George Wenschhof
Today, President Barack Obama is in Rome - He will be meeting with Pope Benedict XVI. Yesterday, the G-8 agreed to contribute 20 Billion in farm aid to help feed needy nations. Reuters.com has more here.
The President then heads to Ghana where a huge crowd is expected. BBC has more here.
--------------------
Obama says health care reform will happen this year - he offered these comments from L'Aquila, Italy, prior to heading to Rome to meet with the Pope. the president is urging Congress to have a bill out by the end of August. Obama acknowledged reform was not easy due to intense lobbying by special interests who benefit from the current system. Politico.com has more here.
--------------------
Costa Rica President Oscar Arias begins mediation of Honduras situation -yesterday, he hosted separate meetings with ousted Honduran President Manuel Zelaya and interim President Roberto Micheletti. No agreement was reached. You can read more here.
--------------------
GM emerges from bankruptcy after only 40 days - CEO Fritz Henderson says the auto maker will focus on "customers cars, and culture". Makes you wonder, what were they focusing on previously? Let's see how they do now that their massive debt has been eliminated. MSNBC.com has more here.
--------------------
Senator John Ensign (R-Nev.) stays in spotlight as his parents admit they gave his mistress's family $96,000 - a benevolent gift, of course and not to be confused with the term "hush money". I guess the line "what happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas" did not apply in this case. Republicans continue to receive the headlines they do not want. TheHill.com has more here.
--------------------
Illinois Senator Roland Burris (D) will not run for election in 2010 - Democrats had their share of wackiness as the entire former governor rod Blagojevich saga was being played out. Along the way, the Governor appointed Burris to fill the vacant U.S. Senate seat held previously by Barack Obama. Burris is set to announce today, he will not run for election next year. The Chicago Sun-Times has more here. One Democrat to watch in the coming primary, is businessman Chris Kennedy, the son of the late Robert F. Kennedy.
--------------------
To receive "Daily Updates" from Air-it-Out with George Wenschhof, click on "Subscribe to this feed" below.
Friday, July 10, 2009
Daily Democratic Wire 7-10-2009
Monday, February 23, 2009
Democratic Chatter 2-23-2009
George Wenschhof Bio
President Barack Obama will name a Stimulus bill Oversight Board today - the Director of the Recovery Act Transparency and Accountability Board will be Earl Devany. Mr. Devany was a former fraud investigator. Vice President Joe Biden will make sure regular reports are posted on recovery.gov so Americans can track the progress. Politico.com has more here.
--------------------
Many Republican Governors support the Stimulus bill - if you were able to catch any of the Sunday morning "Talking Heads" political talk shows, you would have seen California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger (R) and Florida Governor Charlie Crist speaking on how the Stimulus bill will be helping people in their states. Two Republican Governors, Bobby Jindal of Louisiana and Haley Barbour will be turning down the portion of the Stimulus bill that extends unemployment benefits - hardly a sign of their empathy for the situation many unemployed Americans are finding themselves in. So much for Republican party unity on this issue. The Wall Street Journal has more here.
---------------------
First Obama Budget due out Thursday - While the woes of the economy have been the focus, there is still a Budget to be submitted and approved. This is in addition to the Bailout and Stimulus bills. Expect expanding health care to receive a major emphasis in his Budget. Reuters.com has more here.
--------------------
The Senator Roland Burris (D-Ill) quagmire may lead to special elections in the future - Vacant Representative seats have long been filled by special elections while the Senate vacancies have been filled by Governor appointment. Senator Russ Feingold (D-Wis.) and Representative David Drier (R-Calf.) will be submitting legislation to change the process to filling vacant Senate seats to a special election. TheHill.com has more here.
This comes after the continuing saga surrounding the appointment of Burris by impeached Governor Rod Blagojevich. Burris was interviewed by federal agents on Saturday. The Chicago Sun Times has more here.
--------------------
To receive "Daily Email Updates" from Air-it-Out with George Wenschhof, click on "Subscribe to this feed" below.
Friday, February 20, 2009
Democratic Chatter 2-20-2009
George Wenschhof Bio
President Barack Obama returns to Washington after a one day trip to Canada - his meeting with Prime Minister Stephen Halter in Ottawa, covered free trade and the use of environmental friendly technologies. While agreement was reached on the use of green energy, no agreement was reached on reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Reuters.com has more here
--------------------
Today the President will host Mayors from across the country at the White House to discuss the Stimulus bill - You can read more here. On Sunday, the White House will be the site of the Governors Association Dinner. Earth, Wind and Fire will perform. WhiteHouse.gov has more here.
--------------------
Live-Blogging from the White House - how cool is this! The Website, WhiteHouse.gov has had a Blog since it's launch, but now it is providing live blogging as events unfold. The President's trip to Canada was the first use of the new feature. Check out the step by step posts, along with plenty of photos for you to view. Politico.com has more here.
--------------------
Dow Jones drops after gloomy economic forecast - the Federal Reserve forecast of a prolonged recession throughout this year lead to a drop in the Dow of 89.65 to close at 7465.95. This is a six year low. CNN.com has more here. The idea of nationalizing troubled banks may be picking up support as former Federal Reserve Chair Alan Greenspan feels it will be necessary. McClatchydc.com has more here.
--------------------
Pressure continues to mount for Senator Roland Burris (D-Ill.) to resign - Burris may face perjury charges based on his testimony to the Illinois impeachment panel and the Senate is taking up the issue in the Ethics committee. This, after revelations that former Governor Rod Blagojevich's brother had contacted him several times asking for campaign contributions and Burris attempted to hold a fund raiser for him. Now, it is being reported Black clergy who had previously supported his appointment, will be meeting with Burris to encourage him to resign. MSNBC.com has more here.
--------------------
Leon Panetta sworn in as CIA Director - Vice President Joe Biden handled the ceremonies making Leon Panetta official. There were concerns during the confirmation process, he did not have any experience in the intelligence field. Panetta, a former white House Chief of Staff under the Clinton administration vowed honesty from the agency. ThePage.time.com has more here.
--------------------
To receive "Daily Email Updates" from Air-it-Out with George Wenschhof, click on "Subscribe to this feed" below.
Wednesday, February 18, 2009
Democratic Chatter 2-18-2009
George Wenschhof Bio
Today, President Barack Obama will announce his mortgage relief program in Phoenix, Arizona - this is the home state of his 2008 presidential opponent, Senator John McCain. Phoenix has experienced high levels of foreclosures. The program is part of the revised 700 billion Bailout bill (TARP), Secretary Timothy Geithner tried to explain last week. Reportedly, 50-100 billion will be made available to help banks restructure loans resulting in lower monthly payments to homeowners. CNN.com has more here.
--------------------
Unfortunately, the first reaction by Wall Street to the Stimulus bill signing yesterday was a 297.1 drop in the Dow Jones - the close was 7552.60, the lowest in ten years. We could see this coming as we reported the drop on Global stocks yesterday morning. It did not help when former Federal Reserve Chairman Alan Greenspan said the U.S. is not doing enough to stabilize the financial markets. Bloomberg.com has more here.
--------------------
All of this while the auto industry asks for more money - the 13.4 billion GM and Chrysler received earlier under the bailout bill required restructuring plans to be submitted to congress yesterday. The plans were submitted and included - guess what? - a request for more money while cutting a total of 50,000 jobs. Chrysler wants 5 billion and GM wants 16.6 billion. Meanwhile, the United Auto Workers (UAW) union has agreed to restructure current agreements. MCNBC.com has more here.
--------------------
The President announces a 17,000 troop level increase in Afghanistan - hardly a surprise as he campaigned that the U.S. had lost it's focus in Afghanistan under the previous administration. Currently, the U.S. has 38,000 troops deployed and NATO has another 30,000 troops in Afghanistan. It is anticipated President Obama will increase the troop level again as he continues a review of the military strategy for the region. In Iraq, there are currently 146,000 U.S. troops. Reuters.com has more here.
--------------------
Senate Ethics Committee to investigate Illinois Democratic Senator Roland Burris - the more the former Governor Rod Blagojevich appointed Senator speaks, the more trouble he stirs up. First, it was an amendment to his statement to his testimony given to the Illinois impeachment panel which said the former Governor's brother had solicited campaign funds from him. The state of Illinois is considering charges of perjury. The latest revelation is Burris says he did try to hold a fundraiser for the Governor but no one was interested. Now it seems the Senate Ethics committee, chaired by Senator Barbara Boxer (D-Calf.) has opened an investigation. TheHill.com has more here.
--------------------
To receive "Daily Email Updates" from Air-it-Out with George Wenschhof, click on "Subscribe to this feed" below.
Tuesday, February 17, 2009
Democratic Chatter 2-17-2009
George Wenschhof Bio
President Barack Obama will sign the 787 billion Stimulus bill today in Denver, Colorado - today is also when Chrysler and GM have to submit restructuring plans to the Treasury, a condition of the 13.4 billion in government loans given to them. The automakers are expected to receive an additional 7 billion in aid. Tomorrow, the president will be in Phoenix, Arizona to announce his new effort to help on the foreclosure front. The NY Times has more here.
--------------------
Meanwhile, stocks dropped worldwide - stocks in Europe and Asia dropped. The Euro fell while Gold climbed. The global economic crisis continues so it is important the Obama administration works in a concerted manner with nations around the world. Bloomberg.com has more here.
--------------------
Obama close to announcing troop increase in Afghanistan - the president has been weighing advise as to the size and the mission before he announces his decision. however, 3000 new troops just arrived in Afghanistan to bolster a weak area around Kabul. MSNBC.com has more here.
--------------------
Will Senator Roland Burris (D-Ill.) resign? - some Democrats are hoping that is what happens as the state of Illinois is preparing to investigate whether the Senator committed perjury when testifying before the impeachment panel of then Governor Rod Blagojevich (D-Ill.). Seems like Blagojevich will continue to haunt the Democrats for a little while longer. Politico.com has more here.
--------------------
Both NY Senator Kirsten Gillibrand and Governor David Paterson appear to be weak candidates for reelection - in yet another of the Democratic sagas involving a Governor selecting the replacement for a vacant senate seat. Gillibrand was selected to fill the vacant Hillary Clinton senate seat after an embarrassing series of events surrounding Caroline Kennedy who had expressed interest in the seat. A Quinnipiac poll shows Gillibrand trailing Representative Carolyn McCarthy (D) by 10 points and Governor Paterson trailing state attorney Andrew Cuomo (D) by 32 points. TheHill.com has more here
--------------------.
To receive "Daily Email Updates" from Air-it-Out with George Wenschhof, click on "Subscribe to this feed" below.
Sunday, February 15, 2009
Democratic Chatter 2-15-2009
George Wenschhof Bio
President Barack Obama and family are spending the long weekend at home in Chicago, Illinois - last night he went out to dinner with the First Lady on Valentine's Day. Today, a video he taped promoting community service will be shown at halftime of the NBA All-Star game. CNN.com has a clip of his message here.
It is now expected the President will sign the 1,100 page, 787 billion Stimulus bill on Tuesday while in Denver, Colorado.
--------------------
Yesterday, Treasury Secretary Timothy Geithner addressed members of the G-7 on U.S. efforts on the global economic crisis - the 6 hour meeting in Rome was attended by officials from major European countries, Canada, Japan and Russia. Geithner's initial roll out of his plan was not received very well in the U.S. last week as many felt it was too vague and lacked specifics. He explained to world leaders the plan was detailed and stressed the importance of acting now and not later. MSNBC.com has more here.
--------------------
Some industry executives complaining about pay restrictions included in the Stimulus bill - Senator Chris Dodd (D-Conn.) included the pay limitations in the bill which is now scheduled to be signed on Tuesday by the President. Although this is a reasonable restriction on executives of companies receiving public funding, expect a constitutional challenge in the future. Bloomberg.com has more here.
--------------------
Blagojevich's brother solicited funds from Roland Burris - seems the former Illinois Governor continues to torment the Obama administration and the Democratic Party. The newly sworn in Senator filed an amendment to his statement to the Illinois House Impeachment panel. In the amendment, Burris says the former Governor's brother Rob called three times and solicited $10,000 in campaign contributions from Burris. Expect Republicans to jump on this revelation. It would also appear Senator Burris may have some explaining to do. Stay tuned. TheHill.com has more here.
--------------------
Remember the Immigration debate? - it continues to simmer as it received very little attention during the Presidential campaign and little to no attention since President Obama has taken office. The debate over the building of the multi-billion border fence begins to heat up as 8 Democrats recently wrote a letter to the President asking him to halt the construction of the fence. In 2006, Congress with then Senator Obama voting in favor, funded 3 billion for 670 miles of the fence. You can read more here.
--------------------
To receive "Daily Email Updates? from Air-it-Out with George Wenschhof, click on "Subscribe to this feed" below.
Thursday, January 29, 2009
Blagojevich Saddened, but not Surprised at Removal
George Wenschhof Bio
After just four days of the state senate impeachment trial of Governor Rod Blagojevich, the vote this afternoon was 59-0 to oust the Governor from office. Lt. Governor Patrick Quinn was immediately sworn in as Governor. The vote followed testimony from the Governor who continued to deny any wrongdoing. MSNBC.com has more as well as video here.
The removal of Governor Blagojevich ended the two months of scrutiny he has been under ever since his arrest for allegedly being involved in a pay-for-play scheme involving the filling of the vacant Barack Obama senate seat.
The Governor spoke to reporters at 7:15 PM ET expressing his sadness but no surprise at the vote removing him from office. He thanked the voters and expressed how grateful he and his family were to have been able to serve the citizens of Illinois. In a brief question and answer period with reporters he continued to say the fix was in and he looked forward to his date in court and the opportunity to clear his name.
The circus surrounding Blagojevich was further exacerbated with his appointment of Roland Burris to the vacant senate seat. After initial efforts by Democratic leadership to block the appointment failed, Burris was sworn into office. This situation, as well as the media frenzy surrounding the filling of the vacant Hillary Clinton senate seat in New york prompted Senator Russ Feingold (D-Wis.) to offer a constitutional amendment on the manner vacant senate seats are filled. He is calling for special elections similar to what is done for vacant seats in the House.
The interesting question that will remain for pundits and constitutional lawyers to discuss remains "is it allowable to impeach and remove a Governor who has not been convicted of a crime"? Do not expect this issue to go away.
--------------------
To receive "Daily Email Updates" from Air-it-Out with George Wenschhof, click on "Subscribe to this feed" below or enter your email in the Box in the right hand margin of our Home Page.
Thursday, January 15, 2009
Democratic Chatter 1-15-2009
George Wenschhof Bio
President-elect Barack Obama and family move into the Blair House today - this move comes after spending the last ten days at the Hays-Adams Hotel. The next move is into the White House. Inauguration Day is now only five days away. The NY Times Caucus Blog has more here.
--------------------
President George W. Bush to give his farewell address to the nation tonight - it will be broadcast on all the major TV networks beginning at 8:00 PM ET. Time.com has more here.
--------------------
Confirmation Hearing for Attorney General nominee Eric Holder scheduled for this morning - the Senate Judiciary Committee chaired by Senator Pat Leahy (D-Vt.) is expected to have some tough questions for Mr. Holder from Republicans. One will be his involvement in the President Clinton pardon of Marc Rich. The NY Times has more here.
--------------------
Senate Foreign relations committee votes overwhelmingly in favor of Hillary Clinton for Secretary of State - the vote was 16-1 in favor with a full senate vote to confirm her nomination expected to take place shortly after Barack Obama is sworn in as President. Reuters.com has more here.
--------------------
Senate expected to vote today on releasing remaining 350 Billion of the Bailout funds - Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-Nev.) expects the vote to pass. This, in spite of elected officials questioning how the first 350 Billion of the Troubled Assets Relief Program (TARP) was spent with no accountability by the financial institutions who received the money. CNN.com has more here.
--------------------
Roland Burris will become Senator from Illinois today - Vice-President Dick Cheney will perform the ceremony making the appointment by Illinois Governor Rod Blagojevich official at 2:00 PM ET
--------------------.
To receive "Daily Email Updates" from Air-it-Out with George Wenschhof, click on "Subscribe to this feed" below.
Wednesday, January 14, 2009
Democratic Chatter 1-14-2009
George Wenschhof Bio
President-elect Barack Obama and Vice President-elect Joe Biden to visit Supreme Court today - in what has become a tradition, they were invited by Chief Justice John G. Roberts. The Washington Post has more here.
Joe Biden is also expected to brief Obama today on his recent trip to Pakistan, Afghanistan and Iraq.
--------------------
Obama's pick for Treasury Secreatary Tim Geithner receives tough confirmation hearing - turns out the pick who would among other things oversee the IRS, failed to pay some $42,000 in taxes and had a housekeeper whose work permit had expired. The back taxes were paid prior to his nomination and most pundits feel the appointment will be confirmed. Politico.com has more here.
--------------------
Three more Confirmation Hearings today - up today are Lisa Jackson for Secretary of the Environmental Protection Agency, Tom Vilsak for Agriculture Secretary and Eric Shinseki for Secretary of Veteran Affairs. The Wall Street Journal has more here.
--------------------
Legal Battles continue in Minnesota senate race - Governor Pawlenty and the Secretary of State have refused to certify the election results from the canvassing board recount which showed a win by Franken due to legal challenges by the Coleman campaign. The Franken campaign has now filed suit with the State Supreme Court asking for certification of their victory. CNN.com has more here.
--------------------
Roland Burris to be sworn in tomorrow as new Illinois Senator - seems embattled Illinois governor rod Blagojevich won this one. Now speculation begins as to whether Republicans will use this appointment as fodder to crticize Democrats. The other big question is will Burris run in 2010? Politico.com has more here.
--------------------
To receive "Daily Email Updates" from Air-it-Out with George Wenschhof, click on "Subscribe to this feed" below.
Tuesday, January 13, 2009
Democratic Chatter 1-13-2009
George Wenschhof Bio
Today, President-elect Barack Obama will have lunch with Democratic Senators - during their weekly luncheon get-together, Obama will urge them to support the release of the additional 350 Billion remaining in the bailout bill. He will also be talking up his stimulus bill. The NY Times CaucusBlog.com has more here. It is now one week until Inauguration Day.
--------------------
Roland Burris now the Senate-Designate from Illinois - in the latest version of the two-step, Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-Nev.) indicated he believed Mr. Burris will be sworn in this week. The Chicago Tribune has more here. It appears the swearing in will be tomorrow or Thursday, depending on the availability of Vice-President Dick Cheney who will preside over the swearing in.
--------------------
Hillary Clinton confirmation hearings begin today - in another strange twist, the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, chaired by Senator John Kerry (D-Mass.) will hold the first confirmation hearing for Clinton. John Kerry had lobbied hard for the position of Secretary of State and had to settled for the chair of the foreign relations committee which became open when Joe Biden was selected as Vice-President. The NY Times has more here.
--------------------
Meanwhile, NY Governor David Paterson says his interview with Caroline Kennedy was impressive - The Governor had sent 15 potential candidates a questionnaire to be answered as he worked toward making his selection to fill the soon to be vacant Hillary Clinton Senate seat. He is following up with individual interviews. The NY Daily News has more here.
--------------------
While over in Minnesota, the lone remaining undecided contest results in an unfilled senate seat - Al Franken (D) had been certified the winner by the Illinois canvassing board after the conclusion of the state mandated recount. However, incumbent Norm Coleman, as allowed under state law, has filed suit contesting the results. When Al Franken asked Minnesota Governor Tim Pawlenty (R) and the Secretary of State to issue a election certificate, he was turned down due the the lawsuit pending by the Coleman campaign. It appears this seating of a Senator from Minnesota will take a little longer. MSNBC.com has more here.
--------------------
Obama set to order the closing of Guantanamo Bay prison - it is likely he will order in the first week of his presidency, the closing of Gitmo, the military prison used to house suspected Terrorists under the Bush administration. CNN.com has more here.
--------------------
To receive "Daily Email Updates" from Air-it-Out with George Wenschhof, click on "Subscribe to the feed" below.
Monday, January 12, 2009
Democratc Chatter 1-12-2009
George Wenschhof Bio
Today, President-elect Barack Obama will meet with Mexico President Felipe Calderon - The meeting will be held in Washington D.C. at the Mexican Cultural Institute. Time.com has more here. It is now eight days until Inauguration Day.
--------------------
Obama begins public service announcements asking people to make commitments to serve their communities - these announcements will be on TV as well as radio. The Presidential Inaugural Committee website has a video here. The President-elect encourages everyone to get involved through USAService.Org.
--------------------
Vice President-elect Joe Biden is in Iraq - after traveling to Pakistan and Afghanistan, he arrived in Baghdad today and is expected to meet with President Talibani. Reuters.com has more here.
--------------------
Israel continues fighting in Gaza - the aerial bombardment and ground invasion continued as the death count neared 900 with another 3700 Palestinians injured, many of them civilians. This recent flare up between Hamas and Israel has President-elect Obama committed to breaking the deadlock between them. CNN.com has more here.
--------------------
Roland Burris may be seated in the Senate this week - Democratic leaders continue to backpedal from their earlier stance they would not seat the Senator appointed by embattled Illinois Governor Rod Blagojevich. Seems that now they are awaiting a statement from the Senate Parliamentarian and legal counsel after Burris submitted documents including the signature of Illinois Secretary of Sate Jesse White. Politico.com has more here.
--------------------
To receive "Daily Email Updates" from Air-it-Out with George Wenschhof, click on "Subscribe to this feed" below.
Sunday, January 11, 2009
Democratic Chatter 1-11-2009
George Wenschhof Bio
President-elect Barack Obama appears on ABC "This Week" airing this morning - make sure you check it out. He discusses the economy, tax cuts, and how all Americans must sacrifice. He says his stimulus bill should be introduced in Congress tomorrow. If you miss the show, ABC News has some video clips of segments of the show you can watch here.
Yesterday, Obama was busy getting around his new home town. In the afternoon, accompanied by D.C. Mayor Adrian Fenty, he stopped by Ben's Chili Bowl for some good eats. In the evening, his family visited the Lincoln Memorial.
--------------------
Confirmation Hearings for Eric Holder for Attorney General to begin Thursday - this may not be smooth sailing as republicans have been bringing up his role in the pardon of Marc Rich at the end of the Clinton administration. The more recent scrutiny has been on his private sector consulting business and his client list. The NY Times has more here.
--------------------
Will Roland Burris return to D.C. and demand his Illinois Senate seat? - the Governor Blagojevich saga continues.... After the Supreme Court ruled the Burris appointment was legitimate, secretary of state Jesse White certified the appointment, removing the obstacle that Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid said prevented him from seating Burris in the Senate. Democratic leadership has not handle this situation well to date and another refusal of seating Burris in the Senate will likely result in a lawsuit which will further exacerbate a bad situation. Politico.com has more here.
--------------------
Israel continues ground offensive in Gaza - over two weeks of fighting now has Israeli tanks and troops entering the Gaza Strip's largest town, Gaza city. Repeated calls for a cease-fire has been rejected and there is no indication as to when Israel would begin to withdraw it's troops from Gaza. Reuters.com has more here.
--------------------
To receive "Daily Email Updates" from Air-it-Out with George Wenschhof, click on "Subscribe to this feed" below.
Saturday, January 10, 2009
Democratic Chatter 1-10-2009
George Wenschhof Bio
President-elect Barack Obama continues focus on the economy in his weekly address - he spoke today on how his proposed 800 Billion to 1 Trillion Economic Recovery and Reinvestment Plan will create up to 4 million jobs by 2010. Swamppolitics.com has the video of his address here.
--------------------
Vice-President elect Joe Biden continues overseas trip - He left Pakistan and is now in Afghanistan where he is expected to meet with President Hamid Karzai. Reuters .com has more here.
--------------------
"Blago watch" continues - Illinois Governor Rod Blagojevich's actions continues to drive Democrats crazy. Questions abound as to how to handle his appointment of Roland Burris to the vacant Obama Senate seat. The state supreme court ruled Burris did not need to have the signature of the state Secretary of State to be appointed and Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid had refused to accept Burris without the signature. Jesse White, the Secretary of State has not signed the certification so stay tuned. Meanwhile, the Illinois House voted to impeach the Governor. CNN.com has more here.
--------------------
Obama Cabinet Confirmation hearings begin - Tom Daschle's initial hearing for Health and Human Services went smoothly and Hilda L. Solis for Labor Secretary received some tough questions from Republicans over her support for Unions. Politico.com has more here.
--------------------
To receive "Daily Email Updates" from Air-it-Out with George Wenschhof, Click on "Subscribe to this feed" below.
Sunday Morning "Talking Heads" 1-11-2009
George Wenschhof Bio
This Sunday will mark nine days until Inauguration Day and this morning will feature the incumbent President George W. Bush and President-elect Barack Obama. As always, there is plenty to discuss.
Expect analysis of the impeachment vote by the Illinois House of Governor Rod Blagojevich and of course what to do with Roland Burris. Burris was appointed by Blagojevich to the vacant Obama Senate seat and this move has set constitutional lawyers and Democratic Leaders scrambling trying to figure out the correct action to take in regard to the appointment.
Did someone mention the economy continues to tank? Two bills in this area likely to receive some attention this Sunday morning. One is the 700 Billion Troubled Asset Relief Bill (TARP) of which 350 Billion remains to be allocated by Congress. The biggest issue is no one knows how the first 350 Billion was spent other than it wasn't on troubled assets. The other bill the President-elect wants to have introduced this week in Congress is his American Recovery and Reinvestment Plan which could reach a price tag of 1 Trillion.
Sure to also receive some discussion from the pundits is the current Israel - Hamas conflict in the Gaza strip. The UN voted 14-0 with the U.S. abstaining for an immedtiate cease fire. Was this action by Israel timed to take advantage of the last few weeks of the lame duck administration of George W. Bush?
Following is the list of the Sunday Morning "Talk Shows" with their scheduled guests. Remember to check your local listings for channel and time.
NBC "Meet The Press" - Dick Gregory settling in as the new host, has Bill Cosby, Dr. Alvin Poussaunt, D.C. Mayor Adrian Fenty, Representative Maxine Waters (D-Calf.). The roundtable discussion will include John Harwood, David Bonior, Paul Gigot, Mark Zandi and Bethany McLean.
ABC "This Week" - George Stephanopoulos interviews President-elect Barack Obama. The roundtable discussion will have Peggy Noonan, Newt Gingrich, George Will, and Tom Friedman.
CBS "Face The Nation" - Bob Schieffer lands Senator in limbo Roland Burris (D-Ill.), Representative John Boehner (R-Ohio) and Senator Dick Durbin (D-Ill.).
Fox News Sunday - Chris Wallace interviews former President George H.W. Bush and current President George W. Bush.
CNN "Late Edition" - Dick Cheney and House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calf.). Political analysts David Gergen and James Carville.
--------------------
To receive "Daily Email Updates" from Air-it-Out with George Wenschhof, click on "Subscribe to this feed" below.
Thursday, January 8, 2009
Democratic Chatter 1-8-2009
George Wenschhof Bio
Today, President-elect Barack Obama will give speech on his economic recovery plan - he will give the speech at 11:00 AM at George Mason University in Fairfax, Virginia. ThrPage.time.com has some of the excerpts from his speech here.
Obama will also meet later today with Virginia Governor Tim Kaine who he chose to be the new Democratic National committee Chair.
--------------------
Jobless claims reach 4.6 million - this is the highest level in 26 years. Bloomberg.com has more here.
--------------------
The appointment of Roland Burris to the vacant Illinois Senate seat gathers support - seems Mr. Burris will testify today in front of the Illinois state Governor Blagojevich impeachment committee. He could then receive the certification by the state leading to his seating in the Senate. The handling of this situation by Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-Nev.) has also drawn questions. The Washington Post has more here.
--------------------
Tom Daschle Confirmation Hearing for Secretary of Health and Human services begins today - next Tuesday it will be Senator Hillary Clinton who begins the confirmation process for her appointment to Secretary of State. MSNBC.com has more here.
--------------------
Former Maryland Lt. Governor Michael Steele receives Florida Republican Party Chair endorsement - Jim Greer was expected to run himself for the chair of the Republican National Committee, but instead announced his support for Michael Steele for the position. CNN.com has more here.
--------------------
To receive "Daily Email Updates" from Air-it-Out with George Wenschhof, click on "Subscribe to this feed" below.
Wednesday, January 7, 2009
Democratic Chatter 1-7-2009
George Wenschhof Bio
President-elect Barack Obama will hold a press conference this morning - he will be discussing the need for fiscal restraint in addition to the massive stimulus program that is needed to get the economy back on track. He is expected to also name a new White House position, the chief performance officer. This position would help to set performance standards for government agencies which would hold managers accountable. Time.com has more here. Those of us who live in Maryland, have seen a similar system put in place by Governor Martin O'Malley.
Obama will also have lunch today at the White House today with President George W. Bush, and former Presidents George H.W. Bush, Bill Clinton and Jimmy Carter.
--------------------
Blagojevich pick of Burris to fill vacant Illinois Obama Senate seat may stand - the initial move by Senate Democratic Leaders to block the swearing in of Burris yesterday may be losing support. Politico.com has more here. It is unfortunate that a Governor who has been arrested picked Mr. Burris but there has been no indictment by U.S. Attorney Patrick Fitzgerald, who recently requested a 90 day extension before issuing an indictment. California Senator Diane Feinstein (D) also said yesterday that Burris should be seated. Today, Burris is meeting with democratic senate Leaders Harry Reid (D-Nev.) and Dick Durbin (D-Ill.). One rumor has it that if Burris would agree to serve the remaining two years of the term and not run for reelection in 2010, he would be seated. Looks like the pendulum is swinging and Burris may not have to agree to any compromise.
--------------------
In Minnesota, Coleman files suit challenging the election - the state canvassing board certified Democrat Al Franken the winner by 225 votes over Republican incumbent Norm Coleman. However, Minnesota law allows a candidate to file suit challenging the election within seven days of the certification. The Coleman campaign's move to file suit means the Senate seat will remain vacant until the suit is decided. It is anticipated it will take weeks and possibly months before an outcome. TheHill.com has more here.
--------------------
Dr. Sanjay Gupta under consideration for U.S. Surgeon General - we know him as the medical correspondent for CNN. He is also a practicing neurosurgeon. His impressive medical experience along with his communication skills would make him a excellent pick for this position. Stay Tuned. CNN.com has more here.
--------------------
Conditions for the release of the additional 350 Billion TARP funds being negotiated - Bloomberg.com has more here. You may recall the first 350 Billion from the Trouble Assets relief Program went directly to financial institutions without any accountability. We still do not know how those funds were spent. Representative Barney Frank (D-Mass.), the head of the House Financial Services Committee has been negotiating terms for the release of the additional 350 Billion which would include more of what the plan initially called for including relief on foreclosures. Also requiring more loans to be made available and to restrict bonuses to executives.
--------------------
To receive "Daily Email Updates" from Air-it-Out with George Wenschhof, click on "Subscribe to this feed" below.
Tuesday, January 6, 2009
Democratic Chatter 1-6-2009
George Wenschhof Bio
President-elect Barack Obama to meet with his economic team today - it is now two weeks until Inauguration Day and today he will be discussing the budget, the economy and ways to reduce the spiraling budget deficit facing the national budget. ThePage.Time.com has more here.
--------------------
New Congress to be sworn in today - the perfunctory action has added drama this year as Roland Burris will show up to be sworn in as the new Senator from Illinois and Al Franken may show up as the new Senator from Minnesota. Senate Majority Leader has said neither one will be seated. For Burris, it is due to the cloud surrounding Illinois Governor Rod Blagojevich who appointed him to fill the vacant Obama Senate seat. For Franken, it is due to the legal challenges to be filed by his opponent Norm Coleman. Franken was declared the winner by 225 votes yesterday by the state canvassing board after the recount of 2.9 million votes. Coleman has seven days to file a legal challenge before the vote can be certified.
--------------------
Obama announces Panetta for CIA and Blair for National Intelligence - Retired Admiral Dennis Blair was expected to be named as Director of National Intelligence. The surprise pick, which is already drawing fire from the Hill, was Leon Panetta as CIA Director. Panetta was former chief of staff for the Clinton administration and has little intelligence field background. Senator Dianne Feinstein (D-Calf.) who will chair the Senate select Committee on intelligence said she was not consulted by the Obama administration and felt the position should be filled with someone with experience in the field. The Washington Post has more here.
--------------------
Xavier Becerra rumored to be a contender for Commerce Secretary - the eight term Democratic Representative from California had earlier been offered the position of U.S. Trade representative and he turned it down. With the withdrawal of Governor Richardson, Hispanic leaders have indicated they would like to see another Latino nominated for the position. You can read more here.
--------------------
NY Governor David Paterson sends questionnaire to contenders for Cinton's soon to be vacant Senate seat - Reportedly, the questionnaire was sent to Caroline Kennedy, Representatives Steve Israel, Carolyn Maloney, Kristen Gillibrand, and Jerrold Nadler. Also Nassau County Executive Thomas Suozzi. The NY Times has more here.
--------------------
Obama announces Justice Department picks - Dawn Johnson to head office of legal counsel, David Ogden for deputy attorney general, Elena Hagan for solicitor general, and Tom Perrelli as associate attorney general. They will be replacing those who provided the justification for the Bush administration use of harsh interrogation techniques, detention of terrorist suspects and more. McClatchydc.com has a good read here.
--------------------
To receive "Daily Email Updates" from Air-it-Out with George Wenschhof, click on "Subscribe to this feed" below.
Sunday, January 4, 2009
Democratic Chatter 1-4-2009
George Wenschhof Bio
President-elect Barack Obama heads to Washington D.C. today - he will join his wife and daughters who arrived in D.c. yesterday. It is now 16 days until Inauguration Day.
--------------------
Israel begins military ground campaign in Gaza - after eight days of air strikes, Israel has invaded Gaza. CNN.com has more here. This was a highly expected move by Israel as they want to disrupt the military presence of Hamas. This is one more serious international issue to confront the incoming Obama administration and his national security team. Over 400 have died and another 2500 have been injured since Israel began their air strikes.
--------------------
Will Roland Burris, Illinois Governor Blagojevich's appointment to fill the vacant Obama Senate seat show up Tuesday when Congress convenes on Tuesday? - we will find out shortly. Mr Burris, former Illinois State Attorney did schedule a meeting with Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-Nev.) for Wednesday. Also at that meeting will be Illinois senator and Assistant Majority Leader dick Durbin (D-Ill.) The Chicago Tribune Swamppolitics.com has more here.
--------------------
Terry McAuliffe announces run for Governor of Virginia - He was referred to by many as "McAwful" when he served as chair of the Democratic National Committee. He recently served as a national chair of Senator Clinton's Presidential campaign. His national contacts are sure to help him in fund raising but how he comes across to the voters is yet to be determined. TheHill.com has more on his announcement here.
--------------------
Al Franken's lead increases in Minnesota - the contested race for the Minnesota Senate seat continued with Democrat Al Franken increasing his lead to 225 over Republican incumbent Norm Coleman. This after 900 absentee ballots were counted. The Coleman campaign has asked the state Supreme court to add additional absentee ballots and that ruling is expected soon. However, it is not possible for the candidate to be certified prior to when Congress convenes on Tuesday. In addition, the losing candidate has seven days after the state canvassing board has indicated the winner to file suit in court. Minnesota Republican Governor Tim Pawlenty has indicated he will not have the state certify the winner until all legal challenges are over. Politico.com has more here.
--------------------
To receive "daily Email Updates" from Air-it-Out with George Wenschhof, click on "Subscribe to this feed" below.
Friday, January 2, 2009
Democratic Chatter 1-2-2009
George Wenschhof Bio
President-elect Barack Obama and family will move to D.C. this weekend - In the first of two moves prior to occupying the White House, they will stay at the Hays-Adams Hotel. Due to prior commitments they were unable to move into the government owned Blair House until January 15. The reason for the earlier move is the daughters begin school next week. CNN.com has more here.
--------------------
Obama to meet with Congressional leaders today to discuss his stimulus bill - He is meeting with House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calf.) and Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-Nev.) He will also meet with Republican Congressional Leaders John Boehner and Mitch McConnell. Reuters .com has more here.
--------------------
Israel continues attack on Gaza - determined to defuse Hamas, Israel continued air strikes for the seventh day and were poised for a ground invasion. The NY Times has more here. Some reports have indicated the Israeli military favor a short term ground attack aimed at further rooting out Hamas supporters. Meanwhile, the Arab states in the region are condemning the air strikes and the French continue to negotiate a cease fire.
The last time this military action took place under the same circumstances, Hamas was able to gain favor with the innocent civilians by offering aid. Hopefully, that will be remembered and humanitarian aid is provided by Israel and the UN as soon as possible.
--------------------
Can Democrats stop Roland Burris from being seated as Senator? - embattled Governor Rod Blagojevich (D-Ill.) continues to cause problems for Democrats at a time when there is a lot to cheer about. His recent appointment of Roland Burris to the Senate seat vacated by Barack Obama is sure to generate more angst among Democratic leaders who are saying they will not seat Burris if he shows up next week.
It promises to be a awkward situation for Democrats who would prefer to be putting their best foot forward after decisive victories on Election Day. A referral of the appointment to the senate credentials committee could take place, but that would involve up to a ninety day review, resulting in more testimony and attention. Failing to seat the only African-American Senator would also cause heartburn for many. The best move may be to seat him. Politico.com has more here.
--------------------
Another Illinois seat now open with Rahm Emanuel's resignation - he sent his letter of resignation to Governor Blagojevich effective today. The state Constitution requires the Governor to set a election date within 115 days. Interestingly, vacant Senate seats receive immediate appointment, while vacant seats of Representatives in Congress are filled by special election. TheHill.com speculates on who may run and you can read their take on the possible candidates here.
--------------------
To receive "Daily Email Updates" from Air-it-Out with George Wenschhof, click on "Subscribe to this feed" below.
Thursday, January 1, 2009
Democratic Chatter 1-1-2009
George Wenschhof Bio
President-elect Barack Obama and his family end vacation today - They will be leaving Hawaii this afternoon and head to Chicago. Then it is moving time to Washington D.C. over the weekend. In 19 days they will be moving into the White House. The Honolulu Star Bulletin has more here.
--------------------
Israel Air Strikes on Gaza continue - It is now the sixth day of this recent conflict and Israel troops remain on the border of Gaza. The Israel air strikes have targeted the infrastructure of Hamas. Hamas has also continued to launch rockets against Israel. Meanwhile, the French continue to attempt to broker a cease-fire. The NY Times has more here.
--------------------
"Blago-watch" - the appointment of Roland Burris to the vacant Illinois Senate seat by Governor Rod Blagojevich is the latest chapter of this saga surround the Governor. Burris has now asked the Illinois Supreme Court to ensure he is certified by the Illinois Secretary of State. This move by the Governor to appoint Burris has left Democratic leaders scrambling as to how to respond. Politico.com has more here.
U.S. attorney Patrick Fitzgerald has also asked the court for a ninety day extension to indict Governor Rod Blagojevich. MSNBC.com has more here.
--------------------
Minnesota Senate race update - the dispute over the counting of remaining absentee ballots continues with Republican incumbent Norm Coleman filing an appeal to the state supreme court. Democrat Al Franken holds a slim 47 vote lead after the state canvassing board finished tabulating the recount vote. The state court has ruled that an additional 1350 absentee ballots which were improperly disqualified be counted and the Coleman campaign is now seeking to add absentee ballots to that figure. TheHill.com has more here.
--------------------
Senate to begin confirmation hearings on Obama Cabinet appointments next week - first up on January 8 will be Tom Daschle who was nominated for Secretary of Health and Human Services. Hilda Solis, nominated for Labor Secretary will follow on January 9. Eric Holder, the Attorney General nominee is scheduled for January 15. The NY Times has more on the schedule here.
--------------------
Wall Street Losses in 2008 worst since Great Depression - 6.9 Trillion was lost last year which represented approximately a 33% loss of value in one year. The Washington Post has more here.
--------------------
To receive "Daily Email Updates from Air-it-Out with George Wenschhof, click on "Subscribe to this feed" below.
