Daily Political Wire 11-16-2010

George Wenschhof

Rangel offers No Defense in Ethics Trial - after, what has seemed years of delay, Representative Charles Rangel (D-NY) asked for another delay due to his being unable to afford a lawyer. Turns out, he had spent his entire campaign fund (approx. 1.6 million) on his defense to date and could no longer afford legal representation. The use of campaign funds is allowable, but this is a painful example of what is wrong with existing use of campaign funds. When the delay was not granted, Rangel left the hearing.

The House ethics committee is expected to make a ruling today. Expect a letter of reprimand or a censure, but for the ruling to fall short of an explusion from the House. TheHill.com has more here.

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Wife of Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas to step down as Director of Conservative Organization - Virginia Thomas has been the executive director of Liberty Central, a conservative group which supports tea party positions on issues. Her serving in this capacity has led many to question the ethics of a wife of a supreme court justice working for a political organization. The NY Times has more here.

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Pelosi continues to put out fires in Democratic caucus - after Heath Shuler (D-NC) realized he would not have the votes to oust Nancy Pelosi (D-Calf.) as House Speaker and soon to be Minority Leader, he and other blue dog democrats are working to strip her of the power to appoint chairs of the DCCC and other important committees. The (CBC) Congressional Black caucus is also asking for more details of the position promised to James Clyburn (D-N.C.). Politico.com has more here.

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3 Billion for 20 stealth fighters part of U.S. deal with Israel to restart peace talks - and Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has to plea with his parliament for approval of a 90 day building freeze? A ridiculous proposal by the Obama administration in a desperate attempt to restart the Palestinian/Israel peace process The proposed deal includes a guarantee no additional time for a building freeze would be submitted. Let's see, 3 billion for a 90 day building freeze - who wouldn't take that deal? NPR.org has more here.

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