Northern Virginia for Obama !

Senate Passes Health Care Bill 60-39!!! Press Reactions below...

Gregory Jackson — Thu, 24 Dec 2009 12:38:08 EST

Washington Post, “Senate approves landmark health-care bill”:

The Senate passed a landmark health-care bill Thursday morning that would provide coverage to more 30 million people and begin a far-reaching overhaul of Medicare and the private insurance market. Vice President Biden presided over the 60-39, party line vote. Thursday's vote -- which came on the first Senate session on Dec. 24 in more than five decades -- brings Democrats closer than ever to realizing their 70-year-old goal of universal health coverage. For the first time, most Americans would be required to obtain health insurance, either through their employer or via new, government-regulated exchanges. Those who can't afford insurance plans would receive federal subsidies. And Medicaid would be vastly expanded to reach millions of low-income children and adults.

AP, “Senate OKs health care measure, reaching milestone”:

Senate Democrats passed a landmark health care bill in a climactic Christmas Eve vote that could define President Barack Obama's legacy and usher in near-universal medical coverage for the first time in the country's history. The 60-39 vote on a cold winter morning capped months of arduous negotiations and 24 days of floor debate. It also followed a succession of failures by past congresses to get to this point. Vice President Joe Biden presided as 58 Democrats and two independents voted "yes." Republicans unanimously voted "no." The tally far exceeded the simple majority required for passage.

Los Angeles Times, “Senate OKs sweeping healthcare bill”:

Senate Democrats this morning passed a sweeping healthcare overhaul bill, setting the stage for reconciliation early next year with similarly historic legislation passed by the House last month… The bill, which is President Obama's top domestic priority, would extend insurance to about 30 million people who now lack it, expand the reach of Medicaid for the poor, and impose new rules on health insurance companies. It would cost about $871 billion over 10 years, but raise more than that in new taxes and fees and cuts in Medicare… The Senate bill would lead to the largest transformation of the country's healthcare system since the creation of Medicare in 1965. It would require all Americans to have health insurance, either through their jobs, through the government or through the private market, and it would penalize those who do not comply.

Wall Street Journal, “Senate Passes Sweeping Health-Care Bill; 60-39 Vote Is Landmark in Effort to Expand Insurance Coverage”:

The Senate approved sweeping health-overhaul legislation on Thursday, a landmark moment for White House-led efforts to expand insurance coverage to more than 30 million Americans. The bill, approved by a 60-39 vote, would deliver on a long-promised Democratic goal of extending coverage to nearly every American, and would represent the biggest expansion of the federal safety net since the 1965 creation of Medicare, the health-insurance program for the elderly and disabled. Thursday's vote was a victory for President Barack Obama, who made the issue his top domestic priority despite lingering divisions among Democrats and the fierce opposition of Republicans.

PBS, “Senate Passes Historic Health Care Reform Legislation”:

The Senate passed historic health care reform legislation in an early-morning vote Thursday, just making Democratic leaders' self-imposed Christmas deadline after a marathon 25 straight days in session. ‘This morning isn't the end of the process, it's merely the beginning,’ Majority Leader Harry Reid, D-Nev., said on the Senate floor before the vote. ‘But that process cannot begin unless we start today.

Talking Points Memo, “DONE DEAL Senate Passes Health Care 60-39”:

Presiding over the Senate, in a rare appearance, was Vice President Joe Biden. As Senate chair, the Vice President can serve as the tie-breaking vote in the event of a 50-50 deadlock. But tonight's victory for Democrats was never in doubt. Over the course of this week, Democrats have passed several test votes--set at a 60-member, supermajority threshold. The only question this morning was, would they keep all of their members united for the final vote. In the end they did.

Ron Brownstein, Atlantic Media, “Historic achievement...Largest Democratic legislative achievement since Medicare”:

Well I think there are two big points about it. First, this is - whatever you think about the underlying bill - an historic achievement. Up until this year no universal coverage bill had ever even reached the floor of the House or the Senate, much less passed it. It has defeated every other President who has tried it. Truman, Nixon, Clinton, FDR. This will be, as it now seems inevitable to reach the President's desk, this will be the largest Democratic legislative achievement since Medicare in 1965 and it will be achieved in an atmosphere that is very difficult to operate in simply because you now need 60 votes to do almost everything. There have been more cloture votes in the Senate this year than there were in the entire decade of the 1960s.

Ezra Klein, Washington Post, “No previous health-care reform bill has come anywhere near this far”:

On December 24th, in an early morning vote, the United States Senate voted to pass health-care reform. It was the first time the body had been in session on the 24th since 1963. That's fitting, as it's arguably the most important piece of legislation the body has passed since 1963. It's become difficult to write these milestone posts. Health-care reform, by this point, has had a lot of milestones. It has cleared five committees. It has come through the House of Representatives. It has been merged into a single bill in the Senate. It has passed through the Senate. No previous health-care reform bill has come anywhere near this far. But there are more milestones left to achieve: The House and Senate need to agree on a bill. That bill has to pass both chambers again. And then the president has to sign the legislation.

Politico, “HISTORIC VOTE”:

Before the sun comes up on Christmas Eve, Senate Democrats will gather to pass a sweeping health reform bill, then scatter to long-delayed holiday vacations with a victory for the party and President Barack Obama in hand.

Winning Ugly but Fired Up and Ready to Go!

Glen Besa — Sat, 19 Dec 2009 07:11:08 EST

Reflections on where we go from Copenhagen

There are many things that are being said about the shortcomings of the Copenhagen negotiations, but with the science telling us we must take action now if we are to protect our climate as well as the people impacted by climate change and the rich bio-diversity of this planet we call home, there is little time to debate the outcome. The time has come to act.

Coming out of Copenhagen, we have a political agreement by the leaders of the largest emitter nations who, eye ball to eye ball, hammered out the Copenhagen Accord; an agreement that goes beyond Kyoto to secure first time commitments to reduce emissions from the US as well as developing countries like China, India and Brazil.

Admittedly, the agreement does not go far enough to keep the average temperature of the earth from exceeding two degrees centigrade, but these new commitments by the US and by developing countries are a historic step forward, as President Obama noted in comments after the agreement was struck. The objection to the agreement of small island nations like Tuvalu, that face extinction if further progress is not achieved, is understandable. Clearly, this first step can not be the last.

For Americans who recognize the risks of climate change, there is one overwhelmingly important task that flows from this agreement: we must pass a clean energy and climate bill in 2010, and with mid-term elections bearing down on us, it is essential that Congress act before Earth Day, April 22, 2010.

President Obama has taken the political risk to commit the United States to the vision of a clean energy future with greenhouse gas emission reductions consistent with the legislation now pending before the Congress. It is now up to us to compel the Senate to act. We must not fail, we can not fail, in taking this first step toward a clean energy future protected from the risks of climate change.

Glen Besa, has spent the last two weeks in Copenhagen as a member of the Sierra Club’s delegation to the UN Climate Conference. He is the director of the Virginia Chapter of Sierra Club.

Training Volunteers to Make Change Happen!

Chrisi — Wed, 16 Dec 2009 08:56:18 EST

Over 70 new and veteran volunteers from all over Northern VA (and some coming from quite a distance!) congregated in Falls Church a couple of Sundays ago for an OFA regional training. After discussing the purpose and structure of OFA, volunteers broke out into groups to learn about the OFA style of grassroots organizing first-hand from their community organizers.

This turned out to be the most amazing and inspiring part of the day, as the message "Respect, Empower, Include" seemed to really resonate with everyone there. People came to the training because they were engaged in the debate and wanted to learn how to do more to help pass real, substantive health care reform. After some animated discussions on phonebanking adventures and creating community networks, volunteers came out of the meeting with a sense of purpose and the feeling that they suddenly had the power to actually make change!

It was most gratifying to see two new volunteers, who had never organized before, sign up to canvass and phone bank! It reminded me of the quote by Margaret Mead, who said, "Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world....Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has."

Our new volunteers and volunteer leaders are going to go out there and change the world!

Email from a Repub / my church member/scared gun owner.

VA . Greatgran 'Grab A Mop' for President Obama — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 17:26:52 EST

This is Crunch Time on ObamaCare
-- Urge Senators Warner and Webb to tell Harry Reid "I'm not your puppet!"

Gun Owners of America E-Mail Alert
8001 Forbes Place, Suite 102, Springfield, VA 22151
Phone: 703-321-8585 / FAX: 703-321-8408
http://gunowners.org

Thursday, November 19, 2009

This week will be as important as any week in our lifetime in determining whether the anti-gun health care bill moves forward.

As a result of the mandates in the Senate bill, all of your gun-related health data can be dumped into a government database that was created in section 13001 of the stimulus bill. This includes any firearms-related information your doctor has gleaned..... or any determination of PTSD, or something similar, that can preclude you from owning firearms.

The vote this week will be on shutting down a Republican filibuster of the bill. And the key votes will be just a few Democrats: Ben Nelson of Nebraska, Mary Landrieu of Louisiana, Blanche Lincoln of Arkansas, Evan Bayh of Indiana, Joe Lieberman of Connecticut, and your very own Mark Warner and Jim Webb of Virginia.

The Senate and the House have a great tradition of conservative Democrats: Democratic Senators Jim Allen of Alabama, Harry Byrd, Jr., of Virginia, and (former Democratic) Congressman Virgil Goode of Virginia were, in their day, as pro-gun and fiscally responsible as any Republican.

The question is whether any conservative or even "moderate" Democrats survive, or whether we are left with a bunch of cowards who will do whatever their leftist leadership demands of them.

In the House, every evidence is that the so-called "Blue Dog Democrats" were nothing but a stable of Pelosi puppets. The Blue Dogs whined and complained about the deficit spending created by the bill, but when push came to shove, Pelosi was able to get just enough of the supposedly moderate Democrats to do her bidding and support her bill.

Is this the case in the Senate as well?

1) The "moderate" Democrats in the Senate have demanded seventy-two hours to examine any legislative language -- and a CBO assessment based on final legislative language. They will not get this before this week's vote. The question is whether they were serious.

2) The "moderate" Democrats in the Senate have demanded a bill which does not send the deficit spiraling into the stratosphere. The Reid bill will add over a hundred billion dollars to the deficit, when you consider the $210-247 billion Medicare "fix" Reid is trying to sneak through on separate legislation. It will add over A HALF A TRILLION DOLLARS TO THE DEFICIT IF YOU DISCOUNT THE PHONY MEDICARE "CUTS." Was the promise worth the paper it was written on?

3) The "moderate" Democrats have promised a bill which will not tax the middle class. But the Reid bill will impose enormous costs and taxes -- not only on the middle class, but on the sick and elderly.

This is a week in which a handful of senators will make history. Will they be heroes and champions? Or liars and cowards? We will see.

They are being told that this is their chance to "make history." But history seldom rewards those who break their word because they are frightened of their masters.

ACTION: Write Senators Mark Warner and Jim Webb. Tell them to vote against "cloture" on the "motion to proceed" to the Senate ObamaCare bill.

You can contact Senator Warner by going to his webform at: http://warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm?p=contact You can contact Senator Webb by going to his webform at: http://www.webb.senate.gov/contact.cfm

----- Pre-written letter -----

Dear Senator:

This week will be as important as any week in our lifetime in determining whether the anti-gun health care bill moves forward.

As a result of the mandates in the Senate bill, all my gun-related health data can be dumped into a government database that was created in section 13001 of the stimulus bill. This includes any firearms-related information your doctor has gleaned..... or any determination of PTSD, or something similar, that can preclude you from owning firearms.

The vote this week will be on shutting down a Republican filibuster of the motion to bring the bill up -- "cloture" on the "motion to proceed."

The Senate and the House have a great tradition of conservative Democrats. The question is whether any conservative or even "moderate" Democrats will remain independent, or whether they will just do whatever their leftist leadership demands of them.

In the House, every evidence is that the so-called "Blue Dog Democrats" were nothing but a stable of Pelosi puppets. And the only question was which ones Pelosi would choose to dance at the end of their strings, and which would be allowed to lie crumpled up in the corner.

Is this the case in the Senate as well?

1) You have demanded seventy-two hours to examine any legislative language -- and a CBO assessment based on final legislative language. You will not get this before this week's vote. The question is whether you were serious.

2) You have demanded a bill which does not send the deficit spiraling into the stratosphere. The Reid bill will add over a hundred billion dollars to the deficit, when you consider the $210-247 billion Medicare "fix" Reid is trying to sneak through on separate Legislation (S. 1776).

It will add over A HALF A TRILLION DOLLARS TO THE DEFICIT IF YOU DISCOUNT THE PHONY MEDICARE "CUTS." Was your promise worth the paper it was written on?

3) You have promised a bill which will not tax the middle class. But the Reid bill will impose enormous costs and taxes -- not only on the middle class, but on the sick and elderly. Did you mean what you said?

This is a week in which you will make history. Will you be a hero and a champion? Or a Reid puppet? I have faith that you will live up to your calling.

You are being told that this is your chance to "make history." But history seldom rewards cowards who break their word because they are frightened by their "masters."

Please, show me and the people who elected you that you are the hero we elected you to be. Vote against "cloture" on the anti-gun health care bill.

Sincerely,

******************************************************************************

NOTE:

I emailed,called,signed petitions,spoke to Sarah in McConnell off. and Jamie in Reid's off. The

opponents to HCR are busy,please stay aggressive. Continue to email and call.

VAgg

Reflecting on Issues

Julie — Sat, 07 Nov 2009 15:31:22 EST

It's time to talk about some of what has been taking place since the big win last November. I am puzzled about what has been going on with the healthcare issue and extremely disappointed in the progress. I am not here to blame anyone in particular, honestly, I am not sure who to blame. However, I do know who NOT to blame and that is the President Barack Obama. He has been working tirelessly on so many things (especially healthcare reform) in order to move this country in some sort of positive direction. It saddens me that there are so many people that are so determined to see this all fail. What kind of person or people want to see someone or something good fail? We have seen and have heard this said from the far right,or Republican Conservative standpoint and quite frankly it's disgusting. After 8 years of failed policy and neglect we have a President that cares and wants to create positive change. Unfortunately, for those that want to execute positive change,there are still those that want to destroy it's progress. How do we overcome this dilemma? How can we make progress if there are so many who fear that they won't get their slice of the pie? It's fear itself that will be the dimise of us. For once,It would be nice to see folks have faith and trust in something, faith and trust in our abilty to make change happen. I know that if we can get healthcare reform passed,all our worries regarding other issues (jobs, global warming,education,foreign policy etc.) can be resolved with ease. I hope for those who are afraid that the health reform bill will hurt them,will in fact see the truth. I hope that we can unite again as one country in order to make progress for the good of all.

How can we get a Public Option?

Karima from Vienna, VA — Tue, 29 Sep 2009 14:08:57 EDT

Please CALL your SENATORS and CONGRESSMEN and ASK them to VOTE for the PUBLIC HEALTH INSURANCE OPTION!
Call the Congress Switchboard to direct you to your public official: 202-224-3121

We worked hard to get our representatives to begin working on reforming the health care system. DO NOT GIVE UP now!
Don't let anyone stop us or discourage us from getting the reform that so many people need! Please act right now, so our collective voice can be heard inside every chamber of Congress!
Here are some articles that you can look at and share within your community:

Learn more about health care reform:
http://www.whitehouse.gov/issues/health_care/plan/
http://www.barackobama.com/issues/healthcare/index.php

Tell Your Members of Congress to Support President Obama's Plan for Health Reform by SIGNING this LETTER:
http://my.barackobama.com/page/content/hcsignon?source=issuespage

The Only Alternative is the Status Quo:
http://www.ourfuture.org/blog-entry/2009093925/only-alternative-status-quo

Cheers,
Karima Hijane

Throwing Out Granny with the Bathwater

Henry M — Wed, 19 Aug 2009 06:59:23 EDT

Thanks to Palin and her minions, millions of grannies will die in pain. They're throwing out granny's Medicare reimbursement for talking with a doctor about how they want to die in order to keep the people that they think are "bathwater" from being able to get insurance from the government.

What do you call people like that? Children may be reading this, so keep it clean, please.

Henry M

Reading Should Be Fundamental

Henry M — Sun, 16 Aug 2009 17:03:10 EDT

Those concerned about H.R.3200, America's Affordable Health Choices Act of 2009, particularly anyone who doesn't trust our elected officials, e.g. the President of the United States of America, to do the right thing for the country, should... actually read it before they shout anyone down about it.

Don't ya think?

http://frwebgate.access.gpo.gov/cgi-bin/getdoc.cgi?dbname=111_cong_bills&docid=f:h3200ih.txt.pdf

Read it and pass it around!

Henry M

Right to Healthcare

Henry M — Mon, 10 Aug 2009 09:39:12 EDT

Why is the right-wing supporting the insurance companies? Big business wants a public option as much as the people who lost jobs during the Bush administration. And it's not even "single payer... it's just an option. (The) Right is supposed to be about the right to choose what you want, but you can't if you have no choice!

The little guy in the rental unit is being fooled by the right, which is looking like it's been bought by the insurance companies. He's gonna get sick and cost everyone a lot of money when he goes to the ER. And if the right doesn't help the left a little, anyone may become him.

Follow the Money

Henry M — Wed, 05 Aug 2009 12:35:46 EDT

It's pretty easy to understand what some companies, and the politicians that are in their pay, get out of health insurance business as usual.

The country as a united people, and the people as many individuals stand to benefit from the public option that is being opposed by the insurance companies and their dupes.
What are the selfish reasons ascribed to Obama for pushing reform?

Happy Independence Day

Henry M — Sat, 04 Jul 2009 08:37:09 EDT

Happy Independence Day,

Happy Birthday, USA!

Henry M

Thank you..... Greetings and Peace be upon all,

Esam Omeish — Thu, 11 Jun 2009 13:16:21 EDT

Greetings and Peace be upon all,

Dear friends and supporters, last night we have made history and we have come a long way. When we started this journey over six months ago, we had a dream and a vision for a brighter future A dream of mobilizing and uniting our community for the service and greater good of all communities. A vision of an organized, proactive, participatory, community with exemplary, faithful, citizenship and membership. The dream today is a robust reality as a result of this awesome journey the vision, as compelling and as lucid as it may be, is closer to being achieved than any other time, certainly much closer than when we started this arduous track.

I want above all to thank my wife and best supporter Badria, my loving kids Abrar, Anwar, Yousof, and Ibrahim and parents, brothers and sister Samar.

I want first to thank all the pillars of the campaign ( not just members or employees) but pillars, your countless efforts and selfless acts despite the ups and downs of the campaign are most greatly appreciated and my feelings of gratitude are immeasurable, thank you.

I also can not thank enough our volunteers, it is very clear from the get go, that no campaign can be successful without its volunteers, those who invest their time, resources and energies in it, those who believe in its message and vision and those who recognize the dire need for the work that our campaign is doing, your performance yesterday at the polls have been stellar and is a testament of every one’s tenacity and willingness to help and participate. Thank you.

To all those who have been generous and tremendously gracious in supporting our campaign financially, thank you and May the Almighty bless you and your family in abundance and in multitudes for what you have given, campaigns depend heavily on strong resources and their success is directly linked to its ability to bring in resources. Our campaign was ranked as the best performing campaign in the last quarter of this race, not just among the challenger campaigns, but also with the incumbent ones, because of your generosity and support, thank you.

I want to also thank my colleagues for the races they ran and the efforts they have exerted,

Tonight we are one family and we are joined by our common goal, to keep the 35th district democratic and espouse the values and principles of common sense progressive policies of our democratic party. We have an uphill battle to convert the general assembly house of delegates to a democratic balance to enable our democratic governor and lieutenant governor to continue the progressive uplifting policies of Gov Kaine and Senator Warner.

We have big challenges to tackle especially in the face of a faltering economy and a sobering job market. We are blessed to be in the 35 district and we have enjoyed the prosperity of Fairfax county, we will do everything we can to maintain the very reasons why it is today what it is.

The excellence in our schools and the breadth of services provided in Fairfax county must be maintained despite difficult budgetary constraints. We also need to be innovative and responsible as we tackle age-long transportation problems and as we remain environmentally conscientious , while we sustain our support for business and economic growth. We need inclusive independent strong leadership to move us forward in Virginia.

Lastly, today is a celebration of the diversity of our Virginia and the robustness of our great democracy. People from all different communities came out to choose a more representative general assembly to reflect the beautiful colors of Virginia in the General Assembly. No one better than the Democratic Party to champion this diversity and foster this progress. Thank you Fairfax County Democratic Party and fellow democrats.

This campaign in its ascendancy has met several challenges and many more remain ahead. We are proud of where we are today, but the work is far from over. As I have mentioned earlier, this campaign opened curious eyes, and turned inquisitive heads as well as inspired yearning hearts and infused needed energy into souls passionate about community activism and civic engagement. We will engage our inquisitors, inspire our fans and supporters and train and develop those enthralled by the mission of civic engagement and outreach for the greater good.

We will always take the higher road and transcend any difficulties or conflict so that we can concentrate our energies and passions on working together and paving common grounds. We must be ready to serve our constituency in the 35th district well and be ready to address its challenges and maximize its opportunities for progress and prosperity of Fairfax county and the 35th district.

We will reach out to all our friends and supporters and create common venues for dialogue and understanding for everybody. We wish to serve and serve well every member , every community of the 35th district and address every issue, every matter of our district.

Our campaign to empower our community and create a platform for engagement and participation will continue as we move the campaign structure and machine into an advocacy group and a plan to continue to organize and develop our community and its tremendous talents and assets. Please continue to support and work with our efforts as we move into the future plans. Thank you again and May God the Almighty Bless you , our society and our country.

Peace and Blessings,

Esam Omeish

Fellow Virginians -- Vote Terry McAuliffe For Governor

Candace N. - V.O.B — Tue, 09 Jun 2009 14:38:23 EDT

Virginia needs a governor who thinks outside of the box, is intelligent, has Virginian's best interest at heart, is dedicated and enthusiastic. Terry McAuliffe is that person. Don't take your voting right for granted, take a few moments to vote today. Let's get someone in office who is going to work hard for us. Vote Terry McAuliffe

This is it guys! We Need Your Help TODAY! Please Email me today with the times you can help.

Esam Omeish — Sat, 30 May 2009 23:29:56 EDT

Today is the Day!

First I wanted to say a very heartfelt and grateful “Thank You!!!!!” to all of you for agreeing to help in various parts of my "Dr Esam Omeish 2009 campaign"! So many of you are returning veterans from Obama, Connelly and Moran campaign that I feel as if the Esam and I are “in great hands”!

I know that all of our lives are extremely busy, but we need you to try to squeeze in few volunteer date for you the next week and half.

We need as many members of our community to talk to our own community families that live in our district before the end of next week and before early voting ends. Reaching these folks is essential to us winning on June 9th. Can I count on you to do that for Esam and the community?

You can help anytime any date, all or only some…..

Times are as follows:

5/31/09 Sunday 11am to 8pm

6/1/09 Monday 6am to 9:30pm

6/2/09 Tuesday 6am to 9:30pm

6/3/09 Wednesday 6am to 9:30pm

6/4/09 Thursday 6am to 9:30pm

6/5/09 Friday 6am to 9:30pm

6/6/09 Saturday 10am to 9pm

6/7/09 Sunday 11am to 8pm

6/8/09 Monday 6am to 9:30pm

6/9/09 Tuesday 6am to 8:00pm

This is it guys! We Need Your Help TODAY! Please Email me today with the times you can help.
esamomeish2009@gmail.com

Esam

Remember Our brave men and women on Memorial Day

Esam Omeish — Fri, 22 May 2009 17:59:00 EDT

As we prepare to begin the Memorial Day weekend, it is important for each of us to pause for a moment and reflect on the meaning for the day.

While it can be viewed as the unofficial start of summer and a chance to enjoy a family picnic, we all should recognize Memorial Day is truly a day for remembering those who made the ultimate sacrifice to make our Nation free.

Our brave, selfless, and devoted men and women have fought and died to protect the rights and freedoms we all enjoy every day. This is our opportunity to honor them.

As a Americans and a Democrats, we should set an example and educate our children and grandchildren the true meaning of Memorial Day and remind them of the tremendous privileges we Americans enjoy thanks to the valiant service of our Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, Marines, and Coast Guardsmen.

As you enjoy the long weekend with friends and family, I ask you to remember the ideals that make our country great and those who have sacrificed to protect those ideals.
Attend one of the many memorial services across the state. Proudly display the Flag. If you see a veteran or person currently serving our Nation in the Armed Forces, tell them "thank you," because we owe a debt to them that can never fully be repaid. And say a prayer for all those currently serving our Nation in harm's way.

Happy Memorial Day and may God continue to bless Virginia and the United States!

Esam Omeish

Dr. Esam Omeish is running for the House of Delegates in Virginia's 35th District here in Fairfax County. He is also the Chief of Surgery at INOVA Alexandria Hospital, a first generation immigrant, a father of four, a community leader, and a long time advocate for quality healthcare and job creation. Please come help us get this amazing leader elected!

He's Like a Train Wreck: Cheney, More Than Ever, is In the News

Henry M — Fri, 22 May 2009 08:21:23 EDT

http://www.mcclatchydc.com/226/story/68643.html

Cheney's speech ignored some inconvenient truths
Full text of Cheney's speech

Luis Alvarez / AP
Former Vice President Dick Cheney speaks Thursday at the American Enterprise Institute.
By Jonathan S. Landay and Warren P. Strobel | McClatchy Newspapers
WASHINGTON — Former Vice President Dick Cheney's defense Thursday of the Bush administration's policies for interrogating suspected terrorists contained omissions, exaggerations and misstatements.
In his address to the American Enterprise Institute, a conservative policy organization in Washington, Cheney said that the techniques the Bush administration approved, including waterboarding — simulated drowning that's considered a form of torture — forced nakedness and sleep deprivation, were "legal" and produced information that "prevented the violent death of thousands, if not hundreds of thousands, of innocent people."
He quoted the Director of National Intelligence, Adm. Dennis Blair, as saying that the information gave U.S. officials a "deeper understanding of the al Qaida organization that was attacking this country."
In a statement April 21, however, Blair said the information "was valuable in some instances" but that "there is no way of knowing whether the same information could have been obtained through other means. The bottom line is that these techniques hurt our image around the world, the damage they have done to our interests far outweighed whatever benefit they gave us and they are not essential to our national security."
A top-secret 2004 CIA inspector general's investigation found no conclusive proof that information gained from aggressive interrogations helped thwart any "specific imminent attacks," according to one of four top-secret Bush-era memos that the Justice Department released last month.
FBI Director Robert Mueller told Vanity Fair magazine in December that he didn't think that the techniques disrupted any attacks.
_ Cheney said that President Barack Obama's decision to release the four top-secret Bush administration memos on the interrogation techniques was "flatly contrary" to U.S. national security, and would help al Qaida train terrorists in how to resist U.S. interrogations.
However, Blair, who oversees all 16 U.S. intelligence agencies, said in his statement that he recommended the release of the memos, "strongly supported" Obama's decision to prohibit using the controversial methods and that "we do not need these techniques to keep America safe."
_ Cheney said that the Bush administration "moved decisively against the terrorists in their hideouts and their sanctuaries, and committed to using every asset to take down their networks."
The former vice president didn't point out that Osama bin Laden and his chief lieutenant, Ayman al Zawahri, remain at large nearly eight years after 9-11 and that the Bush administration began diverting U.S. forces, intelligence assets, time and money to planning an invasion of Iraq before it finished the war in Afghanistan against al Qaida and the Taliban.
There are now 49,000 U.S. troops in Afghanistan fighting to contain the bloodiest surge in Taliban violence since the 2001 U.S.-led intervention, and Islamic extremists also have launched their most concerted attack yet on neighboring, nuclear-armed Pakistan.
_ Cheney denied that there was any connection between the Bush administration's interrogation policies and the abuse of detainee at Iraq's Abu Ghraib prison, which he blamed on "a few sadistic guards . . . in violation of American law, military regulations and simple decency."
However, a bipartisan Senate Armed Services Committee report in December traced the abuses at Abu Ghraib to the approval of the techniques by senior Bush administration officials, including former Defense Secretary Donald H. Rumsfeld.
"The abuse of detainees in U.S. custody cannot simply be attributed to the actions of 'a few bad apples' acting on their own," said the report issued by Sens. Carl Levin, D-Mich., and John McCain, R-Ariz. "The fact is that senior officials in the United States government solicited information on how to use aggressive techniques, redefined the law to create the appearance of their legality and authorized their use against detainees."
_ Cheney said that "only detainees of the highest intelligence value" were subjected to the harsh interrogation techniques, and he cited Khalid Sheikh Mohammad, the alleged mastermind of the 9-11 attacks.
He didn't mention Abu Zubaydah, the first senior al Qaida operative to be captured after 9-11. Former FBI special agent Ali Soufan told a Senate subcommittee last week that his interrogation of Zubaydah using traditional methods elicited crucial information, including Mohammed's alleged role in 9-11.
The decision to use the harsh interrogation methods "was one of the worst and most harmful decisions made in our efforts against al Qaida," Soufan said. Former State Department official Philip Zelikow, who in 2005 was then-Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice's point man in an internal fight to overhaul the Bush administration's detention policies, joined Soufan in his criticism.
_ Cheney said that "the key to any strategy is accurate intelligence," but the Bush administration ignored warnings from experts in the CIA, the Defense Intelligence Agency, the State Department, the Department of Energy and other agencies, and used false or exaggerated intelligence supplied by Iraqi exile groups and others to help make its case for the 2003 invasion.
Cheney made no mention of al Qaida operative Ali Mohamed al Fakheri, who's known as Ibn Sheikh al Libi, whom the Bush administration secretly turned over to Egypt for interrogation in January 2002. While allegedly being tortured by Egyptian authorities, Libi provided false information about Iraq's links with al Qaida, which the Bush administration used despite doubts expressed by the DIA.
A state-run Libyan newspaper said Libi committed suicide recently in a Libyan jail.
_ Cheney accused Obama of "the selective release" of documents on Bush administration detainee policies, charging that Obama withheld records that Cheney claimed prove that information gained from the harsh interrogation methods prevented terrorist attacks.
"I've formally asked that (the information) be declassified so the American people can see the intelligence we obtained," Cheney said. "Last week, that request was formally rejected."
However, the decision to withhold the documents was announced by the CIA, which said that it was obliged to do so by a 2003 executive order issued by former President George W. Bush prohibiting the release of materials that are the subject of lawsuits.
_ Cheney said that only "ruthless enemies of this country" were detained by U.S. operatives overseas and taken to secret U.S. prisons.
A 2008 McClatchy investigation, however, found that the vast majority of Guantanamo detainees captured in 2001 and 2002 in Afghanistan and Pakistan were innocent citizens or low-level fighters of little intelligence value who were turned over to American officials for money or because of personal or political rivalries.
In addition, German Chancellor Angela Merkel said on Oct. 5, 2005, that the Bush administration had admitted to her that it had mistakenly abducted a German citizen, Khaled Masri, from Macedonia in January 2004.
Masri reportedly was flown to a secret prison in Afghanistan, where he allegedly was abused while being interrogated. He was released in May 2004 and dumped on a remote road in Albania.
In January 2007, the German government issued arrest warrants for 13 alleged CIA operatives on charges of kidnapping Masri.
_ Cheney slammed Obama's decision to close the Guantanamo Bay prison camp and criticized his effort to persuade other countries to accept some of the detainees.
The effort to shut down the facility, however, began during Bush's second term, promoted by Rice and Defense Secretary Robert Gates.
"One of the things that would help a lot is, in the discussions that we have with the states of which they (detainees) are nationals, if we could get some of those countries to take them back," Rice said in a Dec. 12, 2007, interview with the British Broadcasting Corp. "So we need help in closing Guantanamo."
_ Cheney said that, in assessing the security environment after 9-11, the Bush team had to take into account "dictators like Saddam Hussein with known ties to Mideast terrorists."
Cheney didn't explicitly repeat the contention he made repeatedly in office: that Saddam cooperated with al Qaida, a linkage that U.S. intelligence officials and numerous official inquiries have rebutted repeatedly.
The late Iraqi dictator's association with terrorists vacillated and was mostly aimed at quashing opponents and critics at home and abroad.
The last State Department report on international terrorism to be released before 9-11 said that Saddam's regime "has not attempted an anti-Western terrorist attack since its failed plot to assassinate former President (George H.W.) Bush in 1993 in Kuwait."
A Pentagon study released last year, based on a review of 600,000 Iraqi documents captured after the U.S.-led invasion, concluded that while Saddam supported militant Palestinian groups — the late terrorist Abu Nidal found refuge in Baghdad, at least until Saddam had him killed — the Iraqi security services had no "direct operational link" with al Qaida.

Henry M

What community Says About Doctor Esam Omeish

Esam Omeish — Tue, 12 May 2009 00:54:17 EDT

Call it a sign of the times. Despite his stellar record in the community as both a physician and activist for the needy, there is a vocal minority with extreme views in the blogosphere and media who want to distort and tarnish the good name of Dr. Esam Omeish. Read below a few direct comments made by a variety of well-respected community leaders and professionals about Dr. Esam Omeish as they defend his character:

Virginia's Governor Tim Kaine: "Dr. Omeish is a respected physician and community leader."

Father Jerry Creeden, : "Words of support from the Faith community, the Commonwealth (of Virginia) is for all of us."

Rabbi J. Moline: "I am sorry that the juggernaut of prejudice" "I would welcome your defense. This is an extended hand from my community, let us do something together."

Attorney Vic Glasberg: "You have handled with grace the indignity visited upon you. What you said was understandable and suitable for its context, and its misuse is regrettable and an injury to us all."

Kate Hanley, Virginia Secretary of State: "Dr. Omeish is one of two elected from his peers from among more than 300 physicians, and he was the recipient of the "Outstanding Physician of the Year Award" for 2007 in Alexandria Hospital".

Many doctors, nurses, hospital administrators, and patients who know Dr. Omeish personally also felt compelled to write their words of support for him. Below is just a couple of statements exemplifying how strongly his colleagues support him.

Dr. L. Kerness: "I have known you (Dr. Omeish) as a caring and skilled surgeon, a gentleman, and a family man. It is hard to imagine you as anything other that a pacifist. Rest assured that I, and all those I have spoken to, have not waivered in our support of you as a person and a surgeon, and are not swayed by media hype and political propaganda. I wish you and your family peace during this stressful time, and remember that this too shall pass."

E. Bushmiller, RN, CNOR, B. Engler, BSN, CNOR, C. Hortman, RN: "The one thing we would like to make clear is the commitment Dr. Omeish has to democracy and more importantly peace. He is a committed family man, hard working and capable surgeon, and a good person. He is knowledgeable in basic tenets of the three Abrahimic religions and points to areas where they intersect, always searching for common ground. We are upset and disheartened with what has happened to Dr. Omeish. We wish to speak up on his behalf."

As the Chief of General Surgery at Alexandria Hospital, Dr. Esam Omeish has earned the highest praise from his colleagues and patients because of his tireless and unconditional advocacy for the highest quality patient care, regardless of a patient's financial status. With your assistance, Dr. Esam Omeish will represent Virginia's 35th District with the same passion as a healthcare advocate at it's General Assembly. He will bring to Richmond his same caring ethical standards and proven leadership skills that have led Dr. Omeish to winning the "Outstanding Physician of the Year Award" in 2007.

We must be able to compete and deliver our winning message of building on the successes of Governors Mark Warner and Tim Kaine. The time to make a much-needed investment in our campaign is now.

Even a small contribution of $10 or $20 makes a real difference.

Donate

Over the past few days, Esam has withstood attacks and has continued to focus on talking to voters about his fresh ideas, chairing his comprehensive plans for Accessible quality healthcare, improve NoVA transportaion, Conscientious environmental stewardship, and Continued excellence in education.

With just less than one month to go, we need your help to make sure Esam can be heard over the chorus of attacks, and spread his positive message throughout the 35th District.

To take a stand with Esam, please make a contribution today.

Let's give Dr. Omeish the opportunity to be the same role model for Virginians for which he has already been awarded by his medical peers at Alexandria Hospital. Help Dr. Omeish to give excellence in healthcare to all Virginians.

To GET INVOLVED!

To Contribute

Together We Can!

Obama's Hamburger Hamlet - Much Ado About Mustard

Mark Wiznitzer — Fri, 08 May 2009 17:19:44 EDT

To be, or not to be medium well, that is the question!
In the most high and palmy District of Washington.
A little ere 100 days the mightiest Republicans fell,
Were storefronts now tenantless, and swine flue fright doth rule,
Did gibber of Ray's Steaks and Hell Burgers in Arlington streets.

Where Geithner and Bernanke proclaimed that
Both a borrower and a lender be;
For loan oft gains both votes and friends,
And borrowing stimulates weary economy.

Find out the cause of this effect,
Because the Commander in Chief hungereth.
Or rather say, the cause of this detect,
For this effect defective comes by cause,
So with his VP escapeth his White Castle.

Not a computer mouse stirring.
And then it started like a guilty thing
Upon a fearful summons.
But, look, the noon, in hungered mantle clad,
Obama rides o'er the slew of yon high shills.
The memory be green of Arugula farmers,
With Biden that less than kin, yet more than kind.
That it should come to this!

"Season your admiration with a spicy mustard."
The President's baked meats
Did coldly furnish forth their ratings tables.

Words, words, words.
Give thy thoughts no tongue, except on talk radio.
Why, Rush, a robustious periwig-pated fellow,
Very like a whale,
Would hang on him,
As if increase of appetite had grown
By what it fed on.

Sean cried "Thrift, thrift, Horatio Alger!
All is not well; I suspect some French socialist Dijon foul play.
Something is rotten in the state of Virginia."

Alas, poor Yokels! We knew them, Ho-radio.
Tis as easy as lying.
What! Frighted with false ire?
The loonies doth protest too much, methinks.
They have a plentiful lack of wits.
More matter, with less condiments.
There is nothing either good nor bad, but thinking makes it so tasty.

"This above all: to thine own self be true,
Medium-well it must follow, as the night the day,
Thou canst not then be false to any man.
Brevity is the soul of wit:
"No ketchup" commandeth the Prince.

Lord! we know what we are, but know not what we may be.
For I am more a modern Lincoln than an FDR.
He was a man, take him for all in all,
We shall not look upon his like again.

A king of shreds and patches worthy of GQ.
Not just a rhapsody of words.
For the apparel oft proclaims the man.
Report me and my cause aright
To the unemployed.
Come, my limo!
Good-night sides;
Good night, sweet relish;
Good night.

THE IMPORTANCE OF EDUCATION

Esam Omeish — Tue, 28 Apr 2009 17:32:29 EDT

When I came to the United States as an ESL student, I chose to apply myself academically in order to meet my personal goals in life. I realized that to make my dreams of being both a doctor and a public servant in America come true, I would need to work extra hard to learn English as well as all other required high school subjects. Despite the great language challenges that I faced, I was able to excel at school. I graduated from Fairfax County's J.E.B. Stuart High with honors and a perfect 4.0 grade point average.

I have appreciated from an early age the opportunities that hard work combined with a quality education can provide to anyone living in America. I pursued my education with a double major in Biology and Government at Georgetown University, making the Dean's List each year. I then completed my schooling at The Georgetown School of Medicine. With the support of my nearby parents and siblings, I was proud to become the first doctor ever in the Omeish family.
I am now raising the next Omeish generation as students of the same Fairfax County public school system that I attended. As the beneficiary of a system nurturing academic excellence, I would like my children to have the same quality education I was fortunate enough to have available growing up. I will work hard to preserve the same high standard of education I benefited from as a Fairfax County student for my own children as well as for all of the students of Virginia.

With your help, I would like to represent Virginia's citizens on education issues as Virginia's 35th District Delegate. I will work to have Virginia's General Assembly consider policies that will encourage even greater opportunities for our next generation of students. I know that the brightest future possible for Virginians will only be through a Virginia education system that provides our youth with a solid foundation critical for it's success.

GET INVOLVED! Help me be Virginia's next 35th District Delegate

Omeish For Delegate Web site
Contribute

HPP CALLED FOR THE ANNULMENT OF THE ELECTIONS.

Jacob Fran�ois — Wed, 22 Apr 2009 15:15:29 EDT

A PARTICIPATION RATE LOWER THAN THE 5% FORECASTED BY HAITIAN PRIORITIES PROJECT

(HPP). HPP CALLED FOR THE ANNULMENT OF THE ELECTIONS.

http://www.hpp4haiti.com/english_annulment.htm

HAITIAN PRIORITIES PROJECT (HPP) takes this opportunity to thank all of its partners and contributors who helped achieved a careful and precise pre-election poll conducted in record time. Success was achieved despite the difficulties encountered in Haiti to produce reports in a time-sensitive manner. With the information provided to us by the people and our workers, and their respect for democratic principles in relaying and analyzing the facts as the people reported, our survey is by far the closest to the reality of the so-called elections on 19 April 2009.

To our beloved people, we send our applause and eternal gratitude for having once again demonstrated peace, serenity and political savyness. Your show of ingenuity and resilience against this undemocratic election gave a lesson of democracy to the CEP, the government of Haiti, and the international community. This past week has been a testament to the true will and might of the people. HAITIAN PRIORITIES PROJECT simultaneously deplores the attacks of 19 April 2009 against election workers, politicians and the general public. We condemn acts of violence by militants and soldiers, against the people, trying to force them to vote in elections without complying with democratic norms. We say "shame" to those who have tried by flawed polls to influence the election results on behalf of wealthy patrons who completely ignore the welfare of our nation. Shame also to the security forces national and international operating in the country. These individuals who are supposed to be concerned with the safety of the people of Haiti, and the security of its streets proved unable to, despite the few participants in the streets, in order to protect the population against the violence of the enemies of democracy.
Key points
HPP has completed its analysis of the electoral procedures enacted by the senate on behalf of the Electoral College, and the application of the rules in the partial elections of 19 April 2009. It is necessary to report clear and serious cases of violation against articles 97, 121,125, 166 and 203. Detailed data on these issues were presented to the Provisional Electoral Council (CEP) prior to the elections. We have verified these violations as being true and the behavior of CEP regarding these concerns was illegal and unreliable based on the aforementioned articles.

HPP has found evidence of abuse by the electoral commission in favor of LESPWA candidates. Corpuscles belonging to the President of the Republic’s inner circle receivedexcessive and inappropriate support through the use of funds made available
and access to materials belonging to the state. They have exerted violence against elected officials and the public. These abuses have been demonstrated by the Senator of FUSION in the Central Plateau, Ms. Edmonde Bauzile Supplice, who claimed to be the subject of death threats. Heavily armed individuals have closed many polling stations.
Candidates for the Senate in the South East, Yves Dérisier (Fusion of Haitian Social Democrats) and Jean Pierre Joseph (Rassemblement National Progressive Democrats) have been officially withdrawn their candidacy from the race on Saturday 18 April 2009. Their withdrawals have been in protest to the decisions of the Conseil Electoral Provisoire (CEP) that they consider illegal.
The independent candidate Ronald St. Jean announced Thursday his withdrawal from the race because of many loopholes and violations by the establishment and the Electoral College machinery. He denounced the lack of a set of tools which should be the matrix of any serious election such as:

The participation rates are abnormally low across different constituencies eligible
The electoral register should have been available six months before the election, but still is not
The general electoral roll and electoral partial list should be ready for 60 days and 30 days respectively before the election.

These abuses occurred in several regions of the country. Although important in terms of elections and democratic principles, the aggregate number of violations from these irregularities is decisive to the slimmest extent.

Serious irregularities have occurred, and attempts to manipulate voting results are evident. There are major procedural violations. A number of election workers have been involved willingly or forced into acts of fraud. These irregularities also reflect a lack of control over the production of official documents including the accreditation of observers and the documents relating to official travel, which have been used to fraudulently claim the right to vote.

PPH does not in any way prejudge the prerogative given to CEP in making their own decisions, however, the facts at issue, are to submit its analysis in order to inform the public and to provide candidates and political parties an independent and objective   evaluation of the process.

HPP requests that all concerned remain calm and ensure that their apprehension of the elections is based solely on a neutral and rigorous analysis of electoral facts. With a rate of less than 5% of qualified individuals who took part in these elections, the CEP, thePresident and the international community can in no way validate these elections.

Participation rate
Official figures should show a national participation rate of less than 5%, or about 25% to 46% less than the turnout in the elections of 25 June 1995 Page 4. http://www.gao.gov/archive/1996/ns96147.pdf In 2006, the participation rate was 30%, based on statements made by David Wimhurst Spokesperson for the UN mission in Haiti. (see haitiprogres) www.haitiprogres.com/2006/sm060426/eng04-26.html
A participation rate this low simply reflects the wish of the people to stop the government of Préval/Pierre-Louis and the international community from reinstituting exclusion in Haiti. It was a strong and vigorous message and mobilization by the Lavalas Party: "PÒT FEMEN, LARI BLANCH. However, offices or polling centers that display higher participation rates than others in their areas deserve further attention. Moreover, if the results of these offices heavily favor one candidate, this could indicate an attempt to manipulate the result of the elections through ballot stuffing or fraudulent votes made in the absence of witnesses or observers.

HPP lead its election observation in accordance with the Declaration of Principles for International Election Observation and Code of Conduct adopted by the United Nations in 2005. These principles should have been utilized uniformly to abate and nullify this farce election.

Vienna Physician Kicks Off Campaign Dr. Esam Omeish pledges support for health care, transportation and education.

Esam Omeish — Wed, 22 Apr 2009 14:23:55 EDT

By Donna Manz, The Connection
Wednesday, April 22, 2009

Dr. Esam Omeish is running in the 35th District Democratic primary on June 9, and on Saturday, he kicked off his campaign in a room crowded with cheering supporters. A practicing physician and Chief of General Surgery at Inova Alexandria Hospital, Omeish promises to advocate for affordable quality health care in the General Assembly in Richmond.

"I love Virginia and I’ve been involved in community activities since I came here. My candidacy is a continuation of a lifelong passion for public and community service.

"As a physician and health care provider, I think this year health care is going to be one of the major issues we bring to the General Assembly."

Omeish, of Vienna, came to the U.S. from Tripoli, Libya, as a youngster in 1982. He graduated from Jeb Stuart High School and received his undergraduate degree at Georgetown University, majoring in biology and government. He received his medical degree from Georgetown, as well. He is married to Dr. Badria Kafala and is the father of four children.

"His mother is my friend," said Riaza Ahmed of Vienna. "All our children go to the same school. Dr. Omeish grew up here so he knows what we need."

Beyond health care issues, Omeish said he is committed to continuing the region’s excellence in education, finding sustainable transportation solutions and supporting small business and job creation.

"He’s a very logical person," said Matthew Kavosi, Vienna resident and Omeish supporter. "He’s a very patriotic American who speaks the people’s language. What he says he really means."

Mukit Hossain, president of the Virginian Muslim Political Action Committee, said that, of the more-than 5,000 surgeries Omeish has performed, many of those were done at no charge to the patient. "He [Omeish] serves people in need whether they can afford it or not."

Supervisor John Foust (D-Dranesville), Board of Supervisors Chair Sharon Bulova (D-At-large) and the State Sen. George Barker (D-39) stopped by to congratulate Omeish on his candidacy.

"Quite frankly, I’ve found the General Assembly to be somewhat limited by its partisan politics," Omeish said. "I think the Assembly is in need of independent, strong and fresh voices to transcend partisanship."

Omeish Campaign Kick-Off Huge Success!

Esam Omeish — Mon, 20 Apr 2009 14:57:33 EDT

Dr. Esam Omeish had a full house for his Campaign Kickoff Party at the Vienna Firehouse this past Saturday. The party was the official start of Dr. Esam Omeish's race for Virginia's 35th District Delegate. Over 250 supporters came and listened to Dr. Esam Omeish speak about issues like healthcare, education, and the economy.

"This is an exciting time to be engaged in politics" said Dr. Omeish. Speaking about his experience as a Physician and one of the only Surgeons in Va that has a clinic that provides free surgeries to the uninsured and under insured. Dr. Omeish went on to say that "First, I am a physician, an advocate of health care and a staunch supporter of the right of all Americans and all Virginians to have accessible, affordable, quality health care. This year is the year for serious health care reform and I want to be part of that change"

Special political guests who came to congratulate Dr. Esam Omeish included Fairfax County Board of Supervisors Chairwoman Sharon Bulova, State Senator of VA 39th District George Barker, Drainesville District Board of Supervisors John Foust, and Maryland State Delegate Saqib Ali.

Click here to see photo gallery

Statement on Anniversary of Virginia Tech Tragedy

Esam Omeish — Thu, 16 Apr 2009 18:32:56 EDT

Today’s second anniversary of the tragic shooting at Virginia Tech is another sobering reminder to all Virginians for a long overdue change of leadership in the Virginia General Assembly.

As our thoughts and prayers go out to the victims, their families and the Virginia Tech community, I will be working hard for new proposals to effect more protection of Virginia's citizens through stricter gun control laws. As a surgeon who has witnessed on numerous occasions the lethal effects of gun violence firsthand in the emergency room, I will be working wholeheartedly to help protect Virginians from falling victim to such senseless violence again.

As an elected Delegate, I will be a determined advocate for progressive gun laws that prevent such a tragedy from ever happening again to our commonwealth.

Esam Omeish

Is there a Doctor in the House?

Esam Omeish — Tue, 14 Apr 2009 17:38:17 EDT

Dear Friends,

Is there a Doctor in the House?

During these hard times, many Americans have realized just how critical solving our nation's health care crisis has become. Closer to home, thousands of Virginians and their families have lost their employer-provided health care and are living on the bubble, hoping a medical disaster does not strike their household.

Currently, we have no Democratic doctors in Virginia's House of Delegates. As the Chief of General Surgery at INOVA Alexandria Hospital, I have the expertise and perspective Virginia's legislature needs when considering health care policy. I have personally witnessed the disastrous effects this latest economic downturn has had on Virginia's patients. I am committed to providing the best health care possible for both insured and uninsured patients alike. As chairman of a local free medical clinic, we provided free clinical and surgical healthcare to uninsured patients who would otherwise have to go without the necessary medical services. I continue to serve through "Project Access", a program which connects uninsured patients with doctors who will provide them necessary care.

Our campaign for Delegate in Virginia's 35th District is an extension of my life's work to help people. My perspective as a practicing surgeon and my involvement in the community will enable me to give better direction for Virginia's General Assembly to consider policies beneficial to the health and well-being of Virginia's citizens. It is imperative that every Virginian has adequate preventative health care regardless of their circumstances.

With your help, I will be the only Democratic "Doctor in the House"

The election is on Tuesday, June 9th. We need your help and support. We will be sending out weekly email updates about the campaign, and we'd love your feedback. We hope that you will get involved with our campaign.

Together, we can!

The Omeish for Delegate Team
Please visit Esam Omeish's campaign website for more.

http://www.omeishfordelegate.com

To contribute:
http://www.omeishfordelegate.com/contribute.html

You People

Henry M — Sun, 05 Apr 2009 08:16:32 EDT

The meeting in the Capitol's Strom Thurmond Room on March 11 was a Republican effort led by Sens. McCain of Arizona, John Thune of South Dakota, and Mel Martinez of Florida to reach out to Hispanics. But two people who attended the session say they were taken aback by McCain's anger.
What began as a collegial airing of views abruptly changed when McCain spoke about immigration, according to these sources, who asked not to be identified for fear of retribution. Anonymity was also requested by a third source, who was not at the meeting but was told, independently of the other two, that McCain had displayed his notorious temper.
"He was angry," one source said. "He was over the top. In some cases, he rolled his eyes a lot. There were portions of the meeting where he was just staring at the ceiling, and he wasn't even listening to us. We came out of the meeting really upset."
McCain's message was obvious, the source continued: After bucking his party on immigration, he had no sympathy for Hispanics who are dissatisfied with President Obama's pace on the issue. "He threw out [the words] 'You people -- you people made your choice. You made your choice during the election,' " the source said. "It was almost as if [he was saying] 'You're cut off!' We felt very uncomfortable when we walked away from the meeting because of that."

Henry M

Virginia Democrats

Candace N. - V.O.B — Tue, 31 Mar 2009 02:21:33 EDT

Fellow Virginia Democrats we have a tight gubernatorial race. I have listened to all of the candidates and have done research on all of them. We have strong candidates but I feel that Terry McAuliffe is the best one for Virginia. He thinks out of the box, he is intelligent and he is passionate about matters concerning our state. If you have followed his career there is no mistaking that when he sets his mind to getting something done he won't stop until he does. I don't see that same determination from some of the other candidates. With the economy in peril and with important issues like education, the environment and unemployment affecting Virginians, we have to make sure that we elect the most qualified person to address these issues, and that person is Mr. Terry McAuliffe. I attended the Alexandria, Virginia office opening and I was glad to meet so many people that volunteered for President Obama. I challenge you to do your research, listen to all of the candidates and it will become clear to you that Mr. McAuliffe is the right choice for Governor. I hope you will join me in supporting him with all of the dedication that you showed when you supported President Obama. Go to terrymcauliffe.com and to see how you can support the candidate with the ideas to make Virginia's future brighter.

Stimulating the Economy

Clay Smith — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 09:59:12 EDT

One method of putting money in the hands of middle class people who are struggling to make ends meet is to allow the withdrawal of funds from their 401K accounts without incurring penalties or excessive fees. Waiving restrictions on these withdrawals and IRS early withdrawal penalties will enable people to access their money and it will not add to the deficit while putting money in the hands of those in need.

Comments posted by Clay Smith are his personal views not those of any organization he represents.

A Man of the People

Henry M — Tue, 17 Mar 2009 10:54:54 EDT

WASHINGTON — President Barack Obama took a break from politics Friday to sit courtside at a basketball game between his hometown team Chicago Bulls and the Washington Wizards.
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2009/02/28/obama-attends-wizards-gam_n_170731.html
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XA4P50_hDbY

Unlike the former owner of the Texas Rangers, our new POTUS sat courtside and obviously really enjoyed the watching the Bulls, even though they lost to the Wizards.

The Obama Presidency: Day Eighteen

EsquireUK — Sat, 07 Feb 2009 12:30:51 EST

Saturday, 7th February 2009

Washington, D.C.

www.whitehouse.gov

Saturday, February 7th, 2009 at 5:00 amCompromise

There was bad news and then there was good news.

Yesterday we learned that in January, the country suffered its largest one-month job loss in 34 years.

But last night, the Senate struck a compromise on the economic recovery plan and put us on our way to giving the economy the short-term jolt and long-term investments it needs.

"Americans across this country are struggling, and they are watching to see if we're equal to the task before us," the President says in this morning's Weekly Address. "Let's show them that we are."

Watch the President's address and read the full text below.

http://www.whitehouse.gov/blog_post/compromise1/

www.whitehouse.gov

Driving the Conversation:

A Deal? Plus, what should Obama tell the nation Monday to rally support for the recovery plan?

There are closed responses: restore

Dean Baker, Co-director, Center for Economic Policy Research:
It looks like the senators have cut 500,000 jobs out of the stimulus package. All the people who will be unemployed thanks to the senators' hard work should send them a thank you note.

It will be interesting to see if Senator Isakson's $15,000 home flipping tax credit stays in. I know that members of Congress have struggled to find something that is less helpful to the
economy, but no one has been able to beat this one so far.
- Permalink
Gebe Martinez, Journalist:
After listening to the debate almost all day, it is easy to see both sides of the debate: Republicans complained that the original bill had excessive spending, but Democrats argued that the government needs to spend to grow jobs and stimulate the economy.
The prevailing issue for the public is an immediate fix for this broken economy that continues to hurt ordinary Americans.

In the end, the spending was cut -- sometimes at the expense of programs that could have helped local school districts and governments -- but for the sake of passage.
Democrats should not complain. If the programs were good enough to include in the stimulus, they will be worthy enough to stand on their on during the regular appropriations and authorization process. Congress needs to pass the stimulus package, share the credit or blame, and move on to other issues left unresolved by the failed Bush presidency.
- Permalink
Steve Steckler, Chairman and founder, Infrastructure Management Group (IMG):
My understanding is that almost all of the pork and narrowly-focused provisions were cut and enough "real" (non-education) infrastructure spending was retained to pick up a few votes. This is still a bill that should have been divided into separate pieces, and too much of the bill indistinguishable from a non-recession Democratic agenda. I expect it to pass 67-30, with Republicans still planning to eviscerate Democrats in 2010 after it fails to generate a bona fide recovery. By that time, however, the banking and credit initiatives begun under Bush may have had sufficient impact that it will be hard to distinguish which of the two initiatives are responsible for whatever improvement occurs.
- Permalink
Fred Barbash, Moderator:
Sen. Lieberman says on the floor that there are now 60 Senate votes for a compromise. "Tonight we're going to do it."--8:02 pm EST
Do have a deal?
Or at least a "purported deal?"
Or are we just "close"?"
- Permalink
Charles W. Calomiris, Professor of Financial Institutions, Columbia:
The so-called recovery plan is not worthy of the President's support, since it makes no sense and will not work as a recovery plan, which is why it has received little support from independent economists or from moderate or conservative politicians. By attacking opponents of the plan as partisan and pretending that the plan makes sense economically, the President has already substantially damaged his credibility with moderates. He is also showing a lack of leadership and negotiating skills to rein in the worst elements within his party in Congress. These mistakes have already cost him, and could hurt him in the important upcoming negotiations ahead over foreclosure relief and assistance to banks, where his leadership will be needed to achieve consensus on these important initiatives.

It is not too late for the President to reshape the recovery plan over the weekend to achieve a desirable result. Pushing to include a significant and long-lived cut in the payroll tax (say, for four years) would allow him to take the high ground. Such a tax cut would have a large and immediate effect on job creation (I challenge any economist to say that it would not!), and would avoid associating him politically with the McCain tax proposal (which he obviously is keen to avoid). He could offset the cost of that tax cut by eliminating the pork in the plan, which will cost him a little support from the left, but allow him to attract moderates and even some conservatives. Most importantly, that would show true leadership at a crucial time. If the President just pushes for "victory" in passing the recovery plan, it will prove a Pyrrhic victory, both for himself and for the economy.
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Elizabeth A. Sherman, Trachtenberg School of Public Policy and Public Admin., GW University:
President Obama should deliver the signature message that first brought him to national prominence - we are not red states or blue states, we are the United States. We are in an economic and social emergency with millions losing their jobs, homes and savings. People who played by the rules are angry and have every right to be. But, we must address the crisis as effectively and quickly as possible. We can return to a robust, expansive and just economy but to do so will require three things: (1) targeting tax cuts and other incentives to get the private sector investing and hiring again with confidence in the return of customers and profits; (2) generating jobs through infrastructure construction and green industries; and, (3) helping those hardest hit with expanded unemployment, retraining and health care. Yes, we have to borrow to accomplish our goals but these are nothing more and nothing less than the necessary and overdue investments that will return on our economy to healthy growth through renewed profits, savings, investments, jobs and development. To meet this challenge, we have to pull together take the necessary steps to guarantee a more dynamic and prosperous future for all.
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Dean Baker, Co-director, Center for Economic Policy Research:
He should tell the country that the economy lost more than 600,000 jobs in January (this is before the jobs numbers were released) and that it is likely to lose as many or more in February. The only thing that can stop this slide is a large government stimulus package.
He should tell the public that we got into this mess because the people running economic policy were unbelievably irresponsible and allowed an $8 trillion housing bubble to grow unchecked. They either refused to notice this huge bubble, which should have been evident to any competent economist, or somehow thought the disappearance of $8 trillion in wealth when the bubble burst ($110,000 for every homeowner in the country) would not create a problem for the economy. More...
Now, the people who led us into this disaster are trying to prevent us from rescuing the economy. They are nitpicking a huge bill -- which must be huge to lift a $15 trillion economy -- with petty complaints about some tiny program that they don't like.

He should point out that the public rejected the politics and the economics of the stimulus opponents last fall. He should call on voters to remind members of Congress about the election and to tell them that they want action to fix the economy, not petty complaints that the stimulus bill is not exactly as they would like it.
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- Steve Steckler, Chairman and founder, Infrastructure Management Group (IMG):
  I urge every Arena reader to cut out and paste onto their monitor Dean's second paragraph. Why?Because that second one -- about the cause of our crisis -- is the whole truth, and it's also exactly what Obama hasn't said so far. But now to his third paragraph, about "the people who led us into this disaster." Only one of those who "allowed an $8 trillion dollar housing bubble to grow unchecked," as Dean put it, still has his job: House Financial Services Chairman Barney Frank, who in defending Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac against added regulation said "the more people exaggerate these problems, the more pressure there is on these companies, the less we will see in terms of affordable housing" and that they were "not facing any kind of crisis." Shortly thereafter, American taxpayers found themselves on the hook for nearly a trillion dollars in cash infusions, guarantees and GSE-related CDS settlement losses. This is the same House leader who crafted much of the Obama-backed stimulus package. So yes, Dean, the scoundrels are still at it.
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Steve Steckler, Chairman and founder, Infrastructure Management Group (IMG):
He should tell them what he has failed to tell them up till now: the root causes of the illness and precisely how each of the remedies he is proposing will cure it, not just salve the symptoms. For Obama to say "this is not a game" implies that the people who disagree with him are merely working for political gain, but that argument is beneath his intelligence. My sense is that Democrats are being paralyzed by their own rhetorical straightjacket here: they can't talk about collateral collapse, inter-bank risk perception or iteratively-shrinking balance sheets without Americans wondering (after fleeing to a dictionary) why we are spending a trillion dollars on things unrelated to those root causes. It is politically expedient to declare that pain relief is all that matters, but real leadership -- the stuff we were promised -- would do whatever it takes to make sure we don't find ourselves 18 months from now with still-declining GDP and wondering where all that money went.
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Thomas E. Mann, Senior Fellow, Governance Studies, Brookings:
He should tell the country that our economy runs a serious risk of deflation and extended recession with growing unemployment, possibly spiraling into a depression. Cleaning up the financial markets and quickly passing a large stimulus are essential if we are to avoid economic catastrophe. The stimulus needs to be very large and heavily weighted toward spending. To repeat: stimulus means spending to increase demand. The focus on pork barrel spending by critics and the media is akin to patrolling at the margins of a disaster. Most tax cuts will be less effective than spending. Efforts to tweak the package to get as many dollars out the door as quickly as possible and to direct that spending to programs that will have most long term benefits are useful, but those that would cut its overall size or reduce funds to cash-starved states are not. Concerns about the deficit should be directed to the years after the economy recovers, not now. The short-term danger is that a so-called responsible center will undermine the potency of the stimulus and make the task of achieving long-term fiscal balance all the more difficult.

Obama should tell the country he has extended his hand to the Republicans and it is now time for them to unclench their fists.
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Bradley A. Smith, Professor, election law and campaign finance:
He’s got to make a case for the bill that goes beyond stating a) we need change and b) this particular bill is necessary, will create jobs, and restore economic health. Because right now, a growing number of people don’t believe any part of that second proposition. It is not enough to keep asserting things as true, or appealing to an imaginary “consensus” of economists that doesn’t really exist. The President should pull up Reagan’s early appeals to the nation from 1981. He’ll see that Reagan claimed no false consensus among experts. He did not just assert that his plan would work. He explained what he thought was the problem, and why he thought that his proposals would work to produce the desired results and so benefit Americans. Then he appealed to Americans to make their own judgments. It was not a “trust me” approach.

The problem is, I am not sure that there is a respectable intellectual case for this stimulus bill. So the President might want to explain the problem, state that it is as important to get it right as to get it fast, note that Congress began drafting this before he took office (washing his hands a bit), and state that he wants the Senate to start over following some clear, enunciated principles that he sets forth in the speech. He’ll still meet opposition. There is not 80%, or even 60%, public support for his approach. But he’d break the fall.
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Eric Liu, Author and former Clinton White House adviser, WA:
President Obama needs to tell a story, in this sequence and with this tone:

Our economy has faltered because of a decade of national leaders in every sector who worshipped at the altar of the market. We stopped investing in the future; worse, we started spending our grandchildren's inheritance to gamble for quick and illusory riches. Government fell asleep at the switch, letting scammers scam and neglecting the state of our economy's human and physical infrastructure. Now we have to take bold corrective action -- and we will. My recovery plan puts money in middle-class pockets right now, invests strategically for the future, and sends a signal to the world that America will act. More...
Critics will quibble about this piece or that piece, and where it's reasonable, we have tried to accommodate them. But to be very clear, this is not just another Washington winter -- either we act now, with boldness, or we will earn the scorn of future generations. The Republicans have every right, as the opposition party, to oppose. But there is no scenario where we return to a mentality of looking after the wealthiest and hoping that opportunity will trickle down; or where we put all our faith in tax cuts and the hidden hand and leave our schools, our electric grids and our roads to decay. People from both parties worry rightly about the scale of our debt -- and I say to you, we can either prime the pump aggressively or we can let it sit idle. But it's not an academic debate. There's a fire burning, and I know what we have to do. Will we get it perfect? No. This country elected me to lead, to try what works, and to keep trying. I am going to do that relentlessly until our economy recovers and the United States is leading the world back to economic health.
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Malika Saada Saar, Executive Director, Rebecca Project for Human Rights:
Take it directly to the people, Mr. President.

The belief in bipartisanship and a deliberative conversation across ideology and partisanship is perhaps too much to ask of an entrenched Congress, but not the American people. It is the every day folk who are directly suffering from a collapsing economy, who have confronted the threat of foreclosure, the loss of jobs and health care, and the fading of the highest aspirations for their children--these persons, our American families, are most capable of surmounting calcified partisanship divides to discuss with you the Economic Stimulus Bill.

Our American families, who have lost their jobs, over 500,000 in January alone, will soon be at the mercy of social welfare agencies to seek out food, shelter, and medical services for their children. That's the precise reason it is necessary for you to fortify and buttress safety-net programs for children and families in the Stimulus Bill, while trimming a generation of failed GOP corporate-welfare programs that have brought us to this brink of economic disaster. More...
Our American families, whether in deeply Republican or Democratic communities, in small rural or densely urban regions of this nation, are the most capable of engaging you, Mr. President, in a bipartisan, non-ideological conversation on what America needs to economically recover. They know best, because of the loss of their wages, healthcare, homes, and the disintegrating foundation of a middle-class life. They know what the repeated failures of approved tax cuts and excessive pork spending to “bridges to no where” have cost us.

As you have reminded us before Mr. President, this needs to be a bottom up conversation. Take it the people.
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Christine Pelosi, Attorney, author and Democratic activist:
President Obama should speak to our heads, our hearts, and our hopes.

Speak to our heads: we can handle the truth. Show us the numbers behind the economic crisis and what they mean to our communities. We've been burned before - from the WMDs, "mushroom clouds" and purported 9/11 connections in Iraq to the sky-is-falling-over-wall-street-so-give-us-700-billion-or-else TARP threats - so forgive us our skepticism and walk us through the problem with candor not defensiveness. Show us the federal investment spending - how it will address our pocketbook concerns and position us to compete in a 21st century economy with modern jobs, health care, education, and energy policy. Charts, graphics, and citations always help. Show us the federal tax cut spending - how your $235 billion in tax cuts in your first three weeks are larger than your predecessor's combined $188.1 billion in tax cuts in his first three years, and why your bottom-up approach is superior for working Americans than the old -top-down or tax-cut alone models. Identify the Democratic and the Republican contributions to your plan so we can see the fruits of your post-partisan labors. More...
Speak to our hearts: we can fix this together. You often speak in a three-part arc: first outlining the problems, then addressing the obstacles to progress, then telling us what we can do together to make change. We need that now. Our biggest obstacle to progress is cynicism. Fight it: remind us why we should be our brother and sister's keeper when some of our brothers and sisters were reckless or greedy or not the good citizens we strive to be. We need to know that we are not powerless to change our individual circumstances and that those who benefit from our goodwill will not abuse it (again) without consequence.

Speak to our hopes: frankly, we're angry and scared, but we still believe in a better future. Ours is not an emotional anger or childish fear, but a slow burning fury at the recklessness and greed that contributed to this mess, and a deep anxiety for our families and our future. You tapped into this two years ago when you began your campaign, saying "Americans are in a sober place" looking for serious solutions. In electing you we chose hope over fear. Remind us now that we can do this. When your speech ends and the reporters cross-examine you on every conceivable line in your plan, run through this again - our heads, our hearts, our hopes - so we can see how your priorities help us meet ours. We know you didn't create this problem, but we hired you to clean it up. We know you need our help in thanking or urging our leaders to vote with you, so call us to action and we will help you deliver the change we promised each other.
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Sylvia L. Lovely, Kentucky League of Cities, NewCities Institute:
President Obama should do what only a president can do - he should move on from his firey "in front of a partisan crowd" speech of Thursday to a more sobered one. Quite simply - he should say Americans are suffering. As we in the heartland emerge from a mini ice age (where is global warming???) we see suffering first hand. The icy mess in the midst of plant closures and job losses reminded us of local heroes who, despite the odds, soldier on. One 83 year-old in an isolated farmhouse who seemed puzzled by being interviewed by CNN, described he and his wife simply as "survivors."
As for future speeches, I'd like to hear President Obama say that what we've been doing hasn't worked. Admit that though there is no clear roadmap, we must act now. TARP was something of a debacle but give me a break. Just like the tax lapses that are now visited upon us, we are reminded how we have forgotten to discern the difference between material issues (Daschle) and minor ones that will derail nearly anyone from public service. Call once again upon the public to take some responsibility and not blame everything on the government or corporate America. We too are culpable and have engaged for many years in the enjoyment of the bubble of excess. This is the test for Obama - he is conducting an orchestra and the signs of genius lie in knowing when to bring in the brass (knuckles?) and the drums (ouch - beat?) and the soft soothing sound of a cello.
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Pejman Yousefzadeh, Attorney and blogger:
The nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office has taken a good look at the President's stimulus plan. It does not like what it sees:
President Obama's economic recovery package will actually hurt the economy more in the long run than if he were to do nothing, the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office said Wednesday.
More...

CBO, the official scorekeepers for legislation, said the House and Senate bills will help in the short term but result in so much government debt that within a few years they would crowd out private investment, actually leading to a lower Gross Domestic Product over the next 10 years than if the government had done nothing.
CBO estimates that by 2019 the Senate legislation would reduce GDP by 0.1 percent to 0.3 percent on net. [The House bill] would have similar long-run effects, CBO said in a letter to Sen. Judd Gregg, New Hampshire Republican, who was tapped by Mr. Obama on Tuesday to be Commerce Secretary.
It would, of course, behoove Senator Gregg to tell his soon-to-be-boss that the stimulus plan being pushed by the Obama Administration will have deleterious long term effects. I am surprised that CBO actually believes the plan will work in the short term, given the mountain of evidence indicating the stimulus bill to be an impending short term failure. At bottom, even if one assumes that Keynesian stimulus can work--and let us remember that historically, it hasn't--the current legislative package is nothing more than a mini-budget that is more dedicated to funding Democratic domestic priorities than it is to stimulating the economy. Americans asked for an economic jump start. What they got instead was a Christmas tree for Democratic special interest groups.
President Obama now wants to address the country on Monday to revive support for his stimulus plan. The impending address presumes that the problem with the current legislative effort behind the stimulus plan is a public relations issue. It is not. Rather, the problem is that the legislative package the Administration is trying to sell has no intellectual credibility behind it and would constitute a massive public policy failure. No address will work unless it includes words like "we are scrapping this turkey of a bill and starting over."
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Fred Barbash, Moderator:
Obama names economic advisory counci-Mike Allen
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Marian Wright Edelman, President and founder, Children's Defense Fund:
President Obama needs to call upon Congress to put our country first when making decisions about the recovery plan—a plan that will put money into the hands of those who need it most and who will spend it quickly: our nation’s struggling low-and middle-income working families.

Increasing the number of families eligible for the Child Tax Credit by lowering the refundability threshold, expanding the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) for families with three or more children, and the expanded investments in Head Start, child care, education, fiscal relief for the states, and nutrition assistance will provide urgently needed assistance to hard-pressed families who are likely to quickly spend the money to meet their most basic survival needs. The expanded Child Tax Credit outlined in the House legislation, the increased EITC for larger families, and the "Making Work Pay" credit alone will protect an estimated 1.1 million children—and more than 2.5 million Americans—from falling into poverty.

President Obama should urge this country to make both educated and morally right investments. Every year we let 13 million children struggle to grow up in poverty costs our nation $500 billion in foregone productivity, increased crime and worse health. The investments in children and their families in the stimulus package are provisions that will lead to job creation and will put our entire nation — adults and children — on a path to economic recovery and future economic stability.
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Jeffrey C. Stewart, Professor of Black Studies:
I agree with Tom Korologos that President Obama needs to rally the nation with a sense of America's ability to bounce back from this economic crisis. We need an upbeat statement that "we can whip this thing if we put our shoulders to the wheel of the American economy and push together!" After all, no one knows for sure what combination of tax cuts and spending will work. No one, even the critics who say this stimulus bill won't work have ever actually led a nation out of this particular crisis. Nor have those who are sure the stimulus bill is what we need. We should pass the stimulus bill, but a stimulus bill is only a stimulus. What we need is a sense of collective purpose and resolve to turn stimulus into long-term growth. More...
He had some of that in the inauguration speech, but it needs to be even more positive now that we can whip this thing! And I agree with Silvia Lovely's comments a couple of posts ago that he needs to get down to the level of where people are struggling on a day to day level. He needs to visit Kentucky and lend moral and political support to Mayor Will Cox who is mobilizing people to deal with the aftereffects of the ice storms. Obama needs to tell people what they can do on the local level to help--employ someone to do odd jobs around the yard, volunteer at an agency helping the unemployed or an agency giving food to the homeless. Help think through at your place of work how money can be saved and perhaps a business saved in the process. He needs to ignite the spirit of volunteerism and "can-doism" that is so much a part of the American character to believe that the future can be better than the past. We need to hear him as fired up as he was yesterday the Democratic retreat about the American future.
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Joshua A. Tucker, Professor of Politics, NYU:
Obama should emphasize the following four points.
First and foremost, he should hammer home that the ultimate choice here is between having a stimulus and not having a stimulus, and there is very strong agreement among most economists that a stimulus is in fact necessary. As part of making this point, he should be very clear about the predicted consequences of not having a stimulus, especially in terms of lost jobs, extended recession, etc. Pundits are correct to note that if the government is going to spend this much money, voters need to have a clear idea of why the money is being spent.
Second, he needs to continue the rhetoric that he began using yesterday that the idea of tax cuts as a solution for all economic problems has been tried and has been found wanting. More...
Third, he needs to go on the offensive about what it means to be bipartisan. More specifically, he should be clear that this does not mean that the party that won the election adopts every proposal made by the party that lost the election. Instead, it is about trying to adopt good ideas, regardless of which party proposes them (which I believe reflects language he has previously used).

Finally, he should then follow this up by identifying some good ideas from Republicans that have been adopted and added to the stimulus (noting that some of them may have been added to the very first version of the bill proposed - bipartisanship does not by definition need to start after the initial bill has been proposed).
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Tom Korologos, Former ambassador, consultant and Republican strategist:
He should say “The only thing to fear is fear itself…” (Forgive me, but I suggested that to FDR some years ago and as I recall it’s already been used).The point is he should lay off the total negative gloom-and-doom-and-disaster-and-awful-and-it’s-getting worse-by-the-hour talk. He’s just adding to the mess. I’m not saying we want happy talk but why can’t he be positive and say “America’s best days are still ahead…Americans constantly bounce back from adversity…that’s the American way.” Also, lay off this corporate bashing. It wouldn’t hurt if there were at least ONE corporate executive—my gosh, I’ll accept a bar tender or a grocery store manager—who should be at the table Administration table who actually knows how business works. One of the problems with this Administration is there are too many former members of Congress in it and Congresses do two things best: Nothing and Overreact.
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Fred Barbash, Moderator:
I take no positions in Arena. But I will say this: Americans who voted for something new and different are getting something old and depressingly familiar from all sides in Congress: a tired rematch between Republicans and Democrats over tax cuts versus spending, with contraceptives tossed in for good measure.
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Larry J. Sabato, Professor of Politics, University of Virginia:
Hey, Mr. President--Any teacher can tell you: The secret to a good lecture is pie charts. Well, visual aids, generally. Budget pep talks, even from a charismatic President, are boring. Numbers are not Americans’ long suit. So go back to Ronald Reagan and Ross Perot, and use some visual aids to help viewers break down the enormous sum of the stimulus bill. Help people understand what you are trying to do by showing them, not just telling them. And isn’t it about time to marry your TV appeal with all the fancy technologies and lists of supporters that your campaign pioneered?
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David Biespiel, Poet and writer, Attic Writers Workshop:
When Ronald Reagan spoke on television and used his time to directly urge people to phone their congressmen and senators, you know an army of believers was going to get off the couch and make phone calls--and at that point the game was called.

President Obama should do the same, rally his believers directly, but not just use the telephone. He should call on his band of allies to phone, Facebook, meet-up, blog, e-mail, text, and Twitter their congressmen and senators, and repeatedly, and we will see whether or not "Yes, We Can" can transform as a slogan from electing a man to governing a nation.

Similar note: Fellow Arena commentator Bradley Blakeman has consistently chastised the Obama staff for not propping up the president in front of a joint session of Congress as Bradley did with President Bush in 2001. He has a point. But the White House staff seems confident in the president's recent press conferences during the transition, which the public has favored, also, and appear to be betting that their boss is better at it--taking difficult questions and answering them directly--than the previous president was. We'll see. More...
On substance: Democrats can be such nellies when it comes to stirring up fears in the public (protecting social security excepted) as a form of argument, The Bush administration made this tactic its stock in trade. But people are scared enough--scared of losing their jobs and health care and future savings. To win public support, the president needs to state clearly the straits the nation is in and how the stimulus plan is a first step to navigating the economy forward. He should state the willingness to negotiate particulars with the moderate coalitions, as well. By arguing for passing something over the purity of nothing, he's signaled that willingness already.
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- Bradley A. Blakeman, Republican strategist, consultant, entrepreneur:
  David, President Obama is a creature of the Teleprompter. He is clearly not comfortable or good at unscripted events. He makes Caroline Kennedy seem articulate sometimes with his “ums” and pregnant pauses. The reason I harp on a Joint Session Address is because he controls the message and delivers it directly to the people he is trying to influence. A press conference is NOT the place to sell a program that is historic in nature.
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  - David Biespiel, Poet and writer, Attic Writers Workshop:
    Bradley, we're in agreement already. When I wrote "The White House seems confident" followed by "We'll see" it was one part serrated interpretation, the other part curious skepticism.
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Randy Neugebauer, Rep., (R-Tx):
I am frustrated with President Obama’s recent criticism of Republican ideas. Hard-working families across this country are suffering. However, the Speaker Pelosi “stimulus” bill is nothing more than a big pork barrel spending spree that puts the future of our child and grandchildren at risk. Republicans want to work with President Obama to improve the recovery plan so that it will actually strengthen the economy and create permanent good paying jobs.

My hope is that the President will acknowledge that more tax relief is needed to make this stimulus package work. Even research done by some on his own economic team shows the effectiveness of broad tax relief for individuals and employers when it comes to creating jobs and supporting new economic growth. Yes, Republicans will need to accept some spending, but President Obama needs to tell Democrats in Congress that this package must be more balanced to deliver more bang for the bucks.
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Grover Norquist, President of Americans for Tax Reform:
I notice that the question today is about the "recovery" plan. As I told the Bush folks when they were demanding support for their $750 billion "recovery" plan, it is only a recovery plan if it makes the economy stronger. The "million man march" wasn't and the "stimulus" plan won't. But credit for clever spin.

For the present, Obama is waving around a massive government bureaucratic spending plan written by Reid and Pelosi with Obama's participation being that of the vermouth in a dry martini. More...
Obama has two options. If he believes that taking $800 billion or so out of the real economy through higher taxes and increased debt and directing those dollars back into the economy over the next several years as directed by such wise investors as our nation's big city political machines and venture capitalist Barney Frank, then the President should speak to the Democrat Congressmen and Senators and pass the bill without a single Republican vote.

Why share the credit and glory for the coming success?

If, however, he understands that this is wasteful spending on plans that have been repeatedly rejected by cities, states, counties and even the profligate federal government and that this will increase debt and taxes without creating a single job (oh, some jobs will move from the real economy to the political economy--just no net additional ones) then he should continue to plead for Republicans to join him so they can share in the blame.
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Peter Fenn, Democratic media consultant:
President Obama should make clear that paralysis and delay are not options. Every day that we put off acting to jump start this economy, to provide help to people in trouble, to put people back to work means we are allowing the problems to get worse.
Second, this is a first step in the recovery process, a beginning to get our country back on track. We will be constantly trying new approaches as we attack these problems. We are open to new ideas, to different solutions, we will work across party lines every single day. I will work around the clock to get this done, I will sit down with all sides. but we must move. In order to make progress, Washington must get out of ideological straightjackets, must not adopt traditional partisan politics, must pull together and work together now. This is first and foremost a jobs program to put people to work to rebuild our country, to work on projects long delayed. That means taxes paid as well as taxes cut for Americans. This is a program born out of pragmatism, not partisanship.
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Julian E. Zelizer, Professor of History and Public Affairs, Princeton:
The president should be as direct with the public as he was with Democrats in Williamsburg. He should explain what Republicans have done wrong over the last eight years, what needs to be done to revitalize this economy, and why his legislation offers the best strategy for bringing the United States into better times. Right now the name of the game is winning the argument and nothing will bring Republican votes like voters who ultimately agree with the president and not the GOP.
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Craig Shirley, Reagan biographer and president, Shirley and Banister Public Affairs:
Whatever it is, it better be a better performance than what Americans were treated to last night. Obama looked petty, partisan, angry---not at all like the candidate 52 percent of Americans voted for last November.

In Federalist 68, Alexander Hamilton warned that in the presidency "...the sense of the people should operate in the choice of the person to whom so important a trust was to be confided." George Washington's first Treasury Secretary furthur wrote that any president should act "under circumstance favorable to deliberation..." and that the president should act in behalf of all the citizenry. In other words, he should be beyond petty politics. More...
In the past two weeks, neither Obama---nor the party he leads---has attempted to deliberate with the loyal opposition or lead all the American people, so enraptured they are with their own righteousness.

Jimmy Carter's eventual downfall was his sanctimonious behavior towards the opposition party, to any who oppose him, and to the American people. President Obama would do well to study the failed presidency of the 39th President. The American people want the current economic strife solved, but not if it means forever crippling the system of free economies they know has worked so well for 200 years.
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Adam Bonin, Attorney and Chairman, Netroots Nation:
"Remember all that stuff I was saying about how change doesn't come from Washington, change has to come *to* Washington? Well, I meant it. If you want this plan to pass -- if you want America to be able to invest in new jobs, new infrastructure and an economy for the 21st Century, then you need to let your Congressman and Senator know it. They need to hear from you, because if all they're hearing from are lobbyists and Washington insiders, then they're just going to keep playing the same old inside Washington games and prevent you and your communities from getting the relief they need. They might not understand how urgent it is. You do. So call them up and tell them."
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Lanny Davis, Attorney and Democratic strategist:
I want to work with the bipartisan Centrist Senators "Gang of..." to pass a bipartisan bill focused on short-term job creation -- then later we can fund longer-term social programs.
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Fred Barbash, Moderator:
Just in: 598,000 lost jobs in December. Unemployment hits 7.6 % Highest since end of 74
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Bradley A. Blakeman, Republican strategist, consultant, entrepreneur:
The fact that President Obama chose a news conference format to sell his “recovery plan” is yet another indication that he is not ready for prime time. The “recovery plan” is going to be a hallmark of his presidency. He needs to control the presentation 100 percent. To properly set the stage and signal the importance of it, he should have asked to address a Joint Session of Congress. After all, he is trying to influence Congress AND the American Peopl

The Bills That President Obama has Signed

Candace N. - V.O.B — Fri, 06 Feb 2009 04:25:08 EST

I am so happy to see President Obama move so quickly to fulfill his promises to the American people. He signed important bills that should have been signed by former president Bush. The SCHIP bill was imporatant as well as the Ledbetter bill. President Obama is proving that he wants to build the country from the bottom up. I hope the republicans will accept president Obama's hand of bipartisanship.

Virginia Democrats

Candace N. - V.O.B — Tue, 27 Jan 2009 19:53:51 EST

I encourage my fellow Democrats living in Virginia to join the organization " Virginia Democrats" at www.vademocrats.org I joined last year and during the primary through inaugural periods I received very valuable information and links from them. By joining you help raise funds for our Virginia candidates. The website list events in Virginia along with other information important to Virginia residents. On February 7th the annual Jefferson-Jackson dinner will be held in Richmond, Virginia featuring special guest speaker President Bill Clinton. Please go to the before mentioned site to get details on how you can attend. While attending the dinner, please show your support for Governor Hopeful Terry Mcauliffe, he along with the other gubernatorial candidates will be speaking. Once again I highly recommend joining this organization if you want to keep up to speed with what's going on in Virginia.

Email I Received Today In Regard To Inauguration Access Denial Investigation

Candace N. - V.O.B — Thu, 22 Jan 2009 22:08:01 EST

Senator Feinstein Issues Statement Following Meeting with Inauguration Officials

WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.) today released the following statement after meeting with law enforcement officials to discuss the Inauguration Swearing-In Ceremony:

“Today I met with Mark Sullivan, Director of the Secret Service, Philip D. Morse, the Chief of the Capitol Police, and Terrence Gainer, Senate Sergeant at Arms, along with other law enforcement officials to discuss the 56th Presidential Inaugural Swearing-In Ceremony.
An unprecedented number of people, estimated at nearly two million, converged on the National Mall area for this ceremony, and there was not one major arrest or injury at the event, apart from various medical emergencies. All law enforcement agencies worked very hard to keep the nation’s capital safe during this historic event, and they deserve our thanks. But the purpose of the discussion today was to learn more about what led to thousands of people not being able to get into their designated ticketed areas.
It is clear that there were significant problems with managing crowds, especially in the Third Street Tunnel and the agencies involved are in the process of sorting out exactly what happened. There will be an after-action report compiled, not to cast blame, but to help us understand what mistakes were made so that we can make sure they are not repeated at future Inaugurals.”

The Southern Ball

Candace N. - V.O.B — Wed, 21 Jan 2009 20:42:42 EST

My daughter and I had a wonderful time at the Southern Ball. We had no trouble with getting there or departing. We were also fortunate that we did not have to wait in line to get in. I have read many horror stories about coats being lost at the coat check area during previous balls, but PIC had a good system in place that made coat checking easy and made it very unlikely that one's coat would get lost. The amount of guest was just right, one could move around with ease. The pastry chef gets a special nod because the desserts were great. The people at the Southern Ball, especially the ladies were so friendly. People would introduce themselves and say which state they were from and just reflect on how wonderful and historical the day was. My daughter and I were rather close to the stage when President Obama arrived but some people in front of us were tall and were blocking our view so a gentleman offered to take a couple of pictures of the president for my daughter since he was tall himself and had a good vantage point. It was an incredible night, one in which my daughter and I will always cherish. I hope we will be fortunate enough to do it again four years from now.

Time To Celebrate

Candace N. - V.O.B — Tue, 20 Jan 2009 14:43:34 EST

It is amazing looking back, all of blogs, making donations, attending and hosting events, making phone calls and canvassing,. At first it seemed like alot of work and it ws but today made the work worth it and I can't wait to do it again in four more years and I think the other dedicated supporters on this site feel the same way. I am about to pop open some champagne and get ready to celebrate at the ball. Party responsibly tonight everyone. WE DID IT !!! YES WE DID !!!

Congatulations Mr. President

Candace N. - V.O.B — Tue, 20 Jan 2009 14:23:50 EST

Congratulations Mr. President Barack Obama. How wonderful it is to be able to say that. This is a great day for our country.

Fashion For The Inauguration

Candace N. - V.O.B — Fri, 09 Jan 2009 23:58:04 EST

I can't wait to see what our soon to be first lady Mrs. Obama is going to wear for the inaugural festivities. I bet the little ones are excited about getting all "dolled" up as well. As for the president elect, he does not have too many options to go along with his tuxedo, but I am sure that he will be very dapper.

Obama agrees to modest changes in proposed tax cuts after inviting critics to show him ideas

Candace N. - V.O.B — Fri, 09 Jan 2009 23:46:36 EST

WASHINGTON (AP) -- Pushed by fellow Democrats, President-elect Barack Obama agreed to modest changes in his proposed tax cuts on Friday after inviting lawmakers to "just show me" ideas for fixing an economy shedding jobs at an alarming rate. Democratic congressional officials said that Obama aides came under pressure in closed-door talks to jettison or significantly alter a proposed tax credit for creating jobs.

Further, Democrats sought inclusion of relief for upper middle-class families hit by the alternative minimum tax. The so-called AMT was originally designed to make sure the very wealthy did not escape taxes, but it now hits many more people because of inflation, despite measures by Congress every year to prevent it from reaching tens of millions of middle-income families.

Congressional officials said aides to the president-elect had agreed to increase the $10 billion originally ticketed for energy tax breaks, although the final total remained unclear. Two officials said at least $20 billion would be reserved, but others indicated it could go higher.

Details were not available, but Obama has spoken in the past about increasing tax breaks for production of alternative energy sources such as wind power. The energy tax provisions make up a small part of a massive economic stimulus bill - expected to reach over $800 billion over two years - that congressional leaders hope to pass before mid-February.

With more than 11 million Americans out of work, Obama pressed Congress for urgent action and said the U.S. is undergoing "a devastating economic crisis that will become more difficult to contain with time." His warning was underscored by a government report showing that unemployment hit a 16-year high of 7.2 percent in December.

But congressional Democrats are making it clear they want to put their own stamp on the revival plan, despite the inevitable delays. Some Obama ideas, like a $3,000 job creation tax credit, might get scrapped.

Many Democrats aren't thrilled with Obama's business tax cut plans and are griping that there's not enough money in the measure for traditional infrastructure projects like road construction and water projects or for tax credits to promote renewable energy.

Beyond the emerging rifts - and the openness with which Democrats are pushing back against some of Obama's ideas - is the sheer enormity of crafting such a complex, controversial measure in just weeks. Lawmakers' insistence on making changes could delay the recovery plan beyond a mid-February deadline declared by House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif.

Obama, at a news conference, sought to play down the differences. "There's no disagreement that the economy is in dire straits," he said. "There's no disagreement that we need to create jobs."

Top Democrats affirmed there is far more agreement than disagreement on the major parts of the recovery plan: aid to cash-strapped state governments, $500-$1,000 tax cuts for most workers and working couples, and a huge spending package blending old fashioned public works projects with aid to the poor and unemployed and a variety of other initiatives.

Obama said he welcomed input from lawmakers in both parties.

"If members of Congress have good ideas, if they can identify a project for me that will create jobs in an efficient way that does not hamper our ability over the long term to get control of our deficit, that is good for the economy, then I'm going to accept it," the president-elect said.

"What we can't do is drag this out when we just saw a half-million jobs lost," Obama said.

"If you can show me that something is going to work, I will welcome it," he said.

A squadron of Obama officials came to the Capitol on Friday to brief House Democrats on the measure, and they again heard criticism of some of Obama's proposed tax cuts, particularly a $3,000 credit for job creation. Lawmakers pressed for more infrastructure spending and tax credits to promote renewable energy and said that more needs to be done to address the housing crisis.

"There's considerable expertise running around the halls of Congress, and this week represents the first, most significant opportunity to have good, constructive dialogue on how we build the best package," said Rep. Earl Pomeroy, D-N.D.

Obama is promising to ride herd.

"It is my job to make sure that Congress stays focused in the weeks to come and gets this done," he said.

The top Democrat in Congress is a cheerleader for the Obama plan.

"All of their priorities are ones that we share," Pelosi said. "We just want to make sure that those (ideas), when they're written in the bill, are ones that can be used immediately and can create jobs."

Sen. Barbara Boxer, D-Calif., emphasized areas of broad agreement and the universal sentiment of a need to act.

"Please don't get the idea there was some sort of breakdown here," Boxer told reporters.

The details are closely held and subject to change - and the cost of various components seems to be bouncing around daily in the push and pull between the Obama transition team and congressional leaders.

"Spend more on infrastructure. That was a recommendation made in the caucus," Rep. Pomeroy said. Financial Services Committee Chairman Barney Frank, D-Mass., said money will be added to have state and local governments buy up foreclosed homes.

Boxer said about 20 percent of the bill would provide aid to the cash-strapped states, with 40 percent, or about $300 billion for tax cuts for individuals and businesses. The remaining 40 percent would go to spending programs such as infrastructure, help for the unemployed and renewable energy.

One tax provision would provide a $500 tax cut for most workers and $1,000 for couples, at a cost of about $140 billion to $150 billion over two years. The individual tax cuts may be awarded by withholding less from worker paychecks, effectively making checks about $10 to $20 larger each week.

Obama completes national security team

Candace N. - V.O.B — Fri, 09 Jan 2009 18:07:28 EST

Promising to protect the United States while adhering to its core human values, President-elect Barack Obama formally unveiled his intelligence team Friday, praising their integrity, management skills and willingness to tell him the truth. "We must adhere to our values as diligently as we protect our safety with no exceptions," Obama said.

Obama picked retired Adm. Dennis Blair as the national intelligence director and Leon Panetta to head the CIA.

He called them "public servants with unquestioned integrity, broad experience, and strong managers with the core pragmatism that we need in dangerous times."

Obama said he has given the men the clear charge to restore the United States' record on human rights.

"I was clear throughout this campaign and was clear throughout this transition that under my administration the United States does not torture. We will abide by the Geneva Conventions. We will uphold our highest ideals," he said.

Obama said that the country learned "tough lessons" under the Bush administration, and he will demand intelligence assessments "grounded solely in the facts, and not seek information to suit any ideological agenda."

Blair, a former head of the U.S. Pacific Command, pledged to uphold the standards that Obama articulated "and that the American people have a right to expect."

Blair won high marks for countering terrorism in southeast Asia after the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks. He worked closely with foreign partners in crafting offensives that crippled the Jemaah Islamiyah terror faction in Indonesia and the Abu Sayyaf group in the Philippines.

Panetta, a former congressman, White House chief of staff and budget director with no direct intelligence experience, will have the president's "complete trust and substantial clout," Obama said.

"He has handled intelligence daily at the very highest levels, and time and again he has demonstrated sound judgment, grace under fire, and complete integrity," he said.

Panetta said he would work to assuage a Congress bruised from eight years of abrasive relations with the Bush administration and promised "to form the kind of partnership we need if we're to win the war on terror."

Obama praised the intelligence professionals working at 16 U.S. agencies even as he criticized the current administration for directing them in carrying out harsh interrogation and secret rendition policies.

"They have served in the shadows, saved American lives, advanced our interests, and earned the respect of a grateful nation," Obama said.

Obama is also tapping John Brennan to head homeland security and counterterrorism on the National Security Council. Michael Leiter will remain on as the director of the national Counterterrorism Center. And outgoing National Intelligence Director Michael McConnell will serve on Obama's Foreign Intelligence Advisory Board. Obama has also asked the CIA's current deputy, Steve Kappes, to remain at the agency.

Current CIA director Michael Hayden said in a message to employees Friday that he has been asked to remain at the agency until Panetta is confirmed by the Senate.

He said he and Kappes met with and are "deeply impressed with his candor and clear commitment to the welfare of the men and women of CIA."

McConnell said in a statement Friday he was pleased with the selection of Blair.

Blair and Panetta are both garnering substantial support on Capitol Hill, although concerns exist about each. Sen. Ron Wyden, D-Ore., told The Associated Press on Thursday that he plans to question Blair about the role he played 10 years ago in U.S. efforts to rein in the Indonesian military as it brutally cracked down on civilians in East Timor. Staff aides to other members said they would be listening closely to the answers.

Paramilitary groups sponsored by the Indonesian military with U.S. financial and political patronage slaughtered more than 200,000 East Timorese over two decades. In 1999, as civilians were being massacred, Congress and the Clinton administration cut off all military ties.

Blair, then U.S. Pacific Command chief, pushed for renewing relations with the Indonesian army, reasoning that drawing it closer would give the U.S. more leverage. Obama spokeswoman Brooke Anderson said Blair was acting in accordance with U.S. policy.

"Admiral Blair condemned the conduct of Indonesian troops in East Timor, and he conveyed that if they behaved responsibly, the U.S. was prepared to resume normal relations. If they did not, they risked further negative consequences," she said.

The East Timor and Indonesia Action Network, a human rights group, called Blair a poor choice for intelligence director this week.

Ed McWilliams, who was political officer at the U.S. Embassy in Jakarta at the time and is now with the human rights group, told the AP "the matter raises the larger question of our cooperation with militaries and intelligence agencies which abuse human rights, are unaccountable before their own justice systems and not subordinate to civilian control."

But McWilliams credited Blair for trying to lead a human rights delegation to Indonesia's province of West Papua where terrible abuses were occurring. He and his delegation were blocked by security forces.

Panetta faced resistance from the Hill earlier this week because of his lack of intelligence experience, but his prospects for an easy confirmation improved this week as key senators, including incoming Intelligence Committee Chairman Dianne Feinstein, pledged their support after discussions with Obama, Panetta and Vice President-elect Joe Biden.

Congratulations Chairman Tim Kaine

EsquireUK — Fri, 09 Jan 2009 16:47:30 EST

Friday, 9th January 2009

Washington, D.C.

President-elect Barack Obama looks on as Virginia Gov. Tim Kaine speaks at the Democratic National Committee, where Obama announced Kaine as the new DNC chairman. (Charles Dharapak/Associated Press)

www.change.gov

I received this important message from President Elect Barack Obama...

Raphael--

Yesterday, I had the honor of introducing Virginia Governor Tim Kaine as the next Chairman of the Democratic National Committee.

We're in a strong position to build the Democratic Party, renew our commitment to the principles we share, and continue the outstanding work of Chairman Howard Dean.

Among his many achievements, Governor Dean launched a strategy to reach out to Americans in all 50 states -- north, south, east and west. This 50-state strategy helped Democrats compete in states where we hadn't in years, including states like Virginia.

Governor Kaine has seen the power of the 50-state strategy firsthand, and under his leadership, Democrats will continue to organize and compete in every corner of our country.

Share your question for incoming Democratic National Committee Chairman Tim Kaine -- he'll answer as many as possible in a video on Democrats.org.

Tim is the ideal leader to grow and strengthen this party -- not by appealing to our divisions, but by appealing to our common hopes; not by pursuing policies that advance a specific dogma, but by pursuing policies that work for ordinary people.

As Governor of Virginia, Tim was known for his intelligence, integrity, and strong economic leadership.

He has a record of putting public service above partisanship, and he knows that reaching across party lines is the way to achieve progress for all Americans.

Over the next few days, you'll have a unique opportunity to get to know Governor Kaine. You can submit a question online, and he'll answer as many as possible in a special video next week.

Learn more about the future of the Democratic Party by submitting your question to Governor Kaine:

http://www.democrats.org/welcomekaine

The success of our party in the years ahead depends on strong leadership, but it also depends on a committed membership determined to bring change.

Thank you for your hard work and please join me in welcoming Chairman Tim Kaine,

Barack

By Chris Cillizza
President-elect Barack Obama formalized his appointment of Virginia Gov. Tim Kaine as the head of the Democratic National Committee today, installing a loyalist in the key political job.

"Tim and I share a philosophy," said Obama. "It is a pragmatic, progressive philosophy."

Kaine outlined three tasks he would seek to accomplish as head of the DNC: promote Obama's agenda, carry the "banner" of the party and work to expand on the civic engagement begun during Obama's campaign.

Both Obama and Kaine emphasized in their remarks a desire to find solutions to problems regardless of party affiliation -- an unusual declaration given that the Virginia governor was being named as the chief political surrogate for the incoming president. "We are the party of problem solvers and unifiers," said Kaine.

http://voices.washingtonpost.com/thefix/2009/01/obama_announces_kaine_as_dnc_c.html?wprss=thefix

www.change.gov

Be The First To Know...11 Days Until Inauguration

EsquireUK — Fri, 09 Jan 2009 00:32:58 EST

Friday, 9th January 2009

Washington, D.C.

President Elect Barack Obama delivered a major new speech at George Mason University in Fairfax, Virginia. He made the case for urgent action on an American Recovery and Reinvestment Plan to address the current economic crisis. He offered up the outlines of a plan that includes both new policy and new approaches, with the goal of saving or creating over three million jobs while investing in priorities like health care, energy, and education to jumpstart job creation and long-term growth.

www.change.gov

There is no doubt that the cost of this plan will be considerable. It will certainly add to the budget deficit in the short-term. But equally certain are the consequences of doing too little or nothing at all, for that will lead to an even greater deficit of jobs, incomes, and confidence in our economy. It is true that we cannot depend on government alone to create jobs or long-term growth, but at this particular moment, only government can provide the short-term boost necessary to lift us from a recession this deep and severe. Only government can break the vicious cycles that are crippling our economy – where a lack of spending leads to lost jobs which leads to even less spending; where an inability to lend and borrow stops growth and leads to even less credit.

That is why we need to act boldly and act now to reverse these cycles. That’s why we need to put money in the pockets of the American people, create new jobs, and invest in our future. That’s why we need to re-start the flow of credit and restore the rules of the road that will ensure a crisis like this never happens again.

That work begins with this plan – a plan I am confident will save or create at least three million jobs over the next few years. It is not just another public works program. It’s a plan that recognizes both the paradox and the promise of this moment – the fact that there are millions of Americans trying to find work, even as, all around the country, there is so much work to be done. That’s why we’ll invest in priorities like energy and education; health care and a new infrastructure that are necessary to keep us strong and competitive in the 21st century. That’s why the overwhelming majority of the jobs created will be in the private sector, while our plan will save the public sector jobs of teachers, cops, firefighters and others who provide vital services.

Some of the initiatives outlined include:

Modernizing more than 75% of federal buildings and improve the energy efficiency of two million American homes, saving consumers and taxpayers billions on our energy bills.
Making the immediate investments necessary to ensure that within five years, all of America’s medical records are computerized.
Equipping tens of thousands of schools, community colleges, and public universities with 21st century classrooms, labs, and libraries.
Expanding broadband across America, so that a small business in a rural town can connect and compete with their counterparts anywhere in the world.
Investing in the science, research, and technology that will lead to new medical breakthroughs, new discoveries, and entire new industries.

Read President-elect Obama's full remarks, as prepared for delivery . . .

Inauguration Day...20th January, 2009...Only 11 Days ...

www.change.gov

Bobby Rush

Candace N. - V.O.B — Wed, 07 Jan 2009 17:45:29 EST

I was listening to Bobby Rush on Hardball tonight and recalling things he said on other shows and his ignorance is so annoying. Just as I thought someone comes out trying to play the race card. I talked about people playing the race, gender and sexual orientation cards in my Warren blog, and as I said then when a group of people cry about every little thing, when something serious happens no one wants to get behind them because people figure "here they go crying again". Before Blagojevich picked Burris the Dems said that they would not seat the person. If the pick would have been white the same thing would have happened. Being multiracial, sure I want to see more blacks in the Senate but you can't go about change trying to guilt or accuse your way into a position.

Surgeon General

Candace N. - V.O.B — Tue, 06 Jan 2009 18:39:34 EST

CNN just reported that Dr. Sanjay Gupta has been tapped to be the next surgeon general. There is no clear word whether he will accept or not but I don"t see him refusing.

Impeachment panel weighing charges against Blagojevich may finish before getting FBI tapes

Candace N. - V.O.B — Mon, 05 Jan 2009 21:35:04 EST

CHICAGO (AP) -- State legislators weighing evidence against Gov. Rod Blagojevich may finish their work before getting any tapes of the governor's conversations that were made secretly by the FBI, attorneys indicated Monday.

The House impeachment panel is racing to complete its job, possibly by the end of this week. But the efforts of federal prosecutors to give the panel some of the FBI tapes face a potential obstacle course in court that could take up several weeks.

"These tapes are relevant evidence; we'd like to have them," said David Ellis, a lawyer for the impeachment panel. But he said the panel could wrap up its work as early as this week, and "we have already gathered a large volume of evidence."

Blagojevich, 52, a two-term Democrat, is charged along with former Chief of Staff John Harris with a scheme to sell or trade the U.S. Senate seat left vacant by Barack Obama's election as president.

Blagojevich is also charged with illegally plotting to use his power as governor to squeeze roadbuilders, a harness racing executive and the head of a children's hospital, among others, for hefty campaign contributions.

Prosecutors propose to provide the impeachment panel with a few minutes of the extensive recordings the FBI made of the governor talking with aides and others.

As skirmishing got under way Monday, Blagojevich's chief defense counsel, Edward M. Genson, said he wanted all of the tapes released to the panel, not just the four brief ones that prosecutors offered.

"We are not going to ask that one tape, or two tapes, or three tapes or four tapes, be offered," Genson told Chief U.S. District Judge James F. Holderman. "We are going to ask that all of them be offered."

Such a proposal could force a time-consuming fight that in turn could delay the delivery of any of the tapes to the impeachment committee.

Genson declined to comment on his strategy after court. A spokesman for the government, Randall Samborn, also declined to comment on the direction of the case.

Other potential delays cropped up. At one point, Holderman suggested that attorneys tell the court by Jan. 20, long after the committee hopes to have its work done, whether they would approve releasing the tapes.

Holderman discarded that idea and set a fresh hearing for Thursday.

Members of the impeachment panel appeared unfazed by the possibility that any release of the tapes could come too late for them.

Rep. Frank Mautino, a Democrat from Spring Valley, said that if the tapes come too late they could always go to the Illinois Senate, which would take up impeachment if the House approves it.

"I don't think the committee should wait," said minority spokesman Jim Durkin, a Westchester Republican. The panel had "amassed a significant amount of information to make an informed decision," he said.

After the court hearing, attorney Daniel S. Reinberg said he believed his client, John Johnston, head of two Chicago-area harness racing tracks, was the person named in an FBI affidavit attached to the complaint as Contributor 1.

One of the tapes contains a conversation between Johnston and a lobbyist for the tracks, Lon Monk, a former top Blagojevich aide, Reinberg said. He said Monk is the person identified in the affidavit as Lobbyist 1.

The affidavit quotes Blagojevich and Lobbyist 1 as pressuring Contributor 1 for a campaign contribution at a time when key race track legislation was on his desk.

Attorney John P. Collins, who attended the hearing, declined to say whether he represented Monk or someone else. Reinberg said prosecutors told Johnston he is neither the subject nor a target of the federal investigation.

Meanwhile, Lt. Gov. Pat Quinn said that he would set up a special committee to determine how to rid state government of the endemic corruption that has plagued it for years.

The committee will be headed by attorney Patrick M. Collins, who as a former federal prosecutor sent former Gov. George Ryan to prison for racketeering.

As he spoke, former state Attorney General Roland Burris set off for Washington to claim the Senate seat that formerly belonged to Obama - even though top Democratic leaders in the Senate say they don't want to seat anyone appointed by Blagojevich.

Blagojevich named Burris to the seat last week.

"I am the junior senator, according to every law book in the nation," Burris said. He said he was "hoping and praying that I will be seated."

Blagojevich also picked March 3 for a special primary to fill the U.S. House seat left vacant by Rep. Rahm Emanuel's appointment as Obama's chief of staff. He set April 7 for the special election - the same day prosecutors face a deadline for obtaining an indictment of Blagojevich

Foundation won't disclose Bush library donors

Candace N. - V.O.B — Mon, 05 Jan 2009 21:05:07 EST

Wow what a surprise, NOT !!

DALLAS (AP) -- Donors to President George W. Bush's presidential library probably will remain a mystery, said the foundation overseeing fundraising.

Mark Langdale, who heads the George W. Bush Presidential Library Foundation, said that's the way some donors want it.

"It's our decision not to disclose who the donors are," he said.

The foundation will oversee construction of the library, museum and public policy institute at the Southern Methodist University campus in Dallas. The group had raised less than $3 million when the latest tax reports were filed in August. That's far short of its $300 million goal, but foundation officials said fundraising will pick up significantly after Bush leaves office Jan. 20.

The issue of whether to identify presidential library contributors was reignited recently when President-elect Barack Obama tapped Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton to serve as secretary of state.

The foundation that oversees her husband's library, the William J. Clinton Presidential Library and Museum in Little Rock, Ark., had not previously released donors' names - no law requires disclosure of who donates to presidential library foundations.

But last month, the Clinton foundation published donors' names as part of Bill Clinton's effort to avoid conflicts of interest regarding his wife's new post. The list showed that governments from Saudi Arabia to Norway made sizable contributions, as well as corporations and billionaires with interests in U.S. foreign policy.

Bush officials have said the president would not accept foreign donations while in office. Both Clinton and Bush's father had the same policy but accepted large gifts from foreigners after leaving the White House.

Noting that the Clinton list was released as part of an agreement to help Hillary Clinton join the Obama Cabinet, Langdale said, "We don't have those set of circumstances," The Dallas Morning News reported in Monday's editions.

The Bush foundation does, however, have to contend with a recession and the president's low ratings in public opinion polls.

"Clearly, we're in tough economic headwinds, so it's going to be a harder climb than it would have been a year ago," Langdale said.

But he said the foundation expects to meet its fundraising goal by autumn of 2010, the planned groundbreaking date.

Former DNC chief announces Va. gov run

Candace N. - V.O.B — Sun, 04 Jan 2009 00:16:45 EST

RICHMOND, Va. (AP) -- Former Democratic National Committee chairman Terry McAuliffe said on Saturday he intends to run for governor of Virginia.

After months of speculation over his plans, McAuliffe announced his intentions in a video posted on his Web site. In the video, McAuliffe said he will make his intention to run official on Wednesday as part of a week-long campaign kickoff.

The stops include town hall meetings in Hampton Roads, Bristol, Richmond and others, where McAuliffe will unveil plans for job creation, education and renewable energy.

"Over the coming months we will travel to every corner of the commonwealth to ask all Virginians to join our campaign to get the economy moving again," McAuliffe said in the video.

In November, the 51-year-old established his campaign committee, Friends of Terry McAuliffe, with the State Board of Elections, secured the services of strategist Mike Henry and began touring Virginia, but had not made his candidacy certain.

McAuliffe faces two other Democrats who have been active for nearly a year in an already contentious nomination fight to succeed Democratic Gov. Timothy M. Kaine.

State Sen. Creigh Deeds narrowly lost the attorney general's race in 2005, and former House Democratic Caucus chairman Brian Moran is also in the race.

"We welcome Terry McAuliffe to the race and we're looking forward to an open and honest discussion of how we keep Virginia moving forward," said Peter Jackson, a spokesman for Deeds.

In a statement, Moran also welcomed McAuliffe to the campaign.

"I am more convinced than ever that Virginians want a governor with a proven record of fighting for Virginia families and a vision for the commonwealth," Moran said.

The Democratic nominee will face Republican Attorney General Bob McDonnell, who is unchallenged for his party's nomination, in the Nov. 3 election.

Phil Cox, a spokesman for McDonnell also welcomed McAuliffe into the race, saying he has a "tough primary fight ahead of him." But Cox said there will be plenty of time during the campaign to compare and contrast records.

A native of upstate New York, McAuliffe has lived in Virginia for about 17 years. He lives in the Washington, D.C., suburb of McLean.

McAuliffe brings to the race a national fundraising base and profile that neither of his potential primary rivals could match. As chairman of New York Sen. Hillary Clinton's presidential campaign, McAuliffe helped her raise tens of millions of dollars. And as DNC chairman, he helped restore the fiscal health of a party that was broke and dispirited after Al Gore's wrenching 2000 presidential loss.

But McAuliffe also brings a political portfolio well to the left of Democrats Mark R. Warner and Kaine, who toiled in the state party for years before they were elected governor by pledging bipartisan cooperation and campaigning as moderates.

McAuliffe, however, does ride a crest of success the Democratic Party has not known in Virginia for generations.

President-elect Barack Obama became the first Democrat to carry Virginia in a presidential race in 44 years. The party claimed both of the state's U.S. Senate seats for the first time since 1970, and it controls six of the state's 11 U.S. House seats in the wake of newcomer Tom Perriello's victory over Republican Rep. Virgil Goode after a recount.

Only two states - Virginia and New Jersey - elect governors this year.

Obama Will Host Commander-in-Chief’s Ball

EsquireUK — Fri, 02 Jan 2009 16:34:53 EST

President-elect Obama will host a Commander-in-Chief’s Ball on the night of January 20th in honor of our country’s brave men and women in uniform. Those invited will include wounded warriors (Purple Heart recipients), families of fallen heroes, and spouses of deployed military.

www.change.gov

"It is a privilege to honor our men and women in uniform during our inaugural festivities by continuing the tradition of the Commander-in-Chief’s Ball. Our troops represent the best America has to offer, and without their dedication and sacrifice we would not be able to enjoy the freedoms that we are coming together to celebrate on January 20th. They deserve our thanks and our gratitude. Michelle and I look forward to attending the Commander-in-Chief’s Ball and sharing this special evening with representatives of our armed forces." - President-Elect Barack Obama

Education and HealthCare you can help

DOUMBIA'S FAMILY — Thu, 01 Jan 2009 18:41:26 EST

Dear Friends,In July 2004, I founded the Sibiry Doumbia Memorial Health Center for the village of Koungodian in Mali, West Africa in honor of his father who died in 2004 at the age of 90. The senior Doumbia died of complications from a broken hip. Medicines were purchased in Bamako, yet it was five days before a medical technician could visit the village to administer the medication. Mr. Doumbia died prior to the doctor’s arrival. With the belief that all men, women and children should have ready access to medical care in their community, the Center was born.ServicesThe Sibiry Doumbia Community Memorial Health Center provides comprehensive medical care for adults and children in a wide range of services. Specialties include. Fetal therapy begins with a comprehensive patient assessment that includes diagnostic testing for fetal, prenatal counseling support services as well as highly specialized services for women and children. We are also aware of the communities needs and are working hard to provide the best services.(a) Health of the reproduction and fight against the sexually transmitted diseases and the AIDS
(b) Information, education and Communication as regards to health of hygiene and nutrition (c) To ensure a permanent relation with the families and the children.Incorporating the latest in technology with a dedication to compassionate, family-centered care, the Memorial Center has established a prestigious reputation throughout Arrondissement de Baguineda. In addition to providing a Birth Center, Intensive Care Unit and soon hope to provide Transport Services. Dedicated to the health and safety of the communities, the Center reaches out to the public through a variety of preventive health classes, screenings and wellness activities. I therefore hope this conference call can help me network with other in order to find help on some specific areas. Solar system to provide sustainable source of lightning of the center also to the school I part funded to build. Be able to continue providing net to protect against malaria.

The Ridiculous Protest Against Rick Warren

Candace N. - V.O.B — Thu, 18 Dec 2008 23:31:34 EST

First let me say that I don't care about anyone's sexual orientation. From my experiences, studies and personal opinion, I believe people are born gay. Anyway it is crazy that Barack's choice for pastor is an issue. People always have to make an issue where there is none. If the pastor was a person that is guilty of gay bashing then I could see the protest, but he just believes marriage should be between a man and a woman and that is his right just as it is everyone's right to their own sexual preference. So if you don't want people to criticize you for being gay don't criticize people for not sharing your beliefs (you can't have it both ways). And further more if you are so secure with your sexuality why does one man's opinion bother you? If one man can get under your skin for so little, then you are in need of therapy. When a group of people be it ethnic, pertaining to sexual orientation or others complain about every little thing, the population loses interests in their cause and when a real issue arises these groups don't get support because people feel "here they go crying again". So please in the future choose your battles more carefully because Barack's pastor choice for his inauguration is really a dumb thing to be complaining about. We are fighting a war, we have alot of homeless and hungry people, disease, our economy is in the toilet and we have a million other things to worry about and yet you are flipping out about pastor Warren? Come on give me a break !!!

Officials: Obama selects Vilsack for ag post

Candace N. - V.O.B — Tue, 16 Dec 2008 19:27:22 EST

DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) -- President-elect Barack Obama has selected former Iowa Gov. Tom Vilsack to become his agriculture secretary, according to Democratic officials familiar with the selection process.

Obama will announce the nomination of Vilsack on Wednesday, the officials said. They spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to discuss the selection before the announcement. Obama also plans to announce his nomination of Colorado Sen. Ken Salazar as interior secretary at the same news conference, other Democratic officials said.

Vilsack will be the fourth former opponent of Obama in the campaign for the 2008 Democratic presidential nomination to join his new administration. Others include Vice President-elect Joe Biden, Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton, who has been tapped for secretary of state, and New Mexico Gov. Bill Richardson, selected to head the Commerce Department.

Vilsack announced his presidential candidacy in late 2006, positioning himself as a Washington outsider with heartland appeal, but he dropped out before the primaries because of an inability to raise money. He endorsed Clinton and campaigned actively for her in the long primary campaign against Obama. After Obama defeated Clinton, Vilsack endorsed him.

First elected governor in 1998, Vilsack, 58, carved out a reputation as a political centrist. He balanced Iowa's budget and resisted raising taxes, but he was willing to spend money on such priorities as education and health. He argued that pushing alternative energy sources was key to bolstering rural sections of the nation that are struggling economically and with vanishing populations.

Salazar will head a department that oversees oil and gas drilling on public lands and manages the nation's parks and wildlife refuges. Salazar is expected to try to balance the protection of natural resources while tapping the nation's energy potential - an approach Obama has said he wants.

Salazar co-sponsored a bill in Congress to create a new land conservation system under the Interior Department's Bureau of Land Management for permanently protecting 26 million acres of national monuments, wilderness areas and wild and scenic rivers. The legislation died during the lame-duck session of Congress after the November election.

The Colorado senator opposed drilling in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge and objected to the Bush administration's efforts to lease Western lands for oil shale development. It will be up to the Obama administration whether to go ahead with leasing.

If Salazar is confirmed as interior secretary, Colorado Gov. Bill Ritter, a Democrat, will select a replacement to fill the last two years of his Senate term. Before being elected to the Senate in 2004, Salazar was Colorado's attorney general. He also headed Colorado's Natural Resources Department from 1990 through 1994.

President Elect Obama's Cabinet Picks

Candace N. - V.O.B — Tue, 16 Dec 2008 19:09:52 EST

Some liberals are not to thrilled with President elect Obama's cabinet picks. I think he has made sound, diverse choices. Some previous administrations (especially the last one) were full of "yes" people that did not challenge the president. Barack has surrounded himself with people that will challenge him and give him a broad variety of ideas. Some say that a group of people with strong personalities will pose a problem for Barack, but I think he will listen to everyone and know exactly when and how to reign everyone in. He will take all ideas into consideration but when the final decision is made he will let everyone know that he is president and has the last word. I think a good cabinet should have liberals, moderates and conservatives. A good show that one is going to be bipartisan is by having a diverse group of people around.

Thank You

Candace N. - V.O.B — Thu, 11 Dec 2008 21:51:41 EST

Thank you for all of the positive email replies and promises to donate to Toys For Tots. As always Obama bloggers show how generous and kind hearted they are. God Bless.

Please Donate To Toys For Tots

Candace N. - V.O.B — Thu, 11 Dec 2008 15:13:48 EST

This is not a political blog, but it is just as important. I just saw a report on CNN that showed toys for tots warehouses across the country empty. Due to the economy they have not received their usual donations, therefore several states do not have enough toys to fill request for children in need. No child should have to go without a toy on Christmas. This organization is dear to my heart because several years ago due to a domestic situation I did not have money for Christmas gifts for my 3 children. My kids were able to benefit from toys for tots and received toys that year. The particular distribution area that we went to allowed the children to pick their own toys. My kids eyes lit up when they walked into that room filled with toys and were able to pick whatever they wanted and it took the sadness out of my heart because I no longer had to feel bad because I could not provide toys for my kids. Please go to toysfortots.org to find out where to drop off your donations. If you would rather donate cash, they have an online form for that. As soon as I saw the report on CNN I called my mother and she is going to donate extra toys that she purchased for her grandchildren and I am going to take my kids to the store and have each one pick a toy to give back to other children what they were fortunate enough to receive so long ago. I know with our economy in peril money is tight, but anyone who is capable of giving, please give to this worthy cause.

I Guessed Right

Candace N. - V.O.B — Wed, 10 Dec 2008 22:13:35 EST

I was going to blog yesterday about who I thought #5 was in the Chicago scandal. I knew it was Jackson but I was hoping it was not. I pray he does not turn out to be involved in the scandal in a crooked manner.

Name by name, Obama's Cabinet taking shape

Candace N. - V.O.B — Thu, 04 Dec 2008 16:20:24 EST

Day by day, name by name, President-elect Barack Obama's Cabinet is taking shape, and other top jobs are being filled.

A look at who has made the list and who is being talked about for jobs that are still open:

NOMINATIONS ANNOUNCED:

TREASURY SECRETARY: Timothy Geithner, president of Federal Reserve Bank of New York.

SECRETARY OF STATE: Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton, D-N.Y.

ATTORNEY GENERAL: Eric Holder, former deputy attorney general.

DEFENSE SECRETARY: Robert Gates, a holdover from Bush administration.

HOMELAND SECURITY SECRETARY: Gov. Janet Napolitano, D-Ariz.

NATIONAL SECURITY ADVISER: Retired Marine Gen. James Jones.

COMMERCE SECRETARY: Gov. Bill Richardson, D-N.M.

NATIONAL ECONOMIC COUNCIL DIRECTOR: Lawrence Summers, former treasury secretary.

OFFICE OF MANAGEMENT AND BUDGET DIRECTOR: Peter Orszag, director of Congressional Budget Office.

---

POSTS TO BE DECIDED, WITH THE CONTENDERS:

HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES SECRETARY

Former Senate Majority Leader Tom Daschle, D-S.D.

CIA DIRECTOR

John Gannon, former deputy director for intelligence at the CIA during the Clinton administration

Jami Miscik, former head of CIA's analytical operations

Steve Kappes, CIA's current No. 2

Rep. Jane Harman, D-Calif., heads the House Homeland Security subcommittee on intelligence.

John McLaughlin, former interim CIA chief

NATIONAL INTELLIGENCE DIRECTOR

Denny Blair, retired admiral and former commander of the U.S. Pacific Command.

Don Kerr, No. 2 official in Office of the Director of National Intelligence.

Jami Miscik, former head of CIA's analytical operations.

Former Rep. Tim Roemer, D-Ind.

ENERGY SECRETARY

Dan Reicher, director of climate change and energy initiatives at Google, former assistant energy secretary in charge of efficiency and renewable energy programs in the Clinton administration.

Former Rep. Philip Sharp, D-Ind., now president of Resources for the Future think tank.

Gov. Kathleen Sebelius, D-Kan.

Gov. Jennifer Granholm, D-Mich.

John Bryson, retired chairman of Edison International, parent company of Southern California Edison. Co-chair of the Electric Drive Transportation Association, a leading advocate for plug-in hybrid vehicles.

INTERIOR SECRETARY

Rep. Raul M. Grijalva, D-Ariz.

Rep. Jay Inslee, D-Wash.

Rep. Mike Thompson, D-Calif.

Former Gov. Gary Locke, D-Wash.

John Berry, director of the National Zoo, former executive director of the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation.

EPA ADMINISTRATOR

Lisa P. Jackson, former commissioner of New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection.

Mary Nichols, head of California Air Resources Board.

HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT SECRETARY

Miami Mayor Manny Diaz.

Mayor Shirley Franklin of Atlanta.

Renee Glover, head of Atlanta's housing authority.

Nicolas Retsinas, director of Harvard's Joint Center for Housing Studies.

Bart Harvey, former chief executive of Enterprise Community Investment

U.S. TRADE REPRESENTATIVE

Rep. Xavier Beccera, D-Calif.

Former Gov. Gary Locke, D-Wash.

LABOR SECRETARY

Ed McElroy, former president of the American Federation of Teachers.

Linda Chavez-Thompson, former AFL-CIO vice president.

Mary Beth Maxwell, executive director American Rights at Work

Former Rep. David Bonior, D-Mich., member of Obama's transition economic advisory board.

Maria Echaveste, former Clinton White House adviser.

Gov. Kathleen Sebelius, D-Kan.

EDUCATION SECRETARY

Former Gov. Roy Barnes, D-Ga.

Arne Duncan, chief executive officer of Chicago public schools.

Linda Darling-Hammond, education professor at Stanford University.

Virginia Gov. Tim Kaine.

Gov. Kathleen Sebelius, D-Kan.

TRANSPORTATION SECRETARY

Jane Garvey, former head of the Federal Aviation Administration.

Mortimer Downey, former deputy transportation secretary.

Steve Heminger, executive director, San Francisco Bay area transportation commission.

AGRICULTURE SECRETARY

Dennis Wolff, Pennsylvania Secretary of Agriculture.

Tom Buis, president of National Farmers Union.

Former Rep. Charles Stenholm, D-Texas.

Rep. John Salazar, D-Colo.

Rep. Stephanie Herseth Sandlin, D-S.D.

Former Rep. Jill Long Thompson, D-Ind.

VETERANS AFFAIRS

Tammy Duckworth, a disabled Iraq war veteran and director of Illinois Department of Veterans Affairs.

Lt. Gov. Anthony Brown, D-Md.

Former Sen. Max Cleland. D-Ga.

Fla. rep. 'flabbergasted' Obama call wasn't prank

Candace N. - V.O.B — Thu, 04 Dec 2008 16:17:00 EST

MIAMI (AP) -- First she hung up on President-elect Barack Obama - twice. Now Republican Rep. Ileana Ros-Lehtinen is fielding calls from angry constituents who think she did it on purpose.

The Miami congresswoman says she and the Democrat had a good laugh Wednesday after she apologized profusely for assuming his calls were a prank.

"I was just flabbergasted," Ros-Lehtinen said Thursday. "I just hung up on the most powerful man on earth - twice."

She said Obama called to congratulate her on her re-election, saying he was looking forward to working with her as the ranking Republican member of the House Foreign Affairs committee.

But she assumed it was a radio station prank. Typically, when high-ranking officials call, an aide calls in advance to verify. That was the procedure recently when Ros-Lehtinen received a call from Sen. Hillary Clinton.

"But this one was just out of the blue he's calling me. And I said, 'Boy, you're a much better impersonator than that guy on Saturday Night Live,' and he's laughing and he's thinking I'm kidding," she said.

Obama tried convincing her that he truly was the president-elect, but Ros-Lehtinen says she "wished him the best of luck and told him I was going to hang up on him."

A few minutes later, Rahm Emanuel, Obama's chief of staff, called the congresswoman with Obama on the line to tell her it wasn't a joke.

"I said I really do appreciate it. I love these pranks more than anybody and I'm honored that you would prank me, but I'm gonna hang up."

And she did.

It took a call from Rep. Howard Berman, chairman of the Foreign Affairs Committee, to persuade Ros-Lehtinen that Obama really did want to talk to her. She asked Berman to tell her an inside joke about a colleague that only they would know to make sure the phone call was legitimate.

When Obama finally called back, the congresswoman said they talked about policies on Cuba and Israel.

He told her "anytime my ego gets too pumped up, I think Michelle will remind me that you hung up not once, but twice on me," Ros-Lehtinen said.

Obama's office has not commented on the mix-up.

One Last Thought About Palin

Candace N. - V.O.B — Thu, 04 Dec 2008 16:04:30 EST

Many people in the news media say Palin will be the next republican star, I beg to differ. The smart republicans like Jindal, Crist and Romney are not going to support Palin again. They did not want to support her the first time and only did so out of party loyalty. This time around the republicans are going to have to nominate people with fresh ideas that have intelligence and Palin does not possess either. Also the next time a women is nominated for a high ranking office, I hope she does not follow the lead of the last two women that were in the public eye (no names need to be mention). The sexism cry has to be stopped. If the woman can't handle the heat then don't go near the flame. The women and their supporters cried sexism about any comment that was made. Look at what Barack got, he did not cry about the gutter attacks against him. He did not cry about race or play any other cards. He took it and responded when necessary. When women use their gender to avoid heat, it sets all women back. Sure Palin got a lot of heat but that was not because of her gender, she got heat because she is an idiot.

Inquiry Set on Mormon Aid for California Marriage Vote

Irish Musician for Progressive Solutions — Wed, 26 Nov 2008 16:04:32 EST

SAN FRANCISCO — California officials will investigate accusations that the Mormon Church neglected to report a battery of nonmonetary contributions — including phone banks, a Web site and commercials — on behalf of a ballot measure to ban same-sex marriage.

http://www.nytimes.com/2008/11/26/us/politics/26marriage.html?_r=1&nl=pol&emc=pola1&oref=slogin

Send a Card to a Soldier for the Holidays

Irish Musician for Progressive Solutions — Wed, 26 Nov 2008 14:22:20 EST

Here’s a great idea to spread the holiday spirit! When doing your Holiday/Christmas cards this year, take one card and send it to the following address.

A Recovering American Soldier

c/o Walter Reed Army Medical Center

6900 Georgia Avenue, NW

Washington, D.C. 20307-5001

If we pass this on and everyone sends one card, think of how many cards these wonderful, special people who have sacrificed so much would get.

Happy Thanksgiving and Note to the Conscience!

Irish Musician for Progressive Solutions — Wed, 26 Nov 2008 14:16:07 EST

Don't Buy Anything Day
By Lew Scannon
Grand Rapids, Michigan

Long ago, when Christian priests were to trying convert the Pagans, they converted the Pagan holidays into Christian ones. One such was the celebration of the winter solstice, which was converted into a holiday celebrating the birth of Christ. Now the High Priests of money have successfully done the same thing with this Christian holiday, converting a day celebrating the birth of Christ into a celebration of materialism and greed.

Sarah Palin, Giuliani to Campaign for Sen. Chambliss in Ga. Runoff

Irish Musician for Progressive Solutions — Tue, 25 Nov 2008 17:48:54 EST

Former GOP vice-presidential candidate Sarah Palin will make four campaign stops in Georgia just one day before the state’s voters head to the polls in a runoff election that could determine whether Democrats win unfettered control of Congress.

The campaign of GOP Sen. Saxby Chambliss announced Tuesday morning that Alaska Gov. Palin and Chambliss will hit the campaign trail together on Dec. 1.

“I was thrilled when I got the call that Governor Palin would be able to make the trip to Georgia to campaign with me the day before the runoff election,” Sen. Chambliss stated in a news release. “Julianne and I are honored that she would take the time to travel to Georgia to tell everyone how important this election is, and I know that she will receive an enthusiastic welcome everywhere we go.”

The campaign tells Newsmax that Palin and Chambliss will embark on a clockwise tour through the heart of central Georgia, beginning at 8:30 a.m. in Augusta, with later campaign stops that in Savannah, Perry (near Macon) and concluding with a rally scheduled for 4 p.m. in north Atlanta. Chambliss is hoping a last-minute boost from Palin will build the momentum he needs to win the runoff.

The Hillary Possibility

Candace N. - V.O.B — Fri, 14 Nov 2008 21:24:19 EST

I don't know how I feel about Hillary as Secretary of State. I know I certainly did not want her as VP after her primary antics, but I am just unsure about this possible appointment. There is no doubt she can do the job. There is something about Kerry that does not have me convinced that he would be a wise choice, he put Obama into the spotlight but when it comes to such an important position, even if Obama thinks he owes Kerry something, that is not a position that should be used as a reward. Richardson should certaily have some kind of appointment, but I have to admit I think Hillary would do a better job. What do you think?

Urgent: Support for Jim Martin's Senate Race is Needed

Irish Musician for Progressive Solutions — Wed, 12 Nov 2008 19:58:43 EST

Please remember to help support Jim Martin in Georgia for this very important Senate seat. Not only is Jim Martin the best man for the job, his election to the Senate will help the President-elect, Barack Obama, to enact the positive, pragmatic change that America needs at this crucial time. Please help me in contributing to Jim Martin's campaign by spreading the word and by making whatever modest donation you can to his fundraising effort.

http://www.martinforsenate.com/home.html

Thank you,

Julia of Irish Musicians for Obama

Did anyone else lose blogs ?

Candace N. - V.O.B — Tue, 11 Nov 2008 00:15:03 EST

I have posted 2005 blogs. It was indicated on my page the other day. Today it says 1,100. I am too tired to count but I hope 900 + have not been deleted.

Thanks JFK Fan & Other Well Wishers

Candace N. - V.O.B — Mon, 10 Nov 2008 23:37:34 EST

I want to thank JFK Fan for posting a get well blog for me. I had throat surgery and was in lots of pain. I was feeling in the dumps because I missed out on election activities the final week. I thought the get well blog was a very sweet thing to do and the well wishes from this wonderful Obama family of bloggers that posted well wishes to the blog really lifted my spirits. Thank you so very much. The people on this site are the best. I am still on cloud nine because all our hard work paid off. We are part of history and our great country will have the leader that it needs on January 20th 2009 :-)

Support is Needed for Begich, Martin, and Franken in Final Senate Seat Push!

Irish Musician for Progressive Solutions — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 15:15:02 EST

Dear Obama supporters and fellow Democrats:

While we bask in the glow from this beautiful win for President-elect Obama and for our political party as a whole, I wanted to remind you to keep an eye on three Senate races that are in need of our collective positive energy, if not our monetary contributions. The following three Democratic hopefuls could use a quick note of encouragement on their blogsites or a small contribution of money to boost enthusiasm. As we all know, a little bit of collective energy goes a long way in 2008!!

Thanks for your continued support!

-Mark Begich, running against convicted felon Ted Stevens in Alaska:

"This race is far from over!"

http://www.begich.com/home

-Al Franken, running in a tight race in Minnesota that is "too close to call:"

http://www.alfranken.com/

-Jim Martin, "headed to a runoff" against good ol' boy Saxby Chambliss in Georgia:

http://www.martinforsenate.com/

Congratulations President Elect Barack Obama

Candace N. - V.O.B — Wed, 05 Nov 2008 17:15:36 EST

Congrats to President elect Barack Obama, it has been a long journey. An overwhelming amount of people have blogged, canvassed, phoned banked, fundraised and volunteered in other ways tirelessly for almost two years for this campaign. Supporters can truly feel like it is their campaign. Barack assembled an incredible campaign staff that in turn made it possible for ordinary citizens to participate in the process on a level that they wanted to. President Elect Obama has made history, not only for being the first African American president but for also being a beacon of light that this country needs to restore our standing in the world. I am very proud of Barack's accomplishments and I am proud that our country has come so far in regard to race relations. I wish President elect Barack Obama and his family all of life's best and I know that he will be an incredible president.

I Knew Barack Would Win Virginia

Candace N. - V.O.B — Wed, 05 Nov 2008 16:56:08 EST

I had surgery so my mother had to drive me to my polling place to vote. I was not going to miss voting even if I had to crawl to get there. I don't understand why anyone would not vote unless there was a true emergency keeping them from dong so. Anyway, after we voted we went to some of the places that were giving free food to people that voted. Electricity was in the air, I listened to what people were saying to my mother (I had throat surgery so I could not talk). And everyone was excited about Obama. I never saw so many people so excited after voting. It was like one big Obama party along Richmond Highway. People were taking cell phone pictures with other supporters that they just met in line, some traded stories about their volunteer experiences and others were just overjoyed knowing that in a few hours our country was going to make history and that the change that we need was finally coming.

OK, we won, now what?

ChrisJ in Mantua — Wed, 05 Nov 2008 16:55:59 EST

One of the questions making the rounds today is “Obama won…now what?” Quite simply the economy is in shambles and likely to get worse before it gets better. Moreover, much of the agenda outlined by the new President-Elect during the campaign will have to be tabled for at least a little while. Obama even admitted as much himself, and not just in the past few days either. He said so as early as mid-September, when he was interviewed by 60 Minutes.

Congratulations EVERYONE!

Henry M — Wed, 05 Nov 2008 10:59:57 EST

The country is the winner in this election. We have so much to look forward to, but on a personal note, permit me to look back again for a moment.

I was gratified that Virginia went for Barack after the long, hard work of so many VA, MD, and DC volunteers. We did it! (with a little help from Barack's Election Eve Rally :-)

Sorry, WV. We tried.

Henry M

What Now?

Glenn from Haymarket — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 23:39:40 EST

How do we move forward? How do we take advantage of this? How does this Vast and diverse community take advantage of itself? How do we move this movement of ideas to help Obama accomplish our goals? That is the question. Do we let this vast network just fade away? I say no. It is time to take the next step. Who is with me?

Virginia goes to Obama, District of Columbia

Irish Musician for Progressive Solutions — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 23:03:28 EST

The Associated Press reports that the state's 13 electoral votes go to Democrat Barack Obama. Virginia has not voted Democratic since Lyndon Johnson in 1964.

For Obama, AP has called the District of Columbia and Iowa.

Obama Wins Iowa

Irish Musician for Progressive Solutions — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 22:07:25 EST

WASHINGTON (AP) - Barack Obama built a formidable lead in his bid to become the first black president Tuesday night, pushing ahead of John McCain in a nation clamoring for change.

Obama had earlier followed up his big win in Ohio with his second red state victory in New Mexico, reported MSNBC, earning 5 more electoral votes. Every candidate who has taken Ohio since Abraham Lincoln has won the election and no Republican has ever won the presidency without the state.

Obama wins New York, Michigan and Minnesota.

Irish Musician for Progressive Solutions — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 21:10:41 EST

An avalanche of states closed their polls at both 8 and 9 o'clock (EST), pushing the number of electoral votes in play well past the 270 need to win. But neither candidate has managed to steal a state from the other.

The latest round of closures were in Arizona, Colorado, Kansas, Louisiana, Michigan, Minnesota, Nebraska, New Mexico, New York, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Texas, Wisconsin and Wyoming bringing their balloting to an end. Those states are worth 159 electoral votes.

Kansas, North Dakota and Wyoming went to John McCain, reports MSNBC, while Barack Obama picked up Michigan, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Rhode Island and New York. Barack Obama currently leading McCain by 175 to 70 in electoral votes.

McCain's victory in North Dakota was the first toss-up of the night to be declared.

The next round of closures comes at 10, with Iowa, Montana, Nevada and Utah shutting it down.

Obama Sweeping Northeast

Irish Musician for Progressive Solutions — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 20:47:45 EST

As the 8 o'clock hour (EST) rolled around, a number of states closed their polls and winners were declared in several more.

Massachusetts, Maryland, New Hampshire, Maine, Delaware and D.C. were all called for Barack Obama by MSNBC, just minutes after the senator from Illinois was awarded Pennsylvania and New Jersey. John McCain just picked up Tennessee. Obama now leads John McCain 103 - 34 in the Electoral College, with 270 votes needed for victory.

Despite the early lead for Obama, this thing is far from over, as McCain has yet to to lose any of the states Bush won in 2004.

Georgia, Indiana, Kentucky, Virginia, North Carolina, Ohio, West Virginia, Alabama, Mississippi, Missouri, Oklahoma and Florida all remain in play with 147 electoral votes at stake.

Arkansas had the spotlight to itself at 8:30, when it alone closed its polling. It's at 9 o'clock, however, when things will start to get interesting, with Arizona, Colorado, Kansas, Louisiana, Michigan, Minnesota, Nebraska, New Mexico, New York, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Texas, Wisconsin and Wyoming bringing their balloting to an end. Those 14 states are worth 156 electoral votes and could potentially be enough to crown a new commander in chief.

Virginia Too Close to Call in First Round of Closings

Irish Musician for Progressive Solutions — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 19:36:56 EST

The key battleground state of Virginia along with Georgia, Indiana, Kentucky, South Carolina and Vermont were the first states in the country to complete their polling, with balloting coming to a close at 7 p.m. (EST). The six states represent 58 of the 538 electoral votes up for grabs tonight, the winner needing at least 270 votes.

Virginia, Indiana, South Carolina and Georgia are too close to call, reports MSNBC. Additionally, the network is calling Vermont's 3 electoral votes for Barack Obama and Kentucky's 8 electoral votes for John McCain.

The next round of closings comes at 7:30, when North Carolina, Ohio and West Virgina call it a day.

The 'Obama Way': Seven steps to success

Irish Musician for Progressive Solutions — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 18:29:59 EST

What his distinctive approach reveals about his possible administration

NEW YORK - I was sitting in David Plouffe’s spartan office at Barack Obama’s campaign headquarters in Chicago.

This horserace has been an interesting one, but that’s not what I wanted to talk about. Instead, I asked the campaign manager about decision-making.

A lot of the campaign's choices have been better than good.

‘The line just keeps going and going’

Irish Musician for Progressive Solutions — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 18:25:16 EST

High turnout reported as some wait hours to cast their ballots

Record numbers of voters flocked to polling stations across the nation Tuesday, energized by a historic election in which they would select either the nation’s first black president or its first female vice president.

Barack Obama, a first-term Democratic senator from Illinois, led in nearly all public opinion polls over John McCain, a veteran Republican senator from Arizona. Both campaigns launched get-out-the-vote efforts that led to long lines at polling stations in a contest that Democrats were also hoping would help them expand their majorities in both houses of Congress.

Heavy turnout was reported across the nation, and even as polls began closing in areas of Kentucky and Indiana at 6 p.m. ET, the identity of the next president was not expected to be known for many hours.

Voting Obstacles in VA, PA

Irish Musician for Progressive Solutions — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 18:15:32 EST

From Election Protection...
Voters are reporting major obstacles to casting their ballot in polling locations across Virginia and Pennsylvania, which could disenfranchise thousands of voters in each state.

Long lines, broken voting machines, ballot shortages and misused absentee ballots are just some of the problems that threaten voting.

Election Protection legal volunteers are working to resolve these issues quickly to ensure that no one leaves their polling location without effectively casting a ballot. Voting rights experts urge voters to stay patient and cooperative in the meantime and to report all instances of voter intimidation or disenfranchisement to Election Protection’s 866-OUR-VOTE hotline immediately.

Voting Issues in FL, OH, VA, and MI

Irish Musician for Progressive Solutions — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 18:08:35 EST

From Election Protection...
As of 2:45pm, Election Protection has received over 48,000 calls to the 1-866-OUR-VOTE Hotline since the phones opened at 5:30am this morning.

The Power of One!

Irish Musician for Progressive Solutions — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 17:47:45 EST

A reader advisory

This article is my response to a Barack supporter in the United States who was
concerned about the the possibility of colour and race being used surreptitiously in concert with elements of the media, to disguise an attempt to deny Barack Obama a fair opportunity to achieve his destiny. The Presidency of the United States of America.

Dear Barack supporter

To be credible, I need to reveal one or two facts about myself before addressing the subject of your concerns. I am a 68 yr old white male and an Australian citizen of Irish and Scottish heritage! As such I am not eligible to vote in your election. However I support Barack Obama for election as the 44th President of the United States, simply because he is by any standard, the most talented, and qualified candidate from either side of the political divide.

Only one candidate has satisfactorily demonstrated the type of skills and leadership qualities people quite rightfully expect to see in a candidate for the office of President. Specifically, in Obama’s overwhelming favour these include: His sound policy positions, diplomatic skills, political skills, sage judgement, people skills, personal ethics, temperament, proven management skills and of course at 47 yrs, his age advantage, when considering the work load and pressures involved in managing the most demanding job in the world.

Watch Democracy Now's Election Night Special

Irish Musician for Progressive Solutions — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 17:25:05 EST

A special five-hour election day broadcast from 7pm to Midnight EST (4pm-9pm PST) to bring you the 2008 election results as they come in.

Democracy Now! will be doing a special five-hour broadcast on November 4th from pm to Midnight EST (4pm-9pm PST) to bring you the 2008 election results as they come in.

The program will include live coverage of the results as the polls close, on-the-ground reports from across the country, reactions from across the globe, and running in-depth analysis and commentary from a wide range of guests you won’t get anywhere else.

http://www.alternet.org/election08/106068/watch_democracy_now%27s_election_night_special/

Election Day: Voting Snafus from Around the Country

Irish Musician for Progressive Solutions — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 17:06:44 EST

Paper ballot scanners malfunction in Michigan ... Missing mail-in ballots in Colorado ... Four-hour waits in Virginia ...

We'll update this story with the most recent coverage as it becomes available, so check back throughout the day and night -- in fact, just keep it bookmarked.

You can also check on our other stories to find out about what's going on with the Senate, House and ballot measures; hot news, emerging trends, and juicy rumors; election results; and what's going on with Palin and the rest of the wingnuts.

We also want to hear from you -- don't forget to leave us your comments about what you're seeing and hearing out there.

***http://www.alternet.org/election08/106093/election_day%3A_voting_snafus_from_around_the_country/

Early Morning Voting in Rural VA

Irish Musician for Progressive Solutions — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 16:42:32 EST

My husband and I got up at 5am this morning so we would be at our polling place before it opened at 6am. We definitely knew where we were going. If we had any doubt, I had the benefit of numerous e-mails received from both campaigns over the past three days urging me to vote and providing my polling location, some with maps included, and its hours. We left the house about 5:30 am in the dark and drizzle and headed into town.

We arrived at the Floyd County Rescue Squad headquarters, the polling place for the Little River precinct, the largest in Floyd County, at 5:45am. It was decked out with campaign signs (pretty evenly distributed between Democratic and Republican candidates) like it was Christmas, the most elaborate display I've seen in my ten years here. There were 17 people already in line when we took our places at the end. The line grew quietly and steadily. At 5:55am as the rain was getting heavier they decided to let us into the building.

Virginia Vet Sees Obama Supporters Thronging the Polls

Irish Musician for Progressive Solutions — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 16:26:16 EST

At seven-thirty this morning I went to the polls two blocks from my house. I had voted two weeks before, but I wanted to observe the activity in my stretch of the city. I saw a neighbor in the front of the line, just short of entering the building. He had been waiting for an hour. Behind him, the line stretched the remainder of the block and had turned the corner. I have voted in elections here for the past four years, usually in the morning, and never had to wait more than 10-15 minutes.

Virginia Voting: Broken Machines, No Paper Ballots

Irish Musician for Progressive Solutions — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 16:18:56 EST

At the Math and Science Center in Richmond, Virginia, an early breakdown of electronic voting machines led to a three-and-a-half hour wait to vote on Tuesday morning, according to one poll watcher.

"Some people have been here since 6 a.m., and the first voters are just finishing now," said Judith Browne-Dianis, adding that the Richmond location she was watching did not even have backup paper ballots in case of machine malfunction.

"They didn't even have the paper ballots required by state law," she said. "That's not even something we were supposed to have to ask for. I went inside and asked the polling judge, and he said 'we don't have 'em. They [the Board of Elections] were supposed to give 'em to us, and they didn't.'"

Floridians pack polls in 'smooth' voting

Irish Musician for Progressive Solutions — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 15:54:20 EST

After an early rush on Tuesday, voting had slowed to a steady pace by mid-afternoon at most South Florida polling sites, with few glitches and no massive lines reported.

''This was more convenient than anything I could have imagined,'' said Erica Mena, a 22-year-old model and actress who voted at a fire station in South Beach.

Election officials credited the smooth Election Day with the overwhelming success of the two-week early-voting period that ended Sunday. About one of every four registered voters in Miami-Dade, Broward and statewide cast their ballots early, and many others voted absentee.

Voting Irregularities Noted in Some Areas

Irish Musician for Progressive Solutions — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 15:36:06 EST

Voters faced long lines around the country Tuesday morning, but early reports of problems were sporadic.

So far, there were few signs in key swing states of the sort of massive polling place breakdowns that plagued Ohio in 2004.

As of 10:30 a.m., the election protection hotline organized by a coalition of civil rights groups had already fielded 25,000 calls from around the country, with the majority of the problems reported involving long lines, broken voting machines and paper ballot shortages.

In Philadelphia, the Committee of Seventy, a local civic group, reported machine breakdowns.

America Weighs Risk and Rebirth

Irish Musician for Progressive Solutions — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 12:05:06 EST

CHICAGO — A year ago, Barack Obama was just another guy up on a stage, one of the many also-runnings who flanked presumptive Democratic presidential nominee Hillary Clinton. He seemed a candidate waiting to be consigned to the asterisks of history.

Today, unless every poll and credible prognostication turns out to be wrong, Mr. Obama will be elected president of the United States.

And he will have done it by just standing there, and waiting for us to come to him.

Mr. Obama has not changed over the past year. Those who know him don't speak of growth or metamorphosis. He is fiercely ambitious - has been his entire adult life - and he channelled that ambition into an audacious campaign that harnessed high-tech know-how and strategic brilliance to a phenomenal Internet-based grassroots movement.

Polls Show Obama With Clear Advantage

Irish Musician for Progressive Solutions — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 11:56:33 EST

McCain, Hampered by Bush and Economic Crisis, Must Win Virtually Every Close State

Democrat Barack Obama, seeking a history-making victory in a presidential campaign that has captivated the country as few others ever have, maintained a clear advantage over Republican John McCain yesterday as the two made final appeals in battleground states and readied massive get-out-the-vote operations in advance of today's balloting.

State and national polls released yesterday underscored the steep hill McCain must climb in the final hours to reach the 270 electoral votes needed to win the White House. Burdened by President Bush's unpopularity and an economic crisis that redrew the race in September in Obama's favor, the senator from Arizona sprinted through a series of critical states yesterday -- all but one of which Bush carried four years ago -- exhorting his supporters to help him defy the odds.

Record Prince William, VA Crowd Last Night for Last Campaign Rally

Henry M — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 09:43:02 EST

It was an exciting night at the Prince William Country Fairground. I got there early enought to be close enough to the stage to see his comfortable smile in spite of the hardships of travel and the loss of his grandmother!

Barack Obama's Final 2008 Campaign Rally in Manassas, Virginia
Nov 3, 2008 November 03, 2008 C-SPAN Senator Barack Obama spoke at a campaign rally at Prince William County Fairgrounds in Manassas, Virginia.

Obama Campaigns in the Final Stretch - washingtonpost.com

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/gallery/2008/11/04/GA2008110401199.html

There were 70-100,000 of us. We all shouted that we were "fired up" and "ready to go."

"I'm feeling kind of fired up. I'm feeling like I'm ready to go," Obama told nearly 100,000 people gathered for his final rally Monday night in Virginia.

"At this defining moment in history, Virginia, you can give this country the change it needs," Obama said to voters in a state that hasn't voted for a Democratic presidential nominee in 44 years.
The Illinois senator's final day of campaigning was bittersweet: he was mourning the loss of his grandmother, Madelyn Dunham, who helped raise him but died of cancer Sunday night and never got to see the results of the historic election.

Thanks for reading this blog. I got in late last night and didn't get a lot of sleep, but it's time for me to head back to Virginia and get out the vote. I hope that some of our paths will cross at victory celebrations and on the mall in Washington for the inauguration.

Sincerely,

Henry M

Progressive Media Have Really Helped Stop the Spread of Dirty Political Rumors

Irish Musician for Progressive Solutions — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 00:34:53 EST

This Internet-driven, hyperactive presidential race is forcing accountability on two of the oldest tricks in politics: dog whistles and secret smears.

Everyone can hear it now. This Internet-driven, hyperactive presidential race is forcing accountability on two of the oldest tricks in politics: dog whistles and secret smears.

With a "dog whistle," politicians use code words to signal unpopular stances to one target audience, while avoiding a backlash because the reference is lost on others. Many people miss President Bush's layered language for evangelicals, from hinting that legal abortion is like slavery to his odd prediction that history will see Iraq as just "a comma." (It only makes sense if you know the proverb, "Never put a period where God has put a comma.") Code words don't fool everyone, but from "states' rights" to "welfare queens," GOP campaigns have tapped racial resentment without facing widespread opprobrium. Secret smears run on a similar axis, enabling politicians to undermine an opponent without taking responsibility for the attack. But the times are changing.

Thanks to Sarah Palin, We Get to See the Cruelness of the GOP as It Really Is

Irish Musician for Progressive Solutions — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 00:32:31 EST

Palin has helped reveal to the public pit-bull snarl that rouses GOP supporters to cry out, "Traitor!" against Obama, and "Kill him!"

It was Jesus Christ, if Matthew is to be believed, who said, "Love thine enemy." It is in that spirit that I write this belated valentine to Sarah Palin.

Sarah, I love you for having revealed unto the media the snarling heart of the beast that is the base (and the soul) of the Republican Party. Yes, you have the lipstick and the heels, not to mention the calves and bosoms, that send Republican men into swoons, but you have more; the pit-bull snarl that rouses your supporters to cry out, "Traitor!" against Obama, and "Kill him!"

George Bush kept those folks in their kennels, ran as a "compassionate conservative," and always masked his most heinous plans in double speak. Bush the Elder, Ronald Reagan, and even Richard Nixon never explicitly ran on hate and fear of "the other." They used words that were coded enough that it was possible to pretend that they were true.

But now the beast is loose.

The Opening Obama Saw

Irish Musician for Progressive Solutions — Mon, 03 Nov 2008 22:43:21 EST

A good politician triumphs by adapting to the times and taking advantage of opportunities as they come. A great politician anticipates openings others don't see and creates possibilities that were not there before.

John McCain might have been the second kind of politician, tried to be the first and enters Election Day at a steep disadvantage. Barack Obama certainly seized the opportunities created by President Bush's failures and the country's profound discontent, which only deepened after the economic crash. But by creating a new social movement, new forms of political organization, and a sense of excitement and possibility not felt in politics for three decades, he is bidding to become one of the country's most consequential leaders.

Obama Holds Lead in Battlegrounds

Irish Musician for Progressive Solutions — Mon, 03 Nov 2008 22:40:07 EST

In the latest battleground state polls, Democrat Barack Obama holds clear leads in Ohio and Pennsylvania, and is slightly ahead in Florida.

Quinnipiac University's surveys, released this morning, show Obama leading Republican John McCain by 50 percent to 43 percent among likely voters in Ohio, by 52 percent to 42 percent in Pennsylvania, and 47 percent to 45 percent in Florida.

The Ohio Poll, conducted by the University of Cincinnati, also shows Obama ahead, 51.5 percent to 45.7 percent among likely voters.

The three states, with 68 total electoral votes, are crucial; no Republican has won the White House in modern times without winning Ohio.

The Quinnipiac surveys were conducted Oct. 27-Nov. 2 and have margins of error of plus or minus 2.5 percentage points in Ohio and Pennsylvania and 2.3 percentage points in Florida. The Ohio Poll was done Oct. 29-Nov. 2 and has a margin of error of plus of minus 2.7 percentage points.

http://www.boston.com/news/politics/politicalintelligence/2008/11/obama_holds_lea.html

Economic Message Buoys Obama

Irish Musician for Progressive Solutions — Mon, 03 Nov 2008 21:53:12 EST

COLUMBUS, Ohio - Senator Barack Obama entered this presidential race as the antiwar candidate, defined by his early and vocal opposition to the 2003 Iraq invasion. He captured the left wing of the Democratic Party, particularly in Iowa, and rode that support to the nomination.

Almost two long years later, Obama enters the campaign's waning hours a strikingly different candidate, one who may win the presidency tomorrow largely on the strength of his economic message.

Among the many ways in which Obama has evolved as a candidate, none is as fundamental as his shift in focus from the war to the economy. The metamorphosis reflects both the changed political climate over the past 21 months, and the agility Obama has shown in responding to it.

"He crafted a message of change, broadly speaking, and he has been able to essentially fold almost anything underneath that concept," said Dan Palazzolo, a political scientist at the University of Richmond in Virginia. "He has very skillfully adapted to almost every contingency that has come up."

Jim Crow Survivor Casts First Vote: For Obama

Irish Musician for Progressive Solutions — Mon, 03 Nov 2008 21:26:29 EST

In his 103 years, Ernest Smith says, he never drank, smoked or voted. Though he’s yet to sample tobacco or alcohol, on Thursday, Smith cast his first ballot —- for Democratic nominee Barack Obama.

“I voted, and I want to vote again,” said Smith, a testament to clean living. “It felt good.” [...]

Born in 1905 in Pembroke, N.C., Smith lived most of his life there and was first eligible to vote in 1928 —- then the voting age was 21.

But for African-Americans like Smith, suffrage was far from universal. Literacy tests and poll taxes were enacted through much of the Jim Crow South to suppress black turnout.

Had Smith attempted to vote in 1928 —- he says he never tried to register —- his choices would have been Herbert Hoover, campaigning as a Republican maverick, and Democrat Al Smith who, like Obama, was a historic nominee. [...]

Ernest Smith is confident that this year, he’s backing a winner.

“We’ll make it, thank the Lord,” said Smith, bolting up from his rocking chair, clapping. A snapshot of Obama sits on his dresser.

Three Strikes and Mac's Out!

GoFuckYourself — Mon, 03 Nov 2008 19:39:33 EST

We hear a lot from John McCain about his experience. Well, if his experience is so valuable, then why did Barack whip him in three presidential areas since the start of the general election? First, Barack chose a VP who is qualified for the job. Mac didn't. Second, Barack handled the financial melt down with aplomb. Mac didn't. And third, Barack has managed a masterful campaign. Mac hasn't. Three strikes and Mac's out!

Sarah Palin attacks Barack Obama over old comments on coal (but leaves a few things out)

Irish Musician for Progressive Solutions — Mon, 03 Nov 2008 19:00:18 EST

During a campaign appearance in Marietta, Ohio, Sarah Palin criticized comments made earlier this year by Barack Obama -- which surfaced today in an audio tape posted on YouTube.

In it the Democratic presidential candidate discusses the effects of his proposed emissions policy on the coal industry.

“He said that sure, if the industry wants to build new coal-fired plants, then they can go ahead and try, he says, but they can do it only in a way that will bankrupt the coal industry, and he’s comfortable letting that happen,” the GOP vice presidential nominee told 4,800 supporters at Marietta College, not far from the border with West Virginia, a major coal-producing state.

“We will not let that happen to the coal industry,” she continued. “Instead, we’ll make clean coal a reality. And to help power the American economy with clean-coal technology, we’re going to be looking to the hard-working people of Ohio and West Virginia and Pennsylvania.”

Said the Alaska governor: “You’ve got to listen to that tape.”

Onward in Carson City, NV

Irish Musician for Progressive Solutions — Mon, 03 Nov 2008 18:05:03 EST

Dear Friends and Family, I've been thinking of you so much and wanting to write and share what's going on here on the ground in Carson City, but we're so busy from morning to night I haven't found the time.

The main activity of the campaign is going from door to door, connecting with voters in person, to persuade undecided voters and make sure all the supporters vote. Nevada's early voting was from the 18th to the 31st, and we had a great turnout. 57% of all the registered voters here in Carson early voted! And the Dems significantly outnumbered the Reps. There's Obama yardsigns and bumperstickers visible all over which is quite incredible for a relatively rural and definitely conservative area of Nevada. We have more and more Republicans telling us they're voting for Obama. Just yesterday a woman came up and told me that she voted for Bush in 2004 and has regretted it and even tho she has always voted Republican, she can't afford to do it anymore. "I have to vote for Obama."

It’s time to cowboy up

Irish Musician for Progressive Solutions — Mon, 03 Nov 2008 17:59:34 EST

They’re a lot of fun, those culture wars. City folk get a chuckle over the cretins out in Kansas passing laws against evolution. The Fox News crowd enjoys fulminating about feminazis. Good ratings, good rantings, good times. Dividing the electorate into rural heartland/ignorant rubes vs. civilization/East Coast eggheads is as old as the Republic, starting with Jefferson’s yeoman farmer pitted against Hamilton’s urbane merchant. And although the Civil War split the country along different lines, by the end of Reconstruction we were back pitting cowboys against suits, Mr. Smith against Washington, D.C.. But when real disaster strikes, that’s all over. I’m a transplanted Westerner who married a guy from New York City. We live in Brooklyn. One of the few good things that came out of 9/11 is that for a while I could walk into bars in Idaho and Nevada and Montana and not have to mumble when asked where I’m from. In fact, people would tear up, ask me where I was “that day,” shake my hand and even buy me a beer.