Democratic Chatter 1-5-2009

George Wenschhof Bio

President-elect Barack Obama to meet with Congressional leaders today - as his daughters start their new school and the family spends it's first full day in Washington D.C. - He plans to discuss his economic recovery plan. Time.com has more here.

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New Mexico Governor Bill Richardson (D) withdraws his name for Commerce Secretary - he withdrew his nomination due to an ongoing investigation pertaining to a "pay-to-play" situation involving a California firm and the state of New Mexico awarded contract. Politico.com has more here.

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Virginia Governor Tim Kaine to chair Democratic National Committee (DNC) - Howard Dean will step down as of January 21, the day after Barack Obama is sworn into office. Kaine who supported Obama during the campaign will be a part time director until his term of Governor expires in 2010. TheHill.com has more here.

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Six Candidates vying for chair of the Republican National Committee to debate today in D.C. - the candidates include current chair Mike Duncan, Ken Blackwell, Michael Steele, Katon Dawson, and Chip Saltsman. CNN.com has more here.

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Israel continues ground offensive in Gaza - the death toll is now close to 500 with an additional 2500 injured. It is reported that Hamas continues to fire rockets into Israel. Meanwhile French President Sarkozy continues to negotiate for a cease-fire. The NY Times has more here.

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