CIA warns Barack Obama that British terrorists are the biggest threat to the US - Telegraph: "American spy chiefs have told the President that the CIA has launched a vast spying operation in the UK to prevent a repeat of the 9/11 attacks being launched from Britain.
They believe that a British-born Pakistani extremist entering the US under the visa waiver programme is the most likely source of another terrorist spectacular on American soil."
he can't say he was not warned, but I bet that he will just say "I screwed up" when it happens :-(
Saturday, February 7, 2009
IBDeditorials.com: Editorials, Political Cartoons, and Polls from Investor's Business Daily -- A Checklist Of Obama's Many Promises
IBDeditorials.com: Editorials, Political Cartoons, and Polls from Investor's Business Daily -- A Checklist Of Obama's Many Promises: "Few presidential candidates have made more specific promises to American voters than Barack Obama. They came so fast and furious in the latter part of the campaign, you'd be excused for not keeping up. So as a public service, we've put together a handy checklist of some of the biggest Obama promises — culled from his 'Blueprint for Change,' his campaign speeches and advertisements. Clip it. Save it. And see how he did in four years."
Bill forces citizens to submit DNA
Bill forces citizens to submit DNA: "Citizens who have been arrested may be required to submit DNA samples to authorities before being convicted of any crime – and those records would be kept in state and federal databases.
The Washington state Legislature has introduced a measure that would require police to obtain the samples from even suspects accused of minor crimes such as shoplifting, according to the Seattle Times."
The Washington state Legislature has introduced a measure that would require police to obtain the samples from even suspects accused of minor crimes such as shoplifting, according to the Seattle Times."
Children's bunny 'martyred' on Arab TV
Children's bunny 'martyred' on Arab TV
Indoctrinate them young. The latest of the brainwashing, they killed the hero bunny for Allah.
Indoctrinate them young. The latest of the brainwashing, they killed the hero bunny for Allah.
Charges dropped against USS Cole bombing suspect | csmonitor.com
Charges dropped against USS Cole bombing suspect | csmonitor.com: "Reuters reports that the dismissal brings the Pentagon fully into compliance with President Barack Obama's request for a 120-day stay of all military tribunals of terrorism suspects.
The move avoided a showdown between the U.S. military and President Barack Obama. It cancelled a hearing that had been set for Monday in the Guantánamo war crimes court, despite the fact Obama had ordered a freeze in proceedings there.
Susan Crawford, the retired judge who oversees the commissions, issued a ruling dismissing without prejudice all charges against Saudi national Abd al-Rahim al-Nashiri, said Pentagon spokesman Navy Commander J.D. Gordon.
Nashiri is accused of plotting the attack on the Cole that killed 17 U.S. sailors in the Yemeni port of Aden in 2000."
This is TREASON!
It is giving AID AND COMFORT TO THE ENEMY IN TIME OF WAR!
The move avoided a showdown between the U.S. military and President Barack Obama. It cancelled a hearing that had been set for Monday in the Guantánamo war crimes court, despite the fact Obama had ordered a freeze in proceedings there.
Susan Crawford, the retired judge who oversees the commissions, issued a ruling dismissing without prejudice all charges against Saudi national Abd al-Rahim al-Nashiri, said Pentagon spokesman Navy Commander J.D. Gordon.
Nashiri is accused of plotting the attack on the Cole that killed 17 U.S. sailors in the Yemeni port of Aden in 2000."
This is TREASON!
It is giving AID AND COMFORT TO THE ENEMY IN TIME OF WAR!
Dems angered by Cheney warnings
Dems angered by Cheney warnings: "Many experts, even those who disagree sharply on most issues with Cheney, concur that a large-scale unconventional attack remains the most dangerous national security threat, if not necessarily the most likely. Obama himself has warned of such a catastrophic attack."
Sonoran News
Sonoran News: "Noting Obama has not only refused to prove he is eligible to become President of the United States, McGrew said, “He has spent hundreds of thousands of dollars to prohibit anyone from discovering his true identity or his history.”
And, because McGrew believes Obama is not eligible to be President of the United States, he says any agreements Obama makes are subject to change or removal by current or future administrations, far into the future.
He adds, due to Obama’s illegitimacy of office, any and all agreements he makes gives foreign powers reason to deny, rescind or renege on them.
McGrew points out any orders Obama gives to the American military are subject to refusal, as are orders given to America’s Joint Chiefs of Staff of the military, while security and abilities of NATO are being compromised along with agreements and treaties around the world."
And, because McGrew believes Obama is not eligible to be President of the United States, he says any agreements Obama makes are subject to change or removal by current or future administrations, far into the future.
He adds, due to Obama’s illegitimacy of office, any and all agreements he makes gives foreign powers reason to deny, rescind or renege on them.
McGrew points out any orders Obama gives to the American military are subject to refusal, as are orders given to America’s Joint Chiefs of Staff of the military, while security and abilities of NATO are being compromised along with agreements and treaties around the world."
Charles Krauthammer - The Fierce Urgency of Pork
Charles Krauthammer - The Fierce Urgency of Pork: "Catastrophe, mind you. So much for the president who in his inaugural address two weeks earlier declared 'we have chosen hope over fear.' Until, that is, you need fear to pass a bill."
Spies Want to Scan Your Iris From Afar | Danger Room from Wired.com
Spies Want to Scan Your Iris From Afar | Danger Room from Wired.com: "The new uber-geek arm of American spy agencies, the Intelligence Advanced Research Projects Activity, is looking to change that. Researchers there want to do iris and face-scans from far away, and 'under uncontrolled acquisition conditions.' So they're launching a new project, 'Biometrics Exploitation Science and Technology' (BEST) to find new ways to get this face and eye data, even when the subject is moving and the lighting is all wrong. 'The minimum objective is to exceed by a factor of three what is commercially available today, with recognition performance similar to that achieved with the cooperative or conditioned individual under controlled acquisition,' a recent announcement to industry notes."
Think Back
Jan 21, 2009
Yesterday:
1. Outgoing President George W. Bush quietly boards his helicopter and leaves for Texas, commenting only: "Today is not about me. Today is a historical day for our nation and people."
Eight years ago yesterday:
1. Outgoing President Bill Clinton schedules two separate radio addresses to the nation, and organizes a public farewell speech/ rally in downtown Washington D.C. scheduled to directly conflict with incoming President Bush's inauguration ceremony.
Yesterday:
2. President Bush leaves office without issuing a single Presidential pardon, only granting a commutation of sentence to two former border patrol agents convicted of shooting a convicted drug smuggler. He does not grant any type of clemency to Scooter Libby or any other former political aide, ally, or business partner.
Eight years ago yesterday:
2. President Clinton issues 140 pardons and several commutations of sentence on his final day in office. Included in these are: billionaire financier, convicted tax evader, and leading Democratic campaign contributor Marc Rich; Whitwater scandal figure Susan McDougal; Congressional Post Office Scandal figure and former Democratic Congressman Dan Rostenkowski; convicted bank fraud, sexual assault and child porn perpetrator and former Democratic Congressman Melvin Reynolds; and convicted drug felon Roger Clinton, the President's half-brother.
Yesterday:
3. The Bush daughters leave gift baskets in the White House bedrooms for the Obama daughters, containing flowers, candy, stuffed animals, DVD's and CD's, and heartfelt notes of encouragement and advice for the young girls on how to prepare for their new lives in the White House.
Eight years ago Yesterday:
3. Clinton and Gore staffers rip computer wires and electrical outlets from the White House walls, stuff piles of notebook papers into the White House toilets, systematically remove the letter "W" from every computer key-pad in the entire White House, and damage several thousand dollars worth of furniture in the White House master bedroom.
Eight years
Headlines On This Date 4 Years Ago:
"Republicans spending $42 million on inauguration while troops Die in unarmored Humvees"
"Bush extravagance exceeds any reason during tough economic times"
"Fat cats get their $42 million inauguration party, Ordinary Americans get the shaft"
Headlines Today:
"Historic Obama Inauguration will cost only $170 million"
"Obama Spends $170 million on inauguration; America Needs A Big Party"
"Everyman Obama shows America how to celebrate"
"Citibank executives contribute $8 million to Obama Inauguration"
Yesterday:
1. Outgoing President George W. Bush quietly boards his helicopter and leaves for Texas, commenting only: "Today is not about me. Today is a historical day for our nation and people."
Eight years ago yesterday:
1. Outgoing President Bill Clinton schedules two separate radio addresses to the nation, and organizes a public farewell speech/ rally in downtown Washington D.C. scheduled to directly conflict with incoming President Bush's inauguration ceremony.
Yesterday:
2. President Bush leaves office without issuing a single Presidential pardon, only granting a commutation of sentence to two former border patrol agents convicted of shooting a convicted drug smuggler. He does not grant any type of clemency to Scooter Libby or any other former political aide, ally, or business partner.
Eight years ago yesterday:
2. President Clinton issues 140 pardons and several commutations of sentence on his final day in office. Included in these are: billionaire financier, convicted tax evader, and leading Democratic campaign contributor Marc Rich; Whitwater scandal figure Susan McDougal; Congressional Post Office Scandal figure and former Democratic Congressman Dan Rostenkowski; convicted bank fraud, sexual assault and child porn perpetrator and former Democratic Congressman Melvin Reynolds; and convicted drug felon Roger Clinton, the President's half-brother.
Yesterday:
3. The Bush daughters leave gift baskets in the White House bedrooms for the Obama daughters, containing flowers, candy, stuffed animals, DVD's and CD's, and heartfelt notes of encouragement and advice for the young girls on how to prepare for their new lives in the White House.
Eight years ago Yesterday:
3. Clinton and Gore staffers rip computer wires and electrical outlets from the White House walls, stuff piles of notebook papers into the White House toilets, systematically remove the letter "W" from every computer key-pad in the entire White House, and damage several thousand dollars worth of furniture in the White House master bedroom.
Eight years
Headlines On This Date 4 Years Ago:
"Republicans spending $42 million on inauguration while troops Die in unarmored Humvees"
"Bush extravagance exceeds any reason during tough economic times"
"Fat cats get their $42 million inauguration party, Ordinary Americans get the shaft"
Headlines Today:
"Historic Obama Inauguration will cost only $170 million"
"Obama Spends $170 million on inauguration; America Needs A Big Party"
"Everyman Obama shows America how to celebrate"
"Citibank executives contribute $8 million to Obama Inauguration"
50 De-Stimulating Facts by Stephen Spruiell & Kevin Williamson on National Review Online
50 De-Stimulating Facts by Stephen Spruiell & Kevin Williamson on National Review Online: "Of course, it wouldn’t be a liberal wish list if it didn’t include something for ACORN, and sure enough, there is $5.2 billion for community-development block grants and “neighborhood stabilization activities,” which ACORN is eligible to apply for. Finally, the bill allocates $650 million for activities related to the switch from analog to digital TV, including $90 million to educate “vulnerable populations” that they need to go out and get their converter boxes or lose their TV signals. Obviously, this is stimulative stuff: Any economist will tell you that you can’t get higher productivity and economic growth without access to reruns of Family Feud.
Summary:
$50 million for the National Endowment for the Arts
$380 million in the Senate bill for the Women, Infants and Children program
$300 million for grants to combat violence against women
$2 billion for federal child-care block grants
$6 billion for university building projects
$15 billion for boosting Pell Grant college scholarships
$4 billion for job-training programs, including $1.2 billion for “youths” up to the age of 24
$1 billion for community-development block grants
$4.2 billion for “neighborhood stabilization activities”
$650 million for digital-TV coupons; $90 million to educate “vulnerable populations”"
The bottom line is that there is a way to fund government agencies, and that is the federal budget, not an “emergency” stimulus package. As Riedl puts it, “Amount allocated to the Census Bureau? $1 billion. Jobs created? None.”
Summary:
$150 million for the Smithsonian
$34 million to renovate the Department of Commerce headquarters
$500 million for improvement projects for National Institutes of Health facilities
$44 million for repairs to Department of Agriculture headquarters
$350 million for Agriculture Department computers
$88 million to help move the Public Health Service into a new building
$448 million for constructing a new Homeland Security Department headquarters
$600 million to convert the federal auto fleet to hybrids
$450 million for NASA (carve-out for “climate-research missions”)
$600 million for NOAA (carve-out for “climate modeling”)
$1 billion for the Census Bureau
INCOME TRANSFERS
A big chunk of the stimulus package is designed not to create wealth but to spread it around. It contains $89 billion in Medicaid extensions and $36 billion in expanded unemployment benefits—and this is in addition to the state-budget bailout (see “Rewarding state irresponsibility” below).
The Medicaid extension is structured as a temporary increase in the federal match, but make no mistake: Like many spending increases in the stimulus package, this one has a good chance of becoming permanent. As for extending unemployment benefits through the downturn, it might be a good idea for other reasons, but it wouldn’t stimulate economic growth: It would provide an incentive for job-seekers to delay reentry into the workforce.
Summary:
$89 billion for Medicaid
$30 billion for COBRA insurance extension
$36 billion for expanded unemployment benefits
$20 billion for food stamps
While some programs would spend lavishly on technologies that are proven failures, others would spend too little to make a difference. The stimulus would spend $4.5 billion to modernize the nation’s electricity grid. But as Robert Samuelson has pointed out, “An industry study in 2004—surely outdated—put the price tag of modernizing the grid at $165 billion.” Most important, the stimulus bill is not the place to make these changes. There is a regular authorization process for energy spending; Obama is just trying to take a shortcut around it.
Summary:
$2 billion for renewable-energy research ($400 million for global-warming research)
$2 billion for a “clean coal” power plant in Illinois
$6.2 billion for the Weatherization Assistance Program
$3.5 billion for energy-efficiency and conservation block grants
$3.4 billion for the State Energy Program
$200 million for state and local electric-transport projects
$300 million for energy-efficient-appliance rebate programs
$400 million for hybrid cars for state and local governments
$1 billion for the manufacturing of advanced batteries
$1.5 billion for green-technology loan guarantees
$8 billion for innovative-technology loan-guarantee program
$2.4 billion for carbon-capture demonstration projects
$4.5 billion for electricity grid
This is the stimulus plan???
This is rushing through pet projects, payback and pork in Washington.
Summary:
$50 million for the National Endowment for the Arts
$380 million in the Senate bill for the Women, Infants and Children program
$300 million for grants to combat violence against women
$2 billion for federal child-care block grants
$6 billion for university building projects
$15 billion for boosting Pell Grant college scholarships
$4 billion for job-training programs, including $1.2 billion for “youths” up to the age of 24
$1 billion for community-development block grants
$4.2 billion for “neighborhood stabilization activities”
$650 million for digital-TV coupons; $90 million to educate “vulnerable populations”"
The bottom line is that there is a way to fund government agencies, and that is the federal budget, not an “emergency” stimulus package. As Riedl puts it, “Amount allocated to the Census Bureau? $1 billion. Jobs created? None.”
Summary:
$150 million for the Smithsonian$34 million to renovate the Department of Commerce headquarters$500 million for improvement projects for National Institutes of Health facilities$44 million for repairs to Department of Agriculture headquarters$350 million for Agriculture Department computers$88 million to help move the Public Health Service into a new building$448 million for constructing a new Homeland Security Department headquarters$600 million to convert the federal auto fleet to hybrids$450 million for NASA (carve-out for “climate-research missions”)$600 million for NOAA (carve-out for “climate modeling”)$1 billion for the Census BureauINCOME TRANSFERS
A big chunk of the stimulus package is designed not to create wealth but to spread it around. It contains $89 billion in Medicaid extensions and $36 billion in expanded unemployment benefits—and this is in addition to the state-budget bailout (see “Rewarding state irresponsibility” below).
The Medicaid extension is structured as a temporary increase in the federal match, but make no mistake: Like many spending increases in the stimulus package, this one has a good chance of becoming permanent. As for extending unemployment benefits through the downturn, it might be a good idea for other reasons, but it wouldn’t stimulate economic growth: It would provide an incentive for job-seekers to delay reentry into the workforce.
Summary:
$89 billion for Medicaid$30 billion for COBRA insurance extension$36 billion for expanded unemployment benefits$20 billion for food stampsWhile some programs would spend lavishly on technologies that are proven failures, others would spend too little to make a difference. The stimulus would spend $4.5 billion to modernize the nation’s electricity grid. But as Robert Samuelson has pointed out, “An industry study in 2004—surely outdated—put the price tag of modernizing the grid at $165 billion.” Most important, the stimulus bill is not the place to make these changes. There is a regular authorization process for energy spending; Obama is just trying to take a shortcut around it.
Summary:
$2 billion for renewable-energy research ($400 million for global-warming research)$2 billion for a “clean coal” power plant in Illinois$6.2 billion for the Weatherization Assistance Program$3.5 billion for energy-efficiency and conservation block grants$3.4 billion for the State Energy Program$200 million for state and local electric-transport projects$300 million for energy-efficient-appliance rebate programs$400 million for hybrid cars for state and local governments$1 billion for the manufacturing of advanced batteries$1.5 billion for green-technology loan guarantees$8 billion for innovative-technology loan-guarantee program$2.4 billion for carbon-capture demonstration projects$4.5 billion for electricity gridThis is the stimulus plan???
This is rushing through pet projects, payback and pork in Washington.
The Killefer Standard - WSJ.com
The Killefer Standard - WSJ.com: "'I screwed up,' the Associated Press, quotes President Obama as saying. He was referring to his nominations of Tom Daschle for secretary of health and human services and Nancy Killefer for White House chief performance officer. Yesterday the president defenestrated both Daschle and Killefer over tax problems.
There's something mildly refreshing about hearing a president spontaneously admit, 'I screwed up.' Yet admitting mistakes is less important than making good decisions in the future, and the evidence suggests that Obama has not learned his lesson--or rather that he has overlearned it. Having been careless or indulgent in his initial personnel choices, the president has reacted by going to the opposite extreme."
There's something mildly refreshing about hearing a president spontaneously admit, 'I screwed up.' Yet admitting mistakes is less important than making good decisions in the future, and the evidence suggests that Obama has not learned his lesson--or rather that he has overlearned it. Having been careless or indulgent in his initial personnel choices, the president has reacted by going to the opposite extreme."
Friday, February 6, 2009
David Limbaugh
David Limbaugh: "Perhaps the silver lining to the new Obama administration's frenetic flurry of executive orders, proposed legislation, 'diplomatic' rhetoric and autocratic commands is that people are getting a bird's-eye view into the misguided perspectives of liberals.
By deifying Obama, his cult followers in the media and grass roots stoked his already exaggerated sense of self-confidence and encouraged him to unmask his true liberalism and unleash, full-bore, his paternalistic mischief. Let's hope that with all the hype, people are focusing and will wake up to the dangers of a hyper-energetic, intermeddling federal government and the unbridled arrogance of those who believe they are better-suited to run our lives than we are."
By deifying Obama, his cult followers in the media and grass roots stoked his already exaggerated sense of self-confidence and encouraged him to unmask his true liberalism and unleash, full-bore, his paternalistic mischief. Let's hope that with all the hype, people are focusing and will wake up to the dangers of a hyper-energetic, intermeddling federal government and the unbridled arrogance of those who believe they are better-suited to run our lives than we are."
IBDeditorials.com: Editorials, Political Cartoons, and Polls from Investor's Business Daily -- Time For Plan B
IBDeditorials.com: Editorials, Political Cartoons, and Polls from Investor's Business Daily -- Time For Plan B: "In his Post opinion piece, Obama lashed out at 'misguided criticisms' of the plan and suggested those who oppose it are somehow acting against the will of Americans who 'went to the polls in November and voted resoundingly for change.'
Change, yes. But not the change that's being offered."
Change, yes. But not the change that's being offered."
Pajamas Media » Obama Lets Media Get Under His Thin Skin
Pajamas Media » Obama Lets Media Get Under His Thin Skin
If President Obama doesn’t like the way the media is treating him, maybe he should talk to former President Bush. The coverage of Obama is overwhelmingly positive and even in that context he complains. On top of that Robert Gibbs is so inept, he makes Scott McClellan look like Mike McCurry of the Clinton era — and that takes some doing.
If President Obama doesn’t like the way the media is treating him, maybe he should talk to former President Bush. The coverage of Obama is overwhelmingly positive and even in that context he complains. On top of that Robert Gibbs is so inept, he makes Scott McClellan look like Mike McCurry of the Clinton era — and that takes some doing.
Finally, Obama’s feeble attempt to attack talk radio and his calling out Rush Limbaugh by name really shows it’s getting to him. Presidents are above that kind of fray and it comes with the job. He’s had two years of adulation; he’s got to get ready for the fall. Clearly he wants to be liked. He’s like Clinton in that way: a guy growing up without a father looks to the adulation to fill the gap. But once you get into the Oval Office, all that stuff has to go by the wayside and you have to work for the people. It’s not talk any more; it’s action.
Dave Daubenmire -- Resistance to Socialism is Building
Dave Daubenmire -- Resistance to Socialism is Building: "“But when a long train of abuses and usurpations, pursuing invariably the same Object evinces a design to reduce them under absolute Despotism, it is their right, it is their duty, to throw off such Government, and to provide new Guards for their future security.” --Declaration of Independence July 4, 1176."
Thursday, February 5, 2009
He's Not 'The Untouchables' - HUMAN EVENTS
He's Not 'The Untouchables' - HUMAN EVENTS: "I learned from the news Tuesday that the stock market went down 64 points for exactly one reason: some fools in Congress have dared to question the Lord Obama’s perfect $1 trillion “stimulus” plan.
This new and improved stimulus is not be confused with the previous $1 trillion bailout from just a few weeks ago, or the $151 billion stimulus checks from a few months before that, or even the $45 billion bailout of auto makers that came in between, or especially the regular federal spending for the year of a whopping $3 trillion. No, this is a new plan to borrow and spend money on a gargantuan scale, and one that will somehow work better than all those others because the man in the White House now “cares” about us peons.
Unfortunately for the people selling this snake oil, someone noticed at some point that the “new” stimulus was really just a collection of stale old pork barrel pet projects that had been relabeled as a carefully considered plan. And opposition to it as nothing but a historic waste of money began to grow. Such obvious interference with supreme wisdom then, apparently, caused everyone who owns stocks (all of whom believe that the plan is just great) to run out and sell stocks randomly in a tantrum. At least that is what the media would have you believe.
“Just give Obama his next trillion and no one gets hurt.” (Wasn’t that from a scene in that movie about Chicago titled, The Untouchables?) Obstruct his masterstroke over little concerns like “we don’t have any money left” or “this won’t really help” and unspecified bad things will happen to us all. This technique of threatening people with a message of doom in the background noise reminds me of a minute detail from the expensive over-education my parents bought me.
This new and improved stimulus is not be confused with the previous $1 trillion bailout from just a few weeks ago, or the $151 billion stimulus checks from a few months before that, or even the $45 billion bailout of auto makers that came in between, or especially the regular federal spending for the year of a whopping $3 trillion. No, this is a new plan to borrow and spend money on a gargantuan scale, and one that will somehow work better than all those others because the man in the White House now “cares” about us peons.
Unfortunately for the people selling this snake oil, someone noticed at some point that the “new” stimulus was really just a collection of stale old pork barrel pet projects that had been relabeled as a carefully considered plan. And opposition to it as nothing but a historic waste of money began to grow. Such obvious interference with supreme wisdom then, apparently, caused everyone who owns stocks (all of whom believe that the plan is just great) to run out and sell stocks randomly in a tantrum. At least that is what the media would have you believe.
“Just give Obama his next trillion and no one gets hurt.” (Wasn’t that from a scene in that movie about Chicago titled, The Untouchables?) Obstruct his masterstroke over little concerns like “we don’t have any money left” or “this won’t really help” and unspecified bad things will happen to us all. This technique of threatening people with a message of doom in the background noise reminds me of a minute detail from the expensive over-education my parents bought me.
Rasmussen Reports™: The Most Comprehensive Public Opinion Site.
Rasmussen Reports™: The Most Comprehensive Public Opinion Site.: "Support for the economic recovery plan working its way through Congress has fallen again this week. For the first time, a plurality of voters nationwide oppose the $800-billion-plus plan.
The latest Rasmussen Reports national telephone survey found that 37% favor the legislation, 43% are opposed, and 20% are not sure.
Two weeks ago, 45% supported the plan. Last week, 42% supported it."
Is there any question now why Obama wanted to push this through so fast declaring it an emergency. The longer people have to look at it the more they realize what a sham it is. If it get's passed every person who votes for it will be looking for a new job when it comes to re-election time.
The latest Rasmussen Reports national telephone survey found that 37% favor the legislation, 43% are opposed, and 20% are not sure.
Two weeks ago, 45% supported the plan. Last week, 42% supported it."
Is there any question now why Obama wanted to push this through so fast declaring it an emergency. The longer people have to look at it the more they realize what a sham it is. If it get's passed every person who votes for it will be looking for a new job when it comes to re-election time.
Hot Air » Blog Archive » Obama names “most fined” Washington State bureaucrat to HUD
Hot Air » Blog Archive » Obama names “most fined” Washington State bureaucrat to HUD: "Barack Obama didn’t do much except run for President during his four years in the US Senate, but he did partner with Tom Coburn on transparency in budgeting. That accomplishment allowed for some hope that Obama would work to make the federal government more transparent. Unfortunately, as our friend Stefan Sharkansky reports from Sound Politics, Obama’s appointment of Ron Sims to the #2 position at HUD sends exactly the opposite message. A court levied the biggest fine for illegal record withholding against Sims in Washington State history — and that record hasn’t finished yet:
Sims is culpable for what may well become the largest fine for violations of public records laws in U.S. history: see Yousoufian, Armen
My own public records suit against Sims (for delaying release of election records which revealed that King County officials unlawfully counted hundreds of ineligible ballots in the 2004 governor’s race) goes to trial in April."
Again filel this one under "that's not change"
American people were so upset with Bush, but he was a lightweight compared to Obama for corruption.
Sims is culpable for what may well become the largest fine for violations of public records laws in U.S. history: see Yousoufian, Armen
My own public records suit against Sims (for delaying release of election records which revealed that King County officials unlawfully counted hundreds of ineligible ballots in the 2004 governor’s race) goes to trial in April."
Again filel this one under "that's not change"
American people were so upset with Bush, but he was a lightweight compared to Obama for corruption.
CIA Nominee Panetta Received $700,000 in Fees - WSJ.com
CIA Nominee Panetta Received $700,000 in Fees - WSJ.com: "WASHINGTON -- The White House's nominee for Director of the Central Intelligence Agency, Leon Panetta, has earned more than $700,000 in speaking and consulting fees since the beginning of 2008, with some of the payments coming from troubled financial firms and from a firm that invests in contractors for federal national security agencies, according to financial disclosures released Wednesday."
Was there not a promise not to hire lobbyists?
Filed under "that's not change"
Was there not a promise not to hire lobbyists?
Filed under "that's not change"
President Obama's Executive Pay Limit Could Be Damaging To New York - wcbstv.com
President Obama's Executive Pay Limit Could Be Damaging To New York - wcbstv.com: "President Obama's Wall Street salary cap may be well intentioned and it certainly taps into public sentiment, but it's a killer for New York.
'Without the talent of Wall Street to bring us back into a position of leadership in the global economy, we're going to be in bad shape as a world economic power,' said Kathryn Wilde of the Partnership for New York."
'Without the talent of Wall Street to bring us back into a position of leadership in the global economy, we're going to be in bad shape as a world economic power,' said Kathryn Wilde of the Partnership for New York."
FOXNews.com - Mexican Drug Cartels Armed to the Hilt, Threatening National Security - International News | News of the World | Middle East News | Europe News
FOXNews.com - Mexican Drug Cartels Armed to the Hilt, Threatening National Security - International News | News of the World | Middle East News | Europe News: "This is modern Mexico, where the leaders of the powerful drug cartels are armed to the teeth with sophisticated weapons, many of which are smuggled over the border from the United States. It is with this array of superior weapons that drug cartels are threatening the very stability of their own country. And it's why America's outgoing CIA Director, Michael Hayden, says violence in Mexico will pose the second greatest threat to U.S. security next year, right after Al Qaeda."
Cheney warns of new attacks - John F. Harris and Mike Allen and Jim VandeHei - Politico.com
Cheney warns of new attacks - John F. Harris and Mike Allen and Jim VandeHei - Politico.com: "Former Vice President Dick Cheney warned that there is a “high probability” that terrorists will attempt a catastrophic nuclear or biological attack in coming years, and said he fears the Obama administration’s policies will make it more likely the attempt will succeed."
Like him or not, he knows what he is talking about. Unfortunately this will fall on deaf ears and only be good for an "I told ya so"
Like him or not, he knows what he is talking about. Unfortunately this will fall on deaf ears and only be good for an "I told ya so"
Obama Justice Nominee Used to Represent Playboy - First 100 Days of Presidency - Politics FOXNews.com
Obama Justice Nominee Used to Represent Playboy - First 100 Days of Presidency - Politics FOXNews.com: "Senators might want to hold David Ogden's confirmation hearing after the kids go to bed.
That's because the man in line to become No. 2 at the nation's top law enforcement agency was once a strident defender of Playboy and other purveyors of nudity.
And some critics are drawing attention to his risque legal work ahead of his Senate Judiciary Committee hearing Thursday. In one case, Ogden paved the way for the blind to enjoy Playboy at the Library of Congress.
'There's essentially a question of propriety,' said Brian Burch, president of the religious conservative group, Fidelis -- which released a critical report on Ogden's past representation. Burch co-signed a letter this week to committee members raising flags about Ogden, up for deputy attorney general, and other nominees."
This nation is going to the dogs. I don't mind Playboy certainly, but the principels in government should be better than this.
That's because the man in line to become No. 2 at the nation's top law enforcement agency was once a strident defender of Playboy and other purveyors of nudity.
And some critics are drawing attention to his risque legal work ahead of his Senate Judiciary Committee hearing Thursday. In one case, Ogden paved the way for the blind to enjoy Playboy at the Library of Congress.
'There's essentially a question of propriety,' said Brian Burch, president of the religious conservative group, Fidelis -- which released a critical report on Ogden's past representation. Burch co-signed a letter this week to committee members raising flags about Ogden, up for deputy attorney general, and other nominees."
This nation is going to the dogs. I don't mind Playboy certainly, but the principels in government should be better than this.
Conservative Groups Declare Obama's Stimulus Bill a War on Prayer - Presidential Politics | Political News - FOXNews.com
Conservative Groups Declare Obama's Stimulus Bill a War on Prayer - Presidential Politics | Political News - FOXNews.com: "Democrats in Congress have declared war on prayer, say conservative groups who object to a provision in the stimulus bill that was passed by the House of Representatives last week.
The provision bans money designated for school renovation from being spent on facilities that allow 'religious worship.' It has ignited a fury among critics who say it violates the First Amendment and is an attempt to prevent religious practice in schools.
According to the bill, which the Democratic-controlled House passed despite unanimous Republican opposition, funds are prohibited from being used for the 'modernization, renovation, or repair' of facilities that allow 'sectarian instruction, religious worship or a school or department of divinity.'
Critics say that could include public schools that permit religious groups to meet on campus. The House provided $20 billion for the infrastructure improvements, of which $6 billion would go to higher education facilities where the limitations would be applied."
The provision bans money designated for school renovation from being spent on facilities that allow 'religious worship.' It has ignited a fury among critics who say it violates the First Amendment and is an attempt to prevent religious practice in schools.
According to the bill, which the Democratic-controlled House passed despite unanimous Republican opposition, funds are prohibited from being used for the 'modernization, renovation, or repair' of facilities that allow 'sectarian instruction, religious worship or a school or department of divinity.'
Critics say that could include public schools that permit religious groups to meet on campus. The House provided $20 billion for the infrastructure improvements, of which $6 billion would go to higher education facilities where the limitations would be applied."
Tear gas fired on Vatican office in Venezuela - CNN.com
Tear gas fired on Vatican office in Venezuela - CNN.com: "CARACAS, Venezuela (CNN) -- Three tear gas canisters were fired Wednesday at the Vatican's diplomatic headquarters in Venezuela, the second such attack in less than three weeks, church officials and local media reports said.
No one was reported injured, and damage was minimal.
The incident occurred just hours after the Venezuelan Episcopal Conference, which includes Catholics, issued a proclamation condemning a recent attack on the main synagogue in Caracas, Venezuela."
No one was reported injured, and damage was minimal.
The incident occurred just hours after the Venezuelan Episcopal Conference, which includes Catholics, issued a proclamation condemning a recent attack on the main synagogue in Caracas, Venezuela."
Mexico drug fighter killed after less than a day on job - CNN.com
Mexico drug fighter killed after less than a day on job - CNN.com: "MEXICO CITY, Mexico (CNN) -- A recently retired Mexican army general whose bullet-riddled body was found Tuesday near Cancun had taken over as the area's top antidrug official less than 24 hours earlier, officials said.
Retired Gen. Mauro Enrique Tello Quiñonez, his aide and a driver were tortured before being killed, said Quintana Roo state prosecutor Bello Melchor Rodriguez y Carrillo. He said there was no doubt Tello and the others were victims of organized crime."
Retired Gen. Mauro Enrique Tello Quiñonez, his aide and a driver were tortured before being killed, said Quintana Roo state prosecutor Bello Melchor Rodriguez y Carrillo. He said there was no doubt Tello and the others were victims of organized crime."
Man jailed for taking 50 cents 24 years ago | Oddly Enough | Reuters
Man jailed for taking 50 cents 24 years ago | Oddly Enough | Reuters: "PATNA, India (Reuters) - An Indian court sentenced a 75-year-old doctor to jail for accepting half a dollar as a bribe nearly a quarter of a century ago, officials said Wednesday."
99-year-old man on trial for swindling | Oddly Enough | Reuters
99-year-old man on trial for swindling | Oddly Enough | Reuters: "BEIJING (Reuters) - A 99-year-old Chinese man has gone on trial in Beijing accused of swindling some 750,000 yuan ($109,700) from an American, the oldest criminal defendant ever in the city, domestic media said Wednesday."
Frozen chicken brings cafe thief undone | Oddly Enough | Reuters
Frozen chicken brings cafe thief undone | Oddly Enough | Reuters: "CANBERRA (Reuters) - A thief who used a frozen chicken as a tool to break into a cafe was caught after he cut his wrist and was forced to phone an ambulance, Australian police said Wednesday."
Judge rules TV essential, awards damages | Oddly Enough | Reuters
Judge rules TV essential, awards damages | Oddly Enough | Reuters: "A Brazilian judge awarded $2,600 in damages to a man who sued a store for not replacing his faulty television set, ruling that it was an 'essential good' needed to watch soccer and a popular reality TV show."
Woman jailed over $30,000 parking fine | Oddly Enough | Reuters
Woman jailed over $30,000 parking fine | Oddly Enough | Reuters: "VIENNA (Reuters) - An Austrian woman has begun a 500-day jail sentence for ignoring parking tickets and failing to pay a cumulative fine of around 24,000 euros ($30,860), police said Tuesday."
Wednesday, February 4, 2009
Injured man dies after rejection by 14 hospitals - Yahoo! News
Injured man dies after rejection by 14 hospitals - Yahoo! News: "TOKYO – After getting struck by a motorcycle, an elderly Japanese man with head injuries waited in an ambulance as paramedics phoned 14 hospitals, each refusing to treat him.
He died 90 minutes later at the facility that finally relented — one of thousands of victims repeatedly turned away in recent years by understaffed and overcrowded hospitals in Japan."
THIS is the REALITY of nationalized health care
He died 90 minutes later at the facility that finally relented — one of thousands of victims repeatedly turned away in recent years by understaffed and overcrowded hospitals in Japan."
THIS is the REALITY of nationalized health care
Obama Saves the World (someone get that man a cape)
Obama Saves the World (someone get that man a cape): "You see, after only two days of Obama style ‘change’ and already Obama has given the green light to bombing a sovereign state (Pakistan). As usual, innocent civilians were killed."
File this under .... That's not change
File this under .... That's not change
Obama executive orders continue “extraordinary renditions,” secret CIA prisons
Obama executive orders continue “extraordinary renditions,” secret CIA prisons: "Analysis of the executive orders US President Barack Obama signed on January 22 shows that the Untied States will continue to be heavily involved in illegal practices including kidnapping, secret detention and torture. The orders ostensibly ended torture and a network of secret Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) prison camps.
The Los Angeles Times published a report on the executive orders, however, showing that they allow the continued use of 'extraordinary rendition' by the CIA, whereby the US secretly abducts individuals it claims are terrorists, sending them to nations that practice torture. (See 'Obama preserves renditions as counter-terrorism tool.')
Obama is not only contemplating preserving rendition; he foresees using it more than the Bush administration. The Los Angeles Times cites unnamed US intelligence officials who say, 'The rendition program might be poised to play an expanded role going forward because it was the main remaining mechanism—aside from Predator missile strikes—for taking suspected terrorists off the street.'"
The Los Angeles Times published a report on the executive orders, however, showing that they allow the continued use of 'extraordinary rendition' by the CIA, whereby the US secretly abducts individuals it claims are terrorists, sending them to nations that practice torture. (See 'Obama preserves renditions as counter-terrorism tool.')
Obama is not only contemplating preserving rendition; he foresees using it more than the Bush administration. The Los Angeles Times cites unnamed US intelligence officials who say, 'The rendition program might be poised to play an expanded role going forward because it was the main remaining mechanism—aside from Predator missile strikes—for taking suspected terrorists off the street.'"
World's youngest sex-change operation - Telegraph
World's youngest sex-change operation - Telegraph: "World's youngest sex-change operation
German teenager Kim Petras has become the world's youngest transsexual after undergoing an operation at the age of just 16."
Tim or Kim?????
German teenager Kim Petras has become the world's youngest transsexual after undergoing an operation at the age of just 16."
Tim or Kim?????
Obama: Catastrophe coming if Congress does not act - USATODAY.com
Obama: Catastrophe coming if Congress does not act - USATODAY.com: "WASHINGTON (AP) — President Obama said Wednesday the recession will turn into 'a catastrophe' if the federal economic stimulus is not passed quickly, lobbying anew for the plan as its price tag climbed above $900 billion and drew more criticism."
For a man who toted not to accept anyone who tries to scare you, he is doing a hell of a job to press this bill that pays ACORN for it's services of voter fraud.
For a man who toted not to accept anyone who tries to scare you, he is doing a hell of a job to press this bill that pays ACORN for it's services of voter fraud.
Tuesday, February 3, 2009
Rush Limbaugh Exposes Obama's Audacity of Hype, Not Hope - HUMAN EVENTS
Rush Limbaugh Exposes Obama's Audacity of Hype, Not Hope - HUMAN EVENTS: "When Barack Obama was running for president, he promised healthcare for everyone if elected, and Rush Limbaugh called it “socialized medicine.” Obama pledged to raise taxes on incomes over $250,000 a year, and Limbaugh called it “punishing excellence.” He promised to “talk to our enemies,” and Limbaugh warned of the dire consequences of appeasement. In fact, every time Obama described an aspect of the “audacity of hope,” Limbaugh was there to parse the words and tell the American people exactly what the Left was planning to do should they win the election.
And although the Democrats control the White House, the House, and the Senate, Limbaugh continues to parse Obama’s words, as well as the words of Speaker Nancy Pelosi, Barney “You go, girl” Frank, and that little man from Nevada, Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid. As a result, we now know that the stimulus package the Democrats are pushing is more hype than hope."
And although the Democrats control the White House, the House, and the Senate, Limbaugh continues to parse Obama’s words, as well as the words of Speaker Nancy Pelosi, Barney “You go, girl” Frank, and that little man from Nevada, Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid. As a result, we now know that the stimulus package the Democrats are pushing is more hype than hope."
Pelosi Fast-Tracking Huge Bills - ROGUEGOVERNMENT.COM
Pelosi Fast-Tracking Huge Bills - ROGUEGOVERNMENT.COM: "A group of about 55 Democrats, many of them members of the fiscally conservative Blue Dog caucus, are imploring their leadership in the House to change controversial rules intended to bypass lengthy committee hearings and amendments.
In recent months, Speaker Nancy Pelosi has suspended 'regular order' to fast-track huge bills, including the bank bailouts and the stimulus package -- angering many committee and subcommittee chairs who resented being shut out of decision-making.
The group is appealing to Majority Leader Steny Hoyer, who is close to the Blue Dogs, complaining such actions are an invitation to the kind of abuses seen during more than a decade of 'one-party Republican rule,' according to a draft letter intended for Hoyer."
Even democrats are infighting over Pelosi's mentality of knowing what is best for the rest of us.
SHE HAS TO GO!
In recent months, Speaker Nancy Pelosi has suspended 'regular order' to fast-track huge bills, including the bank bailouts and the stimulus package -- angering many committee and subcommittee chairs who resented being shut out of decision-making.
The group is appealing to Majority Leader Steny Hoyer, who is close to the Blue Dogs, complaining such actions are an invitation to the kind of abuses seen during more than a decade of 'one-party Republican rule,' according to a draft letter intended for Hoyer."
Even democrats are infighting over Pelosi's mentality of knowing what is best for the rest of us.
SHE HAS TO GO!
Official: Performance czar withdraws candidacy
Official: Performance czar withdraws candidacy: "WASHINGTON (AP) - Nancy Killefer, who failed for a year and a half to pay employment taxes on household help, has withdrawn her candidacy to be the first chief performance officer for the federal government, the White House said Tuesday.
Killefer was the second major Obama administration nominee to withdraw and the third to have tax problems complicate their nomination after President Barack Obama announced their selection.
'Nancy Killefer has decided to withdraw her nomination, and we accepted her withdrawal,' Tommy Vietor, a White House spokesman, said Tuesday. The 55-year-old executive with consulting giant McKinsey & Co., was expected to explain her reasons for pulling out later in the day.
When her selection was announced by Obama on Jan. 7, The Associated Press disclosed that in 2005 the District of Columbia government had filed a $946.69 tax lien on her home for failure to pay unemployment compensation tax on household help.
Since then, administration officials refused to answer questions about the tax error, which she resolved five months after the lien was filed. Obama's first choice for commerce secretary, New Mexico Gov. Bill Richardson, took his name out of consideration when his confirmation appeared headed toward complications because of a grand jury investigation over how state contracts were issued to political donors"
Killefer was the second major Obama administration nominee to withdraw and the third to have tax problems complicate their nomination after President Barack Obama announced their selection.
'Nancy Killefer has decided to withdraw her nomination, and we accepted her withdrawal,' Tommy Vietor, a White House spokesman, said Tuesday. The 55-year-old executive with consulting giant McKinsey & Co., was expected to explain her reasons for pulling out later in the day.
When her selection was announced by Obama on Jan. 7, The Associated Press disclosed that in 2005 the District of Columbia government had filed a $946.69 tax lien on her home for failure to pay unemployment compensation tax on household help.
Since then, administration officials refused to answer questions about the tax error, which she resolved five months after the lien was filed. Obama's first choice for commerce secretary, New Mexico Gov. Bill Richardson, took his name out of consideration when his confirmation appeared headed toward complications because of a grand jury investigation over how state contracts were issued to political donors"
Cabinet of the corrupt - BostonHerald.com
Cabinet of the corrupt - BostonHerald.com: "First Tim Geithner. Now Tom Daschle? Who’s Obama’s next cabinet pick - Wesley Snipes? Dianne Wilkerson?
Not to upset the loyal O-Bots out there, but the last guy from Chicago to have this much income tax trouble was Al Capone. And at last report, he still had an outside shot at getting Commerce secretary.
President Obama pledged to change Washington, and he has. Before Obama, tax cheats used to lose jobs."
Not to upset the loyal O-Bots out there, but the last guy from Chicago to have this much income tax trouble was Al Capone. And at last report, he still had an outside shot at getting Commerce secretary.
President Obama pledged to change Washington, and he has. Before Obama, tax cheats used to lose jobs."
Calls for Obama to deport illegal aunt
Calls for Obama to deport illegal aunt: "After President Obama's illegal alien aunt defied deportation orders, one group has filed an arrest request with Immigration and Customs Enforcement and is publicly demanding that the president deport her.
Americans for Legal Immigration PAC, or ALIPAC, is urging Obama to honor his rhetoric about the rule of law by ousting Zeituni Onyango from the United States.
'President Obama has promised the American public that his administration will honor the principles of open government, the Constitution, and the Rule of Law,' ALIPAC President William Gheen said. 'Obama must either deport his aunt or destroy his own credibility by showing her favoritism.'"
Americans for Legal Immigration PAC, or ALIPAC, is urging Obama to honor his rhetoric about the rule of law by ousting Zeituni Onyango from the United States.
'President Obama has promised the American public that his administration will honor the principles of open government, the Constitution, and the Rule of Law,' ALIPAC President William Gheen said. 'Obama must either deport his aunt or destroy his own credibility by showing her favoritism.'"
Homeland Security News » Man Arrested In Suspicious Powder Mailings
Homeland Security News » Man Arrested In Suspicious Powder Mailings: "A man apparently upset about losing more than $60,000 when the government took over a failed bank has been arrested on charges alleging he mailed threatening letters containing suspicious powder to banks and federal offices, authorities said Tuesday."
Lost thief holes up in bank lavatory | Oddly Enough | Reuters
Lost thief holes up in bank lavatory | Oddly Enough | Reuters: "MARSEILLE, France (Reuters) - A hapless thief drilled his way into a French bank at the weekend, but missed the safe and instead found himself in a lavatory where he was promptly arrested, a French newspaper reported on Sunday.
The 21-year-old broke into a building adjoining a branch of Banque Populaire in the Mediterranean port city of Marseille in the early hours of Saturday morning, La Provence newspaper said.
The paper said the man, who came from Belgium and was not named, thought that he was going to end up in a room housing safe deposit boxes but instead drilled into the lavatories.
Alarms were triggered when he broke through the wall and police caught the man when they arrived on the scene."
The 21-year-old broke into a building adjoining a branch of Banque Populaire in the Mediterranean port city of Marseille in the early hours of Saturday morning, La Provence newspaper said.
The paper said the man, who came from Belgium and was not named, thought that he was going to end up in a room housing safe deposit boxes but instead drilled into the lavatories.
Alarms were triggered when he broke through the wall and police caught the man when they arrived on the scene."
Obama’s Ethics Reform Pledge Faces an Early Test - NYTimes.com
Obama’s Ethics Reform Pledge Faces an Early Test - NYTimes.com: "WASHINGTON — During almost two years on the campaign trail, Barack Obama vowed to slay the demons of Washington, bar lobbyists from his administration and usher in what he would later call in his Inaugural Address a “new era of responsibility.” What he did not talk much about were the asterisks.
The exceptions that went unmentioned now include a pair of cabinet nominees who did not pay all of their taxes. Then there is the lobbyist for a military contractor who is now slated to become the No. 2 official in the Pentagon. And there are the others brought into government from the influence industry"
Don't tell me the love fest is over!
Why is the New York Times FINALLY reporting something we all said in the beginning of learning what OBAMA really is?
Are they out of Love? Is the Honeymoon over?
Is the times going to become a reputable newspaper again reporting the truth to protect the Constitution and the Citizens as it was designed to?
The exceptions that went unmentioned now include a pair of cabinet nominees who did not pay all of their taxes. Then there is the lobbyist for a military contractor who is now slated to become the No. 2 official in the Pentagon. And there are the others brought into government from the influence industry"
Don't tell me the love fest is over!
Why is the New York Times FINALLY reporting something we all said in the beginning of learning what OBAMA really is?
Are they out of Love? Is the Honeymoon over?
Is the times going to become a reputable newspaper again reporting the truth to protect the Constitution and the Citizens as it was designed to?
Obama playing politics again
GOP leaders are warning that President Barack Obama’s likely appointment of Republican Sen. Judd Gregg to serve as secretary of commerce could finally hand Democrats what they failed to win on Election Day: a 60-vote Senate majority that would render Republicans powerless to filibuster any legislation.
On Friday, reports surfaced that Gregg, of New Hampshire, is likely to be tapped by Obama this week for the job.
Gregg confirmed that he is under consideration for the post, describing himself as “honored.”
But the move has Republicans worried, as Gregg’s replacement will be made by New Hampshire’s Democratic governor, John Lynch.
Sen. Jon Kyl, R-Ariz., called Obama’s move “sneaky.” If a Democrat is appointed to fill Gregg’s slot, Republican senators will no longer have veto power over Democratic legislation.
This weekend, Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., claimed that Gregg had negotiated a deal with Lynch that he “would be replaced by someone who would affiliate with other Republicans in the Senate.”
But The New York Times on Sunday had a starkly different take. The paper said that Gregg had only gotten a commitment from Lynch that he is “open to appointing a Republican to the seat.”
Gregg, 61, has received strong marks for his work on the Wall Street bailout package.
He is expected to face a costly battle to retain his Senate seat in 2010 if he decides to run for re-election. A three-term senator, he is the ranking member of the Senate Budget Committee.
The appointment of Gregg would fit in with Obama’s bipartisan charm offensive, which the media has applauded. But others find Obama’s choice curious, noting that Obama was not particularly close to Gregg while they served in the Senate together.
But if Gregg leaves the Senate to serve in Obama’s Cabinet, the number of GOP senators would drop to 40, giving Democrats the filibuster-proof majority they have coveted.
GOP Sen. Norm Coleman’s court battle against Al Franken in Minnesota remains undecided.
If Lynch does appoint a Democrat, Obama’s image as a bipartisan healer would receive a boost at the same time his party gained unfettered control of the Senate.
GOP senators reacted coolly to the prospect Gregg’s nomination.
Sen. John Cornyn, R-Texas, told Politico that Gregg’s relocation to the Cabinet would be a “great loss” to the Senate. Asked by Politico what could be done to persuade Gregg, Cornyn responded: “I would say whatever it is, name it.”
If Lynch appoints a Republican to fill Gregg’s seat, he would likely chose a Republican caretaker – someone unlikely to run for the job in 2010, such as former GOP Sen. Warren Rudman.
That would make the seat a prime target for Democrats, further complicating the electoral math for Republicans in a year that already has seen several Republicans announce their impending retirements.
White House Press Secretary Robert Gibbs said Friday no final decision has been made on the commerce secretary job.
Democrats, not surprisingly, think the nomination is a good idea.
“He’s one of my best friends in the Senate, and he’s competent in doing anything he wants to do,” gushed House Majority Leader Harry Reid, D-Nev.
The importance of Republicans’ role as the loyal opposition was recently highlighted in the battle over the trillion-dollar stimulus package, where not a single house Republican voted for it. Attention immediately focused on the Senate, where Democrats aim to persuade five to 10 Republicans to cross the aisle so they can maintain that the package received bipartisan political support.
Sen. Christopher Bond, R-Mo., told CQPolitics that losing Gregg “would be a real blow” to Republicans.
Monday, February 2, 2009
Virginia Congressman Wants Details on FBI Freeze of CAIR :: Articles by IPT :: The Investigative Project on Terrorism
Virginia Congressman Wants Details on FBI Freeze of CAIR :: Articles by IPT :: The Investigative Project on Terrorism
It is so blatant that only a blind man couldn't see it, but U.S. Rep. Frank Wolf wants more information. I wonder who has contributed to his campaign coffers?
It is so blatant that only a blind man couldn't see it, but U.S. Rep. Frank Wolf wants more information. I wonder who has contributed to his campaign coffers?
PolitiFact | No. 234: Allow five days of public comment before signing bills
PolitiFact | No. 234: Allow five days of public comment before signing bills: "Obama signs first law without Web comment
Updated: Thursday, January 29th, 2009 | By Angie Drobnic Holan
One of President Obama's major campaign planks was making government more open and accountable. It's a reaction to a habit in Congress of rushing bills through the House and Senate without giving people much opportunity to know what the bills would do. Indeed, sometimes members of Congress don't even know what's in the bills.
So Obama pledged during the campaign to institute 'sunlight before signing.'
'Too often bills are rushed through Congress and to the president before the public has the opportunity to review them,' Obama's campaign Web site states. 'As president, Obama will not sign any non-emergency bill without giving the American public an opportunity to review and comment on the White House website for five days.'
But the first bill Obama signed into law as president -- the Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Act -- got no such vetting.
In fact, the Congressional Record shows that the law was passed in the Senate on Jan. 22, 2009, passed in the House on Jan. 27, and signed by the president on Jan. 29. So only two days passed between the bill's final passage and the signing.
The legislation was not posted to the White House Web site for comment in any way that we could find."
Updated: Thursday, January 29th, 2009 | By Angie Drobnic Holan
One of President Obama's major campaign planks was making government more open and accountable. It's a reaction to a habit in Congress of rushing bills through the House and Senate without giving people much opportunity to know what the bills would do. Indeed, sometimes members of Congress don't even know what's in the bills.
So Obama pledged during the campaign to institute 'sunlight before signing.'
'Too often bills are rushed through Congress and to the president before the public has the opportunity to review them,' Obama's campaign Web site states. 'As president, Obama will not sign any non-emergency bill without giving the American public an opportunity to review and comment on the White House website for five days.'
But the first bill Obama signed into law as president -- the Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Act -- got no such vetting.
In fact, the Congressional Record shows that the law was passed in the Senate on Jan. 22, 2009, passed in the House on Jan. 27, and signed by the president on Jan. 29. So only two days passed between the bill's final passage and the signing.
The legislation was not posted to the White House Web site for comment in any way that we could find."
To reduce bills rushed through Congress and to the president before the public has the opportunity to review them, Obama "will not sign any non-emergency bill without giving the American public an opportunity to review and comment on the White House website for five days."
Sources: Obama ethics plan
He has NO ETHICS.Taxing the Miles You Drive. GPS to Track and Record All Vehicles? - Associated Content
Taxing the Miles You Drive. GPS to Track and Record All Vehicles? - Associated Content: "Taxing the Miles You Drive. GPS to Track and Record All Vehicles?
February 02, 2009 by
There Ought to Be a Law!
Gas prices were too high and we weren't green enough. Fine, buy an electric car or gas saving car and all is fine. Right? Wrong. The
Oregon Governor thinks gas taxes are going away. His answer? Tax the miles you drive. Tax the miles you drive with GPS technology. Think they are kidding? They're not."
February 02, 2009 by
There Ought to Be a Law!
Gas prices were too high and we weren't green enough. Fine, buy an electric car or gas saving car and all is fine. Right? Wrong. The
Oregon Governor thinks gas taxes are going away. His answer? Tax the miles you drive. Tax the miles you drive with GPS technology. Think they are kidding? They're not."
NRA-ILA :: Anti-Gun Deception On The Senate Floor
NRA-ILA :: Anti-Gun Deception On The Senate Floor: "As we reported last week, legislation to require a federal license to possess any detachable-magazine semi-automatic rifle or shotgun, or any handgun, has been introduced in Congress. Bills to re-impose the federal 'assault weapon' and 'large' magazine ban, or to impose a much broader ban, have been introduced in Congress since 2003, and will likely be introduced in the current Congress soon.
Already, the deliberate deceptions we heard from anti-gunners previously are resurfacing. Anti-gun Sen. Carl Levin, (D-Mich.), said Thursday on the floor of the Senate that 'assault weapons' are 'capable of firing up to 600 rounds per minute' and that they are 'once again pervading our streets and neighborhoods.'
Did we mention that our opponents are deliberately deceptive?"
Already, the deliberate deceptions we heard from anti-gunners previously are resurfacing. Anti-gun Sen. Carl Levin, (D-Mich.), said Thursday on the floor of the Senate that 'assault weapons' are 'capable of firing up to 600 rounds per minute' and that they are 'once again pervading our streets and neighborhoods.'
Did we mention that our opponents are deliberately deceptive?"
Obama voices concern about freed Guantanamo inmates | Politics | Reuters
Obama voices concern about freed Guantanamo inmates | Politics | Reuters: "'Can we guarantee that they're not going to try to participate in another attack? No,' Obama said. 'But what I can guarantee is that if we don't uphold our Constitution and our values, that over time that will make us less safe. And that will be a recruitment tool for organizations like al-Qaeda.'"
I know as an American that I want the constitution upheld. That includes the the first and second amendment's not to mention all the rest of them!
Will this also mean that the government will start doing what the majority of people want as they are intended to as our representatives, or will they continue to do as they see fit because they "know better" what is good for us as they have been in Congress?
I know as an American that I want the constitution upheld. That includes the the first and second amendment's not to mention all the rest of them!
Will this also mean that the government will start doing what the majority of people want as they are intended to as our representatives, or will they continue to do as they see fit because they "know better" what is good for us as they have been in Congress?
Evil Conservative Radio Blog: Obama's First 12 Days: Russia, Iran, N. Korea Have Started Pushing America Around - Patrick Gibson - Right Wing News and Commentary
Evil Conservative Radio Blog: Obama's First 12 Days: Russia, Iran, N. Korea Have Started Pushing America Around - Patrick Gibson - Right Wing News and Commentary: "Just like the Obama supporters would have you believe, it really IS a brand new day, full of hope and opportunity and joy! Wait, you mean you thought Obama's campaign promises were for US? Not exactly. But while Obama spreads his particular brand of hopelessness around American markets, world tyrants like Vladimir Putin, Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, and Kim Jong Il are acting like Boris Yeltsin at an open bar and wasting no time in making bellicose gestures designed to make America look bad."
Evil Conservative Radio Blog: Obama's First 12 Days: Russia, Iran, N. Korea Have Started Pushing America Around - Patrick Gibson - Right Wing News and Commentary
Evil Conservative Radio Blog: Obama's First 12 Days: Russia, Iran, N. Korea Have Started Pushing America Around - Patrick Gibson - Right Wing News and Commentary: "Just like the Obama supporters would have you believe, it really IS a brand new day, full of hope and opportunity and joy! Wait, you mean you thought Obama's campaign promises were for US? Not exactly. But while Obama spreads his particular brand of hopelessness around American markets, world tyrants like Vladimir Putin, Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, and Kim Jong Il are acting like Boris Yeltsin at an open bar and wasting no time in making bellicose gestures designed to make America look bad."
Obama preserves renditions as counter-terrorism tool - Los Angeles Times
Obama preserves renditions as counter-terrorism tool - Los Angeles Times: "Reporting from Washington -- The CIA's secret prisons are being shuttered. Harsh interrogation techniques are off-limits. And Guantanamo Bay will eventually go back to being a wind-swept naval base on the southeastern corner of Cuba.
But even while dismantling these programs, President Obama left intact an equally controversial counter-terrorism tool."
Is not this the issue that everyone was up in arms about that Bush was a terrorist?
Where is the outcry that Obama is kidnapping people?
But even while dismantling these programs, President Obama left intact an equally controversial counter-terrorism tool."
Is not this the issue that everyone was up in arms about that Bush was a terrorist?
Where is the outcry that Obama is kidnapping people?
Al-Qaeda figure surrenders in Algeria: reports - Yahoo! News
Al-Qaeda figure surrenders in Algeria: reports - Yahoo! News: "member of Al-Qaeda's North African branch has surrendered to …
ALGIERS (AFP) – A leading member of Al-Qaeda's North African branch has surrendered to Algerian authorities, several newspapers reported Sunday, citing security sources.
Ali Ben Touati, said to be a key leader of the Al-Qaeda Organisation in the Land of the Islamic Maghreb (AQIM), gave himself up in Yakouren in the Tizi Ouzou region east of the capital Algiers, the El Watan and Algerie News newspapers said.
According to the reports Ben Touati, also known as Abou Tamime, said he was responding to a recent appeal by one of the leading Islamist militants in Algeria, Hassan Hattab.
Hattab called on militants to end their armed campaign in a message earlier this month in which he urged his followers to take advantage of a government amnesty.
The North African country, wracked by more than a decade of Islamist violence, adopted a national reconciliation charter offering the amnesty in a 2006 referendum.
Hattab was a founder member of the feared militant group, the Salafist Group for Preaching and Combat, which aligned itself with Osama Bin Laden's network in 2007 to become the AQIM.
'I advise you to stop what you are doing and rejoin society and your families,' he wrote in the January 18 message, adding that he condemned the organization's repeated acts of violence "which serve neither Islam nor Muslims"."
ALGIERS (AFP) – A leading member of Al-Qaeda's North African branch has surrendered to Algerian authorities, several newspapers reported Sunday, citing security sources.
Ali Ben Touati, said to be a key leader of the Al-Qaeda Organisation in the Land of the Islamic Maghreb (AQIM), gave himself up in Yakouren in the Tizi Ouzou region east of the capital Algiers, the El Watan and Algerie News newspapers said.
According to the reports Ben Touati, also known as Abou Tamime, said he was responding to a recent appeal by one of the leading Islamist militants in Algeria, Hassan Hattab.
Hattab called on militants to end their armed campaign in a message earlier this month in which he urged his followers to take advantage of a government amnesty.
The North African country, wracked by more than a decade of Islamist violence, adopted a national reconciliation charter offering the amnesty in a 2006 referendum.
Hattab was a founder member of the feared militant group, the Salafist Group for Preaching and Combat, which aligned itself with Osama Bin Laden's network in 2007 to become the AQIM.
'I advise you to stop what you are doing and rejoin society and your families,' he wrote in the January 18 message, adding that he condemned the organization's repeated acts of violence "which serve neither Islam nor Muslims"."
Justice Dept. Under Obama Is Preparing for Doctrinal Shift in Policies of Bush Years - NYTimes.com
Justice Dept. Under Obama Is Preparing for Doctrinal Shift in Policies of Bush Years - NYTimes.com: "“This will be a sea change of what went on before,” said an Obama administration lawyer, noting that the principal authority over detention policies will move from the Defense Department under the Bush administration to the Justice Department."
THIS IS AN OUTRAGE!
This is what Clinton did and is EXACTLY what got us in the mess of 9/11!
After each of 9 terrorist attacks against the United States and our interests Bill Clinton stated that the Justice Department would track down those responsible and hold them accountable. Each time they became more and more bold on their attacks and no one was ever brought to justice who could be held accountable for the issuing of the orders.
The Army will go after the command of the Taliban, will the Justice Department? I don't think so, they will have burdens of proof to make to obtain warrants. How do you get a suicide bomber o confess that he bombed something on someones orders?
IS THIS CHANGE????
THIS IS AN OUTRAGE!
This is what Clinton did and is EXACTLY what got us in the mess of 9/11!
After each of 9 terrorist attacks against the United States and our interests Bill Clinton stated that the Justice Department would track down those responsible and hold them accountable. Each time they became more and more bold on their attacks and no one was ever brought to justice who could be held accountable for the issuing of the orders.
The Army will go after the command of the Taliban, will the Justice Department? I don't think so, they will have burdens of proof to make to obtain warrants. How do you get a suicide bomber o confess that he bombed something on someones orders?
IS THIS CHANGE????
AP Analysis: Qatar at heart of Mideast `cold war' - Yahoo! News
AP Analysis: Qatar at heart of Mideast `cold war' - Yahoo! News: "DUBAI, United Arab Emirates – During back-to-back summits in recent days, tiny Qatar displayed some big mood swings.
First the Persian Gulf emirate hosted a Gaza crisis conference that included Iran's president and Hamas' leader and became a soapbox to bash America and its Mideast allies. Then three days later in Kuwait, Qatari leaders had lunch with Saudi King Abdullah and gushed about unity with Washington's top Arab partners.
President Barack Obama has inherited the familiar map of Arab-Israeli minefields. But off to the side — sticking like an exclamation point into the Gulf — Qatar could quickly become a quandary for the new White House.
'It looks a bit like a cold war in the Middle East now. There's the side firmly with the United States and (Palestinian President Mahmoud) Abbas, and the others backing Hamas and, by extension, seen as moving toward Iran,' said Nadim Shehadi, a Mideast affairs specialist at the Royal Institute of International Affairs in London.
'And, like with a cold war, no side is willing to push it too hard because the risks are so great,' he added.
Nearly every high-stakes question in the Middle East these days somehow draws in Qatar, which is the just half the size of Belgiumbut strives for a place alongside Arab heavyweights such as Egypt and Saudi Arabia.
First the Persian Gulf emirate hosted a Gaza crisis conference that included Iran's president and Hamas' leader and became a soapbox to bash America and its Mideast allies. Then three days later in Kuwait, Qatari leaders had lunch with Saudi King Abdullah and gushed about unity with Washington's top Arab partners.
President Barack Obama has inherited the familiar map of Arab-Israeli minefields. But off to the side — sticking like an exclamation point into the Gulf — Qatar could quickly become a quandary for the new White House.
'It looks a bit like a cold war in the Middle East now. There's the side firmly with the United States and (Palestinian President Mahmoud) Abbas, and the others backing Hamas and, by extension, seen as moving toward Iran,' said Nadim Shehadi, a Mideast affairs specialist at the Royal Institute of International Affairs in London.
'And, like with a cold war, no side is willing to push it too hard because the risks are so great,' he added.
Nearly every high-stakes question in the Middle East these days somehow draws in Qatar, which is the just half the size of Belgiumbut strives for a place alongside Arab heavyweights such as Egypt and Saudi Arabia.
It is rich in oil and gas reserves, has wide influence in the Muslim world as the patron of the Al-Jazeera TV network, and has proved adroit at maneuvering between rivals.
"You sometimes get the feeling that Qatar has multiple personalities," said Mustafa Alani, director of national security and terrorism studies at the Gulf Research Center in Dubai. "It's hard to say which one will show up."
Oh and they forgot to mention who has been buying major stock in the holdings of MSNBC, CBS, CNN and FOX news if you think I am kidding, check it for yourself.
FOXNews.com - Gunmen Kidnap American U.N. Official in Pakistan - International News | News of the World | Middle East News | Europe News
FOXNews.com - Gunmen Kidnap American U.N. Official in Pakistan - International News | News of the World | Middle East News | Europe News: "QUETTA, Pakistan — Gunmen kidnapped an American U.N. official and killed his driver in southwestern Pakistan on Monday, underscoring the security threat in a country wracked by Al Qaeda violence and rising criminality."
The Associated Press: GOP leaders doubt stimulus bill will pass Senate
The Associated Press: GOP leaders doubt stimulus bill will pass Senate: "'We cannot delay this,' said Sen. Dick Durbin of Illinois, the Senate Democrats' No. 2 leader. 'We can't engage in the old political rhetoric of saying, 'Well, maybe it could be a little bit better here and a little bit better there.' We've got to pull together.'"
Yet only 10% of the money that they vote on will be spent in the next 12 months. Why are they in such a hurry to pass this legislation through? It is a massive piece of legislation that can not have been read from cover to cover yet and understood by those who are going to vote on it.
DO IT RIGHT, We WILL BE PAYING FOR THIS FOR 60 YEARS!
Yet only 10% of the money that they vote on will be spent in the next 12 months. Why are they in such a hurry to pass this legislation through? It is a massive piece of legislation that can not have been read from cover to cover yet and understood by those who are going to vote on it.
DO IT RIGHT, We WILL BE PAYING FOR THIS FOR 60 YEARS!
Hot Air » Blog Archive » A 10% cut at the Pentagon?
Hot Air » Blog Archive » A 10% cut at the Pentagon?: "While the Obama administration tries pushing through its trillion-dollar porkfest of Mall resodding and Medicare expansion, the Pentagon has gotten a much different mission from the White House. President Obama has demanded a 10% reduction in the defense budget for FY2010, even while we fight a war in Afghanistan and conduct counterterrorist operations around the world:"
New Bill Proposed To Federalize College & University Campus Security - ROGUEGOVERNMENT.COM
New Bill Proposed To Federalize College & University Campus Security - ROGUEGOVERNMENT.COM: "A new bill proposed in the U.S. House of Representatives seeks to take federal control over the security of College and University campuses across the nation. House Resolution 748 or the CAMPUS Safety Act of 2009’ would provide grants to institutions of higher education and other nonprofit organizations to assist in carrying out a myriad of functions pertaining to standardizing campus security across the country. This is yet another attempt by the federal government to centralize even more control over any sort of local or community agency pertaining to campus public safety and law enforcement."
ROGERS REPORT: Congress Seeks To Authorize & Legalize FEMA Camp Facilities - ROGUEGOVERNMENT.COM
ROGERS REPORT: Congress Seeks To Authorize & Legalize FEMA Camp Facilities - ROGUEGOVERNMENT.COM: "A new bill has been introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives called the National Emergency Centers Act or HR 645. This bill if passed into law will direct the Secretary of Homeland Security to establish national emergency centers otherwise known as FEMA camp facilities on military installations. This is an incredibly disturbing piece of legislation considering that the powers that be have already set in motion an agenda to setup a nationwide marital law apparatus through U.S. Northern Command and the Department of Homeland Security."
Family Security Matters » Publications » Brilliant: House Guantanamo Detainees on Alcatraz
Family Security Matters » Publications » Brilliant: House Guantanamo Detainees on Alcatraz: "On Sunday, House Minority Leader Rep. John Boehner (R-Ohio) suggested on Meet the Press that since President Obama has ordered the closure of the military detention facility at Guantanamo Naval Base, he should transfer the terrorists held there to the former prison on Alcatraz Island."
A BRILLIANT idea.
Please pass this along to all you know.
A BRILLIANT idea.
Please pass this along to all you know.
Sunday, February 1, 2009
Homeland Security News » Bio-terrorism - Al-Qaida and the Plague
Homeland Security News » Bio-terrorism - Al-Qaida and the Plague: "AQIM was “hired” by AQ central mostly because of their extensive network in Europe that could allow them to strike Europe at some point. AQIM’s leadership has been under intense pressure to attack European targets in order to maintain its credibility. In fact, by not using a “conventional” weapon, AQIM would prove its value to AQ Central. If the group was indeed developing a biological weapon, it was surely destined for delivery in Europe, and most likely in France."
Clinton started 2009 with $6 million in debt - CNN.com
Clinton started 2009 with $6 million in debt - CNN.com: "Secretary of State Hillary Clinton rang in the new year still saddled with $5.9 million in debts left over from her unsuccessful 2008 presidential campaign, according to records filed Saturday with the Federal Election Commission."
Doesn't being so far in debt preclude her from being in a position where she could be bought by a foreign power who's interests are not in the best interest of the USA?
She couldn't pass a civil service background check.
Doesn't being so far in debt preclude her from being in a position where she could be bought by a foreign power who's interests are not in the best interest of the USA?
She couldn't pass a civil service background check.
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