George Wenschhof
Another Democrat Faces Ethics Charges - this time it is Representative Maxine Waters (Calf.) who may face trial by the Ethics committee. At the time of the Bank Bailout (TARP) bill, she arranged meetings with minority owned banks to be sure they were recipients of federal aid. the Washington Post has more here.
One of the banks involved which did receive funds was OneUnited Bank, on which her husband served on the Board of Directors and owned $500,000 of shares in the bank. Stay tuned....
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No charges to be filed against Al Gore - the Portland, Oregon district attorney office said there was insufficient evidence stemming from sexual assault charges made from a massage therapist. The incident allegedly occurred back in the fall of 2006. Among the information which came to light was the National Enquirer paid the woman for her story. TPM.com has more here.
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Internal memo on pathways to Citizenship blasted by Republicans - instead of using the current mood of the public to engage in a thorough debate on immigration reform. At issue is an internal memo from the USCIS United States Citizenship and Immigration Services, which discusses administrative ways to grant citizenship to illegal immigrants. Politico.com has more here.
Members of Congress from both sides of the aisle would be better served by entering a national conversation on immigration reform to include strengthening borders, issuing a tamper proof ID card, updating current immigration procedures and agreeing on a pathway to citizenship for the estimated 12 million illegal immigrants within the country. the pathway to citizenship should include at least 1000 hours of community service and learning English within a two year period.
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Saturday, July 31, 2010
Daily Political Wire 7-31-2010
Obama Weekly Address 7-31-2010
George Wenschhof
Today, President Obama speaks about the comeback of the auto industry and the success of the government intervention and financial support of GM. GM is not posting profits and is on line to hold a public offering this fall and repay the government in full the loans provided to them.
The president goes on to criticize Republicans for continuing to be obstructionists with their recent 58-42 filibuster vote to block aid for small businesses which would create jobs across America.
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Sunday morning "Talking Heads" Lineup for 8-1-2010
George Wenschhof
Expect debate and discussion on the information provided by www.Wikileaks.org on the United States foreign policy in regard to Afghanistan/Pakistan. The stunning disclosure that Pakistan intelligence agencies have been aiding the Taliban in their efforts against the United States in Afghanistan will feed the discussion.
Congress will be taking their August recess shortly with the Senate the last to leave on Thursday evening. Republicans have stuck with their obstructionist action in using an unprecedented number of filibusters and just saying "No" to whatever legislation the Democrats propose, including a Democratic sponsored bill to aid small business. Aid for states for help with Medicaid and teacher layoffs is another bill languishing in the senate.
Other topics will be the confirmation vote on Supreme Court Justice nominee Elena Kagan that will take place on Thursday, the gutting of the Arizona immigration law by a federal law, the dismal economy, the upcoming Representative Charles Rangel (D-NY) Ethics Trial, whether a watered down energy bill has any success in passing before the recess and speculation on the outcome of the upcoming mid term elections.
Sure to get some mention is the legislative theatrics which took place in the House and resulting Republican opposition to a bill providing health care to the first responders of 9/11 who have suffered debilitating illnesses as a result of their efforts on that day.
NBC "Meet the Press" - Former Federal Reserve chair Alan Greenspan - see if he repeats what he said earlier about supporting allowing the former George W. Bush administration tax cuts for the wealthy to expire.
Admiral Mike Mullen, chair of the Joints Chief of Staff who will surely add his comments to the AfPak leaks. New York City mayor Mike Bloomberg, and Governor Ed Rendell (D-Pa.).
ABC "This Week" - House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calf.) and Defense Secretary Robert Gates. Will the Rangel Ethics trial hurt the Democrats? Expect Pelosi to praise the system Democrats were responsible for implementing in dealing with ethics issues in the House.
Gates will talk about the suspected individual who leaked the classified information to WikiLeaks and try to spin the fact the Obama administration has been refocusing the effort in Afghanistan. A tough sell in light of the information being disclosed.
CBS "Face The Nation" - Senator Jon Kyl (R-Ariz.) - expect him to bemoan the federal judge ruling in regard to the state's immigration law. Also sure to express opinion will be, Thomas Saenz; President Mexican American Legal and Education Fund.
Admiral Mike Mullen will be joined with Richard Haass, president of Council on Foreign Relations. More discussion on U.S. policy in Afghanistan and Pakistan. CFR is known to be more conservative in their thought.
CNN "State of The Union" - Senators Carl Levin (D-Mich.) and Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.). Levin has to be happy with the trip by President Obama to Detroit, highlighting the comeback of the auto industry. Graham has to be sick over the fact a strong energy/climate bill he stuck his neck out to support with Senators Kerry and Lieberman, has now died a natural death and been replaced with an offering of a bill that basically bashes BP and does little else.
Fox News Sunday - Sarah Palin is their darling and headliner today. Rounding out their Republican leanings will be guests; Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) and House Minority Leader John Boehner (R-Oh.).
Think they will be bashing Democrats, with Palin talking about is the most recent "mama grizzly" to receive her endorsement? You bet ya - Now, listen closely to see if they offer any concrete proposals in regard to any single issue - don't bet on it.
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Friday, July 30, 2010
Daily Political Wire 7-30-2010
George Wenschhof
Today, President Obama is in Detroit, Michigan - he will tour GM and Chrysler factories. The Obama administration invested 64 Billion into the failing auto industry and it has paid big dividends as both companies are posting profits one year after entering bankruptcy.
GM is set for a public offering of stock this fall which would enable the automaker to repay the government the 43 billion it owes. You can read more here.
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Second Quarter Economic Growth lowest in one year - at 2.4%, it was lower than forecast as the trade gap remains and consumer spending is down. Bloomberg.com has more here.
To make matters worse, the International Monetary Fund is saying the U.S. Banking system, while stable, remains fragile and may need as much as 76 billion in capital. You can read more here.
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Elena Kagan vote set to begin Tuesday - the Senate debate will begin late Tuesday in an effort to shorten the debate and have the confirmation vote passed by the end of Thursday, the last day before summer recess. The Supreme Court Justice nominee is expected to win nomination. Four Republicans have already signaled their support. TheHill.com has more here.
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Republican Party of "No" strikes again - using the filibuster once again, Republican Senators blocked a bill that would give aid to small businesses by providing expanded loan programs and tax credits. Interestingly, these are exactly the type of provisions Republicans have championed for quite some time. The NY Times has more here.
Republicans are expected to also battle approval of 21 billion in aid to states for medicaid and to prevent teacher layoffs in a bill to be introduced prior to the August recess.
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Republican Senator John Ensign joins Rangel in the Hot Seat - just when Republicans were hoping to be able to exploit the upcoming Ethics trial of long term Representative Charles Rangel (D-NY). Politico.com has more here.
The Nevada Senator is under investigation by a federal grand jury that he illegally tried to cover up an extra marital affair with an aide. The senate, by a voice vote yesterday, allowed Ensign aides to testify to investigators.
This comes after investigators requested and received thousands of emails from Senator Tom Coburn (R-Ok.) pertaining to the case. Stay tuned....
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Thursday, July 29, 2010
Rangel To Accept Deal
George Wenschhof
A New York station; WCBS is reporting a deal may have been reached between Representative Charles Rangel's attorneys and the attorneys for the House Ethics committee.
If so, it is likely the details will be released when the House Ethics committee holds it's public meeting later this afternoon.
A deal would most likely include some admission of guilt along with possibly a censure of Rangel.
However, a public trial would be avoided which would detail the various accusations which include failure to report income and possible misuse of low-rent apartments. Democratic leadership is wary of a public trial with mid term elections taking place this fall.
We will update this story when the Ethics committee meets later today.
No deal had been reached when the House Ethics Committee met and 13 charges against Representative Charles Rangel were entered into the record - while none of the charges involved corruption, the charges were many, ranging from using office stationary to solicit funds for a library, failing to report income from overseas rentals, to improper use of low income housing units.
The trial, if continued, would not begin until after the August recess. House rules also prohibit a trial taking place within 30 days of an election, which means the trial would have to be concluded by October 3 or suspended until after the General Election to be held on November 2.
5:00 PM ET Update - AP reporting lawyers reach agreement on plea deal - however, members of the Ethics committee still have to approve the agreement, which was not disclosed. The committee consists of 8 members, 4 Republicans and 4 Democrats. Some Republican members were quick to say no to agreeing to the deal. Unless, at least one Republican and all four Democrats agree to the agreement reached by the attorneys, the trial will proceed.
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Daily Political Wire 7-29-2010
George Wenschhof
Today, President Obama appears on ABC "The View" - something Pennsylvania Governor Ed Rendell (D) did not feel appropriate for a U.S. president. Barbara Walters is back from open heart surgery to ask a few questions. I like the Governor, but with women out voting men across the country, it can not be a bad venue for the president to appear.
The show is broadcast at 11:00 AM ET. Below is an early clip from the show.
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Arizona Immigration Law blocked by Federal Judge - in a decision which supports the Obama administration position, Judge Susan Bolton ruled against the major provisions of the act would interfere with federal law and policy. The NY Times has more here.
While Congress will not be able to act on this issue prior to the mid term elections this fall, let's hope the issue is at the top of the list following the elections. A universal ID card is needed for Americans, prosecution of businesses who hire undocumented workers, a reasonable approach to strengthening our borders and a fair pathway to citizenship for the estimated 12+ million illegal immigrants residing in the country.
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President Obama will address the 100th Anniversary convention of the National Urban League - today, he will highlight his education reform program entitled "Race to the Top" which is funded through the Stimulus bill. Eighteen states are competing for a portion of over 3 billion in aid. CNN.com has more here.
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Resignation, Fight or Deal Option for Rangel to be revealed today - the four term serving Representative from New york will have charges brought against him in a public meeting by the House Ethics committee today. If a deal has not been agreed to prior to the meeting, which may involve censure, his choices are to either fight the charges or resign his seat. TheHill.com has more here.
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Wednesday, July 28, 2010
Daily Political Wire 7-28-2010
George Wenschhof
Today, President Obama is on the road again - still trying to sell a "Recovery Summer" theme with a stop in Edison, New Jersey. The "Recovery Summer" tour was meant to highlight the success of the nearly 800 billion Stimulus bill in creating jobs. With unemployment hovering at 10%, the tour is falling flat.
The president then heads to New York where he will attend fundraising event for the Democratic National Committee.
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Maryland Race for Governor Tied - Gonzales Marketing conducted a poll from July 13-21 which shows incumbent Democratic Governor Martin O'Malley ahead of former Republican Governor Robert Ehrlich 45% to 42%. A statistical tie with a margin of error of 3.5%. The Baltimore Sun has more here.
An earlier poll by Gonzales, prior to Ehrlich officially entering the race, had O'Malley up 48%-39%. A political battle sure to be reminiscent of the famous Ali-Frazier boxing matches.
So far, the Maryland Democratic Party and O'Malley campaign have focused on using a negative approach and have blasted Ehrlich with everything possible. Voters will tune in more after the kids are back in school so look for a pivot from the O'Malley team to focus on what O'Malley intends to do in the future at that time.
I predict the winner will be determined by the vote in Baltimore County. So, stay tuned to the campaign efforts that take place in that county.
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Oklahoma will have First Woman Governor - both Democrats and Republicans voted for women to be their nominee in their primaries held yesterday. Mary Fallin easily won the Republican primary and will face Democrat Jari Askins who narrowly beat Drew Edmondson by 1500 votes.
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Another 37 Billion approved for Iraq and Afghanistan wars - yesterday the House voted 308-114 with the opposition tripling since the last appropriations measure. You can read more here.
This vote comes after the recent WikiLeaks.org release of intelligence data which clearly shows the foolishness of continuing these wars in the current manner. It is past time to have Congress say "No" to continued funding of these wars.
In battling al-Qaeda, the U.S. can not continue to take the approach of nation building every country where they may exist. But rather, use intelligence and rapid strike forces, when needed to reduce the threat. The painful lesson of Viet Nam should have taught the U.S. military you can not fight a convention war strategy and be successful against a non conventional enemy.
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Campaign Financing Disclose Act fails in Senate - unable to break through a republican filibuster with a vote of 57-41. Politico.com has more here.
This bill was in response to the controversial and narrow 5-4 Supreme Court "Citizens United" decision which opened the floodgates for corporate spending in elections. The bill had earlier barely passed the House. But, only after the bill's sponsor; Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), watered down the bill with exemptions for groups such as the NRA.
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Blagojevich Corruption trial heads to Jury - without taking the stand, the former Illinois Governor will soon find out his fate. Charges of corruption and trying to sell the vacant Obama U.S. Senate seat will be in the hands of the jurors beginning today. MSNBC.com has more here.
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Rangel's attorneys trying to negotiate settlement with House Ethics committee - the embattled House member Charles Rangel (D-NY) admitted to the negotiations taking place, which if successful, would avoid a public trial. CNN.com has more here.
Failure to pay taxes on a home overseas, possible misuse of rent-controlled apartments, and failure to disclose assets are some of the charges facing the long term Congressman.
Democratic leadership is fearful a public trial will hurt Democrats in the upcoming mid term elections.
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Tuesday, July 27, 2010
Monday, July 26, 2010
Frederick County MD Commissioner Candidate Linda Norris Guest on "All Things Political with George Wenschhof"
George Wenschhof
It was the first time I had met Linda Norris; Democratic candidate for Frederick County Board of County Commissioners. She left me with a favorable impression. Her background and experience in working as a Newspaper reporter, serving as Public Information Officer for Frederick County government, directing recycling efforts for Frederick County government, as well as, working for ten years for Canam Steel would appear to bode well as a precursor to serving as an elected official.
We talked about the "growth" v. "no-growth" theme which has been pervasive in the county elections for decades and where she falls in this regard. She indicated she would be interested in reviewing the process used in the down zoning which took place during the recent adoption of the 2010 Comprehensive Plan update.
We also discuss the controversial 3-2 Commissioner vote to move forward with constructing the 300+ million Waste-To-Energy Incinerator and whether she would like to revisit this issue. In addition, we briefly talk about Charter Government and whether the county should change the current form of government.
She struck me as not falling into one group or another when it came to positions on issues, but rather being more of a practical centrist. A position that would be welcomed on the Board of Commissioners.
To express interest in being a guest, place a campaign advertisement, business advertisement and/or donate to help keep this program on the air, please email me at georgewenschhof@gmail.com
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Daily Political Wire 7-26-2010
George Wenschhof
Today, President Obama celebrates the 20th anniversary of the American's Disability Act - from the White House, the president will highlight the benefits an estimated 50 million Americans have received as a result of this bill. Access to employment housing and communication have improved for the lives of many disabled Americans. You can read more here.
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McCain Spending Big to win reelection in Arizona - the Senator who was the Republican nominee for president in 2008, has already spent 16 million from various committees associated with his campaign.
His Republican primary challenger; J.D. Hayworth has spent a fraction of that amount and in spite of hoping to capitalize on Arizona "immigration fever", has dropped far behind McCain in recent polls. Chris Cillizza has more here.
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House adjourns until after Labor Day at the end of this week - will any new bills be introduced and passed? How about the upcoming Rangel (D-NY) Ethics committee trial? You can read more here.
We'll know soon enough as the Ethics Committee announces Thursday the charges against Rangel. Expect a deal on Censure or for Rangel to maneuver to delay the trial so it does not take place before the General Election on November 2. House rules prohibit a trial taking place within 30 days of an election.
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Howard Dean calls Fox News "Racist" - yesterday, he labeled the charges when discussing the recent Shirley Sherrod situation. He blamed Glen Beck and Fox News for not vetting the film which, as everyone now knows, only contained part of the story. Politico.com has more here.
His accusation may be on point, however, everyone involved from the Agriculture Secretary to the NAACP rushed to judgement on a story surrounding race relations in America.
What the story proves, is we as a country, still have a ways to go in understanding and communicating regarding the issue of race.
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Startling News reports show Pakistan Spy Services helping Afghanistan insurgents - some 92,000 intelligence reports have been posted on www.wikileaks.org
The New York Times has a good read here and here.
In addition to spending billions on the Afghanistan war, the U.S. sends a billion a year to Pakistan. So, it would appear U.S. money is being spent on both sides of the conflict. If true, this adds to an already questionable effort by the U.S. in the region. It certainly calls for immediate review of U.S. foreign policy and strategy in the area.
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CNN to profile top 100 House races - in an interesting approach with 100 days left to the General election on November 2, CNN will profile each day a different House race which they feel falls into the top 100 to watch.
Today, it is the Wisconsin 7th district where Representative David Obey (D) is retiring, which makes this an open seat. You can read more here.
All 435 seats in the House are up for election and Republicans hope to have a net gain of at least 39 seats so they can regain the majority currently held by Democrats.
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Sunday, July 25, 2010
Daily Political Wire 7-25-2010
George Wenschhof
Yesterday, via a videotaped speech, President Obama joined House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calf.) and Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-Nev.) in addressing the Netroots convention meeting in Las Vegas - he talks about the accomplishments of his administration. However, the liberal Netroots are upset over the watered down and less effective health care and wall street reform bills. In addition, energy legislation introduced tomorrow in the Senate will be less than what was wanted in regard to a reduction of carbon emissions.
Minnesota Senator Al Franken (D) delivered the keynote address. CNN.com has more here.
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Will Tax Cuts for the Wealthy be extended? - Republicans want to extend the cuts for the wealthy enacted during the George W. Bush administration that are set to expire the end of the year. Democrats are divided, with the Obama administration sticking with proposing continuing tax cuts for the middle class - these cuts affected individuals making less than $200,000 and families making less than $250,000.
The NY Times examines whether this will be a campaign issue this year and beyond - here.
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Rangel attorneys explore deal with House Ethics committee - the ethics charges to be filed by the House Ethics committee against NY representative Charles Rangel will be made public on Thursday. MSNBC.com has more here.
In an attempt to avoid a public trial, an aide has leaked discussions are ongoing pertaining to an admission by Rangel to some wrongdoing in exchange for a public admonishment or censure. If found guilty in the upcoming House trial, Rangel could face expulsion from the House.
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Saturday, July 24, 2010
Daily Political Wire 7-24-2010
George Wenschhof
Progressives meet in Las Vegas - the fifth annual convention held since the founding by Markos Moulitsas, who runs the liberal website www.DailyKos.com The Washington Post has more here.
Liberal Democrats are not very happy with the passage of watered down Health and Wall Street Reform bills. They overestimated their influence in the Obama administration after his victory in 2008.
House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calf.) and Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-Nev.) will address the estimated 2100 attendees today and also take questions.
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Representative Betty Sutton (D-Ohio) calls for Charles Rangel (D-NY) to Resign - as the House Ethics committee prepares to formally charge Rangel in a meeting Thursday. Sutton was the first to also call for Rangel to resign from his post as chair of the powerful Ways and Means Committee. TheHill.com has more here.
While many Democrats are fearful of the voter reaction to a trial of Rangel, the House rules may prohibit a trial taking place until after the mid term elections.
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Meanwhile, Republican Senator John Ensign remains under investigation by Justice Department - stemming from his help in obtaining lobbying work for the husband and former aide who's wife he was having an affair.
Senator Tom Coburn (R-Okla.) just turned over 1200 pages of emails requested by the Justice Department on Ensign. Stay Tuned... Politico.com has more here.
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Campaign Finance Disclosure bill to get debate in Senate on Tuesday - a bill that resulted from the narrow 5-4 Supreme Court "Citizens United" decision. The bill championed by Representative Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.) barely passed the House after provisions were added to exempt many organizations, including the NRA.
As usual, for Senate passage, Democrats will need to secure the votes from the Maine Republican Senators; Collins and Snowe, along with Scott Brown (Mass.). You can read more here.
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Obama Weekly Address 7-24-2010
George Wenschhof
After signing the Wall Street Reform bill, President Obama talks about his plan to continue to move Americans forward versus the Republican plan which would move Americans backwards.
He speaks of the tax breaks for small businesses which will lead to jobs, his plan to invest in home grown clean energy, and to continue tax cuts for working class families. Whereas. the Republicans seem only interested in making tax cuts for the wealthy permanent.
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Sunday Morning "Talking Heads" Lineup for 7-25-2010
George Wenschhof
The Wall Street Reform bill was finally passed and signed into law by President Obama this week and Treasury Secretary Timothy Geithner has the dubious honor of trying to explain a very complicated, but necessary bill, to American voters. He will be on two of the morning shows; NBC "Meet the Press and ABC "This Week". Expect him to also be asked about the struggling economy and when unemployment numbers will finally drop across the country.
The unfortunate circumstances which led to the forced resignation of Agriculture Department employee Shirley Sherrod has brought the spotlight on race in America and the proper role of the media. This situation will be discussed on most of the morning shows this Sunday with CBS "Face The Nation" having a panel discussion on the subject of race.
NBC "Meet The Press" - Treasury Secretary Timothy Geithner. Roundtable with David Brooks, EJ Dionne, Anita Dunn, Marc Morial, and Rick Santelli.
CBS "Face The Nation" - Abigail Thermstrom, Michael Eric Dyson, Cornel West, John Fund, and Michael Gerson.
ABC "This Week" - Governor Chris Christie (R-NJ) and Treasury Secretary Timothy Geithner. Roundtable with Steven Hayes, Sam Donaldson, Cokie Roberts, and Donna Brazile.
CNN "State of The Union" - General Michael Hayden (Ret.), Steve Forbes, Christopher Edley, John McWherter, and Mort Zuckerman.
Fox News Sunday - Howard Dean, Jesse Jackson, and Newt Gingrich.
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Friday, July 23, 2010
Register of Wills Candidate Tim May Guest on "All Things Political with George Wenschhof"
George Wenschhof
Originally published 7-13-2010
The interview with Mr. May (R) went by fast as he discussed his lifelong experience of growing up and living in Frederick county, Maryland. He surprised me somewhat with an announcement he was stepping down from his position as Chief Judge of the Orphan's Court in Frederick County, Maryland. He wanted to avoid any question as to his continuing to serve as Judge while he was running for the Register of Wills position. He added it would also enable him to campaign full time.
He explains what the Register of Wills position does and goes over what changes he would make if elected. In addition to making the office more user friendly and seeking input for improvement of the service from those who have experienced the Register of Wills office, he intends to hire back Ann Golden as Deputy Clerk.
May also agreed with a position I took in a column I wrote prior to the 2006 election when I opined the Register of Wills position and the three Orphan's Court Judge positions should not be on the ballot. Instead, they should be state merit based positions. He promised to pursue this change, which would require action from the state legislature, if elected.
He concludes with asking incumbent Register of Wills Virginia Fifer (R) to a debate.
No Democrat filed to run for this position and the local central committee has until July 21 to nominate a candidate to appear on the ballot. This race will most likely be decided in the Republican primary when Tim May faces incumbent Virginia Fifer on September 14.
You can watch the entire interview below.
To request an interview, place a campaign advertisement, business advertisement or donate to help keep this program on the air, email me at georgewenschhof@gmail.com
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Bartlett Holds Huge Financial Lead In MD 6th Congressional District
George Wenschhof
The required June 30 Finance Reports are out and Republican Roscoe Bartlett holds a very comfortable edge over his opponents. Bartlett was first elected in 1992 and has defeated a number of Democratic opponents ever since.
New Democratic candidate Casey Clark is reporting a total of $153, 353 in contributions, including a $50,000 loan. He also is reporting expenditures of $133, 917, including the repayment of the $50,000 loan.
So, Clark has raised $103, 353 and spent $83,917. Which leaves him with $19,446 cash on hand.
Democratic candidate Andrew Duck is finding out the third time as candidate for the sixth district is not the charm as his finance report showed he has raised a total of $20,668 with expenses at $17,677, including a $1,000 refund. That left him with a cash on hand balance of only $2,997.
Incumbent Republican Roscoe Bartlett reported total receipts of $190,119 and total expenditures of $76,962. His cash on hand balance which includes carry over funds is $416,464.
Republican candidate Joseph Kyrsztoforski reported a total of $8,397 in receipts and $7,598 in expenditures with cash on hand of only $1,153. He also showed a debt of $18,700.
No finance reports were filed by Republican candidates; Dennis Janda, Steve Taylor and Seth Wilson. Dan Massey; a Libertarian candidate, also did not file a report.
You can access the candidate finance reports filed with the Federal Elections Commission here
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Daily Political Wire 7-23-2010
George Wenschhof Visit msnbc.com for breaking news, world news, and news about the economy
Small business aid bill moves closer to Senate vote - another program pushed by the Obama administration and resisted by Republicans in Congress. yesterday, the senate voted 60-39 with Republicans George Lemieux (Fla.) and John Voinovich (Ohio) voting for the measure which has 30 billion in lending for small business. The Caucus has more here.
The overall bill includes over 12 billion in various tax breaks for small business and most Republicans remain opposed. It has long been recognized that job creation is spurred mostly by small business growth.
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Representative Charles Rangel (D-NY) to face House Ethics Charges - while the charges come at a bad time for Democrats who are trying to hold their majorities in Congress, the actual House trial will not likely take place until after the elections. TheHill.com has more here.
The long expected charges will be revealed most likely next Thursday when a eight member adjudicatory subcommittee is announced. They will be responsible for handling the trial of Rangel. However, House rules prohibit a trial 30 days prior to a primary and 60 days prior to the election.
Rangel did not endear himself to many who watched the tape of him belittling NBC reporter Luke Russert (the late Tim Russert's son) when asked if he could lose his job.
DCCC buys 28 million in TV ads in 40 districts across the country - an early look at the seats they are targeting. The ad time was purchased for before the November 2 General Election. They are mostly first term incumbents. Interestingly, Maryland Representative Frank Kratovil (1st district) did not make the list. Politico.com has more here.
He is facing a tough challenge from Republican state senator Andy Harris who has reported raising 1.35 million. Kratovil reported 1.7 million.
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U.S. District Court Judge mulls Arizona Immigration Law - Judge Susan Bolton could strike various provisions or the entire law known as SB 1070. Stay tuned... You can read more here.
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Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-Nev.) says senate will not take up reduction of carbon emissions (Climate bill) this summer - he acknowledged there were not enough votes for the bill proposed by Senator John Kerry (D-Mass.). Instead, they will focus on passing a smaller energy bill focused on holding BP responsible for the cleanup of the Gulf area, promoting use of natural gas and more energy efficient homes. A move that is sure to anger the liberal Democratic base. The NY Times has more here.
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Thursday, July 22, 2010
Daily Political Wire 7-22-2010
George Wenschhof
Today, President Obama signs into law the Improper Payment and Elimination Act - largely symbolic, the bill aims to reduce fraud and wasteful spending by government programs. You can read more here.
It's Vice President Joe Biden's turn for a trip to a Gulf state hit hard by the BP oil spill - he is in Theodore, Alabama this morning. On a busy day, the vice president then heads to Chapel Hill, North Carolina. attends a DNC fundraiser and then is off to Columbia, South Carolina.
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Senate approves Unemployment Benefits Extension - the 59-39 vote was along party lines. The House is expected to approve today and then the president will sign into law. The Washington post has more here.
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Will tax cuts for the wealthy expire? - the cuts passed during the former Republican George W. Bush administration are set to expire at the end of the year. Of all things, Democrats in Congress can not agree on whether to allow the cuts to expire. fearful of a backlash in a mid term election year, moderate Democrats in Congress are proposing a two year extension. Even former Federal Reserve chair Alan Greenspan said recently the tax cuts for the wealthy need to expire and use the funds to pay down the deficit. TheHill.com has more here.
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More troubles for RNC Chair Michael Steele - seems like questionable expenses have followed Steele ever since he first ran as Lt. Governor of Maryland. This time, the RNC Treasurer has said over 2 million in debt was hidden from committee officials in the quarter ending June 30 financial report.
The RNC reported 11 million cash on hand which will now be reduced significantly. That compares to the 45 million cash on hand the RNC reported in July 2006 - the last mid term election year.
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No charges to be brought in regard to firing of U.S. attorney in 2006 by Bush administration - after two years of investigation, the special prosecutor; Nora Dannehy said that while the firing of New Mexico U.S. attorney David C. Iglesias and eight other U.S. attorneys was politically motivated, it was not a crime. The NY Times has more here.
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Wednesday, July 21, 2010
Daily Political Wire 7-21-2010
George Wenschhof Visit msnbc.com for breaking news, world news, and news about the economy
Today, President Obama will sign into law the Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act - the passage was delayed by Republicans for over a year. The final vote was 60-39 and while the bill will make many necessary changes to the way banks operate, it did not go far enough in preventing the financial debacle the country is still recovering from. CNN.com has more here.
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Sherrod forced resignation should focus spotlight in irresponsible reporting - the story of Shirley Sherrod who was forced to resign after a segment of a video was played on a website entitled www.biggoverment.com which lead to muckraker and sensationalist style reporters to immediately use the race card and call for her resignation. Bloomberg.com has more here.
When the video is viewed in full, it shows Ms. Sherrod using a racist type of feeling as a teaching and learning moment for her audience. Now, Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsak is reconsidering hiring her back.
Below, Ms. Sherrod on NBC "Today"
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Republican candidate for Governor of Georgia face runoff election - As expected, Karen Handel, former Secretary of State, beat Nathan Deal, but feel short of the 50% needed to avoid a runoff election which will be held August 10. The NY Times has more here.
Former Governor Roy Barnes easily won the Democratic nomination for Governor and will face the winner of the Republican runoff in the general election on November 2.
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Elena Kagan receives 13-6 vote from Senate Judiciary committee - the Supreme Court Justice nominee will now be voted on by the full Senate. She is expected to win nomination. In an identical vote that was taken by the committee for Sonia Sotomayor, only Republican Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.) voted to support. Politico.com has more here.
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Democratic Senate Campaign Committee outraises Republican counterpart in last quarter - as of the end of June, Democrats had raised 7.15 million and Republicans 4.03 million. The important cash on hand was almost identical with Democrats at 21.5 million and Republicans at 19.7 million.
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Tuesday, July 20, 2010
Daily Political Wire 7-20-2010
George Wenschhof
Today, President Obama meets with British Prime Minister David Cameron - the first visit to the white House from the newly elected Prime Minister. there is certainly lots to talk about, starting with BP. The BP Gulf oil spill will be the largest spill ever to hit the United States. in addition, what role, if any, did BP play in the release of the Lockerbie Bomber Baset al-Meghani? You can read more here.
There's more on the agenda like the world economy, wars in Iraq and Afghanistan and what to do with Iran?
Britain has long been a U.S. ally so a scolding is not in order.
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Supreme Court nominee Elena Kagan to receive Judiciary Committee vote today - the Senate committee is expected to vote along the same lines as they did with Sonia Sotomayor. The vote will either be 12-7 with all Democrats voting for and all Republicans voting against or Republican Lindsey Graham (S.C.) will vote for as he did with Sotomayor.
Kagan is expected to win nomination by the Senate within the next couple of weeks.
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Unemployment Benefits expected to pass Senate today - President Obama waited until the day before (yesterday) Carte Goodwin was to be sworn in as the new senator from West Virginia to blast Republicans for using the filibuster to block passage of the bill. At 2:30 today, Vice President Joe Biden will swear in Carte Goodwin to replace the late Senator Byrd, giving the Democrats the 60 votes needed to secure passage of the bill.
Continued obstructionism by Republicans in Congress, especially in regards to bills which would help those unemployed in need, will not help them win the seats needed in November to retake majorities in the House and Senate.
Late yesterday, the West Virginia state legislature approved a special election to fill the seat with the primary to be held on August 28 and the General election to fall on the same November 2 date as the regular elections. Mr. Goodwin's tenure will be short as popular Governor Joe Manchin is expected to announce today he is running for the seat. The candidate elected will serve the remainder of the term until 2012.
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New Gallup Poll shows voters prefer Democratic controlled Congress 49% - 43% - a sign the Republican Party obstructionism and strategy of saying "No" to everything is backfiring as the mid term elections near.
Expect Democrats to hammer home the Republican policies under the George W. Bush administration that put the country in the economic state it is in and ask the voters "do you want to go back to the policies that put you in this ditch or continue to move forward with the policies that are helping us to climb out of this hole".
Case in point is an ad just released by the Democratic National Committee.
Independents now favor Republicans by only 4 points 43%-39%. Gallup.com has more here.
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Georgia Primary Today - Chris Cillizza, as usual, is on top of it. In the race for the nomination for Governor, he believes Republican Secretary of State Karen Handel will win in a crowed field, but not receive 50% of the vote. thus, a August 10 runoff election will be held.
On the Democratic side, former Governor Roy Barnes is favored to win easily. He is also expected to win in the General Election.
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Monday, July 19, 2010
Daily Political Wire 7-19-2010
George Wenschhof
This morning, President Obama will hold a press conference in the White House Rose Garden - back from a quick vacation to Bar Harbor, Maine, the president will again call on Congress to pass an extension for unemployment benefits.
Republicans have repeatedly blocked passage with the use of the filibuster, but vote number 60 will be sworn in tomorrow - Carte Goodwin (D-W.Va.).
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Vice President Joe Biden lends his support to Maryland Governor Martin O'Malley - when he attends a fundraising event in Baltimore today.
Incumbent Democratic Governor O'Malley is facing a tough reelection campaign against former one term Republican Governor Robert Ehrlich.
Recently, President Obama sent an email blast to Maryland supporters urging their support for O'Malley.
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Passage of Campaign Finance Disclosure Act doubtful - this was proposed in response to the narrow 5-4 "Citizens United" Supreme Court decision which opened the floodgates for corporate donations to political campaigns.
The House narrowly passed the bill after exempting the NRA, Sierra Club, and other groups. The two Republican senators from Maine; Susan Collins and Olympia Snowe are like warm in support and Scott Brown (R-Mass.) has said no. This makes passage in the Senate a very slim possibility.
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Tea Party Caucus of One formed in House - Minnesota's far right wing nut; Representative Michele Bachman (R) has formed a Tea Party Caucus in the House, where she is the only member.
The "McCarthy" like Representative has made calls for investigation of members of Congress for un-American activity and has called the Obama administration a "gangster government".
Let's hope the voters of Minnesota wake up and vote her out this fall.
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