In the aftermath of President Barack Obama's speech in Cairo, Egypt there are many things that happened and are currently happening. Frankly I and a few of my colleagues expected these issues to raise sooner or later. On June 3rd during his Middle East trip I received a letter from the White House and Obama in response to a previous letter I sent him concerning the Israel/Palestine issue. I stated that I looked forward to working together to solve the conflict. In his June 3rd reply he stated that now was "the time to work together" and I was ready to give it. However, on the 4th Obama stated in his speech that Israeli settlements in the West Bank would no longer be tolerated by the US. This stance I believe is "politically understandable" similar to what one journalist stated in Haaretz, because by showing that there is no favouritism given to Israel then that opens up real communication with other countries that are against Israel and think the US is bias on the subject of Israel. In addition, Obama stated in both his Cairo speech and restated in his Moscow speech that the days of one nation suppressing another nation are over. So from an outsiders perspective in the case of Israel when Israeli settlements are established within the UN set borders of the Palestinian people then those settlements are consider like an invasion and violation of a UN policy... and so must be removed. Obama has currently taken the position to reset Israel/ Palestinian borders to the original UN borders and also making Jerusalem an internationally or UN controlled city. This concepts comes from the Crusaders era when Jerusalem was established to be a Christian focus-point city (as displayed in most Byzantine and later European explorer maps of the area).
On June 3rd protesters in Israel gathered in front of the US Embassy in Jerusalem to speak against stopping settlement construction in the West Bank and shouted how Obama is anti-Semitic. I personally agree that settlement construction shouldn't be halted in the West Bank (I support Netanyahu's actions of approving new settlement construction and in a moment I will go into why the idea of halting settlements from a Torah view is out of the question), yet trying to accuse Obama of being anti-Semitic because he has an anti-settlement view isn't fair and more importantly is a contradiction because Obama's views on the subject came from both the Jewish advisors in his administration and a few Jewish foreign policy organizations in Israel that are promoting the idea of a West Bank Palestinian State. I think that people should remember that not too long ago PM Arial Sharon and President Bush were moving the very same plan across the table in Israel.... Obama is just considering if it should be continued. (I'm hoping that you will help me answer to him a NO! But also give another idea that could solve this conflict).
My communications with the US President have shown one consistency from him... he will only promote an idea that is supported by both the Israelis and Palestinians. So because the current idea of a Palestinian State in the West Bank is supported by both Israelis and Palestinians then that is what the US President will support. However, on the 7th of June I sent a letter to President Obama and the White House to express my opposition to his statement on Israeli settlements and to ask that he keep an open mind to other potential solutions to the two-state concept. One idea I requested that he review is the two-state solution proposed by Rabbi Howshua Amariel in which the Palestinian State would be setup in extended borders of the current Gaza strip and the West Bank area would be dissolved fully into the State of Israel. Within this proposal is the idea of fully helping setup a financial independent system for the Palestinian people.
On June 14th after Netanyahu's response to Obama's speech, I did an interview with Baruch Spier on Rusty Mike Radio.com in Jerusalem on my opinion of Obama's speech and the state solution concepts. I stated to Mr. Spier the same thing that I said to President Obama in my reply to him. I believe that his speech was very necessary for the Moslem world to hear and it was given in a way that only Barack Obama as president of the United States could have done. I think in that moment it was made clear to all those that supported or didn't support Obama why he was the right choice for the job. However, in the interview I also said that I didn't agree with the President's tough stance against settlements in the West Bank. In fact the promotion of a Palestinian state within the West Bank is only a temporary fix to a problem that goes much more deep than Obama is realizing. If we will solve this conflict it must be done showing a sincere respect for all religions involved rather than ignore them.... as if they don't matter when to every party involved they do. This conflict is based out of a religious concept rooted in the very essence of who the Jewish people are.
Ben-amen Netanyahu recently allowed for settlement constructions to continue in the West Bank.... WHY? For those of you who do not know this year is a Jubilee Year. The Jubilee year comes out of the Torah and basically states that every 50 years regardless of if one has sold there land or it was taken it is required that they or their relatives come back to reclaim it (either by purchase or force). Right now in Israel all sorts of properties are in review for future construction settlement projects and settlements within the West Bank are not excluded.
I find it funny that history has a habit of repeating and it seems that all of the usual players are in this same scenario today as was 2000 to 3000 years ago; a foreign Empire (US and European Union)..., the Jewish people....., and the Philistines (Keep in mind that in Arabic they don't call these people Palestinians... they call them Philistines and have done some for centuries.) The fact of the matter is that since the time of Joshua the Philistines have existed in the land... they were never conquered.. nor should they have been (they should only been kept out of the borders of the land of Israel).
If we review the history of the children of Israel and the Jewish people when it came to this land it is very clear that there is a pattern. Aside from the original possession of the land by Joshua and Israel; when Israel came from Babylon they rebuilt so much of their former land to the end that their neighbours wrote to the Emperor warning against Israel's habit of reclaiming their territory. This same pattern happened during Alexander the Great's reign and the Roman Empire's reign to the point that after 100AD Jews were restricted from the entire Judean area by Emperor Hadrian of Rome for this same fear incited by our Philistine neighbours. Yet that never stopped the Jewish people from returning time after time again to the land. Why? The Jubilee Year... So the idea of the UN that somehow the Jewish people will now forget this part of ourselves I think is very nieve.
In 1948 the UN divided the land borders of Israel into the Gaza Strip, Israel and the West Bank. Because the Palestinians stated that Israel took Ashkelon and Ashdod from them they went on a crusade to reclaim their former territory. Also because a very large portion of the mountains of the ancient land of Israel was given to the Palestinians... the Jewish settlers went on a crusade to reclaim them. Thus, since this conflict is largely based upon ancient territorial rights of both the parties then the true solution to the problem is to push the so called 'reset button' on borders back to the very ancient guidelines that motivate both parties.
Therefore, today I am announcing a new campaign that I am asking both Jews within Israel (right and left) to support. Leave your prejudices at the door! Because this is for all of those that share the views of President Obama in that the Palestinian (Philistine) people need their own state; view of Prime Minister Netanyahu's that such a state should be financial independent from the State of Israel and also for the benefit of the Palestinian people; and also the views of the Torah & Tanach in that the Palestinian & Israelite people were covenanted to respect each other's borders (according to treaty at the well in the South called Beer-Sheba or well of the oath between Abraham and the king of the Philistines).
I have spoke to about hundred people on this subject and although most begin the conversation with the thought that such a idea isn't realistic I say that the same could have been said about a Black President of the United States not too long ago. What determines if something is possible is only the willingness of the parties to make it possible. This idea is definitely possible... but the question for the Jews that believe this proposal is very controversial I ask you to consider what do you prefer... an undivided beach alone the coast or an undivided Jerusalem for the State of Israel.
As for the Palestinians that may so happen to read this who believe that this is just another way for Israel to gain control over you and your land... I say that this proposal has Israel concede just as much as the Palestinians will have to concede, but any other extra-requirements are accompanied by sufficient compensations enough to help every Palestinian family moved and the State as a whole achieve financial independence from the State of Israel. In other words this is a win-win situation.
I ask you all to support this new two-state proposal that will hold true to all of these ideas by establishing a Palestinian State in the Gaza Strip, but also return some borders along the coast that are proven to be the original land of their ancient people. This will fulfil the same proclaimed goals of the both the Hamas and Palestinian government (as verified in Prime Minister Netanyahu's speech). Within these borders resources will be left to them that would aid in the establishment of an independent financial system for the Palestinian people. A sign if any that Israel is ready to make concessions.
But I suggest that you get Hamas under control with its statements against Israel... the Torah states that if a people will proclaim peace to Israel then we should be at peace with them, but if they declare war then war is what we give them. If you want peace then express it for others to clearly hear you.
If both parties that I have addressed will express their support for the idea then it will get Israeli leaders attention, it will get UN attention, it will get American attention. The fate of the country is literally in the hands of its inhabitants.
I will finish with one more statement… I continue for the most part to support President Barack Obama and I wouldn’t take back my decision to elect him… after all McCain would have done the exact same thing because it is in the road map to peace Bush followed. Yet with President Obama I look forward to working this issue out with foreign policy experts, him and the administration and working together as planned because after all it was Obama who once said that he welcomed debate in the White House. In this case that is what I will do… I invite others to join in.
Sincerely,
Yeshiyah Amariel
Israel for Obama
Detroit’s Cobo Hall Expansion Plan-- $20 Million Dollars killed by Detroit City Council. By Nina Calahan-James, Freelance Writer & Washington Correspondent, Church & State Talk Radio Detroit Michigan residents are excited about $20 million dollars they could receive. The 20 Million dollars would permit the expansion plan for the home for the North America International Auto Show, Detroit’s Cobo Hall convention center.
The plan calls for a total renovation of the current Cobo Hall and a 120,000 square-foot expansion. Church & State Talk Radio Detroit, interviewed Wayne Country Executive, Robert A Ficano on Saturday March 7, 2009. Ficano, an innovative public servant successfully manages the largest county in the state of Michigan, with over 2.1 million citizens and the eleventh largest county in the nation. Tenacity for a tireless ambassador, Ficano regularly meets with citizens, community leaders, the corporate community and other elected officials throughout the county, the State of Michigan and nationally to highlight and victorously promote Wayne County.
Ficano intends to victoriously revitalize Detroit with his current futuristic initiative, the expansion of Cobo Hall Convention Center. For over decades the Detroit’s Cobo Hall has been the venue for the North American International Auto Show. This venue provides sixteen thousand jobs and millions of dollars in economic impact each year. Detroit’s Cobo Hall has deteriorative with antidote leaks that cannot be fixed in the basement. Cobo Hall is in dire need or repairs, upgrades and major expansion. Detroit City Council threw a serious punch, bruising the plans to renovate and expand Cobo Center, when it killed a deal from legislation for a $288-million expansion and renovation of Cobo.
When you drive into many of the Detroit neighborhoods, dark shaded glasses may not shield you from the thousands of dilapidated homes, drug crack houses and buildings glaring at you. Detroit city council members can’t see to get it together. City Council members are being referred to as a tragic circus, a group of people you would laugh at in a Tyler Perry movie. Many Detroit residents agree their city council members are a ridiculous embarrassment, unprofessional and just too dumb to run a city of Detroit’s magnitude and global potential. Detroit City Council members are split in their position; many afraid to surrender their precious city jewel, turning the home of the North American International Auto Show over to a regional authority. Wayne County Executive, Ficano is facing a tough dirty battle with Detroit City Council.
During the interview with Church & State Talk Radio Ficano stated “The audit firms have not been able to audit the city of Detroit’s books. One of the problems we encounter, trying to design the legislation, Detroit’s books were unauditable. We were trying to determine the cost to manage and run Detroit City Hall. They weren’t able to audit the books. In the line area, the city spends 15 Million a year out of their general fund, just to open the doors. Under this agreement that 15emillion a year, they don’t have to give out of their general fund. Detroit could use this money to balance their budget, hire police officers, firemen or to pay off debt”. Chicago's McCormick place and the LA Convention Center are more modern and accommodating to automaker displays.
Ficano continued. “These venues Chicago. LA, Beijing and Parris want the auto show because of the economic activity”. “We have 6000 journalist that show up every year in comparison to the super bowl drawing only 3000 journalist” County Executive, Ficano and Michigan Governor Jennifer Granholm the state Legislature and key leaders in metro Detroit, signed off on a plan to create a five-member board that would own and operate Cobo Hall.
The deal also would provide $20 million to Detroit and relieve the city of Cobo’s annual operating deficit. The legislation created a five-member authority with representatives from Detroit, the state, Wayne, Oakland, and Macomb counties. L.Brook Paterson is one of the stakeholders. L. Brooks Patterson is beginning his fifth four-year term as Oakland County Executive, after winning re-election in 2008 by another large electoral margin. He is the chief elected official in one of Americas most affluent and progressive counties receiving number one status in many U. S. categories. During the 16 years of the Patterson administration, Oakland County government has earned respect from Wall Street for its solid tax base and sound financial policies by attaining and maintaining a coveted AAA bond rating, which only 34 of the nation's 3,200 counties have received.
The Detroit City Council is opposed of the authority of the stakeholders for the expansion deal offering major upgrades and over 20 Million dollars. City Council President, Monica Conyers achieved the votes necessary to kill the expansion deal by one vote from City Council member Alberta Tinsley-Talabi. She switched sides to grant the necessary five votes to reject the expansion deal. Conyers have been noted lauded the vote, saying Cobo will remain "in the hands of the citizens of Detroit." It’s not over yet.
The city of Detroit has not demonstrated the ability to manage their budget. Detroit remains in a deficit, with automotive financial troubles increasing and over 500,000 unemployed workers. Michigan cannot afford to lose the economic impact of Cobo Hall and it largest venue, the North America International Auto Show.
It’s time for a serious economic conversation in the United States. We hear politicians all over the news on both the Democrat and Republican sides, but it is time for the citizens of the America to think for themselves and stop believing everything that they see on the news. What’s going on in the Congress, the DNC and the RNC right now are political games to put it politely.
We elected for change… but we must remember that a large percentage of people that voted in the United States also voted against Obama. The RNC is on its last leg and there is only one way for them to survive… that is to make Obama a failure. They are seeking to destroy Obama’s creditability as quickly as possible (You can tell the name of the game by watching Fox News or Hannity). At the same time there are big power struggles going on in the DNC to keep Obama in line with whatever they want. Remember, Obama never really got support from the Democratic Party (for the general election the DNC hardly raised a dime for the Obama campaign, even when the RNC raised millions for John McCain)…. His success came out of a support from the people (internet contributions and donations from the famous and rich). Because famous people supported him the media supported him…, but the media never really like him. The truth is that Obama’s policies threaten the powers-that-be in Washington (because when ordinary people begin to exert their power that upsets the social Darwinism philosophies that most power-players operate on). Companies that spend most of their time buying politicians have to subdue the Obama administration in order to bring-in projects and money from the government on the backs of the every day citizens.
When these politicians talk about their different methods for fixing the economy they all use words that never helps the average person understand what will or won’t help in the end.
What is the National Debt? It is the money barrowed from either another country or itself from future income from taxes from its citizens’ children.
What is the real solution to the economic crises? Companies’ are playing big games with the lives of normal people (social Darwinism at its best). To defeat the power they have average citizens have to do what Kind did with the civil rights issues and boycott certain companies that are playing these games and then redirecting their support to either companies that will support job production or give their support to smaller businesses that exist and do the same things the big companies do (this will catapult the small companies into the major leagues of the stock market and force the other companies to compete by conforming to the people’s needs or buy the new companies out keep the same pro-American job policies).
The other goal is to push Congress to create and support laws that will help job creation within the United States and aid those who have lost their jobs because of these political games. Let’s have no misunderstanding here… the United States doesn’t lack productivity, workers, or finances. There are 360,000,000 million people in the United States, we have a 20 percent unemployment rate which depending upon the work force. If the work force is half of the population, then the number of unemployment is 72,000,000. The stimulus plan just reached $925,000,000,000 billion dollars which if given to every unemployed worker $12,847 is enough to re-stimulate the economy in a heart beat. Those who have credit card and mortgage debts will repay them… those that without debts will put there money in banks (thus supplying them with investment money) and others will spend the money in the auto industry (solving that problem by busting the companies and creating jobs), create small businesses that will give lower income families money and the final group will invest the money into the stock market (at least 128 shares of a 100 dollar stock per investor) and cause the NASDAX to skyrocket. So the real power is in the hands of the people to solve their economic troubles and politicians (the people’s reps) to support them.
Many will jump to say that this is a socialist philosophy, however, the government giving companies money and calling it a bale-out is a socialist philosophy.... one that Republicans had no problem supporting before. Yet when it comes to saving the jobs of thousands of Americans and aiding those hurt by the recession they say it is un-American... when that is the most patriotic thing we can do.
Recently, a new two-state concept has been proposed to the upcoming Obama administration. The report-proposal was released by Rabbi Howshua Amariel and the conflict-resolution department of the Yisraelite Organization of Unity in Israel. It is being review by the Obama transition team and also Israelis as a posibility, but it basically states that original agreements made by Philistine and Israel ancestors at the well of Beersheba insured that the those territorial borders would be respected. However, the report also blames the UN for inproperly dividing the territories correctly between the Israelis and Palestinians in 1947 not considering that Israelis would continue to settle in the West Bank because it is the core of ancient Israelite land; also that Palestinians would continue attacks Ashkelon because it is was Philistine territory given away to Israel.
The report-proposal suggest that the final two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict is to establish the Palestinians (whom have identified themselves as descendants of Philistines) in the former territory of the Philistines and give them the cities of Ashkelon and Ashdod (forming a new State of Philistine). In return, the proposal states that the territory of the West Bank (including Jerusalem) should be re-absorbed completely into the State of Israel.
map of the ancient Philistine State.
There is an obvious religous theme to this proposal yet the full version basically suggest that the proposal is a trade concept of an extended territory of two wealth cities for Jerusalem and the West Bank region. As far as I know a few Israeli officials are aware of this proposal at this time, but it is under review by the Obama foreign policy team. I suggest readers that a look at it at http://younation.bravehost.com/peace1.htm
Rabbi Amariel, the Israel director of the Yisraelite Organization of Unity has also stated that he supports the State of Israel in its current battle with Hamas, but the proposal is a final solution to the idea of two separate states when that point is reached.
After Obama's election to the Presidency of the United States, the next day I contacted him to offer our continued support and teamwork with an Obama administration and also to inform him of the new created Israel for Change "think tank" group (if you are interested in join visit http://groups.yahoo.com/group/israelforchange/; or http://groups.google.com/group/israelforchange?hl=en).
The following is the actual Nov 5th letter to Obama and is followed by a link to his response on Nov 14th.
"I am sorry that I could not call you Mr. President-elect, but I want to offer from all your supporters in Israel our sincere congratulations to you, your family and your staff on your victory. American-Israelis are overjoyed that you have been elected president of the United States because when we said 'Yes we can' support you, we did! We have supported the movement for change since your arrival on the national seen, and we made your case to the Jewish people when the smear campaign had tried to mislead voters. We are confident that as President of the United States you will understand the complex issues concerning Israel and the peace process.
In your speech last night you stated that "To those who seek peace and security: We support you." Nevertheless, there are still many concerns within Israel as to if your administration will consider Israel's concerns over security issues. To aid with this problem we will soon be announcing the formation of an organization that aims to continue the movement of change that Israelis can believe in, not just in respect to the United States but also with consideration to the Jerusalem issue, the Palestinian peace process and Tikkun Olam. The "Israel for Change" organization stands ready to work with the Obama administration in these next steps in the global movement toward change we can believe in.
Yeshiyah AmarielIsrael for Obama campaign"
Click Here to read Illinois Senator (President-elect) Obama's response: (http://amarielfamily.tripod.com/ObamaLetter3.pdf)
Will Jesse Jackson Jr. fill the new Senate Seat of President Elect Barack Obama? Just like with any job, when the boss resigns, a position is open! There is no difference with the Senate seat. This seat will not be filled as quickly as Detroit City Mayor's replacement. The process is somewhat different with State Law. CHICAGO – President-elect Barack Obama said Thursday that he will resign from the Senate effective Sunday.In a statement, the junior Illinois senator called his four-year term "one of the highest honors and privileges" of his life and said the people of Illinois will stay with him as he leaves the Senate to begin "the hard task of fulfilling the simple hopes and common dreams of all Americans as our nation's next president."Obama victorious won the presidency last week over Republican John McCain.Under state law, Democratic Gov. Rod Blagojevich will name Obama's replacement for the remaining two years of his term. Blagojevich has said he expects to make a decision by year's end, and has ruled out appointing himself. Obama, elected in 2004, is the only black senator.His resignation reduces the Democratic majority to a bare minimum for the post-election session that begins next week. The party retains control as long as Independent Sen. Joseph Lieberman of Connecticut sides with them.Some Democrats favor punishing Lieberman, who endorsed McCain, for his speech at the Republican National Convention this summer and other critical remarks about Obama. Obama has told Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid he is not interested in seeing Democrats drive Lieberman from the Democratic caucus.Blagojevich's appointee would serve until the next national election in 2010.Obama has made clear he's deferring to the governor, saying last week: "This is the governor's decision; it is not my decision." However, Obama also said his replacement should be "somebody who is capable; somebody who is passionate about helping working families in Illinois meet their dreams."Potential candidates to replace Obama include Rep. Jesse Jackson Jr., Rep. Jan Schakowsky, Illinois Senate President Emil Jones and Illinois Attorney General Lisa Madigan. On Tuesday, Obama appeared with another possible replacement, Iraq war veteran Tammy Duckworth, to commemorate Veterans Day. She is a former congressional candidate and head of the Illinois Department of Veterans' Affairs.A day later, Obama friend and adviser Valerie Jarrett made it known that she's not interested in the Senate seat. Last Saturday, Jesse Jackson Jr. appeared on the new CNN show of Late Night with DL Hughley speaking with dilligence his run for the senate seat. Sources say that the early front-runner has fallen off the radar, despite actively pursing the appointment. My inquisitive eyebrow has risen, perhaps Mr. Jackson Jr. will accept our interview invitation for a closer look.Speculation among political watchers that Duckworth -- the state's director of veteran affairs -- has the best line on the job were fueled after she and Obama appeared together to mark Veterans Day in Chicago on Tuesday. The two placed a wreath on the soldiers memorial at Soldier Field.Other Springfield sources point to Dan Seals. He has run for congress unsuccessfully twice against North Shore Rep. Mark Kirk. His appointment would enable Blagojevich to say he kept one African-American in the U.S. Senate, which would otherwise have none with Obama's departure.Seals says he's flattered to be a part of the discussion and that he would accept the appointment if it's offered. Blagojevich has said he wants to name Obama's replacement by Christmas. Potential successors said Thursday they had heard nothing from the governor to indicate that he has changed plans or intends to make a decision soon.Duckworth said the governor's office hadn't contacted her to discuss the position or a timetable. U.S. Rep. Danny Davis said the same, although he predicted Blagojevich wouldn't let the decision wait until Christmas."My sense is that the governor will probably not drag this out too long," said Davis, D-Ill.Obama's aides say his Senate office will remain open for a while so that staffers can archive Senate documents for Obama's future presidential library and contact constituents. It will close some time within the 60 days after the resignation becomes effective Sunday.Blagojevich said whatever thoughts Obama has on the subject would carry a lot of weight. The governor's press secretary wrote in an e-mail Thursday that Blagojevich would have no comment on Obama's announcement. .President Elect Obama made a statement regarding his resignation effective this Sunday November 17, 2008 "It has been one of the highest honors and privileges of my life to have served the people of Illinois in the United States Senate. In a state that represents the crossroads of a nation, I have met so many men and women who’ve taken different journeys, but hold common hopes for their children’s future. It is these Illinois families and their stories that will stay with me as I leave the United States Senate and begin the hard task of fulfilling the simple hopes and common dreams of all Americans as our nation’s next President," said President-elect Barack Obama.
Will Jesse Jackson Jr. fill the new Senate Seat of President Elect Barack Obama?
Just like with any job, when the boss resigns, a position is open! There is no difference with the Senate seat. This seat will not be filled as quickly as Detroit City Mayor's replacement. The process is somewhat different with State Law.
CHICAGO – President-elect Barack Obama said Thursday that he will resign from the Senate effective Sunday.
In a statement, the junior Illinois senator called his four-year term "one of the highest honors and privileges" of his life and said the people of Illinois will stay with him as he leaves the Senate to begin "the hard task of fulfilling the simple hopes and common dreams of all Americans as our nation's next president."
Obama victorious won the presidency last week over Republican John McCain.
Under state law, Democratic Gov. Rod Blagojevich will name Obama's replacement for the remaining two years of his term. Blagojevich has said he expects to make a decision by year's end, and has ruled out appointing himself. Obama, elected in 2004, is the only black senator.
His resignation reduces the Democratic majority to a bare minimum for the post-election session that begins next week. The party retains control as long as Independent Sen. Joseph Lieberman of Connecticut sides with them.
Some Democrats favor punishing Lieberman, who endorsed McCain, for his speech at the Republican National Convention this summer and other critical remarks about Obama. Obama has told Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid he is not interested in seeing Democrats drive Lieberman from the Democratic caucus.
Blagojevich's appointee would serve until the next national election in 2010.
Obama has made clear he's deferring to the governor, saying last week: "This is the governor's decision; it is not my decision." However, Obama also said his replacement should be "somebody who is capable; somebody who is passionate about helping working families in Illinois meet their dreams."
Potential candidates to replace Obama include Rep. Jesse Jackson Jr., Rep. Jan Schakowsky, Illinois Senate President Emil Jones and Illinois Attorney General Lisa Madigan.
On Tuesday, Obama appeared with another possible replacement, Iraq war veteran Tammy Duckworth, to commemorate Veterans Day. She is a former congressional candidate and head of the Illinois Department of Veterans' Affairs.
A day later, Obama friend and adviser Valerie Jarrett made it known that she's not interested in the Senate seat.
Last Saturday, Jesse Jackson Jr. appeared on the new CNN show of Late Night with DL Hughley speaking with dilligence his run for the senate seat. Sources say that the early front-runner has fallen off the radar, despite actively pursing the appointment. My inquisitive eyebrow has risen, perhaps Mr. Jackson Jr. will accept our interview invitation for a closer look.Speculation among political watchers that Duckworth -- the state's director of veteran affairs -- has the best line on the job were fueled after she and Obama appeared together to mark Veterans Day in Chicago on Tuesday. The two placed a wreath on the soldiers memorial at Soldier Field.Other Springfield sources point to Dan Seals. He has run for congress unsuccessfully twice against North Shore Rep. Mark Kirk. His appointment would enable Blagojevich to say he kept one African-American in the U.S. Senate, which would otherwise have none with Obama's departure.Seals says he's flattered to be a part of the discussion and that he would accept the appointment if it's offered.
Blagojevich has said he wants to name Obama's replacement by Christmas. Potential successors said Thursday they had heard nothing from the governor to indicate that he has changed plans or intends to make a decision soon.
Duckworth said the governor's office hadn't contacted her to discuss the position or a timetable. U.S. Rep. Danny Davis said the same, although he predicted Blagojevich wouldn't let the decision wait until Christmas.
"My sense is that the governor will probably not drag this out too long," said Davis, D-Ill.
Obama's aides say his Senate office will remain open for a while so that staffers can archive Senate documents for Obama's future presidential library and contact constituents. It will close some time within the 60 days after the resignation becomes effective Sunday.
Blagojevich said whatever thoughts Obama has on the subject would carry a lot of weight. The governor's press secretary wrote in an e-mail Thursday that Blagojevich would have no comment on Obama's announcement.
.President Elect Obama made a statement regarding his resignation effective this Sunday November 17, 2008
"It has been one of the highest honors and privileges of my life to have served the people of Illinois in the United States Senate. In a state that represents the crossroads of a nation, I have met so many men and women who’ve taken different journeys, but hold common hopes for their children’s future. It is these Illinois families and their stories that will stay with me as I leave the United States Senate and begin the hard task of fulfilling the simple hopes and common dreams of all Americans as our nation’s next President," said President-elect Barack Obama.
You may email Nina at Nina@BarackObama4change.us Coming soon Nina will Co-Host a new radio show focusing on the Transparency of the Transition Team.CBS 2 Political Editor Mike Flannery and the Associated Press writers Nedra Pickler in Washington and Christopher Wills from Springfield, Ill., contributed to this report.
If you’re reading this now, chances are you’ve already heard dozens of pitches trying to get you to volunteer for the Obama campaign. If you’ve already volunteered - we thank you. This is a grassroots, “bottom-up” campaign, and your help is why we’ve been able to come this far. But, it’s not over yet.
Even if you’ve volunteered before - or if you’ve always wanted to help out but never had the time - today is the day! Since Barack announced his candidacy for president on May 2, 2007, everything we’ve done has been in preparation for today - which is why it’s so important to not give up now. We need your help! Sign up to help out today at a Campaign for Change Get out the vote location near you, the most important day of the election here.
Michigan! This is our moment; this is our time! Get out and vote - and then volunteer - and tonight, we’ll celebrate victory. Don’t delay, volunteer today!
John McCain's campaign has as recently as yesterday said that they believe that students won't turn out to vote. Today is our day to prove them wrong and show America that young voters do matter. Our opponent and the media believe that young voters won’t show up - that we don’t care about the election, and are too lazy, too unwilling, or too unmotivated to actually get out and vote.But today, we’ll prove them wrong.
Today is the day to turn the page on eight years of failed Bush policies that have seen our middle class shrink, economy worsen, and college move out of reach for more and more people. Today is the day to make your voice heard! What happens today will determine the direction we want our country to move in. Decades from now, your children will ask you what you did today. Do you want to be part of the moment that changed America - or do you want to stay home, and just hope for the best?
Our moment is now. Get out and vote - bring your roommate, your friends, anyone you can think of. After you vote, help us get out the vote on this critical day - sign up to help get out the vote on your campus today!
YOU'RE INVITED to theMichigan Democratic Party'sELECTION NIGHT EVENTat theDetroit Renaissance Center
Finish up canvass and phone bank shifts as the polls close and then join the Michigan Democratic Party to watch the election returns and celebrate the work we have done together to get out the vote for change.
Guests will include Governor Jennifer Granholm, Lt. Governor John Cherry, Senator Carl Levin, Senator Debbie Stabenow, Judge Diane Marie Hathaway, Speaker Andy Dillon, MDP Chair Mark Brewer.
REMINDER: if you are eligible, today (at 4 p.m.) is the last day to vote absentee in-person at your clerk's office. If you've requested your absentee ballot previously, it must be returned by mail or by hand to your local clerk's office by 8 p.m. on Tuesday. For more information, call 1-877-767-6424, or visit the State of Michigan's voter information page.
I know everyone is busy, has other things to do, has work, and is tired. But - there will be thousands of other days to work, thousands of other days to sleep, thousands of other days to run errands. This is our only day to make sure Barack Obama becomes president and if we win this election I truly believe each of those thousands of other days will be better. That is why I am asking you to take off Election Day and help ensure that we elect Barack Obama our next president. In twenty years you will not be thinking I sure am glad I slept those extra few hours or I am glad I saved my vacation or sick day. But I guarantee you that you will be proud for the rest of your life to have been part of the Obama Campaign on Election Day 2008. Let's win this thing.Josh
Tomorrow's the last day before Election Day, and our offices will be humming with activity. We hope you can join us at some of these events:
At 11:30 pm, on the eve of election day, Governor Jennifer M. Granholm, U.S. Senator Carl Levin, and Denise Ilitch, Candidate for University of Michigan Board of Regents will join students and supporters for a “Midnight Madness,” Get Out the Vote Rally for Barack Obama in Ann Arbor. The rally will also feature a musical performance by Ann Arbor’s own “My Dear Disco.” Join Governor Granholm, Senator Levin, and Denise Ilitch at 11:30 in the Michigan Union Ballroom for the event!
Also, Lt. Governor John Cherry will appear at several events tomorrow:
12:15 pm Meet and Greet with Lieutenant Governor John D. CherryCapitol Coney Island4021 Van Slyke RdFlint, MI 2:30 pm Plant Gate Meet and Greet with Lieutenant Governor John D. CherryTRW Automotive2328 E Genesee AveSaginaw, MI 3:30 pm Canvass Kick-Off with Lieutenant Governor John D. Cherry UAW Local 4672104 Farmer StSaginaw, MI
Stop in one of our sixty-plus offices tomorrow!
If you are elligible tomorrow is the deadline to vote absentee in-person at your local clerk's office.
If you've requested your absentee ballot previously, it must be returned by mail or by hand to your local clerk's office by 8 p.m. on Tuesday.
For more information, call 1-877-767-6424, or visit the State of Michigan's voter information page.
As of the time of this post, there are 54 hours left until the Michigan polls close in the most important election of our lifetime.
Can you spare a few hours to help us out in these last fifty-four hours? There's so much to do, and your work will make such an impact. Check out some of the ways you can help us out:
We have events going on all over the state tomorrow, and all 60+ of our Campaign for Change offices will be buzzing with activity - why not stop in to see what's going on? Whatever amount of time you're able to spend will make a difference on Election Day. This election is so important, for Michigan and for our future, so don't just sit on the sidelines!
Sunday, November 2nd, 2008 2:45pm Phone Bank with Lieutenant Governor John D. CherryAcross from Campaign for Change Office7 North SaginawPontiac, MI 4:00pm Canvass Kick-Off with Former Governor Jim Blanchard, Wayne County Sherriff Warren EvansCampaign for Change Office Headquarters2875 W. Grand BlvdDetroit, MI 4:00 pm Canvass Kick-Off with Michigan AFL-CIO President Mark Gaffney15031 Michigan AvenueE. Dearborn, MI 4:00pm Canvass Kick-Off with Governor Wayne State Paul Massaron, State Board of Education Vice President John AustinCWA Local 400917233 W. Ten Mile RoadSouthfield, MI4:00 pm Canvass Kick-Off with Lieutenant Governor John D. Cherry, Michigan Democratic Party Chair Mark Brewer Flint Campaign for Change Office 877 E. 5th Ave. Flint, MI 48503
4:00 pm Canvass Kick-Off with Michigan Change To Win President Phil ThompsonIBEW Local 6655205 S. Pennsylvania Ave.Lansing, MI 4:45 pm Phone Bank with Wayne State Governor Paul Massaron, State Board of Education Vice President John AustinSouthfield Campaign for Change Office18284 W. Ten Mile RoadSouthfield, MI 5:15pm Meet and Greet with Lieutenant Governor John D. CherrySaginaw Campaign for Change Office122 N. Michigan Ave.Saginaw, MI 48602 5:30 pm Bay City Democrats GOTV Dinner with Lt. Governor John D. Cherry, Congressman Bart Stupak, Michigan Democratic Party Chair Mark BrewerUAW Local 362 Hall4427 Wilder RoadBay City, MI
