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CHECK US OUT AT: http://delawareliberal.wordpress.com/Friday, June 30, 2006
Around the Horn Friday
Phew...what a week. I'm headed to Delawareliberal's southern HQ for a few days of Corona drinking so light posting until the 5th. What are you guys up to?
Jaime Anne takes the reigns at Down With Absolutes. If history is any idicator, Nancy Willing to commence spaz attack in 5, 4, 3, 2....
Sebastian at First Slate has been rocking the bloghouse this week. All that blog talent and his editorial cartoons are better drawn than the News Journal's.
Andrew at Spivackforcongress is conserving his blogstength.
Dana at Delawarewatch says "Something remarkable happened in the US Supreme Court yesterday. Five justices determined that the USA does have to abide by treaties it has entered into. " What Dana fails to understand is that the President is the decider.
Ryan (yet to enlist) at JTTR provides the quote of the weak "Those arrested include five American citizens, one illegal alien from Haiti, and one resident alien.... BUILD THE @#$% FENCE!
Karmic Jay asks us to explore "Harmony". The idea is simple: do something creative around the word (poetry, stories, pictures, whatever) and post it on your blog tomorrow.
Donviti:This (SCOTUS decision) seems sensible. Pissed off Patricia: Of course it's sensible, and that's why the administration will continue to fight it.
Mahaffie says that his blog template was corrupted. I say, whatever happens in Lewes stays in Lewes.
If ESPN highlights are too much for you to sit through, Sporlitics provides a link to the best goal of the world cup.
Hube mentions the 1981 Israeli raid on Iraq's Osirak nuclear reactor. That's right. The same raid that convinced me that BushCo was full of it when they spoke of "the smoking gun being a mushroom cloud over an American city." Man, I hate being right so much.
Have a good (rest of the) week. Peace Out.
Jaime Anne takes the reigns at Down With Absolutes. If history is any idicator, Nancy Willing to commence spaz attack in 5, 4, 3, 2....
Sebastian at First Slate has been rocking the bloghouse this week. All that blog talent and his editorial cartoons are better drawn than the News Journal's.
Andrew at Spivackforcongress is conserving his blogstength.
Dana at Delawarewatch says "Something remarkable happened in the US Supreme Court yesterday. Five justices determined that the USA does have to abide by treaties it has entered into. " What Dana fails to understand is that the President is the decider.
Ryan (yet to enlist) at JTTR provides the quote of the weak "Those arrested include five American citizens, one illegal alien from Haiti, and one resident alien.... BUILD THE @#$% FENCE!
Karmic Jay asks us to explore "Harmony". The idea is simple: do something creative around the word (poetry, stories, pictures, whatever) and post it on your blog tomorrow.
Donviti:This (SCOTUS decision) seems sensible. Pissed off Patricia: Of course it's sensible, and that's why the administration will continue to fight it.
Mahaffie says that his blog template was corrupted. I say, whatever happens in Lewes stays in Lewes.
If ESPN highlights are too much for you to sit through, Sporlitics provides a link to the best goal of the world cup.
Hube mentions the 1981 Israeli raid on Iraq's Osirak nuclear reactor. That's right. The same raid that convinced me that BushCo was full of it when they spoke of "the smoking gun being a mushroom cloud over an American city." Man, I hate being right so much.
Have a good (rest of the) week. Peace Out.
On voting the ticket in the age of Rove
MOT Newbie asks...
Have you ever voted for a repub, or at least a non-dem?
Back in the old days I was a ticket splitter. I voted for Castle instead of Miller in 2000. I voted against Clinton and for Nader as a protest because Clinton basically lied to liberals about NAFTA and other issues. (I regret that one because I think his showing encouraged Nader to run against Gore in the following election.) I also voted for the Republican running against Marion Barry in the DC mayoral elections. That was after Barry was caught smoking crack, and served time in jail for it. Clinton and Barry were both re-elected despite my ticket splitting. God himself could not have prevented Castle from beating Miller.
If a republican is pretty much the same as the "second-coming" and has guaranteed through undeniable example that he/she will deliver everything that will be good for all, would you still vote for the opponent soley because my described candidate is a republican?
Right now I'd have to say that I would vote for the Democrat. Here is why. The "good" republicans need to know that they screwed up. They need to know that I'm not just angry at Bush and Rove, but I'm also angry at the Castle's, Wharton's and Ting's of the world who tagged along for the ride. I'll give you an example. You know that picture of Ting with the hat on. WTF? Why was he dancing and that convention. If he is a "good" republican he should have been doing anything other than dancing. Why is Wharton still a Republican if he is so ethical? Just being a Republican today speaks volumes about what kind of person you are in the age of Rove.
The good republicans seem like they are starting to wake up, and that is a good thing. However, people who voted for Bush TWICE have a lot of work to do before I ever consider voting for another Republican.
Have you ever voted for a repub, or at least a non-dem?
Back in the old days I was a ticket splitter. I voted for Castle instead of Miller in 2000. I voted against Clinton and for Nader as a protest because Clinton basically lied to liberals about NAFTA and other issues. (I regret that one because I think his showing encouraged Nader to run against Gore in the following election.) I also voted for the Republican running against Marion Barry in the DC mayoral elections. That was after Barry was caught smoking crack, and served time in jail for it. Clinton and Barry were both re-elected despite my ticket splitting. God himself could not have prevented Castle from beating Miller.
If a republican is pretty much the same as the "second-coming" and has guaranteed through undeniable example that he/she will deliver everything that will be good for all, would you still vote for the opponent soley because my described candidate is a republican?
Right now I'd have to say that I would vote for the Democrat. Here is why. The "good" republicans need to know that they screwed up. They need to know that I'm not just angry at Bush and Rove, but I'm also angry at the Castle's, Wharton's and Ting's of the world who tagged along for the ride. I'll give you an example. You know that picture of Ting with the hat on. WTF? Why was he dancing and that convention. If he is a "good" republican he should have been doing anything other than dancing. Why is Wharton still a Republican if he is so ethical? Just being a Republican today speaks volumes about what kind of person you are in the age of Rove.
The good republicans seem like they are starting to wake up, and that is a good thing. However, people who voted for Bush TWICE have a lot of work to do before I ever consider voting for another Republican.
Thursday, June 29, 2006
SB 362 - A closer look
Anon writes:
Just skimmed through SB 362. Arghh!! I haven't really compared it to the old law but so far I see the bill:
1. Removes your right to a lawyer. That's right:
all private contracts between an attorney and an employee...are against public policy and void.
I suppose employers can still hire squadrons of lawyers to try to squash your claim.
I wonder if this workers comp bill is the quid pro quo for the minimum wage bill. That would explain RAM's sudden and uncharacteristic burst of zeal to get it done now.
2. Imposes HMO-style utilization review (i.e., DOL will be making medical decisions, not your doctor):
[DOL] shall adopt...a coordinated set of medical practice guidelines and associated regulations and procedures to guide utilization of medical treatments in workers’ compensation... prescription drug utilization, inpatient hospitalization and length of stay, diagnostic testing, physical therapy, chiropractic care and palliative care.
3. Certification requirement implements a two-level certification for for health care providers.
- If the provider doesn't have Cert Level 1, injured workers have to get pre-authorized.
- If you don't have Cert Level 2, you aren't permitted to rate the severity of the workers disability and you can't testify to IAB or OWC (Office of Workers Comp).
Truthfully, I don't completely understand the impact of these certifications but, since DOL doles them out according to hazy criteria, there seems to be a lot of opportunity for mischief and favoritism, and I suspect it is designed to grandfather in certain large existing practices in Delaware. It smells like a deal.
All in all this bill looks like a hit on Delaware's workers. When the claim is made that Delaware has high workers comp costs, that's because workers are well-protected in Delaware and are receiving what's due to them. Currently workers can file a workers comp case WITH A LAWYER who will follow the case and make sure the worker gets what he or she is owed. This assistance is necessary because injuries can play out over an entire lifetime, and employers will never cease to find new ways to cut you off. Therfore an attorney's assistance is essential to protect your rights, especially at a time when you may be broke, sick/hurt, or both.
That's all for now, just from a first reading.
I'll have to see if Robert Aurbach wants to respond. I know from his comments on the show that he feels that the bill ensures that the savings gleaned from cutting lawyers out of the loop will acrue to workers.
Just skimmed through SB 362. Arghh!! I haven't really compared it to the old law but so far I see the bill:
1. Removes your right to a lawyer. That's right:
all private contracts between an attorney and an employee...are against public policy and void.
I suppose employers can still hire squadrons of lawyers to try to squash your claim.
I wonder if this workers comp bill is the quid pro quo for the minimum wage bill. That would explain RAM's sudden and uncharacteristic burst of zeal to get it done now.
2. Imposes HMO-style utilization review (i.e., DOL will be making medical decisions, not your doctor):
[DOL] shall adopt...a coordinated set of medical practice guidelines and associated regulations and procedures to guide utilization of medical treatments in workers’ compensation... prescription drug utilization, inpatient hospitalization and length of stay, diagnostic testing, physical therapy, chiropractic care and palliative care.
3. Certification requirement implements a two-level certification for for health care providers.
- If the provider doesn't have Cert Level 1, injured workers have to get pre-authorized.
- If you don't have Cert Level 2, you aren't permitted to rate the severity of the workers disability and you can't testify to IAB or OWC (Office of Workers Comp).
Truthfully, I don't completely understand the impact of these certifications but, since DOL doles them out according to hazy criteria, there seems to be a lot of opportunity for mischief and favoritism, and I suspect it is designed to grandfather in certain large existing practices in Delaware. It smells like a deal.
All in all this bill looks like a hit on Delaware's workers. When the claim is made that Delaware has high workers comp costs, that's because workers are well-protected in Delaware and are receiving what's due to them. Currently workers can file a workers comp case WITH A LAWYER who will follow the case and make sure the worker gets what he or she is owed. This assistance is necessary because injuries can play out over an entire lifetime, and employers will never cease to find new ways to cut you off. Therfore an attorney's assistance is essential to protect your rights, especially at a time when you may be broke, sick/hurt, or both.
That's all for now, just from a first reading.
I'll have to see if Robert Aurbach wants to respond. I know from his comments on the show that he feels that the bill ensures that the savings gleaned from cutting lawyers out of the loop will acrue to workers.
War what war? What I want to know is who loves the flag ?
Ting: "I will provide the 67th vote in the U.S. Senate (on RNC's bogus flag amendments)."
Carper: "... as much as I love our flag, I love our Constitution even more."
The moral of the story is that Ting loves the flag more than he loves the constitution. (Typical Republican)
- Via Delaware Grapevine
Carper: "... as much as I love our flag, I love our Constitution even more."
The moral of the story is that Ting loves the flag more than he loves the constitution. (Typical Republican)
- Via Delaware Grapevine
Anti-Castle / Pro-truth You Tube Ad
Whoever you are Matt000013 - you are my new hero.
h/t First Slate
Welcome Karmic Jay and Can Spivack Win?
Q: I met Dennis Spivack briefly at yesterdays Moveon event in Wilmington. Did a google search and found your blog. Does Spivack have a good chance to beat Castle?
A: Spivack is a long shot, but he can make it close and maybe win if these two things happen. 1) Bush must continue to suck. (check)
2) Michael Newbold Castle must be tied to Bush everyday.
Dems enjoy the registration advantage here in delaware and while there have been a great many ticket splitting dems when it came to Castle in the past - Rove has put an end to that kind of politics.
If Spivack can break into the news throwing some scorn on Bush/Castle on an ongoing basis, he has a real shot. Right now I put him at about 45% vs. Castle and continue to hope for him to find his voice.
PS To The Spivack Campaign: Maybe you are calling Castle out on his votes on press releases to the NJ and Delaware State News and they are not running them. If so let me know, and by the way - I'd run them.
A: Spivack is a long shot, but he can make it close and maybe win if these two things happen. 1) Bush must continue to suck. (check)
2) Michael Newbold Castle must be tied to Bush everyday.
Dems enjoy the registration advantage here in delaware and while there have been a great many ticket splitting dems when it came to Castle in the past - Rove has put an end to that kind of politics.
If Spivack can break into the news throwing some scorn on Bush/Castle on an ongoing basis, he has a real shot. Right now I put him at about 45% vs. Castle and continue to hope for him to find his voice.
PS To The Spivack Campaign: Maybe you are calling Castle out on his votes on press releases to the NJ and Delaware State News and they are not running them. If so let me know, and by the way - I'd run them.
Suffer the Children
I can't get into all of this "inside the delawareblogosphere" stuff and why should I when First Slate has it covered.
My only comment: I love this picture of Ryan "Yet to Enlist" Silberstein playing "dress-up".
My only comment: I love this picture of Ryan "Yet to Enlist" Silberstein playing "dress-up".
Wednesday, June 28, 2006
Delawareliberal on WILM 1450 AM
I'm going to be on Dace Blaskovitz's new show on WILM "Money & Politics Delaware" at 3:30. It is looking like it is going to be a regular gig. Today we are going to be talking about blogging, so you can bet I'm going to be talking about your blog.
Be sure to listen in so you can snark on how much I sucked.
UPDATE II I got preempted by Robert Aurbach who is working with Ruth Ann to get our crappy worker's comp system updated.
"Senate Bill 362 is a comprehensive reform of the current system of workers’ compensation in Delaware. This reform will address the high workers’ compensation premiums paid by business owners (Delaware has the 7th highest in the nation) while still protecting and rehabilitating injured workers."
It was some eye opening stuff, and if it passes it sounds like trial lawers will be taking one on the chin. It all goes to show that Democrats (even RAM with all her faults) have better ideas and are more interested in solving problems than the Republicans.
Tuesday, June 27, 2006
I guess Carper voted for burning the flag...
based on this comment over at MYDD
(Carper's vote) is one of the only reasons Sen. Carper has my vote.
Being he voted for:
-Medicare part D 55-45
-Cloture on Alito
-Bankruptcy Bill however that's worth a lot of campaign cash from bankruptcy lawyers and credit card companies.
Anyway he just got my vote in the general. While a primary is unlikely and career sucside for almost any politician in DE. Also we democrats still have 4 seats that don't have anyone running. 2 New Castle County Council, 1 that of State Majority Leader Smith whom I would love to work against and Corrupt and Incompetent State Auditor Tom Wagner.
Anyway Sen. Tom Carper just earned my vote.
I guess Ting now gets to talk about how Carper hates America and Crossan can put up a website with Carper's head photshopped onto a Calvin sticker with a stream of urine...
Well, you get the idea.
(Carper's vote) is one of the only reasons Sen. Carper has my vote.
Being he voted for:
-Medicare part D 55-45
-Cloture on Alito
-Bankruptcy Bill however that's worth a lot of campaign cash from bankruptcy lawyers and credit card companies.
Anyway he just got my vote in the general. While a primary is unlikely and career sucside for almost any politician in DE. Also we democrats still have 4 seats that don't have anyone running. 2 New Castle County Council, 1 that of State Majority Leader Smith whom I would love to work against and Corrupt and Incompetent State Auditor Tom Wagner.
Anyway Sen. Tom Carper just earned my vote.
I guess Ting now gets to talk about how Carper hates America and Crossan can put up a website with Carper's head photshopped onto a Calvin sticker with a stream of urine...
Well, you get the idea.
The lone black DE GOPer makes it onto the Colbert Report
Jennifer Brooks has the back story:
The comedian and ersatz conservative pundit has launched a nationwide campaign to find a "new black friend" to replace his former friend, Allan, who was spotted at an anti-war protest.
"It's one thing to express your views. It's another thing for those views to differ from mine," said a disappointed Colbert.
Offers of friendship have been pouring in, including this one:
"In third grade gym class I made it my personal crusade to throw as many balls as I could at Sen. Joe Biden's daughter," one anonymous candidate wrote this week.
"Bravo, sir," Colbert replied.
If anyone can identify the dodgeballer, the clip is available online at: Comedy Central Click on "Search for a new black friend" on the second page.
This should be a snap to figure out. In every DE GOP photo gallery there is always a picture of the same black guy. Be the first to ID him and win a copy of The Indispensable Noam Chomsky.
The comedian and ersatz conservative pundit has launched a nationwide campaign to find a "new black friend" to replace his former friend, Allan, who was spotted at an anti-war protest.
"It's one thing to express your views. It's another thing for those views to differ from mine," said a disappointed Colbert.
Offers of friendship have been pouring in, including this one:
"In third grade gym class I made it my personal crusade to throw as many balls as I could at Sen. Joe Biden's daughter," one anonymous candidate wrote this week.
"Bravo, sir," Colbert replied.
If anyone can identify the dodgeballer, the clip is available online at: Comedy Central Click on "Search for a new black friend" on the second page.
This should be a snap to figure out. In every DE GOP photo gallery there is always a picture of the same black guy. Be the first to ID him and win a copy of The Indispensable Noam Chomsky.
China's Central Bank: Countries should rely less on dollar
Years from now, when your grandchild asks, "When did the United States become a second rate power?" you can relply, "It started when Bush was elected, but it became official on June 27, 2006"
BEIJING (Reuters) - Countries around the world should gradually rely less on the dollar for trade and their foreign exchange reserves, a Chinese central bank official said in comments that pushed the dollar down against the yen.
Analysts say China has been gradually diversifying away from dollar assets in its foreign exchange reserves, the world's largest, but fears of a collapse in the U.S. currency will prevent it from making any dramatic shift.
"Internationally speaking, the situation of over-reliance on a certain country's currency for international trade, settlements and reserve assets should be gradually changed," Wu Xiaoling, deputy governor of the People's Bank of China, said in remarks reported by the official Financial News on Tuesday.
BEIJING (Reuters) - Countries around the world should gradually rely less on the dollar for trade and their foreign exchange reserves, a Chinese central bank official said in comments that pushed the dollar down against the yen.
Analysts say China has been gradually diversifying away from dollar assets in its foreign exchange reserves, the world's largest, but fears of a collapse in the U.S. currency will prevent it from making any dramatic shift.
"Internationally speaking, the situation of over-reliance on a certain country's currency for international trade, settlements and reserve assets should be gradually changed," Wu Xiaoling, deputy governor of the People's Bank of China, said in remarks reported by the official Financial News on Tuesday.
Monday, June 26, 2006
Limbaugh "Detained"
(CBS4 News) WEST PALM BEACH
Sources have confirmed to CBS4 News that conservative talk show host Rush Limbaugh has been detained at Palm Beach International Airport for the possible possession of illegal prescription drugs Monday evening.
Limbaugh was returning on a flight from the Dominican Republic when officials found the drugs, among them Viagra.
Limbaugh entered a plea deal back in April in a previous case where his charge of fraud to conceal information to obtain prescriptions was dropped under the condition he continue undergoing treatment for addiction.
Limbaugh had admitted to being addicted to pain killers on his radio program and had entered a rehabilitation program prior to that arrest.
UPDATE What a jerk. He waas trying to cover up the fact that he can't get it up, but having his doctor hand over the viagra without a prescription.
"We believe there may be a second degree misdemeanor violation, which is possession of certain drugs without a prescription, because the bottle does not have his name on it," Miller said.
A doctor had prescribed the drug, but it was "labeled as being issued to the physician rather than Mr. Limbaugh for privacy purposes," Roy Black, Limbaugh's attorney, said in a statement.
The "stabbed in the back" mythology takes firm hold in the GOP
Have you heard the news? We'd be winning in Iraq if not for those liberal traitors in the press. That's right, President Bush today called the New York Times story revealing the administration’s monitoring of bank records “disgraceful,” and said the decision to publish details of the program “does great harm to the United States of America.”
According to Think Progress, Press Secretary Tony Snow followed up with another attack at today’s press briefing:
Tony Snow: "[T]he New York Times and other news organizations ought to think long and hard about whether a public’s right to know in some cases might override somebody’s right to live, and whether in fact the publications of these could place in jeopardy the safety of fellow Americans"
Asked whether the White House attacks on the New York Times represented an effort “to create a chilling effect on media outlets,” Snow responded, “I don’t think so.”
-----------------------------
The Bottom Line: Our troops ARE being stabbed in the back. They are being stabbed in the back by the mismanegment, corruption and perfidy of Bush, Cheney and Rumsfeld.
h/t Down w/absolutes
I (HEART) NED LAMONT
Lamont proves that the democratic party is reformable. He still has an uphill fight against the most vile scum this side of Texas, but he has a new ad up that scores points with me.
I like how Lieberman morphs into Bush and I like that new twist on the closing:
Lamont: I'm Ned Lamont and I approve this message.
A Large Group of Lamont Supporters: SO DO WE!!
The kiss of death
TIME Magazine - Connecticut party officials were particularly incensed when President Bush kissed Lieberman on the cheek following his 2005 State of the Union address. In meetings with state Dems, Lieberman tried to assuage their concerns, but also kept reminding party officials he had a 70% approval rating. Even so, the attacks on the kiss became so vocal that an exasperated Lieberman told one group of Democrats "I didn't kiss him back," a response that didn't exactly hearten them. (The incident has become so radioactive that Lieberman now denies Bush actually kissed him, telling TIME last week "I don't think he kissed me, he leaned over and gave me a hug and said 'thank you for being a patriotic American.'")
Now here is the thing. Castle is not as close to Bush as Lieberman, they have never kissed anyway. But Castle's voting record is close enough to Bush that someone should be hitting him over the head with it EVERYDAY. Someone should be putting Bush and Castle together in the voters mind EVERYDAY.
Someone.... (clears throat)...like maybe someone who is running against Castle. Hello..... is this thing on?
UPDATE
I just flubbed this Biden quote on Al's show:
DICK CHENEY, VICE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES: The worst possible thing we could do is what the Democrats are suggesting, and no matter how you carve it, you can call it anything you want, but basically, it is packing it in, going home, persuading and convincing and validating the theory that the Americans don't have the stomach for this fight.
BLITZER: All right. You want to respond to the vice president, Senator Biden?
BIDEN: No, I don't want to respond to him. He's at 20 percent in the polls. No one listens to him. He has no credibility. It's ridiculous.
Sunday, June 25, 2006
Does anyone feel safer...?
Call me jaded, but I'm skeptical about the arrest of the Bible study group in Miami. It turns out, I'm not the only one.
We have this from anon in the comments over at "JTTR"
Initial reports had the reportedly Islamic "terrorists" with Jamaican accents, studying the Bible, (the BIBLE?), practicing martial arts in a rented warehouse... if these are terrorists, we have nothing to fear; they have learned nothing.
This takedown comes at an awfully convenient time for the Bush administration. And it sure looks like these guys were led on by FBI/DHS provocateurs.
(Click here to read Ryan's original post if you want a giggle. Spoiler alert: He thinks the Miami story proves that we should build a wall between the US and Hati. )
But what does some anon commenter know anyway? What I'd like to know is what terrorism specialists thinks about this?
Larry Johnson Says:
Before you join the media horde trumpeting the arrests of alleged members of a fledgling Al Qaeda cell in Miami, a couple of notes of caution. Initial reports are usually wrong and hyped. Remember the arrest of the Army muslim chaplain:
WASHINGTON (CNN) -- A Muslim chaplain in the U.S. Army has been arrested and is being investigated on suspicion of espionage and possibly treason, officials familiar with the case told CNN. Army Capt. James Yee was taken into custody by U.S. military authorities September 10 at the naval air station in Jacksonville, Florida, while in possession of classified documents "that a chaplain shouldn't have," an official told CNN, speaking on the condition of anonymity.
Turns out Yee was innocent.
Remember the false arrest of an Oregon lawyer, a muslim and former Army officer?
Remember Richard Jewell, falsely accused for the Atlanta Olympic Park bombing?
Caution is the watch word. The good news is that law enforcement had penetrated this group. This calls into question the Administration's insistence that you can't fight terrorism as a law enforcement matter.
Larry Johnson is the Managing Partner and founder of BERG Associates, LLC, an international business-consulting firm based in Washington, D.C. BERG that specializes in counter terrorism and money laundering investigations. Prior to forming BERG, Mr. Johnson worked with the Central Intelligence Agency (1985-1989) and the Department of State's Office of the Coordinator for Counter Terrorsim (1989-1993).
TPM Cafe
Does anybody really believe anything that this administration says anymore? Shouldn't we all be a bit more like Joe Biden when it comes to listening to "news" out of BushCo?
We have this from anon in the comments over at "JTTR"
Initial reports had the reportedly Islamic "terrorists" with Jamaican accents, studying the Bible, (the BIBLE?), practicing martial arts in a rented warehouse... if these are terrorists, we have nothing to fear; they have learned nothing.
This takedown comes at an awfully convenient time for the Bush administration. And it sure looks like these guys were led on by FBI/DHS provocateurs.
(Click here to read Ryan's original post if you want a giggle. Spoiler alert: He thinks the Miami story proves that we should build a wall between the US and Hati. )
But what does some anon commenter know anyway? What I'd like to know is what terrorism specialists thinks about this?
Larry Johnson Says:
Before you join the media horde trumpeting the arrests of alleged members of a fledgling Al Qaeda cell in Miami, a couple of notes of caution. Initial reports are usually wrong and hyped. Remember the arrest of the Army muslim chaplain:
WASHINGTON (CNN) -- A Muslim chaplain in the U.S. Army has been arrested and is being investigated on suspicion of espionage and possibly treason, officials familiar with the case told CNN. Army Capt. James Yee was taken into custody by U.S. military authorities September 10 at the naval air station in Jacksonville, Florida, while in possession of classified documents "that a chaplain shouldn't have," an official told CNN, speaking on the condition of anonymity.
Turns out Yee was innocent.
Remember the false arrest of an Oregon lawyer, a muslim and former Army officer?
Remember Richard Jewell, falsely accused for the Atlanta Olympic Park bombing?
Caution is the watch word. The good news is that law enforcement had penetrated this group. This calls into question the Administration's insistence that you can't fight terrorism as a law enforcement matter.
Larry Johnson is the Managing Partner and founder of BERG Associates, LLC, an international business-consulting firm based in Washington, D.C. BERG that specializes in counter terrorism and money laundering investigations. Prior to forming BERG, Mr. Johnson worked with the Central Intelligence Agency (1985-1989) and the Department of State's Office of the Coordinator for Counter Terrorsim (1989-1993).
TPM Cafe
Does anybody really believe anything that this administration says anymore? Shouldn't we all be a bit more like Joe Biden when it comes to listening to "news" out of BushCo?
Friday, June 23, 2006
Costa Rica to Bush: Pare mentir acerca de nosotros.
Viva Costa Rica! Costa Rica wants the US to stop impugning their national character by continuing to repeat the lie that they support Bush's vanity war on Iraq.
SAN JOSE, Costa Rica -- Costa Rica wants its name erased from the list of countries supporting the invasion of Iraq. But the United States says that's not possible.
HB 10 Question
I have a question for the I's and GP's who are so fired up about protecting their right to cheat.
If I'm planning on challenging the Rep in my district who happens to be an R - what would stop me from gaming the system by running against him/her in a primary as an Independent and then again in the general election as a Dem?
If I'm planning on challenging the Rep in my district who happens to be an R - what would stop me from gaming the system by running against him/her in a primary as an Independent and then again in the general election as a Dem?
We are never leaving Iraq
Okay. The Republican plan is "as the Iraqis stand up, we'll stand down." Ignore the fact that that is a slogan and not a plan and now try to make sense of what Dick Cheney said yesterday:
"If we pull out, [the terrorists in Iraq] will follow us. It doesn't matter where we go. ... And it will continue---whether we complete the job or not in Iraq---only it'll get worse. Iraq will become a safe haven for terrorists."
Whether we complete the job or not - we will be leaving Iraq to terrorists. So we must staty in Iraq forever.
Please note that Michael Castle thinks that George Bush and Dick Cheney are doing a great job.
UPDATE:
"To all the Republicans who sit in their air-conditioned offices and talk of the courage it takes for them to keep young kids in harm's way - I say enough. Karl Rove talking about "cutting and running" while he sits on his big, fat backside-saying "stay the course." I say enough! That's not a plan! We've got to have a new direction, and it's clear we need more Democrats in Congress to get that done. " Rep. John Murtha
"If we pull out, [the terrorists in Iraq] will follow us. It doesn't matter where we go. ... And it will continue---whether we complete the job or not in Iraq---only it'll get worse. Iraq will become a safe haven for terrorists."
Whether we complete the job or not - we will be leaving Iraq to terrorists. So we must staty in Iraq forever.
Please note that Michael Castle thinks that George Bush and Dick Cheney are doing a great job.
UPDATE:
"To all the Republicans who sit in their air-conditioned offices and talk of the courage it takes for them to keep young kids in harm's way - I say enough. Karl Rove talking about "cutting and running" while he sits on his big, fat backside-saying "stay the course." I say enough! That's not a plan! We've got to have a new direction, and it's clear we need more Democrats in Congress to get that done. " Rep. John Murtha
Thursday, June 22, 2006
Coulter: If Murtha "did get fragged, he'd finally deserve one of those Purple Hearts"
I hate to blog about that Ann Coulter, but I have to ask - what ever happened to the sane conservatives? Where are the conservatives with the dignity and bearing to call her out on this?
Media Matters: Ann Coulter refused to explain -- and even expanded upon -- her recent claim that Rep. John P. Murtha is "the reason soldiers invented fragging," military slang meaning the intentional killing of a member of one's own unit. On a Denver radio show, Coulter referred to her fragging comment as one of her "best lines" and refused to confirm that she was not "suggesting that anybody should off John Murtha," stating only: "It is what it is." On Fox News' Hannity & Colmes, Coulter further expanded upon her statement, asserting that if Murtha "did get fragged, he'd finally deserve one of those Purple Hearts."
Mr Castle....anything...? Anything?
Media Matters: Ann Coulter refused to explain -- and even expanded upon -- her recent claim that Rep. John P. Murtha is "the reason soldiers invented fragging," military slang meaning the intentional killing of a member of one's own unit. On a Denver radio show, Coulter referred to her fragging comment as one of her "best lines" and refused to confirm that she was not "suggesting that anybody should off John Murtha," stating only: "It is what it is." On Fox News' Hannity & Colmes, Coulter further expanded upon her statement, asserting that if Murtha "did get fragged, he'd finally deserve one of those Purple Hearts."
Mr Castle....anything...? Anything?
The war is over, and we won!
That's right. We kicked ass. Crank up the Toby Keith music, and pop open a beer. We attacked a fourth rate army that could not wait to quit and basically bombed the crap out of everything that remotely resembled something defensive in nature.
We found that bad man, and pulled his statue down on TV. We won. President Bush was right. The mission was accomplished.
So why is it odd that Democrats are not unified on THE WAR. Why should they be, the war is over.
We are into the occupation - and no matter what anyone thinks about THE WAR I think we call all agree that the occupation is something that was immoral from the moment it started.
The occupation is un-American. It is forcing our will on others through our military. Who wins in that situation ? Nobody.
If you are looking for Democratic unity, we should all start by calling this what it is. An occupation
UPDATE: Democrats can and will win the Iraq debate if they embrace the fact that they disagree and contrast it with the slavish, mindless rubber-stamp Republicans.
The only place in the American government where there is an honest and spirited debate over Iraq is within the Democratic Party. Nancy Pelosi and Steny Hoyer are not on the same page - and that's a good thing. Hillary Clinton and John Kerry disagree. Hooray for that.... At least someone is debating what to do.
The fact is the American people want a new direction in Iraq, and the Democrats offer several. The Republicans, on the other hand, offer nothing more than a four-word strategy: more of the same.
We found that bad man, and pulled his statue down on TV. We won. President Bush was right. The mission was accomplished.
So why is it odd that Democrats are not unified on THE WAR. Why should they be, the war is over.
We are into the occupation - and no matter what anyone thinks about THE WAR I think we call all agree that the occupation is something that was immoral from the moment it started.
The occupation is un-American. It is forcing our will on others through our military. Who wins in that situation ? Nobody.
If you are looking for Democratic unity, we should all start by calling this what it is. An occupation
UPDATE: Democrats can and will win the Iraq debate if they embrace the fact that they disagree and contrast it with the slavish, mindless rubber-stamp Republicans.
The only place in the American government where there is an honest and spirited debate over Iraq is within the Democratic Party. Nancy Pelosi and Steny Hoyer are not on the same page - and that's a good thing. Hillary Clinton and John Kerry disagree. Hooray for that.... At least someone is debating what to do.
The fact is the American people want a new direction in Iraq, and the Democrats offer several. The Republicans, on the other hand, offer nothing more than a four-word strategy: more of the same.
Uncle Sam Wants Me !
UPDATE: Welcome WDEL listeners. Here is the debunking of the recent Iraq WMD story Al mentioned. Think Progress
------------------------------
Wow! The war in Iraq must be going great. So great, in fact, that the Army is now looking for 42 year olds to sign up.
WASHINGTON (Reuters)
The U.S. Army, aiming to make its recruiting goals amid the Iraq war, raised its maximum enlistment age by another two years on Wednesday, while the Army Reserve predicted it will miss its recruiting target for a second straight year.
People can now volunteer to serve in the active-duty Army or the part-time Army Reserve and National Guard up to their 42nd birthday after the move aimed at increasing the number of people eligible to sign up, officials said.
It marked the second time this year the Army has boosted the maximum age for new volunteers, raising the ceiling from age 35 to 40 in January before now adding two more years.
------------------------------
Wow! The war in Iraq must be going great. So great, in fact, that the Army is now looking for 42 year olds to sign up.
WASHINGTON (Reuters)
The U.S. Army, aiming to make its recruiting goals amid the Iraq war, raised its maximum enlistment age by another two years on Wednesday, while the Army Reserve predicted it will miss its recruiting target for a second straight year.
People can now volunteer to serve in the active-duty Army or the part-time Army Reserve and National Guard up to their 42nd birthday after the move aimed at increasing the number of people eligible to sign up, officials said.
It marked the second time this year the Army has boosted the maximum age for new volunteers, raising the ceiling from age 35 to 40 in January before now adding two more years.
Wednesday, June 21, 2006
The Ferris Follies
It is driving the DE GOP (and Dana Garrett) insane that Ferris Wharton is going to have his ass handed to him by Beau Biden.
They keep shouting "experience" and a new video have a slick web site - but the Wharton/Crossan screw-ups just keep comming. Today we learn that Wharton's campaign will pay $100 in fines -- or $25 for each of four signs -- placed too close to the roadway along Shipley Road, Foulk Road, Marsh Road and Silverside Road, all in Brandywine Hundred in northern New Castle County.
As Celia Cohen puts it:
On the day Ferris W. Wharton premiered a video promoting his experience as a criminal prosecutor, his campaign acknowledged it has run a bit afoul of the civil side of the law.(snip)
As violations go, this one probably competes for severity with overstaying at a parking meter, but it is a more noteworthy blemish for a candidate running on his mastery of the law. In fact, the new video on Wharton's Web site at FerrisWharton.com is titled "Accomplished."
As far as Biden supporters go, Crossan has to be (intentional) at the top of the list. Not only does he continue to attack Wharotn's image, which is the only thing Wharton has going for him, but he has yet to give Wharton supporters anything substantive to say about the guy.
So to fill the void, Wharton supporters like Dana Garrett, are put in the uncomfortable position of trying to come up with ever more hyperbolic praise for St. Ferris. Given all of this, I feel it is my duty to help out the Ferris-ites by cross posting some of the over-the-top Ferris praise that got buried over at Delawarewatch.
1) Ferris is super-strong. Ferris dug the Erie canal in one day. ...with a soup spoon.
2) Ferris is above petty human concerns. Ferris has transcended the world of birth and death into which he was born.
3) Ferris is a killer in the courtroom. Ferris once beat The Devil himself in the case of The Devil vs. Jabez Stone. And he beat old scratch even after The Devil selected an impossible jury. Ever since that case the devil has not been allowed in Sussex County. You can look it up.
They keep shouting "experience" and a new video have a slick web site - but the Wharton/Crossan screw-ups just keep comming. Today we learn that Wharton's campaign will pay $100 in fines -- or $25 for each of four signs -- placed too close to the roadway along Shipley Road, Foulk Road, Marsh Road and Silverside Road, all in Brandywine Hundred in northern New Castle County.
As Celia Cohen puts it:
On the day Ferris W. Wharton premiered a video promoting his experience as a criminal prosecutor, his campaign acknowledged it has run a bit afoul of the civil side of the law.(snip)
As violations go, this one probably competes for severity with overstaying at a parking meter, but it is a more noteworthy blemish for a candidate running on his mastery of the law. In fact, the new video on Wharton's Web site at FerrisWharton.com is titled "Accomplished."
As far as Biden supporters go, Crossan has to be (intentional) at the top of the list. Not only does he continue to attack Wharotn's image, which is the only thing Wharton has going for him, but he has yet to give Wharton supporters anything substantive to say about the guy.
So to fill the void, Wharton supporters like Dana Garrett, are put in the uncomfortable position of trying to come up with ever more hyperbolic praise for St. Ferris. Given all of this, I feel it is my duty to help out the Ferris-ites by cross posting some of the over-the-top Ferris praise that got buried over at Delawarewatch.
1) Ferris is super-strong. Ferris dug the Erie canal in one day. ...with a soup spoon.
2) Ferris is above petty human concerns. Ferris has transcended the world of birth and death into which he was born.
3) Ferris is a killer in the courtroom. Ferris once beat The Devil himself in the case of The Devil vs. Jabez Stone. And he beat old scratch even after The Devil selected an impossible jury. Ever since that case the devil has not been allowed in Sussex County. You can look it up.
BREAKING: BBC reports mass abduction at Baghdad factory
Taji Iraq: Gunmen have abducted at least 80 Iraqi factory workers from a fleet of buses just north of Baghdad, officials say. The abduction took place at a state-owned factory complex at Taji where dozens of insurgents commandeered buses taking employees home after work.
A source quoted by Reuters news agency said the number of those kidnapped was at least 100 and possibly many more.
Why don't they ever report the GOOD news from Iraq?
A source quoted by Reuters news agency said the number of those kidnapped was at least 100 and possibly many more.
Why don't they ever report the GOOD news from Iraq?
Around the Horn - The early (late) edition
UPDATE: Take a second and freep this poll on Jan Ting's site. He wants to know if you think Congress should make the 2001 and 2003 tax cuts permanent? Currently No = 80% and Yes = 20%
I'm either two days early for this week's "around the horn" or five days late for last week's. It all depends on what astrological star sign you are.
Ryan (yet to enlist) at JTTR gives more proof that he is an idiot. He thinks Rick Santorum is smart.
Delathought goes dark. He'll be back. If you like politics, blogging is like heroin.
Donviti says: When the EPA and the Feds say to eat less fish to prevent you from getting mercury poisoning, there is something totally wrong with the system. But what he does not understand is that the mercury-filled-fish-lobby is just getting into the ring.
Mahaffie is going through life with his digital camera hanging around his neck as a kind of experiment.
Mike M at Down With Absolutes asks, "Can monkeys be trained in phlebotomy?" Brainiac conservatives commenters say "yes".
Sebastian at First Slate gets major props from me for pointing me toward this film.
Andrew at Spivackforcongresssays Castle is cashing in on his elected position to vacation around the world. Hey Dennis Spivack, if Mike Castle likes vacationing so much maybe you could help him out with getting him some more free time next fall. It is a win/win situation.
Dana at Delawarewatch hates rich white guys, but he really, really, really, hates rich white guys who have brothers who kill people.
Sporlitics...Timmehhh !!!!
Hube jumps on the Joe Lieberman bandwagon. 'nuff said.
Have a good (rest of the) week. Peace Out.
I'm either two days early for this week's "around the horn" or five days late for last week's. It all depends on what astrological star sign you are.
Ryan (yet to enlist) at JTTR gives more proof that he is an idiot. He thinks Rick Santorum is smart.
Delathought goes dark. He'll be back. If you like politics, blogging is like heroin.
Donviti says: When the EPA and the Feds say to eat less fish to prevent you from getting mercury poisoning, there is something totally wrong with the system. But what he does not understand is that the mercury-filled-fish-lobby is just getting into the ring.
Mahaffie is going through life with his digital camera hanging around his neck as a kind of experiment.
Mike M at Down With Absolutes asks, "Can monkeys be trained in phlebotomy?" Brainiac conservatives commenters say "yes".
Sebastian at First Slate gets major props from me for pointing me toward this film.
Andrew at Spivackforcongresssays Castle is cashing in on his elected position to vacation around the world. Hey Dennis Spivack, if Mike Castle likes vacationing so much maybe you could help him out with getting him some more free time next fall. It is a win/win situation.
Dana at Delawarewatch hates rich white guys, but he really, really, really, hates rich white guys who have brothers who kill people.
Sporlitics...Timmehhh !!!!
Hube jumps on the Joe Lieberman bandwagon. 'nuff said.
Have a good (rest of the) week. Peace Out.
Tuesday, June 20, 2006
Saving Face
According to Bart Gellman's review of Ron Suskind's new book the following things are true:
- Al-Qaedist Abu Zubaydah was captured in March 2002.
- Zubaydah's captors discovered he was mentally ill and charged with minor logistical matters, such as arranging travel for wives and children.
- The President was informed of that judgment by the CIA.
- Two weeks later, the President described Zubaydah as "one of the top operatives plotting and planning death and destruction on the United States."
- Later, Bush told George Tenet, "I said he was important. You're not going to let me lose face on this, are you?" and asked Tenet if "some of these harsh methods really work?"
- The methods -- torture -- were applied.
- Then, according to Gellman, "Under that duress, he began to speak of plots of every variety -- against shopping malls, banks, supermarkets, water systems, nuclear plants, apartment buildings, the Brooklyn Bridge, the Statue of Liberty."
- At which point, according to Suskind, "thousands of uniformed men and women raced in a panic to each . . . target."
When crazy liberals point out that systematic use of torture is unlikely to benefit American national security, this is the kind of thing we have in mind.
Oh, and by the way...Michael Castle thinks Bush is doing a great job.
- Al-Qaedist Abu Zubaydah was captured in March 2002.
- Zubaydah's captors discovered he was mentally ill and charged with minor logistical matters, such as arranging travel for wives and children.
- The President was informed of that judgment by the CIA.
- Two weeks later, the President described Zubaydah as "one of the top operatives plotting and planning death and destruction on the United States."
- Later, Bush told George Tenet, "I said he was important. You're not going to let me lose face on this, are you?" and asked Tenet if "some of these harsh methods really work?"
- The methods -- torture -- were applied.
- Then, according to Gellman, "Under that duress, he began to speak of plots of every variety -- against shopping malls, banks, supermarkets, water systems, nuclear plants, apartment buildings, the Brooklyn Bridge, the Statue of Liberty."
- At which point, according to Suskind, "thousands of uniformed men and women raced in a panic to each . . . target."
When crazy liberals point out that systematic use of torture is unlikely to benefit American national security, this is the kind of thing we have in mind.
Oh, and by the way...Michael Castle thinks Bush is doing a great job.
Watch this film.
The Power of Nightmares
In the past, politicians promised to create a better world. They had different ways of achieving this. But their power and authority came from the optimistic visions they offered to their people. Those dreams failed. And today, people have lost faith in ideologies. Increasingly, politicians are seen simply as managers of public life. But now, they have discovered a new role that restores their power and authority.
Instead of delivering dreams, politicians now promise to protect us from nightmares. They say that they will rescue us from dreadful dangers that we cannot see and do not understand. And the greatest danger of all is international terrorism. A powerful and sinister network, with sleeper cells in countries across the world. A threat that needs to be fought by a war on terror. But much of this threat is a fantasy, which has been exaggerated and distorted by politicians. It’s a dark illusion that has spread unquestioned through governments around the world, the security services, and the international media.
h/t first slate
In the past, politicians promised to create a better world. They had different ways of achieving this. But their power and authority came from the optimistic visions they offered to their people. Those dreams failed. And today, people have lost faith in ideologies. Increasingly, politicians are seen simply as managers of public life. But now, they have discovered a new role that restores their power and authority.
Instead of delivering dreams, politicians now promise to protect us from nightmares. They say that they will rescue us from dreadful dangers that we cannot see and do not understand. And the greatest danger of all is international terrorism. A powerful and sinister network, with sleeper cells in countries across the world. A threat that needs to be fought by a war on terror. But much of this threat is a fantasy, which has been exaggerated and distorted by politicians. It’s a dark illusion that has spread unquestioned through governments around the world, the security services, and the international media.
h/t first slate
HEY TOM CARPER - (IF YOU HAVE ANY JUICE WHATSOEVER) TELL THE DLC TO STOP ATTACKING LIBERALS !!
The DLC website is running a fairly provocative essay entitled "Return of Liberal fundamentalism"
They suggest "left wing liberals" are imposing "single issues litmus tests on Joe Lieberman and others and that "progressive purgers" are reducing the size of the big tent" using Lieberman as the example. This paragraph states their argument best I think.
But there's an undertow that could undermine the potential Democratic tide: efforts by some Democratic activists and organizations to introduce ideological litmus tests for elected officials and intimidate or even purge those who do not meet a narrow definition of what makes a "real Democrat." These efforts not only threaten party unity and divert attention and resources from the broader goal of defeating Republicans; they also signal an intolerance toward dissent and diversity that can repel voters and make an enduring Democratic majority more difficult to achieve.
While the general ideas of single issues litmus tests, and party purges, or how we draw the borders of the big tent are worthy of discussion, my feelings are that this attack on progressives and liberals by the DLC is disingenuous and damaging to our party. And I call on the DLC to renounce this article and this approach.
Delaware is a small state, so I know some of you know Tom Carper. Please tell him to stop attacking liberals. If some staff flunky in Carper's office is reading this please let your boss know that the DLC should not be trying to kill off and purge liberals from the party. Democrats as a whole will do a lot better when you set the DLC's sights on the Republicans, not liberal democrats.
- via a hounddog kos diary.
They suggest "left wing liberals" are imposing "single issues litmus tests on Joe Lieberman and others and that "progressive purgers" are reducing the size of the big tent" using Lieberman as the example. This paragraph states their argument best I think.
But there's an undertow that could undermine the potential Democratic tide: efforts by some Democratic activists and organizations to introduce ideological litmus tests for elected officials and intimidate or even purge those who do not meet a narrow definition of what makes a "real Democrat." These efforts not only threaten party unity and divert attention and resources from the broader goal of defeating Republicans; they also signal an intolerance toward dissent and diversity that can repel voters and make an enduring Democratic majority more difficult to achieve.
While the general ideas of single issues litmus tests, and party purges, or how we draw the borders of the big tent are worthy of discussion, my feelings are that this attack on progressives and liberals by the DLC is disingenuous and damaging to our party. And I call on the DLC to renounce this article and this approach.
Delaware is a small state, so I know some of you know Tom Carper. Please tell him to stop attacking liberals. If some staff flunky in Carper's office is reading this please let your boss know that the DLC should not be trying to kill off and purge liberals from the party. Democrats as a whole will do a lot better when you set the DLC's sights on the Republicans, not liberal democrats.
- via a hounddog kos diary.
Monday, June 19, 2006
A "fact finding" tour of Castle's travel record
Andrew at the spivackforcongress blog has a great run down of Michael Castle's travel record. WARNING: If you thought Castle was some kind of homebody, it aint pretty.
It seems Castle has been out "fact finding" in some very posh resorts over the years. (No doubt in order to take a look at the local coinage.)
While the trips are legal, Andrew makes a great point:
- these kinds of junkets are just the kind of thing you would expect from an person who has been in one elected office or another since 1966.
Or as Andrew put it, "In my opinion, Congressman Castle has simply gotten too comfortable in his position as a seven-term incumbent. "
Lapdog media admits that it simply likes pictures of Bush in Iraq
This is from the department of obvious observations.
During the June 18 edition of CNN's Reliable Sources, Gloria Borger, a CBS News contributor and U.S. News & World Report contributing editor, acknowledged that the media "are suckers" because of their coverage of President Bush's surprise June 13 trip to Iraq. Adding that "[w]e do like these secret trips," Borger concluded: "[Y]ou know you're being used, but in a way you kind of like it because it's good pictures." During the segment, photographs of President Bush walking into Air Force One, riding in its cockpit, and walking with Iraqi Prime Minister Nuri al-Maliki appeared on screen.
Well CBS, CNN et al I'm sure that 2,500 dead Americans and scores of dead Iraqis thank you for your slavish devotion to great pictures of Bush. When the call went out for a worthless pack of mewling sycophants - you stepped up.
- via media matters
UPDATE:Cheney reasserts that the Iraqi Insurgency is still in Its ‘Last Throes’.
You may recall that in May 2005, Vice President Cheney declared that the insurgency in Iraq was in its “last throes” and predicted “[t]he level of activity that we see today from a military standpoint, I think, will clearly decline.” Since that time, violence in Iraq has continued unabated.
Today he reasserted that observation. I feel better. Don't you?
During the June 18 edition of CNN's Reliable Sources, Gloria Borger, a CBS News contributor and U.S. News & World Report contributing editor, acknowledged that the media "are suckers" because of their coverage of President Bush's surprise June 13 trip to Iraq. Adding that "[w]e do like these secret trips," Borger concluded: "[Y]ou know you're being used, but in a way you kind of like it because it's good pictures." During the segment, photographs of President Bush walking into Air Force One, riding in its cockpit, and walking with Iraqi Prime Minister Nuri al-Maliki appeared on screen.
Well CBS, CNN et al I'm sure that 2,500 dead Americans and scores of dead Iraqis thank you for your slavish devotion to great pictures of Bush. When the call went out for a worthless pack of mewling sycophants - you stepped up.
- via media matters
UPDATE:Cheney reasserts that the Iraqi Insurgency is still in Its ‘Last Throes’.
You may recall that in May 2005, Vice President Cheney declared that the insurgency in Iraq was in its “last throes” and predicted “[t]he level of activity that we see today from a military standpoint, I think, will clearly decline.” Since that time, violence in Iraq has continued unabated.
Today he reasserted that observation. I feel better. Don't you?
The Republican Platform: GOTV 24/7: 365
GOTV means "get out the vote" and in thinking about the modern republican party it has occurred to me that I was wrong when I said "Republicans can't govern". It is more accurate to say "Republicans don't want to govern." The recent sham vote on Iraq in congress on is just the latest example of republicans ditching serious debate about America's future and opting instead for sound bites and partisanship.
Republicans have figured out that you don't win election by governing. You win by firing up your base and getting mud to stick to you opponent. Period.
So, it is never about policy for these guys - but only ever about GOTV. Viewed through that prism it is clear that the following things are related:
- Ting's proxies smear Tom Carper.
- Rep. Stephanie Ulbrich grandstanding on the backs of teachers in the Christiana School district,
- Dave Crossan's and Ferris Wharton's ongoing smear attacks on Beau Biden,
- Michael Castle's PR vote for another blank check for Bush, and
- The gay marriage amendment to the constitution.
Part two of this will look at why the Democrats have been so slow in picking up on this and countering it.
Republicans have figured out that you don't win election by governing. You win by firing up your base and getting mud to stick to you opponent. Period.
So, it is never about policy for these guys - but only ever about GOTV. Viewed through that prism it is clear that the following things are related:
- Ting's proxies smear Tom Carper.
- Rep. Stephanie Ulbrich grandstanding on the backs of teachers in the Christiana School district,
- Dave Crossan's and Ferris Wharton's ongoing smear attacks on Beau Biden,
- Michael Castle's PR vote for another blank check for Bush, and
- The gay marriage amendment to the constitution.
Part two of this will look at why the Democrats have been so slow in picking up on this and countering it.
Saturday, June 17, 2006
Michael Castle Does Not Have the Required Experience to Represent Delaware in the United States Congress
That's right. Castle needs some experience.
What am I talking about? Castle has been in Congress since 1993, prior to that he was the governor and prior to that he was a state legislator.
That is exactly what I am talking about. Michael Castle has been living in the upholstered cocoon of elected office since 1966!!
1966 people, think about it. Forty years have passed since Castle has had a serious real world concern. No wonder he is so out of touch. No wonder he makes all the wrong decisions when it comes to representing real Delawareans with real problems. No wonder he rolls over for George Bush when he should fight for us, and no wonder he is so oblivious about it all.
Michael Castle's frame of reference is a time when a gallon of gas cost 32 cents. (Which I think explains why he is so obssessed with quarters. He thinks they are worth real money.)
Ask yourself, what has happened in your life since 1966? Have you had to keep a shitty job because you did not want to lose the health insurance? Michael Castle hasn't. He's had all that covered by you and me for 40 years.
Have you had to figure out what bills to pay and which to try and stretch for a week longer? Michael Castle hasn't. After 40 years living in the country club of elected office, Castle has nothing in common with you and me.
Lyndon Johnson was the President when Castle stopped having the same worries as you and me. The bottom line is Michael Castle is seriously lacking in experience.
What am I talking about? Castle has been in Congress since 1993, prior to that he was the governor and prior to that he was a state legislator.
That is exactly what I am talking about. Michael Castle has been living in the upholstered cocoon of elected office since 1966!!
1966 people, think about it. Forty years have passed since Castle has had a serious real world concern. No wonder he is so out of touch. No wonder he makes all the wrong decisions when it comes to representing real Delawareans with real problems. No wonder he rolls over for George Bush when he should fight for us, and no wonder he is so oblivious about it all.
Michael Castle's frame of reference is a time when a gallon of gas cost 32 cents. (Which I think explains why he is so obssessed with quarters. He thinks they are worth real money.)
Ask yourself, what has happened in your life since 1966? Have you had to keep a shitty job because you did not want to lose the health insurance? Michael Castle hasn't. He's had all that covered by you and me for 40 years.
Have you had to figure out what bills to pay and which to try and stretch for a week longer? Michael Castle hasn't. After 40 years living in the country club of elected office, Castle has nothing in common with you and me.
Lyndon Johnson was the President when Castle stopped having the same worries as you and me. The bottom line is Michael Castle is seriously lacking in experience.
Friday, June 16, 2006
Ting needs no detractors with supporters like these nuts
Ting's campaign is only days old, but he seems to have already won the endorsement of Delaware's crazy freakshow caucus.
Item 1
In the comment section of an ironically titled post "Quote of the Week" Ryan lashes out at Mike Protack and dirty rotten un-American progressives like myself:
Progressives want to rid the United States of the foundation it enjoys by legalizing gay marriage, protecting the killing of unborn children, allowing an open border policy for "multiculturalism," the abandonment of traditional gender roles, and the enslavement of the federal government and people to entitlement programs.
Now, I don't expect Ryan to make sense, but this would make Sean Hannity blush.
Item 2 In a recent Delawarewatch thread, the Ting supporters went off the deep end. I will not link, but here is a little taste. ..a website may be set up so Delaware women can relate stories concerning (Carper's) track record at political events and fund raisers where he has hit on them, made inappropriate comments about their breasts...(snip)
I personally have heard many stories where Carper, when in small groups of people (two or three people) at non-profit fundraisers, has made quite unfathomable comments to women, while rubbing their arms, and leering at that their breasts.
A website...? Could this website concept be Dave Crossan's handiwork? I doubt it, even Crossan could not be that stupid.
These are probably free agent nut cases. Nevertheless, they don't exactly make you want to run out and sign up with Ting do they?
Item 1
In the comment section of an ironically titled post "Quote of the Week" Ryan lashes out at Mike Protack and dirty rotten un-American progressives like myself:
Progressives want to rid the United States of the foundation it enjoys by legalizing gay marriage, protecting the killing of unborn children, allowing an open border policy for "multiculturalism," the abandonment of traditional gender roles, and the enslavement of the federal government and people to entitlement programs.
Now, I don't expect Ryan to make sense, but this would make Sean Hannity blush.
Item 2 In a recent Delawarewatch thread, the Ting supporters went off the deep end. I will not link, but here is a little taste. ..a website may be set up so Delaware women can relate stories concerning (Carper's) track record at political events and fund raisers where he has hit on them, made inappropriate comments about their breasts...(snip)
I personally have heard many stories where Carper, when in small groups of people (two or three people) at non-profit fundraisers, has made quite unfathomable comments to women, while rubbing their arms, and leering at that their breasts.
A website...? Could this website concept be Dave Crossan's handiwork? I doubt it, even Crossan could not be that stupid.
These are probably free agent nut cases. Nevertheless, they don't exactly make you want to run out and sign up with Ting do they?
Grapevine Got One Right
I give Celia an ongoing hard time due to her propensity to take the insider tack and write about the personality mechanics of politics rather than the real world implications of what politicians do or fail to do.
However, there are times when the insider take and the personalities are the story. This is one of those times. Read Grapevine on Lance Corporal Sean Barney.
However, there are times when the insider take and the personalities are the story. This is one of those times. Read Grapevine on Lance Corporal Sean Barney.
No Clear Winner - This Calls for a run-off
Crossan better be on his toes...
When asked, "Who has it out for Crossan?" 36% of you said Priscilla B. Rakestraw, while 27% think it is Hube. Ron Poloquin finds himself in familiar territory polling 18%.
Let's settle this once and for all.
When asked, "Who has it out for Crossan?" 36% of you said Priscilla B. Rakestraw, while 27% think it is Hube. Ron Poloquin finds himself in familiar territory polling 18%.
Let's settle this once and for all.
When Wingnut Ideologies Collide
Can I get a conservative take on this:
When someone kicks your door in you are supposed to assume they are out to kill you right? So being a law abiding, locked and loaded American patriot, I am allowed to start blasting. That is the case in states like Florida anyway, where they have have passed NRA-backed "A man's home is his Castle" laws that give homeowners the right to blast away without any obligation by the homeowner to establish that the intruder is actually a danger.
Now we have a supreme court decision that says police are allowed to bust in to homes "gestapo style" under the new "No Knock" theory. So here is my question, what happens when the police bust in and take fire? Is the "person of interest" who shoots at cops shielded by the NRA backed "Castle Laws".
- via TPMcafe
When someone kicks your door in you are supposed to assume they are out to kill you right? So being a law abiding, locked and loaded American patriot, I am allowed to start blasting. That is the case in states like Florida anyway, where they have have passed NRA-backed "A man's home is his Castle" laws that give homeowners the right to blast away without any obligation by the homeowner to establish that the intruder is actually a danger.
Now we have a supreme court decision that says police are allowed to bust in to homes "gestapo style" under the new "No Knock" theory. So here is my question, what happens when the police bust in and take fire? Is the "person of interest" who shoots at cops shielded by the NRA backed "Castle Laws".
- via TPMcafe
Thursday, June 15, 2006
Cleaning up machine politics in Delaware
The fact that three term Senator, Joe Lieberman is going to lose a Democratic primary and run as an Independent tells me something. It tells me that progressive democrats are getting their shit together.
My question is, if they can do it in CT, why can't we do it here?
Here is MYDD's Matt Stoller on the Connecticut machine:
Connecticut is a machine Democratic state, part of the band of coastal states from Maryland to Massachusetts that are dominated by a closed political apparatus and an expensive media market. The other states in this band are Delaware, Rhode Island, New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania. Blue state politicians in this band are usually local politicians who made good through the machine. Chuck Schumer, Joseph Lieberman, Joe Biden, and Tom Carper are blue state Senators who are fairly conservative and fit into this mold. While this area is a reliably Democratic region in Presidential races, Governor seats are as likely to be held by Republicans as Democrats. New York State, New York City, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and Connecticut all have Republican executives. What this means is that the politicians that are coming through the party apparatus, while skilled at managing relationships with entrenched constituency groups, are by and large not that appealing to their electorates at large. Voters, while pulling the lever for Democrats for President, are very willing to cross party lines because of what they see as incompetent Democratic office-holders.
State level inefficiency in our base region is a serious problem, because it hinders the Democratic Party from developing a progressive bench for higher office, and from showing models for progressive governance. On a state level, the Democratic machines aren't even close to being progressive, though many fine individuals within them are. Any of you MyDDers who are in these areas and have had interactions with these local machines will know what I'm talking about.
My question is, if they can do it in CT, why can't we do it here?
Here is MYDD's Matt Stoller on the Connecticut machine:
Connecticut is a machine Democratic state, part of the band of coastal states from Maryland to Massachusetts that are dominated by a closed political apparatus and an expensive media market. The other states in this band are Delaware, Rhode Island, New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania. Blue state politicians in this band are usually local politicians who made good through the machine. Chuck Schumer, Joseph Lieberman, Joe Biden, and Tom Carper are blue state Senators who are fairly conservative and fit into this mold. While this area is a reliably Democratic region in Presidential races, Governor seats are as likely to be held by Republicans as Democrats. New York State, New York City, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and Connecticut all have Republican executives. What this means is that the politicians that are coming through the party apparatus, while skilled at managing relationships with entrenched constituency groups, are by and large not that appealing to their electorates at large. Voters, while pulling the lever for Democrats for President, are very willing to cross party lines because of what they see as incompetent Democratic office-holders.
State level inefficiency in our base region is a serious problem, because it hinders the Democratic Party from developing a progressive bench for higher office, and from showing models for progressive governance. On a state level, the Democratic machines aren't even close to being progressive, though many fine individuals within them are. Any of you MyDDers who are in these areas and have had interactions with these local machines will know what I'm talking about.
Republican fat cats + your tax money = business as usual
Remember back in December when Matt Denn made the front page of USA today smacking down that Bush Adminstration moron, Health and Human Services Secretary Michael Leavitt ? Well, I do.
By Richard Wolf, USA TODAY
WASHINGTON — Staffing shortages are hampering the start of Medicare's prescription-drug program in many states, forcing seniors and those with disabilities to wait weeks for counseling. (snip)
"It's a numbers problem," says Matt Denn, Delaware's insurance commissioner. "We can't win unless something changes." Frustrations boiled over last week at a meeting in Newark, Del., when Denn told U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Michael Leavitt that "there are some real significant problems." The state has four staff members to advise 120,000 seniors, Denn says. Each day they handle about 40 calls, but about 60 go unanswered.
So now it turns out that while Leavitt was going around the country trying to sell the Bush snake oil, he was doing so in a luxury jet paid for by....that's right. YOU!
ATLANTA — A luxury private jet leased by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for use in emergencies has been used instead primarily to shuttle Health and Human Services Secretary Mike Leavitt to dozens of news conferences and meetings.
This is the kind of thing that would have called for a special prosocuter if Clinton's HSS secretary was doing it. IOKIYAR - baby!
Wednesday, June 14, 2006
Who has it out for Crossan?
In a fairly good rundown of Wharton-gate, Sebastian at first slate raises this question:
...who is throwing GOP-Breck girl Crossan [seriously, that hair makes even Beau look like a Pauper] under the train on this one?
So who is it? Did Bill Lee get the green light from somebody higher up? Let's try to squeeze a bit more juice out of this story. Take the poll:
...who is throwing GOP-Breck girl Crossan [seriously, that hair makes even Beau look like a Pauper] under the train on this one?
So who is it? Did Bill Lee get the green light from somebody higher up? Let's try to squeeze a bit more juice out of this story. Take the poll:
Where is “Fiscally Responsible” Michael Castle now?
House Lawmakers Accept $3,300 Pay Hike
WASHINGTON -- Despite record low approval ratings, House lawmakers Tuesday embraced a $3,300 pay raise that will increase their salaries to $168,500. The 2 percent cost-of-living raise would be the seventh straight for members of the House and Senate. Lawmakers easily squelched a bid by Rep. Jim Matheson, D-Utah, to get a direct vote to block the COLA...
"I do not think that it is appropriate to let this bill go through without an up or down vote on whether or not Congress should have an increase in its own pay," Matheson said.
But by a 249-167 vote, the House rejected Matheson's procedural attempt to get a direct vote on the pay raise.
Castle is such a fraud. I guess $3,300 is more important to the self proclaimed "maverick" than having integrity or making waves in the Republican caucus.
Bush opens mouth, inserts foot
Today, at a press conference, this exchange happened with Peter Wallsten of the Los Angeles Times:
Bush: You gonna ask your question with shades on?
Wallsten: Yes...
Bush: But there's no sun out here.
Wallsten: It depends on your perspective.
Bush: Touché.
Wallsten is blind.
-Via kos
Bush: You gonna ask your question with shades on?
Wallsten: Yes...
Bush: But there's no sun out here.
Wallsten: It depends on your perspective.
Bush: Touché.
Wallsten is blind.
-Via kos
Vote for Gridlock - it is patriotic.
With all this third party talk I have to admit that there is one third party I like - The Libertarians.
While we have some fake libertarians here is Delaware who could not wait to put their personal liberty and small government sesibilities on the shelf in favor of George Bush worship, Libertarians for the most part are people I can hang out with.
Like me, they seem to be more practical than doctrinaire. For example, in this article in reason magazine Ronald Bailey discusses his primary vote for James Webb in Virginia. He makes the case that voting in a Democratic Congress, and getting back to gridlock would be a good thing. I can't argue with that (and while I think Webb makes a good case on his own for being Senator) I'll take every vote we can get.
While we have some fake libertarians here is Delaware who could not wait to put their personal liberty and small government sesibilities on the shelf in favor of George Bush worship, Libertarians for the most part are people I can hang out with.
Like me, they seem to be more practical than doctrinaire. For example, in this article in reason magazine Ronald Bailey discusses his primary vote for James Webb in Virginia. He makes the case that voting in a Democratic Congress, and getting back to gridlock would be a good thing. I can't argue with that (and while I think Webb makes a good case on his own for being Senator) I'll take every vote we can get.
Third Party Dreamers
I'm sick of third parties blowhards on the left who think they are too pure to associate with Democrats. Here (once again) is the LIBERAL DEMOCRATIC manifesto on third parties. All you Ralph Nader lovers should give it a read and think about it.
Preamble:
The Democratic party is the party of civil rights, economic justice, firm and fair relations within the international community, and along with organized labor, a check on the rapacious greed of twentieth century capitalism. When we work to strengthen the party we are working to make America live up to the promises of the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution.
Therefore;
In general elections:
I'm working for and voting for the Democratic ticket. That means I am going to end up voting for some crappy Dems from time to time. Even so, I will never EVER vote for a third party candidate out of "protest". That protest vote is a vote for republican greed and mismanagement, and a vote against my progressive interests.
In primary elections:
I'm working for and voting for the more progressive candidate. So that over the long run I will not have to vote for as many crappy Dems in the future.
If I ever have a legitimate gripe about the Democratic party - I can get off my ass and help fix it. Third parties are for utopian dreamers who have a hard time living and working in the real world. In these times of right-wing excess and abuse of power we can no more leave the Democratic party than we could leave a life boat to climb aboard a passing mirage.
To paraphrase the great Democratic president Bill Clinton, There is nothing wrong with the Democratic Party that can not be fixed by what is right with the democratic party.
Preamble:
The Democratic party is the party of civil rights, economic justice, firm and fair relations within the international community, and along with organized labor, a check on the rapacious greed of twentieth century capitalism. When we work to strengthen the party we are working to make America live up to the promises of the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution.
Therefore;
In general elections:
I'm working for and voting for the Democratic ticket. That means I am going to end up voting for some crappy Dems from time to time. Even so, I will never EVER vote for a third party candidate out of "protest". That protest vote is a vote for republican greed and mismanagement, and a vote against my progressive interests.
In primary elections:
I'm working for and voting for the more progressive candidate. So that over the long run I will not have to vote for as many crappy Dems in the future.
If I ever have a legitimate gripe about the Democratic party - I can get off my ass and help fix it. Third parties are for utopian dreamers who have a hard time living and working in the real world. In these times of right-wing excess and abuse of power we can no more leave the Democratic party than we could leave a life boat to climb aboard a passing mirage.
To paraphrase the great Democratic president Bill Clinton, There is nothing wrong with the Democratic Party that can not be fixed by what is right with the democratic party.
Tuesday, June 13, 2006
Screw Delaware Watch
I wish I never coined the term "Delaware Incumbency Party" Dana is SO misusing it. His recent post is 100% pure cry baby bullshit. I think he just gets off on being this contrarian pain in the ass.
What the hell has the green party done? Nothing - other than help out Republicans.
If he really cared about progressive politics and social justice he'd join the democratic party and start getting some work done instead of pissing on everyone from his ivory tower.
What a useless posuer.
What the hell has the green party done? Nothing - other than help out Republicans.
If he really cared about progressive politics and social justice he'd join the democratic party and start getting some work done instead of pissing on everyone from his ivory tower.
What a useless posuer.
Operation Iraqi Photo Op II: The Reckoning
Sorry...this picture is from "Operation Iraqi Photo Op One". I'll update when the new pictures come in. The Green Zone looks lovely this time of year.
IT IS THE ECONOMY STUPID ! Castle has got to go!
(Dow Jones Industrials vs. Haliburton click image to enlarge)
Republicans are killing our economy. Yes, it is that simple.
Stocks are back to where they started when Bush took over, interest rates are heading up, and right-wing nut cases are still clamoring for more tax cuts. Who makes money in this type of situation? Michael Castle and his rich buddies up in Centerville and Hockessin, that's who.
Even working class republicans agree that Bush/Castle economic policies are helping out a very small minority of super wealthy people. The middle class is getting hammered by rising prices and stagnant wages. All Voters, regardless of party affiliation, have have a very simple choice; do they want to endorse the "more of the same" approach Mike Castle's out of control, economy killing style mismangment? Or do they want to get this country moving again with the kind of reality based style management endorsed by Dennis Spivack ?
Monday, June 12, 2006
Fired up in Texas
You say you want a revolution in democratic politics? This is how it is done.
"Clarkies" and "Deaniacs" join forces to reform the Texas State Democratic party.
Read the whole MYDD post. I am really warming up to Wes Clark. He must have kicked some serious ass with his keynote.
"Clarkies" and "Deaniacs" join forces to reform the Texas State Democratic party.
Read the whole MYDD post. I am really warming up to Wes Clark. He must have kicked some serious ass with his keynote.
BREAKING "Crazy-ass" Crossan Not Demoted & Strine to continue his impotent management of DE GOP
Good news for Delaware Democrats.
Delathought reports that David A "Crazy-ass" Crossan will continue to go off half cocked as the ED of the DE GOP with no limits when it comes to making bad choices and Strine will put up a fight for the chairmanship when the time comes.
Wharton-gate (c) is turning into a present that never stops giving.
Delathought reports that David A "Crazy-ass" Crossan will continue to go off half cocked as the ED of the DE GOP with no limits when it comes to making bad choices and Strine will put up a fight for the chairmanship when the time comes.
Wharton-gate (c) is turning into a present that never stops giving.
Jack Markell "gets it"
With all of the coverage of the DE GOP implosion, the convention of the Delaware Democrats got glossed over.
Dems like ’06 chances: Party faithful hold convention in Dover
By Joe Rogalsky, Delaware State News
DOVER — Delaware Democrats gathered for their state convention at Wesley College on Friday night, bolstered by their winning records in recent statewide elections, an advantage in voter registration and public dislike for Republicans on a national level.
“Across the country, Republicans are on the ropes," said state Treasurer Jack Markell, who is unopposed so far in his quest for a third term.
"The people are ready to cast out the other party in November, but let'’s seal the deal with our hard work."
Damn right. We can't go around thinking that the Republicans are going to dissolve thier party. (Even though all the objective evidence says that they should.)
We are never leaving Iraq
Congressman Castle, do you support President Bush's plan to keep us in Iraq for decades?
Someone should ask Mr. Castle about this New York Times report that the Bush administration is making plans to keep tens of thousands of U.S. troops in Iraq indefinitely:
Mr. Bush on Friday made clear that the American commitment to the country will be long-term. Officials say the administration has begun to look at the costs of maintaining a force of roughly 50,000 troops there for years to come, roughly the size of the American presence maintained in the Philippines and Korea for decades after those conflicts.
...and this. On Meet the Press, Retired Gen. Barry McCaffery said it was likely that the U.S. will keep at least 50,000 in Iraq for the next 10 years:
GEN. McCAFFREY: Well, if it’s a government that works, we can probably sustain the U.S. troops, 50,000, 60,000, 70,000 troops there for 10 years and hope that Iraq turns into a responsible governmental entity that doesn’t attack its neighbors, doesn’t build WMD. I still think that’s a likely outcome if the political system can come together on the ground.
If we had a free press maybe someone would ask Castle about why Congress stripped a provision from the supplemental spending bill that would have ruled out permanent U.S. bases in Iraq.
- via Think Progress
Someone should ask Mr. Castle about this New York Times report that the Bush administration is making plans to keep tens of thousands of U.S. troops in Iraq indefinitely:
Mr. Bush on Friday made clear that the American commitment to the country will be long-term. Officials say the administration has begun to look at the costs of maintaining a force of roughly 50,000 troops there for years to come, roughly the size of the American presence maintained in the Philippines and Korea for decades after those conflicts.
...and this. On Meet the Press, Retired Gen. Barry McCaffery said it was likely that the U.S. will keep at least 50,000 in Iraq for the next 10 years:
GEN. McCAFFREY: Well, if it’s a government that works, we can probably sustain the U.S. troops, 50,000, 60,000, 70,000 troops there for 10 years and hope that Iraq turns into a responsible governmental entity that doesn’t attack its neighbors, doesn’t build WMD. I still think that’s a likely outcome if the political system can come together on the ground.
If we had a free press maybe someone would ask Castle about why Congress stripped a provision from the supplemental spending bill that would have ruled out permanent U.S. bases in Iraq.
- via Think Progress
BREAKING: CROSSAN GETS A DEMOTION & STRINE TO STEP DOWN OVER WHARTON-GATE
Dana's audio post has the story.
In the past Garret has been very wary about allowing himself be used by insiders out to push some internal agenda - so he must feel very confident about the report.
In the past Garret has been very wary about allowing himself be used by insiders out to push some internal agenda - so he must feel very confident about the report.
Sunday, June 11, 2006
David A Crossan's crazy Biden hatred derails Wharton and (maybe) the whole stinking DE GOP
First of all, read Dana's whole post about hateful, stupid David A Crossan and how he is killing the DE GOP with his insane anti-Biden jihad.
Now here it is:
1) The Rove/Bush administrration created Dave Crossan and hundreds like him around the country. They made it okay to put hate front and center in the GOP - and for people like Crossan, the more you hated, the better things went (for a while). So instead of building the party, Crossan and his ilk spent the last few years dreaming up stupid politcal stunts like the "Howard Dean Scream Constest" at the state fair.
2) By selling its soul to Rove/Bush style hatred based governance the DE GOP has put itself in a classic lose/lose situation. As Dt points out in the Delawarewatch thread - if Wharton squeaks out a victory it will validate the useless Strine/Crossan (mal)adminstration. If Wharton loses republican activists will have a chance to rebuild - but Delaware republicans will be looking at years in the wilderness either way.
Saturday, June 10, 2006
Around the Horn Saturday
So....what have you folks been up to while I've been out of town?
Donviti asks in De la Whar who are the elitist now...bitches?
Mahaffie says blogs might make gub'mint more efficient. But you'll have to complain about your next door neigbor's ugly looking fence under your Christian name.
Making me feel better about not blogging since the 8th is Down with Absolutes.
Sebastian at First Slate is making me feel MUCH better about not blogging over the weekend. No udpates since May 8th.
Ryan (yet to enlist) at JTTR is doing his part for the war effort by blogging about military stuff. Very courageous Ryan. You are a regular Audie Murphy.
Delathought pines for the good old days when Dems would lay down and let republicans kick them in the head. Those days are gone Dt, stop living in the past.
Andrew at Spivackforcongress wonders what the GOP is thinking with this Gay marriage stuff. Maybe the RNC is trying to emulate the DE GOP ? Have you considered that Andrew?
Dana at Delawarewatch marks the end of an error. Tom Delay says "Adios".
Tommywonk sounds like me (if I was smarter and had a better way with words, and knew a bit about what I was commenting on...)
"The irony for Ferris Wharton, who reportedly approved the radio spots, is that he could end up looking like the clueless neophyte by allowing himself to be handled by a Karl Rove wannabe (Crossan)."
Hube at Rhodey if filling in on the sports beat while Sporlitics takes a breather. Hube, here is the good news: The Rams will get back to the superbowl befor the Eagles. The bad news is it will be Superbowl CXLII in the year 2178.
Have a good (rest of the) weekend. Peace Out.
Donviti asks in De la Whar who are the elitist now...bitches?
Mahaffie says blogs might make gub'mint more efficient. But you'll have to complain about your next door neigbor's ugly looking fence under your Christian name.
Making me feel better about not blogging since the 8th is Down with Absolutes.
Sebastian at First Slate is making me feel MUCH better about not blogging over the weekend. No udpates since May 8th.
Ryan (yet to enlist) at JTTR is doing his part for the war effort by blogging about military stuff. Very courageous Ryan. You are a regular Audie Murphy.
Delathought pines for the good old days when Dems would lay down and let republicans kick them in the head. Those days are gone Dt, stop living in the past.
Andrew at Spivackforcongress wonders what the GOP is thinking with this Gay marriage stuff. Maybe the RNC is trying to emulate the DE GOP ? Have you considered that Andrew?
Dana at Delawarewatch marks the end of an error. Tom Delay says "Adios".
Tommywonk sounds like me (if I was smarter and had a better way with words, and knew a bit about what I was commenting on...)
"The irony for Ferris Wharton, who reportedly approved the radio spots, is that he could end up looking like the clueless neophyte by allowing himself to be handled by a Karl Rove wannabe (Crossan)."
Hube at Rhodey if filling in on the sports beat while Sporlitics takes a breather. Hube, here is the good news: The Rams will get back to the superbowl befor the Eagles. The bad news is it will be Superbowl CXLII in the year 2178.
Have a good (rest of the) weekend. Peace Out.
Thursday, June 08, 2006
DE GOP Tries to Cover its ass
The Delaware GOP gave itself an exploding cigar in the form of the lame PR stunt coupled with the Wharton attack ad. Now Strine is trying to pretened that he wanted that ringing in his ears and all that soot on his face. This reverse engineered email is what passes for "crisis managment" for the Delaware GOP:
Strengthening Delaware's Weak Requirements for Attorney General: The Facts.
-- Delaware's Attorney General has more power than most Attorneys General, but the minimum requirements are among the weakest in the Nation. (Full statewide prosecution authority plus civil, consumer and appellate responsibilities)
-- Maryland required their Attorney General be a member of their Bar for 10 years, Pennsylvania 10 years, Virginia 5 years. (Virginia Constitution Article V section 15, Maryland Constitution Article V section 4, Pennsylvania Constitution Article IV, section 3)
It goes on, but never mentions either Wharton or Biden. It is as if the DE GOP is saying, This had nothing whatsoever to do with Biden....honest. You believe me right?
Between this on the local level and the gay marriage ban (which the congress is going to take up again) on the national level I'm getting the feeling that republicans think legislation can only serve one purpose - to help elect more republicans.
Strengthening Delaware's Weak Requirements for Attorney General: The Facts.
-- Delaware's Attorney General has more power than most Attorneys General, but the minimum requirements are among the weakest in the Nation. (Full statewide prosecution authority plus civil, consumer and appellate responsibilities)
-- Maryland required their Attorney General be a member of their Bar for 10 years, Pennsylvania 10 years, Virginia 5 years. (Virginia Constitution Article V section 15, Maryland Constitution Article V section 4, Pennsylvania Constitution Article IV, section 3)
It goes on, but never mentions either Wharton or Biden. It is as if the DE GOP is saying, This had nothing whatsoever to do with Biden....honest. You believe me right?
Between this on the local level and the gay marriage ban (which the congress is going to take up again) on the national level I'm getting the feeling that republicans think legislation can only serve one purpose - to help elect more republicans.
Sorry NBA, I'm just not into you...
I tend to watch the last ten minutes of the last few games on the NBA finals, which makes me an average American. The Onion has started it's coverage, and I heard a bit this morning about the young coach vs. the old coach that sounded interesting.
Other than that, ...eh.
Zarqawi Killed
I'm not sure what this means. ( We are winning? ) Bush will expain the significance from the Rose Garden this morning.
-the BBC
UPDATE:
WASHINGTON - President Bush on Thursday hailed the killing of al-Qaida leader in Iraq Abu Musab al-Zarqawi by military forces in Iraq at an early morning press conference in the White House rose garden.
“This was a key player directly responsible for some of the most horrific killing in Iraq including U.S. men and women service people. You can’t under-estimate the significance of that. But our mission continues and it is an effective one that will involve more sacrifice and more fighting,” the (White House) official said.
UPDATE II:
U.S. military shows video with F-16s dropping two 500-pound bombs that killed Abu Musab al-Zarqawi. - CNN It is not exactly marines hoisting a flag over Mt. Surabachi is it?
-the BBC
UPDATE:
WASHINGTON - President Bush on Thursday hailed the killing of al-Qaida leader in Iraq Abu Musab al-Zarqawi by military forces in Iraq at an early morning press conference in the White House rose garden.
“This was a key player directly responsible for some of the most horrific killing in Iraq including U.S. men and women service people. You can’t under-estimate the significance of that. But our mission continues and it is an effective one that will involve more sacrifice and more fighting,” the (White House) official said.
UPDATE II:
U.S. military shows video with F-16s dropping two 500-pound bombs that killed Abu Musab al-Zarqawi. - CNN It is not exactly marines hoisting a flag over Mt. Surabachi is it?
Wednesday, June 07, 2006
I like Hube !
He hates me though. Very testy. Very thin skinned. I don't blame him. He has one of the toughest and least appreciated jobs in America and this administration has been pretty hard on his libertarian pretensions. If he has to lash out at someone - let it be me.
Anyway - check out Rhodey and read the "tongue-in-cheek" "Top 11 Things That Anti-War Protesters Would Have Said At the Normandy Invasion on D-Day (Had There Been Anti-War Protesters At Normandy)" post and thread and see if the right wingers are not setting up a "stabbed in the back narrative" for Iraq.
Anyway - check out Rhodey and read the "tongue-in-cheek" "Top 11 Things That Anti-War Protesters Would Have Said At the Normandy Invasion on D-Day (Had There Been Anti-War Protesters At Normandy)" post and thread and see if the right wingers are not setting up a "stabbed in the back narrative" for Iraq.
Republicans return to yummy mother's milk: The stabbed in the back narrative
UPDATE: As if on cue, the braintrust puts up this little gem blaming "anti-war protesters" for the debacle in Iraq. That's right - it is those bad "anti-war protesters" fault. Who knew they had so much power? If it were not for those "anti-war protesters" we'd be kicking ass.
The stabbed in the back narrative has a long and storied history among right-wing movements seeking to explain the failures of conservative policies. And it's here now, in force. The right-wing in this country is working overtime to ensure that the Democrats and the media receive blame for the consequences of the war in Iraq and the failed war on terror rather than the right-wing leaders who are actually in charge.
Here Matt Stoller at MYDD picks up the thread. You can read it, or simply wait for Hube, Ryan and Politakid to commence the parroting.
The stabbed in the back narrative has a long and storied history among right-wing movements seeking to explain the failures of conservative policies. And it's here now, in force. The right-wing in this country is working overtime to ensure that the Democrats and the media receive blame for the consequences of the war in Iraq and the failed war on terror rather than the right-wing leaders who are actually in charge.
Here Matt Stoller at MYDD picks up the thread. You can read it, or simply wait for Hube, Ryan and Politakid to commence the parroting.
Still a Dumbass
Can some Republican out there clear something up for me.
Was this some kind of taxpayer funded junket designed to allow State Senators shoot machine guns and get their pictures taken on tanks?
If so, was that really the best use of our money?
UPDATE: It was federal tax money, not state tax money being squandered. I feel better now.
The Conventional Wisdom on St. Ferris
Two inside-baseball hacks give us the prevailing CW:
Wharton is a good guy, dogged by GOP incompetence.
Celia Cohen: They (rank and file R's) think the best thing that Ferris W. Wharton, their candidate, has going is his contrasting background of a 26-year history as a prosecutor.... (but they have) a range of objections to the radio spot itself, such as: It leaves a mistaken impression that Biden's candidacy can be stopped with legislation
Ron Williams: State Republicans continue on their misguided path in the attorney general's race against Beau Biden. Last week, a snooty Web site challenged Biden's experience. This week there's a move in the Legislature to require that AG candidates have five years of Delaware bar membership. (Biden has four.) Does anyone in the GOP remember their guy Ferris Wharton?
Welcome to politics in 2006. Issues...? What issues?
Wharton is a good guy, dogged by GOP incompetence.
Celia Cohen: They (rank and file R's) think the best thing that Ferris W. Wharton, their candidate, has going is his contrasting background of a 26-year history as a prosecutor.... (but they have) a range of objections to the radio spot itself, such as: It leaves a mistaken impression that Biden's candidacy can be stopped with legislation
Ron Williams: State Republicans continue on their misguided path in the attorney general's race against Beau Biden. Last week, a snooty Web site challenged Biden's experience. This week there's a move in the Legislature to require that AG candidates have five years of Delaware bar membership. (Biden has four.) Does anyone in the GOP remember their guy Ferris Wharton?
Welcome to politics in 2006. Issues...? What issues?
"That's the Way God Planned it."
Tuesday, June 06, 2006
Two New to The Blog Roll
Donviti's De la Whare is one I've been meaning to add for a while. Check out the cartoon, and the "Send a (Polita)Kid to Iraq" posts.
Sporlitics mashes politics and sports into a blog that is hard to pronounce, but easy to read.
Sporlitics mashes politics and sports into a blog that is hard to pronounce, but easy to read.
What does it say about Ferris Wharton's character that he would even belong to the party of George Bush?
This was the 51st post on a Wharton thread over at Delawatch. I have (edited slightly and) pasted it here because it is too good to let languish waaay down in the sub-basement. The links did not survive the cut and paste, but you get the idea.
I've had it with the viewpoint that Wharton is apolitical and has too much integrity to be affected by politics. I am not willing to automatically extend him the benefit of the doubt. As a Republican he has to dig himself out of a DEEP credibility hole.
Republican state AGs are causing mischief all over the nation, and ALL of them ran on promises to be above politics. Make no mistake, the RNC has a plan to use AG positions to shape state policies and as a springboard to further elected office.
This is just a sample:
Republican AG subpoenas abortion records (Kansas)
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp...- 2005Mar19.html
Republican AG appeals a court ruling against parental notification, in opposition to his governor (New Hampshire)
http://www.seacoastonline.com/20.../news/ 45466.htm
Republican AG files legal attack on lawyers who challenged Ohio election results
http://www.freepress.org/departm...ay/19/2005/ 1102
Republican AG exposes corporate whistle-blower
http://www.sptimes.com/2006/04/ 1..._meddled_.shtml
Republican AG declares governor's order banning anti-gay discrimination "unconstitutional" (Virgina)
http://www.washingtonpost.com/ wp...6022402003.html
Oh and then there's RAGA: "$5,000 Buys Companies Access to GOP Attorneys General"
http://www.publici.org/report.as...rt.aspx? aid=519
RAGA = Republican AG Association (Jane Brady - past Vice Chair and RAGA money recipient). The Houghton campaign called out RAGA in 2002:
http://www.vivianhoughton.com/ vi...rady_secret.htm
DeLawOffice.com wonders about RAGA too:
http://www.delawoffice.com/ 2002_...e.html#85527222
If Wharton wants to keep his reputation for integrity he needs to renounce RAGA and its money. Watch Wharton on this one.
Also, let's ask Beau and Ferris if they plan to get serious about that damn chemical plant in Delaware City, the one that keeps releasing clouds of chlorine gas and occasionally dissolving entire people in acid. Does either Beau or Ferris see some much bigger fines in their future? or maybe Ferris with his talents could press richly deserved CRIMINAL charges?
Here's a good review of state AG races:
http:// www.swingstateproject.com...6_attorneys.php
Beau, study this debate:
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp...- 2005Apr11.html
and
http://www.timescommunity.com/si...id=506105&rfi=6
If you want to know what Republican AGs really think, read up on this 2005 debate between two Virginia Republi-bot AG candidates who primaried each other ("From their haircuts to their suits to their stances on social and legal issues, Virginia Beach Del. Bob McDonnell and attorney Steve Baril are nearly identical"). McDonnell, a theocon graduate of Pat Robertson's law school, won by a "hair." If you think AGs are apolitical, look at the points of policy these guys were arguing.
I've had it with the viewpoint that Wharton is apolitical and has too much integrity to be affected by politics. I am not willing to automatically extend him the benefit of the doubt. As a Republican he has to dig himself out of a DEEP credibility hole.
Republican state AGs are causing mischief all over the nation, and ALL of them ran on promises to be above politics. Make no mistake, the RNC has a plan to use AG positions to shape state policies and as a springboard to further elected office.
This is just a sample:
Republican AG subpoenas abortion records (Kansas)
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp...- 2005Mar19.html
Republican AG appeals a court ruling against parental notification, in opposition to his governor (New Hampshire)
http://www.seacoastonline.com/20.../news/ 45466.htm
Republican AG files legal attack on lawyers who challenged Ohio election results
http://www.freepress.org/departm...ay/19/2005/ 1102
Republican AG exposes corporate whistle-blower
http://www.sptimes.com/2006/04/ 1..._meddled_.shtml
Republican AG declares governor's order banning anti-gay discrimination "unconstitutional" (Virgina)
http://www.washingtonpost.com/ wp...6022402003.html
Oh and then there's RAGA: "$5,000 Buys Companies Access to GOP Attorneys General"
http://www.publici.org/report.as...rt.aspx? aid=519
RAGA = Republican AG Association (Jane Brady - past Vice Chair and RAGA money recipient). The Houghton campaign called out RAGA in 2002:
http://www.vivianhoughton.com/ vi...rady_secret.htm
DeLawOffice.com wonders about RAGA too:
http://www.delawoffice.com/ 2002_...e.html#85527222
If Wharton wants to keep his reputation for integrity he needs to renounce RAGA and its money. Watch Wharton on this one.
Also, let's ask Beau and Ferris if they plan to get serious about that damn chemical plant in Delaware City, the one that keeps releasing clouds of chlorine gas and occasionally dissolving entire people in acid. Does either Beau or Ferris see some much bigger fines in their future? or maybe Ferris with his talents could press richly deserved CRIMINAL charges?
Here's a good review of state AG races:
http:// www.swingstateproject.com...6_attorneys.php
Beau, study this debate:
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp...- 2005Apr11.html
and
http://www.timescommunity.com/si...id=506105&rfi=6
If you want to know what Republican AGs really think, read up on this 2005 debate between two Virginia Republi-bot AG candidates who primaried each other ("From their haircuts to their suits to their stances on social and legal issues, Virginia Beach Del. Bob McDonnell and attorney Steve Baril are nearly identical"). McDonnell, a theocon graduate of Pat Robertson's law school, won by a "hair." If you think AGs are apolitical, look at the points of policy these guys were arguing.
I found a "good" Republican
Today is the 62nd anniversary of D-Day. Compare the future Republican President of the United States versus the current model.
"Our landings in the Cherbourg-Havre area have failed to gain a satisfactory foothold and I have withdrawn the troops. My decision to attack at this time and place was based upon the best information available. The troops, the air and the Navy did all that Bravery and devotion to duty could do. If any blame or fault attaches to the attempt it is mine alone. June 5, 1944."
Those words were written by Dwight Eisenhower before the most substantial and risky military operation in world history. Of course, the Normandy Invasions did not fail, but if it had, the above statement would have been released and it would have been Eisenhower's epitath.
Sixty years later, we have a so-called leader that never assumes responsibility for anything.
- Via - via Rising Hegemon
"Our landings in the Cherbourg-Havre area have failed to gain a satisfactory foothold and I have withdrawn the troops. My decision to attack at this time and place was based upon the best information available. The troops, the air and the Navy did all that Bravery and devotion to duty could do. If any blame or fault attaches to the attempt it is mine alone. June 5, 1944."
Those words were written by Dwight Eisenhower before the most substantial and risky military operation in world history. Of course, the Normandy Invasions did not fail, but if it had, the above statement would have been released and it would have been Eisenhower's epitath.
Sixty years later, we have a so-called leader that never assumes responsibility for anything.
- Via - via Rising Hegemon
Happy Harry's Employees Should be Happy
Monday, June 05, 2006
Senator, do you bop the baloney?
From an actual call to Senator George Allen's office (R-VA):
Staffer: Good morning, Senator Allen's office
Caller: Yes I'm calling to see if the senator supports traditional marriage.
Staffer: Yes he does, he supports the bill.
Caller: Okay, and he's divorced?
Staffer: Uh (uncomfortably) yes sir.
Caller: Yes, okay,
Staffer: ...but he's remarried.
Caller: What was the cause of his divorce? Do you know the reason? Is his wife remarried?
Staffer: I don't know, it was a long time ago sir.
Caller: Okay, could you tell me if the senator masturbates?
Staffer: I'm sorry, I can't answer these questions.
Caller: Can you tell me, do you masturbate?
Click
This is a perfectly valid question given the GOP's desire to debate gay marriage on the grounds that 1) it somehow undermines heterosexual marriage, and 2) The Bible frowns on it.
On that second point...
Republican moralist Kay Bailey Hutchison says "no Christian" believes everything they read in the Bible. While this may come as a surpise to the "many Christians" who believe eveything they read in the Bible, according to Republican moralist Kay Bailey Hutchison, a woman who is divorced and then remarries is NOT an adulteress.
This is convenient for Ms. Bailey Hutchison since she is, in fact, divorced and remarried.
- via americablog
Staffer: Good morning, Senator Allen's office
Caller: Yes I'm calling to see if the senator supports traditional marriage.
Staffer: Yes he does, he supports the bill.
Caller: Okay, and he's divorced?
Staffer: Uh (uncomfortably) yes sir.
Caller: Yes, okay,
Staffer: ...but he's remarried.
Caller: What was the cause of his divorce? Do you know the reason? Is his wife remarried?
Staffer: I don't know, it was a long time ago sir.
Caller: Okay, could you tell me if the senator masturbates?
Staffer: I'm sorry, I can't answer these questions.
Caller: Can you tell me, do you masturbate?
Click
This is a perfectly valid question given the GOP's desire to debate gay marriage on the grounds that 1) it somehow undermines heterosexual marriage, and 2) The Bible frowns on it.
On that second point...
Republican moralist Kay Bailey Hutchison says "no Christian" believes everything they read in the Bible. While this may come as a surpise to the "many Christians" who believe eveything they read in the Bible, according to Republican moralist Kay Bailey Hutchison, a woman who is divorced and then remarries is NOT an adulteress.
This is convenient for Ms. Bailey Hutchison since she is, in fact, divorced and remarried.
- via americablog
Ferris Wharton Shreds His Reputation With First Radio Ad
I just heard the Ferris Wharton ad on WDEL. I've heard of candidates taking the low road, but Ferris (or probably the evil morons who are running his campaign) started out on the low road and brought in excavating equipment to create an even lower road.
The ad has all the classic hallmarks of a republican smear job. The ominous music. The very concerned sounding announcer. The half-truths presented with deadly earnestness.
BUT this ad even went farther. This is when they brought in the excavating equipment.
In this ad we find out that some republican dirty trick artists have introduced legislation that would prevent Beau Biden from serving as AG if elected. How crazy is that? Republicans, at long last have you no shame?
If Wharton picked the people who wrote this ad, he clearly does not have the judgment or discernment required to be AG. If he was saddled with these evil morons by the GOP - he needs to start sending out pink slips.
The ad has all the classic hallmarks of a republican smear job. The ominous music. The very concerned sounding announcer. The half-truths presented with deadly earnestness.
BUT this ad even went farther. This is when they brought in the excavating equipment.
In this ad we find out that some republican dirty trick artists have introduced legislation that would prevent Beau Biden from serving as AG if elected. How crazy is that? Republicans, at long last have you no shame?
If Wharton picked the people who wrote this ad, he clearly does not have the judgment or discernment required to be AG. If he was saddled with these evil morons by the GOP - he needs to start sending out pink slips.
No "Free Rides" for Republican Incumbents This Year
Republican incompetence and malfeasance on the federal level is taking a toll on state level republicans.
Every state is different. Each has it's own issues which have mixed with a general sense of outrage over republican mismanagement. For us it is the insider state legislature that wants to do our business in the dark of night behind closed doors, protecting every republican incumbent by hook or by crook.
For South Dakota it is the most extreme abortion law passed by any state legislature in the country. The issues are different, but when you combine them with the general feeling in the country that republicans simply can not govern - we end up with something in common. Record numbers of Dem challengers:
By 4/06, SD Dems found more than 100 candidates vying for 91 seats in the state legislature - a ten year high for the state party. - via hotline
By the filing deadline, I'm sure I will be able to write something similar for Delaware.
Say it with me, No "safe" seats. Not now, not ever.
Every state is different. Each has it's own issues which have mixed with a general sense of outrage over republican mismanagement. For us it is the insider state legislature that wants to do our business in the dark of night behind closed doors, protecting every republican incumbent by hook or by crook.
For South Dakota it is the most extreme abortion law passed by any state legislature in the country. The issues are different, but when you combine them with the general feeling in the country that republicans simply can not govern - we end up with something in common. Record numbers of Dem challengers:
By 4/06, SD Dems found more than 100 candidates vying for 91 seats in the state legislature - a ten year high for the state party. - via hotline
By the filing deadline, I'm sure I will be able to write something similar for Delaware.
Say it with me, No "safe" seats. Not now, not ever.
Breaking News: Jerry Fulcher is an Idiot
This guy plays "the liberal" in a little punch and judy show on WDEL with Rick "don't touch the hair" Jensen. It seems Fulcher attacked the progressive Democrats for Delaware on the air for running candidates against "good" Republicans.
Give me a freaking break. First of all, it is called Democracy Fulcher! If you don't like it go live in China baby!!
Secondly, who are these so-called "good" republicans? They voted for Bush, didn't they? They got us into this war, didn't they? They are demolishing the constitution and wrecking the economy of this country with their out of control pork barrel spending.
Show me a "good" Republican and I'll show you a talented liar.
Give me a freaking break. First of all, it is called Democracy Fulcher! If you don't like it go live in China baby!!
Secondly, who are these so-called "good" republicans? They voted for Bush, didn't they? They got us into this war, didn't they? They are demolishing the constitution and wrecking the economy of this country with their out of control pork barrel spending.
Show me a "good" Republican and I'll show you a talented liar.
Welcome News Journal Readers
Delaware boasts a thriving blogosphere, where local and national politics are scrutinized to a degree that most politicians would find either gratifying or terrifying.
"If Carper or Biden vote for this, they should be TOAST!" declared blogger "Jason" at Delaware Liberal, after linking to a story about the Senate's plan to permanently eliminate the estate tax. He went on to speculate about whether Rep. Mike Castle is, in fact, a "fake moderate."
Although I have much better posts, all in all....
In your face Delathought !!
"If Carper or Biden vote for this, they should be TOAST!" declared blogger "Jason" at Delaware Liberal, after linking to a story about the Senate's plan to permanently eliminate the estate tax. He went on to speculate about whether Rep. Mike Castle is, in fact, a "fake moderate."
Although I have much better posts, all in all....
In your face Delathought !!
Republicans in search of a "Teri Schiavo Moment" find gay marriage
Dear friend,
Each week, Senator Frist and the Republican Leadership make choices about the Senate agenda. They could focus our work on record high gas prices, the war in Iraq, or skyrocketing health care costs.
But there's an ugly truth: it's election season and down-in-the-polls Republicans are turning to their same old playbook - fear and division. Later this week, Bill Frist, in an attempt to appease extreme right wing elements of the Republican Party, has promised that the Senate will vote on the Federal Marriage Amendment and attempt to write discrimination into the Constitution for the first time in 230 years.
This divisive and unnecessary amendment that would undermine the Constitution has overwhelmingly failed each time the Senate has voted on it. We don't need another Terri Schiavo moment where we spend valuable time away from the important work that needs to be done. Now, more than ever, it's time to focus on security, solutions for the high cost of healthcare and gas prices.
But you know Bill Frist and the Republican Leadership can't be trusted to address real issues. After all, Senate Republicans and their big oil friends have forced more than ten votes to drill for oil in ANWR, but not a single vote to lower gas prices. They spent months trying to privatize Social Security, but Bill Frist can't find room in the schedule to raise the minimum wage or provide funding for Stem Cell research.
We need a President and a Congress that doesn't play divisive politics. At a time of war, Republicans should unite the country and focus on the real issues, not divide and undermine its founding principles.
Thank you,
Harry Reid
Each week, Senator Frist and the Republican Leadership make choices about the Senate agenda. They could focus our work on record high gas prices, the war in Iraq, or skyrocketing health care costs.
But there's an ugly truth: it's election season and down-in-the-polls Republicans are turning to their same old playbook - fear and division. Later this week, Bill Frist, in an attempt to appease extreme right wing elements of the Republican Party, has promised that the Senate will vote on the Federal Marriage Amendment and attempt to write discrimination into the Constitution for the first time in 230 years.
This divisive and unnecessary amendment that would undermine the Constitution has overwhelmingly failed each time the Senate has voted on it. We don't need another Terri Schiavo moment where we spend valuable time away from the important work that needs to be done. Now, more than ever, it's time to focus on security, solutions for the high cost of healthcare and gas prices.
But you know Bill Frist and the Republican Leadership can't be trusted to address real issues. After all, Senate Republicans and their big oil friends have forced more than ten votes to drill for oil in ANWR, but not a single vote to lower gas prices. They spent months trying to privatize Social Security, but Bill Frist can't find room in the schedule to raise the minimum wage or provide funding for Stem Cell research.
We need a President and a Congress that doesn't play divisive politics. At a time of war, Republicans should unite the country and focus on the real issues, not divide and undermine its founding principles.
Thank you,
Harry Reid
Delaware GOP reveals its Wharton vs. Biden Strategery
"WAAAHHHHHH!!!!!!!!" - Delathought
"Now compare Biden’s experience with someone has a passion for this line of work: Wharton has been a member of the Delaware Bar for 27 years." - delawarewatch
oooohhhhh..... 27 years. Golly.
The whole case for Wharton comes down to one thing: Biden is younger.
By GOP logic, the ancient and dried out remains of Bill Roth should be President of the freaking United States. The GOP's lame strategy has forced me to change my prediction: Biden 58% Wharton 41%
"Now compare Biden’s experience with someone has a passion for this line of work: Wharton has been a member of the Delaware Bar for 27 years." - delawarewatch
oooohhhhh..... 27 years. Golly.
The whole case for Wharton comes down to one thing: Biden is younger.
By GOP logic, the ancient and dried out remains of Bill Roth should be President of the freaking United States. The GOP's lame strategy has forced me to change my prediction: Biden 58% Wharton 41%
Rumsfeld the Diplomat
The news is full of Rummy in Viet Nam making nice with Charlie.
Isn't it bad enough that he is still the secretary of defense? Now we have him going on diplomatic missions. Let's take a moment and remember the last time he was used as a diplomat....
Isn't it bad enough that he is still the secretary of defense? Now we have him going on diplomatic missions. Let's take a moment and remember the last time he was used as a diplomat....
Thursday, June 01, 2006
Pat Morrison
...is announcing her candidacy for State Senate, District 5
Brandywine Hundred
-------------------
Saturday June 3, 2006
10:00 a.m - noon
Woodshaven Kruse Park
Darley Road at Philadelphia Pike, Claymont
I need to do the research on this, but I know two three right now:
1) Pat is a great progressive Democrat,
2) She gets all my respect stepping up, and
3) The more Democratic challengers, the better.
Rock on Pat! I'm good for the max.
Brandywine Hundred
-------------------
Saturday June 3, 2006
10:00 a.m - noon
Woodshaven Kruse Park
Darley Road at Philadelphia Pike, Claymont
I need to do the research on this, but I know two three right now:
1) Pat is a great progressive Democrat,
2) She gets all my respect stepping up, and
3) The more Democratic challengers, the better.
Rock on Pat! I'm good for the max.
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