Young Democrat and Current Politics

How About We Save The Economy?!?!

2009-02-06T16:11:00.008-05:00

Even though the United States is having one piece of bad news after another, the Republicans are attempting to avoid supporting the new President. The Republicans say that they believe this new spending bill is frivolous, yet just last year they gave billions to the banking industry. So if they support the banks, yet not the people, are the really even representing the American people???

The Daily Show (out of every news outlet) has the best comments on this entire problem. It's a 7 minute clip well worth the watch!

"Republicans debate the stimulus bill, forgetting that C-SPAN doesn't destroy old tapes when a new administration steps in."

...And They're Off

2009-01-30T21:43:00.004-05:00

The Republicans have an amazing ability to oppose anything that is stamped with the new Democratic mandate. Not only did the Democratic party increase their power in the House AND the Senate, they also captured the White House. But the Republicans still believe the American people most want their version of saving the economy; tax cuts. Just one thing to say to those Republicans; President Bush, who was in power for the PAST EIGHT YEARS, passed tax cuts almost at the start of his Presidency and yet by the end of his second term we have arguably the worst economic crisis since the Great Depression.

As Jamison Foser, Executive Vice President of Media Matters, states in a Media Matters e-mail newsletter today:

From the way the media have covered this week's stimulus package vote, you would think the goal of the legislation was to get Democrats and Republicans to sit together for lunch in the House cafeteria, rather than to turn around an economy in free fall.

After the House passed the stimulus package by a comfortable margin, much of the media reacted not by examining the bill's contents and the likelihood that it would provide a much-needed boost to the economy, but by focusing on the fact that it passed without a single Republican vote.

Why the GOP's unanimity in opposing the stimulus package should be surprising is anybody's guess; the last time we had a newly elected Democratic president, in 1993, congressional Republicans were unanimous in opposing his economic package, too. Then-Rep. John Kasich went so far as to promise that if Bill Clinton's plan worked, Kasich would switch parties. (It did; he didn't.) Point being: Congressional Republicans do not have a strong track record of working with Democratic presidents in recent memory. Perhaps because they were too busy trying to subpoena the White House cat.

Nonetheless, the Democrats' purported failure to get Republican support for the bill was, according to many reporters, the story.

(Full story can be found here and you can sign up for the Media Matters Newsletter here)

Bye Bye Blago!!! Wave (the second politician in as many weeks to leave our graces)

2009-01-29T18:24:00.003-05:00

And there ends another corrupt government officials tenure in an office of power. Unlike so many people who make mistakes in our government at all levels, this one official was removed. Now some have said this is premature and that he still may be cleared by the legal process of the judicial system. But the blessing of our form of government is we do not have to wait for that to happen. He has been removed (and thus some level of guilt is attached) by the House AND Senate, with impeachment passed in the House with only one "no" vote and the Senate with NOT ONE Senator voting against conviction.

The now ex-Governor claimed this is setting a "dangerous and chilling precedent" in his conviction. Throughout politics of the state of Illinois, corruption is something that can't be denied. And if this new "precedent" is to continue to convict guilty government officials, then this is one precedent which we not only can, but must, allow.

Blagojevich, in his claim that that "I will fight. I will fight. I will fight until I take my last breath. I have done nothing wrong," shows us that he is still convinced that corruption comes with the job. Selling a US Senator's seat is not the right thing to do. And with "his closest cronies" (as the AP article labels them) already being convicted, it is only more talk from a man who has to this point, shown no real reason to be trusted. His only defense, he did nothing wrong; all-the-while mounting evidence, which he in no way factually disputed, proves he is guilty. We would be just plain naive to say that he is the only (or even more corrupt) official in the US. Some may never be caught and some may take digging to uncover, but such vigilance pays off, as we can prove by this one example.

President Obama...Bye Bye Bush

2009-01-21T22:33:00.004-05:00

If there is anyone who missed the Inauguration and Address by Obama, C-SPAN has it on their website here!

(note: the video will open in a new pop-up window. To view, you must disable any pop-up blocking software you have turn on)

2009 Reading List

2009-01-17T21:38:00.004-05:00

Blink: The Power of Thinking Without Thinking
By: Malcolm Gladwell
- It came out in 2007, yet haven't had the chance to read it yet. The title lends itself to reading by a college student who would love to 'think' without having to do anything, just being able to utilize our judgement skills.

Infidel
By: Ayaan Hirsi Ali
- A book about "Somali-born member of the Dutch parliament who faced death threats after collaborating on a film about domestic violence against Muslim women with controversial director Theo van Gogh (who was himself assassinated)."

Guns, Germs, and Steel
By: Jared Diamond
- I read this back in 2005 (it came out over a decade ago) and am going to reread this year

The Third Chimpanzee: The Evolution and Future of the Human Animal
By: Jared Diamond
- I never got to reading this pre-GGS book of his and thought that as GGS was a great read I should also try this one

Hot, Flat, and Crowded: Why We Need a Green Revolution--and How It Can Renew America
By: Thomas L. Friedman
- From the author of The World Is Flat, which I read the year it came out, newly out this one has gotten, from the people I know, very good reviews!

Now this is a short list of just a few books I plan to read this year, although there are many more which I will read throughout the year.

Noticeably Gone, But Back With Palin On The Mind

2009-01-14T23:59:00.002-05:00

Since late November I had gone off the radar on this blog (again). School has again eclipsed my ability to update this blog, but I am now back!

This blog 'rant' is about our great non-VP Sarah Palin. In her persisting media battle, she has come out as not only a sore loser but as the constantly same person, not changed by this, arguably, life changing experience which she has recently gone through.

She has now ragged on her interviewers (NOT HERSELF, who was the one actually speaking!) and on the people who were around for the longevity of this election. When it comes to her disastrous Couric interviews, she attempts to blame the McCain campaign advisors who prompted her to do more than one interview. She also came out with guns blazing against Tina Fey. Palin said that "Fey spent election season not only 'exploiting' her but 'capitalizing' on her sudden fame." But was it not PALIN HERSELF who went on to SNL and participated with Fey in her portrayal of Palin??? The rise of Couric's and Fey's fame Palin said revealed a lot about our society, which Pain herself is a part of and actually participated in, a la her participation in SNL.

There is no denying that Palin is hypocritical on this point and again is beating a dead horse. The American people have moved beyond the election and on to the next four years of Obama, yet Palin must keep reliving the election, the time when she was in the spotlight, and if she gives that up then she is just the Governor of Alaska. This fact that Palin is harping on things which everyone else has given up on, even McCain himself, is exhausting and I just can't take more complaining; if Palin wants to be successful she must step up to the plate and propose change in her direction, not reminiscing on her days past on top of the political ladder.

PBS Foreign Exchange: The Real News

2008-11-07T00:24:00.006-05:00

Recently, Paul Jay was on PBS' Foreign Exchange and really explained well in this interview about what The Real News is really about. I have long advocated using and supporting The Real News and its election coverage is just one more area which they have excelled in, as it gives a different, non-corporate views!! Below is the segment as uploaded to YouTube by The Real News.

It's Happened Again

2008-11-06T15:37:00.000-05:00

In three states this year the clock was thrown back on the issue of gay marriage and another state put up roadblocks to adoption. This is occurring in a time in which so much progress is being made on many issues, even on gay rights issues. But the loss of California to grip of Prop 8 shows that there is much progress which still needs to be made. But I am very happy to look at the exit polls showing a large number of those under 30 opposed this ballot measure, and it was indeed the older generation which pushed Prop 8 to passage. But sadly as those under 30 only comprised 20% of votes cast, this wasn't enough to avoid such a horrible fate for gay rights. With just a few years, the movement has made progress to the point which we are at today and with just a few more I hope we can make all that much more progress as a country, with no room for bigotry in race, religion, sexual orientation, political thought, equal access, or any one of a million differences which make America such a diverse and great nation. There is always hope for the future and with President-Elect Obama (has a nice ring to it, no?) we can make progress on equal rights, the economy, the war, as well as all the problems which affect this nation and this world!

From the No on 8 campaign:

We had hoped never to have to write this.

Sadly, fueled by misinformation, distortions and lies, millions of voters went to the polls yesterday and said YES to bigotry, YES to discrimination, YES to second-class status for same-sex couples.
And while the election was close, and millions of votes still remain uncounted, it has become apparent that we lost.

There is no question this defeat is hard.

Thousands of people have poured their talents, their time, their resources and their hearts into this struggle for freedom and this fight to have their relationships treated equally. Much has been sacrificed in this struggle.

While we knew the odds for success were not with us, we believed Californians could be the first in the nation to defeat the injustice of discriminatory measures like Proposition 8.

And while victory is not ours this day, we know that because of the work done here, freedom, fairness and equality will be ours someday. Just look at how far we have come in a few decades.

This entire article, titled "We will not give up", can be found on the website of Equality California.

It Is Now All Over...And Not A Moment Too Soon

2008-11-05T01:08:00.006-05:00

As is true with I believe every American, I am very glad this election is now over. With this election, I am very happy to see many improvements have been made. First off, although I supported Cynthia McKinney from the Green Party for President, I must say a job well done to Obama and I am proud to be in America and feel that Obama is a much better fit than McCain would ever be for this country. I am also proud of my state staying a strongly blue state (more for the fact it is liberal than pure party identification).

We have also passed BOTH of the propositions appearing on the Michigan ballot. The first one, on legalizing medical marijuana and the second on supporting and expanding the rights of stem cell research were both critical and righty were passed. I am saddened that there was such strong misinformation on the part of the "No on 2" campaign with the outright lies putting in jeopardy the critical means of finding and researching cures. Now, it is great to have 2 (or more) sides to every issue and having a No on 2 campaign insures that there is true debate, but the No on 2 campaign crossed lines in this debate to outright lies which attempted to stop the research of cures for people who need them. I am not saying that there is for sure something going to be found in the immediate future or in Michigan, but having the ability to even advance some research can lend itself to more possibilities in the United States and the world over.

I am also very happy that out of the two key US House races in Michigan, the one currently reported is not only for a Democrat, but a party change from a Republican, this being Michigan's 9th district. Michigan's 7th is the other district considered key and is currently too close to call, although Democrat Mark Schauer has been extending a lead, coming from a shortfall just hours ago, with 76% of precincts reporting (CNN and CBS have yet to declare a winner in this race).

It is also great news that long serving Democrat Carl Levin has been reelected to the US Senate, which he was first elected to in 1978, and currently serves as the chair of the powerful Senate Armed Services Committee.

You can find election results in places such as at CNN, CBS and NPR.

(UPDATE: The 7th Congressional District has been called in favor of Democrat Schauer by a margin of just over 7,000 votes with 100% precincts reporting, defeating one term incumbent Tim Walberg)

I Could Not Have Said It Better Myself

2008-10-29T19:05:00.002-04:00

...and hence I will not try. On OpEdNews.com, Amee (alt. spelling on byline of Amy) Chew made a post titled "Support Obama, and Vote McKinney? Not a contradiction" which discussed voting for the Green Party candidate Cynthia McKinney. Below are some excerpts of the post, although to read the entire article follow this link.

"...each vote for them [McKinney/Clemente] contributes towards building unprecedented ballot access, federal funds, and an inroad to the national debates, for the Green Party."

"In the words of McKinney herself: 'We are in this to build a movement. We are willing to struggle for as long as it takes to have our values prevail in public policy.'"

"It's time for us to say, these brave women – and those who follow in their footsteps – represent the future that we want for politics in this country."

"...we too must set our sights on strategies of significant long-term change."

"VOTE TRUTH THIS YEAR, AND WORK FOR IT NEXT."

An Endorsement is an Endorsement is an Endorsement

2008-10-27T18:21:00.002-04:00

Well, with the brilliance of the internet, it has been made known that The Anchorage Daily News endorsed Obama for President on the 25th. Now for most Americans, endorsement do not dictate their votes, and really any endorsement should be taken with a grain of salt. But the significance in terms of atsmosphere which endorsement can create cannot be over stated. One such case was the craze following the endorsement of Obama by Colin Powell (which can be evidenced here or here or here or here or...well you get the picture) which showed how the endorsement of a candidate can, if nothing else, prompt much free publicity in a generally positivity light.

Now the endorsement by The Anchorage Daily shows that at the very least there isn't unanimous support for Gov. Palin and on the contrary of the much publicized 80% rating has recently taken a dive as early as the beginning of this month. The endorsement shows a clear resolution by the newspaper which will be back to reporting to Gov. Palin as governor after her stint as the Veep candidate is over. The paper asserts such ideas that Obama "brings far more promise to the office" and Gov. Palin. The point is also raised that to find which candidates are or are not going to bring change one needs to

look no further than the guilt-by-association lies and sound-bite distortions of the degenerating McCain campaign to see how readily he embraces the divisive, fear-mongering tactics of Karl Rove.

When you are trying to figure out who to vote for, the one consideration which must be an overriding influence is what you believe and think is best. But take account for why these people and respectable media groups make endorsements, so you can at least educate yourself, if not on the side you wish to vote, at least the reasons others are not voting the same way as you are.

Just remember "Like picking Sen. McCain for president, putting [Palin] one 72-year-old heartbeat from the leadership of the free world is just too risky at this time."

Vote Yes

2008-10-25T19:29:00.000-04:00

Socialist! Oh No Not Me!

2008-10-24T11:34:00.000-04:00

Socialist. A word which Americans are very, very afraid of taking over this country. Yet we don't have a major party candidate who is a socialist, although McCain would like the people of this country to think there is. McCain recently stated that Obama's policies on taxes is a version of socialism and that Americans find this an unwelcome proposal. But is McCain really one to be accusing others of government socialism???

It is a fact, in record, that McCain voted for (as well as Obama) the recent 700 billion dollar rescue package. Now, this package WAS needed, but trying to argue that this isn't some idea (small or not) of socialism is just, well, wrong. This bill which is giving billions of dollars to banks in a way to save them, uses taxpayers dollars and the government is then taking a stake in the banks through their actions; which is nationalizing of banks. This idea is of a socialist twinge, so when McCain then tries to accuse only Obama of being socialist is clearly hypocritical and it shows McCain's true colors. If you are going to take an action, at least own up to it and don't deny what is in the public knowledge, all a denial does it causes a loss of faith in your principles.

McCain attempted to claim that this package was needed and that America had not choice, thus he was justified in voting for it. Which means he is saying that this part socialist idea is good when the economy is bad but only free market should be advocated for in the 'good times.' But it is exactly that lack of regulation which put this country into this tailspin which increasingly socialist ideas are saving. You cannot have it both ways Mr. McCain; pick a side and stay with it.

In other news, good job to the 98% of Michigan residents of voting age being registered to vote! Now go to the polls on November 4 or vote absentee!

Disaster Relief Through The Red Cross

2008-10-23T14:57:00.004-04:00

Click Here To Visit The American Red Cross Website!

Michigan Prop 2

2008-10-16T19:59:00.002-04:00

Michigan has two propositions on the ballot for this November's election. Prop 1 deals with medical marijuana and Prop 2 is on the ability to create new stem cell lines in Michigan. There is no reason not to support these two propositions.

As for Prop 2, there is a great group which has formed to promote its passage, Cure Michigan. There is also the opposition, 2 Goes 2 Far. Prop 2 not only should be passed but really needs to be passed, and this has gained the support and attention of Bill Clinton, with his recent visit this week to Michigan to promote Prop 2. This allows for much more research in Michigan and expanding what limited research is already being perused. The abilities of what new stem cell research is astounding and can help out millions. And if Michigan, with one of the worst economic situations in the nation, can spur growth in the sciences, Michigan can do not only much needed research, but bring funding and jobs to people at Universities and science labs the state over.

Inasmuch, the Univeristy of Michigan has a list of "Five things you should know about stem cell research" published just this week. At least inform yourself on the issues, from both sides, and make a decision based on the facts and not what you want to be true or what misinformed people might have told you; you never know, your opinion might change to either side of this issue from where you stand now! If a person makes an informed decision than no one can blame that voter for their vote. The worst thing to do is not get involved at some level!

1984 Appears 2008; But At Least It's Vindicated

2008-10-14T13:51:00.002-04:00

There is a great editorial which was published in the Anchorage Daily News yesterday, a paper in GOVERNOR Palin's home state. The editorial claimed that Palin's response to the report of her ethics violations "is either astoundingly ignorant or downright Orwellian." This piece goes on to talk about Palin's abuse of power and her clear unethical behavior directed towards those serving under her. To read the entire editorial, which everyone should, you can find it here.

Election 2008

2008-10-08T20:38:00.005-04:00

With just a matter of weeks left before the election it is important for everyone to vote. As the Oct 2008 volume of the BORDC's "Dissent Is Patriotic" says:

Those we elect on November 4 will determine whether or not we reverse seven years of affronts to our Constitution. We urge you to vote, and to make constitutional issues a priority in your choice of candidates. Although few of us are ever fully satisfied with the candidates available to us, not voting at all presents the greatest danger of preserving the status quo.

I would also like to draw your attention to the issues of civil liberties and the presidential candidates. BOTH John McCain and Barack Obama have a very concerning stand on the many issues which encompass all that is civil liberties. But Cynthia McKinney again is a great choice as she opposes all the civil liberties violations of the President and does not compromise like Obama has, and reflects that in her votes. All taken in Obama is the better of the two large party candidates but Obama is far from a level which is needed for this country in this new age in which violations of our basic civil liberties is all too easy. We need real leadership, and we CAN find that in Cynthia McKinney and the Green Party.

"Dissent Is Patriotic" is a Bill Of Rights Defense Committee e-mail newsletter. For the Oct 2008 Vol. 7, No. 9 edition click here!
To subscribe to the e-mail newsletter click here!
For the "Where Do The Presidential Candidates Stand On Civil Liberties?" report from the BORDC, click here! (PDF)

Vote McKinney

2008-10-04T23:34:00.000-04:00

McCain-A-Michigan...Or Not

2008-10-02T17:52:00.005-04:00

"McCain will go off TV in Michigan, stop dropping mail there and send most of his staff to more competitive states."

And such a loss it is to us here in Michigan. The idea that McCain has given up on a full press on getting the vote out of Michigan shows the ever growing power not just for Obama, but against McCain and his running mate. In the debate tonight between Palin and Biden can continue to highlight the differences which people are finding between what the McCain camp wants Americans to think about Palin and what Americans actually think.

The blame for the current economic crisis, which is hitting Michigan extremely hard, is hitting the Republican party (which John McCain AND President Bush are members of, which McCain for some reason doesn't really accecpt) in a 2 to 1 margin.

We can see that McCain shifting away from Michigan shows that a larger problem of McCain's that the American people are rallying not just for Obama (which negativeads could try to counter) but against McCain, for which a pro-McCain ad would help but he refuses to tout his qualifications in ads and only wants to stress Obama's lack of qualifications.

On another note on tonight's Veep debate, the expectations for Palin have been woefully low even though she was praised in the debates for governor. This can clearly be seen to save Palin from the mega-disaster of her Katie interview, and by setting her skills as low, if she even just manages to avoid another "mega-disaster" then she can be billed as the 'winner' of the debates by consertatives, even if Biden does make a better impression overall at the debate. Media Matters has a good post on their site on this exact issue.

Sarah Palin...Or Tina!!!!

2008-09-30T00:05:00.001-04:00

Google The Good

2008-09-29T22:09:00.003-04:00

Yes, this is a blog entry about a blog entry. I just have to say, and happily so, Google's commitment to equality and not just for a portion of the people of this county. Although this post is about one issue, Cal's Prop 8, it does show the ideals of Google, as open access on the internet also can translate into open access to everyone in real life. In the age of internet censorship in many counties and government access without a warrant to much information on the internet, this statement brings some hope to the internet, and Google, for freedoms to be upheld in the future by the institutions which have really created the 21st century, the internet age. You can find the "Official Google Blog" entry here.

McCain...The Economic Savior??? I Think Not!

2008-09-28T21:35:00.001-04:00

Well, the US Congress is at it again and it looks as if there might be a resolution this week (finally) on the economic bailout bill. But when looking towards the election in a matter of weeks, does one want John McCain to take control of this nations economy??? This is the man who doesn't know how many houses he has (which is seven at last count) and who owns, not one or two cars between him and his wife, but 13 cars, of which might seem noteworthy to point out are not all American.

But what is more of an eye opener for me is the fact that he has used pure stage craft in his "suspension" of his campaign to go back to D.C. to deal with the economic package, further calling for a postponement of the debate, which he attended!!! I would much prefer not to have McCain dealing with the issues, yes Mr. McCain more than one, as President. If he felt he couldn't go to the debates AND talk to other senators, then he really must re-learn how to multitask or maybe hire a few hundred extras to multitask in his place.

(UPDATE: 9/29/08 - It seems like our government has worked yet again (a hint of sarcasm there) and failed to pass a economic package, which lead to the largest point loss of the DJIA in history, just short of 778 to close at a whopping 10,365)

The Real News: It's A Deal

2008-08-19T18:50:00.003-04:00

Now I have many times voiced my support for The Real News. This program, not funded by corporations or government, allows it to be independent and gives the best possible news to everyone. This group, which if you donate to, in the US or Canada, is tax deductible, is now offering a way to not only support this GREAT news service, but also allows you to receieve a copy of a great DVD and even a Real News shirt (see below). Visit The Real News' website at TheRealNews.com to donate and become informed!!!

If you can't donate, use the website to get your main news. It allows you to not only be informed but informed from a source with no strings attached to its reporting and supported directly by the people who use it, and only them!!!!

(Donate at least $10 per month for 1 year, or $75 now and receive a copy of The History of the National Security State. For $95 one time, we will include our newly designed Real News t-shirt.)

The Truth Squad

2008-08-18T21:43:00.004-04:00

The Change to Win Truth Squad, a group made by Change to Win partnership, has already gotten some media attention, with just a very small gathering, in a very short period of time. This group is staging such demonstrations as foreclosure funerals, Yucca Mountain disaster prep, and even a mock rally in Carson City.

Up to know in this presidential race, almost all the attention has been on Obama. McCain has been on the attack on Obama himself, as he does not have the power to attack on the issues. Thus, a group, of even just nine people, are traveling the county to highlight and bring attention to the other contender for the office of President of the United States, one John McCain.

According to the newly formed website to support the Truth Squad, "Change to Win is a partnership of seven unions and six million members founded in 2005 to organize workers of the new American economy." Six million is quite the number and as such, a group of nine can show the massive support of the ideals of America "so that all workers have a paycheck that can support a family, affordable health care, a secure and dignified retirement, and the opportunity for the next generation to be better off."

The group will have three tours. Go see this event for itself in an area near you!!!

Tour ONE
8-18 - Reno, NV
8-19 - Carson City, NV
8-20 - Las Vegas, NV
8-21 - Pahrump, NV
8-22 - Phoenix, AZ
8-24 - Denver, CO

Tour TWO
9-5 - St. Paul, MN
9-6 - La Crosse, WI
9-7 - Ceader Rapids, IA
9-9 - Kansas City, MO
9-11 - St. Louis, MO

Tour THREE
9-26 - Grand Rapids, MI
9-27 - Lansing, MI
9-28 - Detriot, MI
9-29 - Toledo, OH
9-30 - Cleveland, OH
10-1 - Pittsburgh, PA
10-3 - Scranton, PA

You can visit their website at www.worsethanbush.org

Going Away For A Bit Again

2008-07-14T13:32:00.002-04:00

As I will be moving I will not be able to update this blog for a few weeks, but I will be back!

Cynthia The Official Pick Of The Green Party

2008-07-13T13:53:00.000-04:00

Congregations to Cynthia McKinney for receiving the nomination of the Green Party for President in 2008 in their convention which was held in Chicago, IL. As I have stated before, I do believe that McKinney is the best choice for our next president in 2008, ahead of both Obama and McCain. I am a Democrat because I believe in the party but I vote for and support candidates which are the best choice for our country, no matter what letter will be by their name. Best of luck to McKinney and her running mate Rosa Clemente.

Lieberman: A Democrat Past His Expiration Date?

2008-07-12T15:15:00.000-04:00

Sen Joe Lieberman (I-Connecticut) was defeated in the primary election in 2006 to run as a Democrat, so he was instead elected as an independent, although up to now he has remained part of the Democratic Senate caucus. But that might change if his support of Republican John McCain for president spills over to him addressing the Republican National Convention. Robert Novak reported on this earlier today:

"...Democratic insiders are certain Sen. Joseph Lieberman next year will be kicked out of the party's caucus and lose his Senate chairmanship if he addresses the Republican National Convention in St. Paul, Minn., as planned...Lieberman's Democratic colleagues willing to accept his support of Sen. John McCain for president consider speaking to the GOP convention as the last straw."

Robert Novak also stated why the Democrats might consider such a move:

"After his 2006 election, the Senate Democratic leadership agreed to give Lieberman the Homeland Security Committee chairmanship if he provided the decisive vote to make the Democrats a 51 to 49 Senate majority. However, with additional Democratic senators likely to be elected this year, that agreement is expected to be null and void in the new Congress."

President Bush And A "Different" McCain

2008-07-04T19:24:00.003-04:00

President Bush is not very popular among the American people. After hitting only a dismal 23% approval rating in a L.A. Times/Bloomberg poll from the 19-23 of last month, a CNN/Opinion Research poll picking up on that conducted from the 26-29 put the President at a whole 30%. Neither of these numbers are something which a President could be elected by and as such, one must look to the support of the President's party for the next president, John McCain. When Bush endorsed McCain for president back in March he stated that "They're not going to be voting for me. I've had my time in the Oval Office."

Yes Mr. President you have done your time and we do not want a clone of you in office. According to the Congressional Quarterly Voting Study of the 110th Congress McCain reached a level of 95% in support of Bush’s policies in 2007, growing from his average of 89% since Bush had taken office. Clearly not only does "McCain's Senate record generally [show] strong support for the president's agenda — except for big tax cuts" but that he has increased his support of this president, just as the American people have DECREASED their support of this president. Clearly this shows that McCain is distant from the American people and has made more mistakes as President Bush has. Supporting a unpopular President is not a way to get elected to be the very next President of the United States of America.

McCain is not different from Mr. Bush and the American people (and the American media) need to wake up and really pay attention. There is the points to which McCain is different, but he is not only from the same party as the unpopular president we have now, but McCain also overwhelming supports Bush.

BORDC Declaration

2008-07-01T19:45:00.003-04:00

The Bill Of Rights Defense Committee recently sent out this press release on their new declaration on "Constitutional rights and human rights." The entire release follows:

BORDC Issues New Declaration for Independence Day
New York Times Ad Kicks off National Campaign
With Independence Day approaching, the Bill of Rights Defense Committee (BORDC) is issuing a new declaration signed by nearly 600 people and organizations who reject sacrifices of their liberties in the name of security and who pledge their support for fully restoring Constitutional rights and human rights.

BORDC is running "A Declaration for Our Times" as a half-page signature ad in The New York Times on or around July 4. The group has also recorded the declaration as video and audio public service announcements.

According to Christopher Pyle, who wrote the Declaration, "The situation that we face today is in many ways worse than the situation that sparked the war for independence. George W. Bush's violations of liberty far exceed anything that King George III ever did."

"Many Americans feel dispirited by the continuing array of freedom-robbing laws, policies, and government actions, including warrantless domestic spying, torture, and unlimited detentions, which they see as un-American," BORDC director Nancy Talanian explained. "In this Declaration, we are calling out the administration for usurping our constitutional rights and committing ourselves to resolving our grievances through all lawful means available, as the founding fathers did."

The declaration launches BORDC's People's Campaign for the Constitution, which is organizing local grassroots coalitions during the 2008 election season and beyond to hold candidates for public office accountable to the constitutional principles to which they must swear an oath.

In 2002, BORDC spearheaded a nationwide campaign that put city, county, and state governments on record for upholding their residents' constitutional rights. The passage of eight statewide resolutions and more than 400 local resolutions and ordinances led Congress to strengthen its oversight when it reauthorized the PATRIOT Act in 2006. However, BORDC recognizes new approaches are needed.

"A major challenge we face," Talanian says, "is that Congress has been rubber-stamping the President's lawlessness on a range of constitutional abuses." She pointed to the administration's warrantless wiretapping program as an example. "Congress should be restoring the privacy of Americans' telephone calls and electronic communications and demanding specifics on how the administration violated the law. Unfortunately, Congress has repeatedly voted to change the laws that the administration has apparently been breaking," she said.

The Electronic Frontier Foundation (EFF), which signed the declaration, observed, "It is an immeasurable tragedy that as July 4th approaches, Congress appears poised to pass a bill that would betray the spirit of 1776 by radically expanding the president's spying powers and granting immunity to the companies that colluded in his illegal surveillance program." EFF is representing several alleged victims of the warrantless wiretapping program in a lawsuit against AT&T.

In order to end the practice of Congress giving in to fear mongering about terrorism, Talanian said, "The people need to organize themselves locally and to meet with legislators and candidates face to face, in coalitions. After all, the U.S. government was created to serve the people. Therefore, we need to set the government's agenda and communicate to our representatives clearly that we are unwilling to accept suspensions of our liberties and of anyone's human rights in exchange for our government's promises of greater security."

Links:
Declaration page at http://constitutioncampaign.org/toolkit/declaration.php contains links to print, video and audio versions of "A Declaration for Our Times" and related resources.

More Drilling

2008-06-27T18:22:00.002-04:00

The issue of gas is becoming a big issue all of America, and the world, is talking about. Saudi Arabia recently announced that it would increase production of oil by 200,000 barrels a day. But this announced increase can be seen to have no effect on the actual price of oil, as the price per barrel is now at a record closing today at over 140 dollars, a doubling over last years price for a barrel of oil. As an earlier post states, the only way to reduce the money Americans put forth for gas is to reduce how much we have to use.

The head of the Energy Information Administration, Guy Caruso, recently said that offshore drilling "doesn't affect prices that much," as well as the fact that "additional supplies would amount to only a couple of hundred thousand barrels of oil a day."

America clearly needs to have a more effective plan than drilling, as those sources will not even being to yield oil for 5 to 10 years in the short term, and a small increase in production by offshore drilling is not a long term solution either. If a plan of offshore drilling, as McCain and Bush (alike!) propose, does not have benefits in the short term OR the long term, where is the assistance to the American people coming from under this plan? My answer would be that there is no assistance coming from the Republicans.

This plan even has opponents in the President's and the Republican hopefuls own party, as in the opposition by Schwarzenegger.

Public Financing In 2008

2008-06-23T21:24:00.003-04:00

I don't support Obama or McCain, but this developing argument over public financing, with a flip-flop accusation being thrown, is something which is truly a waste of time. As it stands, the system to get money to candidates is a mess; be it through there own fundraising or through the public option. With such an ease to just use and abuse the system, it is no wonder that people can be criticized for it. No matter your choice, in terms of financing a campaign, your doing something wrong; at least from the view of your opponent. The system must be fixed in a manner to apply to all candidates before we start needlessly wasting time on accusations which WILL NOT fix the system.

There are many aspects to funding which needs to be fixed. But the first way that must be taken is a way to have all candidates, from the two large parties or from third parties, to be able to get public financing, and only public financing, for campaigns. That means that other than the base amount, the rest of a campaign comes from, you guessed it, a single centralized source.

The inability to create a single system for all to use has led to the current controversy.

McCain has openly criticized Obama, because as David Gergen a CNN Sr. Political Analyst said "Obama is sure to come under more fire for his decision to reject public financing this fall. Much of it is deserved: he has clearly broken a vow on a matter of importance to many Americans."

Then Arianna Huffington counters with an argument against McCain (which takes a bit more space to explain):

In the fall of 2007, McCain opted into the public financing system for the GOP primaries, which meant he'd later receive just over $5 million in public funds in exchange for agreeing to a fundraising limit of around $54 million for the entire primary process, which ends when he accepts the nomination at the Republican National Convention in September.

By late November, his campaign was practically broke, so McCain took out a pair of $1 million loans, using the public funds he would receive as collateral.

Cut to Super Tuesday, when McCain had the Republican nomination all but wrapped up. Suddenly, he didn't want to be bound by that $54 million limit, so his campaign did a 180 and opted back out of the public financing system.

But as David Mason, the Republican-appointed chair of the FEC, has pointed out, you can't just unilaterally opt out -- especially after securing a loan based on having opted in. The response of the McCain campaign is quite simply to ignore Mason. And because the FEC currently lacks a quorum (thanks to stalling tactics by that human roadblock to reform, Mitch McConnell) that's where things stand, pending a ruling on a lawsuit filed by the DNC.

Clearly, for all concerned the mess of this is leaving all involved open to criticism and a way to always undercut their opponents campaign when nothing else comes around. This problem needs to be solved, as our elections just won't go away and come around like clockwork, and with those elections will come this problem knocking, each and every time.

Scott McClellan

2008-06-20T21:48:00.002-04:00

Over the past few weeks, Scott McClellan has been making the rounds in promotion of his new book, What Happened. One of the better "interviews" which I heard was on my favorite NPR program, Wait Wait...Don't Tell Me. In this, he appeared for a segment which appears on the weekly show called Not My Job.

But looking to the appearance which Scott McClellan made before the House Judiciary Committee under oath, one may see that some answers might be yielded but it is far from all the truth which the American people deserve. A portion of his appearance can be found here from the American News Project.

Oy...Offshore Drilling

2008-06-19T23:38:00.002-04:00

"After eight years, President Bush and Dick Cheney have turned the GOP into the Gas and Oil Party. That's the legacy that they are going to leave."

-Edward Markey, US Congressman (D-MA)

With record gas prices hitting all over the country, of course it has been launched to the top of politics and with the issue taking center stage, our President has commented on this subject. To this end, President Bush has again stated that he is in favor of offshore drilling as well as drilling in ANWR. More drilling offshore is not the answer to our energy costs. As energy analyst Phillip Verleger stated for an NPR report on Morning Edition "we're only going to get out of this problem by using less."

And as for drilling in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge (ANWR), a great statement by Sen. McCain in that same NPR report was that "When America set aside the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge, we called it a refuge for a reason." And that is a statement that is something I can simply agree with!

The Real News and Arianna Huffington

2008-06-18T23:32:00.003-04:00

Arianna Huffington, the one who started The Huffington Post, sat down with one of my favorite news sources, The Real News (which was formally International World Television, which I have previously posted about) and talked about the media, John McCain, and Barack Obama in separate segments.

It is good insight and comes from Arianna, who has become a major player in the world of news, although all the work is contained online, and online alone, showing the real potential of what the internet has done for awareness and information. Between news sites like The Real News, commentary and major blog sites, such as The Huffington Post, and the numerous blogs of every day people from around the world, information something which can be accessed by almost anyone. In some cases and in some countries, that free flow of information is sadly curbed or completely controlled by a few select people or a single government interest and that is something which everyone must stand up to!

(Some of my previous posts on The Real News can be found HERE and HERE)

5-4 Majority In Boumediene v. Bush

2008-06-15T23:31:00.004-04:00

On Friday the United States Supreme Court ruled on a case before it on Guantanamo titled Boumediene v. Bush (PDF file). This ruling on the habeas corpus rights of "enemy combatants" held at Gitmo, insures that we are a country where people know they have rights. If those rights want to be denied, by government or by others, the ruling will be made in a court, a civilian court at that, which allows for an open system, which is in the end, separate from any political branch of the government.

As Justice Souter said, it has now been "four years from the time Rasul [v. Bush] put everyone on notice that habeas corpus was available to Guantanamo prisoners." This has allowed for as much time as needed for these to begin to work there way through the courts system, but sadly, as Justice Souter further states that "some of the prisoners represented here today [have] been locked up for six years." This comes in contrast to the main point against this case that it is pushing the justice system onto the actions of the military, which can handle these claims in a reasonable time period.

But six years of detention, and four years after a US Supreme Court case establishing the knowledge for all that habeas corpus was there for these people, is much too long to NOT rule on this case, thus the justice system, and even the Supreme Court has every right to step in and insure that everyone is protected! Although Justice Scalia claims that this case is "invoking judicially brainstormed separation-of-powers principles to establish a manipulable 'functional' test," it is just not so, and that the principles which this is based off of is held to the American people's standard of freedom, equality, and every other basic principle which every school child is taught in elementary school, and is supported by a majority of the United States Supreme Court.

I'm Back!

2008-06-13T18:48:00.002-04:00

After the better part of an entire school year I have been, well, in school. But now that it is a better part of a month into summer I have the time to begin again blogging about politics! Much has changed in the past year and this post will be all about, you guessed it, the race for the White House.

I have openly supported Bill Richardson. He was a great choice with all his experience, at all levels of government and in many parts of government. But sadly star power has once again trumped real facts and basic common sense. Now with the field to McCain and Obama I will endorse neither for president. Moreover, I can say that I support Cynthia McKinney, who is running on the ticket for the Green Party.

Cynthia was a member of the Democratic party until her ouster in a primary, which can be highlighted in the documentary American Blackout. On her website, she touts reasons which why she makes a good candidate for President of the United States:

A former six-term Member of Congress from Georgia, Cynthia McKinney proved herself a courageous voice for the voiceless, unafraid to speak truth to power. Cynthia's Power to the People Committee is working to put Cynthia on fifty-one ballot lines!

Cynthia:
* Consistently opposed funding for bloated military and secret intelligence budgets;

* Introduced Articles of Impeachment for George Bush, Dick Cheney, and Condoleezza Rice;

* Introduced, championed, and passed in the U.S. House the Arms Trade Code of Conduct, prohibiting the sale of arms to known human rights abusers;

* Authored legislation to end the use of depleted uranium weapons;

* Passed legislation to extend health benefits for Vietnam War veterans still suffering the health effects from exposure to the defoliant Agent Orange;

* Challenged Pentagon Secretary Rumsfeld and Chairman Myers of the Joint Chiefs of Staff on the $2.3 trillion missing Pentagon money and on U.S.-sponsored war games taking place on September 11, 2001;

* Currently serves on (a) International Tribunal on Hurricanes Katrina and Rita, (b) Brussels Tribunal on Iraq, (c) is participating in War Crimes prosecutions in Spain, and (d) is working with the Malaysian Peace Organization to criminalize war;

* Introduced legislation to eliminate federal subsidies for corporations taking jobs overseas.

Quite a resume for support and more than the Democratic nominee can put fourth, as he is a new figure on national politics. Now arguing for a "Washington insider" as many times candidates are dubbed is not something that is preferred by most of anyone in American, but SOME experience should be had before gaining the power of the United States. The only reason that in the race that experience has not been a major issue is that the two top running in the Democratic party, Hillary and Obama, are HIGHLY inexperienced at the national level, and the Republican party has a candidate who is more experienced than anyone really wants.

So although I consider myself a Democrat (although I am registered independent), I will not be voting for the Democratic nominee and instead voting for Cynthia McKinney. I am proud to say that I have helped support her run for the White House, making Michigan one of the six states which have given enough to help qualify Cynthia for matching funds, the five others being California, New York, Oregon, Illinois and Texas. But 14 other states are needed with many other states on the way to achieving the needed $5000 mark. According to her website those are:

D.C. ($3.5k), Florida ($2.3k), Massachusetts ($1.8k), Maryland ($1.2k), Maine ($2.1k), Minnesota ($3.8k), New Jersey ($3.6k), Oklahoma ($1k), Washington ($2.7k) and Wisconsin ($1.8k). Arizona and Iowa are the next closest to entering the running at the $1k level. (Unaudited figures current through May 31st, 2008)

Time

2007-11-05T17:22:00.003-05:00

Because of time constraints of school, I will not be updating this blog for the foreseeable future.

UPDATE: As of June 13, 2008 this blog is again active!

The UN And Richardson!

2007-10-18T20:49:00.001-04:00

From the CNN Political Ticker:

Democratic presidential candidate Bill Richardson on Thursday defended the United Nations and its role in international diplomacy against recent Republican attacks.

"[I will] introduce some Republicans to a basic reality," said Richardson. "[The] United Nations…is a necessary and important framework for building the international cooperation that will be necessary to confront problems like environmental degradation and poverty."

In a speech addressing 21st century global threats, the New Mexico governor said the U.N. is vital to peacekeeping, humanitarian relief, and solutions to global climate change.

"As a former U.N. ambassador there — your ambassador there — I, more than
anyone in this race, understand the shortcomings of that institution," the New Mexico governor admitted. "But I also know the incredible power in the legitimacy of international cooperation."

Peace 2007

2007-10-12T11:24:00.000-04:00

The Nobel Peace Prize 2007

"for their efforts to build up and disseminate greater knowledge about man-made climate change, and to lay the foundations for the measures that are needed to counteract such change"

Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) Geneva, Switzerland Founded in 1988

Albert Arnold (Al) Gore Jr. USA b. 1948

America's Favorite Cities!!!

2007-10-10T11:51:00.000-04:00

Props has to be given to all the top three finishers in the categories (of ones I could find) of the Travel + Leisure magazine survey of America's Favorite Cities. But I must point to the Twin Cities as they are a great city and they placed in many categories, including:

1st in Cleanliness

2nd most Intelligent

2nd in Public parks and spaces

2nd in Theater

3rd most Friendly

3rd in the Overall Cityscape

The best rating for the Twin Cities was peoples access to the outdoors and the worst feature was the weather (no surprise there!).

(ratings for visitors, visit Travel + Leisure magazine's website for results of surveys of residents, although the results are very close in most categories)

Long Enough

2007-10-08T20:12:00.001-04:00

Bill Richardson for President...Or The Senate?!?!

2007-10-04T22:54:00.000-04:00

There has been the question asked that if Bill Richardson does not recieve the Democratic nomination for President will he now run for retiring Sen. Pete Domenici's Senate seat. But according to CNN, an adviser to Governor Richardson said that he "is running for the White House unequivocally, and we are going to be the Democratic nominee."

Governor Richardson is a great governor and would make the best President out of the current Democratic and Republican canidates. He has the experience and the will power to get change done and is not going to be another person who panders to Washington interest groups, as shown in his ability to fund raise a lot of money (5.2 million dollars in the past three months, according to The Seattle Times) without the star studded backings some of his Democratic rivals have been receiving.

And don't forget to contribute to Bill Richardson's campaign!

Your Hard Work Has Paid Off

2007-10-03T14:59:00.001-04:00

An e-mail sent out yesterday to Bill Richardson supporters reads as follows:

Dear [name],

Together, we made it.

This weekend was a little crazy here in Santa Fe. We're still catching our breath from our end-of-quarter fundraising push, which kept us all in the office all day Saturday and Sunday, working the phones and processing contributions.

But I wanted to take a quick minute to write and let you know that late Sunday evening, we beat our one week, $1 million dollar goal! We'll be reporting strong numbers to the FEC this week, which will position us well going into these last months.
We're not done yet. The last months of this year will be our most important quarter yet and we have some tough battles ahead of us. Now is when early primary voters actually begin tuning in, and when our strong end-the-war message and Bill's plan for a new energy revolution will sway minds. We're going to need your help to get our message out, to build our grassroots movement, and to help us raise the funds we need to cut through the media clutter.

But I'll email you about all that another day. Today is about saying "thank you." Governor Richardson and I are truly grateful to you for all that you have done for our common cause - and for all that you'll do over the coming months.

Sincerely,

Dave Contarino
Campaign Manager

P.S. If you haven't yet joined our campaign to push Congress to get all the troops out at http://www.getourtroopsout.com/ -- why not do it right now? We need your pushpin on our map!

Kathy Griffin Censored...It's Not Free Speech

2007-09-26T09:40:00.000-04:00

As most people know by now, at the Daytime Emmys, Kathy Griffin was censored for comments she made. Why one might ask? Why would they cut it when other stations in response when explaining the censoring played the full clip? It is because they have the power. As such, with that power to put up what they want, when something is pushing the boundaries (like Sally Field at the Emmys as well) they can cut it out at there will. Although FOX is fully within there rights to cut and censor parts of speeches or events they air, FOX should NOT have censored Kathy Griffin or Sally Field. What harm was there?!?! Other stations played the clip afterward and no action has been taken against those stations. So as such, the only reason I can see that the censorship occurred is because someone at FOX felt uncomfortable and now it looks as if the only things that don't make the rich big wigs at FOX uncomfortable will be broadcast.

Bye Bye Free Speech!

The following is of Kathy Griffin appearing on Larry King Live after the Emmys (taken from the Larry King Live Podcast):

Spying Scandal and Bill Richardson

2007-09-23T18:46:00.000-04:00

From Time magazine's Verbatim section:

"You know something is wrong when the New England Patriots face stiffer penalties for spying on innocent Americans than Dick Cheney and George Bush."

- BILL RICHARDSON, Governor of New Mexico and Democratic presidential candidate, using the New England Patriots spying scandal to take a swipe at President Bush.

General David Petraeus or General Betray Us

2007-09-20T23:02:00.000-04:00

I saw this great article in TIME Magizine's website today about the whole controversy about an ad that was put into a newspaper by a political group not associated to any person, but everyone in Washington (no matter they are not even connected to this group) are being almost required to denounce this ad. Some of the article follows:

The biggest beasts in the barnyard are all aflutter over something they read in the New York Times. It's that ad from MoveOn.org — the one that calls General David Petraeus, the head of U.S. forces in Iraq, general betray us. All across the radio spectrum, right-wing shock jocks are themselves shocked.

Welcome to the wonderful world of umbrage, the new language of American politics. You would not have thought that the likes of Rush Limbaugh and Bill O'Reilly would be so sensitive. Sticks and stones and so on. Yet they all seem to have taken one look at that ad and fainted dead away. And when they came round, they demanded — as if with one voice (or at least as if with one list of talking points) — that every Democratic presidential candidate must "condemn" this shocking, shocking document.

The constant calls for political candidates to prove their bona fides by condemning or denouncing something somebody else said or to renounce a person's support or to return her tainted money are a tiresome new tic in American politics. They're turning politics into a game of "Mother, May I?" Did you say "Here is my plan for health-care reform"? Uh-oh, you were supposed to say "I condemn MoveOn.org's comments on General Petraeus, and here is my plan for health-care reform."

Cost of War: Wage Peace Campaign

2007-09-19T00:02:00.000-04:00

Visit the AFSC Wage Peace Campaign website here!

Betrayal of Trust

2007-09-14T19:23:00.000-04:00

MoveOn.org's new ad about the troop levels in Iraq.

Net Neutrality

2007-09-09T22:20:00.000-04:00

According to the American Civil Liberties Union (ALCU)

"the Department of Justice issued a filing with the Federal Communications Commission opposing net neutrality and opening the door for discriminatory, two-tiered pricing systems. The DoJ filing supports telecoms in their efforts to roll back the clock on net neutrality, and would permit telecoms to censor or block users from desired content based on their ability to pay."
(September 6, 2007)

According to the ACLU net neutrality:

"ensures that you, not a corporate monopoly, choose how you access and use the Internet. It protects your ability to access and send any lawful information on the Internet. It prevents Internet Service Providers, such as cable and telephone companies, from preferring certain content, applications, or services over others. Net Neutrality means individual freedom, not corporate control, on the Internet."

And according to a Washington Post article:

"William L. Smith, chief technology officer for Atlanta-based BellSouth Corp., told reporters and analysts that an Internet service provider such as his firm should be able, for example, to charge Yahoo Inc. for the opportunity to have its search site load faster than that of Google Inc."

This means that these few large companies could charge either groups such as google and yahoo more for faster service or they could charge customers more for faster and better connections...or they could charge BOTH!

This would kill much of what the internet has come to embody. For example, for a blogger, like myself, I might have to pay a fee each month for my website to load as quickly as a large news website (such as cnn.com). And that large company could easily afford a fee per month for quick loading versus small time bloggers and start up companies who do not have large amounts of capital available.

The net MUST BE neutral!!!

The 2008 Election Looks Good For Democrats

2007-09-07T21:39:00.000-04:00

The Republicans have a tall order winning the White House in 2008 no matter who they pick. Currently, when asked "If the 2008 election for president were being held today, do you think you would vote for the Democratic candidate or the Republican candidate?", a total of 46% said Democrat, 34% said Republican, 14% said Depends and 6% said Unsure. This according to a Quinnipiac University Poll Aug. 7-13, 2007.

If you total up all the persons saying they would vote Republican and added ALL of the persons saying depends, the Democrats would still come out on top, with the Republicans only receiving 48% of the vote! The total voting Republican of 34% is only one percentage point above the most current job approval rating for President Bush of 33% (FOX/Opinion Dynamics 8/21-8/22).

In a poll conducted July 19-22, 2007, 51% said they would vote Democratic, only 27% said Republican, 17% said unsure and 5% were declared neither.

Thus in the lead up to the race for the White House the Republicans have a long way to go to catch the Democrats. The Democrats, no matter who they vote to bring to the election have a good chance of beating ANY Republican nominee.

Mr. President, YOUR WRONG On Iraq

2007-09-03T15:15:00.000-04:00

Give Peace A Chance!

2007-08-31T18:54:00.000-04:00

Make your voice heard and march for peace!

(Peter, Paul & Mary - Washington Peace March - 1971)

Sheep in Congress

2007-08-26T18:21:00.000-04:00

Aren't you wondering why a new Congress, elected by the American people to make a change and stand up to the White House, is acting like a flock of sheep?

In the last hours before their summer recess, leaders in Congress caved in to President Bush's fear-mongering and passed a new law that lays your phone and email records bare to government spies without the basic legal safeguards that have governed domestic surveillance for almost 30 years.

The American Civil Liberties Union is standing up for our privacy rights and calling out Democratic leaders for their sheepish behavior by running "Sheep in Congress" newspaper ads in the home states of House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid.

I hope you'll join with me, watch the online and print ads, and support the message we're sending.

Congress must not fail freedom on issues like the loss of habeas corpus rights, domestic spying and torture and secret detention.

We need lawmakers in Congress, not sheep.

Bush: Job Ratings

2007-08-24T20:06:00.000-04:00

The President has yet to bring his approval rating up from around 30% ever after the 2004 election. Currently his ratings stand at 31% approval and 59% disapproval, with 10% unsure. This was a Pew poll conducted 8/1 through 8/18. In a Gallup poll conducted 8/13 to 8/16 president Bush stood at 32% approval, 63% disapproval and 5% unsure.

This does not bode well for presidential contenders who are taking a stance in support of our current Presidents policies; both for the Republicans in the primary and again in the General election. The continued low numbers for President Bush are only good news for Democrats in there attempt to gain the White House and continue to expand there numbers in Congress.

The continued resentment of President Bush's politics, mostly on Iraq, will be pushing more and more people to vote for candidates who oppose the current strategies.

VOTE DEMOCRATIC IN '08!!!

Governor Jennifer Granholm

2007-08-16T21:15:00.000-04:00

Governor Jennifer Granholm of Michigan welcoming users to her new site, www.JenniferGranholm.com.

(Video can be found here on youtube.com)

Focused Ad - Bill Richardson for President

2007-08-14T16:36:00.001-04:00

Gov. Richardson's new ad about his economic successes.

Visit Gov. Richardson's YouTube page here!

Visit Gov. Richardson's website here!

Bill Richardson: Iraq Or Education?!?!

2007-08-12T17:32:00.000-04:00

Gov. Bill Richardson recently commented that "We need to get out of Iraq, where precious lives and needed dollars have been wasted." He went on to say that "We could use these resources to improve our schools and make the economy, once again, work for the middle class."

According to Bill Richardson for President, Gov. Richardson has also proposed in terms of educational funding and policy that he would scrap the No Child Left Behind Act, raise starting teacher salaries to $40,000, establish a federal Pre-K program, oppose private school tuition vouchers and make college accessible to every high school graduate among other proposals.

Currently, with the political landscape as it is, sadly not all of these proposals would be able to be achieved at the same time, as these proposals to SAVE public education are opposed by the Republicans who are continuing to push out public schooling and push for private education.

If, as Gov. Richardson proposes, that America leaves Iraq immeditely, we would have MORE THAN ENOUGH money not only to enact all of these proposals for education, but also many other needed reforms in such areas as health care, energy and the environment.

Democrats And Same-Sex Marriage

2007-08-11T14:50:00.000-04:00

Recently CNN reported on the televised forum sponsored by the Human Rights Campaign Foundation. In this forum Democrats were confronted with questions pertaining to same-sex rights. Many candidates (only Democrats attended, all Republicans were invited but declined) supported civil unions but not marriage. For example, Sen. Hillary Clinton said, "I prefer to think of it as being very positive about civil unions." Gov. Bill Richardson said his opposition came from the fact that "it's a question of doing what's achievable."

But two of the candidates, Rep. Dennis Kucinich and former Alaskan senator Mike Gravel, support same-sex marriage. Rep. Kucinich said that "This is really a question of whether you really believe in equality."

Now, although I support Gov. Bill Richardson for President, I have to disagree with him and the other Democratic candidates who share his opinion. A cornerstone for any push for the protection of civil liberties and equal rights cannot exclude any part of the population, no matter personal feelings toward the issue at hand. It is not about supporting any personal lifestyle decision; it is about providing equality for ALL Americans in there PERSONAL life. The right to do as you please is as American as America itself. And as same-sex marriage is not, if approved, going to infringe on others rights, then what support is there for taking a position other than being in support?!?!

The New Energy Revolution

2007-08-07T01:27:00.000-04:00

“We must "Act Boldly and Act Now" in order to make America a Clean Energy Nation like I made New Mexico a Clean Energy State. Consider this a call to action, for Congress, the energy industry, and the public. I am calling for a New American Revolution -- an energy and climate revolution.” – Governor Bill Richardson

Gov. Bill Richardson has proposed a comprehensive energy plan, a new revolution, The New Energy Revolution.

This Revolution aims to:

Lower Demand for Oil by 50% by 2020

Raise Mileage Standards to 50 MPG by 2020

Reduce Greenhouse Gases 80% by 2040

Create New Efficiencies And Energy Sources in the Electrical Sector: 50% by 2040

And Much, Much More...

Visit Gov. Richardson's website for more information. For information on Gov. Richardson's energy plan, visit The New Energy Revolution on his website.

Donate Now To The Real News

2007-08-02T00:35:00.000-04:00

The Real News depends on donations from people like you!

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The Real News is non-profit and does not accept funding from governments, corporations or advertising.

In the U.S. and Canada, donations are tax deductible.

Click on the above Support The Real News logo to be directed to the donation page for The Real News

Voting Machines Vulnerable To Hackers

2007-08-01T00:11:00.000-04:00

A 1.8 million dollar study conducted by the University of California on behalf of Secretary of State Debra Bowen. This study "uncovered serious security flaws" in "three electronic voting systems certified for use in California."

The representatives of three voting machine companies (Diebold Elections Systems, Hart Intercivic and Sequoia Voting Systems) criticized the study, "saying it had reached unrealistic conclusions." Hart said it found "several inconsistencies, alternate conclusions and errors" in the report.

In one example, when testers used the Sequoia e-voting machine, they "were able to gain physical access to the system by removing screws to bypass locks." In another example, "testers were able to manipulate several components networked to the server, including loading wireless drivers onto the server that could then be used to access a wireless device plugged surreptitiously into the back of the server", when using Diebold's Windows operating system.

Although there is some problems that could be used against taking the results as a serious threat, the problems with the e-voting machines are too real to ignore. Although in many cases it might be difficult to change results, the fact of the matter is that there is a strong possibility for these machines to be used to alter results.

As Avi Rubin, professor of computer science and technical director of the Information Security Institute at Johns Hopkins University, told TechNewsWorld , that "I had expected them to find problems -- but to be able to replace firmware in all three systems is nothing short of an utter takeover of machines, and that shouldn't be possible." He went on to say that "What's even scarier is that the researchers were looking at certified systems that have been already used in an election."

When there is such glaring problems with these systems they should NOT be used in something as pivotal and a key to American democracy as voting. The machines should be pulled from service until a clear fix can be found for the MANY problems in the current electronic voting machines.

Obama Girl vs Giuliani Girl

2007-07-20T16:34:00.000-04:00

Now I support Bill Richardson for 08 but the Obama Girl vs Giuliani Girl is a great way to bring a needed break from the normal level of seriousness in politics.

Celebrity Donors To Bill Richardson's campaign

2007-07-16T23:22:00.000-04:00

From the most recent presidential fund raising disclosures, CNN has compiled a list of celebrities who have donated to presidential campaigns. As expected, Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama have both received many donations from celebs. But Bill Richardson has received many to his campaign as well.

The donors to Bill Richardson's campaign include:

* Michael Douglas, actor: $3100
* Val Kilmer, actor: $2300
* Paul Newman, actor: $2300
* Edward James Olmos, actor: $2300
* Wendie Malick, “Just Shoot Me” actress: $500
* Steven Spielberg, director: $2300
* Kate Capshaw, actress, wife of Steven Spielberg: $2300
* Jodie Foster, actress: $1000
* Christie Brinkley, self-described as “Model/Mom/Environmental activist”: $500
* Bette Midler, actress/singer: $4600
* Sherry Lansing, former film executive: $2300
* William Friedkin, director: $2300
* James L. Brooks, producer/writer: $1000

The Real News - The Promise

2007-07-12T01:10:00.000-04:00

For more information visit the homepage of The Real News Here.

Previous posts made on this blog about this topic can be found:

Here on Tuesday, December 26, 2006

Here on Wednesday, October 4, 2006

Here on Saturday, July 29, 2006

Here on Tuesday, May 16, 2006

Bill Richardson In The Polls

2007-07-11T11:26:00.000-04:00

Newsweek recently released a new poll about "How Accepting Are American Voters?" In this poll they polled the ideas of voting for a non-traditional candidate. For example a woman (Clinton), an African-American (Obama), a Mormon (Romney) and a Hispanic (Richardson).

80% of Americans said they would vote for a Hispanic but when it came to Bill Richardson only 22% had a favorable rating, with 14% having an unfavorable rating and a huge 45% having never heard of Richardson. Also asked if Richardson has enough experience to run the country, 57% said that they "Don't Know". Bill Richardson shows the disadvantage that is set up by the mass media to candidates that are not in the top of the polls. Only three candidates are really being considered by the major media groups for the Democratic nomination and Richardson is not one of them. Thus, his "never heard of" ratings are much higher than Clinton's 1% or Obama's 13%.

Visit Richardson's homepage to show your support for a true candidate and not a candidate chosen by the media. Americans are capable of independent thought; so show it!

Bill Richardson Ad

2007-07-10T21:13:00.000-04:00

The series of Bill Richardson TV ads have had a great message about his plans and experience. But they also bring something Americans can relate to (for example a job interview) and they bring humor to politics (which is sometimes a good thing in such a polarized environment).

Below is one such ad of Gov. Richardson's

UNESCO confirms that it is not involved in the “New 7 wonders of the world” campaign

2007-07-09T13:54:00.000-04:00

In an article on the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) website, they reaffirm that they are in no way connected to The New 7 Wonders of the World campaign.

UNESCO criticizes The New 7 Wonders campaign because they said that it is "the result of a private undertaking, reflecting only the opinions of those with access to the internet and not the entire world." The UNESCO article goes on to say that "This initiative cannot, in any significant and sustainable manner, contribute to the preservation of sites elected by this public."

The campaign is a good tool to bring an increased awareness to the people of the world in order to promote preservation of all historical sites around the world. This list does not define what everyone, or even persons with experience with the topics covered, think are the most important sites of the world. As the UNESCO says, it reflects something that only people with internet access can express there support in and it is open also to corruption and abuse by people make multiple votes for certain sites and it cannot be counted as a true representation of the 7 best of the world. All sites should be preserved and this list does nothing at actually being better at preserving sites; it only brings out an increased awareness for people around the world.

Volunteer

2007-07-08T13:30:00.000-04:00

In a CNN.com article today, it said that the highest of volunteer's is in the midwest, with the Twin Cities leading the way (congrats to the 2.8 million plus people in the Twin Cities area). According to that article, "more than four in 10 adults volunteered" in the Minneapolis/St. Paul area. Las Vegas was the lowest, at just over 14%, out of the 50 cities which were included in the survey.

Volunteering does not take that much time; just a few hours even just once a month. In large cities with hundreds of thousands, and possibly millions, of people, just one hour per person can add up to many, many hours of work very quickly.

One vote counts in an election and one hour of volunteering counts as well. It can help others and the community and it shows the true spirit of America. People helping others when it is not even required.

MDP On Facebook

2007-06-27T18:20:00.001-04:00

Mark Brewer, chairman of the Michigan Democratic Party, has joined Facebook. If you have a facebook then friend him. His public profile can be found here.

Opinion On Richardson From The Capital Times

2007-06-24T18:56:00.000-04:00

From The Capital Times

Richardson deserves a better look

Dave Zweifel — 6/22/2007 9:43 am

Max Gaebler, who retired as the minister of Madison's First Unitarian Society back in 1987, stopped by last week to ask a question.

Why is it, he asked, that the national press acts like there are only three candidates for the Democratic nomination for president -- Hillary Clinton, Barack Obama and John Edwards?

Looking fit and trim and obviously as feisty as ever, Gaebler likes one of the five others who have formally announced their candidacies -- Gov. Bill Richardson of New Mexico.

Richardson, he said, is right there on the issues, just as much so if not more than the three who keep getting all the ink and air time, adding that Richardson's not afraid to speak out and has the experience that the others don't.

The New Mexico governor, of course, has been in Congress, was Bill Clinton's secretary of energy and ambassador to the United Nations, and as a longtime crisis negotiator he kept North Korea under control, something that the Bush administration has been struggling to do.

I agreed that Clinton, Obama and Edwards have been dominating the news and declared the "front-runners" by much of the national media. It's yet another example of what's wrong with the way the media cover politics in these modern times. Rather than comparing their stands on the issues, the media judge candidates by the amount of money they've amassed or the personality quirks they've exhibited or how well they've done in the latest poll, which are far from meaningful at a time when few voters even know who the candidates are.

Gaebler, who is approaching his 86th birthday, brandished a letter he received from Richardson after he wrote the governor earlier in the year.

In bold letters across the front of the envelope, just above the address, were these words: "The war in Iraq is not the disease. Iraq is a symptom. The disease is arrogance."

The letter inside spells out Richardson's stands that we need to get our troops out of Iraq this year if only to dispel the notion that so much of the world has that we're there only to exploit the country's oil reserves. We must start today to undo the damage that the Bush administration has caused, he adds.

Besides, Gaebler said, Richardson's a governor, and it's the governors who have been successful presidential candidates in modern times, not senators. (John F. Kennedy was the last sitting U.S. senator to win a presidential election -- 12 elections ago in 1960.)

Now if the media would just give Richardson his due, he might just succeed, too.

Dave Zweifel is editor of The Capital Times.

Gov. Bill Richardson: The Most Electable Candidate

2007-06-21T20:18:00.000-04:00

Bill Richardson is my choice for the Democratic nod for president in 2008. Why? He is a moderate and not as liberal on some issues as I am, but (and it is a big but) he has the most experience at all levels of government and he is strongly liked without a large group rallying against him, such as candidates Obama and Clinton do.

Gov. Richardson has been in Congress. Legislative experience check. Gov. Richardson has been an ambassador. International experience check. Gov. Richardson has been an energy secretary. Executive experience check. Gov. Richardson has been (of course) a governor of New Mexico. State experience check.

With international, national executive, national legislative and state experience he is the most prepared and qualified for the White House out of all the candidates.

He is also a moderate on many issue and not perceived as liberal as other candidates, such as Clinton, who many doubt can be elected for she seems to liberal for many voters.

Gov. Richardson also is pushing for full withdrawal from Iraq this year. According to Capitol Hill Blue, Gov, Richardson said at at a "Take Back America" conference that "I would leave zero troops. Not a single one. And if the embassy and our embassy personnel aren't safe, then they're all coming home too."

Other candidates running for the Democratic nod have no real date for withdrawing troops and are attempting to stay in the middle of the argument when it comes to Iraq. The other possible candidates say that the war is wrong and if they knew back at the time of the first vote to go to war what they do now they would not have voted in favor of going to Iraq. But the fact is they did and they must now live with that choice. But most do not push to withdraw (or any real change from current policy for that matter) to attempt to change course in Iraq. Gov. Richardson does and he is not standing down on this position, showing how he would act in the White House. The Democrats have been presented with a mandate by the American people, but they have yet to take action, action Gov. Richardson would take, showing the true weakness of the other candidates who are pandering to the ways of Washington.

The other choices for President are only doing what looks good. Gov. Bill Richardson is doing (and will continue to do) what is good.

The Iraq War

2007-06-19T18:13:00.000-04:00

Reasons for the Iraq War now total 21. But most are not believed by the populations of Europe and Canada and they should not be believed here. Below is a picture slideshow explaining the many reasons for the Iraq war. Watch and be informed!

(UPDATE: Video removed)

Update

2007-05-01T17:14:00.000-04:00

Updates to this blog will again start in mid-June. End of the school year can be full.

Richardson In 08

2007-04-18T09:03:00.000-04:00

At the recent MoveOn.org Virtual Town Hall meeting for the Democratic Presidential Candidates the issue of Iraq was discussed. Participating in the meeting were:

Sen. John Edwards

Sen. Joe Biden

Rep. Dennis Kucinich

Gov. Bill Richardson

Sen. Hillary Clinton

Sen. Chris Dodd

Sen. Barack Obama

MoveOn.org posted links to youtube.com "footage" of the virtual event and full transcripts of the event. I have to say that I am most impressed with Gov. Richardson's answers.

Mr. Richardson's position on Iraq is clear, which he emphasized again at the meeting; "...if I were President today, I would withdraw American troops by the end of this calendar year."

The following is one of the answers given by Gov. Richardson:

ELI PARISER: Thank you, Governor Richardson. Our next question for you is from MoveOn Member Dave Conlon, a Landlord from Carrollton, Virginia.

Dave Conlon: It appears that stopping the funding for the war is the only way to stop the war. Are you for or against stopping the funding and why?

GOVERNOR RICHARDSON: It’s the constitutional right of Congress to start a war and to stop a war. We have a President that is not listening, that has threatened to veto very clear legislative language that basically says this war must end, and there should be benchmarks, and there should be withdrawal timetables.

I am for a time table of withdrawal. I would be for a cut-off of appropriations. What I would do, however, is one step further: this Congress several years ago, the Republican Congress, authorized this war. I would pass a Congressional resolution, de-authorizing the war based on the War Powers Act. I served in Congress for 15 years. I believe this is the cleanest and quickest way to deal with this issue, otherwise we’re gonna be in endless debates, vetoes. I believe it’s important we proceed with cutting off funds and ending this war, but de-authorizing this war based on the War Powers Act, I believe, is the most important step.

In resolution de-authorizing the war, you have a clear timetable, I would prefer it this calendar year, but if March 2008 is what Congressional Democrats have come up with to get the most votes, so be it. But there would be benchmarks, there would be very clear timetable for withdrawal. I would not support anything beyond 2008 of March… I believe that is too long. There would not be a residual force.

What would then happen is the Bush administration would probably say, “We do not observe the War Powers Act.” The next step would then be to take this case to the US Supreme Court. I believe that is a clear, cleaner course and the thrust of the American people would be clear. The position of the American people would be clear, the Congress would be clear, and I believe it would be a 50/50 chance in the US Supreme court. I admire what Congress is doing… I think they need to be stronger, at the same time we have to look at how we can end this war as quickly as possible.

Shooter Of The VT Tragity IDed

2007-04-17T12:22:00.000-04:00

The Virginia Tech Police Department has confirmed the identification of the gunman responsible for the multiple fatalities at Norris Hall on the Virginia Tech campus Monday, April 16, 2007.

The individual has been identified as Cho Seung-Hui, 23. Cho was enrolled as an undergraduate student in his senior year as an English major at Virginia Tech. Cho, a South Korean native, was in the U.S. as a resident alien with a residence established in Centerville, Va. Cho was living on campus in Harper Residence Hall.

Virginia Tech

2007-04-16T19:28:00.000-04:00

My condolences go out to the community of VT and all those affected in anyway with this tragedy. This post is totally non-partisan.

Posted on the VT website:

Campus remains closed; convocation Tuesday at Cassell

04.16.2007, Updated 4:45 p.m.

Two shooting incidents on campus today have left 33 dead. Thirty-one, including the gunman, died at Norris Hall; two died at West Ambler Johnston Hall. Fifteen other victims from Norris are being treated at area hospitals.

The university is in the process of identifying victims and notifying next-of-kin. Names will not be released until that process is complete.

Counseling assistance for students is available at West Ambler Johnston and McComas halls until 9 p.m. tonight. Students are encouraged to utilize these services.

Counseling for faculty and staff is available in the Bowman Room on the fourth floor of Jamerson Athletic Center, accessible from Jamerson or the Merryman Athletic Facility.

The university will remain closed Tuesday. Essential personnel are to report for work. Classes are canceled.

A public gathering will be held Tuesday at Cassell Coliseum at 2 p.m.

All students are urged to contact their parents as soon as possible to let them know individuals are safe.

Students, faculty, and staff who have any information related to the incidents are encouraged to go to the Blacksburg Police Department to make statements, or call 540/231-TIPP (8477), or 231-6411.

[More information from Virginia Tech can be found here]

Iraq War Spending: Iraq And A Hard Place

2007-04-16T08:00:00.000-04:00

The Democratically Controlled House and Senate have passed bills funding the Iraq war with billions of dollars more, but at the same time giving a date for withdrawing troops from Iraq. This is a great decision by the Democrats, putting President Bush on the spot; either get funding now and withdraw by the end of 2008 or veto the bill and get no funding at all. It is totally President Bush's decision and Congress has already made there decision.

Senate Armed Services Committee's chairman Carl Levin (Michigan!) said that "We are very, very serious about what the American people said in November," Levin said, referring to the election that put Democrats in charge of Congress. "They want a change of course."

Veep Dick Cheney said that he is "willing to bet" that Democrats will back down. But this is President Bush waiting for the Democrats to act; but the fact is that the Democrats have already acted and the President is acting like they haven’t because he doesn't like the result. The only way that the Democrats will back down is if the President (or what it seems like, the king) compromises with Congress; for compromise is the key to any democracy. With the President betting on the Iraq war, and not doing anything with Congress, then Mr. Bush is the one not supporting the troops.

Support The Troops. Bring Them Home.

(UPDATE: CNN.com link broken)

If you walk like a duck, quack like a duck, and look like a duck… are you really a duck?

2007-04-15T20:35:00.000-04:00

In the wake of the Don Imus of CBS Radio and three Duke lacrosse players had there charges dismissed because of wrongful accusations, The Story from American Public Media talks with Jil who tells Dick Gordon how difficult it is to feel unaccepted in both communities. The story from Jil Williams can be found here, titled Fading Black.

Jil Williams' Essay

Jil Williams wrote this essay about having a light-skinned black family in a race-conscious society.

I grew up on the south side of Chicago in the late fifties, sixties, and early seventies. There were no drugs, gangs, or poverty in my neighborhood. My father was a doctor and my mother was a housewife. We lived on a quiet tree lined street of brick bungalows. I attended a Catholic grade school and an all girls' high school. I was sheltered, but sheltered from what? You see, I was black and all that I saw with the exception of nuns, priest, and grocery store owners were people black like me. Chemist, teachers, lawyers, doctors, butchers, policemen, the list goes on, were the fabric of our neighborhood. Perhaps I should qualify that by saying that black like me meant, frequently, a person of mixed race appearance. We were the last vestiges of mixed raced descendents of white slave masters. Of course, I was not aware of this at the time. We were not the norm, but we were certainly not an anomaly. I grew up thinking that all black people were middle class, Catholic, and not unusually, mixed looking. When I went away to college, I naturally gravitated to other students of color. Some occasionally teased me about my color and social class, but I never felt completely alienated by other blacks. White people were foreign to me. It was not so much their color, because many of my friends and family looked as white as them, but the sense of distance and aloofness. I was twelve before I realized that both of my next-door neighbors were black. I thought they were white because they acted much like the only whites I had ever encountered. They were decidedly cool, and distant to my siblings and me. I did not judge race by the color of your skin, rather, by a person's attitude or affect.

[con't here]

Stop Loss

2007-04-13T18:42:00.000-04:00

Stop loss is the US Military's way of keeping enlistees in the military after there tours and enlistment are over, TOTALLY OVER FOREVER, with the military bringing them back and redeploy them. This is a horrible way to conduct the military, and although it might increase the short term numbers, in the end, the threat of serving longer, by many years possibly, then a person signed up for, this will end is disaster in LESS people signing up to join the military and this policy should be ended, as well as the war which is straining are military resources.

A movie, currently in post production deals with this topic and the movie is called "Stop Loss".

Decorated Iraq war hero Sgt. Brandon King makes a celebrated return to his small Texas hometown following his tour of duty. Brandon tries to resume the life he left behind with the help and support of his loving family, and his best friend, Steve Shriver, who served with Brandon in Iraq. Alongside their war-time buddies, Brandon and Steve try to make peace with civilian life. Then, against Brandon’s will, under a measure called “Stop Loss,” the Army indefinitely extends Brandon’s enlistment and forces him back to Iraq. This upends Brandon’s entire world, and sends him to one of the only people he can trust: his childhood friend – and Steve’s fiancée – Michele. Michele becomes Brandon’s confidante and accomplice as he races across the U.S. – a fugitive from justice in the country he fought to protect – in search of a way out of his predicament.

Carl Levin On Stem Cells

2007-04-12T22:28:00.000-04:00

Again, sorry for the long delay in posting. Much is going on here at the end of my senior year.

From A Letter Sent Out To Sen. Carl Levin's Supporters Today

Dear Supporter,

The President's stem cell research policy blocks some of America's best scientists from pursuing the greatest hope for curing debilitating and dreaded diseases. Right now, we have the opportunity to change his mind.

Yesterday the Senate voted resoundingly to lift the President's burdensome restrictions on embryonic stem cell research because we should be helping our scientists, not hindering them.

Embryonic stem cell research is truly a life-giving process because of the extraordinary potential for healing living, breathing human beings with names, faces, and families. It could hold the key to curing diseases that no other research could cure, including Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease, Lou Gehrig's disease, juvenile diabetes, spinal cord injuries, and many others.

Supporters of stem cell research do not pretend these breakthroughs will be easy or inevitable. But the President's policy makes them far less likely.

Last year, the President used the first - and so far only - veto of his administration to reject this potentially life-giving research. Yesterday the Senate said: We will not give up until we remove the obstacles the President has put in the way of breakthrough cures.

The bill we passed yesterday will remove the President's arbitrary prohibition against using stem cells created after August 21, 2001 and will pave the way for hundreds or thousands of additional stem cell lines to be made available. I was proud to support this bill, and you can read my full remarks from the Senate floor here. The House of Representatives passed similar legislation earlier this year, and it will soon go to the President for his signature or his veto.

I am writing to the President to urge him to sign this bill. If you click here you can co-sign my letter to the President urging him to sign this vital stem cell legislation.

If the President does veto this bill again, please know that Congress will keep trying until we have a president who will sign it. We must not give up the fight for life-saving cures.

All the best,

Carl Levin

THE USA PATRIOT Act

2007-03-18T12:46:00.000-04:00

Learn About The USA PATRIOT Act: Blank Check, No Balance.

A Video From The ACLU About The USA PATRIOT Act

President Bush And His Approval

2007-03-16T07:42:00.000-04:00

Mr. Bush has yet to bring his ratings up saying well below 50%, a number of even a majority of Americans. In the most recent poll conducted by CNN (3/9-3/11) the presidents approval rating stands at 37%. In a CBS poll (3/7-3/11) Mr. Bush's approval rating stands at 34%. In each poll, his disapproval rating is over 50% and pushing 60%.

In a CBS poll (2/23-2/27) Mr. Bush had dropped to 29%.

Congress has an approval rating no better than our great president. In an AP-Ipsos poll (3/5-3/7) Congress stood at 33% approval and 63% disapproval. But the last time Congress was above 50% was February of 2002, with ratings going back to 1998 hovering around 50% with the ratings fluctuating between 40% and the mid-50% range.

Justice Department

2007-03-15T11:43:00.000-04:00

It has been over a month without posting and I again am starting to post again.

Well here we go, more ranting...

One of the most public happenings in DC recently is the firings of federal prosecutors, which many claim is politically motivated, including the fired prosecutors and US Senators.

"I'm surprised that they're saying that there's no politics involved, and we're still 2½ weeks away from April Fool's Day," said Sen. Patrick Leahy, D-New Hampshire, chairman of the Senate panel. "How can they possibly stand there with a straight face and say that's not politics? Of course it's politics."

If this is found to be purely politically motivated the Attorney General Alberto Gonzales must resign. It is as simple as that. If something which is not political, the justice system, is influenced solely by politics the American people and governmental officials must insure that politics is purged from this process. Justice is justice no matter what political party you belong to.

Subpoenas are one way to get the wanted outcome. Under oath, they will have no choice but to tell the truth. And as seen with the Libby trial, if they do commit purgery, then they will face jail and fines.

This is one area that SHOULD NOT be political and it SHOULD be right and just.

Governor Jennifer M. Granholm: State Of The State and The Budget

2007-02-11T13:15:00.000-05:00

The Governor recently gave her State of the State address [transcript can be found here]. She outlined many different options on different issues, mainly the economy in Michigan. As everyone knows the economy in Michigan has been struggling and the budget for Michigan has thus been hit hard as well. She also outlined educational goals and funding, as well as infrastructure projects.

One of her goals on the economic front is to diversify. Manufacturing is not the only way that Michigan should (or even can) support itself anymore. She knows that we must market the state of Michigan as a good place to move a company as well as supporting small businesses and entrepreneurship.

She also outlined the fact that we must always transform government to become more effective and become more efficient (which can save MONEY).

She also touched on the fact that we must have high quality for education and training for people within Michigan. With more education and job training, Gov. Granholm believes that we can help the economy by having more qualified workers to attract more businesses to Michigan.

She also talked about what many people around the country are talking about, affordable health care. This topic is not just exclusive to Michigan and everyone around the country is attempting to solve the problem of high health care costs. Gov. Granholm is proposing ways to assist persons within Michigan with this growing crisis, including universal access and promoting heath insurance for the under- and uninsured.

This is:
Our Moment, Our Choice: Investing in Michigan's People

Governor Granholm's 2008 Budget Invests in Michigan's People

State Budget Director Robert Emerson today presented Governor Jennifer M. Granholm's 2008 Executive Budget to a joint session of the Senate and House Appropriations Committees. The governor's budget combines spending reductions with governmental reforms and tax restructuring so that we can move Michigan forward by investing in our people.

Senator Carl Levin On Pre-War Activities

2007-02-09T11:46:00.000-05:00

In a statement by Sen. Carl Levin (D-MI), chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, he said that "These findings [referring to the IG report findings] of the Inspector General reinforce the conclusion that I reached in my report more than two years ago: the office of the Under Secretary of Defense for Policy generated its own intelligence analysis, inconsistent with the views of the Intelligence Community, in order to support the policy goals of the Administration." Sen. Levin went on to say that "The bottom line is that intelligence relating to the Iraq-al Qaeda relationship was manipulated by high ranking officials in the Department of Defense to support the Administration’s decision to invade Iraq..."

Clearly according to this report, pre-war intelligence WAS MANIPULATED!!! We must hold the people responsible for this manipulation. It was people working for the president, thus Mr. Bush must answer for what happened. Even if Mr. Bush was not the one who made up the intelligence connections, it was persons working for him who did the act and thus he is responsible for the actions. He used this information to invade a nation and cause thousands of American and tens of thousands of Iraqi deaths. Mr. Bush should have done more research on this topic. Most people would think that the White House would have all sides to an argument and know what was really going on, but clearly this was not the case and President Bush must be held accountable for this actions.

Hillary Prospects In Michigan For '08

2007-02-06T12:18:00.000-05:00

In a Detroit Free Press match up between Hillary Clinton and possible GOP candidates, Hillary pulls out ahead of all three of the most visible GOP candidates in a survey of Michigan voters.

Sen. Hillary Clinton 46% vs. Rudy Giuliani 42%

Sen. Hillary Clinton 49% vs. Mitt Romney 36%

Sen. Hillary Clinton 46% vs. John McCain 43%

As for Barack Obama he also fairs well in Michigan winning all three of the above matchups with GOP candidates.

Sen. Barack Obama 45% vs. Rudy Giuliani 38%

Sen. Barack Obama 49% vs. Mitt Romney 30%

Sen. Barack Obama 44% vs. John McCain 39%

It is many months away before the primary elections (let alone the general '08 election) and much might change in that time, but with these two STRONG Democratic candidates, the Democrats are far ahead of the GOP in the race for the White House.

THE Decider!

2007-01-31T15:05:00.001-05:00

"I would suggest respectfully to the President that he is not the sole decider."

— Senator Arlen Specter (R-PA)
during a Tuesday hearing on Congress's war powers

President Rating

2007-01-14T22:33:00.000-05:00

At the start of this year, Mr. Bush's ratings slumped, to as low as 30% in a poll by CBS, conducted 1/1-1/3. It is at 35% in a CNN, conducted on 1/11. With such low numbers the President will have a difficult time achieving his goals for this coming year including Iraq and the next budget which he will propose shortly. He must not only think what he wants to accomplish but what the AMERICAN PEOPLE want to accomplish. With compromise (the base of democracy) Mr. Bush will be able to get at least some of what he want done because with a Democratic Congress he WILL NOT GET EVERYTHING HE WANTS. No matter how much he tries some of what he wants won’t happen.

The First 100 Hours

2007-01-11T10:43:00.000-05:00

Well, so far so good...At least America hopes. The minimum wage increase that the United States House has passed is a great victory not just for Congress but also for the American people. This will help millions of minimum wage workers nation wide and states will have to take notice and adjust there levels. The vote was 315-116. The bill increases the minimum wage over 26 months to $7.25 through a three-step process. This is a needed in America as the last increase was in 1997, the longest that a hike has been held off.

But this victory is in risk in the Senate, as Republicans do not support increases in the minimum wage without tax cuts and without those provisions it could face a filibuster with only the needed 41 supporters of the filibuster. Last year, Republicans attempted to get passage of the bill to repeal the federal estate tax, worth $267 billion to only the highest estates, with attaching a minimum wage increase to it. Democrats didn't bite and now they have their chance to pass the minimum wage without giving tax breaks to THE WEATHLY. Whenever the Democrats want to help Americans, Republicans are always looking out for the rich and this CANNOT be tolerated.

(UPDATE: CNN.com link broken)

Speaker Of The House: Nancy Pelosi

2007-01-05T12:25:00.000-05:00

(UPDATE: Some photos do not load randomly; refresh and they will appear)

And There Off...

2007-01-04T14:37:00.000-05:00

Now the Democrats have control of Congress, I hope that politics will get a little more bearible. But what is to come is somewhat a mystry. No one really knows how this new Congress will work better then the Republicans over the past decade (or so). But I have to say congrations to Speaker Pelosi, on being elected the new Speaker of the House by a 233-202 vote. But with Congress so closly split between Democrats and Republicans, measures that the Democrats want to take will have to have at least some, if not a lot, of Republican support.

The first 100 hours will be, for lack of a better term, intreasting. President Bush warned against passing bills as purly "political statements", but many items on the Democrats agenda are important and needed items to be dissucssed. I just hope that Republicans are willing to talk on points that the Democats want, and I also hope that Democrats can comprimise and achieve bi-partisan support for different bills and "statements" that they want to make.

Second Thoughts on Gays in the Military

2007-01-03T19:44:00.000-05:00

In the opinion section of the New York Times yesterday, Op-Ed Contributor John M. Shalikashvili, who is "a retired army general, was chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff from 1993 to 1997" talked about the need to rethink the military policy of "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" (DADT). The following is an excerpt of his article:

"Two weeks ago, President Bush called for a long-term plan to increase the size of the armed forces. As our leaders consider various options for carrying out Mr. Bush’s vision, one issue likely to generate fierce debate is “don’t ask, don’t tell,” the policy that bars openly gay service members from the military. Indeed, leaders in the new Congress are planning to re-introduce a bill to repeal the policy next year.
...
The question before us now is whether enough time has gone by to give this policy serious reconsideration. Much evidence suggests that it has.
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Last year I held a number of meetings with gay soldiers and marines, including some with combat experience in Iraq, and an openly gay senior sailor who was serving effectively as a member of a nuclear submarine crew. These conversations showed me just how much the military has changed, and that gays and lesbians can be accepted by their peers.

This perception is supported by a new Zogby poll of more than 500 service members returning from Afghanistan and Iraq, three quarters of whom said they were comfortable interacting with gay people. And 24 foreign nations, including Israel, Britain and other allies in the fight against terrorism, let gays serve openly, with none reporting morale or recruitment problems..."

(UPDATE: New York Times article requires log-in)

Happy New Year

2007-01-01T00:52:00.000-05:00

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!

Well, 50 or so minutes late but it’s all the same. I hope that the New Year will bring better politics so that I may blog about productive government and good ethics of leaders. I also hope that this New Year will bring a better understanding of bipartisanship which is greatly needed from both sides of the isle. This two party system America has, only works when the two parties work together. If all the political parties do is undo what the other side has done, then our country will get nowhere. We must build a county together and unified, for united we stand, divided we fall.

Saddam Execution Video

2006-12-31T18:01:00.000-05:00

A video of Saddam's execution has been leaked online. It is believed to be from a witnesses' cell phone, which would account for the poor video quality. I will not post the video on this blog, but if you want to watch the video, it may be found on many websites across the Internet. This video has been reported on just today (Sunday). It shows the moments right prior to the execution and the act itself, followed by moments of blackness when the camera was panned down, then followed by a few shots of Saddam hanging.

Saddam has also been buried in the same cemeteray as his sons, Uday and Qusay, who were killed in 2003 during the US invasion of Iraq. According to CNN.com, "Salam Hassan al-Nasseri, one of Saddam's clansmen who attended the interment told The Associated Press" that "I condemn the way he was executed and I consider it a crime.".

Passing Of A President

2006-12-27T12:48:00.000-05:00

Americans are remembering former President Gerald Ford as a man who led the nation out of the dark days of the Watergate scandal. "Gerald Ford came along when we needed him most," said President Bush. Ford, 93, died Tuesday evening at his home in Rancho Mirage, California.

Although funeral arrangements have not been announced, U.S. Capitol Police officers said they were told to prepare for Ford's casket to come to Washington's Capitol Rotunda on Saturday, according to The Associated Press, and a service at the city's National Cathedral was expected Tuesday.

The Real News

2006-12-26T23:09:00.000-05:00

It has been awhile but it has been vacation so this is my start of blogging again right before the New Year.

This topic I have blogged about in the past but this is one of the biggest ideas to come by recently about the presentation of current events.

"The Real News is the flagship show of Independent World Television" and it "will launch as a daily world news hour in late 2007."

Major Themes Of The Real News Will Be:

The Real News starts with what we think are the major stories we will cover (as described in our business plan):

• The undermining of democracies, human rights, and international law
• The waging of illegal wars, occupations and terrorist attacks
• Impending irreversible environmental damage and the movement for solutions
• The intensification of the global struggle for control of oil
• The threat of nuclear, chemical, and biological weapons
• Millions suffering in poverty and the movement to find new models for development
• Deteriorating living standards and movements to defend working people's interests
• Inaction to stop the AIDS carnage in Africa and Asia and the work to find solutions
• Government and corporate corruption and the movement for accountability
• People with vision, models and policies for creating a better future

Bush Cites Body Count: Hello Vietnam

2006-12-18T09:36:00.000-05:00

"The White House on Thursday defended President George W. Bush's rare use of a body count to describe Iraqi insurgent deaths as a way to show Americans that U.S. troops are fighting hard in Iraq.

Bush said on Wednesday on a visit to the Pentagon that U.S. and Iraqi forces had killed or captured 5,900 of the enemy during the months of October, November and early December."

This shows that Mr. Bush is just a war oppressed President. His legacy is Iraq and Iraq alone and history will judge him on Iraq's success or failure. And so he is reduced to, for lack of a better term, taking pride in thousands of deaths. While trying to justify the Iraq war and hundreds of Americans killed, President Bush cited that in three months (October, November, December) 5,900 Iraqi's were killed/captured. This number should not show how successful we are but how unsuccessful we are. If we killed only a handful that might show that we actually have support of the Iraqi people and have authority over this civil war.

But a civil war is a civil war and as such no one really has total control, or other wise it would not be war. So a number close to 6,000 is not something that should be taken lightly; this number should show that America needs change, and with the Democratic control of Congress, hopefully a change soon.

(UPDATE: Reuters link broken)

Obama Vs. Osama: There Is A Difference

2006-12-14T22:27:00.001-05:00

The Case Against Rummy

2006-12-08T10:02:00.000-05:00

On March 1, 2005, Human Rights First, together with the American Civil Liberties Union, retired military leaders, and the law firm of Lieff Cabraser Heimann and Bernstein, LLP., filed a lawsuit against U.S. Defense Secretary Donald Rumsfeld on behalf of Iraqi and Afghan civilians who were tortured and abused while in U.S. custody.

Human Rights First and the American Civil Liberties Union will appear in the federal district court in Washington, DC on Friday, December 8, 2006, at 10 a.m., to argue that Secretary of Defense Donald Rumsfeld is responsible for the torture and abuse in U.S. military custody of nine Iraqi and Afghan former prisoners.

The Best Of Luck!

The Army Is At It Again

2006-12-06T09:36:00.000-05:00

Last year, Army recruiters were caught (on camera) lying to perspective recruits about the realities of the Army. The Army suspended recruiting across the nation in an attempt to re-train recruiters about practices and "improprieties". But ABC News is reporting that, after they conducted an undercover operation on Army recruiters, "Army recruiters [are] telling students that the war in Iraq was over, in an effort to get them to enlist". That same ABC News article went on to say that one recruiter said that "We're not at war. War ended a long time ago", with anther recruiter saying "No, we're bringing people back" when asked "Nobody is going over to Iraq anymore?" Other recruiters were caught saying that there is little chance that the perspective recruit would go to Iraq and another recruiter offering to help a perspective recruit cheat to get into the military when the student posed as a drug-addict. Change didn't happen last year and I guess we cannot expect any change soon. It is sad that the US military, a representation of America world wide, is reduced to lying and cheating to reach recruiting goals.