usdemocrats.com political news weblog
APRIL 2008
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usdemocrats.com political news weblog
APRIL 2008
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Which presidential candidate
understands economics -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://www.bloggingstocks.com/2008/03/30....economics-best/
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FLOOR SCHEDULE FOR MONDAY,
MARCH 31, 2008 --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
House Meets At…
Last Vote Predicted…
2:00 p.m.: Legislative Business
Unlimited “One Minutes” Per Side 7:00 p.m.
Votes will be postponed until 6:30 p.m.
Suspensions (9 Bills): 1) H.R. 1187 - To expand the boundaries
of the Gulf of the Farallones National Marine Sanctuary and the
Cordell Bank National Marine Sanctuary (Rep. Woolsey – Natural
Resources) 2) H.R. 2342 - To direct the President
to establish a National Integrated Coastal and Ocean Observation
System, and for other purposes (Rep. Allen – Natural Resources) 3) H.R. 4933 - To amend the Lacey Act Amendments
of 1981 to protect captive wildlife and to make technical corrections,
and for other purposes (Rep. Bordallo – Natural Resources) 4) H.R. 3352 - To reauthorize and amend
the Hydrographic Services Improvement Act, and for other purposes
(Rep. Young (AK) – Natural Resources) 5) H.R. 3891 - To amend the National Fish
and Wildlife Foundation Establishment Act to increase the number
of Directors on the Board of Directors of the National Fish and
Wildlife Foundation (Rep. Brown (SC) – Natural Resources) 6) H.R. 2675 - To provide for the conveyance
of approximately 140 acres of land in the Ouachita National Forest
in Oklahoma to the Indian Nations Council, Inc., of the Boy Scouts
of America, and for other purposes (Rep. Boren – Natural
Resources) 7) H.R. 3651 - To require the conveyance
of certain public land within the boundaries of Camp Williams,
Utah, to support the training and readiness of the Utah National
Guard (Rep. Bishop (UT) – Natural Resources) 8) H.R. 2515 - To authorize appropriations
for the Bureau of Reclamation to carry out the Lower Colorado
River Multi-Species Conservation Program in the States of Arizona,
California, and Nevada, and for other purposes (Rep. Heller –
Natural Resources) 9) H.Con.Res. 302 - Recognizing the Month
of March as Colorectal Cancer |
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New Backing for Obama As Party
Seeks Unity -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://online.wsj.com/article/SB120692054573175525.html?mod=googlenews_wsj
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Obama Leads in Texas Caucus
Tally -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://ap.google.com/article/ALeqM5gYJaQiRyrP6rD0dGdWZKNbT3-S5gD8VO61S00
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Puerto Rico Governor Indicted
on Election Fraud Charges -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://www.cqpolitics.com/wmspage.cfm?docid=cqmidday-000002693267
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If you donate before midnight
tonight, your donation will be part of our March financial report
to the FEC. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Why is that important? This will be the final report before the next series of primaries, and the results will be sized up and interpreted by everyone trying to gauge the strength of our campaign. Thanks to you, we've won more delegates, more votes, and twice as many states as Senator Clinton. But this race isn't over yet. We're fighting a battle on two fronts. Senator McCain is attacking from one side, intent on suggesting that a third term of George Bush's policies is somehow the best path for our country. Meanwhile, Senator Clinton is attacking from the other, because her campaign has flatly stated that tearing us down is her only chance to win. There are 10 primaries and caucuses remaining in states like Pennsylvania, North Carolina, and Indiana. This two-front battle will require unprecedented resources, and we can't let up. Your donation, before midnight tonight, will build our campaign for the remaining contests and send a message of strength to all those scrutinizing the campaign finance reports. And don't forget -- tonight is also the last chance to become one of the donors eligible for a dinner with me we'll be having soon. Will you make a donation of $25 now? https://donate.barackobama.com/deadline There's one thing we already know about the March fundraising results: Senator Clinton and Senator McCain have raised a significant portion of their money from Washington lobbyists and special interest PACs. We've never done that, and we never will. Instead, we will continue to rely on more than a million individual donors who support this campaign by giving only what they can afford. Change does not come from the top down -- it comes from the bottom up. So rather than having expensive fundraising dinners to take contributions from Washington lobbyists, I'm hosting a different kind of dinner. If you are chosen from among the donors who give before midnight tonight, I'll get to hear your personal story and ideas about how we can solve America's biggest problems together. Donate before 11:59 p.m. EDT tonight, and you could join me for dinner sometime soon: https://donate.barackobama.com/deadline The pundits are slowly realizing something about our political process that we've known from the beginning: people matter. In unprecedented numbers, ordinary people are volunteering and donating to this campaign. They're taking true ownership in a way that has never happened before. When we started this campaign over a year ago, the pundits and the political insiders didn't think it was possible to mobilize ordinary people to reject conventional thinking and fight for real change. We have a chance to prove them wrong, and tonight is a critical deadline on this journey. Help us finish this quarter strong: https://donate.barackobama.com/deadline Thank you for your support, Barack |
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You have spoken loud and clear
over the past few days with a tremendous show of support. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Now we have just a few hours left before our midnight fundraising deadline. This is our last chance to show our strength in the midst of the onslaught from our opponent who wants this race to end before millions of Americans have their say. Together we are going to keep fighting and winning. But first we need to show that we have the resources to compete vigorously in the upcoming races, and I'm depending on you for that support. I wish you and I could share some of the experiences I'm having on the campaign together. But I recorded a special video message for you on the trail recently, and I hope you'll take a look. Click here to watch the video and make
a contribution to show our strength by our critical midnight
deadline. Even as little as $5 can make a difference. We're just short of reaching our $3 million goal by the end of the month -- your contribution could be the one that puts us over the top. Thank you so much for all you have done and continue to do -- on to victory! Thank you for everything, |
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C-SPAN Daily Alert -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- C-SPAN Highlights Tonight: Tomorrow: Tonight: Tomorrow: ********************************************************************** Tonight: Tomorrow: Tonight: Tomorrow: * Sen. John McCain's Latest Political Ad
- http://www.c-span.org/politics * Newspaper Articles & Viewer Calls ********************************************************************** * Treasury Secretary Henry M. Paulson Jr. on Monday launched the administration’s efforts to transform the financial regulatory system, declaring the current approach outdated and ripe for change...- Full Story at www.c-span.org/capitolspotlight/ * What was the last election year in which
Republicans won a majority of New York’s U.S. House seats?
- Answer at www.c-span.org/capitolspotlight/ |
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FLOOR SCHEDULE FOR TUESDAY,
APRIL 1, 2008 --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
House Meets At…
Last Vote Predicted…
10:30 a.m.: Morning Hour 12:00 p.m.: Legislative Business
Unlimited “One Minutes” Per Side 4:00 p.m.
Suspensions (14 Bills): 1) H.Res. 185 - Expressing the sense of
the House of Representatives regarding the creation of refugee
populations in the Middle East, North Africa, and the Persian
Gulf region as a result of human rights violations (Rep. Nadler
- Foreign Affairs) 2) H.Res. 997 - Expressing the strong support
of the House of Representatives for the North Atlantic Treaty
Organization to enter into a Membership Action Plan with Georgia
and Ukraine (Rep. Wexler - Foreign Affairs) 3) H.Con.Res. 154 - Expressing the sense
of Congress that the fatal radiation poisoning of Russian dissident
and writer Alexander Litvinenko raises significant concerns about
the potential involvement of elements of the Russian Government
in Mr. Litvinenko's death and about the security and proliferation
of radioactive materials (Rep. Ros-Lehtinen - Foreign Affairs) 4) H.Res. 865 - Expressing the sense of
the House of Representatives that the March 2007 report of the
United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime and the International
Bank for Reconstruction and Development makes an important contribution
to the understanding of the high levels of crime and violence
in the Caribbean, and that the United States should work with
Caribbean countries to address crime and violence in the region
(Rep. Clarke - Foreign Affairs) 5) H.R. 2040 – The Civil Rights Act
of 1964 Commemorative Coin Act (Rep. Lewis (GA) – Financial
Services) 6) H.Con.Res. 310 - Expressing support
for a national day of remembrance for Harriet Ross Tubman (Rep.
Cummings- Oversight and Government Reform) 7) H.Res. 1005 - Supporting the goals and
ideals of Borderline Personality Awareness Month. (Rep. Davis
(VA) - Oversight and Government Reform) 8) H.Res. 1021 - Supporting the goals,
ideals, and history of National Women's History Month (Rep. Woolsey
- Oversight and Government Reform) 9) H.R. 5168 - To designate the facility
of the United States Postal Service located at 19101 Cortez Boulevard
in Brooksville, Florida, as the "Cody Grater Post Office
Building". (Rep. Brown-Waite - Oversight and Government Reform) 10) H.R. 5551 - To amend title 11, District
of Columbia Official Code, to implement the increase provided
under the District of Columbia Appropriations Act, 2008, in the
amount of funds made available for the compensation of attorneys
representing indigent defendants in the District of Columbia
courts, and for other purposes (Rep. Davis (IL) - Oversight and
Government Reform) 11) S. 550 - A bill to preserve existing
judgeships on the Superior Court of the District of Columbia
(Sen. Akaka - Oversight and Government Reform) 12) H.Res. 945 - Raising awareness and
promoting education on the criminal justice system by establishing
March 2008 as "National Criminal Justice Month." (Rep.
Poe –Judiciary) 13) H.R. 1312 - Arts Require Timely Service
(ARTS) Act (Rep. Berman – Judiciary) 14) H.Res. 1061 - Observing the 40th anniversary
of the assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and encouraging
the people of the United States to pause and remember the life
and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and for other purposes
(Rep. Lewis (GA) – Judiciary) |
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Poll Watch: Obama with big
edge amongst Democrats, Dem. fight may ... -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://afroamericanpieblog.wordpress.com....g-consequences/
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Poll: Obama would be tougher
candidate against McCain -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- < In a Gallup poll released Monday, 59 percent of Democratic voters believe Obama has the best chance at beating John McCain. Thirty percent said Clinton was more likely to win a matchup with the Arizona senator. Republicans surveyed say Clinton would be the easiest to beat: 64 percent said Clinton would make a weaker fall opponent for McCain, while just 22 percent said Obama. read at source> http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/200....against-mccain/
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What would you ask Big Oil? -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Tough questions for Big Oilvideo * Diesel: The truck stops here Quick Vote * or View results NEW YORK (CNNMoney.com) -- Under the backdrop of record gas prices and record profits, Congress is set to grill executives Tuesday from the world's five biggest publicly traded oil companies. read at source> http://money.cnn.com/2008/03/31/news/economy/oil_hearing/index.htm live hearing> http://www.cnn.com/video/?iref=videoglobal#
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Clinton, Obama take on Big
Oil -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- * Story Highlights * Read From Suzanne Malveaux WILKES-BARRE, Pennsylvania (CNN) -- The Democratic presidential candidates are criss-crossing Pennsylvania this week, dropping in at gas stations and truck stops to convince voters they've got the best plan to tackle soaring gas prices and Big Oil profits. read at source> http://www.cnn.com/2008/POLITICS/04/01/dems.oil/index.html
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C-SPAN Daily Alert -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- C-SPAN Highlights Tonight: Tomorrow: Tonight: Tomorrow: ********************************************************************** Tonight: Tomorrow: Tonight: Tomorrow: * Sen. McCain Town Hall at Episcopal HS
in Alexandria, VA on C-SPAN2 at 8pm ET * Newspaper Articles ********************************************************************** * House Minority Leader John A. Boehner on Tuesday launched the Republican version of the message war over Iraq, saying Democrats were seeking to gain politically from the United States’ struggles there...- Full Story at www.c-span.org/capitolspotlight/ * What occurred on March 31, 1968, or 40
years ago Monday? - Answer at www.c-span.org/capitolspotlight/
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The Bush Administration Economic
Record: --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Bush Administration's economic performance over the last seven years has been an unmitigated disaster. Are we better off than we were in January 2001? A quick look at economic indicators shows that we are not: the price of gas has more than doubled, college costs are up more than a third, household income is down, and more Americans are unemployed. Despite the fact that the economy is clearly not working for American families, President Bush continues to offer optimistic platitudes that do not reflect reality. Instead of responding to troubling signs, the Administration has ignored these issues for years and pursued irresponsible fiscal policies that have made it more difficult to reverse this economic downturn. Read more about the Bush Administration's
dismal economic record, out-of-touch statements from Bush, and
record-setting Republican deficits and debt.
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Hoyer Statement on 40th Anniversary
of the Assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
WASHINGTON, DC – House Majority Leader Steny H. Hoyer (MD) spoke on the House Floor today before the House of Representatives unanimously passed a resolution observing the 40th anniversary - April 4, 2008 - of the assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Below are his remarks as prepared for delivery: “Mr. Speaker, forty years ago this Friday, Martin Luther King, Jr. was murdered. He was an American prophet. He called us to love justice, to love our brothers and sisters of every color. He spoke the truth. But on April 4, 1968, he was taken from us. “In this flawed and fallen world, hate and rage and violence will have their day. But if we can find even a sliver of good in that crime, it might be this: Dr. King died on a balcony. An open place. A public place. Dr. King showed us—he proved with his own body—that a just cause is worth dying for. “It’s worth living for, too. This resolution—even though I’ll vote for it wholeheartedly; even though, I trust, it will pass unanimously; even though it’s offered by my good friend John Lewis, who ‘toiled, and wrought, and thought’ with Dr. King—is just words on paper, unless we match it with resolution in our lives. “Our conduct, our actions, are the only honors we have worth giving. These words on paper take on value when, and only when, they spur us toward what Dr. King called ‘a committed life.’ “After the autopsy, which showed that his 39-year-old body held the strained and tired heart of an elderly man; after two brown mules pulled his casket in a wooden cart through the streets of Atlanta; after tens of thousands assembled to put him to rest—Dr. King spoke at his own funeral. “The loudspeakers played a tape of one of his old sermons, and these were the words that echoed through the Ebenezer Baptist Church: ‘I don’t want a long funeral… I’d like somebody to mention that day that Martin Luther King, Jr., tried to give his life serving others. I’d like for somebody to say that day that Martin Luther King, Jr., tried to love somebody. I want you to say that day that I tried to be right on the war question. I want you to be able to say that day that I did try to feed the hungry. And I want you to be able to say that day that I did try in my life to clothe those who were naked.’ “We can say all of it, with truth, about Martin Luther King, Jr. -- a great American, a great leader, and a great man, just like the sponsor of this important resolution. “May we do our best to live by their example.”
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FLOOR SCHEDULE FOR WEDNESDAY,
APRIL 2, 2008 --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
House Meets At… Last Vote Predicted…
10:00 a.m.: Legislative Business Fifteen “One Minutes” Per Side 4:00 p.m.
H.R. 5501 - Tom Lantos and Henry J. Hyde
United States Global Leadership Against HIV/AIDS, Tuberculosis,
and Malaria Reauthorization Act of 2008 (Rep. Berman - Foreign
Affairs) (Subject to a Rule) |
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Statement on Deadlock Over
FEC Appointments -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The White House and the Democratic Senate
are caught up in a cynical game of who blinks first when it comes
to making appointments to head the Federal Election Commission,
said Senator Mike Gravel during a campaign stop at Cornell University
in upstate New York. Learn More www.gravel2008.us
Jon Kraus |
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Majority Leader Hoyer on Global
AIDS Bill: U.S. Must Lead Fight Against this Global Challenge --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
WASHINGTON, DC – House Majority Leader Steny H. Hoyer (MD) spoke on the House Floor today in support of the Tom Lantos and Henry J. Hyde Global Leadership Against HIV/AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria Reauthorization Act, which builds on the U.S. commitment to combat the spread of these diseases across the globe. Below are his remarks as prepared for delivery: “Mr. Speaker, five years ago, the United States made an unprecedented commitment to the people of the world who suffer from HIV and AIDS, malaria and tuberculosis. We pledged $15 million – and with that funding, we have:
• Provided life-saving drugs to almost
1.5 million people; “We have played a very real role in helping to transform HIV and AIDS from death sentences to manageable diseases. “And, Mr. Speaker, as I said five years ago when we first passed this legislation, we must recognize that our nation has a moral obligation – and a national security interest – in combating the HIV/AIDS pandemic, as well as malaria and tuberculosis. “Today, with this legislation – the Tom Lantos and Henry J. Hyde Global Leadership Against HIV/AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria Reauthorization Act – we build on and boost our commitment to stop the spread of HIV/AIDS. Through this legislation, we make a $50 billion contribution to the fight to eradicate HIV/AIDS, malaria and tuberculosis. “In addition to expanding our prior efforts, this carefully negotiated legislation will:
• Strengthen HIV-related health care
delivery systems and increase health workforce capacities; “This bill also eliminates an ineffective requirement that 1/3 of PEPFAR prevention funds be spent on abstinence. Instead, we have directed the Administration create a ‘balanced’ approach, requiring behavioral change programs to receive 50% of the funds devoted to the prevention of sexual transmission of HIV. And, we require the Administration to report to Congress if programs in nations where the epidemic has become generalized do not adhere to this balanced approach. “This legislation represents both commitment and compromise. It will not make everyone happy. But it does signal to the international community that the United States recognizes and accepts our moral obligation to act. “Last year alone, 2.5 million people contracted HIV – roughly 6,800 people per day. And last year alone, 2.1 million people died of HIV. “Global AIDS is a problem too large to fall prey to political sport. “My very good friend, the late Chairman Lantos, noted five years ago that this health care crisis ruins families, communities and whole nations, fueling violence and bloodshed across borders. “And thus, it is a global challenge that demands a global, humanitarian response with the United States in the lead. “Mr. Speaker, this is a very good bill. It builds on proven outcomes. And, it deserves the support of Members on both sides of the aisle.”
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C-SPAN Daily Alert -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- C-SPAN Highlights Tonight: Tomorrow: Tonight: Tomorrow: ********************************************************************** Tonight: Tomorrow: Tonight: Tomorrow: * RWH: Sen. Kennedy & Chelsea Clinton
at Democrats Reception - C-SPAN, Sun., 6:30pm ET * Newspaper Articles * Senate negotiators reached what they called an “agreement in principle” Wednesday on a compromise package to begin addressing the nation’s housing crisis....- Full Story at www.c-span.org/capitolspotlight/ * When did a U.S. senator last lose a primary
to a U.S. House member? - Answer at www.c-span.org/capitolspotlight/
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FLOOR SCHEDULE FOR THURSDAY,
APRIL 3, 2008 --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
House Meets At… Last Vote Predicted…
10:00 a.m.: Legislative Business Five “One Minutes” Per Side 2:00 p.m.
H.R. 4847 – U.S. Fire Administration
Reauthorization (Rep. Mitchell – Science and Technology)
(Subject to a Rule) |
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Pelosi backs calls for US
Democrats to choose candidate -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://www.abc.net.au/news/stories/2008/04/01/2205119.htm?section=world
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Democrats Push Foreclosure
Relief -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://ap.google.com/article/ALeqM5hTPEQZyeqPg80iIH0uvvPz6Lz3mgD8VP55I00
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Everyone Does Better Under
Democrats -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://commentsfromleftfield.com/2008/04/everyone-does-better-under-democrats
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Senate Leaders Agree on Housing
Stimulus Bill -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://www.bloggernews.net/114923
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New coal bill emerges in Senate;
debates planned in both chambers -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://www.hdnews.net/wirestories/k1092-....thru-04-02-0498
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Experts on Iraqi affairs offer
testimony ahead of next week’s Petraeus-Crocker appearance -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- WASHINGTON (CNN) — Experts in military affairs testifying about the American “surge” strategy in Iraq report some clear progress by U.S. and Iraqi troops against insurgents, but say the Iraqi government hasn’t been able to exploit the strides on the battlefield to bring about political reconciliation. The Senate Foreign Relations Committee began hearing testimony this week on Iraq ahead of the appearances next week before Congress by Gen. David Petraeus, the top military commander in Iraq, and U.S. Ambassador to Iraq Ryan Crocker. President Bush will use their recommendations and insights to determine the next steps in Iraq. The “surge,” which started last
year, involved the increase of nearly 30,000 U.S. troops in and
near Baghdad, with a goal of creating military gains in order
to give Iraqi politicians the incentive and space to reach key
political accords with the government’s many factions. |
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Oil prices move higher -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- NEW YORK (CNNMoney.com) — Oil prices rose Wednesday after a government report showed a bigger-than-expected drop in gasoline supplies. Light, sweet crude for May delivery rose 47 cents to $101.45 a barrel on the New York Mercantile Exchange. Oil prices had been narrowly higher immediately before the report’s release. “(What) the market is really rallying on is the gasoline stocks,” said Andrew Lebow, a broker with MF Global. In its weekly inventory report, the Energy Information Administration (EIA) said gasoline supplies fell by 4.5 million barrels. Analysts had expected only a drop of 2 million barrels. –By CNNMoney.com’s Kenneth Musante |
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Clinton lead narrows in Pennsylvania,
Quinnipiac poll finds -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (CNN) — Hillary Clinton holds a 9-point lead over Barack Obama in the crucial state of Pennsylvania, a margin that is slightly down from a similar poll released last month. In the new Quinnipiac University Poll, Clinton draws 50 percent of support from likely Democratic voters in the state while Obama gets 41 percent. In a similar poll taken two weeks ago, Clinton was at 53 percent and Obama was at 41 percent. The poll was conducted March 24-31 and
carries a margin of error of plus or minus 2.5 percentage points,
the poll-takers said. Although it comes days after popular Pennsylvania
Sen. Bob Casey endorsed Obama, most of the poll was conducted
before that announcement. |
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Bush to hold first official
meeting with Russian president-elect -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- BUCHAREST, Romania (CNN) — President Bush will meet Russian President-elect Dmitry Medvedev for the first time on Sunday at Russia’s Black Sea resort of Sochi, the White House announced Wednesday. Bush had already been scheduled to meet outgoing President Vladimir Putin as part his European trip, but the news that Medvedev was joining them was new. Bush said last month he was “looking forward” to meeting Medvedev. –From CNN’s Elaine Quijano |
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Fed chairman says economy
may shrink in first half of year -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- NEW YORK (CNNMoney.com) — Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernanke, in his most pessimistic and blunt assessment to date, said Wednesday that a “recession is possible” for the U.S. economy. Speaking before a congressional committee, Bernanke said he wasn’t yet prepared to declare that the economy has fallen into a recession. Instead, he said that he believed the economy is still “slightly growing at the moment.” But he added that he believed it is possible that the economy could shrink over the first half of this year. In his opening remarks to the Joint Economic Committee of Congress, Bernanke he also said he expects further rises in unemployment and says the economic outlook has worsened since the Fed’s economic outlook was released in January. “It now appears likely that real gross
domestic product (GDP) will not grow much, if at all, over the
first half of 2008 and could even contract slightly,” Bernanke
said, although he said that he believes the economy will rebound
in the second half of the year. |
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U.S. military: In Basra, most
forces performed appropriately, ’some not up to the task’ -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- BAGHDAD (CNN) — Most of the Iraqi security forces participating in the offensive targeting criminals in Basra have appropriately carried out their missions, but “some were not up to the task,” according to a U.S. military official. This one was of the insights into the ongoing push from Maj. Gen. Kevin Bergner, who briefed reporters and answered questions in Baghdad about military and government operations in the southern oil-rich city. “The vast majority of Iraqi security
forces performed their mission. There were those who were unable
to do so,” said Bergner, who said the problem is being addressed
by Iraq’s government. |
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Gas prices back to record
high -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- NEW YORK (CNNMoney.com) — Average gasoline prices are back at their record high, a key survey conducted for the motorist group AAA showed Wednesday. The nationwide average price of regular rose a tenth of a cent to $3.287 a gallon, matching the record high reported Monday, according to AAA’s Web site. Regular was $3.165 a gallon on average at this time last month and $2.696 a gallon a year ago, according to AAA. The average price-per-gallon of diesel
fuel rose slightly to $4.025 a gallon. Diesel was at $3.674 last
month and $2.855 a year ago. |
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Senator challenges Bush intelligence
director on debate claims -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- WASHINGTON (CNN) — A member of the U.S. Senate’s intelligence committee is challenging President Bush’s director of national intelligence to document or retract claims he made about senators’ comments in a recent debate. During a March 28 speech at Furman University in South Carolina, Director of National Intelligence Mike McConnell referred to a Senate vote on updating the Federal Intelligence Surveillance Act. “There were some who said we shouldn’t have an intelligence community,” McConnell said during the speech. McConnell also said that some argued “the president of the United States violated the process, spied on Americans, should be impeached and should go to jail.” On Tuesday, Sen. Russ Feingold, a Wisconsin
Democrat and member of the Senate’s intelligence committee,
asked McConnell in a letter to back up his claims or “issue
an immediate correction and an apology.” |
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Justice Dept. declassifies
legal guidance approving harsh interrogation techniques -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- From Justice Producer Terry Frieden WASHINGTON (CNN) — The Justice Department Tuesday declassified a 2003 legal memo that said U.S. criminal laws and international treaties did not apply in the military treatment and interrogations of “enemy combatants” taken from the battlefield and held outside the United States. The controversial legal guidance, written by then-Deputy Assistant Attorney General John Yoo, was sent to the Pentagon to provide military interrogators with broad latitude for the use of harsh techniques in questioning prisoners captured in Afghanistan. The administration adopted the term “enemy
combatants” to refer to members of the Taliban and al-Qaeda
— fighters they said would not fall under the category of
prisoners of war if they were captured because they did not fight
for a country. |
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Clinton, Obama invited to
Indiana debate -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- WASHINGTON (CNN) — A consortium of Indiana television stations and newspapers has invited Democratic presidential hopefuls Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama to appear at a debate in their state ahead of its May 6 primary. The Indiana Debate Commission offered April 24 as the date for the event — two days after the Pennsylvania primary — but noted in the invitations sent this week that “we can work with you on the dates.” The debate would air live nationally on
CNN and PBS and on public television stations statewide. it also
would be made available to every commercial broadcast station
in Indiana. As of Tuesday afternoon, the commission had not yet
heard from the campaigns. |
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Obama wants Gore on his team -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (CNN) — Al Gore has a spot in a potential Barack Obama administration, the Illinois senator said Wednesday. Asked at a campaign event if he'd consider Gore for his cabinet, Obama immediately said he would. " I will make a commitment that Al Gore will be at the table and play a central part in us figuring out how we solve this [climate change] problem," Obama said. read at source> http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/
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Dean says he's committed to
seating Florida's delegates -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- * Story Highlights * Read Decrease font Decrease font (CNN) -- Democratic National Committee
Chairman Howard Dean said Wednesday the party would "absolutely
seat" a Florida delegation when it meets in August in Colorado
for the national convention. Howard Dean wants superdelegates to publicize
their pick for the Democratic nomination by July 1. "It is my commitment, working with the Florida delegation and the campaigns, to find a fair solution so that Florida will be seated -- and we are confident enough that we have reserved hotel rooms for the delegates from Florida in Denver," he said. read at source> http://www.cnn.com/2008/POLITICS/04/02/dems.campaign/index.html
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Jobless claims hit highest
mark in more than 2 years -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- NEW YORK (CNNMoney.com) — New filings for unemployment claims surged in the latest week to the highest level since September 2005, according to a government report released Thursday. The Labor Department said applications for unemployment benefits rose to 407,000 in the week ended March 29, up from a revised 369,000 claims in the previous week. The last time claims were this high was
in the week ending Sept. 17, 2005, just after Hurricane Katrina
hit the Gulf Coast. |
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Obama raised over $40 million
in March, campaign announces -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- WASHINGTON (CNN) — Sen. Barack Obama
raised over $40 million from more than 442,000 donors in March,
his presidential campaign announced Thursday. |
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Democrats question NIE optimism
on Iraq -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- WASHINGTON (CNN) — The latest National Intelligence Estimate of the situation in Iraq is far more positive about progress in the war than previous versions of the assessment by suggesting that President Bush’s “surge” strategy is working, according to two senior Democratic aides familiar with the latest version of the report. The classified NIE, which was distributed to key lawmakers on Capitol Hill earlier this week, is significant because it will set the table for the latest public progress report on Iraq that will be delivered next Tuesday and Wednesday to congressional committees by Gen. David Petraeus and Amb. Ryan Crocker. Democrats are already privately raising
questions about whether the new NIE is painting too rosy a picture
of the war and downplaying recent violence on the ground to strengthen
the President’s hand in advance of the Petraeus-Crocker
testimony. |
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Al-Sadr critical of Iraqi
government but offers help -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- BAGHDAD (CNN) — Radical Shiite cleric Muqtada al-Sadr on Thursday offered to help purge Iraqi security forces of militia members but criticized the Iraqi government for denying it had sent envoys to him to discuss last week’s government offensive in Basra. The Basra offensive sparked fighting between security forces in other Shiite cities and in Shiite neighborhoods of Baghdad. The clashes subsided after al-Sadr called for his followers to stand down, a pronouncement made on Sunday after meetings with Iranian officials and Iraqi Shiite lawmakers in Iran. “I advise everyone to end the sedition,
to stop the bloodshed and arrests immediately,” al-Sadr
said Thursday in a statement read to CNN by Saleh al-Ageili,
a spokesman for the Sadrist parliamentary bloc. “And if
the government cannot make infiltrators and other Baathists,
terrorists, militias of parties and saboteurs surrender, we are
ready to cooperate with them (the government) to cleanse our
army and police of them. Let the government and people be one
to liberate Iraq of the occupier.” |
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Senators tackle oil price
speculation -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- WASHINGTON (CNN) — As gas prices hit another record high Thursday, senators in Washington suggested Congress may need to intervene and change how investors buy and sell oil. The Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee tackled the complicated but potentially critical topic of speculation, raising the possibility that Congress might make it harder for investors to buy high-risk oil contracts, which some say are driving up gas prices. Sean Cota, a regional chairman with the Petroleum Marketers Association of America, said he thinks such contracts have an impact of “a minimum of a dollar a gallon.” “That’s very significant,” he said. –From CNN Radio’s Lisa Desjardins |
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Clinton backers: She must
win popular vote -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (CNN) — Two prominent supporters of Hillary Clinton suggested Thursday the New York senator needs to best rival Barack Obama in the total popular vote to have any chance at winning her party’s presidential nomination. In separate media interviews, New Jersey Gov. Jon Corzine and Pennsylvania Rep. Jack Murtha both indicated they believe Clinton will be unable to persuade enough superdelegates to support her if she finishes second to Obama in both the pledged delegate count and the popular vote. Speaking on CNBC, Corzine suggested it
won’t be enough for Clinton to argue she deserves the nomination
because she has won more crucial swing states than Obama —
a talking point the senator’s campaign has long argued. |
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Growing number of Americans
say country ready for black president -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- WASHINGTON (CNN) — A new poll suggests that the number of Americans who believe the country is ready for a black president is on the rise. Seventy-six percent of those polled in a CNN/Essence Magazine/Opinion Research Corporation poll released Thursday say that the country is ready. That’s up 14 points from December 2006, at the start of the presidential campaign. “Some of the increase in the number of Americans who say the country is ready for a black president is a simple recognition of Barack Obama’s success in the Democratic primaries,” said Keating Holland, CNN’s polling director. “We’re not asking this question in a vacuum. In many cases, respondents must have had Obama in mind when giving their answer, even though he is not mentioned anywhere in the questionnaire.” –CNN Deputy Political Director Paul
Steinhauser |
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Former President Carter hints
he’s supporting Obama -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (CNN) — Former President Jimmy Carter all but said Wednesday he plans to cast his superdelegate vote for Barack Obama. Speaking with a Nigerian paper while in Abuja, Carter noted several reasons why he might be leaning toward the Illinois senator. “Don’t forget that Obama won in my state of Georgia,” Carter said. “My town, which is home to 625 people, is for Obama, my children and their spouses are pro-Obama. My grandchildren are also pro-Obama. As a superdelegate, I would not disclose who I am rooting for but I leave you to make that guess.” The Carter Center confirmed to CNN the
newspaper did quote Carter accurately. |
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Michigan Democrats will not
hold new vote, party says -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- WASHINGTON (CNN) — Michigan Democrats will not to go to the polls again to choose a presidential nominee, even though the national party has refused to recognize the results of their vote in January, the party announced Friday. “We have concluded that it is not practical to conduct such a primary or caucus,” the state party’s executive committee said in a written statement. But they added they will continue to work with the Democratic National Committee and elected officials to ensure that the state is represented at the party convention in Denver this August. Sen. Hillary Clinton was the only major Democratic candidate to appear on the state’s primary ballot in January. She got 55 percent of the vote, but was awarded no delegates because Michigan had scheduled its primary earlier than party rules allowed. Forty percent of the state’s primary voters chose the “uncommitted” option. –From CNN’s Rebecca Sinderbrand |
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Pelosi urges Bush to back
second stimulus package -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- WASHINGTON (CNN) — In the wake of Friday’s gloomy jobs report, Speaker Nancy Pelosi and other House Democratic leaders are calling on President Bush to work with Congress on another economic stimulus package. “Today’s disturbing unemployment numbers, combined with (Fed) Chairman (Ben) Bernanke’s recession warning, and threats to our standard living because of the rising costs of gas, groceries and health care compels the president to work with Congress on a second stimulus package to get our economy back on track, create jobs, and speed assistance to families struggling to make ends meet,” Pelosi said in a written statement. She added, “When congressional leaders meet with the president next week, I will urge him to refocus his attention on America’s economy and to again work in a bipartisan manner on a new stimulus package. We need to work together to restore consumer and market confidence, to assist millions of Americans threatened with the loss of their homes, and to help families meet the rising costs of necessities.” –From CNN Congressional Producer Deirdre
Walsh |
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Democratic candidates tout
economic justice on anniversary of King’s death -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- WASHINGTON (CNN) — Sen. Barack Obama and Sen. Hillary Clinton, rivals for the Democratic presidential nomination, focused on economic justice in speeches Friday marking the 40th anniversary of Martin Luther King’s assassination. Obama, speaking in Fort Wayne, Indiana, said, “Dr. King understood that the struggle for economic justice and the struggle for racial justice were really one — that each was part of a larger struggle ‘for freedom, for dignity, and for humanity.’” Clinton, speaking in Memphis, said, “I
believe we should appoint a Cabinet-level position that will
be solely and fully devoted to ending poverty as we know it in
America, a position that will focus our attention on the issue
in this nation and never let it go.” |
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80,000 U.S. jobs lost in March -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- NEW YORK (CNNMoney.com) — U.S. employers slashed jobs for the third straight month in March, the Labor Department said, and unemployment rose to a nearly three-year high, offering the latest signs that the economy has fallen into a recession. The department’s much anticipated report, released Friday, showed a net loss of 80,000 jobs last month. That marks the third straight month that jobs have fallen — the longest period of decline since early 2003. Economists surveyed by Briefing.com had forecast that payrolls would fall by 50,000 in the latest reading. The new report also pegged job losses in January and February at 76,000 each month. Those revisions added an additional 67,000 job losses to previous readings. The Labor Department now estimates that the economy has shed 232,000 jobs in the first three months of this year. –By CNNMoney.com’s Chris Isidore |
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Obama downplays race in speech
honoring King -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- WASHINGTON (CNN) — Sen. Barack Obama urged Americans to continue to fight for economic justice in a speech Friday marking the anniversary of Martin Luther King’s assassination. Obama, the Illinois senator who hopes to become the first black president, downplayed race in his speech in Fort Wayne, Indiana. “Dr. King understood that the struggle for economic justice and the struggle for racial justice were really one — that each was part of a larger struggle ‘for freedom, for dignity, and for humanity,’” Obama said. Obama is the only major White House contender
not in Memphis on the anniversary of King’s death in that
city. Hillary Clinton, the New York senator who is his rival
for the Democratic nomination, is scheduled to speak at an event
honoring King at Mason Temple Church of God and Christ. Sen.
John McCain, the presumptive Republican nominee, spoke in Memphis
to a meeting of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference,
a civil rights organization closely associated with King. |
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Iraqi official: Blackwater
staying on 'is bad news' -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://www.cnn.com/2008/WORLD/meast/04/05/iraq.blackwater/index.html
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Democrats blast Iraq policy
ahead of Petraeus report -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- WASHINGTON (CNN) — Top congressional Democrats warned President Bush on Friday that he must change his Iraq war strategy “to repair the great damage done to our nation’s security.” In a letter, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid and other top Democrats told the president, “We are deeply concerned that you and the congressional Republican leadership are intent on staying the current course throughout your administration and then handing the war off to future presidents.” The letter was sent days before Gen. David Petraeus, the commander of multinational forces in Iraq, and Ryan Crocker, the U.S. ambassador to Iraq, are scheduled to testify before two Senate committees on progress in Iraq. –From CNN Congressional Producer Ted
Barrett: |
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C-SPAN Daily Alert -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- C-SPAN Highlights Tonight: Tomorrow: Tonight: Tomorrow: ********************************************************************** Tonight: Tomorrow: Tonight: Tomorrow: * RWH: Sen. Kennedy & Chelsea Clinton
and Sen. McCain - Sun. on C-SPAN at 6:30pm ET * Newspaper Articles * With a little more than two weeks to finish the farm bill, lawmakers were still at odds Thursday over a financing package for the measure....- Full Story at www.c-span.org/capitolspotlight/ * When was a U.S. senator from New Jersey
last defeated for re-election in a primary? - Answer at www.c-span.org/capitolspotlight/
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I want to tell you about one
of the most exciting projects of this campaign. It's called the
Obama Organizing Fellowship. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- When I was a young man, I was inspired by the Civil Rights Movement and the idea of people working at a grassroots level to bring about change. I got my chance on the South Side of Chicago, as a community organizer, and it was the transformative experience of my career. It allowed me to put my values to work and to see that real change comes not from the top-down, but from the bottom-up, when ordinary people come together around a common purpose. The experience changed the course of my life -- and I want to share that kind of opportunity with you. That's why we're introducing a program that's going to train a new generation of leaders -- not only to help us win this election, but to help strengthen our democracy in communities across the country. If you apply and are selected, you'll be trained in the basic organizing principles that this campaign and our movement for change are built on. You will be assigned to a community where you'll organize supporters. Assignments will begin in June, and you'll be required to work a minimum of six weeks over the summer. This program is designed to give you real world organizing experience that will have a concrete impact on this election. Apply to be an Obama Organizing Fellow and put progressive values to work in the real world: http://my.barackobama.com/fellows If you can't take the time away from work or your family that's required for the fellowship program, you can still get involved. * Reach out to someone you know who may be
interested in this program, and let them know we could use their
help: House an Organizing Fellow -- If you have
a spare room, you can help by offering housing to an Organizing
Fellow near their training or near their eventual assignment.
We haven't set locations for all of the trainings and assignments,
but if you sign up, our staff will be in touch as the campaign
grows: Support this program by making a donation
to this campaign: Being a community organizer wasn't easy, but it was the most valuable education I ever received. It taught me that together, ordinary people can do extraordinary things. Organizing changed my life, and I hope it changes yours. Thanks, Barack Obama |
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Today is the 40th anniversary
of the tragic assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Students at a high school in the Bronx, who had no real interest in their government, have found new hope. They were surprised by their own excitement and engagement, but to me, they embody so many reasons why Barack and I decided to get into this campaign. It's truly moving to see young people inspired by a political leader -- someone who gives them hope and reminds them that they can be anything they want to be if they work hard. Watch what these kids have to say about politics and race in this country: Video: Yes, they can http://my.barackobama.com/yestheycan Much has changed in this country since Dr. King's death, and thanks to his life and work we have taken critical strides towards racial equality. The simple fact that Barack is running a competitive campaign for President is a direct result of Dr. King's legacy -- and this movement for change would be impossible without the support of people of all races, ages, and backgrounds. I remember back in December of 2006, a group of us were discussing the possibility of Barack running for President. And as you might have read, I was hesitant about the idea. But then Barack started talking about why he really wanted to do this -- to bring people together and to change the tone of the way we talk to each other in this country. He talked about the need for people to be inspired by their leaders, and the importance of leadership to chart a different course. He talked about Dr. King and Bobby Kennedy, and their passion to challenge a new generation and provide them with role models. Barack promised that as a candidate and as President he would do everything he could to bring new people to the table. He shared his desire to reach out to our neglected inner cities, to strive to be a role model for young people, and to connect with people who are not involved in politics -- those who feel their voices haven't been heard, those who have been left behind, and those who have been turned off by all the petty bickering in recent years. We can change that, by standing on the shoulders of folks like Dr. King who came before us. Watching these students who are excited
about their own role in politics for the first time, and watching
Barack as he strives to live up to the challenges Dr. King made
possible, I am truly touched. http://my.barackobama.com/yestheycan Thank you, Michelle Obama |
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Elections get plundered -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://www.dailytarheel.com/home/news/20....d-3303426.shtml
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Disappointing March Jobs Report -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- “There’s no question that the economy President Bush will hand off to his successor in January will be worse than the economy he inherited. This President’s economic program – exemplified by today’s very disappointing jobs report – is just further evidence that his policies are failing Americans. Even more disconcerting is the fact that Senator John McCain, the Republican Presidential nominee, says he doesn’t really understand the economy and simply promises more of the same. “Democrats are focused on the issues that concern Americans. We are working to address the housing crisis, as well as other economic issues that this Administration has ignored for seven years. Under their watch, household income is down, gas prices have more than doubled, and foreclosure rates and the number of Americans receiving food stamps have both hit record highs. Throughout this year, Democrats will continue to examine responsible policy options to turn this economy around.”
### |
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MESSAGE FROM THE MAJORITY
LEADER -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- This week, the House passed the Tom Lantos and Henry J. Hyde Global Leadership Against HIV/AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria Reauthorization Act. Our nation has both a moral obligation and a national security interest in combating the spread of these diseases. This bill recommits the United States to the fight to eradicate HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, and malaria. Democrats are also acutely focused on the economic issues Americans are rightly concerned about. Under the Bush Administration, household incomes have dropped, gas prices have more than doubled, college costs are up by more than a third, foreclosures have hit a record high, and we have now had three straight months of job losses. Democrats are working to address these issues that have been ignored by the Administration for seven years. Legislation to address the housing crisis is being developed, and I hope to bring it the the House Floor soon. Next week, our attention will shift to Iraq as General David Petraeus and Ambassador Ryan Crocker come to the Hill to provide a report on the situation there. I hope they will provide answers to some pressing questions: Why is political progress - the stated goal of the surge - not being made in Iraq? Why do security gains seem to be solely dependent on the cooperation of Moqtada al-Sadr? Why should we allow the readiness of our military to degrade to its lowest point in years? The facts on the ground show that Iraq is not making necessary progress. It is time for the Iraqi government to take responsibility for the security and stability of its own nation.
Sincerely yours, |
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C-SPAN Weekend Alert -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- C-SPAN Highlights Friday: Saturday: Sunday: Monday: ********************************************************************** Friday: Saturday: Monday: ********************************************************************** Friday: Saturday: Sunday: Monday: Saturday: Sunday: Monday: * RWH: Chelsea Clinton, Sen. Kennedy &
Sen. McCain's Tour - Sun. on C-SPAN at 6:30pm ET Saturday: Sunday: Monday: * The Senate on Friday began debating whether to add a long-stalled extension of renewable energy tax credits to its bipartisan housing package, a move that could threaten the bill’s... - Full Story at www.c-span.org/capitolspotlight/ * How many people have voted in every November
Pennsylvania election for the past 50 years? - Answer at www.c-span.org/capitolspotlight/
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House will meet at 12:30 p.m.
for morning hour debate -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FRIDAY, APRIL 4, 2008
First Vote of the Week…
Last Vote Predicted…
Tuesday 6:30 p.m.
Legislative Program - 51600 | Floor Information - 57400 | Whip Information - 63210 MONDAY, APRIL 7, 2008 The House is not in Session.
TUESDAY, APRIL 8, 2008 The House will meet at 12:30 p.m. for morning hour debate and 2:00 p.m. for legislative business. Votes will be postponed until 6:30 p.m.
Suspensions (11 Bills): 1) H.Res. 265 - Honoring military children
during "National Month of the Military Child". (Rep.
Moran (VA) – Armed Services) 2) H.J.Res. 70 - Congratulating the Army
Reserve on its centennial, which will be formally celebrated
on April 23, 2008, and commemorating the historic contributions
of its veterans and continuing contributions of its soldiers
to the vital national security interests and homeland defense
missions of the United States (Rep. Bishop (GA) – Armed
Services) 3) H.Res. 1020 - Recognizing the tremendous
service that members of the Armed Forces have given to the Nation,
especially those who have been wounded in combat (Rep. Welch
– Armed Services) 4) H.R. 1198 - The Early Hearing Detection
and Intervention Act of 2008 (Rep. Capps - Energy and Commerce) 5) H.R. 2464 - The Wakefield Act (Rep.
Matheson - Energy and Commerce) 6) H.R. 1237 - The Cytology Proficiency
Improvement Act of 2007 (Rep. Gordon - Energy and Commerce) 7) S. 845 - The Safety of Seniors Act of
2008 (Sen. Enzi/Rep. Pallone- Energy and Commerce) 8) H.R. 2063 - The Food Allergy and Anaphylaxis
Management Act of 2008 (Rep. Lowey - Energy and Commerce) 9) S. 1858 - The Newborn Screening Saves
Lives Act of 2008 (Sen. Dodd/Rep. Royball-Allard - Energy and
Commerce) 10) S. 793 - The Traumatic Brain Injury
Act of 2008 (Sen. Hatch/Rep. Pascrell - Energy and Commerce) 11) H.Res. 1077 - Calling on the Government
of the People's Republic of China to end its crackdown in Tibet
and enter into a substantive dialogue with His Holiness the Dalai
Lama to find a negotiated solution that respects the distinctive
language, culture, religious identity, and fundamental freedoms
of all Tibetans, and for other on Tibet (Rep. Pelosi – Foreign
Affairs)
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 9, 2008 AND THE BALANCE OF THE WEEK On Wednesday and Thursday, the House will meet at 10:00 a.m. for legislative business. On Friday, no votes are expected in the House.
Suspensions (7 Bills): 1) H.Res. 838 - Welcoming His Holiness
Pope Benedict XVI on his first apostolic visit to the United
States as Amended (Rep. McCotter – Foreign Affairs) 2) H.Res. 865 - Expressing the sense of
the House of Representatives that the March 2007 report of the
United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime and the International
Bank for Reconstruction and Development makes an important contribution
to the understanding of the high levels of crime and violence
in the Caribbean, and that the United States should work with
Caribbean countries to address crime and violence in the region
(Rep. Clarke - Foreign Affairs) 3) H.R. 5489 - To designate the facility
of the United States Postal Service located at 6892 Main Street
in Gloucester, Virginia, as the "Congresswoman Jo Ann S.
Davis Post Office". (Rep. Wittman - Oversight and Government
Reform) 4) H.R. 5472 - To designate the facility
of the United States Postal Service located at 2650 Dr. Martin
Luther King Jr. Street, Indianapolis, Indiana, as the "Julia
M. Carson Post Office Building". (Rep. Visclosky - Oversight
and Government Reform) 5) H.R. 5395 - To designate the facility
of the United States Postal Service located at 11001 Dunklin
Drive in St. Louis, Missouri, as the "William 'Bill"
Clay Post Office Building'. (Rep. Carnahan - Oversight and Government
Reform) 6) H.Res. 1038 - Recognizing the fifth
anniversary of the Department of Homeland Security and honoring
the Department's employees for their extraordinary efforts and
contributions to protect and secure our Nation (Rep. Thompson
(MS) – Homeland) 7) H. Res. ___ - Recognizing the plumbing industry and supporting the goals and ideas of “National Plumbing Industry Week” (Rep. Velazquez – Small Business)
H.R. 2016 - The National Landscape Conservation
System Act (Rep. Grijalva – Natural Resources) (Subject
to a Rule)
H.R. 2537 - Beach Protection Act of 2007
(Rep. Pallone – Transportation and Infrastructure) (Subject
to a Rule)
* Conference Reports may be brought up at any time. * Motions to go to Conference should they become available. * Possible Motions to Instruct Conferees.
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Democratic caucus Sunday at
library -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://www.chippewa.com/articles/2008/04/05/news/732n.txt
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Clinton backers caucus at
NSCC; Obama supporters in Topsfield -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://www.wickedlocal.com/saugus/town_info/government/x1564574405
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Obama wins 11 of 14 delegates
in Cherokee County caucus -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://www.jacksonvilleprogress.com/local/local_story_094182614.html
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Obama's support among Democrats
softens: poll -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://www.reuters.com/article/politicsNews/idUSN3143245420080404
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Democrats shift strategy on
Iraq debate -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://www.boston.com/news/nation/washin...._on_iraq_debate
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Top Democrats demand Attorney
General provide 9/11 memorandum -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://svnlsenetter.wordpress.com/2008/0....911-memorandum/
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Poll Shows Clinton, Obama
Tied Among Democrats Nationally -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://feeds.foxnews.com/~r/foxnews/elections/~3/264043830/
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Democrats to Bush: Change
on Iraq -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://weblogs.chicagotribune.com/news/p....ange_on_ir.html |
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Democrats slam 'Bush-McCain'
economics after jobs -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://afp.google.com/article/ALeqM5ifSoOz-fymxEsBlVIGH8Bb5iOmYw
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Obama, Clinton Positions on
Firearms - In their own words -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://bluesteeldemocrats.blogspot.com/2....irearms-in.html
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Democrats call for more action
to boost the economy -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://www.kgan.com/template/inews_wire/.....kgan.com.shtml
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Right now, you can help build
a base of support for Barack in Indiana and bring more voices
into the political process. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- To participate in Indiana's primary, voters must be registered by this Monday, April 7th. Tens of thousands of Obama supporters may not be registered yet, and we need to act quickly to reach out to as many of them as possible. Each call you make could be another vote for Barack in an area where we need your help the most. Use our online phonebanking tool, and start calling Indiana supporters now: http://my.barackobama.com/call Registering voters is more than just an important part of our campaign strategy -- it's what our movement is all about. From the beginning, Barack has set out to bring more people and more voices into the political process. And if we can reach more people in Indiana, we can make a lasting impact and win victories for the Democratic Party up and down the ballot in November. All across the country, volunteers will be making calls into Indiana to tell potential supporters about the deadline and encourage them to register. No previous experience is necessary. All you need is a hunger for change and a willingness to turn your enthusiasm into action. Our team has put together a list of the most important calls you can make into Indiana right now: http://my.barackobama.com/call Here's how it works: 1. Log into My.BarackObama.com and get a list
of 20 names that only you will receive. (If you don't have a
My.BarackObama account, creating one is fast and easy.) Click on a name, and you'll be led through
a simple script, question by question. Start making calls. Personal contact is the best way to grow this movement, and you can make these connections right from your own home. It's easy -- start by making five calls, and I know you'll want to make five more: http://my.barackobama.com/call Thank you for making this happen, David David Plouffe |
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Al-Maliki: Muqtada al-Sadr
must disband his army -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- BAGHDAD, Iraq (CNN) — Iraqi Prime
Minister Nuri al-Maliki demanded The prime minister praised his military
for the recent violent clashes Al-Maliki also said he has received a decision
from political leaders to |
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Survey: Gas prices surge 5
cents to new record -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (CNN) — U.S. Gas prices jumped more than 5 cents in the past two weeks, reaching an all-time inflation-adjusted record of $3.32 per gallon of self-serve regular, a national survey said Sunday. Publisher Trilby Lundberg said the average price beats the previous, all-time record high of $3.26 per gallon set by the last survey, released on March 21. She blamed the increased prices on higher crude oil and ethanol prices at a time of weak gasoline demand. The Lundberg Survey, carried out April
4, tallied prices at about 5,000 gas stations for the past two
weeks. |
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Democrats' Dean Urges Superdelegates
to Pick a Nominee Soon -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://news.google.com/news/url?sa=t&ct=....qrMwj2PUVQM2T
A |
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Democrats Will Be Unified
Behind Eventual Nominee, Obama Says -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://news.google.com/news/url?sa=t&ct=....Oi_XSEBa8_v
chA |
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Presidential Candidates Will
Question Petraeus on Iraq War -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://www.shortnews.com/start.cfm?id=69796
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Presidential Candidates Honor
ML King Jr. on Anniversary -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://www.efluxmedia.com/news_President....sary_16000.html
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Presidential Candidates Respond
To Weak Jobs Report -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://www.rttnews.com/FOREX/politicalnews.asp?date=04/04/2008&item=6
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Democrats Call for New Iraq
Strategy -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://www.plenglish.com/article.asp?ID=....A8A92458B12E%7D)&language=EN
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Time for Democrats to Come
Together -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://newsmanbook.com/?p=511
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Democrats Push For New Aid
Package Following Job Losses -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2008/04/05/democrats-call-for-new-ai_n_95224.html
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Montana Democrats say Obama-Hillary
speeches to be televised -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://www.montanasnewsstation.com/Global/story.asp?S=8123541&nav=menu227_7
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Democrats Start New PR Campaign
Ahead of Iraq Report -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://likeiwassayin.wordpress.com/2008/....of-iraq-report/
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Senior Democrats mull Al Gore's
nomination. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://dexpectations.blogspot.com/2008/04/senior-democrats-mull-al-gores.html
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Clinton, McCain and Obama
will confront top Iraq war strategists -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://www.kansascity.com/news/politics/story/564258.html
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Hillary, Obama and McCain
Will Be in the Senate for Iraq Hearings -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://www.talkleft.com/story/2008/4/7/33425/73306
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Obama, Clinton rally Montana
Democrats with speech in Butte -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://www.montanasnewsstation.com/Global/story.asp?S=8124993&nav=menu227_7
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Democrats' Dean Urges Superdelegates
to Pick a Nominee Soon -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pid=20601103&sid=aw8asHo.aZCI&refer=us
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Obama: the Democrats in person -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://mondediplo.com/2008/04/04obama
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Democrats Prepare For National
Convention -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://www.wisn.com/news/15808591/detail.html
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Local Democrats appreciate
Clinton's determination -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://www.montanasnewsstation.com/Global/story.asp?S=8126521
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Democrats: More Economic Help
Needed -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://ap.google.com/article/ALeqM5jivaqTOtmcpsNPOqIHy_MRhzWQwgD8VSKQ6G0
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Clinton's top strategist steps
aside -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- * Story Highlights * Read Decrease font Decrease font WASHINGTON (CNN) -- Sen. Hillary Clinton's chief presidential campaign strategist is quitting his post amid criticism of his public relations firm's contacts with the Colombian government over a pending free-trade deal, Clinton's campaign announced. read at source> http://www.cnn.com/2008/POLITICS/04/07/clinton.campaign/index.html
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Democrat: Report on Iraq 'too
rosy' -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- * Story Highlights * Read Decrease font Decrease font WASHINGTON (CNN) -- Senior Democratic senators challenged a new intelligence report's assessment of President Bush's "surge" strategy Friday, saying the troop increase in Iraq has failed to achieve its strategic goals. read at source> http://www.cnn.com/2008/POLITICS/04/04/nie.iraq/index.html
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Week in Review by Zach Ragbourn
(2008-04-04 17:30 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Colorado: During his time in Congress, Republican Bob Schaffer thinks he was more effective for Ukraine than he was for Colorado. The DSCC launched a new video this week, highlighting Schaffer’s misplaced priorities. Georgia: Since announcing his candidacy a mere two weeks ago, former State Rep. Jim Martin (D) has raised a truly impressive $350,000 in his campaign to unseat Republican Saxby Chambliss. Kentucky: Democrat Bruce Lunsford received the endorsement of former candidate Andrew Horne (D) this week. Horne, a retired Marine officer, will advise Lunsford on military issues. Louisiana: Check out the new Road To Victory video, focusing on Senator Mary Landrieu’s (D) help in rebuilding the Gulf Coast after Hurricanes Katrina and Rita. Senator Landrieu also released her latest video diary, which you can watch here. Maine: Republican Susan Collins tried to make an issue of her unbroken streak of Senate votes, forgetting that how a Senator votes is often more important than how often she votes. We reminded her of some votes Mainers probably wish she hadn’t cast. Minnesota: Democrat Al Franken picked up more endorsements from labor organizations this week, as the Minnesota Nurses Association, the Union of Laborers District Council MN & ND, AFSCME Council 65, and the Minnesota Industrial Union Council all announced their support for his campaign. New Jersey: Senator Frank Lautenberg (D) officially launched his bid for re-election, with the support of leaders from all across New Jersey, including Senator Bob Menendez, Governor Jon Corzine, and Congressmen Pallone, Payne, Pascrell, Rothman, Holt, and Sires. New Hampshire: The Concord Monitor ran a column by former Governor Jeanne Shaheen (D) addressing the need for better health and education benefits for veterans returning from Iraq and Afghanistan. Shaheen supports passing a new G.I. bill to provide better opportunities for veterans. North Carolina: State Senator Kay Hagan (D) took part in a question-and-answer session at the popular political blog BlueNC. Hagan fielded questions on a wide range of topics, from earmark transparency to poverty. Oklahoma: State Senator Andrew Rice (D) gave his support to the “Bake Sale for Body Armor,” a fundraising drive that will help pay for body armor for troops in Iraq and Afghanistan. Rice challenged his opponent, Republican Jim Inhofe, to do the same. No word yet on whether Inhofe intends to open his checkbook to help with this life-saving program. Oregon: Oregon Speaker of the House Jeff
Merkley (D) recently celebrated a new law that has driven predatory
lenders out of Oregon. Merkley took questions on the law and
on his campaign in a diary at Daily Kos. |
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Chairman Van Hollen’s
Statement on Don Cazayoux’s Primary Runoff Win in Louisiana’s
6th District -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Posted by Brandon English DCCC Chair Chris Van Hollen: Congratulations to Don Cazayoux on his victory. Don is a strong, independent leader who shares the values and priorities of middle class families in Louisiana’s 6th District. He is a tenacious fighter to create jobs, improve education, and provide health care to Louisiana's children. Don would be a tremendous asset to our fight for change in Washington. The LA-06 Special General election is on
May 3, 2008. |
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Unemployment Soars Under Bush
Republicans’ Economic Agenda -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Posted by Brandon English Today's news that America lost 80,000 jobs in March -- the third month in a row of American job losses -- is a sobering reminder of Republicans'; long history of refusing to help people who lose their jobs. After years of loyalty to the failed economic agenda of George Bush, Congressional Republicans are embracing more of the same with Senator John McCain. You know -- the guy who said himself that he doesn't know much about the economy. With 81 percent of the country believing "things have pretty seriously gotten off on the wrong track," and 78 percent thinking that the country is worse off today than it was five years ago, why do Republicans think voters want more of the same failed economic policies? U.S. Economy Shed 80,000 Jobs in March
[NY Times] |
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DCCC Statement on the 40th
Anniversary of the King Assassination -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Posted by Brandon English DCCC Chairman Chris Van Hollen released the following statement on the 40th Anniversary of the assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.: Today, as our nation observes the 40th anniversary of the assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., we honor his lifelong commitment to civil rights, equal justice, and economic empowerment. Dr. King's dream was that every American would be judged on the content of their character and opportunity would exist for everyone regardless of race, ethnicity, or gender. Thanks to Dr. King's leadership, America has made important strides in the last 40 years. Unfortunately, too many Americans still are losing their jobs, losing their health care, and unable to send their kids to college. The best way we can honor his memory is
by redoubling our efforts to give every American a shot to live
the American dream. |
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Brian Wolff: 75 Races in Play -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Posted by Brandon English DCCC Executive Director Brian Wolff posted the following on the Huffington Post blog: As anyone who works in politics knows, this is a non-stop business. One thing I've learned, though, is sometimes you've got to take a second to step back -- if only to assess your current position and future opportunities. Right now is one of those moments for us at the DCCC and for our Democratic Congressional candidates. Monday marked the end of the 2008 first quarter fundraising period -- the first chance to show our strength since the Republicans minted John "In Iraq Indefinitely" McCain as their nominee. The numbers are still trickling in but the early returns are clear: our Democratic candidates have built powerful grassroots armies of supporters who are giving in unprecedented numbers. Clearly, our candidates have been able to capitalize on the excitement of this "big change" election year to bring new supporters into the political process. I am especially appreciative of the critical role local and national blogs have played in introducing our candidates to new audiences. We are now slated to have at least 75 races in play -- a more than 50% increase from 2006. We still have a huge challenge in front of us. Our Republican counterparts are "very excited" by right wing "swift boat" groups like Freedom's Watch that are pledging to pour more than $200 million into tearing down our nominees with dishonest attacks. Their chairman even admitted that they "hope we see them in political races all across the board." However, as Bill Foster proved by winning former Speaker Dennis Hastert's seat, we know we can run and win in districts nationwide by focusing on a message of change. You can see our full 2008 targets map here. On behalf of Speaker Pelosi, Chairman Van Hollen and the Democratic Leadership, I also want to share with you our Battleground Brief to keep you informed of our progress at the DCCC and recent news on our House Democrats and 2008 House Candidates. Now I've got to get back to work. |
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Roll Call: Shays’ Seat
Main Connecticut Battleground -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Posted by Brandon English BANTAM, Conn. -- During the 2006 midterm elections, Connecticut was one of the most fiercely contested states in the battle for the House, with three of its five seats in the Democratic cross hairs. But now -- 16 months after Democrats Joe Courtney and Christopher Murphy ousted then-GOP Reps. Rob Simmons and Nancy Johnson and GOP Rep. Christopher Shays held off a stiff challenge for the second consecutive cycle -- the Nutmeg State has lost much of its luster as a campaign hot spot for 2008. The biggest target remains Shays, who faces a new challenger, Jim Himes -- an investment banker, leader of an affordable-housing nonprofit and Greenwich Democratic Town Committee chairman. Himes has racked up an impressive fundraising record, even outraising Shays for one quarter last year. However, the two seats that Republicans
lost now look more like stretches for the GOP. Two former state
legislators are vying for the right to take on Murphy, but he's
easily outraised them, and the prospect of a September GOP primary
undercuts the party's chances of scoring an upset. And while
Courtney ousted Simmons by a mere 82 votes -- the nation's closest
House race in 2006 -- even Republicans acknowledge that challenger
Sean Sullivan has not lived up to their initial hopes and is
currently a dark horse. |
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PA-10: Barletta A Hypocrite
on Illegal Immigration -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Posted by Brandon English DCCC Press: Hazleton Mayor Lou Barletta's much touted proposal on illegal immigration would fine and close down the business of fellow Republican congressional candidates Dan Meuser and Chris Hackett for their hiring of illegal immigrants. Meuser and Hackett are vying for the 10th District nomination for U.S. Congress in the April 22 Pennsylvania Republican primary. Barletta publicly endorsed Meuser for the Republican nomination in January, 2008, despite Meuser having a business record of hiring illegal immigrants and paying a record high negotiated fine of $23,000 for breaking federal illegal immigration laws. Barletta stated in an interview with NPR last year [NPR, 7/16/07] that his illegal immigration plan "…punishes businesses and suspends the business license of businesses that knowingly hire illegal aliens, unlawful workers." * Barletta's endorsed candidate, Dan Meuser,
has already been fined $41,000 by the U.S. Department of Justice
and later reached a settlement of $23,000 for his family owned
business (Pride Mobility, Inc.) hired illegal immigrants. The
penalty against Meuser is one of the largest fines in Pennsylvania
state history for illegal immigrant hiring (www.cis.gov) Barletta refuses to rescind his endorsement of Meuser despite Meuser's contrary position on immigration and serious flouting of illegal immigration laws and his payment of major fines in violation of federal statutes. Barletta has also failed to make any public statement on either Meuser or Hackett's breach of the law or actions in violation of his own repeated prouncements on the illegal immigration problem. Barletta has based his campaign exclusively on an illegal immigration platform. "Where are you, Lou? You're always so quick to talk about immigration and your Silence is now deafening. If you really had the 'courage of your convictions' as you are constantly stating, you would rescind your endorsement of Dan Meuser, condemn Chris Hackett, and reject their breach of your own illegal immigration stand," said Carrie James, Northeast Regional Press Secretary at the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee. James continued: "Lou Barletta is
fast gaining a reputation as a grandstanding hypocrite who speaks
double-talk and is using illegal immigration as an issue when
it suits his needs for self-promotion. Clearly, it's empty rhetoric."
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FL-25: Garcia’s Online
Supporters Help Shatter Fun -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Posted by Brandon English That trio of South Florida Republicans who've been able to skate by underfunded Democratic challengers in the past is getting a rude awakening. In FL-25, Democrat Joe Garcia has received an unprecedented amount of contributions from his grassroots supporters in the first quarter of his campaign. Joe Garcia, a Miami-Dade Democrat running for Congress, said Tuesday he has raised more than $320,000 -- much of it from online contributions -- in his bid to oust U.S. Rep. Mario Diaz-Balart. Garcia, who said he began raising money halfway through the three-month fundraising quarter that ended Monday night, said the contributions were from nearly 2,000 donors. "There's an appeal out there, people are willing to commit and show interest in the campaign," Garcia said. "People want their problems solved." [...] |
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Thank Republicans for $3.29
a Gallon -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Posted by Brandon English This week, the Department of Energy announced that prices at the gas pump reached a nine month high. Yet, when given a chance to do something about America's dependence on foreign oil, House Republicans voted to give huge tax breaks and increase taxpayer subsidies to Big Oil [HR 6, Vote #445, 7/28/05]. Remember, these are the same oil companies that are making record profits. Apparently Republicans are more concerned with giving away taxpayer dollars to the Oil Companies than helping out hardworking middle class families who are struggling to make ends meet. Just something to think about next time
you have to empty your wallet just to fill up your tank. |
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We’ve Got the “Big
Mo” In Missouri -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Posted by Brandon English Dems Looking for Missouri House Seat Takeovers [CQ]: Democrats in Missouri are waging highly competitive bids for two Republican districts that they hadn’t seriously targeted in many years, a development confirmed Tuesday by candidates filing to qualify for the Aug. 5 primary election. Historically, these have been tough districts for Democrats to play in but voters are clearly tired of the Bush era and ready for big change. Missouri’s 6th District (MO-06): One of the two marquee House races will be in the 6th District, which takes in the rural northwest corner of the state as well as part of Kansas City and some of its suburbs. Four-term Republican Rep. Sam Graves has not faced a close race since his initial election in 2000, but this year has drawn an opponent in Democrat Kay Barnes, the former mayor of Kansas City, who projects to be his toughest challenger yet. Popular Kansas City Mayor Kay Barnes was selected by the DCCC as a Red-to-Blue Candidate for Change for her strong campaign against a reliable Bush rubberstamp. We’ve also got a prime opportunity in Missouri’s 9th District (MO-09): The other close race should play out in
the 9th District, which takes in northeastern Missouri and the
city of Columbia. Six-term Republican Rep. Kenny Hulshof ’s
decision to run for governor rather than seek re-election to
his House seat has spawned crowded candidate fields in both parties.
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Paul Begala: “John McCain” -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Posted by Brandon English Paul Begala sent the following message to DCCC supporters: Friend: Wanted to get your attention quickly. Midnight tonight is the first FEC deadline since Republicans have minted John 'In Iraq Indefinitely' McCain as their candidate. With GOP attack groups stockpiling money and preparing no-holds-barred assaults on our candidates, the DCCC is swinging into action to show their strength. Our goal: to raise $5 million to support Democratic House candidates before we hit the critical March 31st deadline. We have just $55,000 left to reach our goal before the deadline at midnight tonight. Can you help us by making a gift at www.dccc.org/march? Let's win, |
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Speaker Pelosi: The one thing
we can’t afford -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Posted by Brandon English Dear Friend, Here's what you and I can't let happen. We can't allow the tension and pressures of a spirited Presidential contest to spill over and harm hard-working Democratic candidates running to strengthen our Democratic majority in the House. I will do whatever it takes to protect our candidates and make sure their campaigns to drive change forward don't skip a beat. I need you to do the same. Please support our candidates now with a donation to the DCCC before the critical March 31st deadline hits by going to www.dccc.org/deadline. Throughout the Presidential nominating process, I have been so proud to watch Democrats turn out in record numbers and demonstrate enormous grassroots energy. And soon we will have an exciting presidential nominee who will make our entire party proud. She or he will lead our energized and united Democratic Party in the larger fight against John McCain, and his plan for 100 more years of war in Iraq. Now is the time to capitalize on the excitement that is sweeping the nation to ensure that our next President has a strong Democratic majority in the House to work with as we undo the damage from President Bush's failed economic policies. Nancy Pelosi |
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Evans-Novak: NY-25 and NY-26
“Leaning Democratic Takeover" -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Posted by Brandon English The Evans-Novak Political Report rated NY-25 (Reynolds-open) and NY-26 (Walsh-open) as "leaning democratic takeover" citing strong Democratic candidates and Republican recruitment failures. New York-25: The matchup appears set in the race to replace retiring Rep. Jim Walsh (R), and it still looks like a Democratic takeover in this Syracuse-based district. Former Capitol Hill staffer Dan Maffei (D) barely lost to Walsh in 2006, and he is the Democratic standard-bearer right now. Maffei has strong liberal backing and is a skilled campaigner who now has experience. Currently, he is unopposed for the Democratic nomination. The only Republican in the race right now is former state fair director Peter Cappuccilli (R). Cappuccilli is inexperienced, and there are murmurs that the National Republican Congressional Committee is giving up on this district to focus on stopping losses elsewhere. Although held by a Republican in recent years, this is really a Democratic district. A third of the population lives in Syracuse, which is a Democratic town. Walsh benefitted from his family connections -- his father was Syracuse mayor and a congressman -- but still, in his narrow '06 win over Maffei, Walsh lost the city and won on the strength of the rural vote, which has benefitted from his pork-barrel spending. In short, any Republican but Walsh would be hard-pressed to win this district, and Maffei is a strong candidate. Maffei is a favorite now, and by the fall, he could be a shoo-in. Leaning Democratic Takeover. New York-26: Rep. Tom Reynolds (R), perhaps facing electoral defeat, will retire this year after an ignominious stint as chairman of the National Republican Congressional Committee. Fittingly, he looks to be leaving his district to the Democrats. Reynolds' district in Western New York voted for Bush in 2004, but Reynolds barely held on in 2006 after revelations about his handling of the Mark Foley scandal. Democrats have two strong potential candidates: wealthy businessman and two-time candidate Jack Davis, and Iraq War veteran Jon Powers, who was already engaged in a challenge to Reynolds. Davis could fund his own race, and Powers has backing among liberal bloggers who showed real success raising funds in 2006. Republicans failed to get their top candidate,
State Sen. George Maziarz. State Assemblyman Jim Hayes is currently
the leading Republican. Republicans have an enrollment edge here,
but the sagging economy and the Democratic cash advantage tilt
this one towards the Democrats. Leaning Democratic Takeover.
[emphasis mine] |
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Convention 2008! -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Everyone is encouraged to stay for the College Democrats of America Convention (which will have most of its events on Friday, Saturday and Sunday) and for the Democratic National Convention (which begins Monday and ends on Thursday). For those who were at our 2004 CDA Convention which overlapped the Democratic Convention in Boston, this year will be exactly the same. During the Democratic National Convention we will host all sorts of panels, parties, and events. Registration is limited and housing is even more limited. If you have housing options available to you in Denver, secure them now. Know a friends couch you can stay on? Great. Otherwise CDA has dorms that will be available for students from Friday, August 22 to Thursday, August 28th. Prices and registration will be up on on www.collegedems.com shortly. Until then, we've made this fun video: http://www.youtube.com/v/CC6WX_Qc5pU&rel=1 See you in Denver! |
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Blacks Against Immigrants?
Don’t Believe the Conservative Hype -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- By Mark Winston Griffith & Andrea Batista
Schlesinger There’s a corrosive idea currently being spread by the conservative right. Designed to enlist African Americans in a race battle against immigrants by intentionally exploiting current economic anxieties, The Manhattan Institute’s recent publication of “The Rainbow Coalition Evaporates,” by Steven Malanga, argues that black people are fed up with illegal immigrants taking their jobs, committing crime in their neighborhoods, and messing up their schools. Before this toxic narrative seeps further down into the public debate, it’s important to set the record straight on the Manhattan Institute and their opposition to a policy agenda that promotes the best interests of Black, Latino and White communities alike. Like a petty gossip trying to instigate a school yard cat fight, the Manhattan Institute uses the Malanga article to pose as a friend and ally to black folk by whispering warnings about Latino people out to get them. But what’s the skin in the game for them? It certainly isn’t a deep commitment to improving the prospects of the African-American community. The Manhattan Institute is the well oiled think tank based here in New York City that published “The Bell Curve” by Charles Murray, arguing that African-Americans have lower IQ’s. It’s the hatchery of “welfare reform,”, “’compassionate’ conservatism,” the end of open admissions at CUNY, and the “broken windows theory” that formed the basis of Rudy Giuliani’s crime-fighting strategy of aggressive policing of poor communities of color. The Manhattan Institute, like much of the conservative movement, has identified the problem of cities to be the moral deficiency of the dark and poor people who inhabit them. To paraphrase the words of Manhattan Institute “scholar” Heather MacDonald, if the poor had “bourgeoisie values”, they wouldn’t be poor. Malanga’s intentions are consistent with this view. In his article he argues that Latinos have brought violence, in the same way conservatives have depicted African-Africans as criminal animals wreaking havoc in New York City. He interviews one Black parent frustrated with the overwhelming Latino presence in his child’s school, with no ironic or historic sense of the cultural arguments against integration. Malanga concludes that Black people are fed up with their own leadership for opposing “immigrant restrictions” and makes a call to action, suggesting that “Blacks could play a far more decisive role, though, if their political leaders felt threatened enough to pursue tougher immigration policies actively.” And there we have it. Malanga’s article isn’t about improving African-American neighborhoods, schools or prospects – or even immigration policies that could strengthen African-American communities. It’s about enlisting African-Americans in the politics of a racist, draconian position on immigration. Nothing more, nothing less. Malanga tips his hand when he quotes a political scientist as saying that “some Republicans have positions on immigration that would resonate in the black community, but only a few have tried to take advantage of black anger of immigration.” Take advantage is right. The Manhattan Institute and their conservative movement must believe it is in their best interests to devise a political strategy based on black and Latino division, lest they face an America in which all of those on the fringes of our new economy – from African Americans to laid off white workers – demand something better than a sorry agenda of tax cutting for the wealthy and trade policy for the few. Why else would this article hint with glee at the misguided idea that there is no Black-Latino political coalition? Fear mongering is the last gasp of the ideologically bankrupt. Rather than try to hawk an unrealistic policy of mass deportation, or actually devise a way to bring millions of immigrants out of the shadows by providing a road to legal status and employment protection, it’s easier to try to convince socially and economically vulnerable voters that immigrants are looking to take their jobs, victimize them, and overtake their schools. One thing is for sure. The immigration policy status quo isn’t working for anyone, no matter what community you live in. Race-baiting and racial scapegoating won’t change that. The only immigration policy that will allow this nation to move forward is one that squarely addresses the legal status and the working conditions of the 12 million undocumented immigrants who are here, a policy that recognizes that no matter what color you may be, our fates are all inextricably bound.
Mark Winston Griffith is a community economic justice activist, journalist and Senior Fellow in Economic Justice at the Drum Major Institute for Public Policy. From 2005 to 2007, Mr. Griffith served as the co-director of the Neighborhood Economic Development Advocacy Project, a policy and community resource organization that promotes economic justice in low-income neighborhoods and communities of color. Prior to that Mr. Griffith served for twelve years as the founding Executive Director of the Central Brooklyn Partnership, a neighborhood-based organization that builds the capacity of local people to exert political and economic power. While directing the Partnership he also served as the founding Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Central Brooklyn Federal Credit Union, which at the time was the country’s largest Black-owned, community-based financial cooperative. Since 2002, Andrea Batista Schlesinger has applied her background in public policy, politics and communications to lead the effort to turn the Drum Major Institute into a progressive policy institute with national impact. She has doubled DMI's staff, capacity and budget, making it a leading source for progressive ideas. She has been profiled in publications including the New York Times, New Yorker magazine, and Latina Magazine. She has appeared on television shows including CNN's 'Lou Dobbs Tonight' and has been published in publications including The Nation, New York Newsday, The Chicago Sun-Times, The Mississippi Sun Herald, New York Daily News, Alternet, Tom Paine.com, New York Sun, Colorlines Magazine, The Chief-Leader, and City Limits magazine. She serves on the Editorial Board of The Nation, the New York City Traffic Mitigation Congestion Commission, and the boards of the Sadie Nash Leadership Project, WireTap and the Applied Research Center. Chris Rabb on Friday, March 21, 2008 at
01:44 PM |
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The path to "a more perfect
union" -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- By Maya Wiley Presidential hopeful Barack Obama made two critical points in his historic March 18th speech to the nation. He said, “[R]ace is an issue that I believe this nation cannot afford to ignore right now.” He also said, “Most working- and middle-class white Americans do not feel that they have been privileged by their race…[T]hey feel their dreams slipping away; in an era of stagnant wages and global competition, opportunity comes to be seen as a zero sum game, in which your dreams come at my expense.” These two points are critical and related. Here’s why. The White middle and working classes see their dreams slipping away because of policy decisions we have been making in this country since the 1970s. These policy decisions include deregulation, reducing public resources to invest in people and communities, and privatization. And for the most part, these have not operated in a race-neutral way. They have been produced from misconceptions about opportunities for people of color. Our broken systems have hurt first or hardest communities of color, but are also harming Whites. Let us take one case in point – the current mortgage crisis. It effects us all. It is shaking our sense of security and making national prosperity a dim memory. But the multi-lane highway that got us here included a race discrimination lane. Redliningmap1 The sub-prime mortgage market is not new, but its size and growth since the 1990s has been exponential. Between 1994 and 2005, sub-prime loans jumped from 5% to 20% of the entire mortgage market. In 1996, sub-prime lenders reported $90 billion in lending. By 2004, the sub-prime mortgage market had grown to $401 billion. One reason? Redlining – the practice of drawing red lines around communities of color on a map and refusing to write mortgages or provide mortgage insurance in them – helped produce the demand for the sub-prime mortgage market. If you can’t get conventional loans, you have to go to the loan sharks. Deregulation and the retreat on demands that banks invest in communities through the Community Reinvestment Act were also lanes on the highway. Market incentives, largely unregulated, drive mortgage brokers to prey on first-time homebuyers or folks looking to refinance, because they get bank commissions. Banks see profits in packaging sub-prime loans to Wall Street investors. Feeding on poverty and reduced access to credit in communities of color, we produce a sick economy that ultimately spreads the disease. While the sub-prime crisis affects all of us, communities of color are hurt more deeply. African Americans and Latinos are much more likely to have sub-prime mortgages than their White neighbors because of the discriminatory origins of the problem coupled with gutting the few weak provisions we had to create incentives for investment in communities of color. Even if we compare African American and White homeowners who have the same income, African Americans are more likely to have sub-prime loans. In fact, there is a larger subprime-prime gap between Blacks and Whites at higher income levels. The lesson here is that the path to a more perfect nation that invests in all of us requires policies that do so. The white middle class actually exists as a result of such policies. The New Deal and Fair Deal policies of the 1930s and 1940s invested in the creation of the middle class. It not only create a social safety net (the Social Security Act of 1935), it created government programs that produced homeownership. By the 1950s half of all home mortgages were guaranteed by the federal government. And it was not a race neutral investment. It discriminated against people of color and even refused to guarantee mortgages in integrated communities. What we need today is a President and a Congressional leaders who recognize that we must produce public dollars for investment in people. This requires government action and it requires paying attention to race to make sure that all communities benefit from the investments we make. In that way we can meet the challenge of addressing race and the slipping dreams of White Americans as well . . . and our union will be more perfect. Maya Wiley is the director of the Center
for Social Inclusion, a non-profit organization that works to
build a fair and just society by dismantling structural racism.
The Center partners with communities of color and other allies
to create strategies and build policy reform models to end racial
disparity and promote equal opportunity. |
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C-SPAN Special Alert! -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- C-SPAN and YouTube Want to Hear Your Thoughts on the Election C-SPAN wants to know, "What issue in this election is most important to you, and why?" Shoot a short video response to this question and post it on our YouTube page! Now through the eve of the Pennsylvania primaries, YouTube users and C-SPAN viewers can upload their video to the YouTube/C-SPAN webpage at www.YouTube.com/cspan. Visit this page to learn more about the project and to share your video. Focus your response on a single issue, and make sure it includes your name and home town. Some of your videos will air on C-SPAN starting on Sunday, April 13, during "Road to the White House" and other C-SPAN political programs. We look forward to hearing -- and seeing
-- what our viewers have to say during this historic election!
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C-SPAN Daily Alert -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- C-SPAN Highlights Tonight: Tomorrow: Tonight: Tomorrow: ********************************************************************** Tonight:
Tomorrow: Tonight: Tomorrow: * Road to the White House - Sun. on C-SPAN
at 6:30pm ET * Newspaper Articles * President Bush said Monday he will send the pending Colombia free-trade agreement to Congress, setting up a showdown with Democrats who strongly oppose the pact...- Full Story at www.c-span.org/capitolspotlight/ * Since the Civil War, how many times has
Alabama’s 5th Congressional District been represented by
a Republican? - Answer at www.c-span.org/capitolspotlight/ |
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Presidential Candidates Clinton
and Obama to Speak at CWA -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
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CNN To Air Live Presidential
Candidates Forum On Faith Issues -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://www.multichannel.com/article/CA6548653.html
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Petraeus Will Face All 3 Presidential
Candidates In Senate Hearings -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://www.allheadlinenews.com/articles/7010562288
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Online Videos Newest Battlefield
For Presidential Candidates And... -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://www.courant.com/technology/hc-youtubepolitics.artapr06,0,6043599.story
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FACTBOX: Presidential candidates'
on Iraq withdrawal -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://www.reuters.com/article/vcCandidateFeed1/idUSN043305120080407
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FLOOR SCHEDULE FOR TUESDAY,
APRIL 8, 2008 --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
House Meets At…
Last Vote Predicted…
12:30 p.m.: Morning Hour 2:00 p.m.: Legislative Business
Unlimited “One Minutes” Per Side 7:00 p.m.
Votes will be postponed until 6:30 p.m.
Suspensions (11 Bills): 1) H.Res. 265 - Honoring military children
during "National Month of the Military Child". (Rep.
Moran (VA) – Armed Services) 2) H.J.Res. 70 - Congratulating the Army
Reserve on its centennial, which will be formally celebrated
on April 23, 2008, and commemorating the historic contributions
of its veterans and continuing contributions of its soldiers
to the vital national security interests and homeland defense
missions of the United States (Rep. Bishop (GA) – Armed
Services) 3) H.Res. 1020 - Recognizing the tremendous
service that members of the Armed Forces have given to the Nation,
especially those who have been wounded in combat (Rep. Welch
– Armed Services) 4) H.R. 1198 - The Early Hearing Detection
and Intervention Act of 2008 (Rep. Capps - Energy and Commerce) 5) H.R. 2464 - The Wakefield Act (Rep.
Matheson - Energy and Commerce) 6) H.R. 1237 - The Cytology Proficiency
Improvement Act of 2007 (Rep. Gordon - Energy and Commerce) 7) S. 845 - The Safety of Seniors Act of
2008 (Sen. Enzi/Rep. Pallone- Energy and Commerce) 8) H.R. 2063 - The Food Allergy and Anaphylaxis
Management Act of 2008 (Rep. Lowey- Energy and Commerce) 9) S. 1858 - The Newborn Screening Saves
Lives Act of 2008 (Sen. Dodd/Rep. Roybal-Allard - Energy and
Commerce) 10) S. 793 - The Traumatic Brain Injury
Act of 2008 (Sen. Hatch/Rep. Pascrell- Energy and Commerce) 11) H.Res. 1077 - Calling on the Government
of the People's Republic of China to end its crackdown in Tibet
and enter into a substantive dialogue with His Holiness the Dalai
Lama to find a negotiated solution that respects the distinctive
language, culture, religious identity, and fundamental freedoms
of all Tibetans, and for other on Tibet (Rep. Pelosi – Foreign
Affairs) |
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Hello Friends and Fellow Obama
Supporters: -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://coastsider.com/index.php/%20site/....sement_to_post/
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6 hopefuls to run for US Senate -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://www.courierpostonline.com/apps/pb..../804080369/1006
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US general to update senate
on Iraq -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://www.rte.ie/news/2008/0408/iraq.html
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Petraeus Defiant in Senate
Testimony -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://www.outsidethebeltway.com/archive....nate_testimony/
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Exit poll: White Democrats
who consider candidate's race favor Clinton -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://www.wavy.com/Global/story.asp?S=8131310&nav=23ii
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Democrats Threaten NAFTA,
but Pact Is Here to Stay -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
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Analysis: Democrats Face Iraq
Challenge -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://ap.google.com/article/ALeqM5hexa-EJDWn7SGecuX5sBWJenOvogD8VTHM101
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Key Democratic senator warns
U.S. ‘exhausting itself’ in Iraq -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- WASHINGTON (CNN) — A leading Democratic senator Tuesday downplayed the importance of U.S. progress in Iraq. “We have gone from drowning to treading water,” said Sen. Joe Biden, D-Delaware, the chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations committee. “We are still spending $3 billion every week and we are still losing … 30 to 40 American lives every month. We can’t keep treading water without exhausting ourselves, and that is what the president seems to be asking us to do.” Biden was making an opening statement as
the top U.S. general and diplomat in Iraq prepared to testify
before the committee. |
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Iraq’s ambassador predicts
‘gradual reduction’ in American involvement -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- WASHINGTON (CNN) — Iraq’s Ambassador to the United States said Tuesday his country still needs the U.S. military to survive, and he predicted the next U.S. president, whoever it is, will agree the troops will have to stay for at least a while longer. Ambassador Samir Sumaidaie spoke in Washington at the same time as Gen. David Petraeus and U.S. Ambassador Ryan Crocker were talking to Congress about the latest U.S. military and diplomatic strategy. American forces “have to leave in a responsible manner. We want them to leave. Let’s be clear, he said at the Center for Strategic and International Studies, a Washington think tank. “I am willing to predict there will
be gradual reduction over the next few years of American involvement,
commitment in Iraq, but I am not willing to get into numbers
and dates,” he said. |
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Top U.S. general in Iraq warns
of Iranian meddling -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- WASHINGTON (CNN) — The top U.S. military commander and top diplomat in Iraq told a Senate panel Tuesday that Iran is playing a “destructive role” in Iraq. Gen. David Petraeus said Tehran is “funding, training, arming, and directing” military units known as Special Groups. “Unchecked, the Special Groups pose the greatest long-term threat to the viability of a democratic Iraq,” he said. Ambassador Ryan Crocker, the U.S. envoy
to Iraq, said Tehran is backing various militias there. He named
groups such as Vengeance of God and Iraqi Hezbollah, both of
which “almost certainly get support from Iran.” Both
men were testifying before the Senate Armed Services committee. |
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Senate, House at odds on response
to housing woes -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- NEW YORK (CNNMoney.com) — The Senate on Tuesday is expected to pass a $15 billion package of housing measures intended to stabilize the housing market. But that bill — crafted in 24 hours of bipartisan negotiation last week — faces an uncertain fate as the House gets ready to have its say on how best to address the nation’s foreclosure crisis. The House is expected to craft its own bill and not follow the Senate’s lead. The House’s plans started to take shape Tuesday when Rep. Charles Rangel, D-New York, the chairman of the powerful House Ways and Means Committee, proposed measures that would offer tax-related housing assistance. Further muddying the picture of what final measures Congress will settle on: House leaders have indicated they might also pursue proposals to address other problems in the economy — a move that could complicate speedy approval of any foreclosure provisions. –From CNNMoney.com’s Jeanne Sahadi |
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Clinton: Time to shift focus
from Iraq -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- WASHINGTON (CNN) — Sen. Hillary Clinton said Tuesday it would be “irresponsible” to continue a failed policy in Iraq. Clinton, who is seeking the Democratic nomination for president, said it is “time to begin an orderly process of withdrawing our troops” from Iraq in order to focus on Afghanistan and other U.S. interests. She was questioning Gen. David Petraeus, the top U.S. military commander in Iraq, and Ryan Crocker, the U.S. ambassador to Baghdad, who are testifying before the Senate Armed Services committee. She said a “lack of political progress
over the past six months” in Iraq and a failed Iraqi government
military offensive against militias in the south of the country
suggest things are not getting better there. |
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Clinton says Penn controversy
won’t be damaging -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- WASHINGTON (CNN) — Hillary Clinton predicted Tuesday that the recent controversy surrounding her top advisor’s meeting with the Colombian government wouldn’t prove damaging to her campaign, and suggested she dealt with the matter more definitively than Barack Obama did when he faced a similar situation. “I don’t think (it will hurt), because I think people want to know where I stand,” Clinton said on CNN’s “American Morning,” reiterating her opposition to a free trade agreement with Colombia. The adviser, chief strategist Mark Penn,
stepped down from that post over the weekend after news surfaced
he had met with the Colombian ambassador in his role as CEO of
a consulting firm to promote a free trade bill Clinton sharply
criticizes. He remains a consultant to Clinton’s campaign,
however. |
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Petraeus says Basra operation
could have been planned better by government -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- WASHINGTON (CNN) — Gen. David Petraeus told senators on Tuesday said the Iraqi government’s operation in Basra “could have been better planned, and the preparation could have been better.” Petraeus, the top U.S. general in Iraq,
said once the forces got into the southern Iraqi city, “they
ended up going into action more quickly than anticipated”
and Prime Minister Nuri al-Maliki didn’t follow his advice
to move at a more careful pace. |
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Growing calls for Bush to
boycott Olympics -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (CNN) — Hillary Clinton’s call for President Bush to boycott the opening ceremony of the Beijing Olympics adds to growing domestic pressure on the president to skip at least part of the Summer Games to protest China’s human rights record. Fifteen U.S. House members earlier this month asked Bush not to attend the Olympic Games at all, and House Speaker Nancy Pelosi separately called for Bush to consider a boycott of the opening ceremony. Bush has said he intends to meet with China’s president during a trip to see the Beijing Olympics, which begin August 8. Internationally, British Prime Minister
Gordon Brown is the only head of government to join with Bush
and announce he will attend the opening ceremony. |
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Petraeus recommends allowing
troop levels to be reduced slightly -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- WASHINGTON (CNN) — The top U.S. general in Iraq Tuesday recommended allowing American troop levels there to fall back to their pre-surge levels this summer. Gen. David Petraeus said the military should then pause for 45 days before deciding on the appropriate number of troops to keep there. Petraeus and Ambassador Ryan Crocker, the
U.S. envoy to Baghdad, are testifying before the Senate Armed
Services committee. |
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Top U.S. general says Iraqi
security ’significantly better' -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- WASHINGTON (CNN) — The top U.S. military commander in Iraq said Tuesday security there is “significantly better” than it was before the “surge” of American troops in the country. Gen. David Petraeus is testifying before
the Senate Armed Services committee, along with Ambassador Ryan
Crocker, the U.S. envoy to Iraq. |
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Key senator casts doubt on
rationale for “surge” in Iraq -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- WASHINGTON (CNN) — A leading Democratic
senator Tuesday cast doubt on Recent violence in the country “raises
questions” about both the military He spoke before the testimonies of Gen.
David Petraeus, the top U.S. The purpose of the surge, Levin said, “has
not been achieved.” |
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Al-Sadr threatens to call
off Mehdi Army cease-fire -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- BAGHDAD, Iraq (CNN) — Shiite cleric
Muqtada al-Sadr called off a mass These developments, which appeared in a
Web site message, reflect the The Wednesday demonstration was to coincide
with the congressional |
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With 14 days to go until the
people of Pennsylvania vote, the Obama campaign has decided to
go all-out. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- So now, here's what we have to ask ourselves: Have we come this far in our history-making contest for the Democratic nomination only to see the race decided not by the quality of our ideas but by the size of our opponent's media budget? Not a chance -- not if you and I have anything to say about it. And, believe me, we do. Don't let a sea of Obama ads overwhelm our powerful message in Pennsylvania. Contribute now. Everywhere I campaign in Pennsylvania, I meet people who are bearing the brunt of George Bush's failures on the war, the economy, health care, and other critical issues. They're eager to hear our powerful call for change. But, we need more ads on the air to make sure our message gets through to people. With just 14 days to go, please step up
and help us close the Obama campaign's 4-1 advantage. Contribute
now. Everything is on the line in Pennsylvania and the states to follow. And we still have the only advantage any campaign should hope for -- the ability to determine our fate by how hard we work and how determined we are to pull through to victory. This is one of the closest, most spirited contests for the Democratic nomination we've ever seen. And I have to tell you: I wouldn't want to be going through this remarkable experience with anyone other than you. With a little less than two weeks to go, let's give it everything we've got. Sincerely, Hillary |
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Tuesday’s Mini-Report -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Share This | Spotlight | Permalink Today’s edition of quick hits. * Another development that makes al-Sadr stronger and Maliki weaker: “Iraq’s top Shiite religious leaders have told anti-American cleric Muqtada al-Sadr not to disband his Mehdi Army, an al-Sadr spokesman said Monday amid fresh fighting in the militia’s Baghdad strongholds. Iraqi Prime Minister Nuri al-Maliki demanded Sunday that the cleric disband his militia, which waged two uprisings against U.S. troops in 2004, or see his supporters barred from public office. But al-Sadr spokesman Salah al-Obeidi said al-Sadr has consulted with Iraq’s Shiite clerical leadership “and they refused that.” He did not provide details of the talks.” * I’ll have more coverage of the Petraeus/Crocker hearing(s) in the morning, but Spencer Ackerman’s live-blogging has been excellent all day. Pay particular attention to Joe Biden and Jim Webb, both of whom probably saw the VP stock rise today. * More discouraging news on gas prices: “In the latest bit of bad news for cash-strapped consumers, the Energy Information Administration released its annual report on the outlook for summer fuels Tuesday and predicted that average gasoline prices will shoot up to $3.60 a gallon in June and remain nearly that high into fall. In a report released before a presentation scheduled for 11 a.m., the EIA — the statistical and analytical arm of the Energy Department — says that it expects gasoline prices to peak in June to just over $3.60 a gallon for regular unleaded. The monthly average diesel price is expected to peak at just over $3.90 per gallon this month.” * This was unexpected: “For the first time, White House spokeswoman Dana Perino Tuesday left the door open to President Bush skipping the opening ceremonies of the Olympics in Beijing to protest China’s crackdown in Tibet and human rights record. Asked by CNN at an on-camera briefing if Bush will specifically attend the opening ceremonies in Beijing, Perino would not be definitive. ‘We haven’t provided any schedules on the president’s trip,’ she said.” * This was less surprising: “On Tuesday, the Senate voted 92-6 to cut off all debate and hasten passage of the legislation, which would provide billions in tax breaks for homebuilders, tax credits for people who buy foreclosed homes and about $100 million for foreclosure prevention counseling. The bill lacks some of the most aggressive measures meant to help troubled homeowners, including a proposal that would allow bankruptcy judges to restructure mortgages in default. But even the bipartisan proposals, including $4 billion in community development block grants, have run into White House opposition.” * Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice really isn’t going to be McCain’s VP. |
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New top Clinton strategist
seeks to avoid ‘a thermonuclear climax' -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Share This | Spotlight | Permalink Once the dust settles on the presidential campaign, some smart person will write an interesting article about Democratic voters who like Hillary Clinton a lot more than Hillary Clinton’s campaign strategy. More often than not, I tend to find myself in this category — I respect and trust her as a leader, but frequently find myself frustrated and annoyed with the moves made by her campaign. It’s one reason I’ve been especially pleased by Mark Penn’s … well, whatever happened to Penn. By all accounts, he’s been responsible for most of the things that have bugged me the last few months. This is all the more encouraging given the approach preferred by Geoff Garin — Penn’s replacement as the campaign’s top strategist. Mr. Garin, 54, joined the Clinton campaign several weeks ago to augment strategy. His elevation could herald a less negative tone as the candidate tries to catch Mr. Obama. Inside the Clinton team, Mr. Penn advocated increasingly sharp attacks on Mr. Obama as Mrs. Clinton’s best option. Long before he joined the campaign, Mr. Garin argued that her route to success lay more in presenting her strengths than in assailing her opponent. “The sweet spot a campaign needs to hit is the intersection between what makes the candidate special and what the voters feel they need,” he explained, praising Mrs. Clinton’s values, spunk and resilience. Recalling a recent meeting with Mrs. Clinton, Mr. Garin said: “I had the same reaction so many people have: I wish everyone could see her this way. If we could help make that happen, that would be great.” I suspect different players have different motivations, but my sense is that most of the high-profile Dems who’ve been urging Clinton to drop out are doing so, at least in part, because they fear months of relentlessly negative campaigning between Dems. Dems know Mark Penn, and they know his approach, so they could see where this race was poised to go. And Garin doesn’t want to go there. http://www.thecarpetbaggerreport.com/
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If you've ever thought about
hitting the road to support Barack, now is the time. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The Pennsylvania primary is coming up in two weeks, on Tuesday, April 22nd. Thousands of volunteers are working every day to build our movement here. But with all eyes watching the outcome of this important contest, people are needed from across the country to come reach out to potential supporters in Pennsylvania and make sure everyone is ready and excited for Primary Day. Will you join us in Pennsylvania and help Get Out The Vote for Barack? http://pa.barackobama.com/cometoPA You can do more than just help this campaign. You can be part of a movement of ordinary Americans coming together to bring about the change we need. No prior political experience is necessary. Our team in Pennsylvania will be here to make sure you have all the support and training you need to have an impact on our Get Out The Vote effort. Help keep the movement growing before the Pennsylvania primary: http://pa.barackobama.com/cometoPA Thanks for all your hard work, Paul Paul Tewes |
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Lieberman’s unusual take
on ‘the facts’ -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Share This | Spotlight | Permalink Yglesias noted this afternoon that Joe Lieberman is “probably beyond shark-jumping at this point.” That’s no doubt true. (For me, Lieberman’s point of no return came in 2004, when he questioned the U.S. apology for Abu Ghraib torture because, “[T]hose who were responsible for killing 3,000 Americans on September 11th, 2001, never apologized.”) But the Connecticut senator continues to push the embarrassment envelope at every available opportunity. This morning, for example, Lieberman, after praising Gen. David Petraeus and Amb. Ryan Crocker, seemed utterly dumfounded by the fact that some senators are displeased by conditions in Iraq. http://www.thecarpetbaggerreport.com/
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Democrats Challenge Plans
to Finish Border Fence -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/con....8040702361.html
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C-SPAN Daily Alert -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- C-SPAN Highlights Tonight: Tomorrow: Tonight: Tomorrow: ********************************************************************** Tonight: Tomorrow: Tonight: Tomorrow: * Presidential Candidates Questions at
Iraq Senate Hearings - C-SPAN2 at 9:05pm ET * Newspaper Articles * Gen. David H. Petraeus, the top U.S. commander in Iraq, told Congress Tuesday that he has recommended a halt to troop withdrawals for at least 45 days once the “surge” forces added last year depart this summer...- Full Story at www.c-span.org/capitolspotlight/ * How many current House members from Texas
have served non-consecutive tenures? - Answer at www.c-span.org/capitolspotlight/ |
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C-SPAN Daily Alert -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- C-SPAN Highlights Tonight: Tomorrow: Tonight: Tomorrow: ********************************************************************** Tonight: Tomorrow: Tonight: Tomorrow: * Presidential Candidates Questions at
Iraq Senate Hearings - C-SPAN2 at 9:05pm ET * Newspaper Articles * Gen. David H. Petraeus, the top U.S. commander in Iraq, told Congress Tuesday that he has recommended a halt to troop withdrawals for at least 45 days once the “surge” forces added last year depart this summer...- Full Story at www.c-span.org/capitolspotlight/ * How many current House members from Texas
have served non-consecutive tenures? - Answer at www.c-span.org/capitolspotlight/ |
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Statement on Introduction
of Implementing Legislation for Columbia FTA -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- “Today, pursuant to the Trade Promotion Authority Act of 2002 (TPA), I introduced the implementing legislation for the U.S.-Columbia Trade Promotion Agreement. TPA incorporates the so-called ‘fast track’ procedural requirements of Section 151 of the Trade Act of 1974, including the requirement that the Majority Leader introduce an implementing bill submitted by the President. “While I am committed to fulfilling my statutory requirements as Majority Leader, I remain concerned about a number of unresolved issues related to this important agreement. I regret that the President sent the implementing bill to Congress prior to us first reaching bipartisan agreement on how to move forward.”
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Congressmen accuse FAA officials
of ‘inaccurate’ testimony -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- From Senior Investigative Producer Scott Bronstein WASHINGTON (CNN) — Top Democratic congressional leaders in Washington Tuesday accused senior members of the Federal Aviation Administration of submitting “inaccurate and misleading” testimony in a hearing held last week before the House Transportation Committee. The testimony concerned whether regional managers were ordered to hand-deliver to the airlines new FAA procedures for airlines “who were dissatisfied with the actions of FAA safety inspectors,” according to a letter from three members of the House Transportation Committee. Last week’s hearing concerned whistleblower
allegations that FAA managers ignored and even discouraged safety
inspectors from making complaints about unsafe and unairworthy
planes, specifically those from Southwest Airlines. |
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Byrd won’t give up top
committee spot -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- From CNN Congressional Producer Ted Barrett WASHINGTON (CNN) — Senior Democratic senators privately considered Tuesday Sen. Robert Byrd’s capacity to handle his spot at the top of the powerful Senate Appropriations Committee, but the 90-year-old lawmaker won’t be stepping down from the demanding job, his office told CNN. Roll Call first reported the discussions by several Democratic senators, and a Democratic aide, speaking on condition of anonymity, confirmed to CNN the thrust of the newspaper report. But the West Virginia senator’s spokesman,
Jesse Jacobs, rejected talk of replacing Byrd as chairman of
the committee. |
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Rice claims no VP ambitions -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- WASHINGTON (CNN) — Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice on Tuesday dismissed rumors she wants to be Sen. John McCain’s running mate in the November presidential election. She said she plans to return to Stanford University at the end of the Bush administration. “I very much look forward to watching this campaign and voting as a voter,” she said. “I have a lot of work to do and then I’ll happily go back to Stanford.” –From State Department producer Elise
Labott |
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Petraeus, Crocker admit Pakistan/Afghanistan
is greater al Qaeda threat than Iraq -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- During tough questioning from Senators Biden and Feingold today, General Petraeus and Ambassador Crocker admit, despite their best attempts to downplay, that al Qaeda’s main base of operation and greatest threat comes from Pakistan and Afghanistan; not Iraq. video_wmv Download | Play video_mov Download | Play As VoteVets.org founder Jon Soltz says, the Bush policy has been a failure because it’s a “policy of retreat from bin Laden and Afghanistan.” Perhaps people may have forgotten, but the 9/11 attacks were planned from terrorist safe havens in that country. Terrorist safe havens that still exist and are even stronger today than they were 7 years ago. http://www.crooksandliars.com/ |
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Michael Ware On Who Wields
Power In Iraq -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- video_wmv Download | Play video_mov Download | Play (h/t BillW) As the Senate Armed Services Committee grandstands through their oversight hearing with Iraq Ambassador Ryan Crocker and Gen. David Petraeus, with the Republicans willing to look at anything and everything as signs of progress, CNN correspondent Michael Ware has recently returned from Iraq, shows that the situation on the ground is far more complicated than Congress and Petraeus/Crocker wants to make it. BLITZER: Quick question, we just heard Nic’s report from Sadr City. Can the Iraqi forces loyal to the prime minister Nouri al Maliki crush these Shi’ite militias in Sadr City with U.S. military help? WARE: Well, first Wolf, I think you’d have to find which of these Iraqi units actually have soldiers loyal to Nouri al Maliki. Because, let’s bear in mind, much like the government itself, the Iraqi security forces are comprised of and drawn from the militias themselves. Now, whilst you do have other recruits who’ve just shown up for a paycheck, at the end of the day, the troops on the ground are drawn from the militias, are drawn from the political factions. These are the building blocks of Iraqi political power. And Nouri al Maliki, the prime minister, doesn’t have a militia and given that guns, the barrel of the gun is still the currency of political power in Iraq; Nouri al Maliki has little but words and some influence. Real power rests elsewhere. And this gets to crux of the problem. By what definition of “success” is Petraeus claiming the “surge” has caused? The initial justification was to reduce the violence to allow the government to gather strength, but as Ware points out, that’s not happening. To subdue neighborhoods in Baghdad–in an admittedly fragile, highly temporary way–how exactly is that “success” and how does continuing that policy pave the way for anything that will enable us to leave, ever? And most pointedly, when will there be a Democratic Senator that asks that question, because we know the Republicans never will? http://www.crooksandliars.com/ |
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Verdict with Dan Abrams: Donahue
and Carlson on Iraq -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- video_wmv Download | Play video_mov Download | Play (h/t Heather) The fallacy of “balance” in the media drives me nuts. Especially when they pair someone like Phil Donohue up with professional contrarian and annoyance Tucker Carlson, who couldn’t come up with a compelling viewpoint to get anyone to watch his own show. Why is it necessary to bring on another point of view on when you have a guest like Donahue, who has spent the better part of the last year working on his documentary, Body of War, appearing to discuss the movie and how he perceives the occupation in Iraq to be going, especially when Carlson can bring no special background or knowledge to the discussion? The concept of honest debate of important issues gets lost in stupid semantic nitpicking (”how can you call Cheney a wimp for getting out of going to Vietnam?”) that simply wastes airtime and prevents the public from hearing Donahue’s perspective (which it should not have to be pointed out, has been right far more consistently than Carlson has). Luckily, host Dan Abrams gave Donahue the last word: This war is not fair to the American troops. This war is a massive blunder and we still have people like John McCain who want to throw more young people on the sword because “we have to win, my friends.” What…you know, the way he talks, he’s going to find that last terrorist and go [points finger like a gun] bang! [blows on finger] Boy, I’m glad that’s over! That’s the way they’re talking. This is a nightmare. It is a (sic) endless quagmire that is going to cost more and more American blood while the American people are losing this. They have no focus on Iraq any more and our economy is tanking. http://www.crooksandliars.com/ |
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Obama gaining on Clinton in
Pennsylvania -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- * Story Highlights * Read Decrease font Decrease font WASHINGTON (CNN) -- Sen. Barack Obama continues
to chip away at Sen. Hillary Clinton's lead in the crucial state
of Pennsylvania, a new Quinnipiac poll out Tuesday showed. Sen. Barack Obama appears to be closing the gap with Sen. Hillary Clinton in Pennsylvania, polls say. The New York senator's lead over Obama now stands at 6 points in the new poll, 50-44 percent. That compares to the 9-point lead Clinton held in a similar survey released five days ago, and an 11-point lead in a Quinnipiac survey late last month. Specifically, Clinton has lost ground among white voters and men: She now holds an 18-point lead among whites, down from a 25-point gap in last week's poll, and trails Obama by 4 points among males. Last week, the two drew equal support from men. But Clinton continues to remain strong with her core voting bloc of older voters and white women, and likely Pennsylvania Democratic voters rate her more favorably than Obama -- 71 percent for Clinton and 67 percent for Obama. read at source> http://www.cnn.com/2008/POLITICS/04/08/democrats.pennsylvania/index.html
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ABC News: Troops Not Supporting
War Hero McCain -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- It may come as a shock to many in the world of political punditry, who live in a world where the military always votes Republican, but many of our troops aren't lining up behind war hero John McCain. Not surprisingly, troops on their third tour of duty in just about as many years want some time home with their families, and are worried about their own economic security. From ABC News: ABC's Martha Raddatz asked American soldiers in Iraq what issues are most important to them when looking at the presidential candidates. Though the military is not supposed to engage in partisan political activity, these soldiers spoke out about their personal endorsements, and their opinions are likely to matter. In 2004, 73 percent of the U.S. military voted for a presidential candidate, and officials believe it may be even higher this time around. PFC Jeremy Slate said he supported Sen. Barack Obama,¤ D-Ill., because of his stated intention to pull out of Iraq right away. "That would be nice," Slate said, "I'd like to be home, yea." SFC Patricia Keller also expressed support for Obama, citing his representation for change. Spc. Patrick Nicholls from Eggawam, Mass., pointed out that many soldiers on the frontlines frequently think about their families back home. "We think about how our families are doing back home. That's a major concern, like how the economy is doing, also as well as where we're going to be in the future. Because really, truly, what we consider we're doing, we're doing a valuable job, we want to make sure that the efforts we make are appreciated." He suggested he was too engaged in Iraq to keep up with politics back home. "I haven't really been following it too much since we've been over here, ma'am," he told Raddatz. "So, don't really know which issues are too important to me right now. ... I don't know who's running, ma'am." Lt. Leah Wicks said that, tied into concerns about her family's welfare, were concerns about the economy, "where we're going to be in the future." Only moments before speaking with ABC News, the troops had been listening to Vice President Dick Cheney give a rousing speech, but it didn't change their political preference. Spc. Imus Loto said he supported Obama. "It will be something different. But he's out there and he'll probably support us a lot more." By support, Loto meant pulling out troops. "Pull me out, too." he said. Also interesting was the fact that military members vote at such a high rate. If the military rank and file turnout in high numbers for the Democratic candidate, that's good news on two fronts. It will be a significant boost in support, and it will also help loosen the stranglehold that Republicans have on "national security" in our public debate. http://futuremajority.com/ |
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Petraeus says Iraq withdrawals
should wait; says Iran destabilizing -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- WASHINGTON (CNN) — The top U.S. officials in Iraq told Senate committees Tuesday that Iranian agents and weapons are fueling the ongoing strife there and that further U.S. troop withdrawals will have to wait. Gen. David Petraeus, the commander of U.S. troops in Iraq, and U.S. Ambassador Ryan Crocker spent about nine hours giving the Senate Armed Services and Foreign Relations committees their assessments of the 5-year-old war. Petraeus said that in the seven months since their last appearance before Congress, U.S. and Iraqi forces have made progress toward tamping down the violence, but that progress was “fragile” and “reversible.” While the last of the additional U.S. combat brigades dispatched in 2007 is scheduled to leave in June, Petraeus said he would recommend against further withdrawals for at least 45 days. Testimony wrapped up at about 7 p.m. and
is scheduled to resume tomorrow. |
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Top Democrat challenges Petraeus
to justify keeping large force in Iraq -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- WASHINGTON (CNN) — A leading Democratic congressman Wednesday challenged the top U.S. general in Iraq to explain why the United States should keep large numbers of troops in that country. “We and the American people must ask — why should we stay in Iraq in large numbers?” Rep. Ike Skelton, D-Missouri, demanded as Gen. David Petraeus began testifying before the House Armed Services Committee, which Skelton chairs. Petraeus said Tuesday the military should
not plan to reduce the number of U.S. troops in Iraq below 140,000
for at least 45 days after they fall to that level as planned
in July. |
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CORRECTION: Majority Leader
Hoyer’s Statement on Introduction of Implementing Legislation
for Colombia FTA -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- “Today, pursuant to the Trade Promotion Authority Act of 2002 (TPA), I introduced the implementing legislation for the U.S.-Colombia Trade Promotion Agreement. TPA incorporates the so-called ‘fast track’ procedural requirements of Section 151 of the Trade Act of 1974, including the requirement that the Majority Leader introduce an implementing bill submitted by the President. “While I am committed to fulfilling my statutory requirements as Majority Leader, I remain concerned about a number of unresolved issues related to this important agreement. I regret that the President sent the implementing bill to Congress prior to us first reaching bipartisan agreement on how to move forward.”
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John McCain is so wrong on
Iraq, he can't even get the basic facts about the situation on
the ground correct. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Today, as he was questioning Gen. David Petraeus, he again confused the difference between Shiite and Sunni Muslims. At least five times as a candidate John McCain has stated that Iran (a Shiite nation) is supporting Al-Qaeda (a Sunni group) in Iraq. This is not some minor mistake, but a significant gaffe. He clearly does not understand the sensitive political dynamics in that region of the world. What's worse is that he's done it at important times when you'd expect him to be at his best -- he did it today in the Senate while questioning the commander of American forces in Iraq, and he did it on a recent trip to the Middle East. If John McCain can't remember such a simple fact at crucial times, how will he be able to do it as President? We have to stop John McCain from taking control of the White House, and stop him from taking over George Bush's war in Iraq. Can you write a letter to the editor of your local paper letting voters in your area know just how confused John McCain is? http://www.democrats.org/gaffes Once is misspeaking -- five times is a dangerous lack of understanding. John McCain so badly misunderstands Iraq that he's content to stay there for 100 years, something he's said multiple times. He has also failed to explain how he would pay for a war that is now costing you and me $12 billion each month -- money we could be using to help our economy here at home. John McCain wants us to believe that his decades of foreign policy experience make him the natural choice to lead our nation at war with terrorists. We just can't afford someone who just doesn't understand Iraq -- it's too dangerous. Thanks for your support. Howard Dean |
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FLOOR SCHEDULE FOR WEDNESDAY,
APRIL 9, 2008 --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
House Meets At…
Last Vote Predicted…
10:00 a.m.: Legislative Business
Fifteen “One Minutes” Per Side 4:00 – 5:00 p.m.
Suspensions (7 Bills): 1) H.Res. 838 - Welcoming His Holiness
Pope Benedict XVI on his first apostolic visit to the United
States as Amended (Rep. McCotter – Foreign Affairs) 2) H.Res. 865 - Expressing the sense of
the House of Representatives that the March 2007 report of the
United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime and the International
Bank for Reconstruction and Development makes an important contribution
to the understanding of the high levels of crime and violence
in the Caribbean, and that the United States should work with
Caribbean countries to address crime and violence in the region
(Rep. Clarke - Foreign Affairs) 3) H.R. 5489 - To designate the facility
of the United States Postal Service located at 6892 Main Street
in Gloucester, Virginia, as the "Congresswoman Jo Ann S.
Davis Post Office". (Rep. Wittman - Oversight and Government
Reform) 4) H.R. 5472 - To designate the facility
of the United States Postal Service located at 2650 Dr. Martin
Luther King Jr. Street, Indianapolis, Indiana, as the "Julia
M. Carson Post Office Building". (Rep. Visclosky - Oversight
and Government Reform) 5) H.R. 5395 - To designate the facility
of the United States Postal Service located at 11001 Dunklin
Drive in St. Louis, Missouri, as the "William 'Bill"
Clay Post Office Building'. (Rep. Carnahan - Oversight and Government
Reform) 6) H.Res. 1038 - Recognizing the fifth
anniversary of the Department of Homeland Security and honoring
the Department's employees for their extraordinary efforts and
contributions to protect and secure our Nation (Rep. Thompson
(MS) – Homeland Security) 7) H.Res. 1082 - Recognizing the plumbing
industry and supporting the goals and ideas of “National
Plumbing Industry Week” (Rep. Velazquez – Small Business)
H.R. 2016 - The National Landscape Conservation
System Act (Rep. Grijalva – Natural Resources) (Subject
to a Rule)
Postponed Suspension Vote (1 Bill) 1) H.Res. 1077 - Calling on the Government
of the People's Republic of China to end its crackdown in Tibet
and enter into a substantive dialogue with His Holiness the Dalai
Lama to find a negotiated solution that respects the distinctive
language, culture, religious identity, and fundamental freedoms
of all Tibetans, and for other on Tibet (Rep. Pelosi – Foreign
Affairs) |
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US-Iraq-Senate /WRD Presidential
candidates clash over Iraq withdrawal -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://www2.irna.com/en/news/view/line-16/0804092206081451.htm
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Candidates experience the
stress of campaign -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://www.thetraveleronline.com/news/20....n-3310794.shtml
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Presidential Candidates Quiz
Petraeus -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://ap.google.com/article/ALeqM5jeRgHkn23-3ZyrS1xvdprCRptmsAD8VTUF680
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Presidential candidates set
for Iraq hearings -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://www.abc15.com/content/news/electi....a8-1705da6c7958
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Presidential candidates on
the economy -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://ohmygov.com/blogs/election_2008/a....he-economy.aspx
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Presidential candidates posture
over Iraq -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://www.reuters.com/article/politicsNews/idUSN0836639420080408
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Former presidential candidate
Kerry talks to undecided voters -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://www.zwire.com/site/news.cfm?newsi....id=187823&rfi=6
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Will the Democrats Sweep Congress
in November? -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://www.citizensugar.com/1533605
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Democrats Fight At The Iraq
Hearings -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://www.airamerica.com/blog/2008/apr/08/democrats-fight-iraq-hearings
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House Democrats Caucus Ethics
Reform -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://www.ctnewsjunkie.com/state_capitol/house_democrats_caucus_ethics.php
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Democrats Seek Again to Influence
War Policy -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://cqpolitics.com/wmspage.cfm?parm1=5&docID=news-000002699612
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Democrats to choose delegates
in Napa -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://www.napavalleyregister.com/articl....ee015590097.txt
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California Dem Speier Wins
Special Election to Succeed Lantos -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://www.cqpolitics.com/wmspage.cfm?docid=news-000002699627
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House takes on housing issue
amid partisan split -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- NEW YORK (CNNMoney.com) — A key House committee Wednesday took up in earnest proposed solutions to the housing crisis as the White House — hoping to ward off more stringent legislation — floated an idea to expand a program to help homeowners. The proposal at the heart of a hearing of the House Financial Services Committee from House Financial Services Chairman Barney Frank, D-Massachusetts, would let the Federal Housing Administration (FHA) insure $300 billion in troubled loans if lenders voluntarily write them down to at least 85 percent of the homes’ appraised value. In testimony before the committee, Sheila Bair, chairman of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corp., gave the proposal high marks in her testimony, though she included some caveats about the risk the plan poses to taxpayers. –From CNNMoney.com’s Jeanne Sahadi
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Top U.S. general in Iraq gives
Iraqi army ‘B-minus' grade -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- WASHINGTON (CNN) — The top U.S. general in Iraq gave the Iraqi army a grade of “B-minus, somewhere in the B range” Wednesday, saying a lot of work remains to be done. Gen. David Petraeus, testifying before
the House Armed Services Committee, said there is a wide range
of ability within the Iraqi army, from “exceedingly good
units” to “new units.” |
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Top Democrat challenges Petraeus
to justify keeping large force in Iraq -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- WASHINGTON (CNN) — A leading Democratic congressman Wednesday challenged the top U.S. general in Iraq to explain why the United States should keep large numbers of troops in that country. “We and the American people must ask — why should we stay in Iraq in large numbers?” Rep. Ike Skelton, D-Missouri, demanded as Gen. David Petraeus began testifying before the House Armed Services Committee, which Skelton chairs. Petraeus said Tuesday the military should
not plan to reduce the number of U.S. troops in Iraq below 140,000
for at least 45 days after they fall to that level as planned
in July. |
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GAO: Government credit cards
improperly used -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- WASHINGTON (CNN) — Federal employees charged millions of dollars to government credit or debit cards to pay for Internet dating services, iPods, expensive clothing, a $13,500 dinner, and lingerie to be worn during jungle training in Ecuador, according to a Government Accountability Office study released Wednesday. Nearly half of transactions made in the 2006 fiscal year with government credit or debit cards — referred to as “purchase cards” — were improper, the study found, and the audit condemned the government-wide “rate of failure” as “unacceptably high.” The improper purchases were either not
authorized or did not meet the government’s requirements
for using purchase cards, the study said. |
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House Democrats to table controversial
free trade deal -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- WASHINGTON (CNN) — Rejecting President Bush’s push for Congress to pass the Colombia Free Trade Agreement, Speaker Nancy Pelosi announced Wednesday that House Democrats plan to change the rules on how Congress handles trade agreements, effectively putting off any congressional consideration of the pact. Bush sent the trade agreement to Congress Tuesday. Under trade-negotiating rules, Congress must vote up or down on the pact within 90 days and cannot make changes to it. Pelosi, D-California, said House Democrats will remove the timeline requirement. –From CNN Congressional Producer Deirdre
Walsh |
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Congress campaigns against
Chinese crackdowns -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- WASHINGTON (CNN) — The U.S. House of Representatives overwhelmingly passed a resolution Wednesday calling on China to end its crackdown on Tibet and release Tibetans imprisoned for “nonviolent” demonstrations. The vote was 413-1. Rep. Ron Paul, R-Texas, who recently dropped out of the presidential race, was the lone congressman voting against it.The resolution passed just hours before runners were to carry the Olympic torch on a six-mile route around San Francisco Bay. The relay leg is to start at 1 p.m. (4 p.m. ET), and protests were expected. Also Wednesday, Sens. Robert Byrd, D-West
Virginia; Hillary Clinton, D-New York; and Robert Menendez, D-New
Jersey; wrote President Bush a letter urging him to skip the
Games’ opening ceremonies. |
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Clinton challenges McCain,
Obama on war -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ALIQUIPPA, Pennsylvania (CNN) -- Sen. Hillary
Clinton on Wednesday argued that she is the only presidential
candidate capable of ending the war in Iraq. Sen. Hillary Clinton says she's "is ready, willing and able to end the war." "One candidate will continue the war and keep the troops in Iraq indefinitely. One candidate only says he will end the war," she said while campaigning in Pennsylvania. "And one candidate is ready, willing and able to end the war and to rebuild our military while honoring our soldiers and our veterans." The senator from New York tried to make her case that Sens. Barack Obama, her Democratic rival, and John McCain, the presumptive Republican presidential nominee, can't be trusted to end the war. Video Watch Clinton say she is ready to end the war » Her comments come one day after she told Gen. David Petraeus, the top U.S. commander in Iraq, and Ryan Crocker, U.S. ambassador to Iraq, that it would be "irresponsible" to continue American military involvement there. Before a backdrop reading "Solutions for a Strong Military," Clinton accused McCain of wanting to keep troops in Iraq "for up to 100 years," an allegation the Republican's campaign has disputed. "Yesterday, he basically reiterated his commitment to the course we are on," she said. "Well, I don't agree with that." Video Watch Clinton go on the offensive about Iraq » In response, Republican National Committee
spokesman Alex Conant accused Clinton of not listening to Petraeus
and Crocker. * General challenged to justify Iraq deployment "Sen. Clinton's calls for retreat would leave Iraq to the terrorists and lead the U.S. into a wider and more difficult war in the future. It's clear Clinton is listening to her party's left-wing base and not Gen. Petraeus and Ambassador Crocker," he said. Video Watch what the candidates asked Petraeus » Clinton's plan calls for withdrawing troops within 60 days of her becoming president, in consult with military advisers. In her speech Wednesday, she questioned Obama's commitment to achieving the same goal. "Sen. Obama on the other hand says he will end the war, but his top foreign policy adviser said he won't necessarily follow the plan he has been talking about during this campaign, that his plan is just words," she said. "You can count on me to end the war safely and responsibly." Clinton was referring to former Obama adviser Samantha Power, who told the BBC in March that it would be difficult for the next president to commit firmly to a campaign pledge to withdraw troops, when no one can predict what the situation on the ground in Iraq will be in January 2009. Power said Obama's plan to withdraw combat troops within 16 months is a "best-case scenario." She resigned last month after a Scottish newspaper quoted her calling Clinton a "monster." Video Watch an analysis of where Obama, Clinton stand on Iraq and in the polls » The Obama camp issued a statement saying
the senator from Illinois "is the only candidate who had
the judgment to oppose the war from the very beginning, not just
from the beginning of a campaign for president." |
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General challenged to justify
Iraq deployment -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- WASHINGTON (CNN) -- A leading Democratic
congressman Wednesday challenged the top U.S. general in Iraq
to explain why the United States should keep large numbers of
troops in that country. Gen. David Petraeus and Ambassador Ryan
Crocker testify before the House Armed Services Committee Wednesday. "We and the American people must ask: Why should we stay in Iraq in large numbers?" Rep. Ike Skelton, the chairman of the House Armed Services Committee, demanded as Gen. David Petraeus began testifying. "I hope you can also explain the next strategy," Skelton asked asked. "The counterinsurgency strategy worked tactically, but the surge forces are going home. Political reconciliation hasn't happened, and violence has leveled off and may be creeping back." "So how can we encourage and not force the intransigent political leaders of Iraq to forge a real nation out of the base sectarian instincts? So what is the new strategy?" the Missouri Democrat asked. Wednesday was day two of Petraeus and Crocker testimony on Capitol Hill. On Tuesday , the two spent about nine hours giving the Senate Armed Services and Foreign Relations committees their assessments of the 5-year-old war. Petraeus said in the seven months since
their last appearance before Congress, U.S. and Iraqi forces
have made progress toward tamping down the violence, but progress
was "fragile" and "reversible." Video Watch
Petraeus call the progress "significant" but "uneven"
» * Clinton challenges McCain, Obama on war Petraeus also recommended that troop withdrawals from Iraq be paused for 45 days after July when the U.S. in Iraq will be reduced to 140,000. Asked whether further troop reductions could resume after the pause, Petraeus repeated his position that future troop levels be based on conditions on the ground. "This approach does not allow establishment of a set withdrawal timetable," he said on Tuesday. "However it does provide the flexibility those of us on the ground need to preserve the still-fragile security gains our troopers have fought so far and sacrifice so much to achieve." Video Watch Petraeus tell representatives what the U.S. is fighting for » Democratic senators, as well as some Republicans, expressed frustration that an end to the Iraq deployment did not appear to be in sight. "War is not a linear phenomenon," Petraeus said. "It's a calculus, not arithmetic." That answer was not good enough for Democratic senators. Sen. Joseph Biden, the Foreign Relations Committee's chairman, said continued U.S. involvement was "unsustainable." "We have gone from drowning to treading
water," said Biden, D-Delaware, who mounted an unsuccessful
presidential campaign earlier this year. "We are still spending
$3 billion every week and we are still losing ... 30 to 40 American
lives every month. We can't keep treading water without exhausting
ourselves, and that is what the president seems to be asking
us to do." Video Watch Biden call Petraeus "straightforward
and honest" » However, Sen. John McCain, the top Republican on the Armed Services Committee and the presumptive GOP presidential nominee, said because of last year's troop increase, the United States is no longer "staring into the abyss of defeat." Video Watch McCain call Iraq a "hard road" » "Success, the establishment of peaceful,
democratic state, the defeat of terrorism -- this success is
within reach," he said. "Congress must not choose to
lose in Iraq. We must choose to succeed." |
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Senators blast FAA in safety
hearing -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- WASHINGTON (CNN) — Senators admonished the Federal Aviation Authority on Thursday for becoming “too close to the industry it regulates” and said the airline safety watchdog had been neglecting its safety operations. The hearing came after months of high-profile airline safety issues and ongoing flight cancellations as airlines perform safety checks. “The FAA is an agency spiraling downward,” Sen. Jay Rockefeller, D-West Virginia, told the head of the FAA’s safety division, Nicholas Sabatini. The American people put their trust in FAA, Rockefeller said, and “in recent weeks that trust has been put to a severe test.” “I think (it’s) approaching the
losing the confidence of the American people and of the Congress,”
he warned. |
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Democrats critical of Bush
speech -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- WASHINGTON (CNN) — The Democratic leaders of Congress, who have pushed unsuccessfully to end the Iraq war since winning control of the House and Senate in 2006, said Bush’s speech Thursday — in which he said troop levels will remain around 140,000 until further notice — showed the president plans to leave the widely unpopular war in the lap of his successor when he leaves office in 2009. “The president has a timeline — January 20th of next year,” Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid said. “Our troops also need a timeline.” And House Speaker Nancy Pelosi linked the
cost of the war — now projected at more than $600 billion
— to the economic slowdown Americans are now facing at home.
“The president has take us into a failed war, he’s
taken us deeply into debt and that debt is taking us into recession,”
she said. |
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Petraeus and Crocker Testimony -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Read more about Petraeus and Crocker's
testimony yesterday following more than a week of bad news in
Iraq. ### |
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C-SPAN Daily Alert -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- C-SPAN Highlights Tonight: Tomorrow: Tonight: Tomorrow: ********************************************************************** Tonight: Tomorrow: Tonight: Tomorrow: ********************************************************************** * Road to the White House - Sunday on C-SPAN
at 6:30pm ET * Newspaper Articles * House Democratic leaders plan to seek a floor vote Thursday to delay consideration of the newly submitted Colombia free trade agreement, countering President Bush’s effort to force a speedy decision on the deal...- Full Story at www.c-span.org/capitolspotlight/ * Who was the most recent House Democrat
from New England who lost a race for re-election? - Answer at
www.c-span.org/capitolspotlight/ |
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There are just three days
left before North Carolina's voter registration deadline, and
I need your help to reach as many supporters as possible. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Bringing more voices into the political process is what this campaign is all about. You can make a difference today, right from your home. Use our online phonebanking tool, and start calling North Carolina supporters now: http://my.barackobama.com/callNC Across North Carolina, there are tens of thousands of people who are ready for change -- but many are not yet registered to vote. We need to reach out to them, and we need your help. Our success in this campaign has come from ordinary Americans believing in the power of one voice to bring change. In North Carolina -- in these next three days -- you can be that voice. Pick up the phone, make a personal connection, and start making a difference now: http://my.barackobama.com/callNC Our on-line calling system is easy and fun to use. Here's how it works: * Once you log in, you'll get a list of
20 names that only you will receive. (If you don't have a My.BarackObama
account, creating one is fast and easy.) Thank you for getting involved and building this movement, Barack |
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National Landscape Conservation
System Act -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- “This bill provides long overdue authorization to an eight-year initiative of both Democratic and Republican Administrations, establishing the National Landscape Conservation System and ensuring an institutional home for all areas with special conservation status that are managed by the Bureau of Land Management. “The system consists of more than 26 million acres of land, about 10% of the land managed by BLM, and includes: National Monuments, National Conservation Areas, Wilderness, Wilderness Study Areas, Wild and Scenic Rivers, and National and Scenic Trails. These outstanding natural resources deserve the type of focus and institutional attention this legislation will provide, and will ensure that the conservation values that caused Congress to give them special status are protected. “Many think of BLM as a western public lands agency, but that is not the case. I am particularly pleased that one of the units in this system, the Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail, traverses Maryland’s 5th Congressional District. The Conservation System includes 13 National Scenic and Historic Trails, covering over 5,500 miles. “The portion of Potomac Heritage Trail in my district is only 14 miles south of the Beltway on the east side of the Potomac River. This area is the first BLM designated Heritage National Scenic Trail segment in the East. It is managed jointly by the BLM and the State of Maryland through the Department of Natural Resources. The BLM segment of the trail travels through 540 acres in Charles County known as the Douglas Point property. “I am pleased that today Congress is providing needed national attention and focus to these important lands.”
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Testimony from General Petraeus
and Ambassador Crocker -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- WASHINGTON, DC – House Majority Leader Steny H. Hoyer (MD) released the following statement today in response to testimony from General David Petraeus and Ambassador Ryan Crocker on Iraq: “Today, General David Petraeus and Ambassador Ryan Crocker testified before the House Armed Services and Foreign Affairs Committees. But they told us very little that was new, and I suspect that they did very little to change the American people’s conclusion that our Iraq strategy is in grave need of a new direction. “Despite evidence of security progress, even General Petraeus made it clear that ‘we haven’t turned any corners….We haven’t seen any lights at the end of the tunnel.’ While I am grateful for his candor – and even more so for the extraordinary sacrifices made by our brave men and women in uniform – the facts on the ground speak for themselves. Rockets continue to rain down on the Green Zone, Baghdad’s most heavily-guarded section; last weekend, two American soldiers were killed there, and 17 were wounded. The security gains trumpeted by the Bush Administration seem to be dependent on the cooperation of Moqtada al-Sadr, who answers to Iran. Iraq’s warring factions have failed to achieve political reconciliation. “And despite General Petraeus’s call to keep some 140,000 troops in Iraq well into the fall, the current operations tempo simply cannot be sustained – not without crippling America’s military readiness for years. In fact, as Army Vice Chief of Staff General Richard Cody testified last month, ‘I’ve never seen our lack of strategic depth be where it is today.’ “President Bush’s Iraq policy – centered consistently on ‘staying the course’ – is stripping resources away from the central front in the war against terrorism and driving America deeper and deeper into debt. It is telling that neither General Petraeus nor Ambassador Crocker denied a Congressional Budget Office estimate that the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan could end up costing more than $2 trillion, nearly all of it borrowed, by 2018. If President Bush and his allies have their way, another 10 years of occupation, or more, is a very real possibility. “In the months to come, the Democratic Congress will keep doing what it was elected to do: working to set a new strategy, to achieve stability through diplomacy, to renew our focus on the fight against al-Qaeda, and to address the readiness challenge facing our Armed Forces as a result of this war. The more than 4,000 American lives lost in Iraq can never be replaced. As we honor them, we will continue to strive for a new direction in Iraq.”
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FLOOR SCHEDULE FOR THURSDAY,
APRIL 10, 2008 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FLOOR SCHEDULE FOR THURSDAY, APRIL 10, 2008
House Meets At…
Last Vote Predicted…
10:00 a.m.: Legislative Business
Five “One Minutes” Per Side 2:00 – 3:00 p.m.
H.R. 2537 - Beach Protection Act of 2007
(Rep. Pallone – Transportation and Infrastructure) (Subject
to a Rule) H.Res. 1092 - Relating to the consideration
of the bill (H.R. 5724) http://thomas.loc.gov/cgi-bin/bdquery/z?d110:HR5724:/
to implement the United States-Colombia Trade Promotion Agreement
(Rep. Slaughter – Rules)
Postponed Suspension Vote (1 Bill) 1) H.Res. 1038 - Recognizing the fifth
anniversary of the Department of Homeland Security and honoring
the Department's employees for their extraordinary efforts and
contributions to protect and secure our Nation (Rep. Thompson
(MS) – Homeland) |
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Florida Senate approves $66
billion budget -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://www.miamiherald.com/466/story/489092.html
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Iraq emerges as early issue
in Democratic Senate primary -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://www.politickernj.com/matt-friedma....-senate-primary
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Senate, House push housing
measures -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://www.wtte28.com/template/inews_wir.....wtte.com.shtml
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House and Senate Approve Smoking
Ban -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://www.whotv.com/Global/story.asp?S=8138978
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Democrats Move to Stop the
Clock on Colombia Deal -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://blogs.wsj.com/washwire/2008/04/09....al/?mod=WSJBlog
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White House and Democrats
Clash Over Trade Pact -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://www.nytimes.com/2008/04/09/washington/09cnd-trade.html?hp
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Democrats say Iraq diverts
focus from al Qaeda -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://in.reuters.com/article/worldNews/idINIndia-32948520080409
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Democrats call for Iraq pullout
despite Petraeus' report of gains -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://www.washingtontimes.com/apps/pbcs..../825521290/1002
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Democrats to push second economic
stimulus -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://www.reuters.com/article/politicsNews/idUSN0935011020080409
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White House, Democrats Offer
Contrasting Mortgage Relief Plans -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://www.wcsh6.com/news/article.aspx?storyid=84466
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White House, Democrats Offer
Contrasting Mortgage Relief Plans -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://www.wcsh6.com/news/article.aspx?storyid=84466
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CNN to Air Live Broadcast
of 2008 Presidential Candidates Forum on ... -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://www.allamericanpatriots.com/48745....ntial-candidate
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President Bush’s Comments
on Iraq -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- “The President’s comments today on the war in Iraq essentially restated – albeit in a more subtle form – what Vice President Cheney said last month: This Administration has every intention of ignoring the will of the American people, who want our troops redeployed in a responsible fashion and who want the Iraqis to take responsibility for the future of their own nation. “Instead, the President promised to stay the course, despite the clear failure of his policies in Iraq over the last five years, and offered an open-ended commitment with no end in sight. “The Administration’s rhetoric on so-called ‘progress’ in Iraq simply does not reflect reality. The Green Zone – which houses American military and civilian authorities – is under attack on a nearly daily basis. Security gains seem unsustainable, and dependent on the cooperation of Moqtada al-Sadr. Our military readiness has been severely degraded. Iran’s hand in the region has been strengthened. And meanwhile, the real fight against al-Qaeda along the Afghanistan-Pakistan border does not have sufficient resources. “It is long past time that we redeploy our troops and demand that the Iraqis take responsibility for their future. Democrats in Congress will continue to work for a new strategy in Iraq, will seek to engage in a diplomatic surge with our regional and international partners, and will reinvigorate our fight against al-Qaeda. “Our nation is paying an extraordinarily high price for the egregious mistakes made by this Administration in Iraq, as well as its obstinate insistence that we stay the course rather than implementing a strategy designed to succeed.”
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Franklin County Democratic
convention, caucus set Saturday -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://www.tri-cityherald.com/901/story/152673.html
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Black Voter Registration Surges
in NC -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://dreamgeneration.blogspot.com/2008....rges-in-nc.html
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Poll: Clinton Ahead By Six
Points In Pennsylvania -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://tpmelectioncentral.talkingpointsm....by_six_poin.php
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Elton John Rakes in $2.5M
for Clinton at Benefit Concert, Calls ... -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://elections.foxnews.com/2008/04/09/....s-
misogynists/ |
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C-SPAN Daily Alert -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- C-SPAN Highlights Tonight: Tomorrow: Tonight: Tomorrow: Tonight: Tomorrow: ********************************************************************** Tonight: Tomorrow: * RWH: Panel on Campiagn '08 & Ralph
Nader (I) Event - Sun., C-SPAN, 6:30pm ET * Newspaper Articles * The Senate by 84-12 passed a bipartisan housing package Thursday, amid indications that President Bush is eager to receive a final version he can sign...- Full Story at www.c-span.org/capitolspotlight/ * How many women are in California’s
congressional delegation with the election of its newest member?
- Answer at www.c-span.org/capitolspotlight/ |
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Thanks to your incredible
support, we are airing ads across Pennsylvania. I wanted to share
one very special ad you helped us get on the air. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Click here to watch our new ad, "Scranton." This ad and others like it are up thanks to you. The race is close, but I know we are going to win because of what you have done for Hillary. Your support makes the difference every single day, and I can't tell you how much I appreciate all you do. Sincerely, |
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Presidential candidates respond
to Iraq -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://www.necn.com/Boston/Politics/Pres....1207863927.html
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Senate overwhelmingly passes
housing bill -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://www.upi.com/NewsTrack/Top_News/20....sing_bill/2460/
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Gates: Iraq drawdown should
continue if conditions improve -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://afp.google.com/article/ALeqM5jpV6P1TyLlMTVkIdBrbWTAvVkYnQ
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US Senate Backs Legislation
to Stem Housing Foreclosures -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pid=20601087&sid=aXXYJ7sDL9l0&refer=home
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Senate Dem leaders call for
special session in Autumn -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://haussamen.blogspot.com/2008/04/senate-dem-leaders-call-for-special.html
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40th Anniversary of the Civil
Rights Act of 1968 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- “Just last week, we marked the 40th anniversary of the assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. That day will forever be etched in our national memory. What some may overlook, however, is that just a week after his death, this nation chose to continue his work and honor his memory by signing the Civil Rights Act of 1968 into law. It was a constructive answer to a destructive act. “The main provision of the law that President Lyndon Johnson signed 40 years ago today is known as the Fair Housing Act. This provision sought to raise millions of African-Americans out of the substandard housing that kept them confined to the ghetto and resulted in de facto segregation. In the America of the 60s, segregation was often the result of small acts of prejudice, rather than official discrimination. The Fair Housing Act outlawed that kind of discrimination, preventing landlords from shutting out tenants or refusing to sell property to a buyer on the basis of race, color, religion, or national origin. “The passage of the Civil Rights Act was a giant step forward on the path to equality, an even more remarkable feat considering the events one week prior. April 4 is a somber day in our history: the day Dr. King was taken from us. But April 11 is a hopeful day: the day we showed that the cause of civil rights for all – all too often halting and stumbling, but with a true aim – would go on without him.”
### |
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The people who count Hillary
out of this race don't know her the way you and I do. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Do we have an uphill battle to fight? You bet we do. We face an opponent who has a virtually unlimited war chest, who is breaking records to spend whatever it takes to win. But I know that with Hillary leading the way and your strong support behind her, we can get the job done and we can win. Hillary doesn't care what the pundits say. She's listening to you. And that's why you need to speak out loud and clear and tell her today -- just 11 days until the next big primary in Pennsylvania -- that she has your support. Contribute today to help Hillary keep fighting
and winning. I talk to people every day who want to know whether Hillary is going to go the distance. I tell them all the same thing -- if you knew Hillary like I do, you'd know she is in this race to win. Hillary's a fighter. She's fighting now to ensure that millions of Americans have the chance to make their voices heard -- and making sure Michigan and Florida aren't counted out. And as our president, she's going to fight for the American dream that we all share. But first, we have an uphill battle to fight together, starting in Pennsylvania. Right now, the Obama campaign is spending an unprecedented $2.2 million per week on TV ads in the Keystone state -- an amount one Pennsylvania strategist called "unbelievable." With just 11 days until voters go to the polls, we can't afford to be outspent. Every day the ground shifts; every day there's a new twist in this race. Now is the moment when your support will count for the most. Now is the moment when Hillary needs you fighting by her side. Contribute now to help us match the Obama campaign ad-for-ad in these final days before the Pennsylvania primary. Thank you so much for all you do for our campaign -- let's keep working until we put Hillary in the White House! Sincerely, Bill Clinton |
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C-SPAN Weekend Alert -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- C-SPAN Highlights Friday: Saturday: Sunday: Monday: Friday: Saturday: Monday: ********************************************************************** Friday: Saturday: Sunday: Monday: Saturday: Sunday: Monday: * RWH: Panel on Campaign '08 & Ralph
Nader (I) Event - Sun., C-SPAN, 6:30pm ET Saturday: Sunday: Monday: * The White House escalated the war of words over the fiscal 2008 supplemental bill Friday, promising not to allow overall funding increases as it eventually did last year... - Full Story at www.c-span.org/capitolspotlight/ * Which Arkansas Democrat unseated Democratic
Sen. J. William Fulbright in a primary? - Answer at www.c-span.org/capitolspotlight/
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MESSAGE FROM THE MAJORITY
LEADER -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- This week, the House and Senate heard from General David Petraeus and Ambassador Ryan Crocker on the situation in Iraq. Their remarks confirmed that the Administration remains committed to "staying the course," despite the reality on the ground: the Green Zone is regularly under attack, security gains seem unsustainable and dependent on the cooperation of Moqtada al-Sadr, and our military readiness has hit its lowest point in years. The Administration has still not made clear what conditions will have to be met before it is possible to leave. It is past time to redeploy our troops and have Iraqis take responsibility for the future of their country. Democrats will continue to work for a new direction in Iraq, engage in a diplomatic surge with regional and global partners, and refocus on the fight against al Qaeda. Next week, the House will mark Tax Day with a bill to assist taxpayers by simplifying the tax code. Years of Republican control have made our tax code far more complex, making it more complicated and confusing for Americans trying to complete their taxes. House Democrats' Taxpayer Assistance and Simplification Act will improve the tax code to protect taxpayers, make filing taxes simpler, and increase outreach to taxpayers. We will also take up the Ensuring Continued Access to Student Loans Act. As the credit crunch is felt across our economy, Democrats are committed to ensuring that students have the resources they need to continue their education. This legislation will provide new protections to assure families that they will continue to have uninterrupted access to federal college loans.
Sincerely yours, |
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Democrats say Iraq war hits
US pocketbooks -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://www.middle-east-online.com/english/?id=25322
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Pelosi: Democrats need unity -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://www.gwhatchet.com/news/2008/04/10....y-3316049.shtml
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Democrats begin to make economic
argument against the war -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://www.ecollegetimes.com/news/2008/0....-33166
81.shtml |
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Democrats push back Colombia
trade pact -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://www.miamiherald.com/business/story/490804.html
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Democrats say Bush's Iraq
plan keeps troops there -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://www.kdbc.com/Global/story.asp?S=8148500&nav=menu608_2_4
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Howard Dean speaks to Culpeper
Democrats -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://fredericksburg.com/News/FLS/2008/042008/04112008/370758
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Maliki Endorses Obama-Clinton
Plan for Iraq, Rejects McCain -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://www.democrats.com/maliki-endorses-obama-clinton
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Obama Supported by Anti-Abortion
Democrats -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://tothecenter.com/news.php?readmore=4659
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Obama: I would have fired
Mark Penn -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- INDIANAPOLIS, Indiana (CNN) — Barack Obama told reporters Friday that had top Clinton strategist Mark Penn been on his staff, he would have removed him for having met with the Colombian government to discuss passing a proposed free trade agreement with the nation. "Let me put it this way," the Illinois senator said. "I'm not surprised that Sen. Clinton found herself in an uncomfortable position as a consequence, and I know that if staff of mine were putting me in that kind of position I would get rid of them." read at source> http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/200....ired-mark-penn/
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Gen. Paul Eaton: In Iraq,
where is the cavalry? -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The Bush administration has chosen to abandon our under-equipped and over-burdened military to fight alone in Iraq. After successfully alienating potential allies in the prosecution of our war in Iraq, this Administration continues to view our first truly interagency war as a purely military event. The absence of credible State Department participation in this fight and the absolute failure of the rest of the Executive Branch to participate in this war leaves the entire burden upon the shoulders of our Soldiers and Marines. To witness press and Congressional preoccupation with the military commander at this week’s hearings and mild interest in State’s man, Ambassador Crocker, one would surmise that they don’t understand, either. Iraq is not the plains of Germany during the Cold War. Iraq is an insurgency. Our commanders need the application of the full power of the United States to bear upon the fight in Iraq. We need a focused and determined Diplomatic Surge within Iraq — and without. Every interested player –- and that includes all border countries, Israel and Egypt –- needs a seat at the table. Interests need to be identified and let the negotiations begin. Not unlike the Egyptian/Israeli accord or Dayton. This is hard diplomatic work, and is apparently beyond our current Secretary of State’s intent or capability. The recent example of Turkey’s attack into Iraq is the most recent indicator of our failure to work a competent diplomatic program. A fully engaged diplomatic effort would address internal tensions that bedevil the Al Maliki government and foster competent internal government. We need to get angry Arab men off the street, gainfully employed. The rest of the President’s cabinet and their departments are very much needed by our military. We need a reinvigorated Provincial Reconstruction Team program – new life to an idea that worked very well for the French in Algeria. In the words of one commander, “I don’t need more combat troops, I need agriculture and water experts.” Yet Commerce, Transportation, Education, Treasury and the rest of the President’s cabinet have been AWOL in this war. General Petraeus was polite during the hearings. He never once complained. He never asked the President: “Where is the cavalry?” - Major General Paul Eaton, U.S. Army (Ret.), former commander of Iraqi Armed Forces and their development command read at source> http://ac360.blogs.cnn.com/2008/04/11/in-iraq-where-is-the-cavalry/
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Iran denies its boats taunted
U.S. Navy -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- TEHRAN, Iran (CNN) — Iran denied a report that several of its boats taunted a U.S. Navy vessel in the Persian Gulf on Thursday night, according to IRNA, Iran’s official news agency. A U.S. military official told CNN Friday that the USS Typhoon, a small patrol craft, was approached by three small Iranian boats in a “taunting manner.” “There has been no confrontation between Iranian boats and the U.S. (fifth) fleet,” IRNA quoted an unnamed Iranian source as saying. The U.S. military source said U.S. Navy officers conducted bridge-to-bridge communications with the Iranian boats and two then turned away. But one came within 200 yards of the Typhoon, prompting it to fire a warning flare. The Iranian boat then turned away. The confrontation is not considered serious, the U.S. official said. IRNA said the U.S. media “tries to
portray the Persian Gulf as a turbulent area in order to prepare
the grounds for the permanent presence of U.S. forces in the
region.” |
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U.S. military official explains
use of ‘criminal’ in Iraq statements -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- BAGHDAD, Iraq (CNN) — The U.S. military in recent weeks has taken to labeling targets of military strikes in Iraq’s Shiite regions as “criminals” — not “insurgents,” “terrorists” or “militants” — though they may not be charged or tried. A U.S. military official said Friday the targets of military strikes have been called “criminals” in military news releases for a basic reason: these individuals “are in the process” of committing “or have committed a crime.” “It’s spin,” said Eugene R. Fidell, a professor of military law at Yale Law School and Washington College of Law at American University. “It’s to imply that all we have
here is law enforcement problems,” he said, referring to
the recent fighting in Iraq’s Shiite region. “But we’re
not dealing with law enforcement — we’re dealing with
fundamental threats to public safety.” |
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Iraqi government dismissed
1,300 police and soldiers -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- BAGHDAD, Iraq (CNN) — The Iraqi government has dismissed approximately 1,300 police and soldiers who refused to fight or neglected their duties during last month’s crackdown on criminal elements in Shiite areas, an Interior Ministry spokesman said Sunday. Maj. Gen. Abdul Karim Khalif said more than 900 of those dismissed were stationed in the southern city of Basra, including 37 senior officers. The remaining police and soldiers had been stationed in Kut — about 95 miles (153 km) southeast of Baghdad — he said. They were removed for desertion, refusal to fight and negligence of duty, Khalif said. Intra-Shiite fighting erupted on March
25, when Iraqi security forces began a crackdown on criminal
elements in the mostly Shiite city of Basra. The fighting then
spread to other cities. |
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Carter says meeting with Hamas
‘very important’ to Middle East peace -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (CNN) — Former U.S. President Jimmy Carter’s role in any possible meeting with Hamas leaders during his upcoming Mideast trip will be as a peace promoter, not as a negotiator for the U.S. government, he said in an interview that aired Sunday. Speaking on ABC News’ “This Week,” Carter shrugged off criticism from U.S. Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice that a meeting with Hamas would not help U.S. peace efforts.”I’ve been meeting with Hamas leaders for years,” Carter said. “It’s very important that at least someone meet with Hamas leaders to express their views.” Appearing on the same program, National Security Adviser Stephen Hadley said a meeting between Carter and Hamas leaders would send a mixed message to the group considered a terrorist organization by the United States and Israel. “It really undermines President (Mahmoud)
Abbas and the government of Prime Minister (Salam) Fayyad at
a very critical time.” |
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Italian vote could return
Berlusconi to power -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ROME, Italy (CNN) — Italians began voting Sunday in snap general elections that could bring the return of a familiar face in Italian politics: former Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi. Balloting was set to continue through Monday to determine who will lead Italy’s 63rd government since the end of World War II. The charismatic billionaire, representing the center right, is running against former Rome Mayor Walter Veltroni of the center left. They are the main contenders among 32 candidates vying to replace Romano Prodi, who stepped down as prime minister in January. Though Berlusconi and Veltroni are on opposite
sides of the political ring, they espouse such similar policies
that Newsweek magazine this month dubbed them “Veltrusconi”
and published an eerie photo montage combining their faces. |
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DNC to file lawsuit over McCain's
refusal of public financing -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- WASHINGTON (AP) — Democratic Party officials want a federal judge to order an investigation into whether Sen. John McCain violated election laws by withdrawing from public financing, saying federal regulators are too weak to act on their own. A lawsuit against the Federal Election Commission, to be filed Monday in U.S. District Court, questions the agency's ability to enforce the law and review McCain's decision to opt out of the system. The Republican presidential candidate, who had been entitled to $5.8 million in federal funds for the primary campaign, decided earlier this year to give up that money so he could avoid strict spending limits between now and the GOP's national convention in September. During a conference call with reporters Sunday, DNC officials said the FEC is unable to act because four of its six seats are vacant. They want a judge to either order the FEC to begin an immediate review, or allow the Democratic Party to file a lawsuitagainst McCain's campaign challenging his decision. Tom McMahon, the party's executive director, said "there is a compelling public interest in determining whether Senator McCain agreed to participate in the matching funds program so he could get a loan for his campaign, then violated the terms of that agreement so he could ignore the spending cap and raise unlimited money from lobbyists and special interests." read at source> http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/200....blic-financing/
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Clinton unveils anti-crime
plan -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- * Story Highlights Decrease font Decrease font PHILADELPHIA, Pennsylvania (AP) -- Sen.
Hillary Clinton is proposing to spend $4 billion a year on anti-crime
measures, including programs meant to reduce the number of ex-convicts
who return to prison. Sen. Hillary Clinton is proposing new measures to tackle the nation's crime. The money also would help communities hire more police officers and "community-oriented prosecutors." Under the New York senator's plan, detailed Friday in a speech in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, states would compete for $1 billion in annual grants to combat recidivism. It would "promote tough but fair" changes to probation practices and to existing programs meant to steer non-violent drug offenders away from prison, her presidential campaign said in an outline provided early Friday. The goal is to make punishment more certain for those who violate their probation, while also enhancing efforts to help former drug users stay clean and thereby avoid prison, campaign aides said. read at source> http://www.cnn.com/2008/POLITICS/04/11/clinton.crime.ap/index.html
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Olmert, Abbas hold talks on
Gaza -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- JERUSALEM (CNN) — Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert and Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas met Sunday in Jerusalem to discuss the situation in Gaza, with Abbas calling for Israel to allow more supplies into the territory, the chief Palestinian negotiator told CNN. Abbas told Olmert that he fully backs Egyptian efforts to reach a cease-fire between Israel and Hamas leaders in Gaza, according to negotiator Saeb Erakat. Abbas also called for humanitarian aid for the residents of Gaza, including supplies of medication and fuel, Erakat said. Olmert reiterated that he will not allow a humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza. They also reviewed the permanent status negotiations. Olmert and Abbas met last Monday for the
first time in nearly two months, recommiting to a U.S.-sponsored
push to achieve a peace agreement by the end of the year. Abbas
also is scheduled to meet President Bush on April 24 at the White
House. |
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DNC sues FEC in effort to
block McCain spending -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- WASHINGTON (CNN) — The Democratic Party on Monday filed a lawsuit against the Federal Elections Committee seeking to force the group to investigate whether John McCain has violated federal spending limits for his primary campaign. The lawsuit, filed in U.S. District Court in Washington, is the latest move by the Democratic National Committee that seeks to prove the Arizona senator locked himself into campaign spending limits earlier this year when he used the prospect of $6 million in federal matching funds as collateral for a December bank loan to his campaign. The DNC first filed a complaint with the FEC in February, arguing then that McCain should be forced to accept the matching funds — and the spending limits that come with it. – From CNN’s Alexander Mooney |
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New U.S. Embassy a city inside
Baghdad -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The huge complex is in Iraq, but some say apart from it. By SUSAN TAYLOR MARTIN, Times Senior Correspondent read at source> http://www.sptimes.com/2007/09/30/Worldandnation/New_US_Embassy_a_city.shtml
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FRIDAY, APRIL 11, 2008 --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
First Vote of the Week…
Last Vote Predicted…
Monday 6:30 p.m.
Legislative Program - 51600 | Floor Information - 57400 | Whip Information - 63210 MONDAY, APRIL 14, 2008 The House will meet at 12:30 p.m. for morning hour debate and 2:00 p.m. for legislative business. Votes will be postponed until 6:30 p.m.
Suspensions (7 Bills): 1) H.Res. 886 - Expressing sympathy to
the victims and families of the tragic acts of violence in Colorado
Springs, Colorado and Arvada, Colorado (Rep. Lamborn - Oversight
and Government Reform) 2) H.Res. 994 - Expressing support for
designation of a National Glanzmann's Thrombasthenia Awareness
Day (Rep. Broun - Oversight and Government Reform) 3) H.R. 5517 - To designate the facility
of the United States Postal Service located at 7231 FM 1960 in
Humble, Texas, as the "Texas Military Veterans Post Office".
(Rep. Poe - Oversight and Government Reform) 4) H.R. 4881 - Contracting and Tax Accountability
Act of 2007 (Rep. Ellsworth - Oversight and Government Reform) 5) H.R. 3548 - Plain Language in Government
Communications Act of 2007 (Rep. Braley - Oversight and Government
Reform) 6) H.Res. 259 - Honoring and recognizing
the work of the Meals On Wheels Association of America, its member
senior nutrition programs throughout the country, and their annual
March For Meals campaigns (Rep. LoBiondo – Education and
Labor) 7) H.Res. 1097 - Expressing support for
the designation of the month of April 2008, as National Child
Abuse Prevention Month to provide attention to the tragic circumstances
that face some of our Nation's children on a daily basis and
to underscore our commitment to preventing child abuse and neglect
so that all children can live in safety and security (Rep. Courtney
– Education and Labor)
TUESDAY, APRIL 15, 2008 AND THE BALANCE OF THE WEEK On Tuesday, the House will meet at 10:30 a.m. for morning hour debate and 12:00 p.m. for legislative business. On Wednesday, the House will meet at 10:00 a.m. for legislative business. On Thursday, the House will meet at 8:30 a.m. and recess immediately to allow for the Former Members’ Association annual meeting; and will reconvene at approximately 10:00 a.m. for legislative business after the meeting is concluded. On Friday, no votes are expected in the House.
Suspensions (7 Bills): 1) H.R. 4056 - The Federal Law Enforcement
Officers Congressional Badge of Bravery Act of 2008 (Rep. Ellsworth
– Judiciary) 2) H.Res. 1053 -National Crime Victims'
Rights Week Act of 2007 (Rep. Costa – Judiciary) 3) H.Res. 1095 - Commemorating the anniversary
of the Fair Housing Act (Green, A. (TX) – Judiciary) 4) H.R. 5570 - Religious Worker Visa Extension
Act of 2008 (Rep. Lofgren – Judiciary) 5) H.R. 5036 - Emergency Assistance for
Secure Elections Act of 2008 (Rep. Holt – House Administration) 6) H.R. 5493 - To provide that the usual
day for paying salaries in or under the House of Representatives
may be established by regulations of the Committee on House Administration
(Rep. Brady (PA) – House Administration) 7) H.Res. 1068 - To permit membership in
the exercise facility established for employees of the House
of Representatives and in the House Staff Fitness Program to
be made available to other Federal employees who are assigned
to official duty at the House of Representatives and for other
purposes. (Rep. Brady (PA) – House Administration)
H.R. 2634 - Jubilee Act for Responsible
Lending and Expanded Debt Cancellation of 2007 (Rep. Frank -
Financial Services) (Subject to a Rule)
H.R. 5719 - Taxpayer Assistance and Simplification
Act of 2008 (Rep. Rangel - Ways and Means) (Subject to a Rule)
H.R. 5715 - The Ensuring Continued Access
to Student Loans Act of 2008 (Rep. George Miller (CA) –
Education and Labor) (Subject to a Rule)
H.R. 2537 - To amend the Federal Water
Pollution Control Act relating to Beach Monitoring. (Rep. Pallone
– Transportation and Infrastructure)
* Conference Reports may be brought up at any time. * Motions to go to Conference should they become available. * Possible Motions to Instruct Conferees. |
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Maine Senate gives initial
OK to minimum wage hike -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://news.mainetoday.com/updates/025267.html
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Senate sends House farm bill
counter-offer -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://www.brownfieldnetwork.com/gestalt....F0DC256E388D60F
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Senate Confirms 5th Circuit
Nominee, Four District Judges -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://www.cltmag.com/senate-confirms-5t....ict-judges.html
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DNC Delegate Caucus -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://www.sfstation.com/dnc-delegate-caucus-e304611
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Sunday Delegate Caucuses Bring
Renewed Energy to California Democrats -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://www.camajorityreport.com/index.ph....aid=2994&ptid=9
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US Senate Passes Housing Bill
For Servicemen, Veterans -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://www.allheadlinenews.com/articles/7010624139
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Guest Opinion: Obama could
boost youth vote to new high -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://www.billingsgazette.net/articles/2008/04/13/opinion/guest/30-brown.txt
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Louisiana Senate Poll: Landrieu
in command -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://www.mydd.com/story/2008/4/13/135428/282
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FLOOR SCHEDULE FOR MONDAY,
APRIL 14, 2008 --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
House Meets At…
Last Vote Predicted…
2:00 p.m.: Legislative Business
Unlimited “One Minutes” Per Side 7:00 p.m.
Votes will be postponed until 6:30 p.m.
Suspensions (7 Bills): 1) H.Res. 886 - Expressing sympathy to
the victims and families of the tragic acts of violence in Colorado
Springs, Colorado and Arvada, Colorado (Rep. Lamborn - Oversight
and Government Reform) 2) H.Res. 994 - Expressing support for
designation of a National Glanzmann's Thrombasthenia Awareness
Day (Rep. Broun - Oversight and Government Reform) 3) H.R. 5517 - To designate the facility
of the United States Postal Service located at 7231 FM 1960 in
Humble, Texas, as the "Texas Military Veterans Post Office".
(Rep. Poe - Oversight and Government Reform) 4) H.R. 4881 - Contracting and Tax Accountability
Act of 2007 (Rep. Ellsworth - Oversight and Government Reform) 5) H.R. 3548 - Plain Language in Government
Communications Act of 2007 (Rep. Braley - Oversight and Government
Reform) 6) H.Res. 259 - Honoring and recognizing
the work of the Meals On Wheels Association of America, its member
senior nutrition programs throughout the country, and their annual
March For Meals campaigns (Rep. LoBiondo – Education and
Labor) 7) H.Res. 1097 - Expressing support for
the designation of the month of April 2008, as National Child
Abuse Prevention Month to provide attention to the tragic circumstances
that face some of our Nation's children on a daily basis and
to underscore our commitment to preventing child abuse and neglect
so that all children can live in safety and security (Rep. Courtney
– Education and Labor) |
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Obama Seeks Guam's Support
To Boost Presidential Bid -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://www.pacificnewscenter.com/link.as....eyword=&sidate=
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DNC Wants Court to Force Action
Against McCain on Public Money -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://blogs.abcnews.com/politicalradar/2008/04/dnc-wants-court.html
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Time for candidates to address
US debt and deficit -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://www.philly.com/inquirer/opinion/2....nd_deficit.html
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Obama, Clinton to Tackle Faith,
Moral Issues -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://www.christianpost.com/article/200....oral_Issues.htm
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Organization hosts lecture
on Islam and democracy -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://www.thetraveleronline.com/home/ne....-3321179
.shtml |
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Emir opens Democracy Forum -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://www.thepeninsulaqatar.com/Display....0804144143.xml
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You've probably heard about
the latest dust-up in the Democratic race. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- A few days ago, Barack spoke about the frustrations that working people in this country are feeling and said what we all know is true: that many people are bitter and angry because they believe their government isn't listening to them. You and I both know that the hope of changing that reality is what drives the unprecedented support for this campaign from ordinary people in every part of the country. But our opponents have been spinning the media and peddling fake outrage around the clock. John McCain's campaign, which will continue the George Bush economic policies that have devastated the middle class, called Barack out of touch and elitist. And Hillary Clinton, who is the candidate who said lobbyists represent real people, didn't just echo the Republican candidate's talking points: she actually used the very same words to pile on with more attacks. These comments show just how out of touch Senator McCain and Senator Clinton are with the reality of what's happening in this election. We've built the broadest campaign of ordinary people in the history of presidential politics -- and more people across this country have voted for Barack Obama than either one of them. And we've done it the right way: our campaign is funded by everyday people giving $5 or more. That's distinctly different from Senator McCain and Senator Clinton, who both rely on money from Washington lobbyists and special interest PACs. There's nothing elitist about a movement of more than a million people standing up for a different kind of politics. If you're fed up with these kinds of tired attacks, you can do something about it right now. We're setting a goal of 1.5 million people giving to this campaign by May 6th. Right now, one of those million people who have already given to our campaign is waiting to match your first donation. No matter what amount you choose to give, our system will match you with a supporter who has promised to match someone's first donation today. You can see for yourself exactly what kind of movement this is. When you make your donation, you'll see the name and town of the person just like you who matched your gift. You'll also see a note from them with their story and why they gave, if they chose to write one. You'll double the impact of your donation if you make a matching gift right now. Will you help fight back now? https://donate.barackobama.com/match Barack Obama's own life and story are reflected in the character of this grassroots campaign. He was raised by a single mother with help from his grandparents. He has a family he loves, not long ago finished paying off his student loans, and he's doing what he can to help change this country. That's what he's done for his entire career. After graduating, he became a community organizer, working with people in Chicago who -- like many people across the country right now -- felt left behind by their leaders. When you make a matching donation, you'll be paired with someone with that same sense that it's time for a government that is responsible to the people for a change. Someone is waiting to hear your story, and to share theirs with you. If you can support the campaign at this crucial moment, you'll be able to share your story about why you're committed to this campaign. And because this is a matching donation, your gift of $25 will be doubled by another supporter. You'll have twice the impact and help reach our unprecedented 1.5 million-person goal. Make a matching donation now and be a part of history: https://donate.barackobama.com/match The attacks from the Clinton campaign -- on Barack Obama himself, and on supporters like you -- can be expected to increase as her chances of winning dwindle further. A few weeks ago, one of her top aides tried to diminish our success by referring to the places we've won as "boutique" states and to our supporters as the "latte-sipping crowd." That means 30 states and territories -- twice as many as Senator Clinton has won -- qualify as "boutique." And the nearly 15 million people who have voted for us (again, more than Senator Clinton) must drink a lot of latte. It's clear that Senator Clinton will continue to say or do anything as her campaign gets more and more negative. But 1.5 million donors will be an astonishing and undeniable signal that it isn't the elites fueling this movement -- it's the American people. That starts with you. Thank you, David David Plouffe |
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C-SPAN Daily Alert -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- C-SPAN Highlights Tonight: Tomorrow: Tonight: Tomorrow: Tonight: Tomorrow: Tonight: Tomorrow: * Sens. McCain & Obama at the AP Annual
Meeting - Tonight on C-SPAN at 10pm ET * Newspaper Articles & Viewer Calls * There ought to be a law — and now maybe there will be. The House was scheduled to vote Monday on a bill that would require the federal government to use plain English, understandable to ordinary Americans...- Full Story at www.c-span.org/capitolspotlight/ * When was the constitutional amendment
permitting a federal income tax ratified? - Answer at www.c-span.org/capitolspotlight/
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Earlier this month, we wrapped
up a bus tour of Pennsylvania, and it was an amazing trip. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- For six days, we visited factories and schools -- even a bowling alley -- and talked to folks from Pittsburgh to Philadelphia about the issues affecting their lives. The April 22nd primary in Pennsylvania is our biggest remaining contest, and supporters from around the country are taking the trip this week to help build our movement there. Our team put together a video of the bus tour. Check it out -- then sign up to go to Pennsylvania and help Get Out The Vote this week: Video: PA bus tour http://my.barackobama.com/CometoPA Hearing these stories confirmed something you and I already know -- our great country is facing some serious challenges. But it also showed me that what unites us is much stronger than what divides us. We all believe that people who are willing and able to work should be able to earn a decent wage. We agree that folks should never go bankrupt just because they, or their loved ones, get sick. And we know how important it is that we leave a livable planet for the next generation. None of this is going to be easy -- but if we come together as Americans to pursue our common goals, all of it will be possible. It will be possible if people like you commit to make a difference right now. That's why I'm asking you get involved in our campaign in Pennsylvania in this crucial final week before the primary. Sign up now: http://my.barackobama.com/CometoPA This election isn't going to depend on the polls or the pundits. It's going to depend on you -- and your vision for where we want to take this country. I hope I can count on your help in Pennsylvania. Thank you, Barack Obama |
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FLOOR SCHEDULE FOR TUESDAY,
APRIL 15, 2008 --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
House Meets At…
Last Vote Predicted…
10:30 a.m.: Morning Hour 12:00 p.m.: Legislative Business
Unlimited “One Minutes” Per Side 5:00 – 6:00 p.m.
Suspensions (7 Bills): 1) H.R. 4056 - The Federal Law Enforcement
Officers Congressional Badge of Bravery Act of 2008 (Rep. Ellsworth
– Judiciary) 2) H.Res. 1053 - National Crime Victims'
Rights Week Act of 2007 (Rep. Costa – Judiciary) 3) H.Res. 1095 - Commemorating the anniversary
of the Fair Housing Act (Green, A. (TX) – Judiciary) 4) H.R. 5570 - Religious Worker Visa Extension
Act of 2008 (Rep. Lofgren – Judiciary) 5) H.R. 5036 - Emergency Assistance for
Secure Elections Act of 2008 (Rep. Holt – House Administration) 6) H.R. 5493 - To provide that the usual
day for paying salaries in or under the House of Representatives
may be established by regulations of the Committee on House Administration
(Rep. Brady (PA) – House Administration) 7) H.Res. 1068 - To permit membership in
the exercise facility established for employees of the House
of Representatives and in the House Staff Fitness Program to
be made available to other Federal employees who are assigned
to official duty at the House of Representatives and for other
purposes. (Rep. Brady (PA) – House Administration)
H.R. 5719 - Taxpayer Assistance and Simplification
Act of 2008 (Rep. Rangel - Ways and Means) (Subject to a Rule)
Postponed Suspension Vote (2 Bills) 1) H.R. 5517 - To designate the facility
of the United States Postal Service located at 7231 FM 1960 in
Humble, Texas, as the "Texas Military Veterans Post Office".
(Rep. Poe - Oversight and Government Reform) 2) H.Res. 1097 - Expressing support for
the designation of the month of April 2008, as National Child
Abuse Prevention Month to provide attention to the tragic circumstances
that face some of our Nation's children on a daily basis and
to underscore our commitment to preventing child abuse and neglect
so that all children can live in safety and security (Rep. Courtney
– Education and Labor) |
|
Time, date set for Democratic
Senate debate -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://www.nebraska.tv/Global/story.asp?S=8165374&nav=menu605_2
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Policy Roundup: US Senate
Passes Incentives -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://www.greentechmedia.com/articles/p....tives--779.html
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Senate: A Power Base -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://www.cqpolitics.com/weeklyreport-000002703293
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FEC Nominee Withdraws As Stalemate
in Senate Continues -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://www.cqpolitics.com/news-000002703259
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Senate Intelligence Panel
Wants New Appropriations -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://www.cqpolitics.com/cqmidday-000002703230
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Democrats Hold Convention
in Ohio County -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://www.wtrf.com/story.cfm?func=viewstory&storyid=37212
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Overseas Democrats hold convention
in Canada -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://www.reuters.com/article/politicsNews/idUSN1223581620080413
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Democrats put faith front-and-center
on the campaign trail -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://rss.cnn.com/~r/rss/cnn_politicalticker/~3/269625926/
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California Democrats vote
to send 241 delegates to convention -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://www.mercurynews.com/breakingnews/ci_8913620
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Sen. Kerry in Hudson to rally
Democrats -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://www.metrowestdailynews.com/news/x192959421
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Presidential Candidates on
Gun Control -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://ap.google.com/article/ALeqM5jrchK3I6zZ2L-8tmcxXV3aDSqLdwD90258R04
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No candidate can guarantee
victory. But throughout this campaign, I have made one promise
to you, and I intend to keep it. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- As long as I have your support, as long as you are fighting by my side, I will work as hard as I can to win. Here is the challenge we face. With the Obama campaign outspending us 3-to-1, the polls are tightening in Pennsylvania, and we have exactly one week left to get our message out. Before the Super Tuesday primaries on February 5, I told you that if you reached out to support my campaign, you would see the results -- and you did. I told you we could win Texas and Ohio on March 4 with your help -- and you put us over the top. I need your help right now to win in Pennsylvania, and this race is close enough that the decision you make could be the difference between winning and losing. Contribute now to help us close the spending gap and win in Pennsylvania. I've talked, listened, and learned my way across the Keystone state these past few weeks, and I've met people who are optimistic, hard-working, and ready for a president who stands up and fights for them every single day. I've felt such a deep connection to the people I've met in Pennsylvania, and I'm proud of the campaign we're running here. But we are still being outspent 3-to-1, and I need your help to close that gap if we want to win. In the next seven days, thousands of people will be making their final decision in the Democratic primary, and we must make sure they hear our message. We can't let our voices be drowned out by the Obama campaign's limitless spending. Contribute today to help me make sure our
message is heard across Pennsylvania in the next seven days. Thank you so much for doing everything you can do to keep our campaign driving forward. Sincerely, Hillary |
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C-SPAN Daily Alert -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- C-SPAN Highlights Tonight: Tomorrow: Tonight: Tomorrow: Tonight: Tomorrow: Tonight: Tomorrow: * Sen. McCain (R-AZ) on the Economy at
Carnegie Mellon - Tonight, C-SPAN, 11:10pm ET * Newspaper Articles ********************************************************************** * House Minority Whip Roy Blunt on Tuesday blasted the notion of splitting the upcoming war supplemental bill into separate funding measures for Iraq and Afghanistan...- Full Story at www.c-span.org/capitolspotlight/ * What was Virginia Sen. John W. Warner’s
winning margin over Democrat Mark Warner in 1996? - Answer at
www.c-span.org/capitolspotlight/ |
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In the last 24 hours we saw
renewed attacks from Senator McCain and Senator Clinton. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The same John McCain who voted to extend the Bush tax cuts for the wealthiest few said I was "out of touch" when I spoke about the frustrations that working people in this country are feeling. Maybe that's to be expected from John McCain. But I was disappointed to hear the exact same talking points from my Democratic colleague, Hillary Clinton. When a candidate who believes lobbyists represent "real people" says that I'm out of touch, that's when you know politics is being played. But in the last 24 hours we've also heard from people like you. We asked some of the 1.3 million people who have already donated to this movement for change to share their story and promise to match your first donation to the campaign. Here are some of the people waiting to match your donation: Rick from Florida matched a donation of $25, writing: I am a typical American just like you. I've served in the military, I work hard for a living and I want what's best for my country, not just me. I've seen what's happened over the last years and I am deeply saddened, worried and, yes, even bitter. But I see something in Barack Obama I have never seen in a presidential candidate in my own 45 years and the hope and inspiration I feel right now brings tears even as I write this to you. We don't get many chances like this. I don't have much to give but I give what I can because it's important and I ask that you please consider joining me with a few dollars that, added to the small contributions from millions of people like you and I, can be what it takes to really change things. Thanks in advance! Eve from Oregon matched a donation of $50, writing: I'm thrilled that Barack recognizes how frustrated so many of us are by the politics of fear and cynicism we've seen these past seven years! But what really sets him apart is that he's not afraid to speak the truth and say what's not supposed to be spoken - that yes, we can love our country but also be frustrated with it's direction and leadership. Thank you for making a donation to this amazing...campaign! Yes, we can! See for yourself what kind of movement this is. Make a matching donation now: https://donate.barackobama.com/match When we started this campaign, we said we were going to do something different. We said we weren't going to take money from Washington lobbyists and PACs. And the cynics said we would never be able to compete against the status quo. But what the cynics didn't anticipate was you. They didn't understand that people like Rick, Eve, and you were tired of a politics that was about tearing each other down instead of lifting this country up. And they didn't understand that you were going to finance this campaign with contributions of $5, $25 and $50 at a time. There's nothing elitist about the largest grassroots campaign in the history of our country -- and you can prove that right now. Make a matching donation of $25: https://donate.barackobama.com/match Thank you for all that you're doing to change our country. Barack |
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Hoyer Statement on the Taxpayer
Assistance -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- “Today, as millions of Americans prepare to file their federal income tax returns by midnight, many will be confounded, confused and, yes, perhaps even cranky because of our unbelievably complicated tax code. “Our tax code is a maze of complexity that creates confusion and, yes, unfairness. In fact, between 2001 and 2006 – when Republicans controlled the Congress and the White House – they added more than 10,000 pages to the Internal Revenue Code and regulations. It now takes people an average of 34 hours to complete a 1040 long form. And, it’s no wonder that 62 percent of Americans rely on a tax professional to prepare their returns. “The Democratic Majority has been focused for years on making our tax code fairer and simpler – and doing so in a fiscally responsible way. But this issue also demands presidential leadership. “We know that from experience. The last real tax reform occurred 22 years ago when President Reagan and Dan Rostenkowski, then Chairman of the Ways and Means Committee, came together to streamline our tax code. “When a new President takes office in January 2009, I believe that this should be an issue near the top of the agenda – particularly an effort to reform the dreaded alternative minimum tax. “Now today, we will consider the ‘Taxpayer
Assistance and Simplification Act,’ which makes small, but
important reforms to our tax code. Among other things, this bill
will: “Just this morning, the Washington Post reported that the Internal Revenue Service expects to lose more than $37 million by using private debt collectors to pursue tax scofflaws. That’s right. Private companies hired to collect tax revenue that the IRS does not have the resources to pursue actually cost the federal government – i.e., taxpayers – more than they bring in. “Furthermore, let me say that there clearly is something wrong with our tax code when the costs of non-compliance – the so-called ‘tax gap’ – is an estimated $345 billion a year. The reality is, this tax gap is only going to be narrowed and closed when we get serious about real tax reform. “But until that day, we must do what we can to make our tax laws fairer and simpler. This legislation is an important step in that regard. “I urge my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to vote for this bill, and, in the months ahead, to come together – like we did in 1986 – in support of real tax reform.”
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Some Democrats know trade
incentives work -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://www.delawareonline.com/apps/pbcs.....03/1004/OPINION
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Democrats blast Mukasey for
9/11 call remarks -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2008/04/15/MND7105C5F.DTL
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Democrats head to Pennsylvania
for critical debate -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2008/apr/16/hillaryclinton.barackobama
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A recent report by the Associated
Press has reveal -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- We've seen this before -- we know they're already launching attacks on Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama. And while they're tearing them down, they'll try to spin John McCain to the American people. It's a $120 million makeover fund, designed to make everyone forget about the last eight years of John McCain, George Bush, the war, the economy, Katrina, and a stunning lack of competency. We can't let John McCain and the RNC get away with it -- Hillary and Barack need us to fight back while they're trying to win the nomination. That's why I'm making an urgent request for you to help us with a contribution today -- we have to keep up. They've got a head start, but we can stay competitive if you make a contribution right now: http://www.democrats.org/competitive This $120 million fund is about more than just money and negative ads though -- it goes to the core of what John McCain pretends to be. As a "maverick reformer," he has repeatedly claimed to be a crusader for campaign finance reform, but he has shown little regard for campaign finance law. At the same time, he's staffed the highest levels of his campaign with Washington lobbyists, with one of them going so far as to work out of McCain's campaign bus. I emailed at the end of February about McCain's decision to break the law and unilaterally withdraw from primary matching funds. We filed a complaint with the FEC that many of you signed your support for, but it has been unable to act. So yesterday, we sued the FEC to force an investigation into whether McCain has violated campaign finance law. We refuse to let his campaign go unchecked, and we'll do whatever it takes to make sure he is held accountable. It takes a lot to raise $120 million, but John McCain's staff of lobbyists knows they can count on checks from their friends and special interests. They can't raise the money they need without it. So this is what we're up against -- a $120 million fundraising push, an opponent who's already broken campaign finance law, a team of lobbyists who have plenty of friends to help them get the cash they need to trash our candidates, and an FEC that is unable to act on our complaint. We need to stay competitive, and the only way to do that is for you to make a contribution right now: http://www.democrats.org/competitive Your contribution means we stay competitive. It means we can go out and respond to the Republican attacks while Hillary and Barack work to become our party's nominee. And your support means we can show the Republicans that, as in 2005, 2006 and 2007, Democrats plan to compete everywhere -- and win. Thanks for all that you do, Howard Dean |
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FLOOR SCHEDULE FOR WEDNESDAY,
APRIL 16, 2008 --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
House Meets At…
Last Vote Predicted…
10:00 a.m.: Legislative Business
Fifteen “One Minutes” Per Side Evening
Suspension (1 Bill): 1) H.R. ___ - To amend Public Law 110-196 to provide for a temporary extension of programs authorized by the Farm Security and Rural Investment Act of 2002 beyond April 18, 2008. (Rep. Peterson – Agriculture)
H.R. 2634 - Jubilee Act for Responsible
Lending and Expanded Debt Cancellation of 2007 (Rep. Waters -
Financial Services) (Subject to a Rule)
H.R. 2537 - To amend the Federal Water
Pollution Control Act relating to Beach Monitoring. (Rep. Pallone
– Transportation and Infrastructure)
H.R. 5715 - The Ensuring Continued Access
to Student Loans Act of 2008 (Rep. George Miller (CA) –
Education and Labor) (Subject to a Rule)
Postponed Suspension Vote (1 Bill) 1) H.Res. 1097 - Expressing support for
the designation of the month of April 2008, as National Child
Abuse Prevention Month to provide attention to the tragic circumstances
that face some of our Nation's children on a daily basis and
to underscore our commitment to preventing child abuse and neglect
so that all children can live in safety and security (Rep. Courtney
– Education |
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Democrats Looking for End
of Nomination Fight -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://www.truthnews.net/daily/2008040336.htm
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Democrats accuse Republicans
of illegal campaign activity -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- By Congressional Producer Deirdre Walsh WASHINGTON (CNN) — The Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee is accusing the House Republicans’ campaign committee of illegally coordinating advertising with an outside group in a competitive Louisiana special election. The DCCC, which works to elect House Democrats, filed a complaint with the Federal Election Commission Wednesday arguing there’s evidence the National Republican Congressional Committee was According to campaign finance laws, it
is illegal for party committees to coordinate with outside groups
within 90 days of a federal election. |
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Two N.C. superdelegates announce
they’ll back Obama -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (CNN) — Two superdelegates from North Carolina — Reps. David Price and Mel Watt — announced Wednesday their endorsement of Democratic hopeful Sen. Barack Obama as the party’s nominee in a conference call ahead of Obama’s visit to the state Thursday. Obama now has six North Carolina superdelegates in his corner, including North Carolina Democratic Party Vice-Chair Dannie Montgomery, Rep. G.K. Butterfield, former Democratic Party director Everett Ward, and former Watt staffer Joyce Brayboy, a lobbyist. Sen. Hillary Clinton has the backing of North Carolina superdelegate Susan Burgess, a Charlotte city councilwoman. – From CNN’s Rebecca Sinderbrand
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Clinton, Obama set to debate
in Philadelphia -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (CNN) — Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama will face each other on the same stage Wednesday night for the first time in nearly two months. The presidential debate at the National Constitution Center in Philadelphia comes just six days before Pennsylvania’s primary, and for both Democratic candidates there is a lot at stake. This will be the 21st Democratic debate, and while that seems like a lot, a lot has happened since the last time Clinton and Obama faced off, in Ohio in late February. At that time Obama was riding an 11-contest winning streak. But the senator from New York won comeback kid honors once again when she took three of the four primaries held on March 4. But Obama still comfortably leads Clinton when it comes to states won, pledged delegates to the Democratic convention, and the overall popular vote in the primaries and caucuses held so far this campaign season. So what Clinton needs is to change the momentum in the battle for the Democratic nomination, and the best way to do that is to win big in Pennsylvania. But a new CNN Poll of Polls in the Keystone State puts Clinton’s lead at just 5 points over Obama, down from a double-digit lead two weeks ago. –From Paul Steinhauser, CNN Deputy
Political Director |
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Carter expected to meet with
Hamas officials -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- CAIRO, Egypt (CNN) — Former U.S. President Jimmy Carter is expected to meet with two senior Hamas officials in the Egyptian capital on Thursday, an encounter he calls a necessary step toward resolving the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. But the expected meeting has rankled the Israeli and U.S. governments, which say it runs counter to their stated policies of not negotiating with terrorists. After talks with Egyptian President Hosni
Mubarak, Carter is scheduled to confer with senior Hamas officials
Mahmoud al-Zahar and Saeed Seyam, who traveled from Gaza to Cairo
on Wednesday. Carter had requested Israeli permission to go into
Gaza, but was refused. |
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Senate to vote on investigation
in altered earmark -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- From Congressional Producer Ted Barrett WASHINGTON (CNN) — The Senate may seek a federal investigation into a 2005 earmark on a highway funding bill that was mysteriously altered after Congress approved the measure but before President Bush signed it. The $10 million earmark, originally designated for improvements to Interstate 75 in Lee and Collier Counties in Florida, was changed to direct the money to build an interchange in Lee County, an apparently violation of congressional rules. The Senate is expected to vote Thursday
whether to direct the Justice Department to investigate “allegations
of impropriety” and to “ascertain if a violation of
Federal criminal law has occurred.” |
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Democrats accuse Republicans
of illegal campaign activity -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- By Congressional Producer Deirdre Walsh WASHINGTON (CNN) — The Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee is accusing the House Republicans’ campaign committee of illegally coordinating advertising with an outside group in a competitive Louisiana special election. The DCCC, which works to elect House Democrats, filed a complaint with the Federal Election Commission Wednesday arguing there’s evidence the National Republican Congressional Committee was According to campaign finance laws, it
is illegal for party committees to coordinate with outside groups
within 90 days of a federal election. |
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Presidential candidates must
address airline industry woes -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://www.vindy.com/news/2008/apr/16/pr....ddress-airline/
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Presidential candidates support
shield law -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://thehill.com/campaign-2008/preside....2008-04-15.html
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I'm going to give you the
same advice I give to Hillary: block out the distractions --
the skeptics, the media coverage, the beltway chatter -- and
keep your eyes on the prize. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- With the news media constantly poring over the minutiae of the campaign, I make sure Hillary never forgets to stay focused on what matters: telling every last American about her vision, her experience, and her commitment to bringing real change to people's lives. Let the press worry about the shifting polls and the daily back-and-forth. As long as Hillary stands up for the values we share -- and as long as you stand up for her -- she's going to win this race. It's a tight race, whether you're counting delegates or total votes, the kind where one big victory can shift the momentum. We've got a race like that coming up in Pennsylvania in just six days, and your immediate action will make a difference. Contribute now to help Hillary win big in Pennsylvania on Tuesday. We know Senator Obama's strategy: spend, spend, and spend some more. His campaign is hoping their spending is enough to win the primary and bring this race to a close. But they weren't counting on the incredible connection Hillary has made with Pennsylvanians or the remarkable support you have shown her. Tonight, Hillary will share the stage with Senator Obama in a debate, and Pennsylvania voters will consider their final decisions over the next six critical days. If you contribute to Hillary's campaign today, you can be assured of two things: it will go right back out the door to help her win, and it will make a difference in this close race. Contribute today for our Pennsylvania victory. Don't forget: stay focused on what's important, and we'll celebrate victory together. Thank you, Bill Clinton |
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Hoyer: American Families Are
Hurting As We Continue to Pour Resources into Iraq -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- “Last November, I joined Majority Leader Reid, Senator Schumer, and Congresswoman Maloney as the JEC released a report about the costs of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan to the American economy. Since then, the Administration has done nothing to rein in the costs in Iraq, even as it insists we short-change domestic priorities. “The war in Iraq has now entered its sixth year, with no end in sight. In fact, President Bush told General Petraeus just last week that he will 'have all the time he needs,' despite the fact that the security situation is deteriorating, political reconciliation has not occurred, and the Iraqi government is spending little of its own money on reconstruction. “As we continue to pour more resources into Iraq, the economy has taken a serious down turn. And Americans are making the connection. 252,000 jobs have been lost in the first three months of this year. Over the past seven years, gas prices have more than doubled, college costs have increased more than a third, and foreclosure rates have hit a record high. “The fact is, this war has contributed to driving us into the economic ditch. Some economists, such as Joseph Stiglitz, are predicting that the total cost could reach $2 to $3 trillion – a far cry from the $50 to $60 billion originally predicted by Mitch Daniels, the President’s former Director of OMB. “Furthermore, the President has run this war entirely with borrowed money. The cost is being added to this nation’s debt, leaving our children and grandchildren to pay both the bills and the interest on this mountain of debt. “Despite the state of the economy, this Administration has staunchly opposed domestic spending that would help America’s working families, including children’s healthcare, infrastructure, unemployment benefits, and other critical areas. “Millions of American families are hurting. The Administration must not ignore them – not when it insists we spend billions more in Iraq. It is time to change policy in Iraq, and devote the attention and resources necessary to turning our economy around.”
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C-SPAN Daily Alert -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- C-SPAN Highlights Tonight: Tomorrow: Tonight: Tomorrow: ********************************************************************** Tonight: Tomorrow: Tonight: Tomorrow: ********************************************************************** * Washington Journal: PA Primary Bus Tour
Stop in Altoona - Thurs., C-SPAN, 8:30am ET - LIVE * Newspaper Articles
********************************************************************** * White House budget director Jim Nussle again warned Congress Wednesday not to add domestic spending to a $108.1 billion request for war operations in Iraq and Afghanistan...- Full Story at www.c-span.org/capitolspotlight/ * Which Pennsylvania Republican staged
a late-starting challenge to Barry Goldwater for the 1964 GOP
presidential nomination? - Answer at www.c-span.org/capitolspotlight/
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Hoyer Statement on Climate
Change Remarks -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- “For more than seven years, President Bush’s position on climate change can best be defined as completely insufficient. The Administration has been largely dismissive of the overwhelming need to set a strong policy to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and address the very real and growing threat of global warming to our environment and to our security. “While today’s announcement signals an elevated interest in this urgent issue, it does not erase the Administration’s dismal record nor does it lay forth the bold plan that is needed to achieve our climate change goals. A true commitment to that effort requires far more than what the President is proposing. “Meanwhile, Democrats in Congress have long called for serious and sustained climate change action. In the 110th Congress, we have passed historic legislation to improve automobile fuel efficiency, promote renewable sources of energy and invest in new energy-efficient technologies. In addition, we have proposed legislation to turn back the clock to slow, stabilize and ultimately reverse greenhouse gas emissions, and we urge the Administration to partner with us. “We believe that America must provide strong leadership to combat the global and multi-generational threat that global climate change poses. Our children deserve nothing less.”
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FLOOR SCHEDULE FOR THURSDAY,
APRIL 17, 2008 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FLOOR SCHEDULE FOR THURSDAY, APRIL 17, 2008
House Meets At…
Last Vote Predicted…
10:30 a.m.: Legislative Business
Fifteen “One Minutes” Per Side 2:00 - 3:00 p.m.
The House will meet at 8:30 a.m. and recess immediately to allow for the Former Members’ Association annual meeting; and will reconvene at approximately 10:30 a.m. for legislative business after the meeting is concluded.
H.R. 5715 - The Ensuring Continued Access
to Student Loans Act of 2008 (Rep. George Miller (CA) –
Education and Labor) (Complete Consideration)
· Miller, George (CA)/The Manager’s Amendment (10 minutes) · Petri Amendment (10 minutes) · Castle /Welch Amendment (10 minutes) · Castor Amendment (10 minutes)
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Democrats say Obama more likely
win: poll -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://www.iol.co.za/index.php?set_id=1&....31217569C441352
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New Poll Says Most Democrats
Prefer Obama as Party's Nominee -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://www.voanews.com/english/2008-04-16-voa40.cfm
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Iowa Democrats announce $6.1
billion state budget -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/ap/fn/5705653.html
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Democrats Debate In Philadelphia -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://www.kcrg.com/explorepolitics/?feed=bim&id=17818744
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Pennsylvania Democratic Debate
Tonight on ABC -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The Democratic Debate will air tonight
on ABC |
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Obama: Let’s campaign,
not have more debates -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (CNN) — Sen. Barack Obama on Thursday suggested that he and Democratic rival Sen. Hillary Clinton have debated enough and that he’d rather spend his time campaigning in the closing weeks of the campaign. The two debated Wednesday night in Philadelphia — their final meeting before Tuesday’s primary in Pennsylvania. Clinton has agreed to a debate next week, but Obama has not yet accepted the invitation. At an appearance Thursday in Raleigh, North Carolina, Obama said he has a lot of campaigning to do in a limited amount of time. “I’ll be honest with you, we’ve
now had 21,” he said. “It’s not as if we don’t
know how to do these things. I could deliver Sen. Clinton’s
lines; she could, I’m sure, deliver mine.” |
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Rove asked to testify over
ex-Alabama governor’s prosecution -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- WASHINGTON (CNN) — A House committee Thursday asked former White House political adviser Karl Rove to testify about allegations that Bush administration officials pushed for federal prosecutions of former Alabama Gov. Don Siegelman and other Democrats. House Judiciary Committee leaders said it is “imperative” that Rove answer allegations that he pressed the Justice Department to investigate Siegelman, a Democrat who when indicted was preparing a rematch against Alabama’s Republican governor in 2006. “We look forward to scheduling an early date for your voluntary appearance,” the committee’s Democratic leaders wrote in a letter released Thursday. Rove’s lawyer, Robert Luskin, said
Thursday that President Bush’s onetime political mastermind
“absolutely denies he was in any way involved in the decision
to prosecute Don Siegelman.” |
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Rice to meet next week with
Iraq’s neighbors, except for Iran -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- WASHINGTON (CNN) — U.S. Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice will depart Saturday for next week’s Iraqi neighbors’ conference, but has no plans to meet with Iranian representatives. Iran’s influential role in neighboring Iraq is expected to be at the top of Rice’s agenda on Tuesday at the ministerial meeting in Kuwait. But talks with the Iranians are “not in the plan,” she said Thursday. “The Iranians will be at the meeting; I’m not trying to suggest they won’t be,” she said. “But, no, I don’t have any plans to meet them.” The United States, which has no diplomatic
ties to Iran, accuses Tehran of arming Shiite militias in Iraq. |
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Sunni Arab bloc in Iraq agrees
‘in principle’ to return to al-Maliki government -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- BAGHDAD, Iraq (CNN) — Iraq’s main Sunni Arab political bloc has “agreed in principle” to return to the government, a move that would help shore up a government beset over the last year by walkouts and quarreling, a spokesman said Thursday. Omar Abdul Sattar, spokesman for the Iraqi Accord Front, said Prime Minister Nuri al-Maliki’s military operation in Basra targeting Shiite militants played a big role in persuading the Sunnis to change their position. That operation has been criticized, but
many Sunni Arabs are pleased that the government took a strong
stance against Shiite militants. |
|
Carter diplomacy with Meshaal -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (CNN) — Former U.S. President Jimmy
Carter met Friday with a top Hamas The former president met with Meshaal and
several other lower-level |
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Clinton friend Reich backs
Obama -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (CNN) — Robert Reich, a former Clinton cabinet member and longtime friend of the former president, has formally endorsed Barack Obama's White House bid, saying Friday that "my conscience won't let me be silent any longer." "Although Hillary Clinton has offered solid and sensible policy proposals, Obama's strike me as even more so," Reich wrote on his blog. He served as the Secretary of Labor from 1993-1997 and is currently a professor at UC Berkeley. read at source> http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/
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Last night, Senator Obama
and I had the chance to express some substantive differences
on issues that affect people's lives every day: the war in Iraq,
the mortgage crisis, Social Security, and rising gas prices. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- I know when I stand up at a debate like last night, I'm speaking not just for myself, but for everyone who has supported me in this race. I know I wouldn't be here without you, and I can't tell you how proud I am to stand with you. This race should be decided on the merits of our ideas -- not the size our campaign coffers. This race is still tight because people are responding to our shared values and vision. It's so close that a contribution you make today could be the difference between winning and losing. If you missed the debate last night, click
here to watch my closing statement and contribute today to help
me win.
Thank for all you do. Sincerely, |
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Winning the Catholic vote
could win the election for presidential ... -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://catholicnewsagency.com/new.php?n=12362
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Governor Dean wrote to you
this week about the $12 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- As part of their plan, John McCain will start a "Compassion Tour" next week designed to position him as a different kind of Republican. He'll be going into inner city neighborhoods and economically depressed towns, trying to reach out to voters his party traditionally ignores. Sound familiar? Know any other Republican politicians who have claimed to be a "compassionate conservative"? We've seen this campaign before: a Republican candidate who holds a dangerous and wrong opinion on Iraq, supported by piles of lobbyist and special interest money, who works non-stop to look folksy and compassionate; a Republican candidate who knows nothing about jobs and the economy, fixing health care or a rational foreign policy. We've also seen how it turns out. They're able to use their money to get the White House -- and Americans are left with four years of a dangerous Republican president. We can't let that happen again. We need you to contribute right now so we can counter John McCain's "Compassion Tour," and help fight the $120 million they're going to throw at us. http://www.democrats.org/competitive John McCain is like George Bush in every way. We can't let them take the White House again. Make a contribution today: http://www.democrats.org/competitive Tom McMahon |
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Did you see the debate last
night? -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- If you did, you saw more gotcha politics and distractions than questions about the pressing issues affecting our country. In fact, it took more than 45 minutes before Barack was asked about the economy, health care, or foreign policy. Regrettably, Senator Clinton seemed all too comfortable with that type of debate. She's running a 100% negative campaign in Pennsylvania, taking every opportunity to make personal and discredited attacks against Senator Obama. You can send a message that politics doesn't have to be played this way. Make your first donation today, and someone who's already given will match whatever amount you decide to give. You can double your impact, and you'll even get to see the name and town of the fellow supporter matching your first online gift. Will you make a $25 donation now? https://donate.barackobama.com/match Senator Clinton's false, negative attacks are exactly the kind of say-anything, do-anything politics that the American people are tired of. That's why polls show that the majority of Americans think she's running the most negative campaign, and 58% of voters do not find her honest or trustworthy. Barack Obama wants to end the politics of division and distraction in Washington so we can bring about real change for ordinary Americans. The stakes are too high to play the same old games. More than 1.3 million supporters have responded to Barack's message of change, and with your help we can reach 1.5 million by May 6th. Make a donation of any amount today, and it will be matched by a previous donor who has pledged to double your impact: http://my.barackobama.com/match Thank you for your support, David David Plouffe |
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C-SPAN Daily Alert -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- C-SPAN Highlights Tonight: Tomorrow: Tonight: Tomorrow: ********************************************************************** Tonight:
Tomorrow: Tonight: Tomorrow: ********************************************************************** * Washington Journal: PA Primary Tour in
State College - Fri., C-SPAN, 8:30am ET - LIVE * Newspaper Articles
********************************************************************** * The House on Thursday passed legislation intended to ensure that students can get federally backed loans for school this fall, as lenders faced more bad news...- Full Story at www.c-span.org/capitolspotlight/ * Which Pennsylvania Republican staged a late-starting challenge to Barry Goldwater for the 1964 GOP presidential nomination? - Answer at www.c-span.org/capitolspotlight/ ********************************************************************** * C-SPAN's Campaign 2008 Bus now touring
Pennsylvania. See the schedule at www.c-span.org/schoolbus/schedule_paprimary.asp.
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Senate Asks Federal Investigation
of Mystery Earmark -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pid=20601103&sid=aRKZCjpGZ.2A&refer=us
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Congress sends farm law extension
to Bush -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://ap.google.com/article/ALeqM5i440tH3TeSZXsKhDYs-GYMqnLhXAD903P19G0
|
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Senate debates evolution academic
freedom bill -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://www.floridabaptistwitness.com/8706.article
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Senate approves key education
bills -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://www.bizjournals.com/denver/stories/2008/04/14/daily52.html
|
|
House approves short extension
of current farm bill, Senate to follow -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://westernfarmpress.com/farmbill/extension-legislation-0417/
|
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Senate Backs Tighter Rules
For Young Drivers -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://www.courant.com/news/local/hc-teendrivers0417.artapr17,0,3165531.story
|
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House Members Urge Senate
to Take Up Shield Law -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://briefingroom.thehill.com/2008/04/....-up-sheild-law/
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Senate eyes probe of mystery
earmark -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://rss.cnn.com/~r/rss/cnn_politicalticker/~3/272079806/
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|
Georgia Democrats move caucus
out of Columbus -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://www.ledger-enquirer.com/news/story/299154.html
|
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Open Caucus: Assessing Elitism -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://thecaucus.blogs.nytimes.com/2008/04/17/open-caucus-assessing-elitism/
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MESSAGE FROM THE MAJORITY
LEADER -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- This week, the House passed the Ensuring
Access to Student Loans Act, an important measure to ensure that
the credit crisis does not become a student crisis. As problems
in the credit markets have prompted some lenders to scale back
– or stop – offering student loans, it is prudent for
the government to safeguard access to student loans to ensure
that students and their families have the resources they need
to pay for college. On Tax Day, Democrats continued our commitment to making our tax code fairer and simpler by passing the Taxpayer Assistance and Simplification Act. This bill makes small but important reforms to our tax code. It will strengthen taxpayer protections from identity theft and tax fraud, expand assistance for low-income taxpayers, and end the private collection of federal income taxes. As Pope Benedict XVI made his first visit to the United States, the House passed the Jubilee Act for Responsible Lending and Expanded Debt Cancellation, a bill he has championed that provides debt cancellation to the poorest nations in the world. Next week, we will continue to insist on government accountability by taking up several government contracting bills. We will support small businesses with a bill to improve the Small Business Innovation Research program and the Small Business Technology Transfer program. We will also bring the Coast Guard Authorization Act to the Floor next week. In addition, we continue to work on important legislation, such as the Farm Bill, legislation addressing the housing crisis, supplemental funding for Iraq, and a budget resolution.
Sincerely yours, |
|
Presidential Candidates on
Marijuana -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://tierneylab.blogs.nytimes.com/2008....s-on-marijuana/
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British PM meets presidential
candidates -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://www.canada.com/ottawacitizen/news....5c-11710ae0877a
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Four Presidential Candidates
Address Governor’s Economic Forum -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://www.pacificmagazine.net/news/2008....-economic-forum
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C-SPAN Weekend Alert -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- C-SPAN Highlights Friday: Saturday: Sunday: Monday: Friday: Saturday: Monday: ********************************************************************** Friday: Saturday: Sunday: Monday: Saturday: Sunday: Monday: * Washington Journal: PA Primary Tour in
Hazleton - Sat., C-SPAN, 8:30am ET LIVE Saturday: Sunday: Monday: * President Bush said Friday he will nominate Small Business Administration chief Steve Preston to lead the Department of Housing and Urban Development... - Full Story at www.c-span.org/capitolspotlight/ * How many Democrats filed to run in the
1996 special election in Maryland’s 7th District? - Answer
at www.c-span.org/capitolspotlight/ |
|
FRIDAY, APRIL 18, 2008 --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
First Vote of the Week…
Last Vote Predicted…
Tuesday 6:30 p.m.
Legislative Program - 51600 | Floor Information - 57400 | Whip Information - 63210 MONDAY, APRIL 21, 2008 The House is not in Session.
TUESDAY, APRIL 22, 2008 The House will meet at 12:30 p.m. for morning hour debate and 2:00 p.m. for legislative business. Votes will be postponed until 6:30 p.m.
Suspensions (11 Bills): 1) H.R. 3513 - Copper Salmon Wilderness
Act (Rep. DeFazio – Natural Resources) 2) H.R. 5151 - Wild Monongahela Act: A
National Legacy for West Virginia's Special Places (Rep. Rahall–
Natural Resources) 3) H.R. 831 - Coffman Cove Administrative
Site Conveyance Act (Rep. Young (AK) – Natural Resources) 4) H.R. 3734 - Morley Nelson Snake River
Birds of Prey National Conservation Area Act (Rep. Simpson–
Natural Resources) 5) H.Con.Res. 323 - Expressing Congressional
support for the goals and ideals of National Health Care Decisions
Day (Rep. Gingrey – Energy and Commerce) 6) H.R. 5613 - Protecting the Medicaid
Safety Net Act of 2008 (Rep. Dingell – Energy and Commerce) 7) H.Res. 981 - Recognizing March 6, 2008,
as the first-ever World Glaucoma Day, established to increase
awareness of glaucoma, which is the second leading cause of preventable
blindness in the United States and worldwide (Rep. Baldwin –
Energy and Commerce) 8) H.Res. 1112 - Recognizes 2008 as the
International Year of the Reef (Rep. Baird – Science and
Technology) 9) H.Res. 1118 - Honoring the life and
achievements of John Archibald Weaver and expressing condolences
on his passing (Rep. Foster – Science and Technology) 10) H.Res. 1117 - Declaring the support
of the House of Representatives for the goals and ideals of Earth
Day and for developing the scientific and technological capabilities
to achieve those goals (Rep. McNerney – Science and Technology) 11) H.Con.Res. 322 - Recognizing the 60th
Anniversary of the founding of the modern State of Israel and
reaffirming the bonds of close friendship and cooperation between
the United States and Israel (Reps. Pelosi / Boehner – Foreign
Affairs)
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 23, 2008 AND THE BALANCE OF THE WEEK On Wednesday and Thursday, the House will meet at 10:00 a.m. for legislative business. On Friday, no votes are expected in the House.
Suspensions (8 Bills): 1) H.R. 5479 - To designate the facility
of the United States Postal Service located at 117 North Kidd
Street in Ionia, Michigan, as the "Alonzo Woodruff Post
Office Building".(Rep. Ehlers - Oversight and Government
Reform) 2) H.R. 5528 - To designate the facility
of the United States Postal Service located at 120 Commercial
Street in Brockton, Massachusetts, as the "Rocky Marciano
Post Office Building". (Rep. Lynch - Oversight and Government
Reform) 3) H.R. 5483 - To designate the facility
of the United States Postal Service located at 10449 White Granite
Drive in Oakton, Virginia, as the "Private First Class David
H. Sharrett II Post Office Building". (Rep. Davis (VA) -
Oversight and Government Reform) 4) H.R. 3721 - To designate the facility
of the United States Postal Service located at 1190 Lorena Road
in Lorena, Texas, as the "Marine Gunnery Sgt. John D. Fry
Post Office Building". (Rep. Edwards (TX) - Oversight and
Government Reform) 5) H.R. 4185 - To designate the facility
of the United States Postal Service located at 11151 Valley Boulevard
in El Monte, California, as the "Marisol Heredia Post Office
Building". (Rep. Solis - Oversight and Government Reform)
6) H.Res. 1016 - Expressing the condolences
of the House of Representatives on the death of William F. Buckley,
Jr. (Rep. Feeney - Oversight and Government Reform) 7) H.R. 3033 – Contractors and Federal
Spending Accountability Act (Rep. Maloney - Oversight and Government
Reform) 8) H.R. 5712 - Close the Contractor Fraud
Loophole Act (Rep. Welch - Oversight and Government Reform)
H.R. 5819 - To amend the Small Business
Act to improve the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR)
program and the Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) program,
and for other purposes (Rep. Velazquez – Small Business)
(Subject to a Rule)
H.R. 2830 - Coast Guard Authorization Act
of 2007 (Rep. Oberstar – Transportation and Infrastructure)
(Subject to a Rule) |
|
Former Clinton Cabinet member
endorses Obama -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://www.cnn.com/2008/POLITICS/04/18/campaign.roundup/
|
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John McCain makes gas prices
a political issue -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/washington/2008/04/john-mccain-mak.html
|
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Former Clinton labor secretary
Reich backs Obama -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://www.reuters.com/article/newsOne/idUSN1817629420080418
|
|
Georgia Dems will square off
for delegate slots -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://www.ajc.com/news/content/metro/stories/2008/04/18/dems_0419.html
|
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Democrats face off in Philadelphia -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://rss.cnn.com/~r/rss/cnn_politicalticker/~3/272108956/
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US Democrats vow to defend
Israel -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://english.aljazeera.net/NR/exeres/4C0D810B-B904-4F37-B41D-DB4531E23B46.htm
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Democrats block three strikes
amendment vote -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://www.myrecordjournal.com/site/tab1....id=592708&rfi=6
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Democrats seek to avoid Iraq
funding vote this fall -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://ap.google.com/article/ALeqM5hj7bLU_VVjrxBnHiIQbBEZqK4FhAD903T6TG0
|
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Democrats discuss new aid
package for Pakistan -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://www.dawn.com/2008/04/18/top4.htm
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Democrats seek program to
create summer jobs for young -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://seattlepi.nwsource.com/local/359580_teenjobs18.html
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Labor to Outspend Business
in Push for Democrats -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
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Democrats push for end to
presidential primary campaign -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://www.marshallnewsmessenger.com/new....rdelegates.html
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Obama Gets Establishment Democrats’
Backing as Clinton Attacks -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://humanrightsamerica.wordpress.com/....linton-attacks/
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Michigan Democrats pick delegates -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://detnews.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080419/POLITICS01/804190422
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|
2008 Education "Blogger
Summit" -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- There is Free Education Blogger Summit
in Washington DC next month. It's a great chance to meet other
Education Bloggers and tackle tough issues facing Education.
|
|
Fighting continues in Sadr
city as Iraqi lawmaker -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- BAGHDAD, Iraq (CNN) — A day after U.S. troops killed seven Shiite militants in eastern Baghdad’s Sadr City, a member of parliament on Sunday demanded an immediate end to the attacks or “all options are open to us.” “Let it be known that disbanding the Mehdi Army will mean the end of [Prime Minister Nuri] al-Maliki’s government. And therefore the siege of Sadr City and Shula should end immediately or all options are open to us,” said Fawzi Tarzi, a Sadrist member of parliament. “There is a fierce military and media campaign and a dirty political conspiracy planned and supported by the occupier against the Sadr trend.” Sadr City has been the scene of many clashes in recent weeks between U.S. and Iraqi Security Forces and the Mehdi Army of radical Shiite cleric Muqtada al-Sadr. Tarzi called on humanitarian organizations and the world media to visit Sadr City to see what he described as the “humanitarian tragedy” with “random airstrikes and raids” and the deteriorating humanitarian situation created by the “siege.” More than 400 people have died and 1,300 wounded in the attacks, Tarzi said, citing hospital figures. Meanwhile, U.S. Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice arrived in Baghdad’s Green Zone Sunday on a surprise visit to Iraq. The Sadr city casualties on Saturday resulted from air strikes and fire fights, according to the U.S. military. The Iraqi Interior Ministry put the number
of Iraqis killed at nine, with 15 wounded. |
|
Govt. spokesman: ‘Iraq
cannot be the new Somalia’ -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Shiite cleric Muqtada al-Sadr fired back at al-Maliki with a statement posted on loyalist Web sites Sunday, saying, “As far as I’m aware, the Iraqi forces supported by the occupation forces attacked some of our believer brothers.” Al-Sadr, referring to clashes in Nasiriya
Satruday that left 16 militiamen dead and another 22 wounded,
called for three days of mourning and demanded Iraqi lawmakers
condemn the alleged attacks and “put an end to such a massacre
under government cover.” |
|
Survey: U.S. gas prices hit
new record -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (CNN) — U.S. gas prices surged 15 cents in the past two weeks, reaching an all-time record of $3.47 per gallon, the publisher of a survey of self-serve regular gasoline prices said Sunday. The latest Lundberg Survey, carried out April 18, tallied prices at about 5,000 gas stations for the past two weeks. Publisher Trilby Lundberg said the average price beats the previous all-time record high of $3.32 set in the last survey, two weeks ago. Lundberg blamed the increased prices on
higher crude oil and ethanol prices. She said she does not expect
the prices to go down anytime soon, especially as gasoline demand
goes up in the spring and summer. |
|
Dean: I need a decision 'now' -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Watch Howard Dean on CNN Thursday. (CNN)— An increasingly firm Howard Dean told CNN again Thursday that he needs superdelegates to say who they’re for – and “I need them to say who they’re for starting now.” read at source> http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2008/04/18/dean-i-need-a-decision-now/
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Carter: Hamas will accept
Israel -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://news.google.com/news/url?sa=t&ct=....24eHdOtbnOpxrRQ
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US says Arab states have few
excuses to deny support to Iraq -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://news.google.com/news/url?sa=t&ct=....XD5K9Ajj6B4_6FQ
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|
Thomas Explains Switch From
Clinton to Obama -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Boston Globe read at source> http://news.google.com/news/url?sa=t&ct=....fATsypQGBp
9HHA |
|
Obama Makes 'Closing Argument'
in Clinton Country -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://news.google.com/news/url?sa=t&ct=....jqdbF79T0Vz
Avg |
|
Poll shows Clinton pulling
away from Obama -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://news.google.com/news/url?sa=t&ct=....UR
t7Dy8jdoFF0A |
|
Women For Obama Caucus /Event
@ State Convention -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://my.barackobama.com/page/event/detail/organizing/4zsd
|
|
Over the past few months,
supporters from all over the country have helped build an incredible
grassroots organization in Pennsylvania. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Video: Barack in Philadelphia http://my.barackobama.com/CometoPA We knew from the start that our campaign in the Keystone state wouldn't be easy, but supporters across the country have answered the call for Barack. Last month, volunteers helped register tens of thousands of voters -- and thousands will take the day off from work or school to be here to help out on Primary Day. Pennsylvania is just a short ride away, and making the trip could be the most important decision you make this primary season. Check out the video, and come help finish what we started in Pennsylvania. Join us this Tuesday and help Get Out The Vote: http://my.barackobama.com/CometoPA Let's make it happen together, Jeremy Jeremy Bird |
|
Democrats Widen Fundraising
Lead for Senate Campaigns -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/con....8041902012.html
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Presidential candidates urge
break from oil -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://lohud.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?A....00330/-1/SPORTS
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Mason-Dixon: Clinton Ahead
By Five In Pennsylvania -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://tpmelectioncentral.talkingpointsm....ahead_by_fi.php
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My Vote's for Obama (if I
could vote) ...by Michael Moore -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- April 21st, 2008 Friends, I don't get to vote for President this primary season. I live in Michigan. The party leaders (both here and in D.C.) couldn't get their act together, and thus our votes will not be counted. So, if you live in Pennsylvania, can you do me a favor? Will you please cast my vote -- and yours -- on Tuesday for Senator Barack Obama? I haven't spoken publicly 'til now as to who I would vote for, primarily for two reasons: 1) Who cares?; and 2) I (and most people I know) don't give a rat's ass whose name is on the ballot in November, as long as there's a picture of JFK and FDR riding a donkey at the top of the ballot, and the word "Democratic" next to the candidate's name. Seriously, I know so many people who don't care if the name under the Big "D" is Dancer, Prancer, Clinton or Blitzen. It can be Mickey Mouse, Donald Duck, Barry Obama or the Dalai Lama. Well, that sounded good last year, but over the past two months, the actions and words of Hillary Clinton have gone from being merely disappointing to downright disgusting. I guess the debate last week was the final straw. I've watched Senator Clinton and her husband play this game of appealing to the worst side of white people, but last Wednesday, when she hurled the name "Farrakhan" out of nowhere, well that's when the silly season came to an early end for me. She said the "F" word to scare white people, pure and simple. Of course, Obama has no connection to Farrakhan. But, according to Senator Clinton, Obama's pastor does -- AND the "church bulletin" once included a Los Angeles Times op-ed from some guy with Hamas! No, not the church bulletin! This sleazy attempt to smear Obama was brilliantly explained the following night by Stephen Colbert. He pointed out that if Obama is supported by Ted Kennedy, who is Catholic, and the Catholic Church is led by a Pope who was in the Hitler Youth, that can mean only one thing: OBAMA LOVES HITLER! Yes, Senator Clinton, that's how you sounded. Like you were nuts. Like you were a bigot stoking the fires of stupidity. How sad that I would ever have to write those words about you. You have devoted your life to good causes and good deeds. And now to throw it all away for an office you can't win unless you smear the black man so much that the superdelegates cry "Uncle (Tom)" and give it all to you. But that can't happen. You cast your die when you voted to start this bloody war. When you did that you were like Moses who lost it for a moment and, because of that, was prohibited from entering the Promised Land. How sad for a country that wanted to see the first woman elected to the White House. That day will come -- but it won't be you. We'll have to wait for the current Democratic governor of Kansas to run in 2016 (you read it here first!). There are those who say Obama isn't ready, or he's voted wrong on this or that. But that's looking at the trees and not the forest. What we are witnessing is not just a candidate but a profound, massive public movement for change. My endorsement is more for Obama The Movement than it is for Obama the candidate. That is not to take anything away from this exceptional man. But what's going on is bigger than him at this point, and that's a good thing for the country. Because, when he wins in November, that Obama Movement is going to have to stay alert and active. Corporate America is not going to give up their hold on our government just because we say so. President Obama is going to need a nation of millions to stand behind him. I know some of you will say, 'Mike, what have the Democrats done to deserve our vote?' That's a damn good question. In November of '06, the country loudly sent a message that we wanted the war to end. Yet the Democrats have done nothing. So why should we be so eager to line up happily behind them? I'll tell you why. Because I can't stand one more friggin' minute of this administration and the permanent, irreversible damage it has done to our people and to this world. I'm almost at the point where I don't care if the Democrats don't have a backbone or a kneebone or a thought in their dizzy little heads. Just as long as their name ain't "Bush" and the word "Republican" is not beside theirs on the ballot, then that's good enough for me. I, like the majority of Americans, have been pummeled senseless for 8 long years. That's why I will join millions of citizens and stagger into the voting booth come November, like a boxer in the 12th round, all bloodied and bruised with one eye swollen shut, looking for the only thing that matters -- that big "D" on the ballot. Don't get me wrong. I lost my rose-colored glasses a long time ago. It's foolish to see the Democrats as anything but a nicer version of a party that exists to do the bidding of the corporate elite in this country. Any endorsement of a Democrat must be done with this acknowledgement and a hope that one day we will have a party that'll represent the people first, and laws that allow that party an equal voice. Finally, I want to say a word about the basic decency I have seen in Mr. Obama. Mrs. Clinton continues to throw the Rev. Wright up in his face as part of her mission to keep stoking the fears of White America. Every time she does this I shout at the TV, "Say it, Obama! Say that when she and her husband were having marital difficulties regarding Monica Lewinsky, who did she and Bill bring to the White House for 'spiritual counseling?' THE REVEREND JEREMIAH WRIGHT!" But no, Obama won't throw that at her. It wouldn't be right. It wouldn't be decent. She's been through enough hurt. And so he remains silent and takes the mud she throws in his face. That's why the crowds who come to see him are so large. That's why he'll take us down a more decent path. That's why I would vote for him if Michigan were allowed to have an election. But the question I keep hearing is... 'can he win? Can he win in November?' In the distance we hear the siren of the death train called the Straight Talk Express. We know it's possible to hear the words "President McCain" on January 20th. We know there are still many Americans who will never vote for a black man. Hillary knows it, too. She's counting on it. Pennsylvania, the state that gave birth to this great country, has a chance to set things right. It has not had a moment to shine like this since 1787 when our Constitution was written there. In that Constitution, they wrote that a black man or woman was only "three fifths" human. On Tuesday, the good people of Pennsylvania have a chance for redemption. Yours, |
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Majority Leader Hoyer Statement
on Earth Day -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- “Tomorrow is the 38th Earth Day, a day to reflect on the progress we’ve made for the health of our planet – and to remember how much more remains to be done. Looking back, we can be proud that the Democratic Majorities in Congress have made real progress toward a future of cleaner energy and an America free of its fossil-fuel, foreign-oil addiction. “In the past year, Congress passed the historic Energy Independence and Security Act, legislation that develops biofuels, increases fuel efficiency, and is set to dramatically reduce CO2 emissions over the years to come. In fact, to cut that much pollution, we’d have to take 28 million cars and trucks off the road. “But global warming remains the greatest long-term environmental threat. Democrats are committed to meeting that challenge head-on. We need to end taxpayer subsidies to oil companies making record profits, and instead direct resources to our growing renewable energy industry. We need to make our traditional energy sources burn cleaner, by advancing technologies like carbon sequestration. And we need to set incentives for reducing greenhouse gas emissions, such as a cap-and-trade system. “Democrats are confident that we can make our country green and strong at the same time: Over the next decade, investing in clean energy can create an estimated 3 million new jobs, strengthen our national security, and result in healthier communities and a cleaner environment for our children. “If we can look back on those accomplishments next Earth Day, we’ll truly have something to celebrate.”
### |
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Hillary needs your help. With
less than 24 hours left until the Pennsylvania primary and races
across the country following soon after, it's an all-hands-on
deck moment for our campaign. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- We need as many volunteers as we can get on the phones calling voters in Pennsylvania and other upcoming primary states. The calls you make are critical to our success tomorrow in this historic campaign. I can't emphasize enough what a difference it makes to have Hillary's best supporters -- people just like you -- making calls and speaking directly with voters. To put it as simply as I can, more calls equal more votes. Even if you can only spare a couple of hours, you can have a big impact. The Pennsylvania primary is almost upon us, and Hillary needs you. Sign up for a shift to make calls and help
Hillary win. I really appreciate everything that our volunteers do to help Hillary and the campaign. Thank you so much for caring about the future of our country. Sincerely, |
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Senate to Consider Equal Pay
Bill -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://thecaucus.blogs.nytimes.com/2008/....al-pay-bill/?hp
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C-SPAN Daily Alert -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- C-SPAN Highlights Tonight: Tomorrow: Tonight: Tomorrow: ********************************************************************** Tonight: Tomorrow: Tonight: Tomorrow: * Sens. Obama (D-IL) & Clinton (D-NY)
Campaign Rally in PA - C-SPAN, 9:30am ET - LIVE * Newspaper Articles & Viewer Calls ********************************************************************** * House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, who has called on the ethics committee to look into the handling of a controversial earmark in the 2005 highway bill, has also decided to accept Senate language calling for a Justice Department probe of the matter...- Full Story at www.c-span.org/capitolspotlight/ * How many Democrats filed to run in the 1996 special election in Maryland’s 7th District? - Answer at www.c-span.org/capitolspotlight/ ********************************************************************** * C-SPAN's Campaign 2008 Bus now touring
Pennsylvania. See the schedule at www.c-span.org/schoolbus/schedule_paprimary.asp.
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FLOOR SCHEDULE FOR TUESDAY,
APRIL 22, 2008 --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
House Meets At…
Last Vote Predicted…
12:30 p.m.: Morning Hour 2:00 p.m.: Legislative Business
Unlimited “One Minutes” Per Side 7:00 p.m.
Votes will be postponed until 6:30 p.m.
Suspensions (12 Bills): 1) H.R. 3513 - Copper Salmon Wilderness
Act (Rep. DeFazio – Natural Resources) 2) H.R. 5151 - Wild Monongahela Act: A
National Legacy for West Virginia's Special Places (Rep. Rahall
– Natural Resources) 3) H.R. 831 - Coffman Cove Administrative
Site Conveyance Act (Rep. Young (AK) – Natural Resources) 4) H.R. 3734 - Morley Nelson Snake River
Birds of Prey National Conservation Area Act (Rep. Simpson –
Natural Resources) 5) H.Con.Res. 323 - Expressing Congressional
support for the goals and ideals of National Health Care Decisions
Day (Rep. Gingrey – Energy and Commerce) 6) H.R. 5613 - Protecting the Medicaid
Safety Net Act of 2008 (Rep. Dingell – Energy and Commerce) 7) H.Res. 981 - Recognizing March 6, 2008,
as the first-ever World Glaucoma Day, established to increase
awareness of glaucoma, which is the second leading cause of preventable
blindness in the United States and worldwide (Rep. Baldwin –
Energy and Commerce) 8) H.Res. 1112 - Recognizes 2008 as the
International Year of the Reef (Rep. Baird – Science and
Technology) 9) H.Res. 891 - Celebrating 35 years of
space-based observations of the Earth by the Landsat spacecraft
and looking forward to sustaining the longest unbroken record
of civil Earth observations of the land (Rep. Udall (CO) –
Science and Technology) 10) H.Res. 1118 - Honoring the life and
achievements of John Archibald Wheeler and expressing condolences
on his passing (Rep. Foster – Science and Technology) 11) H.Res. 1117 - Declaring the support
of the House of Representatives for the goals and ideals of Earth
Day and for developing the scientific and technological capabilities
to achieve those goals (Rep. McNerney – Science and Technology) 12) H.Con.Res. 322 - Recognizing the 60th
Anniversary of the founding of the modern State of Israel and
reaffirming the bonds of close friendship and cooperation between
the United States and Israel (Reps. Pelosi / Boehner – Foreign
Affairs) |
|
Presidential Candidates &
the Palestine-Israel Conflict -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://www.gather.com/viewArticle.jsp?ar....&nav=Groupspace
|
|
Iraqi PM emphasizes the positive
at neighbors’ conference -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (CNN) — Despite a growing confrontation with a radical Shiite cleric and his followers, Iraqi Prime Minister Nuri al-Maliki told neighboring countries that Iraq has moved past its internal divisions and “has entered a new phase” where “the will of all its people is united.” “I come to you carrying a message from Iraq with all its components, leaders and political powers… Iraq has passed its crises and divisions,” al-Maliki told representatives of neighboring countries who are meeting in Kuwait at the third expanded neighbors’ conference. U.S. Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice
is also attending the conference, along with 29 foreign ministers
and other top world body representatives. Rice said she hopes
to rally more support among Iraq’s neighbors to help reinforce
Iraq’s recent successes. |
|
Education secretary to announce
new standards for No Child Left Behind program -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- WASHINGTON (CNN) — The Bush administration will announce new standards for its No Child Left Behind program Tuesday, a White House spokesman said. The changes, to be announced by Education Secretary Margaret Spellings in Detroit, will “strengthen and improve” the law, deputy White House press secretary Scott Stanzel said. Stanzel said the updates are a “follow on” to President Bush’s comments in January, when he said that if Congress did not act this spring to update the law, the president would ask Spellings to strengthen it through administrative actions. –From CNN Correspondent Kathleen Koch |
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U.N. expert: Food crisis ‘a
silent tsunami’ -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (CNN) — Those battling global warming by promoting biofuels unintentionally may be adding to skyrocketing world food prices, creating what one expert calls “a silent tsunami” in developing nations. The rising prices are “threatening to plunge more than 100 million people on every continent into hunger,” Josette Sheeran, executive director of the United Nations’ World Food Programme, said on the agency’s Web site Tuesday. Sheeran is one of the experts attending a Food Summit hosted Tuesday by British Prime Minister Gordon Brown at 10 Downing Street, aimed at determining ways to boost food supplies and identify deterrents. Also attending the meeting are scientists and representatives from the European Union and Africa. On the Web site, Sheeran said the increase
in food prices is “a silent tsunami that respects no borders.” |
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U.N.: Deaths in war-torn Darfur
believed up 50 percent in 2 years -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- NEW YORK (CNN) — The number of deaths in Darfur since 2006 may be up by 50 percent, to 300,000; sexual violence has increased; and food allotments for civilians affected by the civil war will be halved in a few days, the U.N. undersecretary-general for humanitarian affairs warned Tuesday. John Holmes, who also is the United Nations’ emergency relief coordinator, gave the U.N. Security Council an update on conditions in the western Sudan region, updating one he gave a year ago. “I am sad to say that the humanitarian situation remains as grim today as it was then, if not more so,” he said. So far in 2008, 100,000 civilians have fled their homes, many not for the first time, he said. In March, international figures, including
U.N. data, put the death toll in Darfur at 200,000, with another
2.5 million people displaced. |
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Gas price peak stirs angst
in U.S. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- SAN FRANCISCO, California (CNN) — Travelers reacted Tuesday to yet-another record price for gasoline with a mixture of anger, determination to find an alternative and resignation that the prices may not have peaked. “I don’t think we’ll be doing any big travels this year, … at least by car,” said Debbie Jasmin as she filled her three-ton SUV Expedition’s 28-gallon tank with gas that cost more than $4 per gallon. This makes the first time that Americans
are paying, on average, more than $3.50 per gallon at the pump,
according to the Oil Price Information Service. The average price
for regular unleaded was $3.5034 per gallon, with California
hitting $3.86 per gallon and Hawaii $3.76 per gallon, it said.
Tuesday’s average is 65 cents (22.9 percent) above what
it was a year ago. |
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Clinton claims victory in
Pennsylvania primary -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://www.cnn.com/2008/POLITICS/04/22/pa.primary/index.html
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The polls are open in Pennsylvania
right now, and the eyes of the country are watching. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Barack needs your help to get as many supporters as possible out to vote. Use our online phonebanking tool to make calls into the Keystone State and help Get Out The Vote right now: http://my.barackobama.com/callPA Supporters like you have helped register hundreds of thousands of new voters in Pennsylvania -- voters who had never been part of the political process or who stopped voting when our politics got so petty and divisive. Now, these folks have the opportunity to make their voices heard for Barack. But we need your help to make sure people all across Pennsylvania vote in today's primary. Every call you make could be another vote for Barack in this closely-watched contest. Reach out to voters in Pennsylvania and help them make their voices heard: http://my.barackobama.com/callPA With our online calling tool, it's never been easier to make an impact: * When you log in, you'll get a list of
20 names that only you will receive. (If you don't have a My.BarackObama
account, creating one is fast and easy.) Today, you can send a message that Americans are ready for a new kind of politics -- a politics of hope rather than distraction and fear. Start making calls now: http://my.barackobama.com/callPA Thanks for everything you're doing, Jon Jon Carson |
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John McCain believes we're
better off economically today than we were eight years ago. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The American people know that's not true -- they're feeling the effects of high gas prices, lost jobs, and a housing crisis. Voters continually rank the economy as their biggest concern. So this week we're planning to release our first national television ad of the presidential race to show the American people just how wrong John McCain is on the economy. We're also strengthening our local organizing efforts to make sure the American people really know how little John McCain understands the economy. We need $500,000 to help pay for ads like the one we plan to air this week, fund organizers in your state and build a national infrastructure to help Hillary or Barack win the White House. Can you help us raise $500,000? If you can, then millions of Americans will get to see and hear the real John McCain in his own words -- and we'll be building for victory in November. Click here to see our first ad of the presidential race: http://www.democrats.org/support John McCain is on the record as saying the economy is something he really doesn't understand as well as he should. It shows. Unemployment is up. Gas and food prices are up. Inflation is on the rise. The housing market is in a slump. The pundits are saying we're in the worst economic mess in decades. But John McCain keeps defending his friend George Bush, saying everything is just fine. Providing tax cuts for the wealthy, allowing oil and gas companies to make huge windfall profits and turning a blind eye to the problems in the home lending market -- these are John McCain's solutions. American families can't afford four more years of failed Bush economic policies. Your support today allows us to get this spot on the air across the country. We want to do this right -- please take a moment now to watch the ad and then make a contribution: http://www.democrats.org/support John McCain and the Republican Party hope we'll forget about the mismanagement of the last eight years. They're working hard to distract Americans from getting to know the real John McCain, and the Republican spin machine is working overtime. While John McCain is out trying to reintroduce himself to the American people, we want to make sure voters have all the facts -- and have the chance to know the real John McCain. Your support to help us raise $500,000 means we can start distributing the ad on national television this week, while putting additional resources into our 50-state strategy. We'll make sure Americans hear John McCain in his own words. And the more we raise, the more voters we can reach with this and other spots. Thanks for your support, Howard Dean |
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If you haven't visited Congressman
Dennis Kucinich -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The store is open The "Official Kucinich Store" is now open for business, carrying a variety of items - including T-shirts, sweatshirts, bumper stickers and more - all "Made in America" and union-printed. http://store.kucinich.us Find exactly what you're looking for The campaign team has added powerful new and easy-to-use search engines to navigate through the Congressman's long and distinguished record of service: floor speeches, announcements, position papers, news releases, videos, news stories, and personal messages to supporters and constituents. And, all of the information has been organized and segmented on an issue-by-issue basis (e.g. Universal Health Care, Patriot Act, NAFTA, etc.) so that a simple click will take you to pages that deal exclusively and comprehensively with that specific issue. You can easily find whatever you're looking for without having to sort through mountains of unrelated information on other issues. Speak your mind Each major issue also has its own Forum section so you can share your thoughts - and interact with other interested citizens - on an issue-by-issue basis. We've also made it easier for you to embed video and audio segments into your own Forum comments. And, we've enhanced the "Help Forum" to answer any technical questions about how to use the new and expanded site. Zoom in on the 10th District On the home page, there's a detailed map of Ohio's 10th Congressional District. By clicking on any community, you'll be able to get information about what the issues are there and how Dennis has been working to address those issues. This is the most comprehensive body of information ever made available to the public by any campaign. AND, and it's all Web 2.0 friendly. Take a test run at www.kucinich.us. Explore. Search anything and everything that you're interested in. And let us know what you think by sending your comments to http://forum.kucinich.us. Thank you Please contribute.Your support and your
generosity in helping Dennis win convincingly in last month's
Democratic Primary has made all of this possible. The road to
the November general election is going to be challenging, and
we hope that we can count on your continuing support for the
Congressman who brings unflinching courage, unquestioned integrity,
unmatched insight, and a powerful and positive vision to the
U.S. House of Representatives: Dennis J. Kucinich. |
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C-SPAN Daily Alert -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- C-SPAN Highlights Tonight: Tomorrow: Tonight: Tomorrow: Tonight: Tomorrow: Tonight: Tomorrow: ********************************************************************** * Coverage of PA Primary Results &
Candidate Speeches - C-SPAN2, 8pm ET LIVE * Newspaper Articles * Senators agreed Tuesday to take up a bill to expand veterans benefits almost 10 months after its approval by the Veterans’ Affairs Committee...- Full Story at www.c-span.org/capitolspotlight/ * Which of the following is NOT a feature
of north-central Pennsylvania’s 5th Congressional District?
- Answer at www.c-span.org/capitolspotlight/ |
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Resolution Recognizing 60th
Anniversary of Founding of Israel -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- WASHINGTON, DC – House Majority Leader Steny H. Hoyer (MD) spoke on the House Floor today in support of a resolution recognizing the 60th anniversary of the founding of Israel. Below are his remarks as prepared for delivery: “Madam Speaker, it is fitting today that Members on both sides of the aisle join to recognize the founding of our nation’s steadfast friend and ally, the State of Israel; to reconfirm the special bond that exists between our two nations; and to reiterate that the support for Israel in this Congress is bipartisan, overwhelming and stronger than ever. “On May 14, 1948 – the day on which the British Mandate for Palestine expired – the people of Israel proclaimed the sovereign and independent State of Israel. “And, 11 minutes later, the United States – at the direction of President Truman – recognized the establishment of this new state. “President Truman observed: ‘I
had faith in Israel before it was established, I have faith in
it now. I believe it has a glorious future before it – not
just another sovereign nation, but as an embodiment of “Madam Speaker, over the ensuing six decades it has become increasingly clear that Israel’s success is not only a strategic imperative for the United States, but a moral imperative, as well. “Ours is a relationship of principle and conscience, of shared values and common aspirations, of peace and opportunity, and of a mutual commitment to freedom and democracy. “The United States and Israel are nations of immigrants. “We are safe havens for the oppressed. “We are partners for peace. “And, we are united in fighting terrorism. “No people on earth have been subjected to more bigotry and violence than the Jewish people. “And, no people are more in need of a sovereign, secure homeland to provide safe haven and to protect identity. “David Ben-Gurion once remarked: The security of Israel ‘is a question of the survival not only of the people of Israel, but of the Jewish people the world over.’ “Throughout the last 60 years, Israel has been an island of freedom in a sea of despair. It has been vilified, threatened and attacked. And yet, it has prevailed and prospered – just as it will prevail and prosper today, tomorrow and in the future. “When we talk of Israel, we inevitably acknowledge her courage in the face of those who seek her destruction. “But let us also acknowledge that over the last 60 years, the Israeli people have established a vibrant, pluralistic, democratic political system that includes freedom of speech, association and religion; a vigorous, free press; free, fair and open elections; the rule of law and an independent judiciary. “Furthermore, Israel has developed an advanced, entrepreneurial economy and is among the world leaders in the high-tech industry. “Madam Speaker, over the last five years, I have had the privilege of traveling with Congressional delegations on tours of Israel three times. And, what the Members saw was a reflection of themselves: People who love their country; people who want to live in peace and freedom; and people who want their children to have even greater opportunities. “As our allies in Israel celebrate their 60th anniversary of independence, let us honor their determination to fulfill the vision of Zionism’s founding father, Theodor Herzl, who observed, ‘If you will it, it is no dream.’ “Through courage and will, Israel was born and the dream of generations was made real – and it will endure. “I want to congratulate the citizens of Israel and the entire Jewish community on this important anniversary of Israel’s founding.”
### |
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Hoyer Statement on Equal Pay
Day -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- “Today on Equal Pay Day, we mark how far into the year a woman must work, on average, before equaling the amount of money earned by a man during the previous calendar year. It is an outrage that in 2008, women still earn a mere 77 cents for every dollar earned by a man. The numbers for minority women and older women are even worse, and a demonstration of the inequity still present in today’s society. “Last July, the House passed the Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Act, which protects workers who are subjected to pay discrimination. As the Senate takes this bill up tomorrow, there is nothing more appropriate it could do to honor Equal Pay Day than to support this legislation. “As the father of three daughters, I believe we must do all we can to make equal pay a reality. Women across this nation are working to support themselves and their families. In light of our weakening economy, it is imperative that we ensure that workers regardless of gender, race, or religion receive equal pay for equal work.”
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FLOOR SCHEDULE FOR WEDNESDAY,
APRIL 23, 2008 --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
House Meets At…
Last Vote Predicted…
10:00 a.m.: Legislative Business
Fifteen “One Minutes” Per Side 6:00 - 7:00 p.m.
Suspensions (9 Bills): 1) H.R. 5479 - To designate the facility
of the United States Postal Service located at 117 North Kidd
Street in Ionia, Michigan, as the "Alonzo Woodruff Post
Office Building".(Rep. Ehlers - Oversight and Government
Reform) 2) H.R. 5528 - To designate the facility
of the United States Postal Service located at 120 Commercial
Street in Brockton, Massachusetts, as the "Rocky Marciano
Post Office Building". (Rep. Lynch - Oversight and Government
Reform) 3) H.R. 5483 - To designate the facility
of the United States Postal Service located at 10449 White Granite
Drive in Oakton, Virginia, as the "Private First Class David
H. Sharrett II Post Office Building". (Rep. Davis (VA) -
Oversight and Government Reform) 4) H.R. 3721 - To designate the facility
of the United States Postal Service located at 1190 Lorena Road
in Lorena, Texas, as the "Marine Gunnery Sgt. John D. Fry
Post Office Building". (Rep. Edwards (TX) - Oversight and
Government Reform) 5) H.R. 4185 - To designate the facility
of the United States Postal Service located at 11151 Valley Boulevard
in El Monte, California, as the "Marisol Heredia Post Office
Building". (Rep. Solis - Oversight and Government Reform)
6) H.Res. 1016 - Expressing the condolences
of the House of Representatives on the death of William F. Buckley,
Jr. (Rep. Feeney - Oversight and Government Reform) 7) H.R. 3033 – Contractors and Federal
Spending Accountability Act (Rep. Maloney - Oversight and Government
Reform) 8) H.R. 5712 - Close the Contractor Fraud
Loophole Act (Rep. Welch - Oversight and Government Reform) 9) H.R. 3928 – Government Contractor
Accountability Act (Rep. Murphy (CT) - Oversight and Government
Reform)
H.R. 5819 - To amend the Small Business
Act to improve the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR)
program and the Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) program,
and for other purposes (Rep. Velazquez – Small Business)
(Subject to a Rule)
H.R. 2830 - Coast Guard Authorization Act
of 2008 (Rep. Oberstar – Transportation and Infrastructure)
(Subject to a Rule)
Postponed Suspension Votes (2 Bills) 1) H.R. 5613 - Protecting the Medicaid
Safety Net Act of 2008 (Rep. Dingell – Energy and Commerce) 2) H.Con.Res. 322 - Recognizing the 60th
Anniversary of the founding of the modern State of Israel and
reaffirming the bonds of close friendship and cooperation between
the United States and Israel (Reps. Pelosi / Boehner – Foreign
Affairs) |
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FACTBOX-US presidential candidates
on trade -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://uk.reuters.com/article/oilRpt/idUKN2233525720080422
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Presidential Campaign Fundraising
Already Nearly Double 2004 Election -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://www.usnews.com/blogs/news-desk/20....-electio
n.html |
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FACTBOX-US presidential candidates
on environment -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://uk.reuters.com/article/oilRpt/idUKN2231243820080422
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Barack Obama Has Most Online
Video Viewers Among Presidential ... -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://www.earthtimes.org/articles/show/....ne,362033.shtml
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Votes are still being counted
in Pennsylvania, but one thing is already clear. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- In a state where we trailed by more than 25 points just a couple weeks ago, you helped close the gap to a slimmer margin than most thought possible. Thanks to your support, with just 9 contests remaining, we've won more delegates, more votes, and twice as many contests. We hold a commanding position, but there are two crucial contests coming up -- voters will head to the polls in North Carolina and Indiana in exactly two weeks. And we're already building our organization in the other remaining states. But it's clear the attacks are going to continue, and we're going to continue fighting a two-front battle against John McCain and Hillary Clinton. I need your support right now. Please make a donation of $25: https://donate.barackobama.com/whatthismeans Thank you for all that you're doing to change our country. Barack Donate |
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Pennsylvania Democrats Cast
White House Votes -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://www.cnbc.com/id/24251172
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Democrats make last minute
pitch to undecided vote -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://www.newsday.com/news/nationworld/ny-usdems23,0,2961926.story
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Thanks to you, we won a critically
important victory tonight in Pennsylvania. It's a giant step
forward that will transform the landscape of the presidential
race. And it couldn't have happened without you. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- There will be much more to do beginning tomorrow. But tonight, let's just celebrate the fact that you and I are part of a remarkable community of people tough enough, passionate enough, and determined enough to win big when everything is on the line. Thanks so much for all you do. Sincerely, |
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Lack of fuel in Gaza forces
U.N. to halt food distribution -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- GAZA CITY (CNN) — The United Nations’ relief agency in Gaza said Thursday it will have to stop distributing food to nearly 700,000 Palestinian refugees in Gaza because it is running out of fuel. Israel, which is the sole supplier of fuel and electricity to the territory, has reduced fuel shipments in response to recent terror attacks it blames on Gaza’s Hamas leadership. But Israeli government spokesman Mark Regev
said Israel has resumed shipments — sending a million liters
of petrol, diesel and gasoline to Gaza on Thursday — and
blamed Hamas for not distributing the fuel in order to create
a humanitarian crisis that it can blame on Israel. |
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Congress grills Delta, Northwest
CEOs on merger -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- WASHINGTON (CNNMoney.com) — The CEOs of Delta Air Lines and Northwest Airlines defended their proposed $3.1 billion merger before a House committee Thursday, addressing lawmakers’ concerns that the deal would stifle competition in the airline industry. Richard Anderson, CEO of Delta, and Douglas Steenland, CEO of Northwest, testified that rising oil prices and increased competition from foreign airlines in the United States fuel the need for the merger. Steenland said the merged airline would be more “financially stable and resilient,” better able to meet customer needs and better able to provide benefits to workers. He also said no hubs would be closed as a result. Lawmakers, especially those from areas where the two airlines concentrate their service, are worried about the merger’s impact on the nation’s air travel system. –By CNNMoney.com’s Aaron Smith
in New York |
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U.S. envoy says Mugabe lost
Zimbabwean presidential race -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- PRETORIA, South Africa (CNN) — A U.S. envoy said Thursday that the opposition leader in Zimbabwe beat President Robert Mugabe in that nation’s recent presidential election. Jendayi Frazer, the U.S. assistant secretary of state for Africa, told CNN Thursday that she believes Movement for Democratic Change leader Morgan Tsvangirai beat Mugabe in the March 29 election. The results of the election have not been
announced and a recount is under way. |
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Bush, Abbas talk peace as
Mideast trip looms for Bush -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- WASHINGTON (CNN) — After meeting Thursday at the White House, U.S. President George Bush and Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas expressed hope that peace can be achieved in the Middle East prior to January, when Bush’s term ends. “I assured the president that a Palestinian state is a high priority for me and my administration,” the U.S. president told reporters as Abbas looked on. “A viable state, a state that doesn’t look like Swiss cheese, a state that provides hope.” Bush lauded Abbas as a man who “rejects the idea of using violence to achieve objectives, which distinguishes him from other people in the region.” That remark was an apparent reference to leaders of Hamas, which won a majority of seats in the Palestinian legislature in 2006. The U.S. State Department considers Hamas to be a terrorist organization and U.S. officials have refused to hold direct talks with it. Former U.S. President Jimmy Carter met
with Hamas officials during his visits to Egypt and Syria last
week. |
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McCain says U.S. government
failed New Orleans -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (CNN) — Sen. John McCain on Thursday blasted the Bush administration and all levels of government for the failed response to Hurricane Katrina in New Orleans. “We know we didn’t have the right kind of leadership … where government agencies were getting information from watching cable television rather than have a flow of information,” the presumptive GOP presidential candidate said during an event at Xavier University in New Orleans. “It was not only a perfect storm as far as its physical impact … it was a perfect storm as far as the federal, state and local governments’ inability,” he said. “Never again will there be a mismanaged natural disaster,” he said, later assuring the crowd that “it will never happen again in this country, you have my commitment and my promise.” –From CNN’s Ed Hornick |
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White House says Syria reactor
probably not for ‘peaceful purposes’ -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- WASHINGTON (CNN) — A covert nuclear
reactor destroyed last year in Syria was hidden from view, would
have been capable of producing plutonium and likely was “not
intended for peaceful purposes,” the White House said Thursday. |
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Administration opposes House
bill to help squeezed homeowners -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- WASHINGTON (CNN) — An ambitious proposal being considered in Congress calling for up to $300 billion in loan guarantees from the Federal Housing Authority drew fire Thursday from the Bush administration. Housing and Urban Development Deputy Secretary Roy Bernardi called the bill a “bailout” in a letter to House Financial Services Committee chairman Barney Frank, sponsor of the measure. The letter says the administration “strongly opposes” such legislation. Frank’s bill, the FHA Housing Stabilization
and Homeownership Retention Act, would allow the FHA to provide
loan guarantees to help at-risk borrowers move into viable mortgages. |
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Pelosi asks Bush to suspend
purchases of oil for strategic petroleum reserve -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- WASHINGTON (CNN) — House Speaker Nancy Pelosi urged President Bush on Thursday to temporarily suspend diverting oil to the strategic petroleum reserve, saying doing so could lower gas prices by as much as 24 cents a gallon. “Suspending deliveries to the (strategic petroleum reserve) will not only increase supply but impact energy prices by sending a signal to the market to stop runaway speculation,” Pelosi said. The strategic petroleum reserve is an emergency oil supply maintained by the Department of Energy. The speaker said the reserve is currently 97 percent full. A temporary halt to new deposits into the oil reserve is also supported by the presumptive Republican presidential nominee, Sen. John McCain, and the two Democratic presidential candidates, Sen. Hillary Clinton and Sen. Barack Obama. —-From Congressional Producer Deirdre
Walsh |
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Ethics committee admonishes
Domenici -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- WASHINGTON (CNN) — The Senate ethics committee issued a letter of admonition Thursday to New Mexico Republican Senator Pete Domenici for his role in contacting the U.S. attorney in his state about a pending federal grand jury investigation into public corruption. “The committee finds no substantial evidence to determine that you attempted to improperly influence an ongoing investigation,” the letter said about his call to David Iglesias, then the U.S. attorney for the District of New Mexico. Iglesias is one of eight U.S. attorneys
fired by the Bush administration, which led Democrats to allege
that the firings were politically motivated. Iglesias has said
Domenici called him before the 2006 election to inquire about
an ongoing corruption investigation involving Democrats, which
he interpreted as political pressure. |
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Iranians vote in parliamentary
run-off elections -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- TEHRAN, Iran (CNN) — Iranians headed to the polls Friday to cast ballots in parliamentary run-off elections to decide 82 seats. The first round last month, in which 204 parliamentary races were settled, was a decisive victory for President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad and his hard-line allies. Polling is scheduled to end at 6 p.m. (9:30 a.m. ET) unless more time is needed. The reformists suffered a setback before
last month’s election when 70 percent of their candidates
were disqualified. Iran’s conservative Guardian Council
screened candidates and disqualified about 1,700 it deemed unsuitable,
mostly reformists. |
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U.N. nuclear chief slams U.S.
over intelligence on Syria -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (CNN) — The head of the United Nations’
nuclear watchdog agency In a written statement, Mohamed ElBaradei
said the United States informed “Under the NPT, the agency has a responsibility
to verify any |
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Rep. Wu comes out for Obama
in Oregon -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://news.google.com/news/url?sa=t&ct=....ZHe81fU6xs7EudA
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Using New Math, Clinton Contends
She’s Ahead -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://news.google.com/news/url?sa=t&ct=....Tmd-tnW39A3pjtg
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Abbas says he will meet with
Bush in May -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (CNN) — Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas told CNN Friday that he will have a bilateral meeting with President Bush in Sharm el Sheikh, Egypt, in May. Abbas said he was not able to provide information who else might participate in the meeting, which he said will take place around May 17. The White House said it had “no public comment” on the report. While on his trip in January to the Mideast, Bush accepted an invitation from Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert to return to Israel. –From CNN’s Hala Gorani |
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Former Saddam aide Aziz to
stand trial in slaying of merchants -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- BAGHDAD, Iraq (CNN) — Tariq Aziz, one of the best-known faces of Saddam Hussein’s former regime in Iraq, will go on trial Tuesday for his alleged role in the execution of dozens of Iraqi merchants in 1992. Iraqi prosecutor Jaafar al-Moussawi said Aziz, Hussein’s deputy prime minister before the U.S.-led invasion of Iraq, will be tried with six other defendants for the executions of 42 Iraqi merchants. Al-Moussawi said the merchants were summoned to attend a meeting at the Interior Ministry, but when they got there they were blamed for a rise in prices, given a one-day trial and sentenced to death. Aziz’s lawyer, Badee Aref, said his
client had nothing to do with the executions. Al-Moussawi said
Aziz stands accused because he was a member of the Revolutionary
Command Council at the time of the killings. |
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Pentagon suspends controversial
retired officers-network analysts briefings -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- WASHINGTON (CNN) — The Pentagon has suspended the practice of the secretary of defense giving briefings to retired military officers-turned network television analysts, the chief Pentagon spokesman said Friday. Assistant Secretary of Defense for Public Affairs Robert Hastings said he suspended the program this week after an article in the Sunday New York Times alleged the analysts were used to push the Bush administration’s messages or shape media coverage on everything from the war in Iraq to what was going on in the prison camps at Guantanamo Bay. The article also alleged that some of the analysts were involved in business contracts with the Pentagon and that that information was rarely or never disclosed to even the networks. The briefings were started by then-Defense Secretary Donald Rumsfeld during the buildup to the war in Iraq in 2003. –From CNN Pentagon Producer Mike Mount |
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Syrian ambassador: U.S. claims
‘Iraq deja vu’ -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- From CNN State Department Producer Elise Labott WASHINGTON (CNN) — The facility bombed by Israeli warplanes last September was a vacant military building and any claim it was a nuclear facility is “ridiculous,” Syria’s ambassador to the United States told reporters Friday. Photos the United States provided to him Thursday “don’t prove anything, said Imad Moustapha, arguing they “weren’t taken in Syria” and there is no proof in the photos that they did come from Syria. “They were showing me photos from
inside a building somewhere in the world,” Moustapha said.
He noted the photos showed just one building — which didn’t
have enough power or other complex facilities nearby, such as
reprocessing plant for extracting plutonium from spent nuclear
fuel, in order to operate a nuclear program. |
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Caucus fighting for TVA money -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
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Augusta Dems to hold mini-presidential
caucus -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://news.mainetoday.com/updates/025835.html
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Immigration group briefs Black
Caucus -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://www.americanconservativedaily.com....s-black-caucus/
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Last night, Senator Clinton
used up her last, best chance to cut appreciably into Barack
Obama's elected delegate lead. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- She came up short. In fact, she barely made a dent. At most, she picked up a net gain of 12 delegates -- less than our gain, for example, in Colorado (where we gained 17) or Kansas (where we gained 14). Her gain in Pennsylvania was less than half of our gain in Virginia, where we added to our lead by 25 delegates. But there is one measure by which her campaign's gains are real. The Clinton campaign claims they've raised $3.5 million dollars since the polls closed yesterday. We can't afford to let that go unanswered. Please make a donation of $25 today to support this campaign: https://donate.barackobama.com/thefacts Grassroots support from people like you has the Democratic nomination in our sights. Here's how it breaks out: * After Pennsylvania, we have a lead of at least 159 elected delegates earned through all of the primaries and caucuses so far. We have a total of at least 1493 pledged delegates. * Meanwhile, we've been rapidly gaining ground among the so-called superdelegates (elected leaders and party officials who get a vote to choose our nominee), cutting Senator Clinton's lead from more than 100 early this year to less than 25. We have a total of 238 publicly committed superdelegates. * The total number of delegates needed to secure the nomination is 2,024. That means we are only 293 delegates away from securing the nomination. In less than two weeks, we'll square off in the key battleground states of North Carolina and Indiana, when there will be as many delegates at stake as there were last night in Pennsylvania. To grow our significant lead and close out this race, we must remain competitive in these contests and the 7 others that will follow. Barack needs your support right now to finish this contest: https://donate.barackobama.com/thefacts Pennsylvania was considered a state tailor-made for Senator Clinton -- she was always expected to win, and we trailed by as much as 25 points in the weeks leading up to the election. But thanks to people like you, Barack gained support among key voters in the face of long odds and unrelenting negativity from Senator Clinton, and kept the margin close enough that her delegate gain was insignificant. Indeed, the only surprising result from Pennsylvania is how much Barack was able to improve his standing among key voter groups since the Ohio primary. Among white voters, Obama narrowed the gap by 6 points. Among voters over 60, he nearly cut the gap in half, from 41 points to 24 points. Meanwhile, we continued to run strong where we have all along -- for example, winning voters ages 18-24 with over 65% of the vote. Barack campaigned hard in Pennsylvania. He talked about his plans to stand up to the special interests and bring people together so that we can change Washington to turn our economy around, make sure that every American has quality health care, and bring this misguided war to an end. Your donation of $25 can make sure we grow our lead and finish this race in the final 9 contests: https://donate.barackobama.com/thefacts Thank you, David David Plouffe |
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C-SPAN Daily Alert -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- C-SPAN Highlights Tonight: Tomorrow: Tonight: Tomorrow: Tonight: Tomorrow: Tonight: Tomorrow: * Road to the White House - Sun. on C-SPAN
at 6:30pm ET * Newspaper Articles & Viewer Calls ********************************************************************** * House Majority Leader Steny H. Hoyer said Wednesday he was “sure” the House will move a war funding bill that exceeds the administration’s request, a move that could set up another veto showdown with President Bush over spending...- Full Story at www.c-span.org/capitolspotlight/ * Who won the 1968 Democratic presidential
primary in Indiana? - Answer at www.c-span.org/capitolspotlight/
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Majority Leader Hoyer’s
Statement on Bipartisan Bill on Administration-Imposed Medicaid
Regulations -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- “It is absolutely outrageous that, with seven million more Americans being added to the rolls of the uninsured since President Bush took office, this Administration is actually trying to impose changes to Medicaid regulations that could affect the ability of millions of indigent Americans from receiving the health care they need and deserve. With 47 million uninsured Americans today, it is incomprehensible that the Administration would take action to limit health care services to even more citizens. “If the Administration’s regulatory changes are implemented, they would cut Medicaid funding to states for critical programs by as much as $18 billion over the next five years. It’s no wonder that such a broad spectrum of groups – including the National Governors Association, the American Hospital Association, the American Academy of Pediatrics and AARP – supports this bipartisan legislation authored by Chairman Dingell to place a moratorium on the Administration’s regulatory changes. “I am very pleased that this legislation passed with broad bipartisan support, and I hope the Senate takes up the bill as soon as possible. By imposing this moratorium, the bill protects states, beneficiaries, and providers from the harmful regulatory changes that would undermine the Medicaid safety net and imperil critical services for our most vulnerable citizens. At a time when the economy is significantly slowing down, it makes no sense to implement changes that compromise a program serving those families who are most in need.”
### |
|
Our first ad of the presidential
campaign hit TVs across the country today, thanks to people like
you. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The response from Democrats has been strong and overwhelmingly positive -- many of you are thrilled that we're standing up and fighting John McCain on television while Senator Clinton and Senator Obama work to win the nomination. The response from Republicans has also been strong, but overwhelmingly negative -- they're frustrated their candidate has such a terrible understanding of economics and that the American people are beginning to find out. John McCain himself has seen the ad. When he was asked tough questions about his economic plan after seeing it, he became testy and dismissive. But while the ad starts running on national television today, we're still organizing places like your community, laying the groundwork that Hillary Clinton or Barack Obama will need to win in November. And you can help. Make a contribution today to help us keep John McCain out of the White House -- we're running ads, organizing volunteers, and building the tools we'll need to win. But it costs money, and we can't afford to wait. Watch our first ad and make a contribution today: http://www.democrats.org/support Help us continue asking the tough questions of John McCain. We want to make sure Americans hear John McCain in his own words -- on the air and at their door. Thanks for all you do. Tom McMahon |
|
This campaign is your campaign,
and the victory we celebrated last night is your victory. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Now, thanks to you, the tide is turning in this race. We never stopped believing in one another, never doubted that we could count on each other. You didn't quit, and when I'm president, I promise I won't quit on you. Now with the next critical contests right around the corner, we need your immediate help to build on the hard-earned momentum of our Pennsylvania victory and continue our success all the way to the nomination. Contribute today to help carry our momentum
to Indiana, North Carolina, West Virginia, and beyond. Even though the Obama campaign went for broke trying to knock us out of the race, the people of Pennsylvania had other ideas. We connected with Pennsylvania families who know they need a strong leader who's on their side to turn around the battered Bush economy and end President Bush's disastrous war in Iraq. And as this redefined contest moves across the country, we'll keep connecting. I'm in this race to fight for you. And you know you can count on me to keep fighting for you every day. And as long as we keep working together, we'll wrest control of the White House from the Republicans and defeat John McCain. I'm going to continue to rely on your heart and your spirit every step of the way. Contribute now, and together, we can carry our winning message to victory. Thanks to you, we're on a roll. And with your immediate help, we'll keep moving forward until we've won the Democratic nomination, won the November election, and earned the opportunity to lead America in a new, more promising direction. Thanks so much for believing in me and believing in how much we can accomplish if we keep pulling together. Sincerely, |
|
FLOOR SCHEDULE FOR THURSDAY,
APRIL 24, 2008 --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
House Meets At…
Last Vote Predicted…
10:00 a.m.: Legislative Business
Five “One Minutes” Per Side 4:00 p.m.
H.R. 2830 - Coast Guard Authorization Act
of 2008 (Rep. Oberstar – Transportation and Infrastructure)
(Complete Consideration)
* Oberstar Amendment/Manager’s Amendment
(10 minutes) |
|
Senate takes up pay disparity -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://ap.google.com/article/ALeqM5gGxCduTNHucNjH3jSI9YNg-t0EZwD907OO782
|
|
House challenges administration
on Medicaid rules -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://ap.google.com/article/ALeqM5hP3Ugw6k6V7Ep9S86hHJ73hyERGQD907PL480
|
|
Education bills pass House,
move to Senate -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://www.bizjournals.com/denver/stories/2008/04/21/daily37.html
|
|
Recount under way in Zimbabwe
election -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://www.radioaustralia.net.au/news/stories/200804/s2225906.htm?tab=latest
|
|
Hillary On Track To Raise
$10 Million Since Polls Closed Yesterday -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://tpmelectioncentral.talkingpointsm...._raise_10_m.php
|
|
Presidential Candidates Focus
On North Carolina And Indiana -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://www.digtriad.com/news/local_state/article.aspx?storyid=102268&catid=57
|
|
The night of our great Pennsylvania
victory, my thoughts turned to all the people who had worked
so hard and given so much to make that celebration possible. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- I recorded a special message for my online supporters that evening, and I'd like you to take a look. And I hope that you will make a contribution today to keep our incredible momentum from Pennsylvania going -- straight through to Pennsylvania Avenue! Click here to watch the video and make
a contribution to drive our campaign forward. Thank you so much for everything. Sincerely, |
|
C-SPAN Daily Alert -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- C-SPAN Highlights Tonight: Tomorrow: Tonight: Tomorrow: Tonight: Tomorrow: Tonight: Tomorrow: * Road to the White House - Sun. on C-SPAN
at 6:30pm ET * Newspaper Articles & Viewer Calls ********************************************************************** * With a deal on a new farm bill in sight, the Senate on Thursday passed a fourth short-term extension of current farm law. The House later cleared the measure. House-Senate negotiators continued to meet...- Full Story at www.c-span.org/capitolspotlight/ * Which North Carolina Democrat ran as
a “favorite son” candidate in the state’s 1972
Democratic presidential primary? - Answer at www.c-span.org/capitolspotlight/
|
|
Black Caucus urges Bush to
take 'decisive action' on Haiti -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://sunstkitts.com/paper/?asknw=view&....SKNW&freepass=1
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|
North Carolina Primary Facts
and Figures -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://www.usnews.com/articles/news/camp....nd-figures.html
|
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FACTBOX: Which Democrat has
won each primary and caucus? -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://www.reuters.com/article/topNews/idUSN2344685020080424
|
|
Senate Passes Genetic Antidiscrimination
Bill -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://www.sciam.com/article.cfm?id=senate-passes-genetic-ant
|
|
Senate panel advances state
secrets bill -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://ap.google.com/article/ALeqM5jmVPjXxYW-beXA605mmaMrewjxygD908G5D01
|
|
Senate passes bill boosting
veterans benefits -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://ap.google.com/article/ALeqM5gPkz8N3AwJAycbIoUBIYXtMl08qwD908D35O0
|
|
Another Poll Shows Close Race
In Indiana -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://tpmelectioncentral.talkingpointsm...._close_race.php
|
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I've known and admired Barack
Obama for years. And since he became my fellow Senator from Illinois,
I've had the opportunity to work with him very closely. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Getting to know Barack has only strengthened my opinion of his leadership and his unique ability to bring this country together. If you haven't already, I hope you'll join me in supporting his candidacy and building the movement for change he has inspired across this country. One thing I've learned about politics is that there's no more effective way to bring about change than talking to your fellow voters face-to-face. And over the next twelve days, we've got a great opportunity to connect with voters in Indiana and support real change. Join me in taking a trip to Indiana and canvassing for Barack Obama: http://my.BarackObama.com/CometoIN The Indiana primary is less than two weeks away, and we've got a crucial opportunity to support Barack. His campaign has already captured the imagination of millions of voters, young and old, all across America. That's good for our party and good for our country -- but it won't happen in Indiana without your help. Will you take a trip to the Hoosier State to canvass for Barack before the May 6th primary? http://my.BarackObama.com/CometoIN These days, it's rare to have direct person-to-person contact -- there are so many other ways to communicate. Everywhere I've canvassed for Barack, people are amazed when they open the door and see a volunteer -- someone taking time out of his or her life to help bring about the change we believe in. But after they get over the surprise of the moment, they listen. Your words could make the difference for the people you talk to. And in a race this close, that personal connection could decide the outcome. Simply hop in your car and join an Obama canvass in Indiana: http://my.BarackObama.com/CometoIN Share the story of why you support Barack with voters in Indiana. Yours is the message that will build our movement in this crucial battleground state. In the final push before the Indiana primary, I'm doing everything I can to help Barack -- and I hope you'll do the same. Thanks, Dick Dick Durbin P.S. -- If you can't make the trip to Indiana, or if you want to reach out to Indiana voters from your own home, you can make calls every day through May 6th. Barack's campaign has an online tool you can use to call potential supporters in the Hoosier State. All you need is a phone and a connection to the Internet. When you sign in, you'll get a list of names and numbers of Indiana voters and a simple script you can follow. Pick up the phone and start making calls right now: http://my.BarackObama.com/IndianaCall
|
|
C-SPAN Weekend Alert -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- C-SPAN Highlights Friday: Saturday: Sunday: Monday: Friday: Saturday: Monday: ********************************************************************** Friday: Saturday: Sunday: Monday: Saturday: Sunday: Monday: * RWH: Democratic Campaign Events in Indiana
- Sun., C-SPAN, 6:30pm ET Saturday: Sunday: Monday: * As congressional Democrats debate when and how to advance a second economic stimulus package, President Bush announced Friday that tax rebates approved earlier this year will start going... - Full Story at www.c-span.org/capitolspotlight/ * A North Carolina primary played a key
role in the Republican presidential campaign in which year? -
Answer at www.c-span.org/capitolspotlight/ |
|
MESSAGE FROM THE MAJORITY
LEADER -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- This week, the House passed three bills that continue Democratic efforts to increase government accountability by holding federal contractors accountable and cracking down on waste, fraud, and abuse. We also passed a significant bill that will delay the implementation of Medicaid regulations proposed by the Bush Administration that would have a damaging impact on access to health care for millions. As we face a slowing economy and more people are uninsured, we cannot allow the most vulnerable Americans to slip through the cracks and lose the health care they need. Also this week, the House passed legislation that strengthens the Coast Guard as it plays an intregral role in keeping our nation safe by protecting our ports and waterways. Continuing our support for small businesses, we also passed legislation expanding programs that will increase their ability to engage in innovative research. Next week, the House will take up the Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act, an important civil rights bill that will prohibit employers from using the results of genetic screening tests when making hiring or promotion decisions. We will also take up legislation that will protect workers from the harmful conditions that caused a deadly explosion at a sugar plant in Georgia in February. As we face a weakening economy, rebate recovery checks will start being sent out on Monday. These checks are the result of the bipartisan economic stimulus package Congress passed earlier this year, and I am hopeful it will provide needed assistance to families and strengthen the economy. Additionally, Democrats are continuing to craft legislation that will help the millions of Americans affected by dropping home prices and record foreclosures, which I expect to bring to the House Floor soon.
Sincerely yours, P.S. Please invite your friends and family
to sign up for this newsletter to learn about what House Democrats
are doing to lead America in a new direction. |
|
Democrats Demand Probe Of
Oil-Market Speculation -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://online.wsj.com/article/SB120891152616136701.html?mod=googlenews_wsj
|
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Clinton’s Pennsylvania
Win Extends Democrats’ Nomination Race -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://www.america.gov/st/elections08-en....tml?CP.rss=true
|
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Senate Democrats to Push Tough
Stance With OPEC -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://online.wsj.com/article/SB120900772568840793.html?mod=googlenews_wsj
|
|
Patrick: Democrats will rally
behind Obama -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://www.boston.com/news/politics/poli....ck_democra.html
|
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Democrats push food safety
bill despite concerns -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://www.reuters.com/article/latestCrisis/idUSN23194016
|
|
Weekly Leader FRIDAY, APRIL
25, 2008 --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
First Vote of the Week…
Last Vote Predicted…
Tuesday 6:30 p.m.
Legislative Program - 51600 | Floor Information - 57400 | Whip Information - 63210 MONDAY, APRIL 28, 2008 The House is not in Session.
TUESDAY, APRIL 29, 2008 The House will meet at 12:30 p.m. for morning hour debate and 2:00 p.m. for legislative business. Votes will be postponed until 6:30 p.m.
Suspensions (13 Bills): 1) S. 2457 - A bill to provide for extensions
of leases of certain land by Mashantucket Pequot Tribe (Sen.
Lieberman – Natural Resources) 2) H.R. 3522 - To ratify a conveyance of
a portion of the Jicarilla Apache Reservation to Rio Arriba County,
State of New Mexico, pursuant to the settlement of litigation
between the Jicarilla Apache Nation and Rio Arriba County, State
of New Mexico, to authorize issuance of a patent for said lands,
and to change the exterior boundary of the Jicarilla Apache Reservation
accordingly, and for other purposes (Rep. Udall (NM) – Natural
Resources) 3) H.R. 3490 - Tuolumne Me-Wuk Land Transfer
Act of 2007 (Rep. Radanovich – Natural Resources) 4) H.Res. 1043 - Honoring the life and
legacy of Chief Standing Bear, a pioneer in civil rights for
Native Americans, on the 100th anniversary of Chief Standing
Bear's death (Rep. Fortenberry – Natural Resources) 5) S. 2739 - Consolidated Natural Resources
Act of 2008 (Sen. Bingaman – Natural Resources) 6) H.R. 5519 - Credit Union Regulatory
Relief Act of 2008 (Rep. Kanjorski – Financial Services) 7) H.Res. 1079 - Supporting the goals and
ideals of Financial Literacy Month 2008 Financial Literacy (Rep.
Hinojosa – Financial Services) 8) H.R. 4332 - Financial Consumer Hotline
Act of 2007 (Rep. Maloney – Financial Services) 9) H.Res. 578 - Expressing the sense of
the House of Representatives that there should be established
a National Watermelon Month (Rep. Putnam – Oversight and
Government Reform) 10) H.Res. 892 - Expressing support for
designation of March 11, 2008, as "National Funeral Director
and Mortician Recognition Day (Rep. Wilson (OH) – Oversight
and Government Reform) 11) H.Res. 1073 - Expressing the sense
of the House of Representatives that public servants should be
commended for their dedication and continued service to the Nation
during Public Service Recognition Week, May 5 through 11, 2008
(Rep. Davis (IL) – Oversight and Government Reform) 12) H.Res. 49 - Expressing the sense of
the House of Representatives that there should be established
a National Letter Carriers Appreciation Day (Rep. Camp –
Oversight and Government Reform) 13) H.R. 5631 - To designate the facility
of the United States Postal Service located at 1155 Seminole
Trail in Charlottesville, Virginia, as the "Corporal Bradley
T. Arms Post Office Building". (Rep. Goode – Oversight
and Government Reform)
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 30, 2008 AND THE BALANCE OF THE WEEK On Wednesday, the House will convene at 10:00 a.m. and recess immediately. The House will then reconvene at approximately 10:40 a.m. in a Joint Meeting with the Senate to receive His Excellency, Bertie Ahern, Prime Minister of Ireland. On Thursday, the House will meet at 10:00 a.m. for legislative business. On Friday, no votes are expected in the House.
Suspensions (11 Bills): 1) H.R. 1195 - To amend the Safe, Accountable,
Flexible, Efficient Transportation Equity Act: A Legacy for Users
to make technical corrections, and for other purposes (Rep. Oberstar
– Transportation and Infrastructure) 2) H.Con.Res. 308 - Authorizing the use
of the Capitol Grounds for the National Peace Officers’
Memorial Service (Rep. Norton - Transportation and Infrastructure) 3) H.Res. 444 - Supporting the goals and
ideals of National Aviation Maintenance Technician Day, honoring
the invaluable contributions of Charles Edward Taylor, regarded
as the father of aviation maintenance, and recognizing the essential
role of aviation maintenance technicians in ensuring the safety
and security of civil and military aircraft (Rep. Filner - Transportation
and Infrastructure) 4) H.Res. 964 - Promoting the safe operation
of 15-passenger vans (Rep. Duncan- Transportation and Infrastructure) 5) H.R. 1777 - Need-Based Educational Aid
Act of 2007 (Rep. Delahunt – Judiciary) 6) H.Con.Res. 330 - Supporting the goals
and ideals of National Sexual Assault Awareness and Prevention
Month (Rep. Baldwin – Judiciary) 7) H.Res. 1096 - Commending the University
of Kansas Jayhawks for winning the 2008 National Collegiate Athletic
Association Division I basketball championship (Rep. Moore (KS)
– Education and Labor) 8) H.Res. 1130 - Recognizing the roles
and contributions of America's teachers to building and enhancing
our Nation's civic, cultural, and economic well being. (Rep.
Graves – Education and Labor) 9) H.Res. 1100 - Congratulating the University
of Iowa Hawkeyes Wrestling Team on Winning the 2008 NCAA Division
I National Wrestling Championships (Rep. Loebsack – Education
and Labor) 10) H.Res. 1119 - Supporting the goals
and ideals highlighted through National Volunteer Week (Rep.
Platts – Education and Labor) 11) H.Res. 1149 - Expressing support for
the designation of April 2008 as National Sarcoidosis Awareness
Month, and supporting efforts to devote new resources to research
the causes of the disease, environmental and otherwise, along
with treatments and workforce strategies to support individuals
with sarcoidosis (Rep. Davis (IL) – Education and Labor)
H.R. 5522 – Worker Protection Against
Combustible Dust Explosion and Fire Act of 2008 (Rep. George
Miller (CA) – Education and Labor) (Subject to a Rule)
H.R. 493 – Genetic Information Nondiscrimination
Act as Amended (Rep. Slaughter – Education and Labor) (Subject
to a Rule) |
|
Democrats: Investigate gas
prices -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://weblogs.baltimoresun.com/news/pol....rown_house.html
|
|
Clinton to Obama: Let's debate
like Lincoln -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://www.cnn.com/2008/POLITICS/04/26/obama.debate/index.html
|
|
Polls: Clinton, Obama in tight
race in Indiana -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://www.cnn.com/2008/POLITICS/04/25/campaign.wrap/index.html WASHINGTON (CNN) -- Three days after Sen.
Hillary Clinton's win in Pennsylvania, a new CNN "poll of
polls" shows a dead heat in Indiana ahead of the May 6 primary,
the next crucial battleground that could decide the Democratic
presidential nomination. |
|
Wright addresses NAACP dinner -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (CNN) — Democratic presidential candidate Sen. Barack Obama’s former pastor told an audience of thousands at an NAACP dinner Sunday that he was “descriptive” but “not divisive.” “I describe the conditions in this country,” the Rev. Jeremiah Wright said during his lively keynote address at the 53rd NAACP’s Freedom Fund dinner in Detroit, Michigan. “Conditions divide, not my descriptions,” he said. “I am sorry your local political analysts
and your neighboring county executives think my being here is
polarizing and my sermons are divisive, but I’m not here
to address an analyst’s opinion,” he said. “I
am here to address your 2008 theme … (of) change is going
to come.” |
|
Iraq’s prime minister
lays out four conditions to stop Baghdad fighting -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- BAGHDAD (CNN) — An adviser to Iraq’s Prime Minister Nuri al-Maliki told CNN Sunday that military assaults against militias in Baghdad will end if the militias meet four conditions. The militias must disarm, hand over those wanted, and keep out of the affairs of Iraqi security forces and government institutions, al-Maliki’s adviser said. Radical Shiite cleric Muqtada al-Sadr — whose followers compose one of the most prominent militias — swiftly rejected the idea. “Al-Maliki’s logic is for the
government to do what it wants and the way it wants,” said
Sheikh Salah al-Obaidi, a top aide to al-Sadr. |
|
Congressional Black Caucus
Urges Decisive US Assistance to Haiti -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://www.larouchepub.com/pr/2008/080424bl_caucus_haiti.html
|
|
Guam Democratic Caucus Vote
For US Presidential Nominee Currently ... -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://www.pacificnewscenter.com/link.as....eyword=&sidate=
|
|
Presidential Candidates’
Views on Israel and Palestine: Same Old ... -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://www.wrmea.com/archives/April_2008/0804030b.html
|
|
Both Democratic presidential
candidates in Indiana -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://www.wlfi.com/Global/story.asp?S=8225490&nav=menu591_3
|
|
John Kerry ship strike legislation
passes Senate committee -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://news.bostonherald.com/news/nation....position=recent
|
|
Tentative Deal Reached in
Congress on Farm Bill -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://www.nytimes.com/2008/04/26/washington/26farm.html?ref=us
|
|
US Presidential Election 2008:
Guam Caucus, The Main Event Begins -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://www.pacificnewscenter.com/link.as....eyword=&sidate= |
|
Obama Picks Up Superdelegate -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://thecaucus.blogs.nytimes.com/2008/04/26/obama-picks-up-superdelegate/
|
|
Democracy activist will receive
medal -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://www.courier-journal.com/apps/pbcs....474/1008/NEWS01
|
|
"Cover the Uninsured
Week" 2008 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- “Today marks the beginning of ‘Cover the Uninsured Week,’ which is designed to remind us of the plight of the 47 million Americans who lack health insurance – despite living in the richest country in the world. Since President Bush took office, 8 million more Americans have joined them. That is nothing less than a national embarrassment. “Worst of all, 9 million uninsured Americans are children. Democrats in Congress have worked hard to help them get them the medical care they need by focusing on the State Children’s Health Insurance Program (SCHIP). SCHIP is vital for providing health care to low-income American children: Without it, the number of children with no health insurance would be even higher than its already shameful rate. That’s why Democrats have made it a priority to fully fund and strengthen SCHIP – because it is both the right thing to do and a reflection of our values. “Sadly, our efforts for uninsured children have been repeatedly blocked by President Bush and Congressional Republicans. Even though bipartisan majorities in both chambers supported an expansion of SCHIP, President Bush vetoed it – twice. “Democrats strongly disagree with the President’s position. We have an obligation to protect those who cannot protect themselves, and we will continue to fight until every child in America gets the medical care that he or she needs and deserves.”
### |
|
I've just wrapped up a weekend
tour of Indiana, and I wanted to let you know about where we
stand in this battleground state. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- All across Indiana, I've spoken to veterans, students, and factory workers about the challenges small-town America is facing -- and about how we're going to start solving them. I see the excitement on the ground, and I truly believe Indiana is ready to stand up for a different kind of politics. But only if people like you get involved and take ownership of this effort. This coming weekend -- and especially next Monday and Tuesday -- supporters across the country will be coming to Indiana to knock on doors, make phone calls, and Get Out The Vote for Primary Day on May 6th. They need your help to reach as many Hoosiers as possible. I know this is a big decision. But what's brought our campaign where we are today is that so many people -- including many who never thought they'd get involved in politics in their lifetime -- have taken that leap to help us succeed. We need to finish strong in the Hoosier State, so I hope you'll sign up to take the trip in the coming days: http://my.barackobama.com/CometoIN People are paying attention to what happens in Indiana this week. They know how far we've traveled together, but they want to know whether we can close this race, secure the nomination, and finally bring about the change our country so desperately needs. We can bring jobs back to communities across America, reduce the price of gas, and put an end to the war in Iraq -- and it all begins in Indiana. In the next eight days. I hope you'll join us. Barack |
|
C-SPAN Daily Alert -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- C-SPAN Highlights Tonight: Tomorrow: Tonight: Tomorrow: Tonight: Tomorrow: Tonight: Tomorrow: * Road to the White House - Sun. on C-SPAN
at 6:30pm ET * Newspaper Articles & Viewer Calls * The Supreme Court ruled Monday that states can require voters to show photo identification at the polls, in a closely watched case with important ramifications for the 2008 elections...- Full Story at www.c-span.org/capitolspotlight/ * What was the last election year in which
a party gained more than eight U.S. Senate seats? - Answer at
www.c-span.org/capitolspotlight/ |
|
‘Unfortunate’ Supreme
Court Decision on Voter ID -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- “Today’s decision by the Supreme Court is extremely unfortunate, and in my view, counter-productive. Restrictive voter identification laws result in registered voters being denied their right to vote, which is simply unacceptable. These laws place an undue burden on voters, and suppress the turnout of minority and elderly Americans. Additionally, there has been no evidence of voter fraud in Indiana that would necessitate such a law. “Voting is the most fundamental right held by Americans. We must do all we can to ensure that every American citizen is able to make their voice heard in our democracy through the voting booth.”
### |
|
Obama Advisers See Need To
Improve His Efforts With Blue Collar Voters -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://tpmelectioncentral.talkingpointsm....need_to_imp.php
|
|
FLOOR SCHEDULE FOR TUESDAY,
APRIL 29, 2008 --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
House Meets At…
Last Vote Predicted…
12:30 p.m.: Morning Hour 2:00 p.m.: Legislative Business
Unlimited “One Minutes” Per Side 7:00 p.m.
Votes will be postponed until 6:30 p.m.
Suspensions (12 Bills): 1) S. 2457 - A bill to provide for extensions
of leases of certain land by Mashantucket Pequot Tribe (Sen.
Lieberman – Natural Resources) 2) H.R. 3522 - To ratify a conveyance of
a portion of the Jicarilla Apache Reservation to Rio Arriba County,
State of New Mexico, pursuant to the settlement of litigation
between the Jicarilla Apache Nation and Rio Arriba County, State
of New Mexico, to authorize issuance of a patent for said lands,
and to change the exterior boundary of the Jicarilla Apache Reservation
accordingly, and for other purposes (Rep. Udall (NM) – Natural
Resources) 3) H.R. 3490 - Tuolumne Me-Wuk Land Transfer
Act of 2007 (Rep. Radanovich – Natural Resources) 4) H.Res. 1043 - Honoring the life and
legacy of Chief Standing Bear, a pioneer in civil rights for
Native Americans, on the 100th anniversary of Chief Standing
Bear's death (Rep. Fortenberry – Natural Resources) 5) S. 2739 - Consolidated Natural Resources
Act of 2008 (Sen. Bingaman – Natural Resources) 6) H.Res. 1079 - Supporting the goals and
ideals of Financial Literacy Month 2008 Financial Literacy (Rep.
Hinojosa – Financial Services) 7) H.R. 4332 - Financial Consumer Hotline
Act of 2007 (Rep. Maloney – Financial Services) 8) H.Res. 578 - Expressing the sense of
the House of Representatives that there should be established
a National Watermelon Month (Rep. Putnam – Oversight and
Government Reform) 9) H.Res. 892 - Expressing support for
designation of March 11, 2008, as "National Funeral Director
and Mortician Recognition Day (Rep. Wilson (OH) – Oversight
and Government Reform) 10) H.Res. 1073 - Expressing the sense
of the House of Representatives that public servants should be
commended for their dedication and continued service to the Nation
during Public Service Recognition Week, May 5 through 11, 2008
(Rep. Davis (IL) – Oversight and Government Reform) 11) H.Res. 49 - Expressing the sense of
the House of Representatives that there should be established
a National Letter Carriers Appreciation Day (Rep. Camp –
Oversight and Government Reform) 12) H.R. 5631 - To designate the facility
of the United States Postal Service located at 1155 Seminole
Trail in Charlottesville, Virginia, as the "Corporal Bradley
T. Arms Post Office Building". (Rep. Goode – Oversight
and Government Reform) |
|
Indiana voter ID law ruled
constitutional -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- WASHINGTON (CNN) — The Supreme Court on Monday backed Indiana’s law requiring voters to show photo identification, despite concerns thousands of elderly, poor, and minority voters could be locked out of their right to cast ballots. The 6-3 vote allows Indiana to require the identification when it holds its statewide primary next month. It also will give most state legislatures time to revise their voter laws for the November elections, if they choose to do so. At issue was whether state laws designed to stem voter fraud end up disenfranchising large groups of Americans who might lack proper documents to prove they are eligible to vote. The justices wrestled with a balancing test of sorts to ensure both state and individual voter interests were addressed, in what has become a highly partisan legal and political fight. –From Bill Mears, CNN Supreme Court
Producer |
|
Next week, we have the opportunity
to close out this race and secure the nomination for Barack --
but there's another deadline coming up even sooner. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Financial reports for April will be filed this Wednesday at midnight. The media pundits and Washington insiders will be watching the results and judging the strength of our campaign by the money we raise. But what's most impressive about our movement is that our funding has come from grassroots supporters like you. We've never accepted donations from Washington lobbyists or special interest PACs. Instead, more than 1,500,000 ordinary people have stepped up to own a piece of this campaign. To meet this deadline and celebrate our grassroots donors, we've created a special gift. Make a donation of $15 or more before midnight on Wednesday, April 30th, and receive a limited edition Vote for Change car magnet: https://donate.barackobama.com/magnet The crucial North Carolina and Indiana primaries will require unprecedented resources. But we also need to start preparing for the general election. We're building a powerful grassroots movement in all 50 states -- organizing communities, registering voters, and bringing new voices into the political process. We have accomplished so much, but we need your support today -- to finish this contest, and to get ready to take on Senator McCain. Help grow our movement at this critical time, and be part of history by joining 1,500,000 other Americans who are supporting this campaign. Contribute $15 or more before midnight on April 30th. You'll own a piece of this campaign and you'll receive a Vote for Change car magnet to show your support in style: https://donate.barackobama.com/magnet Thank you, Obama for America |
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Senate Clears Procedural Step
On FAA Authorization -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://money.cnn.com/news/newsfeeds/arti....18_FORTUNE5.htm
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Obama Pulls Ahead in Senate
Support Race -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://www.truthdig.com/eartotheground/i....senate_support/
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Obama to pick up another superdelegate -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- WASHINGTON (CNN) — Barack Obama will be endorsed Tuesday by Kentucky Rep. Ben Chandler, one of the party’s superdelegates, three weeks before voters from his state head to the polls in the marathon march to the Democratic presidential nomination, an aide to the Illinois senator told CNN. Chandler, whose district includes the city of Lexington — home of the University of Kentucky — and the state capital, Frankfort, was first elected in February 2004 in a special election to fill the seat of retiring GOP Rep. Ernie Fletcher. Fletcher had defeated Chandler in the gubernatorial race months earlier. Chandler joins fellow Democratic Rep. John Yarmuth as the second Kentucky superdelegate to endorse Obama. Sen. Hillary Clinton has the backing of three other Kentucky superdelegates, leaving three — including sitting Gov. Steve Beshear — undeclared. – From CNN Political Editor Mark Preston |
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Iraqi court in session in
Aziz case -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- BAGHDAD (CNN) — The court that is trying Tariq Aziz, one of the best-known faces of Saddam Hussein’s former regime in Iraq, is now in session. Aziz and seven others are accused of having a role in the execution of 42 Iraqi merchants in 1992. A former deputy prime minister, Aziz was
the first to be called into court, followed by six of the other
defendants. He appeared frail, walked slowly with a cane, and
was coughing and blowing his nose. He wore a brown suit. His
pants were tucked into his socks and his shoes appeared too big. |
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Presidential candidates clash
on gas-tax holiday -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (CNN) — Sens. Hillary Clinton and John McCain are pushing for a gas-tax holiday, but Sen. Barack Obama says the plan is a quick fix that would do more harm than good. McCain, the presumptive Republican nominee, would lift the 18.4 cents per gallon tax during peak summer travel months. He also would suspend the 24.4 cent diesel tax. Clinton, who rejected a similar idea in 2000, said her plan has an added facet to make up what she said is the $10 billion that the Republican’s proposal would cost the government — money that is used to improve roads. She said she’d make up for the lost revenue with a “windfall profits tax” on oil companies — subjecting their profits over a certain amount to a 50 percent tax. Obama does not support a suspension of
the gas tax, which he described as a political scheme that would
save the average driver $25 to $28. |
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Foreclosures jump 112 percent
in first quarter compared to last year -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- NEW YORK (CNNMoney.com) — One out of every 194 U.S. households received a foreclosure filing in the first three months of 2008, according to the latest figures released Tuesday by RealtyTrac. There were nearly 650,000 foreclosure filings — which include notices of default, auction sales and bank repossessions — issued during the first quarter of 2008. That’s up 23 percent from the last quarter of 2007, and up a staggering 112 percent from the same period a year ago. So far this year 156,463 families have lost their homes to bank repossessions. –By CNNMoney.com’s Les Christie |
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United Nations to establish
task force on global food crisis -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (CNN) — The United Nations is establishing a task force to address the global food crisis, which is “increasingly resulting in social tension,” the organization said Tuesday. “Mounting hunger and increasing evidence of severe malnutrition is evident and the capacities of humanitarian agencies to meet these needs is under severe strain, particularly as pledged funding remains undelivered,” the U.N. Chief Executives Board said in a communique. The task force’s first priority will be to meet the World Food Programme’s emergency requirement of $775 million, Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon said a news conference in Bern, Switzerland. “The first and immediate priority
issue that we all agreed was that we must feed the hungry,”
Ban said. |
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Consumer confidence drops
to lowest level since 2003 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- NEW YORK (CNNMoney.com) — A key measure of consumer confidence slipped in April to the lowest level in five years, as Americans worry about their jobs and the level of business activity. The New York-based Conference Board said Tuesday that its Consumer Confidence Index dropped to 62.3, the lowest level since March 2003, from a revised 65.9 in March. Analysts had expected the index to decline to 61, according to a consensus compiled by Briefing.com. The index edged up in December, but has
now declined for four months in a row. |
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NC Governor Endorses Clinton -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://news.google.com/news/url?sa=t&ct=....6VDDpOtx-d2Q9OQ
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Clinton to talk at middle
school -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://news.google.com/news/url?sa=t&ct=....0dNkPGEf3NHPAqg
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Report: Iraq windfall soars
with oil prices -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://www.cnn.com/2008/POLITICS/04/29/iraq.windfall/index.html
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Polls: Clinton, Obama tied
in Indiana -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (CNN) – Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama are dead-even in the crucial primary state of Indiana, according to a new CNN "poll of polls." read at source> http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/200....ied-in-indiana/
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Obama praised for rebuking
his pastor -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://news.google.com/news/url?sa=t&ct=....
vHQLwc5uj_PoYQ |
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Obama assails lifting of gas
tax as 'gimmick' -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://news.google.com/news/url?sa=t&ct=....k
ybKeL6B_7U8uA |
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Two pro-Clintons ads launched
in Indiana -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://news.google.com/news/url?sa=t&ct=....MWH4mMfFguR
NYg |
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Obama gets big Kentucky endorsement -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://news.google.com/news/url?sa=t&ct=....rcVM4wZj3WxVkxg
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President’s Remarks on
the Economy -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- “The President’s comments on the economy today clearly demonstrate why his popularity is at record lows in national polls now, and why his Administration will be viewed by historians as a failure. The President has proclaimed that he is the ‘Decider,’ but this morning all he tried to do is pass the buck to someone else rather than accept responsibility for his Administration’s failed economic policies and escalating gas prices. “There is no question that this President will hand off an economy to his successor that is much weaker than the one he inherited. Today, household incomes are down, the poverty rate is up, eight million more Americans are uninsured, the economy has lost more than 3 million manufacturing jobs, gasoline and food prices are exploding, and the budget deficit and national debt are spiraling out of control. “For his first six years in office, the President and the Republican Majorities in Congress did virtually nothing to address gasoline prices and to make America more energy independent. Then, with new Democratic Majorities in Congress, we passed landmark energy legislation that will increase fuel economy and invest in renewable and alternative fuel sources. “Democrats continue to fight for measures that seek to hold down gas prices, such as holding OPEC accountable for price fixing, cracking down on price gouging, and repealing subsidies to oil companies that are enjoying record profits. In addition, we have urged the Federal Trade Commission to implement provisions in the energy bill enacted last year to stop market manipulation. Yet, most Republicans oppose our efforts. “The objective economic indicators demonstrate that this Administration’s policies have failed America. The last thing the American people need is the ‘third term’ of the Bush Administration promised by Senator McCain. Democrats believe it is imperative that we move our nation in a new direction.”
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C-SPAN Daily Alert -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- C-SPAN Highlights Tonight: Tomorrow: Tonight: Tomorrow: Tonight: Tomorrow: Tonight: Tomorrow: * Sen. Obama (D-IL) News Conference on
Rev. Wright Comments - C-SPAN at 12am ET * Newspaper Articles & Viewer Calls * Democratic leaders said Tuesday the emergency supplemental bill for war funding would be unveiled in the House next week after discussions involving Democrats from both chambers...- Full Story at www.c-span.org/capitolspotlight/ * Of the 30 formerly Republican House seats
captured by Democrats in 2006, how many favored President Bush
in 2004? - Answer at www.c-span.org/capitolspotlight/ |
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FACTBOX-US presidential candidates
on gas prices -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://uk.reuters.com/article/oilRpt/idUKN2849693920080428
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Yesterday, Governor Dean sent
around our second national television ad. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- It's one of the most powerful television spots Americans will see this year. It's simple, and it's brutally honest. It rocked the McCain campaign, because they know they'll spend the every day through November dealing with the fallout. This is the ad the Republican National Committee is working around the clock to stop, even threatening legal action against television stations that air this spot. That's how worried about it they are. If you haven't seen it yet, watch it now, and send it to everyone you know: http://www.democrats.org/IraqAd We can't afford to let-up. Watch the ad, and make a contribution to help us stay on the air by tomorrow, April 30. Tom McMahon |
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FLOOR SCHEDULE FOR WEDNESDAY,
APRIL 30, 2008 --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
House Meets At…
Last Vote Predicted…
10:00 a.m.: Legislative Business
Fifteen “One Minutes” Per Side 7:00 p.m.
On Wednesday, the House will convene at 10:00 a.m. and recess immediately. The House will then reconvene at approximately 10:40 a.m. in a Joint Meeting with the Senate to receive His Excellency, Bertie Ahern, Prime Minister of Ireland. Members are encouraged to be in the Chamber no later than 10:45 a.m.
Suspensions (13 Bills): 1) H.R. 1195 - To amend the Safe, Accountable,
Flexible, Efficient Transportation Equity Act: A Legacy for Users
to make technical corrections, and for other purposes (Rep. Oberstar
– Transportation and Infrastructure) 2) H.Con.Res. 308 - Authorizing the use
of the Capitol Grounds for the National Peace Officers’
Memorial Service (Rep. Norton - Transportation and Infrastructure) 3) H.Res. 444 - Supporting the goals and
ideals of National Aviation Maintenance Technician Day, honoring
the invaluable contributions of Charles Edward Taylor, regarded
as the father of aviation maintenance, and recognizing the essential
role of aviation maintenance technicians in ensuring the safety
and security of civil and military aircraft (Rep. Filner - Transportation
and Infrastructure) 4) H.Res. 964 - Promoting the safe operation
of 15-passenger vans (Rep. Duncan - Transportation and Infrastructure) 5) H.R. 5919 - To make technical corrections
regarding the “Newborn Screening Saves Lives Act of 2007”
(Rep. Roybal-Allard – Energy and Commerce) 6) H.R. 1777 - Need-Based Educational Aid
Act of 2007 (Rep. Delahunt – Judiciary) 7) H.Con.Res. 330 - Supporting the goals
and ideals of National Sexual Assault Awareness and Prevention
Month (Rep. Baldwin – Judiciary) 8) H.Res. 1096 - Commending the University
of Kansas Jayhawks for winning the 2008 National Collegiate Athletic
Association Division I basketball championship (Rep. Moore (KS)
– Education and Labor) 9) H.Res. 1130 - Recognizing the roles
and contributions of America's teachers to building and enhancing
our Nation's civic, cultural, and economic well being. (Rep.
Graves – Education and Labor) 10) H.Res. 1100 - Congratulating the University
of Iowa Hawkeyes Wrestling Team on Winning the 2008 NCAA Division
I National Wrestling Championships (Rep. Loebsack – Education
and Labor) 11) H.Res. 1119 - Supporting the goals
and ideals highlighted through National Volunteer Week (Rep.
Platts – Education and Labor) 12) H.Res. 1149 - Expressing support for
the designation of April 2008 as National Sarcoidosis Awareness
Month, and supporting efforts to devote new resources to research
the causes of the disease, environmental and otherwise, along
with treatments and workforce strategies to support individuals
with sarcoidosis (Rep. Davis (IL) – Education and Labor) 13) H.Res. 1154 - Supporting the mission
and goals of Workers Memorial Day in order to honor and remember
the workers who have been killed or injured in the workplace
(Rep. Eddie Bernice Johnson (TX) – Education and Labor)
H.R. 5522 – Worker Protection Against
Combustible Dust Explosion and Fire Act of 2008 (Rep. George
Miller (CA) – Education and Labor) (Subject to a Rule)
Motion to Go to Conference on H.R. 4040
- The Consumer Product Safety Modernization Act of 2007 (Rep.
Rush – Energy and Commerce) Motion to Instruct Conferees.
Flake Motion to Instruct Conferees on H.R.
2419 Food and Energy Security Act of 2007 (Rep. Peterson –
Agriculture)
Ryan (WI) Motion to Instruct Conferees
on H.R. 2419 Food and Energy Security Act of 2007 (Rep. Peterson
– Agriculture) |
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Clinton: Democrats must back
nominee -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- read at source> http://weblogs.chicagotribune.com/news/p....st_back_no.html
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U.S. Senate takes aim at credit
card companies -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- NEW YORK (CNNMoney.com) — A group of Democratic lawmakers unveiled sweeping legislation Wednesday that promises to shield consumers from harmful, and in some instances predatory, practices by the credit card industry. Introduced by Sen. Christopher Dodd, D-Connecticut, the Credit Card Accountability, Responsibility and Disclosure — CARD — Act would take aim at industry billing, marketing and disclosure practices at a time when credit card debt has become an issue of importance to a growing number of Americans. “This bill will stop abusive credit card practices that drag so many Americans and their families further and further into debt,” said Dodd, who chairs the Senate Banking Committee. The proposed legislation would prohibit issuers from, among other things, engaging in practices like charging customers fees to pay bills by phone or “universal default,” which allows an issuer to raise interest rates if a consumer is late paying any other bills. –From CNNMoney.com’s David Ellis |
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U.S. to withdraw diplomats
from Belarus, at its request -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- WASHINGTON (CNN) — The United States will comply with a request from the Belarusian government by withdrawing 10 U.S. diplomats from Minsk within 72 hours as part of an ongoing disagreement with the former Soviet republic, a State Department spokesman said Wednesday. Sean McCormack said he didn’t know why Wednesday’s request was made. “You can hypothesize that they weren’t happy about the fact that we continue to meet with those people in Belarusian political circles who have an interest in seeing greater political freedoms — freedom of expression and other kinds of freedoms — in Belarus,” McCormack said He also noted the United States is pushing
for the release of an American who in March was detained in Minsk
and placed in a psychiatric hospital. |
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Federal contracting chief
quits under fire -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- WASHINGTON (CNN) — The embattled head of the federal government’s top contracting agency has resigned amid multiple controversies over her leadership, including allegations that she tried to enlist agency officials to assist Republican political hopefuls. “It has been a great privilege to serve our nation and a great president,” Lurita Doan said in a statement released by the General Services Administration, which buys and manages billions of dollars worth of federal government property. Doan’s resignation comes 10 months
after the government’s Office of Special Counsel (OSC) recommended
to the White House that she be disciplined to the “fullest
extent” for violating federal laws against using government
employees for political purposes — a finding she denied. |
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Fed slices key interest rate
quarter percentage point, hints at pause -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- NEW YORK (CNNMoney.com) — The Federal Reserve cut its key interest rate by a quarter percentage point Wednesday, but the central bank’s statement signaled it may be the last rate cut for at least a while. The cut took the federal funds rate, the key overnight rate at which banks loan money to one another, to 2 percent. It had been at 5.25 percent as recently as September, when the Fed started slashing rates in an effort to spur the economy and keep the nation out of recession. The federal funds rate is a benchmark for home equity lines of credit, credit cards and other consumer loans as well as the prime rate used for short-term business loans. But the Fed’s statement suggested
that it needs to continue to closely monitor inflation pressures
and it dropped its previous mention of downside risks to growth.
Experts generally believe that type of language signals the central
bank is ready to pause for some time. |
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Londoners head to the polls
to elect mayor -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- LONDON, England (CNN) — Thursday’s election for London mayor is a race between two distinct characters — one of them a liberal incumbent who does deals with Venezuela’s Hugo Chavez, the other a mop-haired, politically-incorrect conservative with his own twist on politics. Ken Livingstone, 62, is hoping to win a third term in office but is facing a stiff challenge from former journalist Boris Johnson, 43. Trailing far behind Livingstone and Johnson
is Brian Paddick, 50, a former top police officer who is also
openly gay. Six other candidates are also in the race. |
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Mugabe’s party: Results
show a presidential run-off in Zimbabwe -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- JOHANNESBURG, South Africa (CNN) — A senior official with Zimbabwe’s ruling ZANU-PF party said Wednesday that opposition leader Morgan Tsvangirai and incumbent President Robert Mugabe must compete in a presidential run-off, based on election results in the party’s hands. Tsvangirai received 47 percent of the vote in last month’s election, while Mugabe received 43 percent, the senior official said. A candidate must receive 50 percent plus one vote to avoid a presidential run-off in Zimbabwe. As expected, a spokesman for Tsvangirai’s Movement for Democratic Change rejected ZANU-PF’s results as rigged and said the party would refuse to participate in any run-off vote. MDC maintains that, according to its count, Tsvangirai won 50.3 percent of the vote. Earlier in the day, the commission’s head, George Chiweshe, said ZEC will submit the results of the March 29 presidential race to the ruling and opposition parties on Thursday to begin the verification process. –From Nkepile Mabuse, CNN Correspondent |
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Palestinian factions agree
to “period of calm” in Gaza -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (CNN) — In a meeting Wednesday in Cairo, Egypt, Palestinian factions agreed to a Tahadiye, or period of calm, Hamas sources reported Wednesday. The agreement will apply for the first six months to Gaza, and after that to the West Bank, under the condition that Israel stop its operations, the sources said. Factions present at the meeting included Hamas, Islamic Jihad, the Popular Resistance Committee, the Al Aqsa Martyrs Brigade and the Salah A Din Brigade, among others. In response, Israeli government spokesman
Mark Regev said his nation seeks quiet in the south. For that,
Regev said, three things must happen: An end to hostile fire
from Gaza into Israel, an end to terror attacks and an end to
armed smuggling. Were those three things to take place, “we
could have quiet tomorrow,” he said. |
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Report: Taliban regaining
its hold on Afghanistan -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- WASHINGTON (CNN) — The Taliban in Afghanistan — whose government was toppled by U.S.-led forces after the September 11 attacks in 2001 — have strengthened their military and technical capabilities, while suffering heavy combat losses, says a State Department report released Wednesday. “Despite progress, the Taliban-led insurgency remained a capable, determined, and resilient threat to stability and to the expansion of government authority, particularly in the Pashtun south and east,” according to the “Country Reports on Terrorism 2007.” In addition, the Taliban’s information
operations have become “increasingly aggressive and sophisticated,”
and their ability to obtain al Qaeda support and recruit soldiers
from its base of rural Pashtuns is undiminished, the report says. |
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