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Wednesday, June 30, 2010

Daily Political Wire 6-30-2010

George Wenschhof

Today, President Obama heads to Racine, Wisconsin to hold economic town hall meeting -
This is a continuation of the tag-team effort with Vice-President Joe Biden called "Recovery Summer". Unfortunately, for the president, the effort so far is falling short with consumer confidence at it's lowest sine February and the Dow Jones falling 270 points yesterday. Unemployment continues to hover at 10%. AP has more here.

Results are needed more now than speeches as the mid term elections near.

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Wall Street Reform bill forced back to reconciliation committee - concessions lead to likely passage by end of the week -
Senator Scott Brown (R-Mass.) became a "No" vote after learning the 19 billion bank fee had been included in the final legislation. With the passing of Senator Byrd (D-W.Va.), Democrats did not have the 60 votes needed to end a planned filibuster.

Democratic leadership caved and removed the 19 billion bank fee, replacing it with 11 billion from the 2008 TARP (bail-out) bill and a slight increase of fees paid by banks to the F.D.I.C.
Passage is expected by the House tomorrow and then the Senate with the bill on the president's desk prior to the 4th of July weekend. The Boston Globe has more here.

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Democrat Senators Mary Landrieu (La.) and Frank Lautenberg (NJ) battle over succeeding the late Senator Byrd chair position -
the subcommittee is Homeland Security and oversees FEMA. TheHill.com has more here.

Democratic Leaders are leaning toward Lautenberg and Landrieu is objecting saying she has more seniority. The position would be interim chair as the senate will reorganize in January 2011 after the mid term elections.

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President Obama brought up in Rod Blagojevich Corruption Trial -
the former Illinois Governor's trial promises to be interesting to follow. A former Union Leader; Tom Balanoff testified President Obama had personally asked him to mention Valerie Jarrett to Governor Blagojevich as a replacement for his vacant Senate seat. Politico.com has more here.

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White House Schedule

From: http://thepage.time.com/

The Political Schedule

*all times Eastern

Wednesday, June 30

    • 9:30 am
    • President Obama receives the presidential daily briefing
    • 10:00 am
    • President Obama meets with senior advisers
    • 11:00 am
    • President Obama departs the White House en route Andrews Air Force Base
    • 11:15 am
    • President Obama departs Andrews Air Force Base en route Racine, Wisconsin
    • 1:00 pm
    • President Obama arrives in Racine, Wisconsin
    • 1:00 pm
    • Vice President Biden attends an event for senatorial candidate Lee Fisher in Cleveland, Ohio
    • 2:15 pm
    • President Obama holds a town hall meeting on the economy
    • 4:15 pm
    • President Obama departs Racine, Wisconsin en route Andrews Air Force Base
    • 5:55 pm
    • President Obama arrives at Andrews Air Force Base
    • 6:10 pm
    • President Obama arrives at the White House

Tuesday, June 29, 2010

Daily Political Wire 6-29-2010

George Wenschhof

Today, President Obama will try to build consensus for Energy/Climate bill -
he has invited 23 Senators to the white House for discussions. Senator Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.) will not be attending. He withdrew his support for a bill he and fellow Senators John Kerry (D-Mass.) and Joe Lieberman (I-Conn.) had introduced when he learned the president might move immigration reform in front of their bill. Reuters.com has more here.

With the BP Deepwater Horizon oil spill still gushing into the Gulf, energy/climate legislation is now front and center.

The president also has lunch and a meeting with Suadia Arabia King Abdullah. The NY Times has more here.
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Vice President Joe Biden to head to Gulf -
He will visit New Orleans, Louisiana and Pensacola, Florida with a press conference scheduled for afternoon. You can read more here.

Drilling of relief wells continue and weather permitting, the hope is they will be completed by sometime in August which would finally stop the never ending flow of oil into the ocean.

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Kagan Hearings continue -
Republicans continue to attack Elena Kagan without much success. Expect her to win confirmation to the Supreme Court, but by a narrow filibuster proof margin with only a few Republicans in support - which has become the Republican Party standing operating procedure during the Obama administration. MSNBC.com has more here.

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Supreme Court rules against City of Chicago right to ban handguns -
once again following ideological lines, the court in a narrow 5-4 decision, ruled in favor of "the right to bear arms" under the 2nd amendment.

This comes after a similar decision overturned handgun ban legislation in the District of Columbia in 2008.

Politico.com has a good read here on how Democratic Party leadership feels this now takes the issue off the table as an issue in the upcoming mid term elections. You can read it here.

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General David Petraeus confirmation hearing begins today. He is expected to receive quick approval -
you can watch live beginning at 9:30 AM.

Visit msnbc.com for breaking news, world news, and news about the economy


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White House Schedule

From: http://thepage.time.com/

The Political Schedule

*all times Eastern

Tuesday, June 29

    • Morning
    • Vice President Biden travels to New Orleans, Louisiana
    • 9:30 am
    • President Obama receives the presidential daily briefing
    • 10:00 am
    • President Obama receives the economic daily briefing
    • 10:50 am
    • President Obama meets with Senators to discuss energy and climate legislation
    • 11:00 am
    • Vice President Biden visits the Unified Area Command in Louisiana, receives briefing, tours facility
    • 12:00 pm
    • President Obama receives a briefing on the BP Deepwater Horizon oil spill
    • 1:00 pm
    • Vice President Biden visits Pomes Seafood, meets with gulf residents, makes a statement to the press
    • 1:05 pm
    • President Obama has a working lunch with King Abdullah of Saudi Arabia
    • 2:10 pm
    • President Obama holds a meeting with King Abdullah of Saudi Arabia
    • 2:30 pm
    • Press Secretary Gibbs delivers briefing
    • 3:40 pm
    • President Obama meets with members of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus
    • 5:30 pm
    • Vice President Biden visits Naval Air Station Pensacola, makes a statement to the press

Monday, June 28, 2010

Daily Political Wire 6-28-2010

George Wenschhof

Supreme Court justice Nominee Elena Kagan begins Confirmation Hearings today -
expect the Republican Senators to attack her in areas of gun control, campaign finance reform and a woman's right to choose. Yesterday, Senator John McCain was noncommittal when he appeared on NBC "Meet The Press". He added he was troubled by her stance against allowing military recruiters on campuses. The vote is likely to be closer than one would want, but Kagan should be confirmed. The Washington Post has more here.

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Longest Serving Senator; Robert Byrd (D-W.Va.) passes away -
His ideology evolved from that of being a member of the Klu Klux Klan in his early life to being opposed to the U.S. involvement in Iraq in 2003. He opposed the civil rights Act in 1964 and also opposed the voting Rights Act of 1965. Time.com has more here.

His vote in the Senate will be missed immediately by Democrats as the Wall Street reform bill just reported out of conference committee will be a very close vote in the Senate.

West Virginia Governor Joe Manchin (D) will appoint the successor. Chris Cillizza of the Washington Post is reporting state Democratic Chair Nick Casey is a possible replacement.

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G-20 Meetings produce little results -
continued discussion took place on the implementation of tougher global rules on financial institutions, but no rules were adopted. Meetings are to be held again in November of the year with a goal of adopting changes by 2012. However, even then, banks will have up to five years to abide by the changes. The NY Times has more here.

Also agreed upon was a lofty goal of reducing deficits of countries by 50% by 2013. Spirited debate took place between the U.S. and the Obama administration who believe continued stimulus is needed and those who wish to reduce deficits, TheHill.com has more here.

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Vice President Joe Biden continues "Recovery Summer" Tour -
aimed at highlighting the success of the 800 billion Stimulus bill, Biden will travel to Louisville, Kentucky to visit a GE manufacturing facility. You can read more here.

Unless, nationwide employment figures drop prior to the mid term elections, expect the Stimulus bill to be touted as a huge failure by the Democrats and the Obama administration.

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Sunday morning "Talking Heads" highlights -
In case you missed them, Politico.com has a quick review below.


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White House Schedule

From: http://thepage.time.com/

The Political Schedule

*all times Eastern

Monday, June 28

    • Morning
    • Vice President Biden travels to Louisville, Kentucky
    • 11:00 am
    • President Obama receives the presidential daily briefing
    • 11:00 am
    • Vice President Biden delivers remarks on Recovery Act at GE Appliances & Lighting headquarters
    • 12:30 pm
    • Vice President Biden attends event for Rep. Baron Hill in Jeffersonville, Indiana
    • 2:00 pm
    • President Obama receives the economic daily briefing
    • 2:30 pm
    • President Obama meets with senior advisers
    • 6:00 pm
    • Vice President Biden attends event for senatorial candidate Chris Coons

Sunday, June 27, 2010

Daily Political Wire 6-27-2010

George Wenschhof

Yesterday, after the G-20 meetings, President Obama met with leaders of China, South Korea, and Britain -
Afghanistan was discussed with Britain and trade was discussed with s. Korea. Chinese President Hu Jintao has accepted a state visit to the U.S. on a date to be determined. Time.com has more details here.

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Israel U.S. Ambassador Michael Oren talks about how countries are drifting apart - Politico.com is reporting, he briefed senior Israel diplomats recently to inform them of changes in relationship. He also said that while access to the White House was good, President Obama had a tight rein on his immediate advisers and referred to him as a one-man show.

This will certainly receive more press as President Obama's decision making process is under scrutiny with the Gulf coast BP oil tragedy and the firing of General McChrystal.

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Saturday, June 26, 2010

Daily Political Wire 6-26-2010

George Wenschhof

Today, President Obama is attending G-20 Meetings in Toronto -
discussions continue with the leaders of the largest economies in the world. Disagreement exists as to when and how much to cut back public spending. The NY Times has more here.

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Sunday morning "Talking Heads" lineup -
expect the conversations to be centered on the firing of General Stanley McChrystal and the hiring of General Petraeus, the Wall Street Reform bill reported out of conference committee, the G-20 meetings and of course, the BP oil spill in the Gulf.

NBC "Meet The Press" - Senator John McCain (R-Az.)

CBS "Face The Nation" - Senators Pat Leahy (D-Vt.), Jeff Sessions (R-Ala.) and Carl Levin (D-Mich.).

ABC "This Week" - C.I.A. Director Leon Panetta

CNN "State of The Union" - Senators John Cornyn (D-Tex.), Robert Menendez (D-NJ), Saxby Chambliss (R-Ga.), and Jack Reed (D-R.I.).

Fox News Sunday - Senators Dianne Feinstein (D-Calf.), Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.), former Arizona Governor Mike Huckabee, and Liz Cheney.

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President Obama to press for Energy/Climate bill -
with two large legislative initiatives almost passed ( health care and financial reform), the president wants a comprehensive energy bill this session as well.

The horrific BP oil spill in the Gulf highlights the need for a new U.S. energy policy. The president will invite a bipartisan group of Senators to the white House next Tuesday to discuss. TheHill.com has more here.

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Organizing for America (OFA) Begins Voter Registration Effort -
they have developed a great online source of information for voters, regardless of the state in which they live. information is there for early voting, voting registration and primary election dates as well as the reminder of November 2 General Election Day. Click here: http://www.RaiseYourVote.com to get started.


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White House Schedule

From: http://thepage.time.com/

The Political Schedule

*all times Eastern

Saturday, June 26

    • 9:00 am
    • President Obama participates in the G-8 working session
    • 11:45 am
    • President Obama departs Muskoka en route Toronto, Canada
    • 12:35 pm
    • President Obama arrives in Toronto, Canada
    • 2:15 pm
    • President Obama holds a bilateral meeting with Prime Minister Cameron of the United Kingdom
    • 3:15 pm
    • President Obama participates in a bilateral meeting with President Lee of the Republic of Korea
    • 4:15 pm
    • President Obama participates in a bilateral meeting with President Hu of the People's Republic of China
    • 7:15 pm
    • President Obama, First Lady arrive at the Fairmont Royal York
    • 7:30 pm
    • President Obama attends the G-20 working dinner

Obama Weekly Address 6-26-2010

George Wenschhof

President Obama asks Congress to move quickly on passage of the Wall Street Reform bill which just emerged from the House/Senate conference committee. He said the bill contains 90% of what he was asking for; the creation of an independent consumer finance protection agency, enactment of the "Volcker Rule" which prohibits Banks from investing in risky trades, and tougher rules on the trading of derivatives.


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Friday, June 25, 2010

Daily Political Wire 6-25-2010

George Wenschhof

President Obama is off to Canada to attend the G-20 meetings -
most important will be the discussion surrounding the world economy. Disagreement exists as to how much governments should cut public spending and how fast.

In particular, German Chancellor Angela Merkel has stated Germany will continue to cut public spending which have some economists worried their action may prompt a downturn in the world economy. The Washington Post has more here.
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House-Senate conference Committee agree on Wall Street Reform bill - compromises were reached in the so called "Volcker provision" and the Derivatives amendment put forth by Senator Blanche Lincoln.
Politico.com has a good read here.

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Finance Disclosure Act narrowly passes House, passage in Senate uncertain -
Representative Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.) effort to counteract the 5-4 Supreme Court decision "Citizens United barely passed the House with 36 Democrats opposing and only two Republicans voting in favor. The vote was 219-206. The NY Times has more here.

The bill calls for corporations and unions to disclosure spending on political campaigns and prohibits them from coordinating spending with political parties or candidates.

Progressive Democrats were upset over recent amendments allowing exclusion of the NRA and other organizations and felt the bill wasn't strong enough. Passage in the Senate will not be easy as Republicans are sure to filibuster.

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Third time not the charm for extension of Unemployment benefits -
Senate Democrats failed for the third time to pass a 100 billion extension of unemployment benefits which would have added another 33 billion the the deficit. It is unlikely Senate Democrats will try again.

The vote was 57-41 with Robert Byrd (D-W.Va.) and Lisa Murkowski (R-Al.) absent. Senator Ben Nelson of Nebraska was the only democrat to vote no. TheHill.com has more here.

For some time, I've been calling for a federally funded public service employment program that would put the unemployed to work. it's way past time to implement this program.

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White House Schedule

The Political Schedule

*all times Eastern

Friday, June 25

    • Morning
    • Vice President Biden travels to Milwaukee, Wisconsin
    • 8:50 am
    • President Obama departs the White House en route Andrews Air Force Base
    • 9:10 am
    • President Obama departs Andrews Air Force Base en route Toronto, Canada
    • 10:30 am
    • President Obama arrives in Toronto, Canada
    • 11:20 am
    • President Obama arrives in Muskoka, Canada
    • 12:15 pm
    • President Obama attends the G8 working lunch
    • 1:30 pm
    • Vice President Biden attends event for Sen. Russ Feingold
    • 2:00 pm
    • President Obama, G8 leaders take a G8 family photo
    • 2:45 pm
    • President Obama participates in G8 Session with African Outreach Leaders
    • 4:45 pm
    • President Obama participates in a G8 working session with African Outreach Leaders and Expanded Outreach Leaders
    • 5:45 pm
    • President Obama, G8 leaders, African outreach leaders, extended outreach leaders take a G8 family photo
    • 7:30 pm
    • President Obama, G8 leaders meet with My Summit 2010 Youth
    • 7:45 pm
    • President Obama attends the G8 working dinner
    • 9:15 pm
    • President Obama attends the G8 working dinner

Thursday, June 24, 2010

Daily Political Wire 6-24-2010

George Wenschhof

Today, President Obama turns to foreign policy -
as he has meetings at the white House with Russian President Dimitry Medvedev and Israel Foreign Minister Ehud Barak. The focus with Medvedev will be on improving U.S./Russia trade. Reuters.com has more here.

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NBC/WSJ poll shows declining approval for Obama -
only 45% said the approved of the job the president was doing, down 5 points from last month. 62% responded they felt the country was moving in the wrong direction and 48% said they disapproved of the job performance of the president.

As to congress and which political party should control, the vote was even with 45% preferring Republicans and 43% Democrats. MSNBC.com has more here.

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Firing of McChrystal shifts focus from BP oil spill to Afghanistan -
President Obama was able to take advantage of General Stanley McChystal's lapse of judgement and turn it into a situation where the president was seen as taking the right action and showing strong leadership. Strong leadership was what Obama was being accused of lacking in his actions surrounding the BP Gulf oil spill - a big reason for the favorable poll drop posted above.

The swift nomination of General David Petraeus, who is sure to gain rapid Senate confirmation, was a a great political as well as military decision. Now, Petraeus is on the hot seat in Afghanistan, where U.S. involvement has been going poorly. Politico.com has a good read on what to do for in regard to success in Afghanistan here.

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House set to vote on campaign finance bill today -
Representative Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.) has been working on this bill ever since the Supreme Court issued it's narrow 5-4 "Citizens united" decision allowing unlimited campaign donations from corporations. TheHill.com has more here.

The law would provide disclosure of campaign expenditures by corporations and unions to their members. To garner Republican support, Van Hollen accepted a amendment which would exempt the NRA, leading to more organizations being added to the list.

This has angered progressives, so House passage is not guaranteed and the Senate promises to be a challenge as well.

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Wall Street Reform bill vote today? -
it continues to be a struggle in conference committee as bank lobbyists have worked hard to water down the bill. Senator Blanche Lincoln (D-Ark.) and her legislation on derivatives is being attacked hard and she has not signaled any room to negotiate. Two Democratic Senators have already said they will vote against the bill, because it is not strong enough. This is putting added pressure on conference chairs Senator Chris Dodd (D-Conn.) and Representative Barney Frank (D-Mass.). You can read more of the intrigue here.

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Former Vice President Al Gore's turn for sexual misconduct story -
CNN.com is reporting today a story about a license massage therapist who accused the former vice president in 2006 of "unwanted sexual contact". The alleged incident occurred in October 2006 at a hotel in Portland, Oregon. No charges were filed as police were unable to substantiate the claim. In January 2007, after police were unable to interview the woman, police were informed by her attorney they were pursuing civil litigation and declined their assistance. CNN.com has more here.

Wonder if this has anything to do with the announcement by Al and Tipper Gore recently that they were separating. Stay tuned....

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White House Schedule

From: http://thepage.time.com/

The Political Schedule

*all times Eastern

Thursday, June 24

    • 9:30 am
    • President Obama receives the presidential daily briefing
    • 10:30 am
    • President Obama holds bilateral meeting with President Medvedev
    • 11:00 am
    • President Obama, Vice President Biden hold an expanded bilateral meeting with President Medvedev
    • 1:45 pm
    • President Obama holds a joint press conference with President Medvedev
    • 2:15 pm
    • Vice President Biden hold a planning meeting with members of the Middle Class Task Force
    • 3:05 pm
    • President Obama attends the U.S.–Russia Business Summit with President Medvedev
    • 3:45 pm
    • Vice President Biden meet with Israeli Defense Minister Ehud Barak

Wednesday, June 23, 2010

Daily Political Wire 6-23-2010

George Wenschhof

General Stanley McChrystal meets with President Obama -
we should all know shortly the fate of the general. Some are calling for him to be fired for his critical remarks toward the president and vice president appearing in the article in Rolling Stone. President Obama left the door open for him to stay yesterday when he stated to reporters the action he takes will be in the best interest in the security of our nation.

Senator Byron Dorgan (D-N.D.) is among Democratic leaders calling for Obama to fire McChrystal. CNN.com has more here.

Interestingly, later today, the top advisers on the Afghanistan war will meet at the white House to discuss strategy. Presumably, McChrystal will attend. The Afghanistan war continues to be a quagmire for the U.S. and little positive results have been accomplished since the surge in troops.

Stay tuned...

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New Orleans Federal Judge blocks ban on deep water drilling -
in response, Interior Secretary Ken Salazar will issue a new order imposing a moratorium on deep-water drilling. The White House will also appeal Judge Martin L.C. Feldman's decision. The NY Times has more here.

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Haley wins easily in S.C. primary -
no big upsets in the primaries and runoffs held yesterday. Incumbent Bob Inglis (R-S.C.) is the third House incumbent to lose in the primary so far this year as Trey Gowdy easily won their runoff election.

Democrat Elaine Marshall easily beat Cal Cunningham in the North Carolina primary and will face Senator Richard Burr. AP has more on the race here.

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Mexico joins federal lawsuit challenging Arizona Immigration law -
claiming policy initiatives per state undermines American foreign policy. Arizona receives 65,000 visitors from Mexico daily who spend 7.35 million per day. First Read has more here.

One more reason for Congress to act on comprehensive immigration reform.

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White House Schedule

From: http://thepage.time.com/

The Political Schedule

*all times Eastern

Wednesday, June 23

    • 11:35 am
    • President Obama meets with his national security team on Afghanistan and Pakistan
    • 1:10 pm
    • President Obama has lunch with Senators
    • 2:50 pm
    • President Obama, First Lady attend the President's Council on Physical Fitness and Nutrition Event
    • 3:00 pm
    • Vice President Biden delivers remarks at the Parade All-America High School Service Team event
    • 4:30 pm
    • President Obama, Vice President Biden meet with Secretary of State Clinton
    • 5:00 pm
    • President Obama meets with senior advisers
    • 5:30 pm
    • President Obama meets with winners of the Jefferson Awards for Public Service

Tuesday, June 22, 2010

MDP Chair Susan Turnbull Guest on "All Things Political with George Wenschhof"

George Wenschhof

I am pleased to have Maryland Democratic Party Chair; Susan Turnbull as my guest on the premier of "All Things Political with George Wenschhof". The show will air weekly on Mondays right here on my website. In addition to local, state and federal elected officials, my guests will include candidates for office and community activists.

I thoroughly enjoyed my conversation with Ms. Turnbull. It is easy to see why she is in the position she is in as she is both well informed and very likable. During the show, Ms. Turnbull talks about the upcoming elections in the state of Maryland and the Maryland coordinated campaign. She goes on to discuss races they have targeted such as the Maryland 1st Congressional district where Democratic incumbent Frant Kratavil will likely face Republican Andy Harris.

My next guest will be Frederick County, Maryland Sheriff Chuck Jenkins (R) and the following week my guest will be Frederick County, Maryland Board of Commissioners President Jan Gardner (D).

We hope you enjoy the program. We also want to hear feedback and suggestions from you. If you have a comment you would like to share with us, please leave it by clicking on "Comment" below or by sending me an email at GeorgeWenschhof@gmail.com

To schedule an appearance on the show, place an advertisement or send a donation to help pay for production costs, also email me at GeorgeWenschhof@gmail.com




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Daily Political Wire 6-22-2010

George Wenschhof

Obama's newest problem is General Stanley McChrystal -
the man in charge of the U.S. wars. Problems between the two were apparent when discussion was taking place on whether to ratchet up the war in Afghanistan or take a different approach. McChrystal leaked his internal report asking for up to 60,000 additional troops. After months of meeting with advisers, President Obama announced a "surge" in troops up to 30,000 and a withdrawal date of summer 2011.

Now, the General is at it again, slamming the President and his advisers in an article in Rolling Stone which you can read here. Not exactly what the President wanted to get the attention off the ever flowing oil into the Gulf.

Differences between Generals and Presidents have occurred before in U.S. history. Most noticeable was General Patton and President Dwight Eisenhower during World War II and Douglas MacArthur by President Harry Truman during the Korean War.

Now, it's McChrystal who has been summoned to the White House for a talk with Obama. Let's see if McChrystal survives this latest flap. You can read more here.

McChrytal has issued a public apology which you can read here. However, it may be too late. The war in Afghanistan continues to go poorly as the U.S. tries to prop up a corrupt government led by President Hamid Karzai.

Stay tuned.......

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White House Budget Director Peter Orzag to resign -
the unofficial rumor is the resignation will be effective in July. This would be the first of President Obama's cabinet to leave, if you do not count White House counsel Greg Craig. Reportedly, he was pushing for more deficit reducing measures while others continue to push for more stimulus, The NY Times has more here.

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House Majority Leader Steny Hoyer (D-Md.) to announce they will not pass budget blueprint this year -
he is expected to say more in a speech to a think tank entitled "The Third Way". Instead, a budget enforcement resolution will be passed by the House.

The excuse for avoiding passing a budget blueprint is waiting for the recommendations offered by the bipartisan "Budget Reduction Commission" due in December. TheHill.com has more here.

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Ehrlich for Governor campaign uses former television reporter in campaign -
Republican Robert Ehrlich, the former one term Governor of Maryland is trying to recapture his position this year. To help the campaign, he has hired Andy Barth a long time Baltimore television reporter to tape "Reporter Segments" which will be aired on social media used by the Ehrlich for Governor campaign. The Washington Post has more here.

That's one way to may sure reporting says what you want it to say

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White House Schedule

From: http://thepage.time.com/

The Political Schedule

*all times Eastern

Tuesday June 22

    • 7:45 am
    • Vice President Biden hosts breakfast meeting with SecState Clinton at the Naval Observatory
    • 9:30 am
    • President Obama, Vice President Biden receive the presidential daily briefing
    • 11:00 am
    • Vice President Biden holds event to introduce the government's intellectual property enforcement strategy
    • 11:15 am
    • President Obama attends a meeting with health insurers and state insurance commissioners
    • 11:45 am
    • President Obama delivers remarks regarding the ongoing effort to implement the new law and the new benefits it affords to families across the country
    • 12:20 pm
    • President Obama, Vice President Biden have lunch
    • 12:30 pm
    • Press Secretary Gibbs delivers briefing
    • 1:35 pm
    • President Obama meets with senior advisers
    • 3:15 pm
    • President Obama meets with Secretary of Defense Gates
    • 4:00 pm
    • President Obama holds a Cabinet meeting, Vice President Biden also attends
    • 6:00 pm
    • President Obama, Vice President Biden attend remarks at an LGBT Pride Month event, President Obama delivers remarks

Monday, June 21, 2010

Daily Political Wire 6-21-2010

George Wenschhof

Today, President Obama hosts a Father's Day mentoring barbecue at the White House -
he will also deliver a speech on the importance of fatherhood at the Arts Recreation Center. The Washington Post has more here.

It Vice President Biden's turn to hit the road promoting the Stimulus bill projects as he head to Michigan to tour a battery manufacturer. Bloomberg.com has more here. On his way back to D.C. Biden will attend a fundraiser for Illinois Senate candidate Alexi Giannoulias. Real Clear Politics has more on his trip to Illinois here.

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Gallup poll shows Republican voters more enthusiastic about mid term elections than ever -
the poll showed 59% of Republicans and Republican leaning Independents to be enthusiastic about the upcoming mid term elections. This is the highest level for the Republicans since 1994 when they won majority of the House.

Democratic voters meanwhile, registered at 44% down from 50% in 2006 when they won majority of the House. Gallup.com has more here.

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More primaries and runoff elections tomorrow -
In South Carolina, Nikki Haley has a runoff for the republican nomination for Governor. She is facing Gresham Barrett who she beat earlier by 20 points but failed to reach 50% of the vote. Both Sarah Palin and mitt Romney have endorsed Haley with Romney even donating $40,000 - the reason? - S.C. is positioned as the third or fourth primary in the 2012 presidential election - think they want Haley's endorsement? - You bet ya.

In North Carolina, Democrats will decide their senate candidate between Cal Cunningham and Elaine Marshall. Over in Utah where Republican incumbent Senator Bob Bennett lost in the state convention, voters will decide between Tim Bridgewater and Mike Lee. TheHill.com has more here.

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In case you missed the Sunday morning "Talking Heads", Politico.com has some highlights below.


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Nebraska town to vote on new immigration laws -
the voters in Fremont will decide on a law which would ban the hiring of undocumented workers and also make it illegal to rent property to them. This continues to show the frustration that is out there among Americans in regard to immigration and the lack of enforcement. MSNBC.com has more here.

Hiring of illegal immigrants is already violating existing federal law, but is not enforced. The Obama administration is making noises they will challenge Arizona's new Immigration law. What is needed is a new comprehensive Immigration reform federal law that includes a pathway to citizenship for illegal immigrants already in the U.S., the development of a universal ID card, and stricter enforcement of our borders.

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White House Schedule

From: http://thepage.time.com/

The Political Schedule

*all times Eastern

Monday, June 21

    • Morning
    • Vice President Biden travels to Midland, Michigan to discuss Recovery Act
    • 10:15 am
    • President Obama delivers remarks at a Father's Day Event
    • 10:30 am
    • Vice President Biden visits Dow Kokam battery manufacturer
    • 12:15 pm
    • President Obama hosts a Father's Day Mentoring Barbeque at the White House
    • 1:00 pm
    • Press Secretary Gibbs delivers briefing
    • 1:30 pm
    • Vice President Biden attends event for Congressional candidate Dan Seals
    • 3:00 pm
    • Vice President Biden attends event for Senatorial candidate Alexi Giannoulias
    • 3:45 pm
    • President Obama receives the economic daily briefing
    • 4:15 pm
    • President Obama meets with senior advisers

Sunday, June 20, 2010

Daily Political Wire 6-20-2010

George Wenschhof

Yesterday, President Obama and Treasury Secretary Timothy Geithner announced China had agreed to greater exchange flexibility for the yuan - the Obama administration had been pushing for this for some time as the Chinese currency had been kept artificially low for quite some time in the global market. the announcement comes prior to meetings with the G-20 next week. TheHill.com has more here.

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Senator Claire McCaskill (D-Mo.) hopeful for vote to end secret holds in Senate - a senate rule which evolved over the years allowing a member to block a nomination by the president from coming to a vote. McCaskill sent a letter to Senate Majority Leaders Harry Reid with 67 signatures of Senators requesting a vote on the rules to end the practice. Republicans have used this procedure to block dozens of President Obama's nominees. The NY Times has more here.

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Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac
continue to lose billions - the mortgage companies were taken over when the economy tanked. Originally created to help spur home lending, the mortgage giants would buy mortgages from banks and lending institutions allowing them to to then offer more loans.

The defaults continue to be staggering and over the first three months of this year there was a foreclosure action every 90 seconds, leading to an astounding 163, 828 homes the government owned by the end of March. The Congressional Budget Office estimates the total cost to government will be 389 billion. MSNBC.com has more here.

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Success in Afghanistan remains elusive for U.S. -
appearing on CNN "State of the Union", U.S. Senators Dianne Feinstein (D-Calf.) and Richard Lugar (R-Ind.) remain committed to U.S. troops remaining in Afghanistan.

Feinstein sounding somewhat like the Nixon administration and the Pentagon during the Viet Nam war, said we can't afford to allow the Taliban to take over Afghanistan for Pakistan would be next. CNN.com has more here.

Lugar said it would hard to define success as there has been no benchmark established. However, he remained committed to the U.S. training of Afghanistan military. CNN.com has more here.

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Saturday, June 19, 2010

Daily Political Wire 6-19-2010

George Wenschhof

As one would expect, Democrats seize on Barton's apology to BP and air ad -
the ad calls on Republicans to stop apologizing to big oil and warns that if Republicans retake the House, Representative Joe Barton (R-Tex.) would be in charge of the probe into the BP oil spill. The Washington Post has more here.



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Sunday morning "Talking Heads" lineup -
expect a lot of discussion on the continuing BP Deepwater Horizon oil spill and some talk on the upcoming mid term elections.

NBC "Meet The Press" - Ken Feinberg - he was named the independent arbitrator for determining awards from the 20 billion BP escrow fund. He previously handled claims for families of the victims of 9/11. Also appearing will be senator Mary Landrieu (D-La.), Governor Haley Barbour (R-Miss.), Representative Ed Markey (D-Mass.), and John Hofmeister, former president of Shell oil Co. Hofmesiter has been critical of the BP response to the Gulf coast oil spill.

CBS "Face The Nation" - Senators Richard Shelby (R-Ala.) and Bill Nelson (D-Fla.) and Representative Anh "Joseph" Cao (R-La.)

ABC "This Week" - White House Chief of Staff Rahm Emanuel - a whole range of topics can be expected to be discussed ranging from the ongoing investigation of the BP oil spill, to challenging the state of Arizona's new immigration law. Somewhere along the way, the U.S. and the Obama administration relationship with Israel will be brought up for discussion.

As Emanuel is the only guest, other lingering questions are where and when will 9/11 mastermind Khalid Sheikh Mohammed be tried and will it be a civilian or military trial. ..and by the way, how about an update on the U.S. closing of Guantanamo Bay prison.

CNN - "State of The Union" - Senators Dianne Feinstein (D-Calf.), Richard Lugar (R-Ind.), Joe Lieberman (I-Conn.) and Lisa Murkowski (R-Al.). Murkowski recently offered up an amendment which was defeated which would have prohibited the Environmental Protection Agency from regulation emissions.

Fox News Sunday - their favorite weekly guest Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) and Defense secretary Robert Gates.

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Representative Chris Van Hollen's (D-Md.) bill delayed -
this was offered to close the floodgates opened by the recent Supreme Court "Citizen's United" ruling on campaign financing - he offered amendments which would exclude long standing organizations such as the NRA and now his fellow Congressmen are taking another look at the bill. TheHill.com has more here.

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More papers released from Supreme Court nominee Elana Kagan -
another 11,000 pages of memos from her time working in the Clinton administration. Senator Pat Leahy (D-Vt.) says the Obama administration has been the most open administration in providing information on a nominee. Kagan also counseled President Clinton during some of the scandals that erupted during his time in office. Some of these memos have been not been released to the press, but were given to the Judiciary committee. President Obama wants Kagan confirmed by the end of august so she can participate in the fall session of the Supreme Court. MSNBC.com has more here.

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Obama Weekly Address 6-19-2010

George Wenschhof

Today, President Obama fires away at the Republican Party by calling them obstructionists and asking them instead to begin working together on solving the problems facing Americans. He points out Republican Leaders in Congress are blocking bills which would retain jobs for teachers and police, Financial Reform, the removal of the current limit of 75 million cap on oil companies for damages they cause, and the appointment of 136 important administrative positions in government.


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Friday, June 18, 2010

Daily Political Wire 6-18-2010

George Wenschhof

President Obama travels to Columbus, Ohio today -
as I reported earlier, the president will begin a "Recovery Summer" six week tour to highlight the effects of the 800 Billion Stimulus bill. Today, in Columbus, they will celebrate the groundbreaking of the 10,000th roads project funded through the bill. CNN.com has more here.

As I have also said earlier, the Obama administration and Democrats facing mid term elections in the fall also need the unemployment numbers to drop.

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BP Escrow fund administrator to meet with Gulf state Governors -
Kenneth Feinberg will first meet today with the Governors of Mississippi and Louisiana. On Tuesday, he will meet with the Governors of Florida and Alabama. Feinberg will be the independent administrator of the disbursement of the 20 Billion Escrow account BP will set up to handle claims. The NY Times has more here.

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Republican comments aid public perception view of Obama's handling of the BP oil spill crisis -
just when Republicans were benefiting with the perception by the public on the president's actions following what will be the largest environmental disaster to ever hit the nation. Politico.com has more here.

Following the president's address to the nation on the oil spill and the announcement by BP chairman a 20 Billion escrow would be established and administered by a independent third party, Congress began hearings on the spill.

Republican Representative Joe Barton (R-Tex.) began his questioning with an apology to BP and saying what Obama did was the same as a "shake down". Hardly a position the voters feel at this moment and Barton's statement showed little empathy for the working men and women whose lives depend on the Gulf.

In a matter of minutes, Representative Barton took the eyes of the voters from questioning Obama's response to the spill to wondering why Republicans just don't get it.

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Cap and Trade climate provisions make not make it in Energy bill being drafted -
moderate and liberal Democrats continue to battle each other as they have in the passing of the Stimulus bill, health care and now financial reform.

At issue is the requirement of a reduction of carbon emissions which is included in legislation submitted by Senators John Kerry (D-Mass.) and Joe Lieberman (I-Conn.). TheHill.com has more here.

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South Carolina win by Alvin Greene upheld by state Democratic Party -
Vic Rawl and his campaign appealed his embarrassing double digit primary loss to a candidate who raised no money and did not campaign for the U.S. Senate seat.

The state party said they were not given sufficient information or proof of wrong doing for them to overturn the election results and hold another election. MSNBC.com has more here.

Alvin Greene will now face Republican incumbent Jim Demint in the fall General Election.

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Afghanistan prepares to open bidding on mineral deposits valued at 3 Trillion -
the NY Times earlier reported on the huge deposits of valuable minerals that have been discovered in the country. Time.com has more here.

The first bidding will be on iron ore deposits. Afghanistan has one of the most underdeveloped economies in the world with the growth of poppy the main agricultural crop. Poppy is the number one export and is used to make heroin.

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White House Schedule

From: http://thepage.time.com/

The Political Schedule

*all times Eastern

Friday, June 18

    • 10:15 am
    • President Obama departs the White House en route Andrews Air Force Base
    • 10:30 am
    • President Obama departs Andrews Air Force Base en route Columbus, Ohio
    • 11:00 am
    • Vice President Biden holds event to discuss government waste, fraud and abuse
    • 11:40 am
    • President Obama arrives in Columbus, Ohio
    • 12:05 pm
    • President Obama tours Recovery Act Highway Project site
    • 12:15 pm
    • President Obama delivers remarks on the economy
    • 12:55 pm
    • President Obama departs Columbus, Ohio en route Washington, DC
    • 2:00 pm
    • President Obama arrives at Andrews Air Force Base
    • 2:15 pm
    • President Obama arrives at the White House
    • 2:45 pm
    • President Obama meets with senior advisers
    • 4:30 pm
    • President Obama meets with Marine Corps Commandant Nominee General James Amos

Thursday, June 17, 2010

Daily Political Wire 6-17-2010

George Wenschhof

Yesterday, Maryland Governor Martin O'Malley (D) made it official and filed for reelection -
he was joined by enthusiastic supporters as he and Lt. Governor Antony Brown walked from Maryland Democratic Party headquarters to the Elections office. Prior to heading inside to sign the necessary paperwork, he gave a short speech to the supporters on the importance of moving Maryland forward. The Baltimore Sun has more here.

He and Lt. Governor Anthony Brown were introduced by the chair of the Maryland Democratic Party Susan Turnbull. Earlier in the day, Ms. Turnbull was my guest on the premier of my new video political talk show "All Things Political with George Wenschhof". The taped show will air here on my website within the next couple of days. So, check back and tune in!

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BP agrees to 20 Billion Escrow Fund -
after meeting with President Obama yesterday, BP chairman Carl-Henric Svanberg announced the creation of the fund. It was also announced that it would be headed by Kenneth Feinberg, who managed the 9/11 compensation claims fund. Unfortunately, Svansberg when making his announcement, used the phrase "BP wanted to help the small people" - a phrase not likely to go over well. MSNBC.com has more here.

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Today, President Barack Obama and Vice President Joe Biden kick off "Recovery Summer" -
a six week push to highlight the jobs created through the Stimulus bill. The president or an administration official will travel to two dozen locations. Tomorrow, Obama will be in Columbus, Ohio for the groundbreaking of the 10,000 Recovery Act roads project. Politico.com has more here.

This is a good move to pivot away from the ongoing problems associated with the oil spill in the Gulf. However, what is needed to get voters attention that the program is working is a reduction in the unemployment rate over the next six weeks.

AP is reporting unemployment claims rose by 12,000 last week after three weeks in decline which is not a good sign as we enter summer when seasonal job opportunities typically reduce unemployment claims. You can read more here.

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South Carolina Democratic Party to hear complaint on Alvin Greene's primary win today -
Vic Rawl, his Democratic opponent for U.S. Senate will present his case today. The state Elections Commissions said it will not investigate the vote. The Democratic Party could decide to hold a new election. Greene raised no cash, did not campaign and won easily over Rawl who campaign across the state. The Democratic nominee will face incumbent Republican Jim Demint. TheFix.com has more here.

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White House Schedule

From: http://thepage.time.com/

The Political Schedule

*all times Eastern

Thursday, June 17

    • Morning
    • Vice President Biden meets with former British PM Tony Blair at the Naval Observatory
    • 10:00 am
    • President Obama receives the presidential daily briefing
    • 10:30 am
    • President Obama receives the economic daily briefing
    • 11:00 am
    • President Obama receives BP Deepwater Horizon oil spill briefing
    • 11:35 am
    • President Obama meets with the Veterans of Foreign War's New Commander in Chief Tommy Tradewell
    • 11:45 am
    • Rep. Boehner holds briefing
    • 2:00 pm
    • Press Secretary Gibbs delivers briefing
    • 2:25 pm
    • President Obama meets with Secretary of the Navy Mabus
    • 2:45 pm
    • President Obama meets with senior advisers
    • 3:15 pm
    • President Obama meets with Sec. Geithner
    • 3:45 pm
    • President Obama meets with Sec. Clinton
    • 4:30 pm
    • President Obama meets with Marine Corps Commandant Nominee General James Amos