Democratic News 4-26-2009

George Wenschhof Bio

President Barack Obama continues to monitor developments as outbreak of swine flu spreads - the world health organization met yesterday to review what is known after over 60 reported deaths in Mexico with over 1000 with the flu. Another 8 cases have been reported in the U.S. with more likely to be identified. It is transmitted by person to person and as a new strain, there is concern for a possible pandemic. President Obama, who recently visited Mexico shows no sign of the flu. CNN.com has more here.

The White House will hold a press conference at 12:30 PM ET to brief the public - Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano and Acting Director Dr. Richard Besser of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention will give an update. Read more here.

Representative Eric Massa (D-NY) calls on government to close border with Mexico - he is a member of the House Homeland Security Committee. TheHill.com has more here.

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Secretary of State Hillary Clinton arrives in Beirut, Lebanon - in another surprise visit following her visit to Iraq. This time it was to meet with President Michel Suleiman and show the support of the U.S. prior to elections in six weeks. The opposition coalition vying for power is the Hezbollah backed by Syria and Iran. Rueters.com has more here.

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Obama budget on track for approval by Wednesday - House and Senate versions appeared to have been reconciled with approval coming by the day President Obama gives his national address to the nation which marks the 100th day of his administration.

It also appears Democratic leaders have agreed to use the parliamentary procedure known as budget reconciliation to fast track approval of the health care plan proposed by the president. Republicans would not be able to filibuster the bill and a simple majority vote of 51 would be needed for passage in the Senate. Bloomberg.com has more here.

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Washington Post/ABC News poll shows Obama with 69% approval rating - the poll was conducted April 21-24 and shows the president continues to be popular among the voters at the 100 day mark in his administration. Obama received a 2-1 advantage over Congressional Republicans on how he was handling the economy and international affairs.

Areas to watch would be any future White House action in regard to the harsh interrogation techniques used on some detainees during the former George W. Bush administration. Here, poll respondents were split almost 50-50. The growing size of the deficit and aid to automakers were other areas of concern identified in the poll. MSNBC.com has more here.

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