George Wenschhof
Last night, President Obama sat down for a beer with Professor Gates and Sgt. Cowley - they were joined by Vice President Joe Biden. No explanation as to why Biden joined the gathering, but he did even out the color of the participants. Interestingly, Biden does not drink, he had one of those "near" beers. You can read more here.
The conversation went well and Crowley and Gates have agreed to meet privately again in the future. This is good for the subject of race relations should be an ongoing discussion among all Americans. By happenstance, the two with their families bumped into each other as they were waiting for Happy Hour and were given a tour of the White House.
I watched a press conference given by Sgt. Crowley following the Happy hour gathering and he was very good. Better, in fact, than most politicians.
Today, at lunch, the president will dine with business leaders at the White House. This is a continuation of his effort to reach out to the business community. You can read more here.
Tonight, as I reported early this week, the President joined by the Vice President will address his full Cabinet. This is the start of a two day retreat of all the cabinet secretaries to be held at the Blair House. After running a full court press for the first six months of his presidency, it seems a time out has been called. Let's see what the next play is to be called. You can read more here.
--------------------
This morning, the Vice President will address the National Urban League - the conference is being held in Chicago and the theme is "Planning for the Future". You can read more here.
When I was Employment and Training Director for the National Association of Counties (NACO), all of the Public Interest Groups (PIGs, as they were called) held annual conferences for their members. Landing the vice president as a speaker is always good. Public Interest Groups are often overlooked, but they have tremendous influence in Washington.
--------------------
House Energy and Commerce Committee struggle to reach agreement on health care bill - a small victory for the Obama administration prior to the August recess. Seems Blue Dog Democrats have received generous financial contributions from the insurance industry. This sausage making bill could wind up smelling and tasting bad. Stay tuned. Politico.com has more on the struggles in the House here.
Senior White House Adviser David Axelrod is also holding a strategy meeting for House Democrats today - it is members only and no press. Presumably, messaging will be discussed on how to promote health care reform during the Congressional recess. You can read more here.
--------------------
Commerce Department reports economy shrank at a better than expected rate - in good news for the Obama administration the gross domestic product (GDP) only reduced by 1% last quarter after falling 6.4% in the first quarter of this year. Time.com has more here.
--------------------
To receive "Daily Email Updates" from Air-it-Out with George Wenschhof, click on "Subscribe to this feed" below.
Friday, July 31, 2009
Daily Democratic Wire 7-31-2009
Thursday, July 30, 2009
Wenschhof Interviews City of Frederick, Md. Alderman Candidate Kelly Russell
George Wenschhof
Today, my guest is Kelly Russell who is one of nine Democrats running for one of five seats on the Board of Aldermen in the City of Frederick, Maryland. The primary will be held on September 15 and registered Democratic voters will determine their Mayor and five Aldermen candidates for the November 3 general election. Also, please remember the deadline to register to vote prior to the primary is August 17.
Ms. Russell and I are communicating via computer from different locations within the city and I have not shared with her the questions I will be asking today. As this is a live conversation, please remember to click on your "Refresh" button every ten minutes or so, to see the latest question and answer.
The link to this discussion will be placed in the right margin of our home page so it may be easily read at any time convenient for our viewers of the website.
Some of our viewers may already know Ms. Russell from her days on the City of Frederick police force, from a social gathering, or from her recent days as head of her local Neighborhood Advisory Committee (NAC). She also has the distinction of being the first Democrat to file for alderman in the City of Frederick election.
At this time I would like to welcome Kelly and thank her for appearing live online with me on Air-it-out with George Wenschhof.
GW - Voters always like to know a little about the person they are voting for so why don't you start off by telling them a little about yourself, how long you have worked and lived in Frederick and what are some of the favorite things you like to do.
Prior to this recent flap, you were involved in a controversial issue surrounding your attempt to designate your neighborhood as part of this downtown historic district. The three Democratic aldermen passed the motion which was followed by a veto by the mayor. It was reported a majority of the homeowners in your neighborhood did not want the historic district designation.
Since the beginnings of the Historic District in downtown Frederick, there have been various complaints over the years. However, the ambiance of downtown has been maintained and property values have also benefited as a result.
First, tell us about why you wanted to designate your neighborhood as part of the historic district and second, as an alderman would you support a review of the guidelines used by the HPC?
KR - Ever since I moved here it was my dream to live in the College Park neighborhood. I have been extremely fortunate that the "stars aligned" for me, and I was able to buy this house. I came from Montgomery County, and remember when Rockville had an old historic downtown, where my mom would take me to buy my P.F. Flyers. It has been destroyed. I lived in the Bethesda Chevy Chase area, and have seen those old neighborhoods ruined by teardowns and replacement by "McMansions".
When I moved to College Avenue, the city had just completed a comprehensive rezoning that changed many old single family neighborhoods to allow for townhouse and condo developments. These neighborhoods included Monocacy Village, Villa Estates (Wilson, Lee, Grant and that area), as well as mine. Our neighborhood formed a group called "Preserve our Neighborhoods", and we conducted a petition drive to revisit the zoning. We held a community meeting in Schley Park that was attended by a hundred people, including the Mayor, and Alderman, and the Planning Director. After all of our efforts, the city did go back and review, and rezoned 7 or 8 neighborhoods, preserving their integrity.
In an effort to more permanently preserve the beautiful homes in College Park, we used the Land Management Code process for designation of an Historic District Overly. It was a controversial process, to say the least, but was the process in place. It had no provision for homeowner voices to be heard in a formal way, as many of these process across the country are set up, but it clearly was not an effective process for all of those involved; for or opposed. Since then, there has bee a comprehensive rewrite of the process which is currently being vetted by HPC, Planning Commission, and will eventually go before the Mayor and Board for approval.
Historic preservation is a cultural and heritage issue in my view, and should not be political. I think it is unfortunate that it has become a political issue as a result of one specific case. All decisions made by commissions have an avenue for appeal through due process. Additionally, historic preservation is governed by Federal, State, and local law. We don't have to have an historic district, but if we choose to, we are bound by laws. I support historic preservation efforts, and support a process that is respectful of all the stakeholders.
----
GW - Speaking of signs, I like your campaign sign which has a distinctive oval inside a rectangle shaped sign. Candidate campaign signs are a good way to get your name noticed by the voters. Having one that stands out from the other candidates is always helpful.
How did you come up with the design and how many have you placed in the city since you began putting them up in yards about two weeks ago? I noticed them first in your neighborhood and now am seeing them across the city.
KR - I'm glad you like my signs, George! I've actually gotten a lot of comments on them. I wanted something that was out of the ordinary, and could become a kind of signature logo. I worked on a lot of designs over the last year or so, but when it finally came down to it, I found that simplicity was the key. I had round lapel stickers printed and it dawned on me that I could use that, and make the sign slightly asymmetric.
As of three hours ago, I have over 100 signs in Westbrook, Amber Meadows, Monarch Ridge, Fredericktowne Village, College Park, Villa Estates, downtown, Old Farm, Whittier, Wyngate, Carrollton, Homewood.... The list goes on! Having 22 years to drive around in a police car and walk the beat has helped me get known around town. I still get called Lieutenant, or even Kelly the Cop quite often.
----
GW - The early retirement buy-out plan which was passed under the current city administration has received plenty of attention and deservedly so.
Voters can not understand why aldermen would approve payment of two years salary to an employee and then allow the employee to be hired back by the city. Mayor Holtzinger's executive assistant Ron Tobin who is now running for the Republican nomination for mayor is one who was paid two years of salary and then hired back.
As an alderman, how would you have handled this proposal when presented to you?
KR - George, the voters include me, too! It is still beyond me.
As an Alderman I would have done what I did do as a citizen. I objected to it verbally to several Alderman, I sent emails, and I attended public meetings. I wrote an extensive list with 33 very pointed and specific questions and gave them to three of the Alderman to ask for the record (which they did not do). When the measure passed, I approached an Alderman to make a motion to rescind. He did, but the Mayor vetoed. I have spoke on the public record against it.
As a former Human Resources manager, I was amazed that this occurred with barely a question, and a blind faith that is was a good financial move, without so much as a spreadsheet. I would have asked my questions and required good, thorough, and comprehensive answers. I would have asked more if I needed to.
As for the employees who took the buyout, I place NO responsibility on them. They were made an offer they couldn't refuse. As for Mr. Tobin - as the Mayor's Executive Assistant, it is his responsibility to advise and protect the Mayor from making poor decisions. Instead, he took advantage of the situation.
----
GW - The national economy continues to be weak and all indications point to a slow and gradual improvement. While how taxpayer's money is spent is always important, it will be even more so over the next four years of the incoming administration.
The city charter requires the mayor to submit a balanced budget for board of aldermen approval. I noticed on your campaign website; www.votekellyrussell.com , you have some thoughts on how to improve on this process. Share with the voters your thoughts on the city budget process.
KR - Thanks for reading my posts on the website, George. I'm going to use some of that material here.
"Each department’s budget is largely made up of salaries, benefit, and insurance costs. Because these large sums are included, and are usually increasing, it appears quite often that department budgets are growing because the operating costs are not being managed frugally. However, if you look at operating costs for most of the departments, the increases are usually quite small, and sometimes are even held or decreased. This is the money that the city has direct control over to fund the way the city does business and provides services to you on a day-to-day basis.
I believe that the personnel related costs should be removed from individual department budgets and separated into a different budget. This change would cause a bright light to shine on exactly how much (or how little) departments are working with to serve the public. When the administration tells us that a department’s budget has increased by large amounts, it is usually because of these required personnel costs, not the money that goes directly to fund each department’s activities. This is misleading and needs to be changed."
Additionally, our budget each year is balanced largely by percentage cuts made by departments. I'd like to see a change in that process to the end that the essential services and top priorities are identified and funded properly first. This list of priorities would be developed jointly by the Mayor and Board, using department and citizen input. Only after that are the rest of the items funded.
----
GW - I also noticed on your campaign website discussion of the city's shared use pathways and the potential to receive funding from the recently passed federal Stimulus bill.
You indicate 8 of the proposed 25.7 miles of the shared pathways have been constructed for pedestrian and bicycle use. This sounds like a good idea for as the community continues to grow, areas for pedestrian walkways and bicycle use become more limited.
Do you know if the city applied for funding to help construct these pathways and if not, why?
KR - I have had conversations with Tim Davis, the city's Transportation Planner, and others about it. I do not know the details of the funding situation right now, but it is very much an active project. If there is one thing I do know, the city has been, and continues to be, aggressive in finding funding sources through a number of creative means like grants. Planning has also worked with the police department on the design criteria that will aid in making these paths safe. Shared use path are a critical piece of the puzzle in connecting our citizens who walk and cycle with other parts of the city that are not easily or safely accessible. Also, it is in our future as a way of life. Fuel costs, green initiatives, and financial factors will all lead us toward developing more walkable and sustainable communities.
----
GW - When I was introducing you earlier, I mentioned you were the chair of your Neighborhood Advisory Council (NAC). They were first created under the Dougherty administration to help facilitate input from residents across the city.
Kelly, we are now to your last question today. Have you noticed a difference in how they functioned and interacted with city hall during the term Jennifer Dougherty was mayor and this current term of Mayor Jeff Holtzinger?
Do you have any thoughts on how the interaction could be improved? You also did not indicate earlier if you had a favorite of the three Democratic mayoral candidates.
KR - I have been an appointed coordinator for about four years, so my tenure has really been under this administration. I have seen somewhat of a decline in participation over my time, and some NACs have languished completely. In contrast to that, however, there is a really dedicated core group of folks that are committed to the NAC. They have continued to flourish, and have worked on some good initiatives. I have said before that I am committed to revitalizing and growing the NACs, and would like to see an Alderman assigned to liaison with them. The community partnerships that have, and will evolve from these groups can only work in favour of the citizens. Information flow that is up and down, as well as sideways, is critical, and the NACs are a great conduit for that!
As for Mayor, at this point in the campaign, I am focused on my tasks and getting to City Hall. Sorry to give you the standard politician answer! That being said, I will work hard with whomever comprises the new Mayor and Board of Alderman, if I am fortunate enough to get the chance.
Thanks again for this venue! I look forward to even more online interactions, and hope to bring that mindset with me to City Hall.
----
GW - Thank you again Kelly for being my guest today on Air-it-Out with George Wenschhof. Best wishes on the campaign trail. At this time, I would like to give you some time for some closing remarks.
KR - Thank you, George. This has been a great opportunity to chat a little more casually than the standard 100 words or less survey questions. I appreciate that, because I enjoy conversations. I believe that is the key to good government. I have been really fortunate in my life to have had the chance to serve the public, and would like the chance to continue giving back to my community. I look forward to doing that as an Alderman. Folks can read more about me on my website at www.votekellyrussell.com. Make sure you are registered to vote, that you know where your polling place is, and then vote for your candidate(s) of choice! Thanks.
--------------------
To receive "Daily Email Updates" from Air-it-Out with George Wenschhof, click on "Subscribe to this feed" below.
Daily Democratic Wire 7-30-2009
George Wenschhof
This afternoon, President Barack Obama will welcome Philippine President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo to the White House - they will discuss security issues and the dealing with Islamic terrorists. Climate change is also a topic for discussion. You can read more here.
Early evening, it's happy hour time with Sgt. Crowley and Professor Gates - turns out the President is a Bud man - same as me.
--------------------
Unemployment Claims up - the latest Labor Department figures showed an increase of 25,000 initial claims for a total of 584,000. Auto plant shut downs and the sluggish economy continue to impact American workers. Bloomberg.com has more here.
--------------------
Health care vote planned for September - seems the only agreement Congressional leaders could reach is to delay the vote until after the August recess. Blue Dog Democrats in the House continue to stymie reform efforts and in the Senate, the public option for health care is rapidly fading. MSNBC.com has more here.
The fear many have is a watered down negotiated agreement will have little effect on improving health care for Americans and the resulting bill will be wasted money.
--------------------
Ethan Axelrod hired by Huffington Post - he happens to be the son of David Axelrod who is a senior White House adviser. His father was also a reporter so it runs in the family. Politico.com has more here.
--------------------
To receive "Daily Email Updates" from Air-it-Out with George Wenschhof, click on "Subscribe to this feed" below.
Democratic Alderman Candidate Kelly Russell to be Guest Today
George Wenschhof
Kelly Russell will join me today from 2:00 - 4:00 PM ET. The link to our conversation will be placed in the right hand margin so you will be able to read at a time convenient to you.
She is the third of the nine Democratic candidates to appear on Air-it-Out with George Wenschhof. Last week I interviewed incumbent Donna Kuzemchak and you can read her conversation with me here. Earlier, this week Michael O'Connor was my guest and you can read his interview here.
I plan to have all nine appear by August 20, prior to the City of Frederick primary on September 15. The only Democratic candidate for aldermen to have not confirmed their appearance is incumbent David Koontz.
My previous interviews with the Democratic mayoral candidates are also linked in the right hand margin of the home page.
Josh Bokee will be my guest next week on Tuesday August 4 from 7:00 - 9:00 PM ET.
--------------------
To receive "Daily Email Updates" from Air-it-Out with George Wenschhof, click on "Subscribe to this feed" below.
Wednesday, July 29, 2009
Daily Democratic Wire 7-29-2009
George Wenschhof
Today, President Barack Obama will attend two town hall meetings on health care reform - in the morning, the president will be in Raleigh, North Carolina at Broughton High School. This afternoon, he will be at a Kroger supermarket in Bristol, Virginia. he will speak on how reform is necessary and how he intends to close the many gaps in coverage that exist today in health care insurance. Politico.com has more here.
--------------------
Obama Cabinet Retreat this weekend - it would be nice to be the fly on the wall at this get together. All 22 members of the cabinet are expected to attend the two day event beginning Friday to be held at the Blair House located across from the White House. The Washington Post has more here.
--------------------
Time for Reasonable Conservatives to end the "Birther Movement" - a few nut cases in Congress continue to question where President Barack Obama was born in spite of the release of his Hawaii birth certificate. Bill Pascoe, CEO of The Foundation of American Freedom says it's time for conservatives to deal with their own whack jobs. Here is an excerpt from his column published in CQPolitics; ............
"And I believe the time has come for reasonable and responsible conservatives to deal with the "Birther" Problem.
In January 1962, conservative leaders faced a similar problem: How to deal with the members of the John Birch Society, whose leader, Robert Welch, believed that the former president of the United States, Dwight D. Eisenhower
, was a a conscious agent of the International Communist Conspiracy.
National Review Founder William F. Buckley, Jr., Arizona Sen. Barry Goldwater, conservative historian and philosopher Russell Kirk, and American Enterprise Institute President William Baroody took it upon themselves secretly to meet at The Breakers hotel in Palm Beach, where they decided Welch and the Birchers would have to be excommunicated from the Conservative Movement, lest their lunacy taint reasonable and responsible conservative political activity.
Were Buckley alive today, is there any doubt he would have the same response to the "Birthers"?
I think not."
You can read the entire column here.
--------------------
More Stupidity for the GOP to deal with - seems a member of a group "Tea Party" anti-reform gathering in Salisbury, Maryland and attended by some members but not sponsored by the business group; Americans for Prosperity, decided to hang in effigy, freshman Democratic Representative Frank Krotovil. Politico.com has more here.
--------------------
Sotomayor receives 13-6 vote of approval from Senate Judiciary Committee - as I reported yesterday, this was the expected vote with only Republican Lindsay Graham (SC) voting in favor. She is expected to receive confirmation by the full Senate within the next couple of days to become the first woman Hispanic supreme court justice. Sotomayor will be able to join the Supreme Court for a special session in September. Reuters.com has more here.
--------------------
To receive "Daily Email Updates" from Air-it-Out with George Wenschhof, click on "Subscribe to this feed" below.
It's Obama's Economy Now
George Wenschhof
Barack Obama moved with lightening fast speed to propose and have Congress pass the nearly 800 Billion Stimulus bill. The actual name of the bill is the American Reinvestment and Recovery Act. This followed closely after the passage of the 700 Billion Bailout bill approved at the end of the George W. Bush administration. That bill was entitled the Troubled Assets and Relief Plan (TARP).
Both were needed, according to bipartisan economic experts, or a financial meltdown of a magnitude never seen would follow. I will never forget the ash-white faces of the Senators standing behind then Secretary Henry Paulson when they announced the financial sector bailout bill following a private meeting. It was obvious they had been given the doomsday scenario if something was not done immediately.
Congress took the bait and approved the bailout bill in record time even though the details submitted by Treasury Secretary Paulson was less than three pages justifying the 700 Billion requested.
Many of the foremost economists knew the bailout bill would not be enough and Barack Obama, as the newly elected President listened. Ben Bernanke, the Federal Reserve guru and by happenstance, a scholar of the "American Great Depression", was one of many who urged action to put money into the economy. Thus, the creation of the 800 Billion Stimulus bill.
As President Obama would give his speeches on any subject including touting the importance of the Stimulus bill, he often would include the fact he had inherited this economic mess from the former Republican George W. Bush administration.
This statement, was of course, absolutely accurate. When George W. Bush took office, the U.S. national debt was 6.38 Trillion and the U.S. deficit was 159 Billion.
What followed was tax cuts for the rich, further deregulation of the financial markets, and an ill advised and unnecessary war with Iraq.
In eight short years, the Republican George W. Bush administration had increased the U.S. national debt to 10.6 Trillion and the U.S. budget deficit to 455 Billion (not including the 700 billion bailout bill).
Now, as health care reform is being debated in Congress, the Republicans and Blue Dog Democrats are questioning the Congressional Budget office estimated cost of one Trillion over the next ten years for health care reform.
The cost of the war in Iraq has been estimated to have been 3 Trillion over the past seven years.
The question I would ask those members in Congress questioning the need for health care reform to help the 47 million uninsured Americans is; "does the cost of a ill advised and unnecessary war in Iraq outweigh providing adequate health care for all Americans?".
Is it Obama's economy now? The answer is yes it is and it is economy we as Americans must now deal with as we move forward.
It is hypocritical for Republicans to now question the proposed spending by the Obama administration. A Stimulus plan and health care for Americans versus eight years of unregulated corporate greed and a misguided foreign policy that put the U.S. on a precipice should be an easy choice for members of Congress.
It's time to pass health care reform now.
--------------------
To receive "Daily Email Updates" from Air-it-Out with George Wenschhof, click on "Subscribe to this feed' below.
Tuesday, July 28, 2009
Daily Democratic Wire 7-28-2009
George Wenschhof
Today, President Barack Obama will attend a telephone town hall meeting in D.C. hosted by the AARP - It begins at 1:30 PM ET and will be moderated by the host of AARP "Prime Time Radio" Mike Cuthbert. The organization which represents 50 and older Americans will have a phone in period from their members to ask questions about health care reform. The AARP has more here.
--------------------
Sotomayor vote today at 10:00 AM ET - the Senate Judiciary Committee is expected to vote to approve and move her confirmation to a full Senate vote. It appears the only Republican on the committee who will vote for Sonia Sotomayor is Lindsay Graham (S.C.) which would make the vote 13-6 in favor of the supreme court justice nominee.
--------------------
Obama, Gates and Crowley set for Happy Hour Thursday at 6:00 PM ET - heck of a way to get invited to the White House. The highly publicized incident in Cambridge, Mass. has caused many to look at racial profiling that still exists today. President Obama invited Sgt. James Crowley and Professor Gates to join him for a beer at the White House. Politico.com has more here. I hear Professor Gates does not drink beer, but one would believe the White House Bar is fully stocked.
--------------------
Vice President Joe Biden to discuss 1 Billion Stimulus fund aid to police today in Philadelphia - he will be joined by Attorney General Eric Holder. The money will be awarded to police departments across the country to help avoid lay-offs. You can read more here.
--------------------
U.S. - China talks continue today - President Obama addressed the meeting yesterday acknowledging U.S and China relations will shape the future of the world. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and Treasury Secretary Timothy Geithner are set to resume talks with their Chinese counterparts today. It seems everything is on the table from the economy to the environment. Remember, China holds 800 Billion of U.S. debt. MSNBC.com has more here.
--------------------
To receive "Daily Email Updates" from Air-it-Out with George Wenschhof, click on "Subscribe to this feed" below.
Monday, July 27, 2009
Wenschhof Interviews City of Frederick, Md. Alderman Candidate Michael O'Connor
George Wenschhof
Today, my guest is Michael O'Connor who is vying for one of the five seats on the Board of Aldermen in The City of Frederick, Maryland. The primary election will be held on September 15. Democratic voters will be choosing five from nine candidates on the ballot to move on to the November 3 general election.
Mr. O'Connor and I are communicating live via computer from different locations in the city and I have not previously shared the questions I will be asking him today.
We will place the link to this conversation in the right hand margin so it can be accessed and read at a convenient time for our readers who may have missed the live discussion.
Michael, it's nice to have you as my guest today. This will be a little bit of a role reversal for you as you previously were the moderator of a local cable TV political discussion show "Pressing Issues". Prior to that, you also were the news anchor for a local cable TV news program that was discontinued years ago. I also remember when you ran for state delegate in district 3-a and lost in the primary back in 2002.
GW - Your background would indicate you have a solid knowledge of the issues facing the voters in the City of Frederick. Let's get started with you telling the voters a little about your family, the work you are doing now and why you are running for alderman.
As a follow up, why do you feel voters should choose you to be one of their five choices on the ballot on September 15?
MOC - Thank you George for this opportunity. I think this is a great way to use technology to get out information and I appreciate your committment to the electoral process.
I am a life-long Frederick County resident, growing up on Schley Avenue, just a few blocks from where I live now on Lee Place, with my wife of 16 years, Tammy, and our two daughters (and two dogs). It has been wonderful to be able to raise my children in the same community I was raised in. And I want this to be a great community for them and their children, as well, if they choose to make Frederick their home.
I currently work as the Business Manager at Saint Katharine Drexel church, on Opossumtown Pike, in Frederick, which involves managing all aspects of a non-profit organization from budget and finance, to human resources. But as you indicated, much of my professional experience has been in media, and it is my church and media experience that I want to put to work for the citizens of the City of Frederick. I have always looked at the work I did in Radio and Television locally, and now with my church, as public service, so I consider running for Alderman, a natural extension.
We are facing challenging times ahead, but I think that also means we have great opportunities. I think the voters should consider me to be one their five choices on September 15th because I have held a unique front row seat on City and County operations over the last nearly 20 years. I have had the great priviledge to watch government in way most people have never seen. That experience has taught me ask the right questions and challenge assumptions. And I will continue to do so once elected.
I am looking forward to having the tables turned, so to speak, so let's get started.
---
GW - One of the more controversial decisions made by mayor Jeff Holtzinger and the board of aldermen during this past term was the approval of the early buy-out retirement plan. Some city staff, including the Mayor's executive assistant Ron Tobin, took the two year buy-out only to be hired back by the city. These hire backs along with a generous two-year buy out has angered many city voters.
Voters wonder why aldermen did not question this dubious retirement plan. One of the challenges facing aldermen in office is being able to reach consensus and move forward on issues while at the same time being watchful as to what is in the best interests of the residents of the city without coming across as an obstructionist.
How will you convince voters, that if elected, you will not just be a rubber stamp on the issues that come before you?
MOC - Let me address the question both specifically and more broadly. The buyout is exactly the kind of issue my experience would have let me address more effectively, I think. The problem was not that the buyout was proposed, though two years was extraordinarily generous, and I would not have supported it. It was that no one ever asked the simple question, "what if an overwhelming majority of elegible employees take it?" The Mayor & Board worked on faulty assumptions that no one challenged. And we'll be paying for that mistake for years.
The job of the Alderman is to work on behalf of the citizens, not the Mayor, and not the rest of the Board. My track record on the Board's on which I've served, such as 10 years on the Frederick County Workforce Development Board, and 10 years ago, as the Co-Chair of Aspire Frederick, is to ask questions with the goal towards building consensus. I think if you have a Mayor and Board, truly committed to working on behalf of the City, who don't view information as proprietary, and who are more concerned with getting things done than getting credit, we'll have progress. I won't be either a rubber stamp or an obstructionist. Neither is my style.
----
GW - Another controversial decision on the horizon for the current mayor and board is the annexation of three properties known as the Crum, Thatcher and Summers farms.
It appears obvious Mayor Holtzinger is pushing these annexations forward for approval prior to the next mayor and board taking office.
Do you feel these annexations are premature at this point and do you feel this decision should be left for the next mayor and board to decide? In addition, rumors abound a petition drive will take place if approval is granted to force this decision to a referendum. Would you support a petition drive, if started?
MOC - We, the candidates, had the opportunity to share our thoughts on this with the Frederick News-Post, and this is what I told them: While annexation is the only way for the City to guarantee it controls what happens at its borders, I believe the higher priority today should be infill and redevelopment, particularly the Route 40 West corridor and east Frederick. I do not believe that the City can adequately fund needed infrastructure improvements, even with developer participation, that must accompany the pending annexations. The next administration should be given the opportunity to work with our citizens, Frederick County, and the applicants and not have this very important issue rushed before an election.
So yes, premature is a good word. I understand the annexation of these properties is in the City's Comprehensive Plan. I understand that development of these properties was discussed as part of of the Potomac River pipeline agreement, but our residents have more questions. Either way these annexations have become political, so it would be my preference to wait. If the current administration chooses not to, I would support the petition drive.
I think eventually these properties will be part of the City of Frederick, but I don't think that time is now, in light of the infrastructure challenges, and the general lack of support from the residents I have talked to. We have great infill and redevelopment opportunities, our priority should be there.
----
GW - With the national economy suffering, it is highly likely management of the financial resources of the city will be a priority for the next mayor and board of aldermen.
The current city administration will be leaving 120 million in bonded infrastructure debt to the incoming mayor and board. Balancing the budget with reduced revenues from property taxes due to lower assessments will not be easy.
If elected, are there specific budget areas you would suggest to the next mayor and board which would help to reduce current spending?
MOC - I have had the great pleasure to visit nearly all of the city's Neighborhood Advisory Councils over the last several months, and from those meetings and in other conversations with residents, I can tell you two areas that I would not consider for spending reductions, police, and code enforcement. Everything else needs to be on the table. And the reality is that in government, when you start talking about reduced spending, you are talking about people's jobs. That is a issue I will not take lightly.
One specific area I think we can look at is trash collection. Since the large blue bin recycling program began I have found I put my trash out about once every two weeks, just like the recyclables. But the garbage trucks still come twice a week. I think we can reduce trash collection. Additionally, offering recycling to businesses might generate savings by reducing the city's tipping fees. Such proposals may not reduce the budget by millions, but they do represent an effort to better align the available resources with the services the city requires. I think that's what our taxpayes expect.
Putting our economic development focus on small business and infill and redevelopment possibilities will also allow us to look at expanding our business tax base, without the infrastructure cost associated with residential expansion.
----
GW - I read with interest on your campaign website; www.mocforalderman.com , you acknowledge while the financial timing may have been bad, the condemnation of the property known as the "Hargett farm" for use of a city park was preferable over the construction of more homes in that area of the city.
While the acquisition cost has been budgeted, the funds needed for build out and the development time frame for the park has not been determined.
You indicate as the future park is a regional park in the sense county residents are sure to use it as well, the county government should partner with the city and share in the development costs. Tell the voters a little more about this proposal.
MOC - Thanks for plugging the website, George. There is additional information there about many of the policy issues we are talking about, in addition to information about how citizens can get involved.
The Hargett property represents an interesting challenge. The city has purchased it to the great relief of residents throughout the west end who don't need more cars on already overtaxed roadways of Butterfly Lane, McCain Drive, and Hillcrest Drive, not to mention the interchange aat 180 and 351. But as you indicated, there is no funding for development. The residential development of this property was also in the discussion regarding Potomac River water. Could it's removal from that pipeline, so to speak, be what's pushing Crum, Thatcher, & Summers now?
Mayor Holtzinger campaigned on getting a park in the west end. Mission accomplished to the extent that we have the land. But now what? I want to reach out to the County, which will benefit from a park in that area, and talk about how development moves forward. Perhaps that is something that should have been done prior to the acquisition. I have been struck in this instance, as well as with the annexation process, and recently in conversations about improvements to Route 15/I-270, how little it appears the City and County talk about our common interests. I have no idea where the fault lies, and frankly I don't care, but I'd like to work at improving cooperation.
----
GW - You also note on your campaign website your desire to increase economic development in all areas of the city.
Typically, commercial development is a plus-plus for municipal governments as it is less strain on the infrastructure than residential development and it creates local jobs.
Share with the voters some of your thoughts in this area.
MOC - There is no question that the vitality and health of Frederick as a whole is dependent on the success of business in our Downtown, but while our focus has been on the downtown, some of our outlying areas have rightfully felt neglected. The Golden Mile tax credits passed during the Dougherty Administration were a great start, but I think we need to look at whether or not there is more we can do to accelerate redevelopment of this corridor. There has been some discussion of Small Area Plans as part of the Comprehensive Plan rewrite. This area is prime candidate for such a plan.
Additionally, the East Street Extension, and now the groundbreaking for the middle section of Monocacy Boulevard, are opening up hundreds of acres of property for development. I attended one of the East Frederick Rising visioning meetings, and we have many talented and creative minds ready and willing to make exciting things happen. The city needs to rely on these resources and others like them.
I think an important component of helping business, especially small ones, get going is the need to have an ongoing reviews and rewrites of our Land Management Code and Historical Preservation Commission guidelines. These documents must be living, breathing tools for the city that can be modified as conditions warrant. We have tremendous opportunities with the Route 40 corridor and east Frederick to build interesting, sustainable, mixed use communities that will enhance the quality of life for all Frederick residents.
----
GW - Your last question pertains to the Democratic mayoral candidates. I have written most aldermen candidates will not publicly state their support for a mayoral candidate in a contested primary. Last week, when Alderman Donna Kuzemchak was my guest, she indicated her support for former mayor Jennifer Dougherty while also saying she would be able to work with whoever was elected.
Do you have a favorite candidate for mayor and if so, why?
MOC - I have not been approached by any of the candidates for Mayor for an endorsement. Neither have I sought to align with any of them for one very practical reason, I am concentrating on my campaign and I know they are concentrating on their campaigns. Like Donna, I believe that once elected I can work with any of the candidates. We have a very strong field in the Democratic Primary. I know that my experience and approach to the issues facing the city would be asset and it would be my honor to serve on the Board of Alderman with whomever is elected. If that sounds like weasel-wording, the only defense I can argue is, it's the truth.
----
GW - Michael, I want to thank you for being my guest today on Air-it-Out with George Wenschhof.
At this time, I would like to give you some time for some closing remarks.
MOC - Once again George, I want to thank you. This has been a lot of fun, and I appreciate what you are doing for the voters in offering this opportunity to the candidates.
You can visit my website, www.mocforalderman.com to get more information about my campaign, or to request a yard sign, or to contribute, including an upcoming fundraising Friday, July 31st, at Kidwiler (Rosedale) Park, on Schley Avenue, from 5 to 8 pm. It's a Family Picnic, $25 per adult, so bring the kids for free.
It has been my priviledge over the past nearly 20 years to interact with so many elected officials who really understood, what public service is all about. That's why I am running. In my current professional life, we use the word stewardship. It's not my city, it's our city, and the Mayor and Board of Aldermen have the responsibility to be good stewards of all our resources, from the taxes we collect to the land and buildings we own and operate.
The issues in the campaign are numerous. And I want to hear from you. I make no promises except that when you talk to me, I will listen. And when you elect me Alderman for the City of Frederick, I will work with you and for you to make Frederick the best is can be. Thank you, and I ask for your vote on September 15th.
--------------------
To receive "Daily Email Updates" from Air-it-Out with George Wenschhof, click on "Subscribe to this feed" below.
Daily Democratic Wire 7-27-2009
George Wenschhof
President Barack Obama to travel to Mexico - On August 9-10, he will attend the North American Leaders conference in Guadalajara, Mexico. Obama will meet with Mexican President Felipe Calderon and Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper. They will discuss the economy, energy, environment and the H1N1 Flu. The Page.time .com has more here.
--------------------
House Speaker Nancy Pelosi works to pass health care bill this week - not accepting defeat and determined to garner votes for passage this week. She has scheduled a full Democratic caucus this afternoon to go over line by line the health care reform bill. i would not count out the passage by the House this week. If passed, this would regain the momentum President Obama had hoped for prior to the August recess. The Washington Post has more here.
--------------------
Who is John Parnell? - the new Governor of Alaska as a result of the resignation of Sarah Palin that went into effect yesterday. The NY Times has more here.
At first, I was disappointed at hearing Palin would step down as I feared she would no longer provide material for the hilarious and sad but true skits performed by Tina Fey. Then I realized Palin will continue to reach out for the spotlight ensuring many more buffoon like statements.
--------------------
Senate Judiciary Committee to vote on Sotomayor tomorrow - expect Sonia Sotomayor to win support of the committee and to receive a majority of the Senate votes needed later in the week for confirmation as the next Supreme Court Justice.
--------------------
To receive "Daily Email Updates" from Air-it-Out with George Wenschhof, click on "Subscribe to this feed" below.
Democratic Alderman Candidate Michael O'Connor to be Guest Today
George Wenschhof
Last Thursday, City of Frederick, Maryland alderman Donna Kuzemchak was the first of the nine Democratic candidates running for aldermen to appear on Air-it-Out with George Wenschhof. You can read my conversation with her here.
Michael O'Connor will join me between 5:00 - 7:00 PM ET tonight. The link to our discussion will be placed conveniently in the right hand margin of the home page so readers can also access at a time convenient to them.
I previously had all three Democratic mayoral candidates on my website and the links to those interviews can also be found in the right hand margin of the home page. On Thursday July 30 from 2:00 - 4:00 PM ET, Democratic alderman candidate Kelly Russell will be my guest.
The primary will be held on September 15 when voters will determine the five Democratic candidates who will move on to the general election on November 3. Also, please remember the deadline to register to vote prior to the primary is August 17.
--------------------
To receive "Daily Email Updates" from Air-it-Out with George Wenschhof, click on "Subscribe to this feed" below.
Sunday, July 26, 2009
Daily Democratic Wire 7-26-2009
George Wenschhof
Tomorrow, President Barack Obama will address the start of meetings between U.S. and China - Secretary of state Hillary Clinton and Treasury Secretary Timothy Geithner will head the U.S. delegation and Vice premier Wang Qisham and State Councilor Dai Bingguo will head the Chinese delegation. Everything is on the table ranging from differences in currencies, trade gaps, the budget deficit, and nuclear weapon development by North Korea. You can read more here.
--------------------
Rep. Hank Johnson (D-Ga.) wants health care bill passed before recess - an ambitious goal considering the disagreement among Democrats in the House. Majority Leader Steny Hoyer (D-Md.) indicated there is a slim chance of approval prior to the recess that begins July 31. However, I would not be surprised if the House did reach approval this week on a health care bill. Stay Tuned. TheHill.com has more here.
--------------------
Vice President pens op-ed on success of Stimulus bill - he writes about how the 800 Billion Economic Recovery Act has stopped the massive job losses the country had been experiencing, starting thousands of projects and reduced taxes for 95% of Americans. You can track the progress of the bill by going to http://www.recovery.gov/. The NY Times has his op-ed here.
--------------------
Efforts to clean up anti-trust violations hit many obstacles - pushed by Senator Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) this has received support of the Obama administration. It is the same old story of the large companies getting larger at the expense of the consumer. Almost every aspect of industry is affected ranging from airlines, trains, communications, and Agra business. Efforts to control, however, are not easy to enforce. The NY Times has a good read here.
--------------------
First debate in Virginia Governor race held last night - expect this race to receive lots of attention from the national Democratic and Republican parties. Creigh Deeds (D) will be facing Robert McDonnell (R) for the top seat in the state that turned blue in last year's presidential election. President Obama has promised to campaign next month for deeds and Michael Steele, director of the RNC has promised money and support for McDonnell.
Obviously, both political parties see this race as one that can be exploited for their advantage should they win. The Washington Post has more here.
--------------------
To receive "Daily Email Updates" from Air-it-Out with George Wenschhof, click on "Subscribe to this feed" below.
Saturday, July 25, 2009
Daily Democratic Wire 7-25-2009
George Wenschhof
Yesterday, President Barack Obama addressed the White House press corps on the incident in Cambridge - during the question and answer period following Obama's nationally televised speech on health care reform Wednesday night, the president said some words he regrets. When asked about a recent arrest of a African-American professor in his home by a white Cambridge, Mass. police sgt., the president had said the "police acted stupidly". The police were responding to a breaking and entering call.
He has called both sgt. Crowley and professor Gates and now says they may have both overreacted to this situation and hoped with the national spotlight this was receiving that racial profiling would continued to be reviewed and examined.
The president invited both Crowley and Gates to the White House. Maybe they will share a beer together. Time.com has more here.
--------------------
First Family plans vacation - I noticed during Wednesday night's press conference, the president looked a little tired and did not deliver his normal inspirational type of speech. For those of you who read this site regularly, you know the president has an extremely hectic daily non-stop schedule.
So the planned family trip to Martha's Vineyard for the last week in August is probably coming at the right time. The Vineyard Gazette has more about the 28.5 acre compound they have rented and their vacation plans here.
--------------------
House Majority Leader Steny Hoyer (D-Md.) says House may stay in session past August 1 recess to pass health care bill - at this point, passage does not seem likely as the bill is stalled in the House Energy and Commerce Committee. You can read more here.
--------------------
Say Bye-Bye as tomorrow Sarak Palin will exit Governor's Mansion in Alaska - she is having a farewell picnic in Fairbanks. Seems the residents of Alaska are as divided in their opinions of her as the rest of the country. Politico.com has more here.
--------------------
To receive "Daily Email Updates" from Air-it-Out with George Wenschhof, click on "Subscribe to this feed" below.
Obama Weekly Address 7-25-2009
George Wenschhof
Today, President Barack Obama continues to discuss health care reform. He goes over the impact of reform on small business and asks you for your questions. You can watch his address by clicking on the picture below.
--------------------
To receive "Daily Email Updates" from Air-it-Out with George Wenschhof, click on "Subscribe to this feed" below.
Sunday Morning "Talking Heads" Guests 7-26-2009
George Wenschhof
Remember, to check your local listings for time and channel - Enjoy!
NBC "Meet The Press" - David Gregory snags the headliner of the day as he sits down for the full hour with Secretary of State Hillary Clinton. She has just returned to the U.S. after a trip to India and Thailand. Plenty of foreign policy issues to discuss ranging from the Iraq and Afghanistan wars to Iran, the Middle East, North Korea, and Russia.
There were reports out a week ago that Hillary Clinton was upset with the Obama administration with the time being taken on background checks prior to hiring of staff she wanted to bring on board. In addition, rumors have been circulating she was upset because she was not receiving the attention in foreign policy that was being given to the president and vice president. Let's see if David Gregory brings any of this up in his discussion with her.
Also expect her thoughts on the Obama administration efforts for health care reform. She spearheaded the last serious effort at reform during the first term of her husband Bill Clinton. She suffered an embarrassing defeat and certainly knows first hand how tough health care reform is in Congress.
ABC "This Week" - after a week off due to coverage of the British Open, George Stephanopoulos wades into the health care reform debate with Senators Kent Conrad (D-NC) and Jim DeMint (R-SC).
The roundtable discussion will include Donna Brazile, George Will, Paul Krugman, David Brooks and Arriana Huffington.
CBS "Face The Nation" - Bob Schieffer will welcome David Axelrod; White House Senior Adviser, Gov. Bobby Jindal (R-La) and Rep. Jim Cooper (D-Tenn). Let's see if Schieffer brings up the "police acted stupidly" comments made by President Obama pertaining to the arrest of an African-American professor in his own house by a white police sergeant from Cambridge. President Obama has since invited both the professor and the police sergeant to the White House.
Fox News Sunday - Chris Wallace will have as his guest White House Press Secretary Robert Gibbs and Senate Minority Whip Jon Kyl (R-Ariz.).
The discussion panel will include Bill Kristol, Brit Hume, Mara Liasson and Juan Williams.
CNN "State of The Union" - John King also has White House Senior Adviser David Axelrod. Joining Axelrod as guests will be House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calf.) and Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.)
CNN "Fareed Zakaria GPS" - always an informative hour, this week Fareed Zakaria will have a panel with guests Nouriel Roubini, Niall Ferguson and Mort Zukerman who will discuss the current status of the economy. Zakaria is also expected to discuss the current situation in Iran from someone inside the country.
--------------------
To receive "Daily Email Updates" from Air-it-Out with George Wenschhof, click on "Subscribe to this feed" below.
Friday, July 24, 2009
Daily Democratic Wire 7-24-2009
George Wenschhof
Today, President Barack Obama will meet with Senate Leaders Reid and Baucus to discuss health care reform - the president invited Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-Nev.) and Max Baucus (D-Mont.) to the White House. Reid announced last night that the president's timeline of an August approval will not be met. Max Baucus (D-Mont.) who is chair of the Senate Finance Committee has been working on a bi-partisan agreement and the committee now is expected to have a bill moved forward by August. You can read more here.
Later in the day, President Obama will discuss his 5 Billion education program that is part of the Stimulus bill. He will make remarks at the Department of Education explaining how states can access these funds. the Wall Street Journal has more here.
Tonight Barack and Michelle Obama will attend the Marine corps parade at the Marine Corps Barracks.
--------------------
Minimum Wage increases to 7.25 per hour today - this is the last of a series of increases that were previously approved from when the minimum wage was at 5.15 oer hour. Even with the increase, it is incredible to imagine any family being able to live at 7.25 per hour today. Time.com has a read here which includes a little history of how minimum wage came about in the U.S. Seems, it started in Massachusetts back in 1912 and covered women and children.
--------------------
53% view Alaska Governor Sarah Palin negatively - a pretty steep drop in approval for the woman who was the Republican VP running mate for John McCain's presidential bid last year. The Governor is set to leave office early this coming Sunday. the Washington Post/ ABC News poll showed only 40% viewed Palin in a positive manner. MSNBC.com has more here.
--------------------
Middle East Envoy George Mitchell hopes to engage Syria in peace talks - he will be in Damascus prior to Meeting in Israel on Sunday with Israel and Palestine officials. Talks with Syria by the U.S. had not taken place during the George W. Bush administration. You can read more here.
--------------------
Secretary of State Hillary Clinton asks Zelaya to delay his attempt to return to Honduras - the deposed president is trying for the second time to return to the country since a coup resulted in him being flown out of the country and an interim government put in place. Negotiations between the interim government and Zelaya mediated by Costa Rican President Oscar Arias have broken down. Clinton feared an outbreak of violence could occur and caution against a return at this time. Zelaya is attempting to cross into Honduras by Jeep across the northern boundary from Nicaragua tomorrow. You can read more here.
--------------------
To receive "Daily Email Updates" from Air-it-Out with George Wenschhof, click on "Subscribe to this feed" below.
Thursday, July 23, 2009
Wenschhof Interviews City of Frederick, MD Alderman Donna Kuzemchak
George Wenschhof
Welcome Donna, I am pleased to have you as my guest today. Just so the readers know, we are communicating via computer from different locations in the city.
I have not shared with Ms.Kuzemchak any of the questions I will be asking and this will be a live online discussion. If you are reading this live, remember to hit "Refresh" on your computer every ten minutes or so to make sure you see the more recent questions and answers.
We will place the link to this conversation in the right hand margin of our home page so our viewers can read at a time convenient to them.
Before we get started, I want to remind everyone the voter registration deadline is August 17 prior to the primary on September 15. So, if you have not yet registered, go do so!
GW - Let's start out with asking a question many voters have and that is why are you running for a fourth term? I have not checked out the city election trivia but I would guess if four terms is not a record, it has to be near the top in the history of the City of Frederick aldermen.
I'm running for a fourth term as Alderman because I believe I still make a difference. There are many residents who will attest to the fact that I actually return phone calls and emails and follow up on their issues. I got involved in government because I knew I could help people get through the bureaucracy of government. I had done it and it was exhausting! Helping others through that maze is my proudest accomplishment. I am also well known for proposing new legislation when the laws don't seem to be working well for the citizens. It's all about helping everyone who lives, works and plays in the City of Frederick.
During the current Republican Mayor Holtzinger administration, there have been less public displays of disagreement. Some voters feel as a result, Mayor Holtzinger was given too much rein by the aldermen during the last four years. What do you say to these voters?
You are one that does not back away from who you support and have publicly stated your support for Jennifer Dougherty for mayor. Your straight forward approach has helped you win three terms in office. Tell the voters why you support Jennifer Dougherty for mayor.
Part of who I am is a person who absolutely loves Frederick. I want what is best for this place I call home and plan to live for the rest of my life. Should I be lucky enough to be elected, I will work with whoever sits in the Mayor's office. Having said that, I worked with Jennifer as she sat in that office. I've also worked with two other people who sat in that office. Neither of them held a candle to Jennifer. She worked hard under very trying circumstances and we got so much more accomplished in her term than either of my other terms.
I admit, there's another side to this. Jennifer works so hard at her job and thinks people should see what a good job she does, so she doesn't publicize what I consider a very important part of her. She is a caring, compassionate person who honestly worries about the welfare of all. She honestly cares about those she works with, and she showed me that caring many times over the years, especially when it came to my stepdaughter, Ashley.
I believe you missed that vote due to health issues.
Ron Tobin, the executive assistant to Mayor Holtzinger was one of those who took this buy out and was hired back by the mayor.
What do you feel about how this program was approved and whether or not Ron Tobin should still be working for the City of Frederick?
I believe ERIP (or 'the buyout,' as it is commonly called) was pushed through while I was recovering from cancer surgery. It was announced, discussed, and forced into a vote in less than 8 weeks! Eight weeks for something as serious as a change to the City Retirement Plans! As we've noted, the Mayor has control of the Agenda, not the Board of Aldermen or City staff. He could have slowed everything down, as he has for much other legislation. He chose to push ahead quickly. He chose to force a vote that night instead of allowing the Aldermen more time to look at the issue. I won't speculate on his reasoning to do so.
You have indicated on your campaign website; http://www.kuzemchakcampaign.com/, you cautiously favor the annexations of Thatcher and Crum. Tell the voters why you favor these annexations and why you do not include the Summers property.
As for the Summers farm on the south side of the City, I just haven't seen that dedication to making sure the City is a better place. The neighborhood has already vehemently opposed the annexation and I see no reason to grow just for the purpose of growing when it doesn't help make the City a better place to live, work and play.
First, explain this program and why you feel this is needed and second, why do you feel you have not received the support to pass this legislation?
Alderman Imhoff and I are working to put together his proposal for Rental Registration and my proposal for Rental Licensing so we can move forward with this. We asked the Mayor to have the Legal Department do this months ago. We've heard nothing.
This is just another example of the Mayor having control of all staff time. As an aside, one of the other pieces of legislation I brought forward was a change to the Charter that would allow a super-majority(4) of the Aldermen to force the Mayor to direct staff to move forward with the will of the Aldermen. I asked for this change as part of a general look at the Charter and several other changes the Charter Review Committee brought forward. Interestingly, none of that has been brought to a vote, either.
I am who you see. I don't pretend to be different. I don't change during an election year. Maybe that's to my detriment, but it is who I am. If you care about the issues, go to the City's website and watch a few meetings. I am the one asking the questions. I am the one who has read the material and knows how one decision might affect another decision or piece of legislation. I am the one who finds a compromise between two sides of an issue when SOMETHING has to happen and no one can agree. I have worked hard for every citizen who has asked for help(and many who haven't) for almost 12 years. I have made a difference. I hope to continue to do that.
Before we sign off, I would like to give you some time for closing remarks.
For those of you who haven't had the time, please visit my website at www.kuzemchakcampaign.com and feel free to contact me about any issue. I first ran for office because I thought I could help make government accessible. I believe I have done that. I love my job and I hope it shows.
Finally, I'd like to ask everyone to take nothing for granted. The City's election is going to be decided by a very small number of citizens, as George has noted on many of his columns. Just a few votes here and there and a person has a very real chance of not getting elected. Don't assume the person you want to run your city will get elected. Work for her or him. Give him or her just a few hours and put flyers on peoples' doorsteps (don't worry, no need to talk with anyone). Tell your friends why your candidates should be elected. Put a sign or two in your yard. Email people reminding them to vote. Don't 'single shot' vote. Vote for all the candidates you want in office. It's the only way we're going to get there
Thanks for visiting this interview and thanks again, George, for hosting it.
Daily Democratic Wire 7-23-2009
George Wenschhof
Today, President Barack Obama will visit Cleveland, Ohio - he will visit the Cleveland Clinic and also hold a town hall meeting on health care reform. USAToday has more here.
The president will then head to Chicago to attend fundraisers before heading home. The Chicago Tribune has more here.
--------------------
Obama delivers prime time speech on health care reform - his speech last night re enforced the need for health care reform. He pointed out the enormous national debt and budget deficit left by the former George W. Bush administration which has already been reduced in the first six months of his administration. While saying we can not afford not to pass reform, he left the door open to compromise. The NY Times has more here.
The president appeared tired as he delivered his speech last night and not at the top of his game as we have come to expect. Perhaps, he needs more than a one day escape to Camp David for a little R & R.
--------------------
Unemployment claims rise in July - up by 30,000 as unemployment remains high. As I have stated many times, it is a bad sign when the unemployment figures rise during the summer months Seasonal jobs typically reduce unemployment over the summer. Bloomberg.com has more here.
--------------------
Corruption and Money-Laundering Scheme unearthed in N.J. - the U.S. Attorney's office is scheduled to hold a press conference at noon today. More details will be provided on the arrest of 30 individuals; including Mayors Peter Cammanaro III of Hoboken and Dennis Elwell of Seacaucus. The NY Times has more here.
--------------------
Georgia President Mikhail Saakashvili asks U.S. for Weapons - in a meeting with Vice President Joe Biden. Requests were made for anti-tank and anti-aircraft weapons. No promises were made by the Vice President. You can read more here.
--------------------
To receive "Daily Email Updates" from Air-it-Out with George Wenschhof, click on "Subscribe to this feed" below.
City of Frederick, MD Alderman Donna Kuzemchak to be Guest Today
George Wenschhof
Beginning at 5:00 PM ET, three term alderman Donna Kuzemchak will be my guest. She is the first of the Democratic candidates for aldermen to appear on Air-it-Out with George Wenschhof.
Previously, the three Democratic candidates for mayor appeared and my interview with Jennifer Dougherty can be read here, Jason Judd here and Chris Simpson here.
There are nine Democrats running for five alderman seats in the September 15 primary. I plan to have 2 of them as guests each week over the next month. The schedule so far is as follows:
7-27-2009: Michael O'Connor from 7-9 PM
7-30-2009: Kelly Russell from 2-4 PM
8-4-2009: Josh Bokee from 7-9 PM
8-6-2009: Karen Lewis Young from 5-7 PM
8-11-2009: Andrew Kotkin from 7-9 PM
8-20-2009 John Daniels from 5-7 PM
We will post links to all of the interviews in the right hand margin of the home page so you can access them easily and read at a convenient time.
--------------------
To receive "Daily Email Updates" from Air-it-Out with George Wenschhof, click on "Subscribe to this feed" below.
Wednesday, July 22, 2009
City of Frederick, MD Democratic Mayoral Race Has Tongues Wagging
George Wenschhof
It is now only 54 days until the primary on September 15 and the race to capture the Democratic nomination for mayor is one to watch.
Four years ago, former four term mayor Ron Young reappeared to challenge incumbent and first term mayor Jennifer Dougherty in the Democratic primary. It had been 16 years since he had been defeated by Republican Paul Gordon who would go on to serve one term as Mayor.
However, before Mr. Young could appear on the ballot, there was a city charter provision requiring three years of residency which Mr. Young did not meet. The Republican aldermen on the board, frustrated with Mayor Dougherty, proposed and passed a charter amendment changing the residency requirement to one year. Mr. Young, who had lived literally a stones throw from the city boundary before moving back to the city, now met the requirement.
But, not so fast, as Mayor Dougherty vetoed the charter amendment nullifying the change in residency. What followed was a series of legal challenges, the result being Mr. Young was allowed to run for mayor. Along the way, the city charter provision of three years was determined to be unconstitutional, leading Mayor Dougherty to rescind her veto of the charter amendment changing the residency requirement to one year.
Interestingly, when the city three year residency requirement was determined not to be legal, and the amendment was passed changing it to one year, there is a 45 day period before it goes into effect. During this 45 day period there was no residency requirement for a mayoral candidate for the City of Frederick. It was during this period current Republican Jeff Holtzinger, who did not live in the city and another Republican; the late Stanley Mazaleski who resided in Emmitsburg, Maryland filed for the office of mayor.
Incumbent favored Republican alderman Joe Baldi, who was running for mayor and did live in the city, was defeated by Jeff Holtzinger in the Republican primary by 35 votes (1077-1042). How many votes did Mr. Mazaleski receive? - 35.
Mr.Young, after spending a reported record amount exceeding $100,000, went on to defeat Mayor Dougherty in the primary 2218 to 1690. You can read the City of Frederick primary results here.
Ron Young, however would lose in the general election to political newcomer and non-city resident Jeff Holtzinger 4740 to 4382.
Tongues wagged and pundits wrote that a spiteful Ms. Dougherty urged her supporters to vote for Republican Jeff Holtzinger ensuring the defeat of Ron Young.
While many others questioned why Mr. Young had not campaigned with more vigor after winning the primary. This group expressed doubt any candidate would be able to persuade enough voters to vote against the candidate of their political party.
Regardless, Ron Young and the Democratic party suffered an embarrassing defeat in the 2005 election.
The background is necessary as the pundits are writing and the tongues are wagging once more in the Democratic primary race for mayor.
Local Republicans are hoping the same divide that transpired in the 2005 Democratic primary will take place yet again this year. They hope it will lead to another Republican being elected mayor as they realize voter registration does not favor Republicans in the City of Frederick. So, many Republicans are helping to spread rumors of turmoil within the Democratic ranks.
This time, for the Democrats, it is a political newcomer and recent resident of the city, Jason Judd, former mayor Jennifer Dougherty and hometown Chris Simpson who are the candidates for mayor. All three have been my guest on the website and their interviews are linked in the right hand margin of the home page.
Some of the rumors circulating surrounding Mr. Judd who works for the Service Employees International Union and has the support of former Mayor Ron Young is he is just a surrogate for Mr. Young and the Union. In my conversations with Jason, I have not found that to be true. Rather, I see him trying to garner support from different folks throughout the city as he meets with voters expressing his platform while listening to their concerns. However, expect that label to stick somewhat as the race heads to the homestretch.
Others try to label Ms. Dougherty as the former mayor who could not get along with anyone and that is another unfair statement which will likely stick with some voters. I have found Jennifer to be cooperative, fair, and straightforward as to her positions on the issues. She is also busy reaching out to voters across the city.
The label that Mr. Simpson is running to aid Dougherty is another unfair and flat out not true rumor. The chances of Chris Simpson winning the Democratic nomination for mayor are slim due to the lateness of his entry to the race. However, it will not be due to his lack of campaigning. He will receive much more than a token number of votes.
Will Chris Simpson attract the blue collar vote? After meeting with him, I would argue that he will. From Mr. Simpson's perspective, he is not running to pull votes from one or the other Democratic candidate - He is running to win - the same as the other two Democratic candidates for mayor.
The Democratic candidates for mayor know better than to personally attack one another as it would only aid the Republican nominee in the general election. So, expect Dougherty, Judd and Simpson to stick to the issues and what they plan to do if elected mayor.
Instead, it is the Republicans who should be worried; especially so, if Ron Tobin becomes their nominee. He would be a lightening rod to galvinize and unify Democratic voters ensuring a Democratic victory in November. Democratic voters will tie him to the former James Grimes administration and all the turmoil and questions surrounding the last term in office by Mr. Grimes.
Further, the acceptence of a two year early retirement buy-out, only to be rehired by mayor Jeff Holtzinger is an outrage to all the working men and women in the city, regardless of political affiliation.
Republican voters would be better served to nominate Randy McClement as their mayoral candidate on September 15. Mr. McClement is known as a nice guy who has experience working on various city commissions. The most recent being the city charter rewrite committee.
While united Democratic voters will make it difficult for any Republican to win election as mayor, Randy will not act as the lightening rod to unite the Democratic base.
Look to see the Democratic candidates continue to concentrate on the issues important to the voters throughout the remaining 71/2 weeks prior to the primary and for a united front in the general election supporting their nominee for mayor.
--------------------
To receive "Daily Email Updates" from Air-it-Out with George Wenschhof, click on "Subscribe to this feed" below.
Daily Democratic Wire 7-22-2009
George Wenschhof
Tonight at 8:00 PM ET, President Barack Obama will hold a nationally televised news conference - he will deliver remarks on health care reform and the status of the economy. The president will also answer questions from reporters afterward. The NY Times has more here.
Listen to see if Obama sticks to his August timetable for approval from Congress or signals a fall approval date would be acceptable. Remember also, due to the parliamentary procedure used to approve the budget, the president can use what is know as budget reconciliation to gain approval for health care reform. This approval process would only require a simple majority.
This afternoon President Obama will meet with Iraq Prime Minister Maliki. A 3:00 PM ET press conference is planned. The Wall Street Journal has more here.
--------------------
Vice President Joe Biden is in the Republic of Georgia - where he will hold two days of talks with President Mikhail Saakashvili. Georgia tried to reclaim South Ossetia about one year ago by military force only to be repulsed by Russian troops. Saakashvili has come under harsh opposition from Georgians who did not agree with his actions. You can read more here.
--------------------
Honduran talks continue - Costa Rica President Oscar Aria will hold a third round of talks today between representatives of ousted Honduran President Manuel Zelaya and interim President Roberto Micheletti. Zelaya continues to vow to return to his country. You can read more here.
--------------------
On the home front, outgoing Alaska Governor Sarah Palin hits the news again - this time for ethics violations - seems a legal defense fund to pay for the mounting legal costs for all of the various claims against Palin may have been set up illegally. Seems the only potential GOP presidential candidate for 2012 who hasn't been dragged through the coals lately is former Massachusetts Governor Mitt Romney. MSNBC.com has more here.
--------------------
Banks and Auto companies spend heavily on lobbying the Hill - over the first six months of this years, the same companies that received money from the 700 Billion Bailout bill and the 800 Billion Stimulus bill spent 20 million lobbying Congress. TheHill.com has more here.
--------------------
To receive "Daily Email Updates" from Air-it-Out with George Wenschhof, click on "Subscribe to this feed" below.
Tuesday, July 21, 2009
Daily Democratic Wire 7-21-2009
George Wenschhof
Today, President Barack Obama continues to push health care reform - he is scheduled to make some remarks from the White House this morning. The president is also meeting with some of the Blue Dog Democrats who are on the House Energy and Commerce Committee this morning at the White House. Politico.com has more here.
Tomorrow night, Obama has a prime time slot again to address the nation - it will be televised by NBC, CBS and ABC. It will begin at 8:00 PM ET and expect him to push the need for health care reform and to give an update on the status of the economy.
This afternoon, Obama with meet with Defense Secretary Robert Gates.
Tonight, as part of a continuing series promoting the arts, the White House will host a country music concert with Charlie pride, Alison Krauss, Brad Paisley and Union Station. You can read more here.
--------------------
Americans trust in government drops - a Public Strategies Inc./Politico poll out today shows the trust Americans have in government has dropped from March of this year. Not unexpected as the recessions lingers and unemployment remains high.
Trust in Republicans has dropped from 40% to 36% while trust in Democrats has dropped from 52% to 42%. The trust in Obama has dropped from 66% to 54% so Americans still trust the President more than the political parties. Politico.com has more here.
--------------------
Bernanke to give an update on economy to Congress - today the Federal Reserve Chair will be testifying before the House Financial Services Committee beginning at 10:00 AM ET. Tomorrow, he is set to appear before the Senate Banking Committee. He is expected to say signs are encouraging, markets have stabilized.... Expect lots of questions regarding the impact of both the 700 Billion Bailout bill and the 800 Billion Stimulus bill. You can read more here.
--------------------
Vice President Joe Biden says U.S. will support Ukraine entry into NATO - after he met with Ukraine President Viktor Yushchenko today. Biden will also travel to the Republic of Georgia and meet with President Mikhail Saakashvili. Both Ukraine and Georgia are pro-western countries in the region with concern about the recent effort by the U.S. to improve relations with Russia. You can read more here.
--------------------
Secretary of State Hillary Clinton arrives in Bangkok, Thailand - she expressed her concerns pertaining to reported ties between Myanmar "Burma" and North Korea. Tomorrow, she will attend a regional security conference. You can read more here.
--------------------
To receive "Daily Email Updates" from Air-it-Out with George Wenschhof, click on "Subscribe to this feed" below.
Monday, July 20, 2009
Aldermen Candidates to be Guests on "Air-it-Out with George Wenschhof"
George Wenschhof
Only eight weeks left prior to the City of Frederick, Maryland primary on September 15.
To help you get to know the Democratic candidates, we have published "Meet The Candidates" online forums with Mayoral candidates Jennifer Dougherty and Jason Judd. Their answers to the questions asked by you, the readers of this site, can be found in the right hand margin of the home page. This was held prior to when Chris Simpson filed for mayor.
I also have interviewed live online all three of the Democratic mayoral candidates and the links to those interviews are also located in the right hand margin of the home page.
On Thursday July 23, I will have as my guest, incumbent alderman Donna Kuzemchak as I begin to speak with the nine Democrats running for the five aldermen positions. She will join me online from 5:00 - 7:00 PM ET.
Next week, Michael O'Connor will join me live online on Monday July 27 from 7:00 - 9:00 PM ET and Kelly Russell will be my guest on Thursday July 30 from 2:00 - 4:00 PM ET.
I will keep you posted as additional times and dates are confirmed with the remaining Democratic candidates for alderman.
--------------------
To receive "Daily Email Updates" from Air-it-Out with George Wenschhof, click on "Subscribe to this feed" below.
Daily Democratic Wire 7-20-2009
George Wenschhof
Today, President Barack Obama will continue to talk health care reform - he will talk with NBC Today's Meredith Vieira and PBS's Jim Lehrer. The president will also deliver some remarks at a event at the Children's Medical Center. Politico.com has more here.
--------------------
Obama approval rating remains high at 59% - according to a Washington Post/ABC News Poll. Americans still favor health care reform with 54% approving the basic framework that is in front of Congress. The president's handling of health care approval rating has dropped from 57% to 49%. The Washington Post has more here.
--------------------
House Blue Dog Democrats to introduce "pay-as-you-go" legislation this week - will come at a time when many are questioning the spending by the Obama administration. It is intended to ease the concern of Americans over the increase in the federal deficit. The bill is expected to receive the 218 votes needed to pass the House with Republicans in opposition. TheHill.com has more here.
--------------------
Vice President Joe Biden off to Ukraine and Republic of Georgia - he is scheduled to meet with the presidents of both countries. The Republic of Georgia and Russia had their recent flare up over territorial rights and Russia asserted their power in the region. You can read more here.
--------------------
Hillary Clinton meets with India Prime Minister today - after meeting with Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, the Secretary of State met with University students for some questions and answers. MSNBC.com has more here.
--------------------
To receive "Daily Email Updates" from Air-it-Out with George Wenschhof, click on "Subscribe to this feed" below.
Sunday, July 19, 2009
Daily Democratic Wire 7-19-2009
George Wenschhof
President Barack Obama will host the Apollo 11 Crew at the White House tomorrow - marking the 40th anniversary of the U.S. landing on the moon. All close to 80 now, Michael Collins, Buzz Aldrin and Neil Armstong will all visit wit the president. You can read more here.
--------------------
Secretary of State Hillary Clinton is in New Dehli, India - as part of a overseas trip that will also include a visit to Thailand. She spoke yesterday of hope the U.S. and India can come to an agreement on climate control measures. Both India and China with emerging technology and industrialization are currently major polluters. You can read more here.
--------------------
Meanwhile, no resolution has been reached in regard to the ouster of Honduran President Manuel Zelaya - the President of Costa Rica; Oscar Arias has been mediating talks between representatives of Manuel Zelaya and Roberto Micheletti, the interim President of Honduras. Talks centered around restoring Zelaya to power and creating a coalition government have not proved successful to date. The NY Times has more here.
--------------------
Taliban releases video of captured U.S. soldier in Afghanistan - in it, the captured soldier pleads for the people in the U.S. to pressure the government to end the war and to bring them home. These type of videos bring home the horrors of war as the captors coerce statements from prisoners to be used for propaganda purposes. MSNBC.com has the video here.
The U.S. military condemned the use of the video and said it violated international law, adding they were doing everything they could to bring the man home safely. Reuters.com has more here.
--------------------
Health Care Reform continues to move forward - in spite of the Republican Party of "No" and concerns about a rising budget deficit, the passage of universal health care is on a course for passage. President Obama has secured the support of the pharmaceutical association, the hospitals, nurses, and doctors as the push to insure the 47 uninsured Americans remains strong. Senator Edward Kennedy (D-Mass.) who has fought for this all of his political career, has a good read in Newsweek. You can read it here.
--------------------
To receive "Daily Email Updates" from Air-it-Out with George Wenschhof, click on "Subscribe to this feed" below.
City of Frederick, MD Election "Sunday Snippets"
George Wenschhof
Just eight weeks to go until the primary on September 15 for the three Democratic candidates for Mayor and the nine Democratic candidates for aldermen. On September 15, Democratic voters in the City of Frederick will chose their mayoral candidate and five aldermen to be on the ballot for the November 3 general election.
I have interviewed live online all three Democratic candidates for mayor and you can find the links to their interviews in the right hand margin under "Wenschhof Candidate Interviews". Previous to Mr. Simpson joining the race, we had held "Meet The Candidate" online forums where readers asked the candidates questions. Those links are also located in the right hand margin of the home page.
I intend to have all three mayoral candidates as my guest again prior to the primary and am also considering a online forum with questions from you for them to answer.
On the Mayoral side, Chris Simpson sat down for lunch with Jason Judd and Jennifer Dougherty last week. Both had called Mr. Simpson and he said "let's do lunch" and they did. Mr. Simpson had told me Jason sounded a little tentative on the phone and Jennifer was very smooth and professional.
In person, Chris said they both came across well. Interestingly, they both asked him the same question; "Why did you decide to run for mayor?". Simpson added that Jason also said "You know, you might have just given the election to Jennifer". Simpson answered the same question in his online interview with me last week. He wants to help revitalize the west end and cares about Frederick.
Simpson said Judd also said he had read his interview with me on my website and informed him he had never indicated he was interested in going to Washington in regard to politics. Chris said he apologized to Jason for saying a statement he thought he had heard and asked that I add that in my next column - done.
Jennifer added in her conversation with Chris that some people were saying she had put him up to run. Chris thought that was funny as the luncheon meeting was the first time he had ever meet Dougherty.
Over the weekend, all three were out canvassing neighborhoods - I wonder if they ran into each other on the campaign trail? Judd and Dougherty signs continue to pop up in neighborhoods and I saw the first Simpson signs up last Friday.
So far, everyone has been nice, nice. Let's hope it stays that way and the mayoral candidates concentrate on the issues important to the voters and what they intend to do if elected.
Beginning next week, I plan to begin interviewing live online the Democratic candidates for Alderman. I have heard back from the first five I have contacted (Donna Kuzemchak, Josh Bokee, Kelly Russell, Michael O'Connor and Andrew Kotkin). They have all agreed to appear as my guest and now we will be scheduling times and dates. I hope to be able to have all nine of the Democratic aldermen candidates as my guest on the site prior to the primary. So, check back often to see when they will be appearing.
Some of the aldermen candidate signs have begun popping up in neighborhoods around town. Kelly Russell, who was the first Democrat to file, has her home neighborhood covered big time. Her choice of a oval inside a rectangle size sign is unique and catches your attention. Of course, she needs more than her neighborhood votes to win election. She had a planned canvass this weekend with volunteers she calls "Kelly's Heroes", so we may be seeing more signs elsewhere soon.
Michael O'Connor signs have begun to pop up as well. The strangest new sign I have noticed is a recycled cut up 2005 "Ron Young for Mayor" campaign sign being used presumably by Karen Lewis Young; his wife. The lower half of the sign which had the words "for mayor" has been cut off leaving only the word "Young". Ron did win the primary four years ago before losing in the general election so the correlation some voters may reach in their minds may work for Karen in the primary.
So far, my residence in downtown Frederick has received campaign literature from Mayoral candidates Dougherty (2 times) and Judd. Literature from aldermen candidates Josh Bokee and Karen Lewis Young has also been dropped off.
I met with Josh Bokee recently over lunch at my favorite "Beans and Bagels" deli downtown. His experience serving on the City of Frederick Planing and Zoning Commission will serve him well should he go on to win election to the Board of Aldermen.
Stay Tuned.
--------------------
To receive "Daily Email Updates" from Air-it-Out with George Wenschhof, click on "Subscribe to this feed" below.
Saturday, July 18, 2009
Daily Democratic Wire 7-18-2009
George Wenschhof
The passing of journalist Walter Cronkite at the age of 92 is felt by many Americans - he was the news anchor at CBS for 20 years from 1960-1980 and his sign-off phrase "and that's the way it is" became known in every household. He reported on events from the Korean war, WWII, Vietnam, the assassinations of JFK and MLK, to the Apollo landing on the moon. MSNBC.com has a good read here.
--------------------
Today, President Barack Obama heads to Camp David for a little R&R - the presidential retreat, located near Thurmont, Maryland is nearby D.C. and a great spot to get away for a day. The president will return to D.C. tomorrow. Last night, he issued a statement on the passing of long time news anchor Walter Cronkite. Time.com has his statement here.
--------------------
House Intelligence Committee to investigate C.I.A. - in the wake of the recent disclosure the C.I.A. had a secret program to deploy teams to assassinate al-Queda leaders, Committee Chair Silvestre Reyes (D-Tex.) announced they would investigate if the law had been broken. You can read more here.
--------------------
Clinton arrives in Mumbai, India - yesterday, the U.S. Secretary of State signed a condolence book at the Taj Mahal Palace which was one of several luxury hotels targeted by terrorists a year ago. After spending two days in Mumbai, Hillary Clinton will visit New Dehli and then travel to Bangkok, Thailand. CNN.com has more here.
---------------------
Implementation of Obama administration plan to help homeowners facing foreclosure proves troublesome - the 50 Billion plan has only reached 160,000 out of the 3-4 million homes it is designed to help. Foreclosures are expected to hit 2 million this year. Politico.com has more here.
--------------------
Tina Fey receives Emmy nomination for her portrayal of Sarah Palin - earlier in the week, it was announced that in addition to the record 22 Emmy nominations for her show "30 Rock", she received one for her outstanding imitation of Republican Alaska Governor Sarah Palin. You can watch highlights of her Palin performances here.
--------------------
To receive "Daily Email Updates" from Air-it-Out with George Wenschhof, click on "Subscribe to this feed" below.
Obama Weekly Address 7-18-2009
George Wenschhof
The President talks about how important it is for Congress to act now and pass health care reform. Too many Americans are without health care and too many Americans are in fear of losing their health care if they lose their job. Click the picture below to listen to his speech.
download .mp3 download .mp4 (68.5 MB) read the transcript
Share/Bookmark Sunday Morning "Talking Heads" Guests 7-19-2009
George Wenschhof Bio
Remember to check your local listings for time and channel - Enjoy.
Walter Cronkite, the legendary CBS News Anchor who passed away Friday evening at the age of 92 will certainly be a topic of discussion Sunday morning.
NBC "Meet The Press" - David Gregory will discuss health care reform with HHS Secretary Kathleen Sebelius. The Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnelll (R-Ky.) will surely continue with the "Party of No" refrain.
The roundtable discussion will have John Harwood, Paul Gigot, Michelle Norris, and Richard Wolffe.
ABC "This Week" - No show this week - Coverage of British Open.
CBS "Face The Nation" - Bob Schieffer will welcome Senator Orrin Hatch (R-Utah) who will most likely discuss the Sotomayor confirmation hearing. Also appearing is Representative Charles Rangel (D-NY) who have spent close to one million over the last year defending himself on ethics charges. Then, it is RNC chair Michael Steele. Let's see what spin he uses to put a happy face on the Republican Party which has been in disarray ever since the 2008 election.
Fox News Sunday - Chris Wallace will discuss health care reform costs with OMB Director Peter Orzag. Also appearing is senator Judd Gregg (R-NH) - remember him? He was the guy President Obama nominated for Commerce Secretary who backed out shortly thereafter and voted against the Stimulus bill. Now, he is not running for reelection - good!
CNN "State of The Union" - John King will also discuss the cost of health care reform with Peter Orzag. The Sotomayor confirmation hearing will be discussed with Senate Judiciary Committee Chair Patrick Leahy (D-Vt.) and the ranking Republican on the committee, Jeff Sessions (R-Ala.). I met Senator Leahy when I worked on the Howard Dean campaign for president and found him to come across as very unassuming, yet you knew he was very smart.
CNN "Fareed Zakaria GPS" - Always a very informative hour, this week Fareed Zakaria has Rwandan President Paul Kagame. Also appearing will be two scholars; David Kilcullen and Andrew Bacevich, discussing the Afghanistan conflict and NATO involvement.
--------------------
To receive "Daily Updates" from Air-it-Out with George Wenschhof, click on "Subscribe to this feed' below.
Friday, July 17, 2009
Daily Democratic Wire 7-17-2009
George Wenschhof
Last night, President Barack Obama delivered a inspirational speech at the NAACP 100th anniversary dinner - I watched it on MSNBC and once again the President was able to connect with all Americans. He spoke of the important parts the NAACP has played in American history. At the home front, he spoke of the responsibility parents have in the education and raising of their children for the future. Time.com has his written remarks here.
--------------------
Today, Vice President Joe Biden will join President Obama in morning briefings - later, they plan to have lunch together. Politico.com has more here.
--------------------
This morning, the House Ways and Means Committee passed the House version of the health care reform bill - the vote was 23-18 and was mostly partisan. Other committees are still reviewing the bill and this is the start in moving the bill forward to the overall vote in the House. The NY Times has a good read here.
Yesterday, the American Medical Association (AMA) also endorsed the House Health care bill - this certainly gives the bill support. The AMA fought against health care reform during the Clinton administration, helping to end the effort brought forward by Hillary Clinton, the First Lady at that time. TheHill.com has more here.
--------------------
Secretary of State Hillary Clinton condemns bombings in Jakarta, Indonesia - yesterday, bombs exploded in two hotels killing nine and injuring at least 50. Clinton pledged U.S. aid to Indonesia. The Secretary of State will be arriving in Mumbai, India today as part of a overseas trip where she will also visit Thailand. You can read more here.
--------------------
Senate adds to Hate Crimes protection - yesterday, they voted 62-36 to add age and sexual orientation to the federally protected hate crimes legislation. The House had already passed their version of this bill. Five Senate Republicans joined all of the Democrats in passing this bill. TheHill.com has more here.
--------------------
Housing construction up in June - the headlines are saying highest level in seven months, but do not get excited and think the recession is over. For most of the country, housing starts are low from November to March due to weather conditions. The increase was a modest 20,000 units from May. MSNBC.com has more here.
--------------------
To receive "Daily Updates" from Air-it-Out with George Wenschhof, click on "Subscribe to this feed" below. Reply Forward
Thursday, July 16, 2009
Daily Democratic Wire 7-16-2009
George Wenschhof
Tonight, President Barack Obama heads to New York to speak at the NAACP 100th anniversary dinner - the first time a African-American President has addressed the organization. he is expected to discuss his plans for health care reform, education and the economy. Time.com has more here.
He will be busy in New York as he will also attend a fundraiser for NJ Governor Corzine and a DNC fundraiser before heading to the NAACP dinner.
Earlier in the day, the president will host Republican Senators Ben Nelson (Neb.) and Olympia Snowe (Maine) at the White House. He will be discussing health care reform with them.
--------------------
4th day of Sonia Sotomayor hearings began at 9:30 AM ET today - the supreme court justice nominee continues to perform well in spite of repeated efforts by Republican members of the committee asking "got you" type questions. TheHill.com has more here.
--------------------
Secretary of State Hillary Clinton says U.S. still willing to engage in talks with Iran, but the time is waning - Clinton made these remarks yesterday during a speech to the Council on Foreign Affairs. She warned Iran that if they continued with their nuclear program, they would face additional penalties and increased isolation from the rest of the world. MSNBC.com has more here.
--------------------
C.I.A. was preparing to activate secret program involving assassination teams abroad - the teams were to be assembled and trained abroad to assassinate al-Queda leaders. When the program moved forward to be activated and CIA director Leon Panetta was informed, he abruptly ended it. The Washington Post report on this story can be read here.
--------------------
To receive "Daily Updates" from Air-it-Out with George Wenschhof, click on "Subscribe to this feed" below.
Wednesday, July 15, 2009
Daily Democratic Wire 7-15-2009
George Wenschhof
Today, President Barack Obama will hold a press conference on health care reform - at 1:00 PM ET from the White House Rose Garden, the President with members of the American Nurses Administration will address health care reform. The American Nurses Administration represents 2.9 million registered nurses in America and have endorsed health care reform. Politico.com has more here.
The President will continue his health care reform theme of the day by meeting with all of the major television networks this afternoon to discuss the issue.
Last night, President Obama who is a southpaw, threw the first pitch to home plate from the Pitcher's mound at the start of the MLB All-Star game. The angle was cut off so viewers were unable to see if he made the plate or bounced it. The replay from a center field camera showed he barely made it - thanks to the catcher moving up slightly to catch the low toss. ESPN.com had the video replay here.
In a game that moved briskly along, the American League continued their winning streak with a 4-3 win over the National League. Baltimore Oriole center fielder Adam Jones drove in the winning run with a sacrifice fly.
--------------------
Sotomayor confirmation hearing set to resume at 9:30 AM ET today - this is the third day for Sonia Sotomayor before the Senate Judiciary Committee as the supreme court justice nominee continues to perform well. Newly sworn in Senator Al Franken (D-Minn.) along with other members of the committee will be asking questions today. Sotomayor is expected to receive confirmation. You can read more here.
--------------------
Secretary of State Hillary Clinton to travel to India and Thailand tomorrow - today, she will be delivering a major foreign policy speech to the Council on Foreign Relations. After a month of recovering from a fractured elbow, she is now back in action full time. You can read more here.
--------------------
Democrat Judy Chu wins California Congressional race in special election - this was probably the last of the merry go round special elections resulting from vacancies occurring from appointments to the Obama administration. This special election was for the seat held formerly by Hilda Solis, who is now Labor Secretary. TheHill.com has more here.
--------------------
To receive "Daily Updates" from Air-it-Out with George Wenschhof, click on "Subscribe to this feed" below.
Tuesday, July 14, 2009
Wenschhof Interviews City of Frederick, MD Mayoral Candidate Chris Simpson
George Wenschhof
I am pleased to have Democrat Chris Simpson as my guest today. We will begin at 2:00 PM ET and the interview will last approximately two hours. This is a live online interview and we are communicating via computer from different locations within the City of Frederick.
I would suggest if you are reading live, you hit your computer refresh button every ten minutes or so to see the next question and answer.
My previous guests were Democratic candidates for mayor; Jennifer Dougherty and Jason Judd. The links to my conversations with them are located in the right hand margin of the Home Page. The link to this interview will be added to them to allow readers easy access to all the interviews.
GW - Welcome Chris, I am looking forward to discussing your entry into the race for Mayor of The City of Frederick, Maryland. You were the last Democrat to file for mayor, less than one week prior to the filing deadline of July 7.
I understand you were born and raised in Frederick and currently own and manage "Golden Mile Liquors" located off what is locally referred to as the "Golden Mile". Tell the voters a little more about yourself and how you feel your background prepares you to be mayor.
CS - Hey George thanks for the opportunity.
Well as you said born here live here. I am living in the same house since 1973. I have seen all the changes in 40 years. When my family bought the store in 1976 I can remember the Mall in its prime. Your parents would drop you off with $20. With that money you saw a movie got ice cream at Friendlies and spent the rest of your quarters at Timeout. I live on the north end of town near Staley park were they still have little league.
Over the years I have been involved with the store from stock boy to owner. In fact I am still the stock boy/owner. If I win this election and serve my city for a period of time I will return to being the stock boy/owner.
I have had the good fortune traveling with bands for a few years so Ive been to 46 of the lower 48 states and I was an avid tourist. Still play guitar when I get the chance. My neighbors can tell that. I feel I have a vested interest in the race because everything I do will affect my neighbors, friends, family, and me. I am going to live in Frederick for the rest of my life so why not try to make it as good as it can be.
----
GW - I spoke to you the night you filed for office and the first thing you mentioned as to why you were running for office was the decline of some of the neighborhoods on the west side. You indicated you were also concerned in regard to the safety of these neighborhoods. If elected mayor, what would you propose to help revitalize these areas?
CS - Yes George I am very concerned about the west side. Working out there every night for the past 5 years I have seen a rapid decline in the area. Crime is up in every way. I cannot tell you how many times my store has been broken into.As well as most stores have been. Kidnappings ,assaults, muggings, Cars stolen or broken into. I had a friend who's car got stolen 2 weeks ago and got it back.They found it 6 miles away.It doesn't have to be that way in such a great city.
I am looking into ways for a greater police presence.Talking with local police and former police officers for a better view.Trying to get a better understanding of what could be affordable and helpful to the area.
----
GW - as a follow up, when I sat down with you last Friday, you indicated City of Frederick Police Chief Kim Dine had already reached out to you. I found this to be a very proactive move on his part. Chris, you had indicated to me previously, you felt a police substation located within the Fredericktowne Mall would be helpful. What did you find out in your conversation with Chief Dine?
CS - Yes Chief Dine did give me some of his time. I mentioned the sub-station idea. He explained that a sub-station would in fact take officers off the road.The police cars are high tech these days. Gone are the days of sitting at a desk filing paper work. The computer in the car takes care of all that. So I asked what is a good solution.Would an office in the mall help.
I am currently looking into alternatives such as the bike patrols .I would like to see pairs of officers on both sides of route 40. I believe there is enough activity that it would keep them busy on a regular basis.Chief Dine also informed me of an improved hot line residents can use anonymously (301)-600-tips or email fpdcrimetip@fredco-md.net.
So there are things out there, just need to get them known.
----
GW - You obviously feel you can offer as mayor something different and better for the voters than Democratic mayoral candidates Jason Judd and Jennifer Dougherty. What is it that you feel you offer the voters they do not? I also understand you have been contacted by both Jason and Jennifer and that you invited both of them to lunch. Did they say why they contacted you and why did you invite them to lunch?
CS - Jason and Jennifer are life long politicians. I am your neighbor and always will be. They both have expressed an interest in going to Washington. What happens to Frederick then. Everything I do in office will affect me. I offer the voters the guy that does understand because I am that guy. I have seen a lot of this country and I chose to always come home. Frederick really has everything going for it. I would like to keep it going in a positive direction -you know shine it up a little.Yes they did give the hi Chris call and had questions. I figured it would be easier over lunch. I am not even sure if the is a law or ethics code about opponents meeting. Hope not.
----
GW - You are quick to say you are not a politician type of guy and you are new to politics. In our conversation last Friday, you indicated you had a less than enjoyable experience when you and a friend visited the local Democratic Party headquarters to introduce yourself.
You informed me they asked you why you were running for mayor when they already had a candidate. After your response, they said if you wanted to run for mayor, why didn't you run as a Republican.
In all likelihood, these individuals at the Democratic Party headquarters were volunteers and not speaking on behalf of the local party. Did this experience sour you on politics or make you more determined to run for office?
CS - I am sure they were volunteers and meant no harm. George you called me within 2 hours of me filing at city hall. Impressive by the way. This event happened 2 days after I filed. I introduced myself foolishly thinking my name would spark interest. I thought they would have at least seen my name somewhere by that time, but maybe not.
I am still learning everyday how politics work. As far as souring me on politics no way. I am not running to argue red and blue. I am running because for me the time could not be better. I am running because I believe I have all my neighbors backs and they have mine.
----
GW - I noticed you not only already have a campaign website, you have two of them! One of them is www.simpsonformayor.com and the other is www.mayorsimpson.com.
You mention on one of the websites, you want to cut wasteful city spending. With the national, state and local economy ailing, what would you do to reduce the city budget and in what areas do you feel there has been wasteful spending?
CS - Where is the wasteful spending is the question. I have a copy of the 25 page budget on my desk now. I've been reading it. We have all heard the stories of old fleet vehicles that have too much money put into them to keep them running and than sold at auction for pennies on the dollar. This is where the business man comes in. How much does it cost can we get it cheaper. How can we get it cheaper. There has to be way to slim the budget. With the help of the aldermen it is possible.
----
GW - on the same campaign website, you also mention the need for "Better communication between residents and local businesses with city hall". Share with the voters where this has not worked as well as you would like and what you would propose to help in this area.
CS - Does it say city hall. Supposed to say city agencies. That's what happens when your working full time running for an office and have 2 web sites.That "better communications" come from my experience with building a garage. I was warned by friends that building the garage was easy getting the permit was impossible. It took 7 months to get the go ahead. I meet everybody in the permit office and was on a first name basis with them. It shouldn't be that hard.
My biggest problem was lack of information and a way to get it so I could better understand what was required and expected of the project. This is where I think the Internet could help. If I could have had more access to the information I could have been better prepared.
----
GW - Let's take some time to talk about the proposed annexation of three farms located north of the city. The current administration is presently in the process of approving these annexations and the mayor and board meetings are scheduled to be held prior to the election.
It is likely; these annexations will become an election issue. Some feel it is necessary to add to the city boundaries at this time to plan for the future, while others feel it is premature and the infrastructure is not there to handle the additional growth. What is you position on these annexations?
CS - Curbs and gutters infrastructure. I live very near to the proposed site. Yes my 3 mile commute will be affected. But maybe my taxes will go down a little with the new taxes collected. I don't want Frederick to ever lose it's charm, but growth is coming. I have talked to a lot of people and this is a hot issue.
I have learned the we have a water capacity of 15 million gallons of water a day and we are currently using 6 million gallons. Can we sustain another development? yes. Will the traffic increase? yes. How much can only be estimated. I understand it will probably be voted on before the next Mayor is in anyways. So whoever is next will have to make the best of it.
----
GW - One of the questions I asked the other two Democratic candidates for mayor pertains to the upper level administrative positions in city hall. These positions are often referred to as "at will" positions. They may be replaced by the mayor with the consent of the aldermen.
Have you given any thought to these positions and if elected, would you be making any changes such as hiring a city manager?
CS - City Manager? I thought that was the Mayors job. If I could hire someone who had the experience with Frederick and the knowledge of what has been happening here yes. Information like that would be priceless. Offering someone a job who has the ins and outs of Frederick and could make the transition and continued progress of Frederick easier for all Yes.
----
GW - Voter turnout in city elections has been a concern for me for well over a decade as I have watched the city grow in size while only 30% of the voters participate in the general election.
I have proposed the city election date be changed to coincide with the presidential election year which would result in more than doubling the voter turnout and most likely save taxpayers money. What is your position on changing the city election date to coincide with the presidential election cycle?
CS - I hope to change that 30% this election. I am out there with voter registration cards in my hand. I go to Winchester Hall every other day for more cards. I want the people to actually vote for me not against somebody else. Some of the districts have 15% turn out because they think their vote will not make a difference. I am trying to convince them it will. Changing the cycle could just get a guy with a funny or cartoon like name voted in by accident. I think the timing is fine we just need to get the people to understand how important it is to them, how it directly affects them.VOTE.
We have 32,000 registered voters in a population of almost 60,000.Of those 6,000 are unaffiliated and have no voice in the primaries. I have already registered 30 or more people (all democrat) and will continue to do so. I have always voted since I turned 18. I believe if the people see someone they like they will come out.
----
GW - I want to thank you for being my guest on Air-it-Out with George Wenschhof today. I will be inviting you and the other Democratic candidates to be my guests again prior to the primary election on September 15 and hope you will participate.
At this time, I would like to give you an opportunity for some closing remarks.
CS - I will not be just a west end Mayor. I will not be just a Democratic mayor. I want to be the Frederick Mayor. Win lose or draw I will always be a Fredericktonian. From what I have learned in the less than 2 weeks in politics 1 guy can make a difference. I will be around in politics for a long time. I am proud to be a part of the system and stirring it up. I want people who care about their neighbors and will do anything they can to help. If it is helping you push your car up a hill or lowering your taxes if I can help I will. I am hoping for 5 Aldermen who will work with me. I am trying to meet with all 20 candidates. Together there can be a difference.
Thanks George for the time I gotta go to work. Stop by sometime. Any Frederick residents that want to meet me please check out the web pages for info. Town hall meetings coming soon to the Cellar door downtown and Doc Geisers on the Golden Mile.
--------------------
To receive "Daily Updates" from Air-it-Out with George Wenschhof, click on "Subscribe to this feed" below.
Daily Democratic Wire 7-14-2009
George Wenschhof
Today, President Barack Obama will travel to Warren, Michigan - he will give a speech on education at Macomb Community College. He will talk about his 12 Billion effort to help Community Colleges train and educate our youth. You can read more here.
--------------------
Sotomayor does well on first day of confirmation hearings - the first day was mostly opening statements from Sonia Sotomayor and from Senators on the Judiciary Committee. Today, questioning begins at 9:30 AM ET. Expect equal rights and gun control to be issues of discussion from some Republicans today. TheHill.com has a schedule for the meetings this week and the highlights from yesterday here.
----------------------
Secretary of State Hillary Clinton to make policy speech tomorrow - she will be addressing the Council on foreign relations. Clinton will be discussing the efforts so far by the Obama administration in the area of foreign policy as well as the overall future foreign policy vision. Politico.com has more here.
--------------------
C.I.A. had plans to assassinate al-Qaeda leaders abroad - C.I.A. Director Leon Panetta ended the program upon learning of the existence of it recently. The plans were originally drawn up in 2001 according to a report by the NY Times. The NY Times has more here.
--------------------
House Democrats expected to release their version of health care reform today - the long awaited release will come as the Sotomayor confirmation hearing have the spotlight. However, expect the details of this bill to make the front page tomorrow of the mainstream media. You can read more here.
--------------------
To receive "Daily Updates" from Air-it-Out with George Wenschhof, click on "Subscribe to this feed" below.
City of Frederick, MD Mayoral Candidate Chris Simpson to be Guest Today
George Wenschhof
Beginning at 2:00 PM ET today, Democrat Chris Simpson will be my guest. We will be discussing his entry into the race for Mayor. The other two Democratic candidates for mayor of the City of Frederick, have previously been guests on my website Air-it-Out with George Wenschhof.
My interview with Jennifer Dougherty can be viewed here and my interview with Jason Judd can be viewed here.
The Democratic field of mayoral candidates is now set at three as the July 7 filing deadline has passed. One of these three candidates will be chosen by the voters to be the Democratic party mayoral nominee on September 15; the day of the primary election.
The general election will be held on November 3.
--------------------
To receive "Daily Updates" from Air-it-Out with George Wenschhof, click on "Subscribe to this feed" below.
Monday, July 13, 2009
Daily Democratic Wire 7-13-2009
George Wenschhof
Today, President Barack Obama will meet with twelve union presidents - they will be discussing health care reform and the "Employee Free Choice Act". The latter bill has been stuck in Congress as bipartisan support is lacking - expect the union presidents to urge Obama to openly support the passage of the bill. Meanwhile, health care reform battles continue in Congress. Politico.com has more here.
--------------------
Let the Sotomayor confirmation hearing begin - mid morning today, the Senate Judiciary Committee will begin the Supreme Court Justice confirmation hearings for Sonia Sotomayor. In spite of some Republican opposition, she is expected to win nomination. The hearings begin at 10:00 AM ET and newly sworn in Senator Al Franken (D-Minn.) will be one of the members of the Judiciary Committee asking questions.
The Washington Post is reporting that at least four Republican Senators are expected to publicly express support for Sotomayor today. They are Olympia Snowe and Susan Collins from Maine, Richard Lugar from Indiana and Mel Martinez from Florida. You can read more here.
--------------------
White House office of Urban Affairs to kick off meetings today - throughout the day, mayors, county executives, governors, and heads of agencies will be discussing a national urban policy. Adolfo Carrion, the president of the White House Office says Obama will address the conference tonight. You can read more here.
--------------------
Obama to throw out first pitch in baseball all-start game tomorrow night - let's see if the southpaw can reach home plate. The president is also expected to join game announcers Joe Buck and Tim McCarver in the booth for a couple of innings. A seven minute pregame video will also be played featuring Presidents George W. Bush, George H.W. Bush, Bill Clinton and Jimmy Carter who will be honoring 30 people recognized by MLB and People magazine for service to their communities. Sports Illustrated has more here.
--------------------
Afghanistan election on the horizon - this is one to watch as U.S. supported Afghan President Hamid Karzai may face stiff opposition. Human rights groups and the U.N. have warned that government officials were improperly using their positions to influence the election. The election is August 20 and the winner must receive 50.1% of the vote or balloting continues. Two opponents; Abdullah Abdullah and Ashraf Ghani may force additional balloting.
Afghanistan continues to have poppy as the number one export. Lack of schools, jobs, and hospitals continue to be major problems for the country. MSNBC.com has more here.
--------------------
To receive "Daily Updates" from Air-it-Out with George Wenschhof, click on "Subscribe to this feed" below.
Sunday, July 12, 2009
Daily Democratic Wire 7-12-2009
George Wenschhof
President Barack Obama and family are home from their overseas trip - Russia, Italy and then Ghana. Today, the President has an op-ed in the Washington Post on the economy. You can read it here.
--------------------
CIA Director Leon Panetta says former Vice President Dick Cheney ordered CIA to not disclose to Congress secret counter-terrorism program - the NY Times has the report of this story here. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calf.) has to be saying "and you said what again?".
--------------------
Attorney General Eric Holder close to naming Special Prosecutor in Torture probe - many Democrats in Congress have been clamoring for this for some time. Now, with fresh disclosures from CIA Director Leon Panetta pertaining to concealment of counter terrorism programs, expect this to become a reality. You can read more here.
--------------------
Sonia Sotomayor confirmation hearing begins tomorrow - Senator John Cornyn (R-Tex.) warns his fellow Republicans on how they conduct themselves during the hearings. On "Fox New Sunday" today, Cornyn expresses concern about republicans alienating Hispanics. TheHill.com has more here.
--------------------
To receive "Daily Updates" from Air-it-Out with George Wenschhof, click on "Subscribe to this feed" below.
Saturday, July 11, 2009
Daily Democratic Wire 7-11-2009
George Wenschhof
President Barack Obama meets with Ghana President John Atta Mills - an historic event as Obama is the first African-American U.S. President and this is his first visit to Africa. The choice of Ghana was made partly due to the peaceful and democratic elections which resulted in Mills election to president.
Later, the Obama's will tour Cape Coast Castle, a fort that was used in the slave trade. Reuters.com has more here.
--------------------
House health care reform bill to include tax - the proposed tax is on income over $350,000 per year and is estimated the revenue to be 540 Billion over ten years. A tax on benefits has also been discussed but Leaders in the senate oppose this action. Meanwhile, Blue Dog Democrats have sent a letter to President Obama with their concerns regarding proposed health care reform. MSNBC.com has more here.
The sausage making like process of crafting a bill for health care reform continues. Stay tuned as 47 Americans without health care is unacceptable.
--------------------
Treasury Department sends legislation to Congress for consumer protection on Wall Street - the proposal delivered yesterday, includes greater authority for the Securities Exchange Commission to oversee and establish standards and accountability to those who provide investment advice. Included in the legislation is a provision to pay whistle blowers for information. McClatchydc.com has more here.
--------------------
Secretary of State Hillary Clinton calls for release of Journalists from N. Korea - admitting they illegally entered North Korea, Clinton asked for amnesty for the two Journalists who have been sentenced to 12 years in prison. The Star-Tribune has more here.
--------------------
To receive "Daily Updates" from Air-it-Out with George Wenschhof, click on "Subscribe to this feed" below.
Obama Weekly Address 7-11-2009
George Wenschhof
Today, in his weekly address, President Barack Obama talks about how his proposals will make the economy stronger. Health care reform, actions on energy and creating jobs for the future all will help to get deficits under control. Click on the picture below to watch his speech.
download .mp3 download .mp4 (85.4) read the transcript
Share/Bookmark Sunday Morning "Talking Heads" Guests 7-12-2009
George Wenschhof
Remember to check your local listings for time and channel.
NBC "Meet The Press" - David Gregory will have Senators John McCain (R-Az.) and Chuck Shumer (D-NY). Expect discussion on the exit by Governor Sarah Palin (R-Alaska), health care reform, and the Economic Recovery Act better known as the Stimulus Bill.
The roundtable discussion will include Karen Hughes, Bob Shrum, Andrea Mitchell, and Roger Simon.
ABC "This Week" - George Stephanopoulos welcomes Senators Jon Kyl (R-Az.) and Richard Durbin (D-Ill.) The confirmation hearing for Supreme Court Justice nominee Sonia Sotomayor will receive attention.
The roundtable will include George Will, Cokie Roberts, Donna Brazile, Sam Donaldson, and Bob Woodward.
CBS "Face The Nation" - Bob Schieffer will also be discussing Sonia Sotomayor with his guests Senators Patrick Leahy (D-VT) and Jeff Sessions (R-Ala.).
Fox News Sunday - continuing with the Sonia Sotomayor confirmation hearing theme, Chris Wallace has two more members of the Senate Judiciary Committee; Senators Dianne Feinstein (D-Calf.) and John Cornyn (R-Tex.).
Also appearing will be House Minority Whip Eric Cantor (R-Va.)
CNN "State of The Union" - John King will discuss health care reform and the Obama response to the H1N1 Flu outbreak with HHS Secretary Kathleen Sebelius. Also appearing with be Senators Debbie Stabenow (D-Mich.), Judd Gregg (R-NH), Lamar Alexander (R-Tenn.), and Kent Conrad (D-ND).
CNN "Fareed Zakaria GPS" - Finally, we get discussion on President Obama's trip to Russia as Fareed Zakaria speaks with Russia opposition Leader Boris Nemtsov who quietly met with Obama in Russia.
Also appearing will be Treasury Secretary Timothy Geithner who will be asked how the Stimulus bill is working and what else he intends to do to help the sluggish economy.
--------------------
To receive "Daily Updates" from Air-it-Out with George Wenschhof, click on "Subscribe to this feed" below.
Friday, July 10, 2009
Daily Democratic Wire 7-10-2009
George Wenschhof
Today, President Barack Obama is in Rome - He will be meeting with Pope Benedict XVI. Yesterday, the G-8 agreed to contribute 20 Billion in farm aid to help feed needy nations. Reuters.com has more here.
The President then heads to Ghana where a huge crowd is expected. BBC has more here.
--------------------
Obama says health care reform will happen this year - he offered these comments from L'Aquila, Italy, prior to heading to Rome to meet with the Pope. the president is urging Congress to have a bill out by the end of August. Obama acknowledged reform was not easy due to intense lobbying by special interests who benefit from the current system. Politico.com has more here.
--------------------
Costa Rica President Oscar Arias begins mediation of Honduras situation -yesterday, he hosted separate meetings with ousted Honduran President Manuel Zelaya and interim President Roberto Micheletti. No agreement was reached. You can read more here.
--------------------
GM emerges from bankruptcy after only 40 days - CEO Fritz Henderson says the auto maker will focus on "customers cars, and culture". Makes you wonder, what were they focusing on previously? Let's see how they do now that their massive debt has been eliminated. MSNBC.com has more here.
--------------------
Senator John Ensign (R-Nev.) stays in spotlight as his parents admit they gave his mistress's family $96,000 - a benevolent gift, of course and not to be confused with the term "hush money". I guess the line "what happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas" did not apply in this case. Republicans continue to receive the headlines they do not want. TheHill.com has more here.
--------------------
Illinois Senator Roland Burris (D) will not run for election in 2010 - Democrats had their share of wackiness as the entire former governor rod Blagojevich saga was being played out. Along the way, the Governor appointed Burris to fill the vacant U.S. Senate seat held previously by Barack Obama. Burris is set to announce today, he will not run for election next year. The Chicago Sun-Times has more here. One Democrat to watch in the coming primary, is businessman Chris Kennedy, the son of the late Robert F. Kennedy.
--------------------
To receive "Daily Updates" from Air-it-Out with George Wenschhof, click on "Subscribe to this feed" below.
Thursday, July 9, 2009
Daily Democratic Wire 7-9-2009
George Wenschhof
President Barack Obama still in L'Aquila, Italy as the second day of talks of the G-8 Summit continue - the economy, trade, and the environment continue to be discussed with an agreement reached to lower emissions by 80% by 2050. President Obama will hold a press conference today at 12:30 PM ET. BBC.com has more here.
--------------------
CNN/Opinion Research poll shows Obama with 61% approval rating - this poll was conducted from June 26-28. 70% felt President Obama was a strong and decisive leader. The president did drop 11 points since February of the year on the question that he had a clear plan for solving the country's problems. This poll showed him at 53% and he was at 64% in February. CNN has the poll results here.
--------------------
Today, Vice President Joe Biden will travel to cities in Ohio and NY to promote the Stimulus bill - in the morning, Biden will be in Dayton, Ohio at the American Can Company a development project which will be receiving HUD Community Block Grant funds. He will also travel to Saratoga County, NY in the afternoon. DaytonDailyNews.com has more here.
--------------------
Chair of House Intelligence Committee says CIA mislead Congress - Silvestre Reyes (D-Tex.) says CIA director Leon Panetta told Congress the CIA had mislead and concealed actions since 2001. House speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calf.) said similar things last month and Mr. Panetta issued a statement saying the CIA had not mislead Congress. So stay tuned as more details will surely follow. MSNBC.com has more here.
--------------------
Health Care reform talks continue in Senate - the senate bill has not yet been released from the Senate Finance Committee which has both liberal Democrats and conservative Republicans wondering what it will look like. Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-Nev.) met with some Republican members yesterday to assure them he was looking for a bipartisan bill on heath care reform. TheHill.com has more here.
Remember, since the Democrats used a legislative tactic earlier in regard to the approval of the budget, they can if necessary, can use budget reconciliation as a means to pass health care reform. This would only require a 51 vote majority and not the filibuster proof number of 60.
--------------------
Representative Joe Crowley (D-NY) to head new Democrat Coalition - today, he will assume the chair of this new coalition in the House which is a moderate and pro-business group. Politico.com has more here.
--------------------
To receive "Daily Updates" from Air-it-Out with George Wenschhof, click on "Subscribe to this feed" below.
Crowded Aldermen Field in City of Frederick, MD Election
George Wenschhof
As it is still early and many of the aldermen candidates have not started their campaigning, I want to first take a look at some past results and what happens now. A total of twenty candidates had filed by the 4:00 PM ET deadline of July 7. Eleven were Republicans and nine were Democrats.
The nine Democrats are in alphabetical order; Josh Bokee, John Daniels, David Koontz, Andrew Kotkin, Carol Krimm, Donna Kuzemchak, Michael O'Connor, Kelly Russell and Karen Lewis Young.
The eleven Republicans are; Shelley Aloi, Bill Ashton, George Bauer IV, Robert Cassidy, Joe Cohen, Senitta Conyers, Amanda Haddaway, William Huckenpoehler, Alan Imhoff, and John Shupe.
Interestingly, there is still time for candidates of other recognized political parties in Maryland to file. Stuart Harvey, Elections Director; Frederick County Board of Elections sent me the following " Candidates who are affiliated with another recognized party in Maryland (Green, Libertarian, Independent, or Constitution), may be nominated by their party by August 3, for the November ballot. The party would file the list of nominee(s) with the City. Those who are “unaffiliated” had a May 1 deadline to submit petition signatures of 3% of City voters to get on the Nov. ballot, and that deadline has passed. However, for the first time, the City will allow write-in voting in November."
I point out the alphabetical order as this will be how they appear on the ballot. A candidate who appears at the top of the ballot in a multiple candidate race can sometimes benefit from this placement.
Other things which play havoc with aldermen candidates is many voters do not vote for five aldermen. The under votes in the aldermen election are substantial. So it is important for the candidate to be the first, second or third choice of the voter.
Another little known and rarely used tactic by some candidates is to quietly urge their supporters to just vote for them and no other alderman candidate. This ensures no other candidate is receiving votes from their supporters and as long as they are the second or third choice of the other voters, their odds of winning are increased significantly.
This tactic, also known as "single shot" is rarely used for if it became public knowledge, it would backfire against the candidate.
In the 2005 City of Frederick primary, there were a total of 15 aldermen candidates. 8 were Republican and 7 were Democrats. The City of Frederick website has the results here.
The five aldermen in each political party receiving the most votes on September 15 will move on to the general election.
The primary voter turnout is even lower than the dismal 30% general election voter turnout average. One of the issues to ask these aldermen candidates is their position on moving the city election date to coincide with the presidential election cycle. This will result in more than doubling the voter turnout and also save the city money.
I first broached this issue back in 1997 and more recently requested and received a mayor and board workshop. Unfortunately, incumbent mayor Jeff Holtzinger has not moved this forward to a vote. I have a series of columns on my most recent effort located in the right hand margin of the home page. Take a moment and read them and vote for aldermen and a mayor committed to increasing voter turnout in the city.
Keep in mind, the city population is over 60,000 and registered voters are around 30,000. In the 2005 primary, the Republican receiving the most votes was Paul Smith. His vote total was only 1,531. The fifth place Republican who would move on to the general election was James Joyce who received 990 votes. Alan Imhoff was second with 1,305 votes. Both Imhoff and Smith would go on to win in the general election. Both are also running for reelection this year.
Randy McClement, who is running for Mayor in this election, came in fourth with 1,010 votes. He would finish ninth among the aldermen in the general election with 3,257 votes.
On the Democratic side, Marcia Hall who toyed with the idea of running for Mayor, finished first with 2,638 votes in the 2005 primary as more Democrats than Republicans voted in the primary. Ms. Hall is not running for office in this election. The number two and three finishers in the Democratic primary were David Koontz and Donna Kuzemchak with 2,457 and 2,394 votes. All three would be elected in the general election with Marcia Hall finishing first with 5,430 votes.
It is readily apparent a candidate does not need to receive very many votes with such a low voter turnout. With more candidates running than in 2005, the vote will either be spread out even more or the additional candidates may bring more voters to the polling booth. Unless voter turnout increases, a candidate will be able to move on to the general election with even less votes than the winning primary candidates received in 2005.
Incumbents typically have a name recognition advantage over other candidates and this can give them an edge. Four incumbents; Alan Imhoff (R), Paul Smith (R), David Koontz (D), and Donna Kuzemchak (D) are all running for reelection.
While name recognition has it's benefits, it can also become a detriment if voters want to see a change. In this primary, this is something that remains to be determined. There is extreme dissatisfaction by city voters with the action the mayor and board took in regard to the early retirement buy-out program for city employees. Paying a employee 1-2 years salary to retire early and then hiring them back is not something that is understood by the voters. Whether the voters express this dissatisfaction by not voting for incumbents will be known on September 15.
As I mentioned yesterday, when I was discussing the mayoral candidates, the upcoming vote on three annexations into the city could also easily become a motivating force for voters. If voters do not want these annexations and feel they are premature, this could also be a factor if incumbent aldermen vote in favor and other aldermen and mayoral candidates express their opposition to the annexations.
Another overriding issue will be the perception voters have of the current mayor and board. After, what many felt were four years of bickering between the mayor and board during the 2001-2005 term, the current board of aldermen have been on the most part amenable to requests made by the mayor. However, some have said not enough questioning by aldermen took place over the last four years.
So, being an incumbent running for office can have it benefits but also work against them.
Newcomers have to work on receiving name recognition and with so many candidates that can sometimes be difficult.
Aldermen candidates and the voters also need to keep in mind they are electing a legislative body. The alderman position does not have executive authority.
The city has a charter form of government and voters elect their mayor as the executive. It is also known a s strong mayor form of government which means the mayor is the day to day administrator. The mayor also controls the gavel and as such, the agenda.
The City of Frederick elections have not in the past had publicized "slates" running for office. However, it is important for the voter to examine the position of aldermen candidates on issues and compare them to the positions their choice for mayor has on the same issues. The mayor needs the consent of the aldermen to move their agenda forward.
We have links to all of the Democratic candidate campaign websites located in the right hand margin so please take the time to check them periodically as I am sure they are updated from time to time.
In my next post on the City of Frederick election, I will look at the Democratic candidates for aldermen.
--------------------
To receive "Daily Updates" from Air-it-Out with George Wenschhof, click on "Subscribe to this feed" below.
Wednesday, July 8, 2009
Democratic Daily Wire 7-8-2009
George Wenschhof
Today, President Barack Obama is in Italy - he began the day with a meeting with Italian President Giorgia Napolitano. Then, it is meetings with seven other industrialized nations who make up the G-8. The meetings will be held in L'Aquila which is near Rome and will focus on the global economic crisis and climate change. Time.com has more here.
--------------------
Chinese President Hu Jintao leaves G-8 Summit in Italy to return to China due to the riots in Xinjiang - so far the riots have reportedly resulted in the deaths of over 150 with 1000 injured. Reuters.com has more here.
--------------------
Cost Rica President to mediate Honduran crisis - President Oscar Arias, who won a nobel prize in 1987 for his efforts in brokering an end to civil wars in Central America will mediate the efforts to resolve the leadership question in Honduras. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton made the announcement yesterday after meeting with ousted Honduran President Zelaya. Honduran interim President Roberto Micheletti has also agreed to the mediation. You can read more here.
--------------------
Republicans strategize on how to stop Sotomayor appointment to Supreme Court - the Senate confirmation hearing begins next week and Republican leaders plan to focus on her positions on gun rights and affirmative action. While Sonia Sotomayor will receive flak from some angry Republicans, expect her nomination to be confirmed. Newly sworn in Senator Al Franken (D-Minn.) was appointed to the Senate Judiciary Committee so he will be in the spotlight immediately. Politico.com has more here.
--------------------
Karl Rove testifies in front of House Judiciary Committee - the former White House aid during the George W. Bush administration was grilled on his role in the firing of U.S. attorneys. President Bush had claimed executive privilege in refusing to allow testimony from Rove or White House counsel Harriet Miers. You can read more here.
--------------------
To receive "Daily Updates" from Air-it-Out with George Wenschhof, click on "Subscribe to this feed" below.
City of Frederick, MD Election Update 7-8-2009
George Wenschhof
The field is now set as the filing deadline of July 7 4:00 PM ET for candidates in the City of Frederick election has now passed.
While several last day filings did occur, there were no major surprises. Republicans and Democrats will each field three candidates for Mayor. There are a total of 20 alderman candidates; 11 Republican and 9 Democrats. The City of Frederick website has a list of all the candidates here.
The last day filings included incumbent aldermen Alan Imhoff (R) and David "Kip" Koontz(D). Also filing on the last day were two Republican candidates for aldermen; Shelley Aloi and Robert Cassidy. Ron Tobin (R) who is currently the executive assistant to Mayor Jeff Holtzinger (R), filed for mayor. I had heard rumors of this for the last month but was unable to verify.
Before I get into discussing the candidates, I want to say a quick thank you to Kari Melvin (hope I have the spelling correct) who works at city hall and provided me with the updated list of candidates. I stopped by twice; once around noon and at the end of the day - both times she quickly provided me with an updated list.
Also, during the day, I was contacted by NBC 25 reporter Jackie Cutler who wanted to interview me on the city elections. She had been receiving the daily updates from my site and wanted to hear my take on the upcoming election. My half hour interview in front of city hall after cutting and splicing, resulted in about ten seconds of fame on air as she interviewed a handful of individuals and reported on the last minute filings.
You can watch her report by clicking here and then clicking on the picture of city hall. It was the first time I had met Ms. Cutler and I found her to be very professional and well informed in regard to the local political scene.
Today, I will discuss the candidates for mayor. Tomorrow, I will discuss the aldermen candidates. On the Democratic side, I see Jennifer Dougherty and Jason Judd pretty much tied at this point, ten weeks from the September 15 primary election. The Democrat newcomer to the race; Chris Simpson has his work cut out for him. However, I found he had some interesting points in my brief telephone conversation with him after he filed last Thursday.
Mr. Simpson spoke of the decline of the neighborhoods off Route 40 (Golden Mile) and the need for a greater police presence. Depending on how the mainstream media treats him, he could, as a local born and raised city of Frederick man, catch on with some voters.
A local columnist, upon learning of Mr. Simpson's entry into the race, contacted me and asked me if I felt this would aid the Dougherty campaign. I did not feel Mr Simpson, as a present political unknown would aid either the Judd or Dougherty campaign. Instead, I felt he would draw equally from both which could prove to be interesting.
I plan to meet with Mr. Simpson on Thursday and will interview him live online as I did with Ms. Dougherty and Mr. Judd. Stay tuned and I will keep you informed when the interview will take place.
Jennifer Dougherty continues to go door to door daily as she campaigns to win reelection, while Jason Judd, who works in D.C. does not have the time to do so. While his support from former Mayor Ron Young is helpful, most people I talk to do not know Mr. Judd.
Dougherty signs have begun popping up everywhere of late, while the number of Judd signs appear to be unchanged from when they first appeared.
What the overriding issue will be for voters in this election is still to be determined. The early retirement buy-out debacle instituted by Mayor Holtzinger with consent of the alderman, continues to be the number one issue resulting in a head scratching exercise by city voters. Why pay someone 1-2 years of salary and then hire them back is hard to swallow for the everyday working man and woman.
Reduction in crime and safety is always of concern to voters which is why early remarks from newcomer Chris Simpson should not be dismissed.
Maintaining a satisfactory level of services to city residents while experiencing lean and difficult economic times will also certainly be a challenge for the incoming administration. In this area, Mr. Judd has a economics degree and Ms. Dougherty during her previous administration has written and had approved four annual city budgets.
The current administration has indebted the city at a record amount by acquiring land for a future park, finalizing a water agreement with questionable terms, and indebting the city for future infrastructure improvements including the now "infamous" jobs pathway road extension.
All of which will need to be paid for while city property values have decreased in values. This will result in less income for city services.
The annexation of additional land into the city at this point could become an election issue. Three farms known as the Summers, Crum and Thatcher farms have been brought forward for city mayor and board approval. They all appear to be premature as thousands of unbuilt units exist within the city boundaries at present.
One statement which has been attributed to Mayor Holtzinger by some is he feels the annexations are needed to pay for the cost of the water agreement. If true, the statement makes little sense. Planned reasonable growth takes into account the many factors impacted by increased development. The fact that the city entered into a water agreement does not automatically dictate additional land needs to be annexed into the city.
How the incumbent aldermen vote on these annexations and how the other candidates running for office weigh in on these annexations could easily become a issue of importance to the voters who are already tired of congested roads and overcrowded schools. However, if candidates oppose these annexations, they will have to move fast as the city mayor and board meetings have been scheduled.
The Republican field for mayor also grew by one when Ron Tobin filed to join Clint Hoffman and Randy McClement. Incumbent Mayor Jeff Holtzinger added confusion to the Republican effort by first being noncommittal to his intention to run, then filing to run for reelection, and finally withdrawing from the race.
Mr. Hoffman, a owner of a local towing business is the long shot. Mr. McClement began by being the only Republican candidate for mayor who had the support of state delegate Rick Weldon (I-3b). The rumor that Mayor Holtzinger would not file for reelection was strong, only to be dashed when he filed papers to run, making the incumbent mayor the favorite in the Republican primary. Holtzinger followed with his withdrawal from the race. This action was reminiscent of his supporter, former Mayor James Grimes who did the same thing only to refile for election in the 2001 election. Grimes would lose that election to Jennifer Dougherty. Will Holtzinger change his mind and refile? - doubtful.
So that leaves Ron Tobin, often referred to as "Darth Vader" or the "Grim Reaper" of city hall as the other Republican candidate for mayor. He was first hired by mayor James Grimes and was replaced during the Dougherty administration. Mr. Grimes was an early supporter of Holtzinger and upon his surprise election in 2005, Mr. Tobin reappeared at city hall.
Tobin will be competitive in the Republican primary due to support he will receive from the Grimes and Blaine Young camp. However, he is one who received the early buy out and was hired back by the mayor which hardly makes any sense whatsoever. Expect him to be clobbered with this.
Mr. McClement is the best qualified to win the Republican nomination due to his involvement with various city boards and commissions, including the update of the city charter. Randy has also attended many city mayor and board meetings. However, due to the support that will be given to Tobin, McClement will need to become more active and step it up in his campaign efforts to win the Republican nomination on September 15.
Tomorrow, I will discuss the aldermen candidates.
--------------------
To receive "Daily Updates' from Air-it-Out with George Wenschhof, click on "Subscribe to this feed" below.
Tuesday, July 7, 2009
Daily Democratic Wire 7-7-2009
George Wenschhof
President Barack Obama continues successful visit to Russia - yesterday, after staff had prepared the groundwork, Presidents Medvedev and Obama agreed to further reductions of nuclear arsenals in both countries. Also agreed upon was the use of Russian airspace by the U.S. in transporting supplies to Afghanistan. Today, Obama met with Russian Prime Minister Putin and former President Gorbachev. Time.com has more here.
--------------------
Violent clashes continue in Xinjiang, China - the rioting has resulting in 156 reported deaths and 1000 injured. This is a western region of China where ethnic and economic differences between Muslim Uigurs and Han Chinese run deep. It also happens to be an area where there are oil reserves. Stay Tuned. The NY Times has more here.
--------------------
Zelaya to meet with Secretary of State Clinton today - after being denied reentry into Honduras, the ousted Honduran Leader is back in the U.S. and scheduled to meet with Hillary Clinton today. Yesterday, President Obama called for Zelaya to be reinstated and to allow the people to determine who their leader will be. Zelaya was forcibly removed from office over a disagreement pertaining to presidential term limits. Stay tuned. Reuters.com has more here.
--------------------
U.S. Hospitals agree to share cost of health care reform - an agreement was reached to spend 155 Billion over the next ten years toward the cost of insuring 47 uninsured Americans. The American Hospital Association, the Federation of American Hospitals, and Catholic Health Association have all agreed to help. Vice President Joe Biden is expected to make the announcement. This agreement, along with the Pharmaceutical industry participation will give President Obama's health care reform a boost. The Washington Post has more here.
--------------------
S.C. Republicans vote to Censure Sanford - last night, after three rounds of balloting, the vote was 22 for Censure, 10 for Resignation and 9 supporting the Governor. Looks like the S.C. Governor has survived his recent disappearance and dalliance with a woman in Argentina. Politico.com has more here.
--------------------
Franken to be sworn in today - finally, the Senator from Minnesota will be sworn in at noon today by Vice President Joe Biden. Al Franken has asked they use the family Bible of the late Minnesota Senator Paul Wellstone. You can read more here.
--------------------
To receive "Daily Updates" from Air-it-Out with George Wenschhof, click on "Subscribe to this feed" below.
Monday, July 6, 2009
Daily Democratic Wire 7-6-2009
George Wenschhof
President Barack Obama is in Moscow meeting with Russian President Medvedev - let's see if the face to face meeting results in a agreement to further reduce the nuclear weapons held by both countries. A press conference is scheduled for 10:30 AM ET. The Washington Post has more here.
--------------------
Deposed President Manuel Zelaya unable to land in Honduras - Zelaya attempted to return yesterday after he had been forcibly removed from office and flown out of the country and replaced with interim President Roberto Micheletti. However, the military had placed vehicles on the runway, making it impossible to land. Zelaya's plane finally landed in El Salvador. Time.com has more here.
--------------------
In China, 140 rioters have been killed in Xinjiang - a northwest region of China where culture differences and economic development has led to unrest. Keep an eye on this region in China. Reuters.com has more here.
--------------------
Former Defense Secretary Robert McNamara dies - at the age of 93 in his sleep at home. He served during the Viet Nam war under the Kennedy and Johnson administrations from 1961-1968. MSNBC.com has more here.
--------------------
GM ok'd to sell assets to U.S. government - federal judge Robert E. Gerber of the U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Southern district of New York issued his ruling yesterday. In part, the ruling allows for the sale of some assets to the U.S. Treasury. The Wall Street Journal has more here.
--------------------
House and Senate back from July 4th break, take up annual spending bills - the House has already approved 4 of the 12 annual spending bills which fund government departments and the Senate intends to have all 12 approved prior to October 1 when the next fiscal year begins. Interestingly, this has not been done by Congress prior to the new fiscal year since 1994. TheHill.com has more here.
--------------------
Illinois Attorney General Lisa Madigan being urged to run for Senate - this would be a Democratic primary challenge to Roland Burris. Burris is who filled the vacant Senate seat left by Barack Obama when he was appointed by former Governor Rod Blagojevich. However, she may be interested in running for Governor against fellow democrat Pat Quinn who replaced Blagojevich. Quite the merry-go-round. Politico.com has more here.
--------------------
To receive "Daily Updates" from Air-it-Out with George Wenschhof, click on "Subscribe to this feed" below.
Sunday, July 5, 2009
Daily Democratic Wire 7-5-2009
George Wenschhof
President Barack Obama and First Lady will have a busy week coming up - they fly to Russia tonight where the President will hold a meeting with Russian President Dimitry Medvedev. Meetings with Prime Minister Putkin and former President Gorbachev are also planned.
Tuesday evening, they are off to Rome for meetings with the G-8 and also a private meeting with President Napolitano, the Holy Father and the Vatican Secretary of State.
Friday morning, they are off to Accra, Ghana where the president is scheduled to give a speech on development and democracy in Ghana before heading home.
Press conferences will be held daily so expect plenty of news on this trip. WhiteHouse.gov has more on the trip here.
--------------------
Vice President Joe Biden on ABC "This Week" this morning - always known to be good for several good sound bites, the vice president did not disappoint. Time.com already has some excerpts from his conversation with George Stephanopoulos. On how the Stimulus Bill is working, click here., on Israel/Iran and U.S. relations, click here, and how the U.S. is committed on withdrawal from Iraq click here.
---------------------
Marion Barry arrested for stalking a woman - weirdness appears to transcend political party. The former mayor and current D.C. council member was arrested and charged with misdemeanor stalking and released. You can read more here.
--------------------
Senator Chris Dodd (D-Conn.) receives support from Kennedy in his bid for reelection - Dodd's polling numbers have been low ever since revelations pertaining to favorable mortgages he received came out. The chair of the Senate Finance Committee and the one who has taken Senator Edward Kennedy's role in spearheading health care reform has also received the support of the president. Kennedy, who is suffering from incurable brain cancer, taped a television ad for Dodd. While, this will help Dodd in his reelection bid next year, expect the possibility of a change here. Politico.com has more here.
--------------------
To receive "Daily Updates" from Air-it-Out with George Wenschhof, click on "Subscribe to this feed" below.
Saturday, July 4, 2009
Daily Democratic Wire 7-4-2009
HAPPY 4TH OF JULY!!
Today, President Barack Obama returns from a one day trip to Camp David - his daughter Malia turns 11 today and yesterday she had a party with twenty of her girl friends at the presidential retreat. Picnicking on the White House lawn with staff and military families is on the agenda tonight as well as watching the fireworks.
--------------------
Will Sanford follow Palin out the door? - yesterday, Governor Sarah Palin announced she would be resigning as Governor.
In case you missed it, you can watch her speech here.
I watched the entire announcement last night on MSNBC and it was totally disjointed and filled with poorly used basketball jargon and a ridiculous reference to a statement used by General MacArthur during WWII. Hard to see how this prepares her for a run for the Republican nomination for president in 2012. I also found myself laughing throughout as I was constantly reminded of Tina Fey. Reuters.com has more on her planned resignation here.
Obama Weekly Address 7-4-2009
George Wenschhof
Today, in his weekly adddress to the nation, President Barack Obama spoke of the history America has in overcoming challenges. He addressed the need for a clean energy economy, health care reform and the need to revitalize our education system. He promised not to leave these problems for the next generation to solve. Click below to hear his speech.
download .mp3 download .mp4 (47.0) read the transcript
Share/Bookmark Sunday Morning "Talking Heads" Guests 7-5-2009
George Wenschhof
Remember to check your local listings for time and channel.
NBC "Meet The Press" - will not air due to coverage of Wimbledon.
ABC "This Week" - George Stephanopoulos interviews Vice President Joe Biden in Iraq. U.S. troops withdrew from towns and cities earlier this week. This is part of the overall timetable agreement with Iraq for U.S. withdrawal from the country. Biden also had an opportunity to meet with his son Beau who is serving in Iraq.
The roundtable discussion will include George Will, Liz Cheney, Cynthia Tucker, and Matthew Dodd. Paul Krugman will also give his take on the current status of the economy.
CBS "Face The Nation" - Bob Schieffer will have Admiral Mike Mullen, the chair of the Joint Chiefs of Staff.
Also appearing are Senators Charles Schumer (D-NY) and Charles Grassley (R-Iowa). Expect health care reform to be discussed as Grassley is opposed to a public option and Schumer supports this option.
Fox News Sunday - Admiral Mike Mullen also appears with Chris Wallace on this 4th of July weekend.
More discussion likely on health care reform and the recent affirmative vote (219-212) in the House on the energy and climate bill. House Majority Leader Steny Hoyer (D-Md.) is who was responsible for counting those positive votes. He appears along with House Minority Leader John Boehner (R-Oh.) who has been the leading voice for "No" by Republicans by anything proposed by the Obama administration.
CNN "State of The Union" - John King interviews former Secretary of State Colin Powell. Early teaser excerpts from the interview have Powell questioning the numerous items on the Obama administration agenda. Powell, a Republican, endorsed Barack Obama prior to the election last year.
CNN "Fareed Zakaria GPS" - British Foreign Secretary David Miliband is his guest today and expect the discussion to surround the recent election in Iran. British embassy staff were detained by Iran after Britain issued statements expressing their concern as to the legitimacy of the election.
--------------------
To receive "Daily Updates" from Air-it-Out with George Wenschhof, click on "Subscribe to this feed" below.
Friday, July 3, 2009
Daily Democratic Wire 7-3-2009
George Wenschhof
Today, president Barack Obama will head to Camp David - to celebrate his daughter Malia's 11th birthday. She was able to invite 20 of her girlfriends to join her. Tomorrow, the president will return to D.C. and host a barbecue at the White House for military and White House staff with their families. The Chicgao Tribune has more here.
--------------------
Russia to agree to allow U.S. to ship weapons across their borders to Afghanistan - next week when President Obama meets with Russian President Dimitry Medvedev an agreement is expected to be signed. You can read more here.
--------------------
Vice President Joe Biden meets with General Ordierno in Iraq - this is the second day of the Vice President's visit that comes as the U.S. military has withdrawn from cities in Iraq as part of the agreed up timetable for complete withdraw. ThePage.Time has more here.
--------------------
OAS Chief Insula visits Honduras - The Organization of American states has opposed the removal of President Zelaya and installation of Roberto Michelleti as interim President. Jose Miguel Insula will meet with leaders of Honduras Supreme Court and Congress but not Michelleti. There are rumors interim president Michelleti would be willing to conduct an election in the near future. You can read more here.
--------------------
Back in California, the state began issuing IOUs due to their inability to reach a budget agreement - the state with the worst credit rating in the country is issuing IOUs to creditors. Included is 53.3 million to people owed income tax returns. McClatchydc.com has more here.
--------------------
Bankruptcy Judge to decide on sale of GM soon - the hearing has concluded and the judge will be making a determination of the sale of on some assets to a group led by the US Treasury. Bloomberg.com has more here.
--------------------
To receive "Daily Updates" from Air-it-Out with George Wenschhof, click on "Subscribe to this feed" below.
Thursday, July 2, 2009
Simpson Joins Mayoral Race for City of Frederick, MD
George Wenschhof
Chris Simpson makes the third Democrat to file for Mayor of the City of Frederick. The other Democrats to file are Jennifer Dougherty and Jason Judd. Randy McClement and Clint Hoffman are the two Republicans who have filed to run for Mayor.
Mr. Simpson is a born and raised resident of the city and is currently the owner of the family business; Golden Mile Liquors located off Route 40.
At the age of 40, he has seen many of the changes the city has gone through and wants to address the concerns of the every day working man and woman. He readily admits he is not a politician kind of guy, but rather one who wants to make decisions that are best for the city as a whole.
His Treasurer is John Junkins who is a close friend and adviser. He realizes there is just ten weeks to go until the primary on September 15 and intends to go after it hard; meeting and talking with voters while listening to their concerns.
I will be sitting down with Mr. Simpson next week to learn more about his positions on various issues and will have him as my guest live online in the near future.
The deadline for filing for office in the City of Frederick election is July 7.
--------------------
To receive "Daily Updates" from Air-it-Out with George Wenschhof, click on "Subscribe to this feed" below.
Daily Democratic Wire 7-2-2009
George Wenschhof
President Barack Obama will head to Russia next week - He will visit with Russian President Dimitry Medvedev in Moscow. Dimitry has said it is time to set aside differences and work together on global problems. Reuters.com has more here.
--------------------
Today, the President will meet with leaders of small and large businesses at the White House - afterward, the president will make some remarks concerning jobs and innovation. Politico.com has more here.
--------------------
Meanwhile, unemployment jumps to 9.5% with 467,000 jobs lost in June - this is the highest unemployment has been since 1983. Bloomberg.com has more here.
This is troubling as unemployment traditionally drops over the summer months due to seasonal job opportunities. The Stimulus Bill will come under increased scrutiny as jobs are not being created fast enough. My early career was as a employment and training director and their is currently the need for public service employment programs. In the late 70's, when unemployment was this high, I was writing grants and administering programs totaling 4 million annually in Frederick County, Maryland. The quickest way to put people back to work is through public service types of programs.
--------------------
Revised Health Care Plan submitted by Senators Kennedy and Dodd - in a joint letter from Edward Kennedy (D-Mass.) and Chris Dodd (D-Conn.), the new plan is estimated to cost 611.4 Billion over ten years by the Congressional Budget Office. This is down from the 1 Trillion estimated by the CBO on the original plan. It still includes a government run insurance option and adds a $750 fee per worker to companies that do not provide coverage. Time.com has more here.
--------------------
Maloney to run against Hillibrand in NY Democratic Primary - this continues the saga surrounding the replacement of Hillary Clinton's Senate seat. Kirsten Hillibrand with backing from the Clintons secured the appointment from NY Governor David Paterson. However, this was after many public bumblings from the Governor in regards to interest of the seat from Carolyn Kennedy and NY States Attorney Andrew Cuomo. Many democrats view Hillibrand as way too conservative and are excited to see NY Representative Carolyn Maloney will be entering the race. Maloney is expected to make a formal announcement in two weeks. MSNBC.com has more here.
--------------------
John Sununu says he won't run for Senate in 2010 - it had been rumored he would seek a return to the Senate when Senator Judd Gregg (R-NH) announced he would not seek reelection. Gregg's appointment to Obama's cabinet was short lived and he decided against running for reelection. Speculation is state attorney general Kelly Ayotte will be the favorite to win the Republican nomination for the seat. Representative Paul Hodes is presently the only Democrat running for this Senate seat. TheHill.com has more here.
--------------------
To receive "Daily Updates" from Air-it-Out with George Wenschhof, click on "Subscribe to this feed" below.
Wednesday, July 1, 2009
Daily Democratic Wire 7-1-2009
George Wenschhof
Today, President Barack Obama will attend a town hall in Annandale, Virginia to discuss health care - He will also be answering some questions submitted via Facebook, Twitter and YouTube. The Washington Examiner has more here.
--------------------
Vice President Joe Biden begins Rural American "Listening Tour" - today in Wattsburg, Pennsylvania Biden will be joined by Secretary of Commerce Gary Locke and Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsak. It is expected one of the areas to be discussed today is how to increase broadband services in rural areas. The NY Times has more here.
--------------------
Yesterday, the Minnesota Supreme Court declared Al Franken the winner in the U.S. Senate race - finally, eight months following the election in November 2008, the state of Minnesota will have two Senators on Capitol Hill. Republican Norm Coleman conceded shortly after the supreme court released their 5-0 decision. The election had approximately 2.9 million votes and Franken won by 312 votes. The Democrats now have a filibuster proof majority in the Senate. They reach the magic number of 60 by counting Independent Senators Joe Lieberman (Conn.) and Bernie Sanders (Vt.) who both caucus with the Democrats. TheHill.com has more here.
--------------------
McCain and Feingold place a hold on Obama nomination to Federal Elections Commission - the nomination of labor lawyer John Sullivan has been placed on hold by Senators Russ Feingold (D-Wisc,) and John McCain (R-Ariz.). They are the two Senators who teamed up for campaign finance reform and are unhappy with the current status of the FEC. Politico.com has more here.
--------------------
Time for Republican Governor Mark Sanford (SC) to resign? - he continues to step in his own .... as a AP interview yesterday revealed additional indiscretions by the Governor. Unfortunately for the Republicans, S.C. Lt. Governor Andre Bauer has his own issues. The Washington Post has more here.
--------------------
Interim Honduras President Roberto Micheletti says he will not step down - the United Nations and the Organization of American States are pressuring Micheletti to allow the return of President Manuel Zelaya. The Honduran constitution only allows for a single term for their President and it is alleged Zelaya added a last minute and illegal amendment to the ballot allowing him to run again. It was this action that led to his ouster from the country. Zelaya has vowed to return on Thursday. Stay tuned. MSNBC.com has more here.
--------------------
To receive "Daily Updates" from Air-it-Out with George Wenschhof, click on "Subscribe to this feed" below.
