Herman Cain promotes his business plan: "GREENVILLE, S.C. (AP) -- Republican presidential candidate Herman Cain says his tax-cutting, pro-business philosophy will power the U.S. economy and put unemployed people back to work.
Cain's message was greeted with applause by about six dozen people when he appeared at a center on innovative technology in Greenville, S.C., on Wednesday.
The former CEO of the Godfather's Pizza chain says there should be a maximum tax of 25 percent on company profits and personal income. He also repeated his calls for an end to the capital gains tax and for the nation to get its national debt under control.
Cain says his plan will produce a job for every home."
Wednesday, June 29, 2011
Michele Bachmann stands by slavery comments
Michele Bachmann stands by slavery comments: "Michele Bachmann made her statement and is sticking by it. The candidate for the Republican presidential nomination has said she praises our founding fathers for tirelessly working to end slavery.
ABC's George Stephanopoulos confronted Bachmann -- calling her statement false.
'If you look at one of our founding fathers, John Quincy Adams, that's absolutely true,' Bachmann said."
ABC's George Stephanopoulos confronted Bachmann -- calling her statement false.
'If you look at one of our founding fathers, John Quincy Adams, that's absolutely true,' Bachmann said."
Wednesday, June 22, 2011
Sarah Palin Follows Comedy Rules And Quits Bus Tour Halfway Through
Sarah Palin Follows Comedy Rules And Quits Bus Tour Halfway Through: "Probably NO HUMAN ON EARTH SAW THIS COMING but just as God or common sense or Mohammed long ago wrote in stone that which must come to pass, Sarah Palin has decided to quit her dumb summer vacation RV road trip before it was finished. Quick and pointless and halfway through, like all of Sarah Palin’s activities that are not giving birth. Oh well, we sort of forgot it was even happening? Way to go, Lamestream Media, you failed to remind us for an entire week about Palin’s existence. Was that why we were feeling mysteriously better about life? The last post about the tour on the SarahPAC website is from June 8, so it took someone from the media two whole weeks to notice she wasn’t even blogging about her wild adventures talking to old white people anymore.
After hinting early on that she would also travel to Iowa and South Carolina to terrorize motorists along those lucky highways, the Palins headed back to Alaska before getting that far."
After hinting early on that she would also travel to Iowa and South Carolina to terrorize motorists along those lucky highways, the Palins headed back to Alaska before getting that far."
Sarah Palin says jury duty comes before bus tour - Yahoo! News
Sarah Palin says jury duty comes before bus tour - Yahoo! News: "ANCHORAGE, Alaska (Reuters) – Former Alaska Governor Sarah Palin said on Wednesday she was pausing her 'One Nation' bus tour to answer the call of jury duty and denied media reports her much-hyped multi-state jaunt had been cut short.
'The next leg of the tour continues when the time comes,' she said in a message posted on Facebook. 'In the meantime, no one should jump to conclusions -- certainly not the media with their long track record of getting things wrong or just making things up.'
The 2008 Republican vice presidential nominee has hinted she may run for president in 2012, and many have viewed her bus tour as a possible campaign warm-up should Palin ever declare herself a White House candidate."
'The next leg of the tour continues when the time comes,' she said in a message posted on Facebook. 'In the meantime, no one should jump to conclusions -- certainly not the media with their long track record of getting things wrong or just making things up.'
The 2008 Republican vice presidential nominee has hinted she may run for president in 2012, and many have viewed her bus tour as a possible campaign warm-up should Palin ever declare herself a White House candidate."
RealClearPolitics - Palin Bus Tour Takes Extended Pit Stop
RealClearPolitics - Palin Bus Tour Takes Extended Pit Stop: "Less than a month after she appeared poised to shake up the Republican presidential campaign, former Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin has once again receded from the 2012 limelight.
When Palin launched her 'One Nation' bus tour on Memorial Day amid a swirl of media attention and excitement from her fervent fan base, many political observers who had once dismissed her were reminded of the jolt that her candidacy could provide to what has thus far been a relatively sleepy GOP nominating fight.
As Palin toured historical sites along the East Coast, she was clearly reveling in the tangible excitement she'd ginned up: She even eagerly answered questions -- from the denizens of the 'lamestream' media -- ranging from matters of political process to an array of issues facing the nation.
In an apparent repudiation to those who dismissed her trip as a mere publicity stunt, Palin's openness with reporters about her intentions to visit Iowa and South Carolina -- in addition to her highly scrutinized stop in the first-in-the-nation primary state of New Hampshire -- lent credence to her repeated assertions that she was indeed seriously considering a White House bid."
When Palin launched her 'One Nation' bus tour on Memorial Day amid a swirl of media attention and excitement from her fervent fan base, many political observers who had once dismissed her were reminded of the jolt that her candidacy could provide to what has thus far been a relatively sleepy GOP nominating fight.
As Palin toured historical sites along the East Coast, she was clearly reveling in the tangible excitement she'd ginned up: She even eagerly answered questions -- from the denizens of the 'lamestream' media -- ranging from matters of political process to an array of issues facing the nation.
In an apparent repudiation to those who dismissed her trip as a mere publicity stunt, Palin's openness with reporters about her intentions to visit Iowa and South Carolina -- in addition to her highly scrutinized stop in the first-in-the-nation primary state of New Hampshire -- lent credence to her repeated assertions that she was indeed seriously considering a White House bid."
Tuesday, June 21, 2011
Bristol Palin trashes the McCain family in upcoming memoir - Yahoo! News
Bristol Palin trashes the McCain family in upcoming memoir - Yahoo! News: "John McCain and Sarah Palin have long insisted things are all good between them, even after their losing 2008 presidential effort wound up with a nasty bout finger pointing between loyalists to the two former running mates. But the family members of both candidates are not being so publicly amicable.
As ABC News's Sheila Marikar reports, Bristol Palin trashes the McCain clan in her new upcoming memoir, 'Not Afraid of Life: My Journey So Far.'
It's unclear from Marikar's report whether the 20-year-old Palin daughter e specifically mentions her mother's running mate, her book does slam McCain's wife, Cindy, for acting like 'royalty' and accuses the senator's 26-year-old daughter, Meghan, of being a snobby whiner."
As ABC News's Sheila Marikar reports, Bristol Palin trashes the McCain clan in her new upcoming memoir, 'Not Afraid of Life: My Journey So Far.'
It's unclear from Marikar's report whether the 20-year-old Palin daughter e specifically mentions her mother's running mate, her book does slam McCain's wife, Cindy, for acting like 'royalty' and accuses the senator's 26-year-old daughter, Meghan, of being a snobby whiner."
Piling on Against Planned Parenthood | The Nation
Piling on Against Planned Parenthood | The Nation: "The next videogate episode is out! This one features Planned Parenthood worker Amy Woodruff advising a man posing as a sex trafficker on how to get health care for girls as young as 14 who, he implies, work for him as prostitutes. If the gotcha! is reminiscent of the deceptively edited tapes that cost Shirley Sherrod her job at the US Department of Agriculture or the separate fake pimp scandal that brought down the community organization Acorn, that’s probably because it was produced by antichoice activist Lila Rose—the president of an organization, Live Action, who, since 2006 has collaborated with the mastermind of those previous episodes, James O’Keefe."
Republicans Abuse Confirmation Process in an Attempt to Make Policy | The Nation
Republicans Abuse Confirmation Process in an Attempt to Make Policy | The Nation: "The New York Times reports on the vacancy crisis in the executive branch, and the Senate GOP’s culpability due to its categorical rejection of President Obama’s nominees. To its credit, the Times recognizes that this just isn’t a matter of overzealous but reasonable senatorial prerogative; Republican senators have essentially issued a blanket rejection of all executive branch nominees, and have hijacked the confirmation process in an effort to change or overturn administration policies. It’s not that Republicans can’t see Elizabeth Warren’s qualifications for heading the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau; it’s that the institution exists and Republicans want to destroy it, or at least, weaken it to uselessness."
Monday, June 20, 2011
Barack Obama impersonator hauled offstage at Republican gathering - Telegraph
Barack Obama impersonator hauled offstage at Republican gathering - Telegraph: "The incident is proving an embarrassment for the Republican Party, which faces an uphill battle to attract minority voters in the 2012 election.
The nearly all-white audience at the Republican Leadership Conference in New Orleans laughed raucously when Reggie Brown, a regular Obama impersonator, said that while first lady Michelle Obama celebrated all of the annual Black History Month, Mr Obama, whose father was black and mother was white, celebrated only half.
Forecasting how the Obamas would look later life, he flashed up a photograph of poor and quarrelsome African Americans from the 1970s television show Sanford and Son, an American equivalent of Steptoe and Son."
The nearly all-white audience at the Republican Leadership Conference in New Orleans laughed raucously when Reggie Brown, a regular Obama impersonator, said that while first lady Michelle Obama celebrated all of the annual Black History Month, Mr Obama, whose father was black and mother was white, celebrated only half.
Forecasting how the Obamas would look later life, he flashed up a photograph of poor and quarrelsome African Americans from the 1970s television show Sanford and Son, an American equivalent of Steptoe and Son."
Sunday, June 19, 2011
16-Year-Old Girl Who Challenged Bachmann To Debate Receiving Threats Of Violence, Rape | ThinkProgress
16-Year-Old Girl Who Challenged Bachmann To Debate Receiving Threats Of Violence, Rape | ThinkProgress: "Last week, ThinkProgress reported on high school sophomore Amy Myers, who challenged history-challenged Rep. Michele Bachmann (R-MN) to a public debate on the basic facts of the U.S. Constitution. “Rep. Bachmann, the frequent inability you have shown to accurately and factually present even the most basic information about the United States led me” to the challenge, she wrote in an open letter to the tea party doyenne. Unfortunately, it seems some Bachmann fans haven’t taken Myers’ challenge kindly and are now threatening the teenage girl with violence:"
Saturday, June 18, 2011
GOP Tries to Block Black Farmers' Settlement
GOP Tries to Block Black Farmers' Settlement: "The House of Representatives rejected a last-minute Republican-sponsored attempt Thursday to block the federal government from paying a settlement it reached with black farmers who had been discriminated against by the U.S. Department of Agriculture over several years.
The amendment in the agriculture appropriations bill, introduced late Wednesday by Rep. Steve King (R-Iowa), apparently caught some members of the Congressional Black Caucus by surprise Thursday when it was included in a series of votes taken before lawmakers departed for the weekend."
The amendment in the agriculture appropriations bill, introduced late Wednesday by Rep. Steve King (R-Iowa), apparently caught some members of the Congressional Black Caucus by surprise Thursday when it was included in a series of votes taken before lawmakers departed for the weekend."
Ryan's Shrewd Budget Payday | Story | POWERWALL
Ryan's Shrewd Budget Payday | Story | POWERWALL: "When House Budget Committee Chairman Paul Ryan unveiled the GOP blueprint for cutting government spending, he asked Americans to make sacrifices on everything from Medicare to education, while preserving lucrative tax subsidies for the booming oil, mining and energy industries.
Related story on The Daily Beast: Weiner's fabulous exit package
It turns out a constituency within his own personal investments stood to benefit from those tax breaks, Newsweek and The Daily Beast have learned.
The financial disclosure report Ryan filed with Congress last month and made public this week shows he and his wife, Janna, own stakes in four family companies that lease land in Texas and Oklahoma to the very energy companies that benefit from the tax subsidies in Ryan's budget plan."
Related story on The Daily Beast: Weiner's fabulous exit package
It turns out a constituency within his own personal investments stood to benefit from those tax breaks, Newsweek and The Daily Beast have learned.
The financial disclosure report Ryan filed with Congress last month and made public this week shows he and his wife, Janna, own stakes in four family companies that lease land in Texas and Oklahoma to the very energy companies that benefit from the tax subsidies in Ryan's budget plan."
Anthony Weiner Can Keep Congressional Perks, Gym, Parking, Pension - The Daily Beast
Anthony Weiner Can Keep Congressional Perks, Gym, Parking, Pension - The Daily Beast: "Rep. Anthony Weiner may be resigning in shame, but he’ll leave Capitol Hill with the same golden parachute afforded to all members of Congress who leave public service.
Having been in Congress since 1999 and a staffer in the '80s, Weiner will be eligible for a congressional pension of up to $46,224 each year, according to the National Taxpayers Union, which calculates all congressional pensions. He’ll eventually be eligible to collect the balance of his Congressional Thrift Savings Plan, which is currently $216,011. And he’ll be able to keep his high-quality health-care package, at his own expense, until November 2012."
Having been in Congress since 1999 and a staffer in the '80s, Weiner will be eligible for a congressional pension of up to $46,224 each year, according to the National Taxpayers Union, which calculates all congressional pensions. He’ll eventually be eligible to collect the balance of his Congressional Thrift Savings Plan, which is currently $216,011. And he’ll be able to keep his high-quality health-care package, at his own expense, until November 2012."
GOP blocks Democrats’ jobs outsourcing bill – CNN Political Ticker - CNN.com Blogs
GOP blocks Democrats’ jobs outsourcing bill – CNN Political Ticker - CNN.com Blogs: "Washington (CNN) – Senate Republicans successfully blocked a bill from coming to the Senate floor Tuesday that Democrats claim would help keep American jobs from going overseas.
Republicans call it nothing more than a pre-election political ploy.
The Democratic bill would have ended certain tax breaks for companies expanding overseas while giving new tax incentives to businesses bringing jobs home.
Democratic sources tell CNN they knew all along this measure would not make it very far. That was beside the point.
The point, Democratic strategists candidly admit, was to use the last few days of the congressional session before the election to try to highlight one of the few jobs-related issues Democrats feel they may be able to use against Republicans: outsourcing."
Republicans call it nothing more than a pre-election political ploy.
The Democratic bill would have ended certain tax breaks for companies expanding overseas while giving new tax incentives to businesses bringing jobs home.
Democratic sources tell CNN they knew all along this measure would not make it very far. That was beside the point.
The point, Democratic strategists candidly admit, was to use the last few days of the congressional session before the election to try to highlight one of the few jobs-related issues Democrats feel they may be able to use against Republicans: outsourcing."
Friday, June 17, 2011
State-Level Assaults On Abortion Rights (PHOTOS)
State-Level Assaults On Abortion Rights (PHOTOS): "WASHINGTON -- Republicans took charge of 25 state legislatures and 29 governors' offices in the 2010 elections, promising to focus on the sputtering economy and unemployment crisis. In the first legislative session of 2011, however, GOP lawmakers introduced an unprecedented number of bills restricting abortion rights for women.
As The Huffington Post has previously reported, more than 900 bills concerning reproductive health were brought forward before the end of March. By contrast, according to NARAL Pro-Choice America, only 175 anti-choice bills were moving through the states at the same time a year ago.
'We're getting hammered on so many fronts,' said Elizabeth Nash, a policy expert for the Guttmacher Institute, a reproductive health research organization. 'Every day is another nail in the coffin for Roe [v. Wade].'"
As The Huffington Post has previously reported, more than 900 bills concerning reproductive health were brought forward before the end of March. By contrast, according to NARAL Pro-Choice America, only 175 anti-choice bills were moving through the states at the same time a year ago.
'We're getting hammered on so many fronts,' said Elizabeth Nash, a policy expert for the Guttmacher Institute, a reproductive health research organization. 'Every day is another nail in the coffin for Roe [v. Wade].'"
Wednesday, June 15, 2011
Crackdown on Illegal Labor Intensifies - WSJ.com
Crackdown on Illegal Labor Intensifies - WSJ.com: "The Obama administration intensified a crackdown on employers of illegal immigrants, notifying another 1,000 companies in all 50 states Wednesday the government plans to inspect their hiring records.
Businesses across the U.S. that rely on low-skilled labor are working to stave off Immigration and Customs Enforcement audits, which can lead to the loss of large numbers of employees, reduced productivity and legal expenses.
Wednesday's surge in so-called silent raids drew criticism from both the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and immigrant advocates.
It brought to 2,338 the number of companies audited by ICE in the fiscal year that began Oct. 1 and topped the prior year's record of 2,196. The audits, affecting such businesses as garment makers, produce growers and fast-food chains, result in the firing of every illegal immigrant found on a company's payroll."
Businesses across the U.S. that rely on low-skilled labor are working to stave off Immigration and Customs Enforcement audits, which can lead to the loss of large numbers of employees, reduced productivity and legal expenses.
Wednesday's surge in so-called silent raids drew criticism from both the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and immigrant advocates.
It brought to 2,338 the number of companies audited by ICE in the fiscal year that began Oct. 1 and topped the prior year's record of 2,196. The audits, affecting such businesses as garment makers, produce growers and fast-food chains, result in the firing of every illegal immigrant found on a company's payroll."
The Five Smartest Congressional Bills You've Never Heard Of | The Nation
The Five Smartest Congressional Bills You've Never Heard Of | The Nation: "During any given Congressional term, literally thousands of proposals never make it past the committee stage of the legislative process. In recent years, less than 5 percent of all bills introduced ultimately became law. The scope of proposals in Congress garnering considerable media attention is similarly narrow. The pieces of legislation that attract the most publicity from the beltway media—like Paul Ryan’s radically unpopular plan to scrap Medicare—tend to drown out more sensible ideas that hardly stand any chance of enactment without public pressure on lawmakers to move the agenda forward."
Most offensive ad yet: Hahn's Homeboyz - David Catanese - POLITICO.com
Most offensive ad yet: Hahn's Homeboyz - David Catanese - POLITICO.com: "Turn Right USA is up with an incredibly incendiary web ad that accuses California congressional candidate Janice Hahn of enabling gang members to get out jail 'so that they can rape and kill again.'
The 99-second above spot speaks for itself, and is not affiliated with Republican Craig Huey's campaign, but the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee has already called on the tea partier to condemn it.
'Craig Huey must condemn this offensive and sexist ad and demand that ad makers immediately take it down. This ad does not reflect the values of California's hardworking women and men. Craig Huey's silence should send a chilling message to our mothers, sisters and daughters that this kind of outrageous and sexist material is tolerated,' said Jennifer Crider, deputy executive director of the DCCC."
The 99-second above spot speaks for itself, and is not affiliated with Republican Craig Huey's campaign, but the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee has already called on the tea partier to condemn it.
'Craig Huey must condemn this offensive and sexist ad and demand that ad makers immediately take it down. This ad does not reflect the values of California's hardworking women and men. Craig Huey's silence should send a chilling message to our mothers, sisters and daughters that this kind of outrageous and sexist material is tolerated,' said Jennifer Crider, deputy executive director of the DCCC."
North Carolina GOP Overrides Veto, Axes Planned Parenthood Funding
North Carolina GOP Overrides Veto, Axes Planned Parenthood Funding: "Republican state representatives in North Carolina voted to override Democratic Gov. Bev Perdue's veto of the state budget Wednesday morning, ensuring that a provision to strip all federal and state money from Planned Parenthood will take effect on July 1. North Carolina is now the third state, after Indiana and Kansas, to defund the family planning provider because it also provides abortions.
Planned Parenthood of North Carolina (PPNC), which has nine clinics across the state, provides affordable birth control, preventative health care and family planning services to over 25,000 men and women. Without the $434,000 a year it usually receives in state and federal funds, Planned Parenthood says it will now have to axe its teen pregnancy prevention and adolescent parenting programs and force its low-income patients to pay out of pocket."
Planned Parenthood of North Carolina (PPNC), which has nine clinics across the state, provides affordable birth control, preventative health care and family planning services to over 25,000 men and women. Without the $434,000 a year it usually receives in state and federal funds, Planned Parenthood says it will now have to axe its teen pregnancy prevention and adolescent parenting programs and force its low-income patients to pay out of pocket."
House members to sue Obama administration over Libya mission - CNN.com
House members to sue Obama administration over Libya mission - CNN.com: "Washington (CNN) -- A bipartisan group of House members will file a lawsuit Wednesday challenging U.S. participation in the Libya military mission.
Meanwhile, President Barack Obama is set to defend U.S. military involvement in Libya to Congress, according to the White House.
Obama to make case for Libya action
The administration will provide a report to address a June 3 House resolution that raised questions about the president's goal in Libya, how he hopes to achieve that goal, why he has not sought congressional authorization for involving U.S. troops abroad and how much the conflict will ultimately cost, National Security Council spokesman Tommy Vietor said."
Meanwhile, President Barack Obama is set to defend U.S. military involvement in Libya to Congress, according to the White House.
Obama to make case for Libya action
The administration will provide a report to address a June 3 House resolution that raised questions about the president's goal in Libya, how he hopes to achieve that goal, why he has not sought congressional authorization for involving U.S. troops abroad and how much the conflict will ultimately cost, National Security Council spokesman Tommy Vietor said."
Tuesday, June 14, 2011
Anthony Weiner Photos Scandal: New Pictures Surface, Congressman Says He Won't Resign (PHOTO) [UPDATED]
Anthony Weiner Photos Scandal: New Pictures Surface, Congressman Says He Won't Resign (PHOTO) [UPDATED]: "UPDATE: A source tells the New York Daily News that Rep. Anthony Weiner (D-N.Y.) is considering resigning his post in congress. Over the past week, the Democratic lawmaker has resisted calls from both sides of the aisle to step down. Below, the original story that appeared in this post.
New photographs of a partially-nude Rep. Anthony Weiner (D-N.Y.) surfaced on Sunday in a report from TMZ.com.
The dispatch of pictures appear to have been taken by Weiner himself in what is said to be the House Members Gym. TMZ.com reports that it has confirmed the location of where the photos were taken by the lawmaker on his Blackberry and says that it has confirmed they were sent to at"
New photographs of a partially-nude Rep. Anthony Weiner (D-N.Y.) surfaced on Sunday in a report from TMZ.com.
The dispatch of pictures appear to have been taken by Weiner himself in what is said to be the House Members Gym. TMZ.com reports that it has confirmed the location of where the photos were taken by the lawmaker on his Blackberry and says that it has confirmed they were sent to at"
Obama announces plan to cut government waste - Yahoo! News
Obama announces plan to cut government waste - Yahoo! News: "WASHINGTON – President Barack Obama announced a new effort Monday to eliminate government waste and named his vice president to lead it.
Obama signed an executive order that creates an oversight board to work with federal departments and agencies to cut waste and improve performance. Vice President Joe Biden will meet regularly with Cabinet secretaries to chart progress.
Monday's announcement comes as the White House grapples for ways to both boost sluggish economic growth and chip away at the deficit.
'As we work to tackle the budget deficit, we need to step up our game,' Obama said in a video announcing the Campaign to Cut Waste. 'No amount of waste is acceptable — not when it's your money, not at a time when so many Americans are already cutting back.'"
Obama signed an executive order that creates an oversight board to work with federal departments and agencies to cut waste and improve performance. Vice President Joe Biden will meet regularly with Cabinet secretaries to chart progress.
Monday's announcement comes as the White House grapples for ways to both boost sluggish economic growth and chip away at the deficit.
'As we work to tackle the budget deficit, we need to step up our game,' Obama said in a video announcing the Campaign to Cut Waste. 'No amount of waste is acceptable — not when it's your money, not at a time when so many Americans are already cutting back.'"
Saturday, June 11, 2011
Anthony Weiner Seeks Treatment, Requests Leave Of Absence As Top Democrats Call For Resignation
Anthony Weiner Seeks Treatment, Requests Leave Of Absence As Top Democrats Call For Resignation: "WASHINGTON -- House Democratic leadership issued a deafening rebuke of Rep. Anthony Weiner (D-N.Y.) midday Saturday, calling on the embattled New York Democrat to resign from his post amid growing controversy over his lewd online activity.
In successive statements, Democratic National Committee Chairwoman Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D-Fla.), Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee Chair Steve Israel (D-N.Y.) and House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) urged Weiner to conduct his rehabilitation outside the confines of public office. Rep. Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.) the ranking member of the Budget Committee and former DCCC head, followed with the same request 45 minutes later."
In successive statements, Democratic National Committee Chairwoman Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D-Fla.), Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee Chair Steve Israel (D-N.Y.) and House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) urged Weiner to conduct his rehabilitation outside the confines of public office. Rep. Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.) the ranking member of the Budget Committee and former DCCC head, followed with the same request 45 minutes later."
Friday, June 10, 2011
Friend: Sarah Palin Is Ignoring Elisabeth Hasselbeck | PopEater.com
Friend: Sarah Palin Is Ignoring Elisabeth Hasselbeck | PopEater.com: "Elisabeth Hasselbeck, who once dutifully campaigned alongside Sarah Palin during her run for higher office in 2008, is no longer feeling the love for the likely presidential candidate, in fact, a close friend of the 'View' star reveals the two haven't spoken in months.
'I think Elisabeth is a good friend. She remembers birthdays and even with a busy schedule always takes time to stay in touch with her girlfriends,' a pal tells me. 'But Sarah has let her down. Elisabeth has reached out to her several times but she never responds.'
It's gotten so grating on Elisabeth that, according to my source, 'she has stopped trying all together and doesn't care who knows.'"
'I think Elisabeth is a good friend. She remembers birthdays and even with a busy schedule always takes time to stay in touch with her girlfriends,' a pal tells me. 'But Sarah has let her down. Elisabeth has reached out to her several times but she never responds.'
It's gotten so grating on Elisabeth that, according to my source, 'she has stopped trying all together and doesn't care who knows.'"
Sarah Palin and John McCain's Courtship Detailed In Emails
Sarah Palin and John McCain's Courtship Detailed In Emails: "NEW YORK -- Long before the glory days of the Republican convention, the exultant crowds greeting them in venues across the country, the sniping and backtalk in the heat of the campaign and the post-defeat blame game, Sarah Palin and John McCain were engaged in a subtle courtship dance, much of which is revealed in the email document dump released today by the state of Alaska.
Months before Senator McCain picked her as his running mate, then-Governor Palin was privately expressing interest in the post. In an email sent on June 4, 2008, her aide Ivy Frye noted that McCain was being pushed to choose Palin for the VP slot.
'The second and third articles I've seen on vp buzz just today,' wrote Frye. 'Pretty cool.'"
Months before Senator McCain picked her as his running mate, then-Governor Palin was privately expressing interest in the post. In an email sent on June 4, 2008, her aide Ivy Frye noted that McCain was being pushed to choose Palin for the VP slot.
'The second and third articles I've seen on vp buzz just today,' wrote Frye. 'Pretty cool.'"
Thursday, June 9, 2011
Appeals court judges skeptical of government's health care case - CNN.com
Appeals court judges skeptical of government's health care case - CNN.com: "(CNN) -- A federal appeals court in Atlanta was openly skeptical Wednesday that the sweeping health care reform law championed by President Barack Obama would survive constitutional scrutiny.
A three-judge panel heard arguments in a massive lawsuit brought by Florida and 25 other states.
The 11th Circuit Court of Appeals was the latest of three similar federal panels across the country to hear challenges by states and private groups to the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act. Separate rulings from those courts in coming months will form the basis of a certain appeal to the Supreme Court, which could offer the final word on the landmark legislation, perhaps in time for the 2012 election year."
A three-judge panel heard arguments in a massive lawsuit brought by Florida and 25 other states.
The 11th Circuit Court of Appeals was the latest of three similar federal panels across the country to hear challenges by states and private groups to the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act. Separate rulings from those courts in coming months will form the basis of a certain appeal to the Supreme Court, which could offer the final word on the landmark legislation, perhaps in time for the 2012 election year."
Newt Gingrich 2012 Senior Campaign Aides Resign En Masse
Newt Gingrich 2012 Senior Campaign Aides Resign En Masse: "WASHINGTON -- Republican presidential hopeful Newt Gingrich's campaign manager, senior strategists and key aides in early delegate-selection states all resigned on Thursday, a mass exodus that leaves his hopes of winning the Republican nomination in tatters.
Rick Tyler, Gingrich's spokesman, said he, campaign manager Rob Johnson and senior strategists had resigned, along with aides in the early primary and caucus states of Iowa, New Hampshire and South Carolina.
Other officials said Gingrich was informed that his entire high command was quitting in a meeting earlier in the day. They cited differences over the direction of the campaign.
'We had a different vision for victory,' Tyler told The Associated Press. 'And since we couldn't resolve that difference, I didn't feel I could be useful in serving him.'"
Rick Tyler, Gingrich's spokesman, said he, campaign manager Rob Johnson and senior strategists had resigned, along with aides in the early primary and caucus states of Iowa, New Hampshire and South Carolina.
Other officials said Gingrich was informed that his entire high command was quitting in a meeting earlier in the day. They cited differences over the direction of the campaign.
'We had a different vision for victory,' Tyler told The Associated Press. 'And since we couldn't resolve that difference, I didn't feel I could be useful in serving him.'"
Exclusive: Clinton in talks about possible move to World Bank - Yahoo! News
Exclusive: Clinton in talks about possible move to World Bank - Yahoo! News: "WASHINGTON (Reuters) – Secretary of State Hillary Clinton has been in discussions with the White House about leaving her job next year to become head of the World Bank, sources familiar with the discussions said on Thursday.
The former first lady and onetime political rival to President Barack Obama quickly became one of the most influential members of his Cabinet after she began her tenure at State in early 2009.
She has said publicly she did not plan to stay on at the State Department for more than four years. Associates say Clinton has expressed interest in having the World Bank job should the bank's current president, Robert Zoellick, leave at the end of his term, in the middle of 2012.
'Hillary Clinton wants the job,' said one source who knows the secretary well."
The former first lady and onetime political rival to President Barack Obama quickly became one of the most influential members of his Cabinet after she began her tenure at State in early 2009.
She has said publicly she did not plan to stay on at the State Department for more than four years. Associates say Clinton has expressed interest in having the World Bank job should the bank's current president, Robert Zoellick, leave at the end of his term, in the middle of 2012.
'Hillary Clinton wants the job,' said one source who knows the secretary well."
Federal Judges Raise Questions About ObamaCare Mandate - FoxNews.com
Federal Judges Raise Questions About ObamaCare Mandate - FoxNews.com: "ATLANTA, GA. – The public policy and legal fight over the legitimacy of President Obama’s historic 2010 health care overhaul took sharp focus in an ornate federal courtroom in Atlanta on Wednesday with two-and-a-half hours of arguments that may ultimately serve as a preview of what’s to come at the Supreme Court.
The Obama administration was faced with the difficult task of convincing at least two of the three federal judges hearing an appeal to overturn a January ruling invalidating the entire heath care law.
“Clearly, we believe the most difficult issue in the case is the individual mandate,” Eleventh Circuit U.S. Court of Appeals Judge Joel Dubina announced at the outset. Indeed, most of the argument time focused on whether the law’s requirement for nearly all Americans to purchase health insurance is constitutional."
The Obama administration was faced with the difficult task of convincing at least two of the three federal judges hearing an appeal to overturn a January ruling invalidating the entire heath care law.
“Clearly, we believe the most difficult issue in the case is the individual mandate,” Eleventh Circuit U.S. Court of Appeals Judge Joel Dubina announced at the outset. Indeed, most of the argument time focused on whether the law’s requirement for nearly all Americans to purchase health insurance is constitutional."
Alabama Immigration Law Signed By Governor Robert Bentley
Alabama Immigration Law Signed By Governor Robert Bentley: "MONTGOMERY, Ala. — Alabama's governor on Thursday signed a tough new illegal immigration crackdown that contains provisions requiring public schools to determine students' immigration status and making it a crime to knowingly give an illegal immigrant a ride.
The bill also allows police to arrest anyone suspected of being an illegal immigrant if they're stopped for any other reason. Alabama employers also are now required to use a federal system called E-Verify to determine if new workers are in the country legally.
Gov. Robert Bentley said the law is the nation's toughest, and groups including the American Civil Liberties Union and the Montgomery-based Southern Poverty Law Center agree. The groups say they plan to challenge it."
The bill also allows police to arrest anyone suspected of being an illegal immigrant if they're stopped for any other reason. Alabama employers also are now required to use a federal system called E-Verify to determine if new workers are in the country legally.
Gov. Robert Bentley said the law is the nation's toughest, and groups including the American Civil Liberties Union and the Montgomery-based Southern Poverty Law Center agree. The groups say they plan to challenge it."
AP Source: Counterterrorism chief resigns
AP Source: Counterterrorism chief resigns: "WASHINGTON — A U.S. official says the head of the top counterterrorism agency is resigning after nearly five years at his post, now that one of the nation's major counterterror goals has been met with the killing of Osama bin Laden last month.
Michael Leiter presided over a reorganization of how counterterrorism information is shared, after the 2009 attempted bombing of a Detroit-bound airliner was blamed on a failure to share intelligence among government agencies.
The official says with bin Laden dead, Leiter wants to leave on a high note. There's no word yet on a replacement for Leiter at the National Counterterrorism Center. The official spoke on condition of anonymity because the White House has not announced the resignation."
Michael Leiter presided over a reorganization of how counterterrorism information is shared, after the 2009 attempted bombing of a Detroit-bound airliner was blamed on a failure to share intelligence among government agencies.
The official says with bin Laden dead, Leiter wants to leave on a high note. There's no word yet on a replacement for Leiter at the National Counterterrorism Center. The official spoke on condition of anonymity because the White House has not announced the resignation."
Virginia Thomas On 2012, Herman Cain & Michele Bachmann (VIDEO)
Virginia Thomas On 2012, Herman Cain & Michele Bachmann (VIDEO): "Daily Caller special corresponden Virginia Thomas weighed in on the race shaping up for the Republican presidential nomination during an interview with Newsmax at the Faith and Freedom Conference in the nation's capital last weekend.
The wife of Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas addressed how she anticipates the Tea Party will influence the trajectory of the contest in video of her remarks published online on Wednesday.
“I think it’s important that both the Tea Party movement and grassroots activists come together with the establishment and we see as little division as possible,” she explained. 'In order to have the most success, we need to build bridges between the establishment conservative community and the Republican community and the grassroots community. I hope together we can have an effective force in 2012.”"
The wife of Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas addressed how she anticipates the Tea Party will influence the trajectory of the contest in video of her remarks published online on Wednesday.
“I think it’s important that both the Tea Party movement and grassroots activists come together with the establishment and we see as little division as possible,” she explained. 'In order to have the most success, we need to build bridges between the establishment conservative community and the Republican community and the grassroots community. I hope together we can have an effective force in 2012.”"
Wednesday, June 8, 2011
Rush Limbaugh Goes Off On Caller Who Mentions His Viagra Scandal
Rush Limbaugh Goes Off On Caller Who Mentions His Viagra Scandal: "Rush Limbaugh unleashed his ire when a caller on his Tuesday show asked him about his 2006 Viagra scandal.
In June of that year, Limbaugh was detained in a Florida airport after returning from a trip to the Dominican Republican with Viagra that he did not have a prescription for. On Tuesday, after he had talked about the Anthony Weiner scandal for some time, a caller asked him, 'how is this different from you going to the sexual tourist destination of Dominican Republic with a bottle of Viagra?'
Limbaugh proceeded to tear into the caller for the next few minutes.
'What you describe about me isn't true,' he said. 'You are repeating Internet rumors based in hatred and misinformation.'
He told the caller that he was a 'glittering jewel of colossal ignorance' and that he was trying to excuse 'depravity' and get his 'jolling' by believing 'bs.' He also told the man that it was people like him who were 'responsible for the precarious position this great nation finds itself in.'"
In June of that year, Limbaugh was detained in a Florida airport after returning from a trip to the Dominican Republican with Viagra that he did not have a prescription for. On Tuesday, after he had talked about the Anthony Weiner scandal for some time, a caller asked him, 'how is this different from you going to the sexual tourist destination of Dominican Republic with a bottle of Viagra?'
Limbaugh proceeded to tear into the caller for the next few minutes.
'What you describe about me isn't true,' he said. 'You are repeating Internet rumors based in hatred and misinformation.'
He told the caller that he was a 'glittering jewel of colossal ignorance' and that he was trying to excuse 'depravity' and get his 'jolling' by believing 'bs.' He also told the man that it was people like him who were 'responsible for the precarious position this great nation finds itself in.'"
Swipe Fee Reform: Banks Lose, Merchants Prevail In Senate Vote
Swipe Fee Reform: Banks Lose, Merchants Prevail In Senate Vote: "WASHINGTON -- The six-month Senate fight over debit card swipe fees is finally over. The banks lost.
An amendment pushed by Sen. Jon Tester (D-Mont.) that would have delayed implementation of a law that caps the fees banks can charge merchants for swiping debit cards picked up 54 votes, with 45 voting against. It fell six short of the 60 needed to break a filibuster. But in the year since the Senate last voted, the banks managed to shave 19 votes off the merchants' total. In May 2010, the Senate approved interchange reform by a 64-33 margin, setting a cap at twelve cents per transaction. Sen. Joe Lieberman (I-Conn.) was the only Senator who did not vote, but in a Tuesday interview with HuffPost, he indicated that he was supporting Tester and the banks."
An amendment pushed by Sen. Jon Tester (D-Mont.) that would have delayed implementation of a law that caps the fees banks can charge merchants for swiping debit cards picked up 54 votes, with 45 voting against. It fell six short of the 60 needed to break a filibuster. But in the year since the Senate last voted, the banks managed to shave 19 votes off the merchants' total. In May 2010, the Senate approved interchange reform by a 64-33 margin, setting a cap at twelve cents per transaction. Sen. Joe Lieberman (I-Conn.) was the only Senator who did not vote, but in a Tuesday interview with HuffPost, he indicated that he was supporting Tester and the banks."
Fitzgerald embraces idea of running fake Democrats in recall elections - JSOnline
Fitzgerald embraces idea of running fake Democrats in recall elections - JSOnline: "Madison -- Senate Majority Leader Scott Fitzgerald fully endorsed the idea Tuesday of fielding fake Democrats in recall elections against Republicans in an effort to delay the general elections.
'It gives us another month to campaign,' said the Republican from Juneau.
Recall elections for six Republican senators are scheduled for July 12. If there are multiple candidates from the same party in any of those elections, the July 12 election becomes a primary election and a general recall election will be scheduled for Aug. 9.
Fitzgerald said Republicans would be recruited to run as Democrats -- likely in all six races -- so that the elections would be pushed back a month. He said he was persuaded by campaign staff that it was a good idea and consulted with state election officials to make sure it was allowed.
Fitzgerald said the idea was developed in response to a fake Republican running last year against Rep. Bob Ziegelbauer of Manitowoc. Ziegelbauer was a Democrat who long voted with Republicans; he quit the Democratic Party last year and ran for re-election as an independent."
'It gives us another month to campaign,' said the Republican from Juneau.
Recall elections for six Republican senators are scheduled for July 12. If there are multiple candidates from the same party in any of those elections, the July 12 election becomes a primary election and a general recall election will be scheduled for Aug. 9.
Fitzgerald said Republicans would be recruited to run as Democrats -- likely in all six races -- so that the elections would be pushed back a month. He said he was persuaded by campaign staff that it was a good idea and consulted with state election officials to make sure it was allowed.
Fitzgerald said the idea was developed in response to a fake Republican running last year against Rep. Bob Ziegelbauer of Manitowoc. Ziegelbauer was a Democrat who long voted with Republicans; he quit the Democratic Party last year and ran for re-election as an independent."
Signs of desperation among Wisconsin Republicans? - The Plum Line - The Washington Post
Signs of desperation among Wisconsin Republicans? - The Plum Line - The Washington Post: "As you may have heard, Wisconsin Republicans were recently nabbed discussing ways of meddling in Dem primary politics for the explicit purpose of delaying recall elections against vulnerable GOP state senators. The idea was that putting off the elections might give them more time to mobilize and perhaps prevent them from getting booted from office, and the head of Wisconsin state senators has actually embraced the move."
White House Pushes Back Against McKinsey Health Care Report - The Note
White House Pushes Back Against McKinsey Health Care Report - The Note: "ABC News’ Huma Khan reports: The White House is pushing back against a report by consulting firm McKinsey & Company that states 30 percent of employers will “definitely or probably” stop offering health insurance coverage to employees after 2014.
The Obama administration argues that the report is an outlier, and cites studies by the Rand Corporation, The Urban Institute and Mercer that found that businesses would not change their insurance programs substantially as a result of the Affordable Care Act.
“Economists agree that employers offer health insurance to help attract and retain the most talented employees,” White House Deputy Chief of Staff Nancy-Ann DeParle wrote in a blog. “Employers will continue to seek out top talent: and the new law makes it easier for them to do so by tackling health costs and supporting small businesses. Additionally, dropping coverage is unlikely to save money for employers.”"
The Obama administration argues that the report is an outlier, and cites studies by the Rand Corporation, The Urban Institute and Mercer that found that businesses would not change their insurance programs substantially as a result of the Affordable Care Act.
“Economists agree that employers offer health insurance to help attract and retain the most talented employees,” White House Deputy Chief of Staff Nancy-Ann DeParle wrote in a blog. “Employers will continue to seek out top talent: and the new law makes it easier for them to do so by tackling health costs and supporting small businesses. Additionally, dropping coverage is unlikely to save money for employers.”"
Rep. Anthony Weiner penis exposed in photo as sexting scandal threatens congressman's career
Rep. Anthony Weiner penis exposed in photo as sexting scandal threatens congressman's career: "Creepy congressman Anthony Weiner's junk is on the web.
Two days after the pervy pol admitted to sexting a half dozen women and lying about it, a photo of what Weiner was bragging about to the girls went whizzing through the blogosphere.
It happened after conservative blogger Andrew Breitbart made the mistake of showing off the photo on his cell phone to Sirius XM shock jocks Opie and Anthony.
Breitbart, who claims to have gotten the photo of Weiner's weiner from one of the congressman's computer conquests, Meagan Broussard, had been reluctant to release it."
Two days after the pervy pol admitted to sexting a half dozen women and lying about it, a photo of what Weiner was bragging about to the girls went whizzing through the blogosphere.
It happened after conservative blogger Andrew Breitbart made the mistake of showing off the photo on his cell phone to Sirius XM shock jocks Opie and Anthony.
Breitbart, who claims to have gotten the photo of Weiner's weiner from one of the congressman's computer conquests, Meagan Broussard, had been reluctant to release it."
The Palin-Bachmann Fight We've All Been Waiting For - Yahoo! News
The Palin-Bachmann Fight We've All Been Waiting For - Yahoo! News: "Michele Bachmann's top adviser Ed Rollins denounced fellow brown-haired Tea-Partying maybe-presidential candidate Sarah Palin as unserious Tuesday, offering maybe the first sign that the Palin-Bachmann spat so many have been waiting for is finally upon us. 'Sarah has not been serious over the last couple of years,' Rollins said on Fox News' Brian Kilmeade's radio show. 'She got the vice presidential thing handed to her. She didn't go to work in the sense of trying gain more substance. She gave up her governorship.'
Rollins then praised the work ethic of his boss. 'You know, I think Michele Bachmann and others have worked hard."
Rollins then praised the work ethic of his boss. 'You know, I think Michele Bachmann and others have worked hard."
Tuesday, June 7, 2011
Anthony Weiner faces ethics probe as more accusers emerge | The Ticket - Yahoo! News
Anthony Weiner faces ethics probe as more accusers emerge | The Ticket - Yahoo! News: "Can Anthony Weiner survive?
That's the big question a day after the New York congressman admitted to lying about sending a lewd photo of his crotch to a Seattle college student via Twitter. In a news conference yesterday, Weiner owned up to sending the photo and admitted that he'd sent similar pictures to six different women he met online over the last three years.
Yet Weiner's biggest problem could be the continuing drip of revelations as some of the women he allegedly communicated have come forward to tell their side of the story. So far, three woman have claimed online relationships with Weiner, hinting they have more pictures and hundreds of lurid texts that could prove to be even more politically embarrassing to the congressman:"
That's the big question a day after the New York congressman admitted to lying about sending a lewd photo of his crotch to a Seattle college student via Twitter. In a news conference yesterday, Weiner owned up to sending the photo and admitted that he'd sent similar pictures to six different women he met online over the last three years.
Yet Weiner's biggest problem could be the continuing drip of revelations as some of the women he allegedly communicated have come forward to tell their side of the story. So far, three woman have claimed online relationships with Weiner, hinting they have more pictures and hundreds of lurid texts that could prove to be even more politically embarrassing to the congressman:"
Obama's rating on economy hits new low: poll - Yahoo! News
Obama's rating on economy hits new low: poll - Yahoo! News: "WASHINGTON (Reuters) - Americans' disapproval of how President Barack Obama is handling the economy and its growing budget deficit has reached new highs amid broad frustration over the slow pace of economic recovery, according to a Washington Post-ABC New poll released on Tuesday.
The ratings boost Obama received after the killing of Osama bin Laden has dissipated with his job approval rating back to 47 percent. Forty-nine percent disapprove of his performance.
Obama's approval rating bounced to 56 immediately after bin Laden was killed last month.
Fifty-nine percent, a new high, gave Obama negative marks for his handling of the economy, up from 55 percent a month earlier.
Obama's approval rating on the deficit issue hit a new low of 33 percent, down 6 points since April.
The state of the economy poses a huge challenge for the president, whose re-election in 2012 may depend on his ability to convince voters that his economic policies have been successful."
The ratings boost Obama received after the killing of Osama bin Laden has dissipated with his job approval rating back to 47 percent. Forty-nine percent disapprove of his performance.
Obama's approval rating bounced to 56 immediately after bin Laden was killed last month.
Fifty-nine percent, a new high, gave Obama negative marks for his handling of the economy, up from 55 percent a month earlier.
Obama's approval rating on the deficit issue hit a new low of 33 percent, down 6 points since April.
The state of the economy poses a huge challenge for the president, whose re-election in 2012 may depend on his ability to convince voters that his economic policies have been successful."
Anthony Weiner Takes 'Full Responsibility' ... Whatever That Means : Monkey See : NPR
Anthony Weiner Takes 'Full Responsibility' ... Whatever That Means : Monkey See : NPR: "What does it mean to 'take responsibility'?
This question came up a few weeks ago when Arnold Schwarzenegger said he would 'take responsibility for the hurt [he] had caused' by fathering a child with a member of his household staff and keeping it a secret from his wife for more than 10 years. It returned yesterday when Rep. Anthony Weiner announced in a teary, cringe-inducing press conference that yes, he tweeted a lewd photo of himself to a woman last week in a misbegotten attempt to send it to her privately, and then lied repeatedly while trying to keep people from finding out. Oh, and by the way — she wasn't the only one.
'I came here to accept the full responsibility for what I've done,' he said. The phrase is almost always one of the basic elements of the confessional press conference, and even more so the sex-confessional press conference. But what does it mean?"
This question came up a few weeks ago when Arnold Schwarzenegger said he would 'take responsibility for the hurt [he] had caused' by fathering a child with a member of his household staff and keeping it a secret from his wife for more than 10 years. It returned yesterday when Rep. Anthony Weiner announced in a teary, cringe-inducing press conference that yes, he tweeted a lewd photo of himself to a woman last week in a misbegotten attempt to send it to her privately, and then lied repeatedly while trying to keep people from finding out. Oh, and by the way — she wasn't the only one.
'I came here to accept the full responsibility for what I've done,' he said. The phrase is almost always one of the basic elements of the confessional press conference, and even more so the sex-confessional press conference. But what does it mean?"
The Nation: The Republican They Always Wanted : NPR
The Nation: The Republican They Always Wanted : NPR: "John Nichols is a political blogger. His posts have been circulated internationally, quoted in numerous books and mentioned in debates on the floor of Congress.
Wisconsin Governor Scott Walker, a political careerist who has never taken one elected office without beginning to position himself to run for the next, made a wild play for the national stage just weeks after being sworn in last winter as a Republican governor with Republican majorities in both chambers of the Wisconsin legislature.
The former senator is focused on fighting the extreme agenda of a Republican governor is his home state — and the compromises of members of both parties in Washington. But his increased public profile has progressives talking about running him for an open Senate seat, or perhaps in a recall election against anti-union Governor Scott Walker."
Wisconsin Governor Scott Walker, a political careerist who has never taken one elected office without beginning to position himself to run for the next, made a wild play for the national stage just weeks after being sworn in last winter as a Republican governor with Republican majorities in both chambers of the Wisconsin legislature.
The former senator is focused on fighting the extreme agenda of a Republican governor is his home state — and the compromises of members of both parties in Washington. But his increased public profile has progressives talking about running him for an open Senate seat, or perhaps in a recall election against anti-union Governor Scott Walker."
Monday, June 6, 2011
Shirtless Politicians: Anthony Weiner Not Alone (PHOTOS)
Shirtless Politicians: Anthony Weiner Not Alone (PHOTOS): "Anthony Weiner probably wishes his shirtless photo -- among other images -- hadn't been made public. But that beefcake picture actually puts the Democratic congressman in select company.
Weiner (D-N.Y.) has joined the ranks of bare-chested lawmakers and world leaders who have been photographed without a shirt.
The stripped down list of stripped down politicians includes American presidents like John F. Kennedy, Ronald Reagan, Bill Clinton and Barack Obama.
Overseas leaders are no stranger to overexposure -- French President Nicolas Sarkozy and Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin have both been photographed topless.
Shirtless photos can give a politician a boost, as they did when Americans were surprised to see then president-elect Obama's fit physique during a beach vacation.
Or they can lead to a politician's downfall, as was the case for former Rep. Chris Lee (R-N.Y.), who resigned after sending shirtless photos of himself to a woman via a Craigslist ad."
Weiner (D-N.Y.) has joined the ranks of bare-chested lawmakers and world leaders who have been photographed without a shirt.
The stripped down list of stripped down politicians includes American presidents like John F. Kennedy, Ronald Reagan, Bill Clinton and Barack Obama.
Overseas leaders are no stranger to overexposure -- French President Nicolas Sarkozy and Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin have both been photographed topless.
Shirtless photos can give a politician a boost, as they did when Americans were surprised to see then president-elect Obama's fit physique during a beach vacation.
Or they can lead to a politician's downfall, as was the case for former Rep. Chris Lee (R-N.Y.), who resigned after sending shirtless photos of himself to a woman via a Craigslist ad."
Weiner admits he sent lewd picture; won't quit - Yahoo! News
Weiner admits he sent lewd picture; won't quit - Yahoo! News: "NEW YORK – After days of denials, a choked-up New York Democratic Rep. Anthony Weiner confessed Monday that he tweeted a photo of his bulging underpants to a woman and admitted to 'inappropriate' exchanges with six women before and after getting married. He apologized for lying but said he would not resign.
Weiner said at a news conference that he had never personally met any of the women he corresponded with online and sometimes via telephone, and was not even sure of their ages. He also said he had never had sex outside of his marriage.
'This was me doing a dumb thing, and doing it repeatedly, and lying about it,' he said.
He said he did not feel the scandal affected his work as a lawmaker but would understand if his constituents decided not to re-elect him."
Weiner said at a news conference that he had never personally met any of the women he corresponded with online and sometimes via telephone, and was not even sure of their ages. He also said he had never had sex outside of his marriage.
'This was me doing a dumb thing, and doing it repeatedly, and lying about it,' he said.
He said he did not feel the scandal affected his work as a lawmaker but would understand if his constituents decided not to re-elect him."
Anthony Weiner Twitter Scandal: New Photos Emerge (VIDEO)
Anthony Weiner Twitter Scandal: New Photos Emerge (VIDEO): "The controversy surrounding the lewd photograph sent from Rep. Anthony Weiner's (D-N.Y.) Twitter account took a new turn Monday. Andrew Breitbart's website BigGovernment.com claims that a new woman has come forward with photos, chats, and emails sent to her by the congressman that suggest they two were involved in 'an online, consensual relationship involving the mutual exchange of intimate photographs.'
The first picture posted on BigGovernment.com shows Weiner holding a piece of paper with the word 'me' written on it, and an arrow pointing to his face. According to the website, Weiner sent the photo in order to prove to the woman that he it was in fact the person corresponding with her online."
The first picture posted on BigGovernment.com shows Weiner holding a piece of paper with the word 'me' written on it, and an arrow pointing to his face. According to the website, Weiner sent the photo in order to prove to the woman that he it was in fact the person corresponding with her online."
Sunday, June 5, 2011
Palin: I didn't `mess up' Paul Revere history - Yahoo! News
Palin: I didn't `mess up' Paul Revere history - Yahoo! News: "WASHINGTON – Sarah Palin insisted Sunday that history was on her side when she claimed that Paul Revere's famous ride was intended to warn both British soldiers and his fellow colonists.
'You realize that you messed up about Paul Revere, don't you?' 'Fox News Sunday' anchor Chris Wallace asked the potential 2012 presidential candidate.
'I didn't mess up about Paul Revere,' replied Palin, a paid contributor to the network.
'Part of his ride was to warn the British that were already there. That, hey, you're not going to succeed. You're not going to take American arms. You are not going to beat our own well-armed persons, individual, private militia that we have,' she added. 'He did warn the British.'
Palin, who again said she has not decided whether to run for president, was asked about the Revolutionary War hero during a stop Thursday in Boston on her East Coast bus tour."
'You realize that you messed up about Paul Revere, don't you?' 'Fox News Sunday' anchor Chris Wallace asked the potential 2012 presidential candidate.
'I didn't mess up about Paul Revere,' replied Palin, a paid contributor to the network.
'Part of his ride was to warn the British that were already there. That, hey, you're not going to succeed. You're not going to take American arms. You are not going to beat our own well-armed persons, individual, private militia that we have,' she added. 'He did warn the British.'
Palin, who again said she has not decided whether to run for president, was asked about the Revolutionary War hero during a stop Thursday in Boston on her East Coast bus tour."
Saturday, June 4, 2011
Bradley Manning Supporters Rally At Kansas Prison
Bradley Manning Supporters Rally At Kansas Prison: "WASHINGTON -- Hundreds of supporters of Bradley Manning converged at Leavenworth, Kan., Saturday to rally for the Army private accused of leaking classified documents to the anti-secrecy group WikiLeaks.
Gathered outside the prison where Manning is currently being held, protesters denounced Manning's treatment and called on the White House to drop all charges against him.
'PFC Bradley Manning is a fellow soldier,' Brian Wolfe, a Kansas-based Army Veteran who served in Operation Iraqi Freedom, said in an email statement. 'If a fellow soldier is punished for taking his oath to defend the constitution seriously, what does that mean for our military and for our democracy?'
The event marked the first public rally in support of Manning since he was transferred to Fort Leavenworth in April after being imprisoned for nine months on the Quantico Marine Corps Base in Virginia.
While detained at Quantico, Manning was forced to sleep naked in a military jail after a commander of the brig ordered his clothes be taken away for a full seven hours. He was also forced to stand naked outside his cell in front of the rest of the clothed inmates until he passed inspection and was given his clothes back."
Gathered outside the prison where Manning is currently being held, protesters denounced Manning's treatment and called on the White House to drop all charges against him.
'PFC Bradley Manning is a fellow soldier,' Brian Wolfe, a Kansas-based Army Veteran who served in Operation Iraqi Freedom, said in an email statement. 'If a fellow soldier is punished for taking his oath to defend the constitution seriously, what does that mean for our military and for our democracy?'
The event marked the first public rally in support of Manning since he was transferred to Fort Leavenworth in April after being imprisoned for nine months on the Quantico Marine Corps Base in Virginia.
While detained at Quantico, Manning was forced to sleep naked in a military jail after a commander of the brig ordered his clothes be taken away for a full seven hours. He was also forced to stand naked outside his cell in front of the rest of the clothed inmates until he passed inspection and was given his clothes back."
John Edwards, disgraced but determined, readies for new trial | Reuters
John Edwards, disgraced but determined, readies for new trial | Reuters: "(Reuters) - John Edwards doesn't dispute he was a cad, but he's defiant that he's not a criminal.
And it appears this may be one point in which the disgraced former North Carolina senator and 2004 Democratic vice presidential nominee may get some sympathy in his home state and beyond.
John Hood, president of the John Locke Foundation, a conservative North Carolina think tank, said Edwards may be right.
'To act like a heel is not to be a criminal,' Hood said. 'We have to distinguish between Edwards' disgusting behavior and allegations of criminality.'
Edwards was indicted Friday on six federal charges related to cash gifts. The money was used to cover up an extramarital affair he had while seeking the 2008 Democratic presidential nomination. A trial has been set for July 11, though it is expected to be pushed back, perhaps by several months."
And it appears this may be one point in which the disgraced former North Carolina senator and 2004 Democratic vice presidential nominee may get some sympathy in his home state and beyond.
John Hood, president of the John Locke Foundation, a conservative North Carolina think tank, said Edwards may be right.
'To act like a heel is not to be a criminal,' Hood said. 'We have to distinguish between Edwards' disgusting behavior and allegations of criminality.'
Edwards was indicted Friday on six federal charges related to cash gifts. The money was used to cover up an extramarital affair he had while seeking the 2008 Democratic presidential nomination. A trial has been set for July 11, though it is expected to be pushed back, perhaps by several months."
Anthony Weiner cancels Wisconsin speech to Democrats | Reuters
Anthony Weiner cancels Wisconsin speech to Democrats | Reuters: "(Reuters) - Representative Anthony Weiner (D-NY), who has denied sending a lewd photo of himself to a 21-year-old female college student over his Twitter account, canceled a scheduled speech on Friday at the Democratic Party of Wisconsin's state convention.
Wisconsin Democrats had touted the outspoken liberal congressman as a special guest speaker for the convention and 'a champion of health care reform' in the U.S. Congress.
However, state Democratic Party spokesman Graeme Zielinski confirmed on Friday that Weiner's speech was canceled at the congressman's request.
A representative of Weiner was not immediately available to comment.
Weiner has said his Twitter account was hacked when a photo of a man in bulging boxer briefs was tweeted to a 21-year-old female college student in Washington state. The student has backed Weiner's account, saying she was 'a fan' of the congressman but did not know him."
Wisconsin Democrats had touted the outspoken liberal congressman as a special guest speaker for the convention and 'a champion of health care reform' in the U.S. Congress.
However, state Democratic Party spokesman Graeme Zielinski confirmed on Friday that Weiner's speech was canceled at the congressman's request.
A representative of Weiner was not immediately available to comment.
Weiner has said his Twitter account was hacked when a photo of a man in bulging boxer briefs was tweeted to a 21-year-old female college student in Washington state. The student has backed Weiner's account, saying she was 'a fan' of the congressman but did not know him."
White House delays updated budget data release | Reuters
White House delays updated budget data release | Reuters: "(Reuters) - The White House will delay release of updated economic and budget projections until after a July 16 deadline because of ongoing deficit talks and other factors, an administration official said on Friday.
The White House's so-called mid-session review includes revised estimates of the budget deficit as well as U.S. revenues and spending.
Unique changes to the budget calendar prompted the delay, the official said, citing the fact that Congress used short-term spending bills for months until it finally agreed on a budget for fiscal 2011 halfway through the year.
'This has not been a normal year in terms of budgeting and appropriations,' the official said."
The White House's so-called mid-session review includes revised estimates of the budget deficit as well as U.S. revenues and spending.
Unique changes to the budget calendar prompted the delay, the official said, citing the fact that Congress used short-term spending bills for months until it finally agreed on a budget for fiscal 2011 halfway through the year.
'This has not been a normal year in terms of budgeting and appropriations,' the official said."
U.S. tries to reduce more homeowners' mortgages | Reuters
U.S. tries to reduce more homeowners' mortgages | Reuters: "(Reuters) - The Obama administration wants to help more struggling Americans stay in their homes by reducing the amount they owe on their troubled mortgages, a top Treasury official said on Saturday.
'We are very definitely trying to facilitate more principal reductions,' said Timothy Massad, Treasury's acting assistant secretary for financial stability. 'It is a very important piece of the overall solution,' he said.
The administration is trying through taxpayer-funded programs to prevent homeowners from losing their homes. Nearly $50 billion has been set aside from the $700 billion bank bailout known as the Troubled Asset Relief Program, or TARP, to help distressed homeowners.
Persistently high unemployment and a weak housing market pose a threat to President Barack Obama's re-election prospects next year."
'We are very definitely trying to facilitate more principal reductions,' said Timothy Massad, Treasury's acting assistant secretary for financial stability. 'It is a very important piece of the overall solution,' he said.
The administration is trying through taxpayer-funded programs to prevent homeowners from losing their homes. Nearly $50 billion has been set aside from the $700 billion bank bailout known as the Troubled Asset Relief Program, or TARP, to help distressed homeowners.
Persistently high unemployment and a weak housing market pose a threat to President Barack Obama's re-election prospects next year."
Barack Obama Needs More Jobs To Keep His Job
Barack Obama Needs More Jobs To Keep His Job: "WASHINGTON — President Barack Obama cannot escape one giant vulnerability as he bids to keep his job: Millions of voters still don't have one.
Suddenly, the snapshot of the American economy is depressing again.
Job creation is down. So is consumer confidence. And homes sales, auto sales, construction spending, manufacturing expansion.
The brutal month of May was a reminder of the economy's fragility and the risks for an incumbent president.
Nothing that Obama oversees, not even a success as dramatic as finding and killing Osama bin Laden, will matter as much as his handling of the economy. It is the dominant driver of voter behavior. People hold their president accountable if they can't find work in the richest country in the world.
The weakening recovery is testing the entire foundation of Obama's optimistic economic message, that the nation is getting stronger all the time. As much as the White House says it never dwells on any single jobs report, and Obama never even mentioned the troubling one released Friday, the stakes get higher by the month."
Suddenly, the snapshot of the American economy is depressing again.
Job creation is down. So is consumer confidence. And homes sales, auto sales, construction spending, manufacturing expansion.
The brutal month of May was a reminder of the economy's fragility and the risks for an incumbent president.
Nothing that Obama oversees, not even a success as dramatic as finding and killing Osama bin Laden, will matter as much as his handling of the economy. It is the dominant driver of voter behavior. People hold their president accountable if they can't find work in the richest country in the world.
The weakening recovery is testing the entire foundation of Obama's optimistic economic message, that the nation is getting stronger all the time. As much as the White House says it never dwells on any single jobs report, and Obama never even mentioned the troubling one released Friday, the stakes get higher by the month."
Paul Ryan’s Ayn Rand Problem | Swampland
Paul Ryan’s Ayn Rand Problem | Swampland: "I am fairly certain that when Paul Ryan first decided to publicly share his admiration of Ayn Rand, he could not have imagined it would lead to him speed-walking to his SUV to avoid a young Catholic trying to give him a Bible and telling him to pay more attention to the Gospel of Luke. But that’s what happened Friday morning in downtown Washington after Ryan spoke to the surprisingly smallish crowd gathered for Ralph Reed’s Faith & Freedom Conference."
Barack Obama Needs More Jobs To Keep His Job
Barack Obama Needs More Jobs To Keep His Job: "WASHINGTON — President Barack Obama cannot escape one giant vulnerability as he bids to keep his job: Millions of voters still don't have one.
Suddenly, the snapshot of the American economy is depressing again.
Job creation is down. So is consumer confidence. And homes sales, auto sales, construction spending, manufacturing expansion.
The brutal month of May was a reminder of the economy's fragility and the risks for an incumbent president.
Nothing that Obama oversees, not even a success as dramatic as finding and killing Osama bin Laden, will matter as much as his handling of the economy. It is the dominant driver of voter behavior. People hold their president accountable if they can't find work in the richest country in the world.
The weakening recovery is testing the entire foundation of Obama's optimistic economic message, that the nation is getting stronger all the time. As much as the White House says it never dwells on any single jobs report, and Obama never even mentioned the troubling one released Friday, the stakes get higher by the month."
Suddenly, the snapshot of the American economy is depressing again.
Job creation is down. So is consumer confidence. And homes sales, auto sales, construction spending, manufacturing expansion.
The brutal month of May was a reminder of the economy's fragility and the risks for an incumbent president.
Nothing that Obama oversees, not even a success as dramatic as finding and killing Osama bin Laden, will matter as much as his handling of the economy. It is the dominant driver of voter behavior. People hold their president accountable if they can't find work in the richest country in the world.
The weakening recovery is testing the entire foundation of Obama's optimistic economic message, that the nation is getting stronger all the time. As much as the White House says it never dwells on any single jobs report, and Obama never even mentioned the troubling one released Friday, the stakes get higher by the month."
Friday, June 3, 2011
Debt Ceiling Fight Could Strain Economy Even Before August, With Moody's Downgrade Possible
Debt Ceiling Fight Could Strain Economy Even Before August, With Moody's Downgrade Possible: "NEW YORK -- As politicians fight over the federal debt ceiling, Americans could start feeling the consequences of Congressional gridlock even before that limit is hit.
Moody's Investors Service warned on Thursday that if lawmakers have not made progress in negotiations to raise the debt limit by mid-July, the ratings agency plans to reassess the nation's sterling credit rating for a possible downgrade. The warning, coming after Standard & Poor's lowered its outlook on U.S. debt to 'negative' in April, underscores that the current political stalemate in Washington has already begun to dampen the nation's economic prospects.
A downgrade from Moody's on U.S. debt, or even the imminent threat of one, could itself begin to choke the economic processes that still have not fully recovered from the Great Recession. It would imply that a credit default is possible, likely causing yields on Treasury debt to rise and pushing up interest rates across the board."
Moody's Investors Service warned on Thursday that if lawmakers have not made progress in negotiations to raise the debt limit by mid-July, the ratings agency plans to reassess the nation's sterling credit rating for a possible downgrade. The warning, coming after Standard & Poor's lowered its outlook on U.S. debt to 'negative' in April, underscores that the current political stalemate in Washington has already begun to dampen the nation's economic prospects.
A downgrade from Moody's on U.S. debt, or even the imminent threat of one, could itself begin to choke the economic processes that still have not fully recovered from the Great Recession. It would imply that a credit default is possible, likely causing yields on Treasury debt to rise and pushing up interest rates across the board."
The Fast Fix: GOP contender Herman Cain on the rise | The Fast Fix - Yahoo! News
The Fast Fix: GOP contender Herman Cain on the rise | The Fast Fix - Yahoo! News: "Herman Cain is the hottest thing in Republican presidential politics these days.
Cain, a businessman who served as the CEO of Godfather's pizza chain, has been winning over converts with his fiery rhetorical flourishes and non-political background.
He was widely judged to have emerged as the winner from last month's presidential debate, which included, among others, former Minnesota governor Tim Pawlenty. And a new Gallup poll showed Cain receiving a surprisingly strong eight percent support, putting him ahead of nationally-known candidates like Rick Santorum and Michele Bachmann.
And, he was the most searched-for GOP candidate on Yahoo! in the last month by far, overtaking Ron Paul from the previous month.
While Cain is opening lots of Republican eyes, he's not exactly new to politics.
In 1994, he became a conservative hero when he confronted then President Bill Clinton at a nationally televised health care town hall in Omaha, Nebraska. Ten years later, Cain ran in a Senate primary in Georgia against a Republican Congressman who enjoyed the backing of the political establishment. He won just 26 percent of the vote."
Cain, a businessman who served as the CEO of Godfather's pizza chain, has been winning over converts with his fiery rhetorical flourishes and non-political background.
He was widely judged to have emerged as the winner from last month's presidential debate, which included, among others, former Minnesota governor Tim Pawlenty. And a new Gallup poll showed Cain receiving a surprisingly strong eight percent support, putting him ahead of nationally-known candidates like Rick Santorum and Michele Bachmann.
And, he was the most searched-for GOP candidate on Yahoo! in the last month by far, overtaking Ron Paul from the previous month.
While Cain is opening lots of Republican eyes, he's not exactly new to politics.
In 1994, he became a conservative hero when he confronted then President Bill Clinton at a nationally televised health care town hall in Omaha, Nebraska. Ten years later, Cain ran in a Senate primary in Georgia against a Republican Congressman who enjoyed the backing of the political establishment. He won just 26 percent of the vote."
First Read - Palin fires shot at Romney at Bunker Hill
First Read - Palin fires shot at Romney at Bunker Hill: "In remarks made at Bunker Hill in Massachusetts -- of all places -- Sarah Palin fired a shot at Mitt Romney over the health-care mandate that Romney signed into law in the state in 2006.
The remarks came just before Romney formally announces his presidential bid in nearby New Hampshire, which Palin also plans to visit later today.
'In my opinion, any mandate coming from government is not a good thing, so obviously ... there will be more the explanation coming from former governor, Romney, on his support for government mandates,' Palin told reporters today.
When a reporter followed up that Romney has distinguished his state mandate from the federal one President Obama signed into law in 2010, Palin responded that even state mandates are problematic.
'He makes a good argument there that it does. States rights and authority and responsibility allowed in our states makes more sense than a big centralized government telling us what to do,' she said."
The remarks came just before Romney formally announces his presidential bid in nearby New Hampshire, which Palin also plans to visit later today.
'In my opinion, any mandate coming from government is not a good thing, so obviously ... there will be more the explanation coming from former governor, Romney, on his support for government mandates,' Palin told reporters today.
When a reporter followed up that Romney has distinguished his state mandate from the federal one President Obama signed into law in 2010, Palin responded that even state mandates are problematic.
'He makes a good argument there that it does. States rights and authority and responsibility allowed in our states makes more sense than a big centralized government telling us what to do,' she said."
White House: House Libya resolutions 'unhelpful' - Yahoo! News
White House: House Libya resolutions 'unhelpful' - Yahoo! News: "WASHINGTON (AFP) – The White House said Friday that two resolutions set for a vote in Congress critical of President Barack Obama's conduct of the US operation in Libya were 'unhelpful and unnecessary.'
The pending House of Representatives votes reveal growing discontent over Obama's stewardship of the Libya conflict and complaints that he did not seek authorization for military action as required by the constitution.
'We have continued to consult with Congress all along. In just the last week there have been three separate congressional briefings,' deputy White House press secretary Josh Earnest told reporters aboard Air Force One."
The pending House of Representatives votes reveal growing discontent over Obama's stewardship of the Libya conflict and complaints that he did not seek authorization for military action as required by the constitution.
'We have continued to consult with Congress all along. In just the last week there have been three separate congressional briefings,' deputy White House press secretary Josh Earnest told reporters aboard Air Force One."
Blagojevich Grilled By Prosecutor About Lying To FBI Conviction
Blagojevich Grilled By Prosecutor About Lying To FBI Conviction: "CHICAGO -- A prosecutor who waited years to grill Rod Blagojevich on a witness stand struck hard and fast Thursday when he finally got his chance.
'Mr. Blagojevich, you are a convicted liar, correct?' lead prosecutor Reid Schar asked, raising his voice as he stepped up and delivered his first question to the ousted Illinois governor.
'Yes,' Blagojevich answered, after the judge overruled a flurry of objections from defense lawyers.
Within minutes, tempers on all sides flared – a seemingly chaotic scene where Blagojevich's lawyers repeatedly objected and Schar appealed for the judge to direct Blagojevich to answer the question.
Schar rocked back on his heels and pointed angrily as he hurled one question after another at Blagojevich, who tried to hold his ground and also looked angry."
'Mr. Blagojevich, you are a convicted liar, correct?' lead prosecutor Reid Schar asked, raising his voice as he stepped up and delivered his first question to the ousted Illinois governor.
'Yes,' Blagojevich answered, after the judge overruled a flurry of objections from defense lawyers.
Within minutes, tempers on all sides flared – a seemingly chaotic scene where Blagojevich's lawyers repeatedly objected and Schar appealed for the judge to direct Blagojevich to answer the question.
Schar rocked back on his heels and pointed angrily as he hurled one question after another at Blagojevich, who tried to hold his ground and also looked angry."
John Edwards Indicted: Charged With Conspiracy, Campaign Finance Violations By Federal Grand Jury (VIDEO)
John Edwards Indicted: Charged With Conspiracy, Campaign Finance Violations By Federal Grand Jury (VIDEO): "RALEIGH, North Carolina (AP) -- A federal grand jury indicted two-time presidential candidate John Edwards on Friday over $925,000 spent to keep his mistress and their baby in hiding during the peak of his 2008 campaign for the White House.
The case of USA v. Johnny Reid Edwards contains six counts, including conspiracy, four counts of illegal campaign contributions and one count of false statements.
The indictment said the payments were a scheme to protect Edwards' White House ambitions. 'A centerpiece of Edwards' candidacy was his public image as a devoted family man,' the indictment said.
'Edwards knew that public revelation of the affair and the pregnancy would destroy his candidacy by, among other things, undermining Edwards' presentation of himself as a family man and by forcing his campaign to divert personnel and resources away from other campaign activities to respond to criticism and media scrutiny regarding the affair and pregnancy,' the indictment added.
The indictment and an arrest warrant were filed in Greensboro, N.C., which is in the district where his campaign was headquartered."
The case of USA v. Johnny Reid Edwards contains six counts, including conspiracy, four counts of illegal campaign contributions and one count of false statements.
The indictment said the payments were a scheme to protect Edwards' White House ambitions. 'A centerpiece of Edwards' candidacy was his public image as a devoted family man,' the indictment said.
'Edwards knew that public revelation of the affair and the pregnancy would destroy his candidacy by, among other things, undermining Edwards' presentation of himself as a family man and by forcing his campaign to divert personnel and resources away from other campaign activities to respond to criticism and media scrutiny regarding the affair and pregnancy,' the indictment added.
The indictment and an arrest warrant were filed in Greensboro, N.C., which is in the district where his campaign was headquartered."
Debt fight continues despite Wall St. warning - Yahoo! News
Debt fight continues despite Wall St. warning - Yahoo! News: "WASHINGTON – Facing a dire warning from a credit rating agency, the Obama administration lobbied some of Congress' most conservative members Thursday for an increase in the nation's debt limit. Republicans responded that the surest way to reassure financial markets was to enact deep deficit cuts.
At the White House, President Barack Obama told Democrats he expected talks led by Vice President Joe Biden to achieve only about 60 to 70 percent of the reductions required as part of the deal, officials said, leaving him and top lawmakers to agree on the rest. The Biden talks are aimed at producing a bipartisan debt-cutting package that could accompany a boost in the government's ability to borrow more money."
At the White House, President Barack Obama told Democrats he expected talks led by Vice President Joe Biden to achieve only about 60 to 70 percent of the reductions required as part of the deal, officials said, leaving him and top lawmakers to agree on the rest. The Biden talks are aimed at producing a bipartisan debt-cutting package that could accompany a boost in the government's ability to borrow more money."
Thursday, June 2, 2011
Sarah Palin bus tour: Don't count the former governor out for 2012 - baltimoresun.com
Sarah Palin bus tour: Don't count the former governor out for 2012 - baltimoresun.com: "While in Baltimore, according to a Los Angeles Times reporter who was able to keep up despite the lack of a public schedule, Ms. Palin read a manuscript of the 'Star Spangled Banner;' hoisted a 36-pound cannon ball; briefly upbraided President Barack Obama for referring to the U.S. military during a Memorial Day observance as 'one of the finest fighting forces in the world,' as opposed to the finest; and in a particularly mavericky touch, paid a compliment to another noncandidate, Gov. Rick Perry of Texas.
All this action from the Fox News commentator, plus her recent purchase of a home in Arizona, which could be a perch in the Lower 48 from which to launch a presidential run, has delighted all ends of the political spectrum. In fact, it's hard to tell who's more excited, Ms. Palin's many fans or the Democrats who think she'd be easy to beat."
All this action from the Fox News commentator, plus her recent purchase of a home in Arizona, which could be a perch in the Lower 48 from which to launch a presidential run, has delighted all ends of the political spectrum. In fact, it's hard to tell who's more excited, Ms. Palin's many fans or the Democrats who think she'd be easy to beat."
Sarah Palin's Poll Numbers Down, But Path To GOP Nomination Not Out
Sarah Palin's Poll Numbers Down, But Path To GOP Nomination Not Out: "ASHINGTON -- As Sarah Palin's unusual 'One Nation' bus tour winds its way through the Northeast, Republican insiders seem convinced that the former Alaska Governor will not run for president. But if Palin defies the conventional wisdom and decides to seek the presidency, does she have a path to the Republican nomination? Although her negative ratings are high with Democrats and Independents, Palin remains popular with Republicans, and a surprising number remain open to her candidacy.
Among all adults, Palin's favorable ratings have grown steadily more negative since 2008, as shown in the chart below. These eroding numbers are why Palin fares consistently worse against Barack Obama than equally well known potential candidates, such as Mitt Romney or Mike Huckabee, in a series of national surveys conducted in recent months. (Huckabee announced in May that he will not run.)"
Among all adults, Palin's favorable ratings have grown steadily more negative since 2008, as shown in the chart below. These eroding numbers are why Palin fares consistently worse against Barack Obama than equally well known potential candidates, such as Mitt Romney or Mike Huckabee, in a series of national surveys conducted in recent months. (Huckabee announced in May that he will not run.)"
Wednesday, June 1, 2011
Weiner 'Can't Say with Certitude' Lewd Photo Isn't Him
Multisource political news, world news, and entertainment news analysis by Newsy.com
The GOP is No Friend to Military Members Struggling During Recession | The Nation
The GOP is No Friend to Military Members Struggling During Recession | The Nation: "Boehner’s respect for the military sacrifice is admirable. Unfortunately, his apparent feelings are not borne out by his voting record. In recent years, Boehner’s Republican caucus in the House of Representatives has taken several votes this year that are substantive insults to veterans and active duty members of the military. The GOP has long enjoyed voters’ trust as the political party most likely to defend the armed services—but the facts tell a different story.
Most of the recent measures taken in Washington to help veterans aim to protect them from the economic crisis. Unemployment and foreclosure no doubt touch many Americans. But many veterans spent much of the past decade fighting in Iraq or Afghanistan, only to re-enter civilian life as the economy bottomed out. They faced an even steeper uphill battle than most, often struggling with injury, mental stress, or at the very least, many years out of the country and away from the job market".
Most of the recent measures taken in Washington to help veterans aim to protect them from the economic crisis. Unemployment and foreclosure no doubt touch many Americans. But many veterans spent much of the past decade fighting in Iraq or Afghanistan, only to re-enter civilian life as the economy bottomed out. They faced an even steeper uphill battle than most, often struggling with injury, mental stress, or at the very least, many years out of the country and away from the job market".
First Read - Weiner 'can't say with certitude' that lewd photo isn't of him
First Read - Weiner 'can't say with certitude' that lewd photo isn't of him: "Rep. Anthony Weiner (D-NY) said Wednesday that he can’t say “with certitude” whether or not a lewd below-the-belt photo depicted his body, but he insisted that he did not tweet the picture to a 21-year old college student in Seattle, Wash.
In an interview with NBC’s Luke Russert, Weiner repeated his claim that his Twitter account was hacked and said that he has hired a private security firm to investigate the matter. "
In an interview with NBC’s Luke Russert, Weiner repeated his claim that his Twitter account was hacked and said that he has hired a private security firm to investigate the matter. "
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