in 2003.
Up from the basement came one of country music's brightest stars (who shall remain nameless). At that moment in time, the Star had a monster radio hit about bombing America's enemies back into the Stone Age.
"Happy birthday," the Star said to Willie, breezing by us. As he passed Kristofferson in one long, confident stride, out of the corner of his mouth came "None of that lefty shit out there tonight, Kris."
"What the fuck did you just say to me?" Kris growled, stepping forward.
"Oh, no," groaned Willie under his breath. "Don't get Kris all riled up."
"You heard me," the Star said, walking away in the darkness.
"Don't turn your back to me, boy," Kristofferson shouted, not giving a shit that basically the entire music industry seemed to be flanking him.
The Star turned around: "I don't want any problems, Kris — I just want you to tone it down."
"What?"
"Don't 'What?' me, boy! You heard the question. You just don't like the answer." He paused just long enough to get a full chest of air. "I asked, 'Have you ever served your country?' The answer is, no, you have not. Have you ever killed another man? Huh? Have you ever taken another man's life and then cashed the check your country gave you for doing it? No, you have not. So shut the fuck up!" I could feel his body pulsing with anger next to me. "You don't know what the hell you are talking about!" More.
.......................................................................................................................................................................
This Article is a great tribute to one of the legends of Country Music. Saw him with Willie, Waylon and Jessie Coulter in Toronto almost 30 years ago. Thanks Ethan. Rumor has it that the unnamed Star was Toby Keith.
Standing backstage at the Beacon Theatre in New York, leaning against a crumbling brick wall in the dark, I could barely see Kris Kristofferson standing to my left. Willie Nelson was in the shadows to my right. Ray Charles was standing beside Willie, idly shifting his weight back and forth. A bit farther along the wall were Elvis Costello, Wyclef Jean, Norah Jones, Shelby Lynne, Paul Simon and respective managers, friends and family. Everybody was nervous and tight. We were there for Willie Nelson's 70th birthday concert in 2003.
Up from the basement came one of country music's brightest stars (who shall remain nameless). At that moment in time, the Star had a monster radio hit about bombing America's enemies back into the Stone Age.
"Happy birthday," the Star said to Willie, breezing by us. As he passed Kristofferson in one long, confident stride, out of the corner of his mouth came "None of that lefty shit out there tonight, Kris."
"What the fuck did you just say to me?" Kris growled, stepping forward.
"Oh, no," groaned Willie under his breath. "Don't get Kris all riled up."
"You heard me," the Star said, walking away in the darkness.
"Don't turn your back to me, boy," Kristofferson shouted, not giving a shit that basically the entire music industry seemed to be flanking him.
The Star turned around: "I don't want any problems, Kris — I just want you to tone it down."
"What?"
"Don't 'What?' me, boy! You heard the question. You just don't like the answer." He paused just long enough to get a full chest of air. "I asked, 'Have you ever served your country?' The answer is, no, you have not. Have you ever killed another man? Huh? Have you ever taken another man's life and then cashed the check your country gave you for doing it? No, you have not. So shut the fuck up!" I could feel his body pulsing with anger next to me. "You don't know what the hell you are talking about!" More.
.......................................................................................................................................................................
This Article is a great tribute to one of the legends of Country Music. Saw him with Willie, Waylon and Jessie Coulter in Toronto almost 30 years ago. Thanks Ethan. Rumor has it that the unnamed Star was Toby Keith.
Bob Smith runs for Senate, from Florida
Anyone remember Bob Smith? The right wing conservative Republican U.S. Senator from New Hampshire who John Sununu unseat in the 2002 GOP primary. Well Smith is now living in Florida, the Sarasota area and has decided to jump into the race for Mel Martinez's seat in the Senate. Smith considered running in 2004 but bowed out.
..............................................................
Smith will never beat Gov. Crist in the GOP primary so I am not worried about him going back to the Senate.
..............................................................
Smith will never beat Gov. Crist in the GOP primary so I am not worried about him going back to the Senate.
Eliot Spitzer 2010?
Former disgraced NY Governor Eliot Spitzer has been hitting the cable TV circuit quite a lot recently in addition to sharing his thoughts regarding the economy with several editorial boards.
It's leaves open the question, with Paterson's approval rating's sinking, is Eliot Spitzer considering a comeback? It would be unreal if Spitzer ran for Governor in 2010 but it's New York and anything can happen. Right?
It's leaves open the question, with Paterson's approval rating's sinking, is Eliot Spitzer considering a comeback? It would be unreal if Spitzer ran for Governor in 2010 but it's New York and anything can happen. Right?
Wednesday, April 8, 2009
Tuesday, April 7, 2009
Monday, April 6, 2009
Saturday, April 4, 2009
Former Secretary of the Army Clifford Alexander: Repeal Dont ask, dont tell
Bravo For Clifford Alexander. Same old Colin.
Countdown-Another Tough Week For The G.O.P.
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Thursday, April 2, 2009
Dept of Justice drops charges against Stevens.....WTF
U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder has dismissed all federal corruption charges against former Alaska Republican Senator Ted Stevens. Stevens was defeated narrowly by Mark Begich after a Virginia jury convicted him on several corruption charges. Holder dismissed the charges because he believes that the U.S. Attorney's Office committed prosecutorial misconduct in hiding evidence and taking actions which unfairly prejudiced Steven's defense. Holder does not necessarily think Stevens is innocent but he doesn't like the way the case was handled.
Stevens was indicted on seven counts of failing to properly report gifts and was found guilty on all seven counts of making false statements.
..............................................................
Holder's decision to drop these charges is ludicrous and now Alaska Republicans are calling for a special election in Alaska since Stevens has been "vindicated". Holder has also possibly opened the government up to a lawsuit from Stevens. What the hell is Holder thinking?? This is such bullshit. Republican Senator's wanted Stevens out of the Senate and had he been re-elected, he would of been expelled. If this was a Democratic Senator and Bush was President you better believe the Bush Justice Dept. would be prosecuting. This is a major disappointment from the Obama Justice Dept.
Stevens was indicted on seven counts of failing to properly report gifts and was found guilty on all seven counts of making false statements.
..............................................................
Holder's decision to drop these charges is ludicrous and now Alaska Republicans are calling for a special election in Alaska since Stevens has been "vindicated". Holder has also possibly opened the government up to a lawsuit from Stevens. What the hell is Holder thinking?? This is such bullshit. Republican Senator's wanted Stevens out of the Senate and had he been re-elected, he would of been expelled. If this was a Democratic Senator and Bush was President you better believe the Bush Justice Dept. would be prosecuting. This is a major disappointment from the Obama Justice Dept.
Dodd re-election is in trouble
Chris Dodd the longtime Democratic Senator from Connecticut is in deep political trouble. As Dodd's political stocks declines so do the chances of Democrat's keeping his Senate seat which is critical if Democrat's are to get a filibuster proof Senate.
A Quinnipiac poll has Dodd trailing former U.S. Rep. Rob Simmons, 50% to 34% in the 2010 match up. Dodd trails Republican Sam Caligiuri and Tom Foley, losing 41% to 37% in a race against Caligiuri and 43% to 35% against Foley.
Dodd has a 58% disapproval rating and a 33% approval.
Political analysts and insiders are saying that at some point DSCC Chairman Senator Bob Menendez and the White House will have to push Dodd aside, speculation is he could be offered an Ambassadorship to Mexico or a high profile Presidential appointment.
.......................................................................
Menendez is sticking with Dodd for now. The DSCC and the White House are going to face facts: Dodd is in serious political trouble. He has been a Senator for 30 yrs and he's losing to political novices. Dodd need's to be pushed aside in favor of CT Attorney General Richard Blumenthal. Dodd needs to step aside for the good of the party.
A Quinnipiac poll has Dodd trailing former U.S. Rep. Rob Simmons, 50% to 34% in the 2010 match up. Dodd trails Republican Sam Caligiuri and Tom Foley, losing 41% to 37% in a race against Caligiuri and 43% to 35% against Foley.
Dodd has a 58% disapproval rating and a 33% approval.
Political analysts and insiders are saying that at some point DSCC Chairman Senator Bob Menendez and the White House will have to push Dodd aside, speculation is he could be offered an Ambassadorship to Mexico or a high profile Presidential appointment.
.......................................................................
Menendez is sticking with Dodd for now. The DSCC and the White House are going to face facts: Dodd is in serious political trouble. He has been a Senator for 30 yrs and he's losing to political novices. Dodd need's to be pushed aside in favor of CT Attorney General Richard Blumenthal. Dodd needs to step aside for the good of the party.
Republican Tedisco leads by 12 votes in NY Dist
In the battle for the New York District 20 Congressional seat, Republican Jim Tedisco has taken a 12 point lead over Democrat Scott Murphy diminishing Scott Murphy's lead. Tedisco now leads Murphy 77,236 to 77,224.
Saratoga County is the largest county in the district and begins re canvassing on Friday. Saratoga is Tedisco's home base. Absentee ballots will also be a factor.
...............................................................
It's still up in the air but I am a bit nervous. Tedisco could narrowly pull this off. I know Paterson should have not appointed Gillibrand to the Senate seat. We are going to lose this seat.
Saratoga County is the largest county in the district and begins re canvassing on Friday. Saratoga is Tedisco's home base. Absentee ballots will also be a factor.
...............................................................
It's still up in the air but I am a bit nervous. Tedisco could narrowly pull this off. I know Paterson should have not appointed Gillibrand to the Senate seat. We are going to lose this seat.
Wednesday, April 1, 2009
Former Mayor Dinkins to co-chair Weprin for City Comptroller campaign
Former Mayor David Dinkins is throwing his political weight and support behind New York City Councilman David Weprin in the race for City Comptroller. Dinkins will serve as co-chairman of the Weprin for City Comptroller campaign.
The other campaign co-chairman is former Bronx Borough President and 2005 Democratic Mayoral nominee Fernando Ferrer.
Weprin is the son of the late Assembly Speaker Saul Weprin and the brother of Assemblyman Mark Weprin.
Weprin will face fellow City Council member's John Liu, Melinda Katz and David Yassky in the race for the office currently held by Bill Thompson who is running for Mayor.
.....................................................................
David Dinkins made sure Weprin wins the nomination with his endorsement. Weprin, Katz, and Liu will split Queens, Yassky will win Brooklyn narrowly and Weprin will take the Bronx with Ferrer's support and Manhattan with Dinkins support. Staten Island is overwhelmingly Republican however the small number of Democratic voter's could make a difference in a tight race between Weprin and Katz. Simcha Felder of Brooklyn was my choice for Comptroller however for one reason or another he has decided not to run. Weprin would be a good candidate and his connections in Albany could be a good thing for the city.
The other campaign co-chairman is former Bronx Borough President and 2005 Democratic Mayoral nominee Fernando Ferrer.
Weprin is the son of the late Assembly Speaker Saul Weprin and the brother of Assemblyman Mark Weprin.
Weprin will face fellow City Council member's John Liu, Melinda Katz and David Yassky in the race for the office currently held by Bill Thompson who is running for Mayor.
.....................................................................
David Dinkins made sure Weprin wins the nomination with his endorsement. Weprin, Katz, and Liu will split Queens, Yassky will win Brooklyn narrowly and Weprin will take the Bronx with Ferrer's support and Manhattan with Dinkins support. Staten Island is overwhelmingly Republican however the small number of Democratic voter's could make a difference in a tight race between Weprin and Katz. Simcha Felder of Brooklyn was my choice for Comptroller however for one reason or another he has decided not to run. Weprin would be a good candidate and his connections in Albany could be a good thing for the city.
Mark Green leads field for Public Advocate
According to a poll released from the Marist Institute Mark Green leads the Democratic field in the race for New York City Public Advocate. Green leads with 35%,
Norman Siegel trails with 14%, City Councilman Bill de Blasio receives 6% and City Councilman Eric Gioia receives 2%.
The election is in September and I expect things to develop in the next few months.
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This will be a tough race for New York City voters. I like Bill de Blasio a lot and I think he has been great on the Council, on the other hand, Mark Green was a very good Public Advocate and the city is in an economic crisis. Experienced proven leadership could be a plus. de Blasio ran the Hillary for Senate campaign in 2000 and is an ambitious Progressive Democrat who has signaled that he is ready to fight Green for the nomination. This is going to be the most competitive and closely watched race in the city. The big money will be with Green and at this point I don't see anyone defeating Green. It's my hope that de Blasio will consider staying on the Council and running for Speaker or Brooklyn Borough President in 2013. If de Blasio stays in the race, I wish him well but don't see anyone beating Green. I would be happy with either one in the Public Advocates office. At this early stage and after reading about the March 11th candidate forum at Fordham, this one is up to NYC voters who can't go wrong with Green or de Blasio.
Norman Siegel trails with 14%, City Councilman Bill de Blasio receives 6% and City Councilman Eric Gioia receives 2%.
The election is in September and I expect things to develop in the next few months.
.................................................................
This will be a tough race for New York City voters. I like Bill de Blasio a lot and I think he has been great on the Council, on the other hand, Mark Green was a very good Public Advocate and the city is in an economic crisis. Experienced proven leadership could be a plus. de Blasio ran the Hillary for Senate campaign in 2000 and is an ambitious Progressive Democrat who has signaled that he is ready to fight Green for the nomination. This is going to be the most competitive and closely watched race in the city. The big money will be with Green and at this point I don't see anyone defeating Green. It's my hope that de Blasio will consider staying on the Council and running for Speaker or Brooklyn Borough President in 2013. If de Blasio stays in the race, I wish him well but don't see anyone beating Green. I would be happy with either one in the Public Advocates office. At this early stage and after reading about the March 11th candidate forum at Fordham, this one is up to NYC voters who can't go wrong with Green or de Blasio.
Mayor Bloomberg lead's Dem rivals
According to a new poll from Quinnipiac University Mayor Bloomberg leads each of his Democratic rivals. Bloomberg leads Congressman Anthony Weiner 50% to 35% and City Comptroller Bill Thompson 50% to 34%.
Poll director Maurice Caroll said, "It's not that New Yorker's don't like Weiner or Thompson. They just don't know about them". In the Dem primary Weiner edges out Thompson with 47% undecided. Weiner has recently indicated that he might be poised to stay in the House rather then run against a popular Mayor. Thompson is raising money and intends to challenge Bloomberg in November.
Bloomberg's approval rating is at 69% and 69% of New Yorker's favor term limits while 25% oppose them however as Caroll said, "Term limits? We love them and we want them back--after we re-elect Bloomberg".
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Bloomberg has been a great Mayor. Unlike Giuliani, Bloomberg met with the city's African American leader's following the Sean Bell shooting. Bloomberg has praised the Obama economic plan. In NYC Bloomberg took a $6 billion deficit and turned it into a $3 billion surplus. He has expressed concern regarding the economic gap between rich and poor saying, "This society cannot go forward, the way we have been going forward, where the gap between the rich and the poor keeps growing". He has made HIV, diabetes, and hypertension priorities of his administration. He has instituted a $7.5 billion affordable housing plan that will provide housing to 50,000New Yorkers. Bloomberg is an independent thinker who is seeking to take politics out of city government and just run city government, not as a Democrat, not as a Republican, but as a leader. Bloomberg will be re-elected in a landslide.
Poll director Maurice Caroll said, "It's not that New Yorker's don't like Weiner or Thompson. They just don't know about them". In the Dem primary Weiner edges out Thompson with 47% undecided. Weiner has recently indicated that he might be poised to stay in the House rather then run against a popular Mayor. Thompson is raising money and intends to challenge Bloomberg in November.
Bloomberg's approval rating is at 69% and 69% of New Yorker's favor term limits while 25% oppose them however as Caroll said, "Term limits? We love them and we want them back--after we re-elect Bloomberg".
..............................................................
Bloomberg has been a great Mayor. Unlike Giuliani, Bloomberg met with the city's African American leader's following the Sean Bell shooting. Bloomberg has praised the Obama economic plan. In NYC Bloomberg took a $6 billion deficit and turned it into a $3 billion surplus. He has expressed concern regarding the economic gap between rich and poor saying, "This society cannot go forward, the way we have been going forward, where the gap between the rich and the poor keeps growing". He has made HIV, diabetes, and hypertension priorities of his administration. He has instituted a $7.5 billion affordable housing plan that will provide housing to 50,000New Yorkers. Bloomberg is an independent thinker who is seeking to take politics out of city government and just run city government, not as a Democrat, not as a Republican, but as a leader. Bloomberg will be re-elected in a landslide.
Freshman Congressman looking out for taxpayers
Kudos to freshman Congressman Alan Grayson a Democrat from Orlando, Florida. Grayson ousted four term Republican Congressman Ric Keller this past November and is already making a name for himself in Washington.
Grayson has introduced legislation that will halt the payout of "unreasonable and excessive" bonuses to employees of financial companies that have received federal bailout money. The bill let's the Dept. of Treasury and financial regulators set standards to avoid a repeat of the outrage over AIG. "We don't want people to get rich off taxpayer's funds", Grayson said. "If they destroy the institution they work for, they shouldn't be running off to the bank with millions".
In the U.S. House it said to be unusual for a freshman to shine of a major national issue. A spokesman for U.S. Congressman Barney Frank, Chairman of the House Financial Services Committee praised Grayson for coming up with the idea. "Whenever a freshman, or any member, expresses an interest in an issue, the chairman let's them take it and run with it," said spokesman Steve Adamske.
Scott Talbott who is the chief lobbyist for the Financial Services Round table said "This is a leading contender as a solution to the economic and political problem [of the bonuses]".
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I strongly supported Grayson for Congress this past fall. Grayson is former trial lawyer who has filed numerous lawsuits against government contractor's such as Halliburton and KBR. He started a crusade against private contractor fraud in Iraq. He has defended the public interest and will be great in Congress. I also think Grayson could be a future Senator or Governor, he will certainly have my support.
Grayson has introduced legislation that will halt the payout of "unreasonable and excessive" bonuses to employees of financial companies that have received federal bailout money. The bill let's the Dept. of Treasury and financial regulators set standards to avoid a repeat of the outrage over AIG. "We don't want people to get rich off taxpayer's funds", Grayson said. "If they destroy the institution they work for, they shouldn't be running off to the bank with millions".
In the U.S. House it said to be unusual for a freshman to shine of a major national issue. A spokesman for U.S. Congressman Barney Frank, Chairman of the House Financial Services Committee praised Grayson for coming up with the idea. "Whenever a freshman, or any member, expresses an interest in an issue, the chairman let's them take it and run with it," said spokesman Steve Adamske.
Scott Talbott who is the chief lobbyist for the Financial Services Round table said "This is a leading contender as a solution to the economic and political problem [of the bonuses]".
............................................................
I strongly supported Grayson for Congress this past fall. Grayson is former trial lawyer who has filed numerous lawsuits against government contractor's such as Halliburton and KBR. He started a crusade against private contractor fraud in Iraq. He has defended the public interest and will be great in Congress. I also think Grayson could be a future Senator or Governor, he will certainly have my support.
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