Good morning . . .
Preparations for moving and beginning my new position are taking more time and energy than I thought.
Therefore, Check This Out! is going on hiatus for the next several weeks.
We hope to be back online in time for the confirmation hearings of Judge John Roberts.
See you soon.
Wednesday, July 20, 2005
Wednesday, July 13, 2005
Wednesday Update - The press goes wild -7.13.05
Top Story
Summers in Washington are hot, muggy, and just plain uncomfortable. The Washington press corps is just looking for a story, any story. And they are not above creating story to fit their agenda.
This is the case with the White House press corps. Led by Terry Moran (ABC) and John Roberts (CBS), the press has taken to beating up on White House Press Secretary Scott McClellan. Since Monday, Roberts, Moran, and company have rudely and inappropriately demanded that McClellan comment on an on-going investigation into who leaked the identity of a CIA employee to Robert Novak and Matt Cooper.
Cooper says that Special Assistant to the President Karl Rove told him that the wife of Joe Wilson was an employee of the "agency." In Washington-speak that can only mean the CIA. Valerie Plame was an employee of the agency and is Joe Wilson's wife. She is or was NOT an uncover operative, did not travel overseas, and did research on WMDs. It is her, not VP Dick Cheney, that recommended that Wilson go to Niger to investigate reports that Iraq was trying to buy "yellow cake" uranium from Niger. Wilson made up a report while relaxing on the beach and talking to several locals. His report has been refuted by the British, the 911 Commission, and several other investigative groups.
The fact that Karl Rove is somehow involved in the story is "fresh meat" for the media sharks. They believe Rove is evil and want to do anything, including lie, to bring him down.
This is another example of the liberal-bias present in the news media and, specifically, in the White House Press corps. Moran and Roberts should have their credentials pulled and CBS and ABC should have limited access to the president or other members of the administration.
There is freedom of the press, but when the press demonstrates that truth is only a side issue and innuendo and rumor are their "truth," it is time to seek other more reliable sources.
In addition to the flap over the Rove story, a survey was released by the Center for Media and Public Affairs, a non-partisan group, shows that negative stories about the president and his administration are much higher than normally expected.
The survey shows more than two-thirds of press reports on the president in the 100 days following his inauguration for a second term were negative.
ABC showed the most negative bias with 78% of their stories negative. CBS was 71% negative. And NBC called the most "balanced" was 57% negative.
This survey should come as no surprise to anyone.
Networks Pounce on Leaked E-mail to Begin Push for Firing Rove --7/12/2005-- Media Research Center
Tags: Karl Rove, White House Press
--
Chief Justice William H. Rehnquist is in a Virginia hospital with a high fever. Rehnquist who is recovering from thyroid cancer was taken to the hospital Tuesday evening.
There was no report on his condition this afternoon.
The hospitalization of the 80 year-old jurist is likely to create speculation about his ability to lead the Supreme Court.
Rehnquist Hospitalized for Fever in Va. - Yahoo! News
Tags: Supreme Court, Chief Justice William H. Rehnquist
--
A federal judge returned to the bench months after the killing of her mother and husband.
US District Judge Joan Lefkow took the bench Tuesday trying to remain low key. She heard several routine civil cases. According to court officials, she plans to work on a limited basis for a few months and then return to the bench fulltime.
Lefkow continues to receive 24-hour protection from the US Marshalls office.
Judge Back at Work Months After Murders - Yahoo! News
Tag: Joan Lefkow
--
More tomorrow.
Summers in Washington are hot, muggy, and just plain uncomfortable. The Washington press corps is just looking for a story, any story. And they are not above creating story to fit their agenda.
This is the case with the White House press corps. Led by Terry Moran (ABC) and John Roberts (CBS), the press has taken to beating up on White House Press Secretary Scott McClellan. Since Monday, Roberts, Moran, and company have rudely and inappropriately demanded that McClellan comment on an on-going investigation into who leaked the identity of a CIA employee to Robert Novak and Matt Cooper.
Cooper says that Special Assistant to the President Karl Rove told him that the wife of Joe Wilson was an employee of the "agency." In Washington-speak that can only mean the CIA. Valerie Plame was an employee of the agency and is Joe Wilson's wife. She is or was NOT an uncover operative, did not travel overseas, and did research on WMDs. It is her, not VP Dick Cheney, that recommended that Wilson go to Niger to investigate reports that Iraq was trying to buy "yellow cake" uranium from Niger. Wilson made up a report while relaxing on the beach and talking to several locals. His report has been refuted by the British, the 911 Commission, and several other investigative groups.
The fact that Karl Rove is somehow involved in the story is "fresh meat" for the media sharks. They believe Rove is evil and want to do anything, including lie, to bring him down.
This is another example of the liberal-bias present in the news media and, specifically, in the White House Press corps. Moran and Roberts should have their credentials pulled and CBS and ABC should have limited access to the president or other members of the administration.
There is freedom of the press, but when the press demonstrates that truth is only a side issue and innuendo and rumor are their "truth," it is time to seek other more reliable sources.
In addition to the flap over the Rove story, a survey was released by the Center for Media and Public Affairs, a non-partisan group, shows that negative stories about the president and his administration are much higher than normally expected.
The survey shows more than two-thirds of press reports on the president in the 100 days following his inauguration for a second term were negative.
ABC showed the most negative bias with 78% of their stories negative. CBS was 71% negative. And NBC called the most "balanced" was 57% negative.
This survey should come as no surprise to anyone.
Networks Pounce on Leaked E-mail to Begin Push for Firing Rove --7/12/2005-- Media Research Center
Tags: Karl Rove, White House Press
--
Chief Justice William H. Rehnquist is in a Virginia hospital with a high fever. Rehnquist who is recovering from thyroid cancer was taken to the hospital Tuesday evening.
There was no report on his condition this afternoon.
The hospitalization of the 80 year-old jurist is likely to create speculation about his ability to lead the Supreme Court.
Rehnquist Hospitalized for Fever in Va. - Yahoo! News
Tags: Supreme Court, Chief Justice William H. Rehnquist
--
A federal judge returned to the bench months after the killing of her mother and husband.
US District Judge Joan Lefkow took the bench Tuesday trying to remain low key. She heard several routine civil cases. According to court officials, she plans to work on a limited basis for a few months and then return to the bench fulltime.
Lefkow continues to receive 24-hour protection from the US Marshalls office.
Judge Back at Work Months After Murders - Yahoo! News
Tag: Joan Lefkow
--
More tomorrow.
Monday, July 11, 2005
Monday Briefing - London Investigation Has a Possible Suspect - 7.11.05
Top Story
The recovery of victims and the investigation into the bombings in London last Thursday continues.
Reports show the coordination of the explosions was much closer than originally thought. The explosions went off within seconds of each other instead of minutes. It is still believed that no suicide bombers were involved.
Rescue/recovery workers are still probing the wreckage of one of the underground cars. The death toll is close to 60 with more deaths expected.
As British police continue to investigate over 1700 "tips," UK media is reporting the name of a possible suspect connected to al-Qaeda.
Mustafa Setmarian Nasar lived in London in the 1990s and later ran a training camp in Afghanistan. He is also suspected of leading the attacks in Madrid in March 2004.
London Bomb Probe Continues, Suspect's Name Emerges -- 07/11/2005
Tags: London
--
Sen. Dick Durbin's (D-IL) staff continues to do damages control after Durbin compared US interrogators at Guantanamo Bay to Nazis, Soviets, and followers of Pol Pot. Durbin eventually apologized for his remarks, but it was an unapologetic apology. Durbin, and many of his liberal friends, believe and mean what they say.
There was no confusing or misunderstanding of Durbin's statement.
Durbin's office, however, is trying to silence critics by threatening an IRS audit.
Move America Forward, a conservative group that supports the US military and wants to eject the United Nations from the US, is currently running ads critical of Durbin.
"But these aren't the faces of torturers, the ad says: "They're the heroic men and women of the U.S. Armed Forces. They're our sons and daughters fighting for the cause of freedom around the world. Support our troops, at MoveAmericaForward.com."
While understanding that major media will question the motives from the Durbin office, a Durbin staffer hinted to a small suburban Chicago newspaper that the IRS should look at Move Forward America's ad.
Someone from Durbin's office was quoted as telling the newspaper - in connection with Move America Forward -- "Have you ever seen that H&R Block commercial where the guy leans in and says, 'I see an audit'?"
"For the office of a United States senator to threaten reprisals from the IRS against an organization that is supporting our troops in harm's way is absolutely reprehensible," said Mark Washburn, executive director of Move America Forward.
In addition to the IRS threat, Durbin's staff is also presurring Illinois television stations not to run the ads. This is a tactic out of the failed Kerry campaign strategy that threatened to sue television stations that run ads for the Swift Boat Veterans for Truth organization.
It seems the senator and his staff are running a little scared. With the number of military and Jewish votes in Illinois, Durbin may win the primary, but if there is a viable Republican candidate, Durbin will lose in November 2006.
Durbin's Staff Trying to Silence Critics, Group Says -- 07/11/2005
Tag: Dic Durbin
--
Sen. Hillary Clinton (D-NY) is running for President. Her campaign for re-election to the Senate is a sham. She will not serve out her term and she will forget any promise to do so. New York Republicans must find a candidate to beat her.
Her rhetoric of late is strictly anti-Bush, anti-Republicans, and anti-conservative. This is not much different than her normal rhetoric, but she is moving it to a national level. Sen. Clinton is not above ridiculing the president or his policies.
In a speech Sunday, Clinton compared President Bush to cartoon character Alfred E. Newman, Mad magazine. "I sometimes feel that Alfred E. Newman is in charge in Washington," Clinton said referring to the freckle-faced Mad magazine character.
Clinton used the typical liberal attack blaming the president for a weak economy (which it is not) by overspending and giving tax breaks to the rich.
There is nothing new in the attacks by Clinton, but the speech was given to raise awareness of her presidential campaign and national status.
Las Vegas SUN: Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton Attacks Bush
Tag: Hillary CLinton
--
Outgoing NAACP Chairmen Julian Bond, not a friend of President Bush or conservatives,
was demanding the president attend the next NAACP convention. Bond accused the president of not paying attention to "black" needs.
The NAACP has invited the president to speak at the convention, but the White House has declined the invitation.
The reason for the decline is Bond himself. While asking the president to speak to the group, Bond's continual attacks on Bush and administration policies make it nearly impossible for the president to be received in an appropriate manner.
Many conservative blacks claim the NAACP is too liberal and backward-looking.
The departure of NAACP president Kwesi Mfume will make it harder for the president to accept. Although a liberal. Mfume is willing to listen to what the present has to say. Bond will not.
CNSNews.com -- News This Hour
Tags: NAACP , Julian Bond
--
More later.
The recovery of victims and the investigation into the bombings in London last Thursday continues.
Reports show the coordination of the explosions was much closer than originally thought. The explosions went off within seconds of each other instead of minutes. It is still believed that no suicide bombers were involved.
Rescue/recovery workers are still probing the wreckage of one of the underground cars. The death toll is close to 60 with more deaths expected.
As British police continue to investigate over 1700 "tips," UK media is reporting the name of a possible suspect connected to al-Qaeda.
Mustafa Setmarian Nasar lived in London in the 1990s and later ran a training camp in Afghanistan. He is also suspected of leading the attacks in Madrid in March 2004.
London Bomb Probe Continues, Suspect's Name Emerges -- 07/11/2005
Tags: London
--
Sen. Dick Durbin's (D-IL) staff continues to do damages control after Durbin compared US interrogators at Guantanamo Bay to Nazis, Soviets, and followers of Pol Pot. Durbin eventually apologized for his remarks, but it was an unapologetic apology. Durbin, and many of his liberal friends, believe and mean what they say.
There was no confusing or misunderstanding of Durbin's statement.
Durbin's office, however, is trying to silence critics by threatening an IRS audit.
Move America Forward, a conservative group that supports the US military and wants to eject the United Nations from the US, is currently running ads critical of Durbin.
"But these aren't the faces of torturers, the ad says: "They're the heroic men and women of the U.S. Armed Forces. They're our sons and daughters fighting for the cause of freedom around the world. Support our troops, at MoveAmericaForward.com."
While understanding that major media will question the motives from the Durbin office, a Durbin staffer hinted to a small suburban Chicago newspaper that the IRS should look at Move Forward America's ad.
Someone from Durbin's office was quoted as telling the newspaper - in connection with Move America Forward -- "Have you ever seen that H&R Block commercial where the guy leans in and says, 'I see an audit'?"
"For the office of a United States senator to threaten reprisals from the IRS against an organization that is supporting our troops in harm's way is absolutely reprehensible," said Mark Washburn, executive director of Move America Forward.
In addition to the IRS threat, Durbin's staff is also presurring Illinois television stations not to run the ads. This is a tactic out of the failed Kerry campaign strategy that threatened to sue television stations that run ads for the Swift Boat Veterans for Truth organization.
It seems the senator and his staff are running a little scared. With the number of military and Jewish votes in Illinois, Durbin may win the primary, but if there is a viable Republican candidate, Durbin will lose in November 2006.
Durbin's Staff Trying to Silence Critics, Group Says -- 07/11/2005
Tag: Dic Durbin
--
Sen. Hillary Clinton (D-NY) is running for President. Her campaign for re-election to the Senate is a sham. She will not serve out her term and she will forget any promise to do so. New York Republicans must find a candidate to beat her.
Her rhetoric of late is strictly anti-Bush, anti-Republicans, and anti-conservative. This is not much different than her normal rhetoric, but she is moving it to a national level. Sen. Clinton is not above ridiculing the president or his policies.
In a speech Sunday, Clinton compared President Bush to cartoon character Alfred E. Newman, Mad magazine. "I sometimes feel that Alfred E. Newman is in charge in Washington," Clinton said referring to the freckle-faced Mad magazine character.
Clinton used the typical liberal attack blaming the president for a weak economy (which it is not) by overspending and giving tax breaks to the rich.
There is nothing new in the attacks by Clinton, but the speech was given to raise awareness of her presidential campaign and national status.
Las Vegas SUN: Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton Attacks Bush
Tag: Hillary CLinton
--
Outgoing NAACP Chairmen Julian Bond, not a friend of President Bush or conservatives,
was demanding the president attend the next NAACP convention. Bond accused the president of not paying attention to "black" needs.
The NAACP has invited the president to speak at the convention, but the White House has declined the invitation.
The reason for the decline is Bond himself. While asking the president to speak to the group, Bond's continual attacks on Bush and administration policies make it nearly impossible for the president to be received in an appropriate manner.
Many conservative blacks claim the NAACP is too liberal and backward-looking.
The departure of NAACP president Kwesi Mfume will make it harder for the president to accept. Although a liberal. Mfume is willing to listen to what the present has to say. Bond will not.
CNSNews.com -- News This Hour
Tags: NAACP , Julian Bond
--
More later.
Saturday, July 09, 2005
Weekend Extra - Media Fuels Supreme Court Rumors - 7.9.05
Speculation over the retirements of several other Supreme Court Justices ran wild through Washington on Friday. At some point during the day, rumors had nearly every Justice retiring or resigning.
The media, traditional and online, ran with each and every rumor making it difficult to discern where the truth was. In fact, no one retired yesterday and there is no word on any pending retirements.
One intrepid reporter tracked down Chief Justice William H. Rehnquist and asked him when he would retire. The 80 year-old jurist responded, "That's for me to know and you to find out." Way to go Mr. Rehnquist.
Of course, much of the speculation online was fueled by the less than dependable Drudge Report. The headline there was "Media on standby after growing reports Supreme Court Chief Justice Rehnquist is handing in his resignation ... DEVELOPING."
With the president returning from the G8 conference, it was a slow news day in Washington. So, media types decided to fill the air with rumor and speculation.
Yes, it is possible that Chief Justice Rehnquist will retire, but he is likely to hold off until President Bush names a replacement for Justice Sandra Day O'Connor.
Supreme Court Speculation Fuels Rumors - Yahoo! News
Tags: Supreme Court , Cheif Justice William H. Rehnquist
--
Meanwhile the partisan bickering and complaining has begun in earnest. The president has yet to name a replacement for Justice O'Connor, but Democrats and liberals are ready to fight whoever Bush selects.
The message from the Senate Democrats is unclear. It depends on who is the real leader for Senate democrats. If it is Ted Kennedy (D-MA), the debate will rage for months or years. There will be a protracted filibuster. If it is Harry Reid (D-NV), there could be a filibuster, but his position changes daily. If it is Charles Schumer (D-NY), the candidates will be asked questions on how the WOULD rule on "hot button" issues, like abortion. Senate Republicans have already said that Schumer's questions would be inappropriate and shoe a lack of understanding of the confirmation process and tradition.
Senate Democrats, more than anything else, want to control the nomination process to the point of picking the nominee or telling the president that any nominee he sends to the Senate will have a tough confirmation process.
The Democrats want to know, specifically, who the president is considering before he send any nomination to the Senate. That's not "advise and consent" that's "we want to select the nominee for you." "We want to 'bash' the nominee before we see who it is." "We want to tell our liberal friends who the nominee is so they can begin ads on TV against the nominee."
Much of this has already been done with speculation that the president may nominate Attorney General Alberto Gonzales to the post. Both liberal and conservatives are saying Gonzales is not qualified and does not have the proper "temperament" to be a Supreme Court Justice. Gonzales was a Texas Supreme Court Justice before joining the Bush administration.
"To be meaningful, consultation should include who the president is really considering so we can give responsive and useful advice," Senator Kennedy said. Again, tell us who you will nominate or anybody will have a tough confirmation process.
Sen. Harry Reid (D-NV) has said that he would like a Justice in the mold of liberal icon Chief Justice Earl Warren. The Warren Court was one of the worst in history. Warren lead the commission into the assassination of President Kennedy that was so full of flaws and missed evidence that it has fueled speculation for decades. The Warren Court is also responsible for many decision that bolstered the rights or criminals and would considered today as an activist court. If there is anything the country does not need it is another Supreme Court Justice like Earl Warren. Sen Reid you are living in a dream world.
Will there be a filibuster on the president's nominee? Yes, there is no doubt about. It will be led by Sens. Kennedy and Schumer. Many of the 7 "moderate" Democrats who agreed to only filibuster in an "extraordinary circumstance," will find any nominee of the president's to meet that criteria. It is likely that Sen. Robert Byrd (D-WV) will be the first to break the agreement.
At that point it will be up to Senate Majority Leader Bill Frist (R-TN) to recover his leadership and, finally, put into place a ban on judicial nominee filibusters. If he does not, there will not be a full Supreme Court until after a new president is elected in 2008.
Dems Want Talks With Bush on Nominees - Yahoo! News
Tage: Supreme Court
--
More on Monday.
The media, traditional and online, ran with each and every rumor making it difficult to discern where the truth was. In fact, no one retired yesterday and there is no word on any pending retirements.
One intrepid reporter tracked down Chief Justice William H. Rehnquist and asked him when he would retire. The 80 year-old jurist responded, "That's for me to know and you to find out." Way to go Mr. Rehnquist.
Of course, much of the speculation online was fueled by the less than dependable Drudge Report. The headline there was "Media on standby after growing reports Supreme Court Chief Justice Rehnquist is handing in his resignation ... DEVELOPING."
With the president returning from the G8 conference, it was a slow news day in Washington. So, media types decided to fill the air with rumor and speculation.
Yes, it is possible that Chief Justice Rehnquist will retire, but he is likely to hold off until President Bush names a replacement for Justice Sandra Day O'Connor.
Supreme Court Speculation Fuels Rumors - Yahoo! News
Tags: Supreme Court , Cheif Justice William H. Rehnquist
--
Meanwhile the partisan bickering and complaining has begun in earnest. The president has yet to name a replacement for Justice O'Connor, but Democrats and liberals are ready to fight whoever Bush selects.
The message from the Senate Democrats is unclear. It depends on who is the real leader for Senate democrats. If it is Ted Kennedy (D-MA), the debate will rage for months or years. There will be a protracted filibuster. If it is Harry Reid (D-NV), there could be a filibuster, but his position changes daily. If it is Charles Schumer (D-NY), the candidates will be asked questions on how the WOULD rule on "hot button" issues, like abortion. Senate Republicans have already said that Schumer's questions would be inappropriate and shoe a lack of understanding of the confirmation process and tradition.
Senate Democrats, more than anything else, want to control the nomination process to the point of picking the nominee or telling the president that any nominee he sends to the Senate will have a tough confirmation process.
The Democrats want to know, specifically, who the president is considering before he send any nomination to the Senate. That's not "advise and consent" that's "we want to select the nominee for you." "We want to 'bash' the nominee before we see who it is." "We want to tell our liberal friends who the nominee is so they can begin ads on TV against the nominee."
Much of this has already been done with speculation that the president may nominate Attorney General Alberto Gonzales to the post. Both liberal and conservatives are saying Gonzales is not qualified and does not have the proper "temperament" to be a Supreme Court Justice. Gonzales was a Texas Supreme Court Justice before joining the Bush administration.
"To be meaningful, consultation should include who the president is really considering so we can give responsive and useful advice," Senator Kennedy said. Again, tell us who you will nominate or anybody will have a tough confirmation process.
Sen. Harry Reid (D-NV) has said that he would like a Justice in the mold of liberal icon Chief Justice Earl Warren. The Warren Court was one of the worst in history. Warren lead the commission into the assassination of President Kennedy that was so full of flaws and missed evidence that it has fueled speculation for decades. The Warren Court is also responsible for many decision that bolstered the rights or criminals and would considered today as an activist court. If there is anything the country does not need it is another Supreme Court Justice like Earl Warren. Sen Reid you are living in a dream world.
Will there be a filibuster on the president's nominee? Yes, there is no doubt about. It will be led by Sens. Kennedy and Schumer. Many of the 7 "moderate" Democrats who agreed to only filibuster in an "extraordinary circumstance," will find any nominee of the president's to meet that criteria. It is likely that Sen. Robert Byrd (D-WV) will be the first to break the agreement.
At that point it will be up to Senate Majority Leader Bill Frist (R-TN) to recover his leadership and, finally, put into place a ban on judicial nominee filibusters. If he does not, there will not be a full Supreme Court until after a new president is elected in 2008.
Dems Want Talks With Bush on Nominees - Yahoo! News
Tage: Supreme Court
--
More on Monday.
Thursday, July 07, 2005
Thursday Briefing - Terror Attack in London - 7.7.05
Top Story
A well-organized orchestrated terrorist attack hit mass transportation hubs in London during rush hour. Early reports say that there are at least 150 injured and 4 are now confirmed dead. The seven blasts hit London's Underground (subway) and one of the famed double-decker buses.
An unknown al-Qaeda cell in Europe has claimed on its Internet sit responsibility for the attack saying, "Britain is now burning with fear." The claim has not be verified.
Prime Minister Tony Blair attending the G8 conference in Scotland told reporters he will return to London meetings with police officials and ministers, but he said the conference will continue in his absence.
Speaking to reporters before leaving Glengables, Blair said, "It is important that those engaged in terrorism realise that our determination to defend our values and our way of life is greater than their determination to cause death and destruction to innocent people in a desire to impose extremism on the world."
Terror experts say the timing and coordination of the attacks bore the hallmark of al-Qaeda attacks similar to the ones in Madrid.
More as this story develops.
Britain, UK news from The Times and The Sunday Times - Times Online
UPDATE
The Associated Press is reporting that the toll in the London bombings has now reached 40 dead with over 300 injured.
Tags: London, Terror Attacks, al-Qaeda
--
As NY Times reporter Judith Miller was taken to jail for refusing to obey a court order to reveal a source, analysts and pundits were concerned about the effect the incarceration will have on whistleblowers and confidential sources. Some say that confidential sources will dry up, others say that the willingness of Miller to go to jail could embolden some sources.
On the government side, Judge Thomas Hogan and special counsel Patrick Fitzgerald took the time to say they were not trying to deny reporters their sources. For his part, Hogan was following through on a contempt charge made in October. He noted that he gave Miller ample time to appeal the decision including an appeal to the US Supreme Court. Instead of agreeing to obey the court order, Miller arrogantly defied the court and is paying the price. Under Hogan's order, Miller will remain in jail until she agrees to testify and reveal her source or until the grand jury ends in October.
Hogan added that a Supreme Court decision 33 years ago that reporters could not always keep their sources confidential had not destroyed press coverage of government scandals, including Watergate.
N.Y. Times Reporter Jailed Over Source - Yahoo! News
Tags: Judith Miller, Shield Laws
--
More later.
A well-organized orchestrated terrorist attack hit mass transportation hubs in London during rush hour. Early reports say that there are at least 150 injured and 4 are now confirmed dead. The seven blasts hit London's Underground (subway) and one of the famed double-decker buses.
An unknown al-Qaeda cell in Europe has claimed on its Internet sit responsibility for the attack saying, "Britain is now burning with fear." The claim has not be verified.
Prime Minister Tony Blair attending the G8 conference in Scotland told reporters he will return to London meetings with police officials and ministers, but he said the conference will continue in his absence.
Speaking to reporters before leaving Glengables, Blair said, "It is important that those engaged in terrorism realise that our determination to defend our values and our way of life is greater than their determination to cause death and destruction to innocent people in a desire to impose extremism on the world."
Terror experts say the timing and coordination of the attacks bore the hallmark of al-Qaeda attacks similar to the ones in Madrid.
More as this story develops.
Britain, UK news from The Times and The Sunday Times - Times Online
UPDATE
The Associated Press is reporting that the toll in the London bombings has now reached 40 dead with over 300 injured.
Tags: London, Terror Attacks, al-Qaeda
--
As NY Times reporter Judith Miller was taken to jail for refusing to obey a court order to reveal a source, analysts and pundits were concerned about the effect the incarceration will have on whistleblowers and confidential sources. Some say that confidential sources will dry up, others say that the willingness of Miller to go to jail could embolden some sources.
On the government side, Judge Thomas Hogan and special counsel Patrick Fitzgerald took the time to say they were not trying to deny reporters their sources. For his part, Hogan was following through on a contempt charge made in October. He noted that he gave Miller ample time to appeal the decision including an appeal to the US Supreme Court. Instead of agreeing to obey the court order, Miller arrogantly defied the court and is paying the price. Under Hogan's order, Miller will remain in jail until she agrees to testify and reveal her source or until the grand jury ends in October.
Hogan added that a Supreme Court decision 33 years ago that reporters could not always keep their sources confidential had not destroyed press coverage of government scandals, including Watergate.
N.Y. Times Reporter Jailed Over Source - Yahoo! News
Tags: Judith Miller, Shield Laws
--
More later.
Wednesday, July 06, 2005
Wednesday Update - NY Times Reporter Jailed - 7.6.05
A federal judge kept his promise and jailed NY Times reporter Judith Miller for contempt. The judge charged Miller with criminal contempt in October for refusing to reveal the name of a source to a grand jury investigating a Bush Administration's leak of the name of a CIA operative.
Miller maintained that she would not reveal a source even with the possibility of jail. "There is still a realistic possibility that confinement might cause her to testify," U.S. District Judge Thomas Hogan said.
In an about face, Time magazine reporter Matthew Cooper told the judge that he would cooperate with a federal prosecutor's investigation. "I am prepared to testify. I will comply" with the court's order, Cooper said.
Last week Time released Cooper's notes to the court hoping he would not be compelled to testify. Federal Special Counsel Patrick Fitzgerald demanded that Cooper testify with or without the release of the notes.
Miller was escorted out of the courtroom to an undisclosed location. Miller had requested "home confinement" as her punishment, a request rejected by the prosecutor.
No date has been set for Cooper's testimony.
New York Times Reporter Is Jailed for Keeping Source Secret - New York Times
Tags: Judith Miller, Matthew Cooper
--
More tomorrow.
Miller maintained that she would not reveal a source even with the possibility of jail. "There is still a realistic possibility that confinement might cause her to testify," U.S. District Judge Thomas Hogan said.
In an about face, Time magazine reporter Matthew Cooper told the judge that he would cooperate with a federal prosecutor's investigation. "I am prepared to testify. I will comply" with the court's order, Cooper said.
Last week Time released Cooper's notes to the court hoping he would not be compelled to testify. Federal Special Counsel Patrick Fitzgerald demanded that Cooper testify with or without the release of the notes.
Miller was escorted out of the courtroom to an undisclosed location. Miller had requested "home confinement" as her punishment, a request rejected by the prosecutor.
No date has been set for Cooper's testimony.
New York Times Reporter Is Jailed for Keeping Source Secret - New York Times
Tags: Judith Miller, Matthew Cooper
--
More tomorrow.
Wednesdau Briefing - London Goes for the Gold - 7.6.05
Top Story
The only person shocked by the announcement that gave London the 2012 Summer Olympics Games is French President Jacques Chirac. Probably not, but the International Olympic Committee gave London the nod over Paris, Moscow, and New York.
The announcement came after a 54-50 vote on the fourth ballot. The campaign for the 2012 games was the most hotly contested is Olympics history. This is the third time in the last 20 years that Paris has lost its bid for the games. Paris last hosted the games in 1924. London hosted the games in 1948, the first post-war games.
The bidding and awarding process for the Winter and Summer Games has been under close scrutiny after it was discovered that many members of the IOC were taking "bribes" from cities and countries to host the games. Although never proven, speculation is the Salt Lake City games were awarded after substantial payments to IOC members. There is also speculation that there may have been some "gifts" from China to secure the 2008 games.
London Upsets Paris to Win 2012 Olympics - Yahoo! News
Tag: Olympic Games
--
A former senator has agreed to guide the next Supreme Court nominee through the confirmation process.
Sen. Fed Thompson (R-TN), also known for his acting roles in "Hunt for Red October" and "Law and Order," agreed to accept the post in a conversation with the president on Monday.
During his tenure in the Senate Thompson was on the Judiciary Committee and is familiar with the longtime members.
Senate Majority Leader Bill Frist (R-TN) praised the former senator for his no-"nonsense style."
"Fred is a well-respected leader admired on both sides of the political aisle as someone who is fair-minded and straightforward," Frist said in a statement. "He is experienced in the ways of Washington and will undoubtedly provide valuable insight and counsel throughout the confirmation process."
The appointment of Thompson to aide the nominee could signal that whoever the president nominates may be from "outside the beltway."
Ex-Sen. Thompson to Oversee Court Nominee - Yahoo! News
In a related story, President Bush said he will not select a Supreme Court nominee based on one issue, abortion.
The president urged the Senate to act in a "dignified way" during the confirmation process.
Bush said there would be no "litmus test" that qualifies candidates because of their opinions on abortion and same-sex marriage.
"I'll pick people who, one, can do the job, and people who are honest, people who are bright and people who will strictly interpret the Constitution and not use the bench to legislate from," Bush said.
Bush also responded to the criticism of Attorney General Alberto Gonzales as a potential nominee. "And all the sudden this fella, who is a good public servant and a really fine person, is under fire," Bush said. "And so do I like it? No, I don't like it. At all."
If the president selects Gonzales it would be the first time a Hispanic has been nominated for the Supreme Court.
Bush: Abortion Won't Decide Court Nominee - Yahoo! News
Tags: Fred Thompson, Alberto Gonzales, Supreme Court
--
Today US District Judge Thomas Hogan should decide the fate of Time reporter Matthew Cooper and NY Times reporter Judith Miller. Both have been charged with criminal contempt in October for failing to disclose under oath the identity of sources for a report on a leak of the name of a CIA operative.
To appease the court, Time magazine has released the notes of Cooper. It is there hope that the release of the documents will make it unnecessary for Cooper to testify. Miller has said she will not comply with the court's order even if it means jail.
Special Counsel Patrick Fitzgerald demanded that Cooper and Miller testify before a grand jury. Fitzgerald said in court papers that the source has waived his right to confidentiality and can find no reason for the reporters failure to comply with a court order.
"Journalists are not entitled to promise complete confidentiality — no one in America is," Special Counsel Patrick Fitzgerald told a judge.
More on this story as it becomes available.
Reporters Face Jail in Fight Over Sources - Yahoo! News
--
More later.
The only person shocked by the announcement that gave London the 2012 Summer Olympics Games is French President Jacques Chirac. Probably not, but the International Olympic Committee gave London the nod over Paris, Moscow, and New York.
The announcement came after a 54-50 vote on the fourth ballot. The campaign for the 2012 games was the most hotly contested is Olympics history. This is the third time in the last 20 years that Paris has lost its bid for the games. Paris last hosted the games in 1924. London hosted the games in 1948, the first post-war games.
The bidding and awarding process for the Winter and Summer Games has been under close scrutiny after it was discovered that many members of the IOC were taking "bribes" from cities and countries to host the games. Although never proven, speculation is the Salt Lake City games were awarded after substantial payments to IOC members. There is also speculation that there may have been some "gifts" from China to secure the 2008 games.
London Upsets Paris to Win 2012 Olympics - Yahoo! News
Tag: Olympic Games
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A former senator has agreed to guide the next Supreme Court nominee through the confirmation process.
Sen. Fed Thompson (R-TN), also known for his acting roles in "Hunt for Red October" and "Law and Order," agreed to accept the post in a conversation with the president on Monday.
During his tenure in the Senate Thompson was on the Judiciary Committee and is familiar with the longtime members.
Senate Majority Leader Bill Frist (R-TN) praised the former senator for his no-"nonsense style."
"Fred is a well-respected leader admired on both sides of the political aisle as someone who is fair-minded and straightforward," Frist said in a statement. "He is experienced in the ways of Washington and will undoubtedly provide valuable insight and counsel throughout the confirmation process."
The appointment of Thompson to aide the nominee could signal that whoever the president nominates may be from "outside the beltway."
Ex-Sen. Thompson to Oversee Court Nominee - Yahoo! News
In a related story, President Bush said he will not select a Supreme Court nominee based on one issue, abortion.
The president urged the Senate to act in a "dignified way" during the confirmation process.
Bush said there would be no "litmus test" that qualifies candidates because of their opinions on abortion and same-sex marriage.
"I'll pick people who, one, can do the job, and people who are honest, people who are bright and people who will strictly interpret the Constitution and not use the bench to legislate from," Bush said.
Bush also responded to the criticism of Attorney General Alberto Gonzales as a potential nominee. "And all the sudden this fella, who is a good public servant and a really fine person, is under fire," Bush said. "And so do I like it? No, I don't like it. At all."
If the president selects Gonzales it would be the first time a Hispanic has been nominated for the Supreme Court.
Bush: Abortion Won't Decide Court Nominee - Yahoo! News
Tags: Fred Thompson, Alberto Gonzales, Supreme Court
--
Today US District Judge Thomas Hogan should decide the fate of Time reporter Matthew Cooper and NY Times reporter Judith Miller. Both have been charged with criminal contempt in October for failing to disclose under oath the identity of sources for a report on a leak of the name of a CIA operative.
To appease the court, Time magazine has released the notes of Cooper. It is there hope that the release of the documents will make it unnecessary for Cooper to testify. Miller has said she will not comply with the court's order even if it means jail.
Special Counsel Patrick Fitzgerald demanded that Cooper and Miller testify before a grand jury. Fitzgerald said in court papers that the source has waived his right to confidentiality and can find no reason for the reporters failure to comply with a court order.
"Journalists are not entitled to promise complete confidentiality — no one in America is," Special Counsel Patrick Fitzgerald told a judge.
More on this story as it becomes available.
Reporters Face Jail in Fight Over Sources - Yahoo! News
--
More later.
Tuesday, July 05, 2005
Tuesday Briefing - Battle for the Court Looming - 7.5.05
This report is later than usual, but there has been some excitement here today. I have been offered a new position in public television. It is a great opportunity and will provide a lot of excitement. As I begin the move, reports on Check This Out! will be a little spotty. There may be no reports from July 29 - Aug 5. I will advise as the move gets closer.
--
Top Story
Who will be the next Supreme Court Justice? Speculation is running wild and liberal groups and senators are bashing the nominee. What nominee you ask? Good question. There is none, yet. But Senators like Ted Kennedy and Charles Schumer say they will vote against "any" nominee of President Bush.
Schumer says that unless the nominee will give specific answers to how he/she may rule on abortion and other "hot button" issues, he will claim the nominee has something to hide. Asking court nominees to be specific with answers to cases not yet before them is unprecedented and Senate Republicans plan to explain the obstructionism of Democrats.
Will there be a filibuster? It is likely that the seven "moderate" Democrats will say that any nominee the president chooses falls under an "extraordinary circumstance." The circumstance being President Bush appointed them. If there is a hint of a possible filibuster, it is time for Senate Majority Leader Bill Frist to use his power and leadership to change the rules and ban filibusters on judicial nominees. The votes are there if Frist has the ability to use them. If Frist allows a filibuster, there will be no new Supreme Court nominee during the Bush presidency.
Tag: Supreme Court
--
Although Time magazine agreed to turn over the notes of reporter Matthew Cooper to a federal court, the prosecutor is demanded that Cooper testify before a grand jury.
Special Counsel Patrick Fitzgerald also opposed the request from Cooper and NY Times reporter Judith Miller for home detention instead of jail for criminal contempt of court.
In court filings, Fitzpatrick wrote that home confinement would make it easier for the reporters to defy the court order. Special treatment for the reporters may "negate the coercive effect contemplated by federal law."
"Journalists are not entitled to promise complete confidentiality — no one in America is," Fitzgerald wrote.
On Wednesday US District Judge Thomas Hogan will hear arguments from Fitzgerald and lawyers for the reporters to determine whether the reporters be compelled to testify. Both have said previously that they would not testify nor reveal their sources. Judge Hogan could sentence them to jail after the hearing.
Prosecutor Demands Time Reporter Testimony - Yahoo! News
--
House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi (D-CA) complains loud and long about ethical breaches by Tom Delay (R-TX) and other House Republicans. Most of her complaints are about "supicious" trips that may have been paid for by lobbyists. Payment for Congressional trips by registered lobbyists is against House ethics rules.
When members of Cogress take trips soposored by an ourtside group, they are required to report them within 30 days.
Friday, Pelosi filed forms on three trips she took that were paid for by someone else. The most expensive trip was not reported on Pelosi' financial disclosure form and there was no record of a previous filing within the 30 day limit. One of the trips disclosed on Friday was over 7 years ago.
With these filings, Republicans are saying that there are just as many questions about trips taken by the Democrats.
Pelosi Turns In Delinquent Reports for 3 Sponsor-Funded Trips
Tags: Nancy Pelosi, Congress, House Ethics
--
The proliferation of 527 Groups who spent millions and millions of dollars on attack ads during the last presidential campaign has caused a Congressional committee to propose a bill to curb some spending.
The House Administration Committee voted 5-3 to send a bill to the House floor that would place tax-exempt partisan groups under the same fundraising and spending limits as political action committees.
The bill may specifically target organizzations like MoveOn.org, the Media Fund, and Swift Boat Veterans for Truth that targeted specific presidential candidates.
Rep. Bob Ney (R-OH), chairman of the committee, said the campaign law of 2002 that limited unregulated money "distorted our political process by taking power away from our political parties and redistributing it to less accountable, ideologically driven outside groups."
The Senate is considering a similar bill.
House Panel Seeks to Curb Some Fundraising - Yahoo! News
Tags: 527's, Campaign Finance
--
There is speculation that Sen. Hillary Clinton (D-NY) or her campaign staff have warned media outlets not to publicize a new book about the senator. Ed Klein's book The Turth About Hillary has been available for a few weeks and is climbing the sales charts without the media hype that normally accompanies a political "tell all" book.
Does Klein need the media? Apparently not. But who is buying the book? It can't be just the "vast right wing conspiracy" that the senator talks about. Maybe voters and potential voters are looking for the truth about Hillary. They will not get much through her campaign.
--
More later
--
Top Story
Who will be the next Supreme Court Justice? Speculation is running wild and liberal groups and senators are bashing the nominee. What nominee you ask? Good question. There is none, yet. But Senators like Ted Kennedy and Charles Schumer say they will vote against "any" nominee of President Bush.
Schumer says that unless the nominee will give specific answers to how he/she may rule on abortion and other "hot button" issues, he will claim the nominee has something to hide. Asking court nominees to be specific with answers to cases not yet before them is unprecedented and Senate Republicans plan to explain the obstructionism of Democrats.
Will there be a filibuster? It is likely that the seven "moderate" Democrats will say that any nominee the president chooses falls under an "extraordinary circumstance." The circumstance being President Bush appointed them. If there is a hint of a possible filibuster, it is time for Senate Majority Leader Bill Frist to use his power and leadership to change the rules and ban filibusters on judicial nominees. The votes are there if Frist has the ability to use them. If Frist allows a filibuster, there will be no new Supreme Court nominee during the Bush presidency.
Tag: Supreme Court
--
Although Time magazine agreed to turn over the notes of reporter Matthew Cooper to a federal court, the prosecutor is demanded that Cooper testify before a grand jury.
Special Counsel Patrick Fitzgerald also opposed the request from Cooper and NY Times reporter Judith Miller for home detention instead of jail for criminal contempt of court.
In court filings, Fitzpatrick wrote that home confinement would make it easier for the reporters to defy the court order. Special treatment for the reporters may "negate the coercive effect contemplated by federal law."
"Journalists are not entitled to promise complete confidentiality — no one in America is," Fitzgerald wrote.
On Wednesday US District Judge Thomas Hogan will hear arguments from Fitzgerald and lawyers for the reporters to determine whether the reporters be compelled to testify. Both have said previously that they would not testify nor reveal their sources. Judge Hogan could sentence them to jail after the hearing.
Prosecutor Demands Time Reporter Testimony - Yahoo! News
--
House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi (D-CA) complains loud and long about ethical breaches by Tom Delay (R-TX) and other House Republicans. Most of her complaints are about "supicious" trips that may have been paid for by lobbyists. Payment for Congressional trips by registered lobbyists is against House ethics rules.
When members of Cogress take trips soposored by an ourtside group, they are required to report them within 30 days.
Friday, Pelosi filed forms on three trips she took that were paid for by someone else. The most expensive trip was not reported on Pelosi' financial disclosure form and there was no record of a previous filing within the 30 day limit. One of the trips disclosed on Friday was over 7 years ago.
With these filings, Republicans are saying that there are just as many questions about trips taken by the Democrats.
Pelosi Turns In Delinquent Reports for 3 Sponsor-Funded Trips
Tags: Nancy Pelosi, Congress, House Ethics
--
The proliferation of 527 Groups who spent millions and millions of dollars on attack ads during the last presidential campaign has caused a Congressional committee to propose a bill to curb some spending.
The House Administration Committee voted 5-3 to send a bill to the House floor that would place tax-exempt partisan groups under the same fundraising and spending limits as political action committees.
The bill may specifically target organizzations like MoveOn.org, the Media Fund, and Swift Boat Veterans for Truth that targeted specific presidential candidates.
Rep. Bob Ney (R-OH), chairman of the committee, said the campaign law of 2002 that limited unregulated money "distorted our political process by taking power away from our political parties and redistributing it to less accountable, ideologically driven outside groups."
The Senate is considering a similar bill.
House Panel Seeks to Curb Some Fundraising - Yahoo! News
Tags: 527's, Campaign Finance
--
There is speculation that Sen. Hillary Clinton (D-NY) or her campaign staff have warned media outlets not to publicize a new book about the senator. Ed Klein's book The Turth About Hillary has been available for a few weeks and is climbing the sales charts without the media hype that normally accompanies a political "tell all" book.
Does Klein need the media? Apparently not. But who is buying the book? It can't be just the "vast right wing conspiracy" that the senator talks about. Maybe voters and potential voters are looking for the truth about Hillary. They will not get much through her campaign.
--
More later
Saturday, July 02, 2005
Weekend Update - Justice O'Connor Retires - 7.2.05
While traveling the highways of PA, OH, and IN yesterday it was interesting to hear the news and commentary on the retirement of Supreme Court Justice Sandra Day O'Connor. There were not many surprises.
In a Rose Garden announcement, President Bush accepted the retirement and told the country and the Senate how he would proceed. The President made it very clear that constitutionally it was his decision to select the next Supreme Court Justice. He also told the Senate what he expects of them. "The nation also deserves a dignified process of confirmation in the United States Senate, characterized by fair treatment, a fair hearing and a fair vote," the President said.
This was a warning shot to the Senate Democrats that a filibuster on any nominee to the high court is unacceptable.
Within minutes of the announcement, Democrats and liberals were telling anyone who would listen that the President will pick an ideologue who will have difficulty getting through the confirmation process. Sen Ted Kennedy said he would oppose any nominee that is similar to those he opposed at the appellate level. Translation, whoever you pick, I will oppose. No surprise from Sen. Kennedy.
Several Democrats called on the President to follow Ronald Reagan's example and appoint a women to fill O'Connor's seat on the court. Not a bad idea and there are several good candidates. Speculation is the President may also select a Hispanic to fill the seat. A leading contender would be Attorney General Alberto Gonzales. Unfortunately, this would lead to a multi-year (multi-president) confirmation process.
Also within hours of the announcement, MoveOn.org aired television commercials saying the President would pick a nominee who does not reflect the values and current judicial philosophy of the court.
In his announcement the President said he would not select a candidate until his return from Europe on July 8.
O'Connor's retirement could lead to other announcements from Justice Arthur Kennedy and Chief Justice William Rehnquist.
Bush Calls for 'Dignified' Confirmation Process -- 07/01/2005
Tags: Supreme Court, Sandar Day O'Connor Court
--
Will either Judith Miller or Matthew Cooper be spending the next 120 days in jail? The question is still up for debate, but each of the defendants has requested either home detention or detention in a federal; prison of their choice.
Time magazine announced Thursday that it will comply with a court order and hand over the notes of Matthew Cooper. The notes will reveal the source of a leak that revealed the identity of a CIA operative, Valerie Plame. The magazine is hoping the release of the documnets will keep Cooper out of jail. Although Time has released the material, Cooper says he will not comply with a subpoena compelling him to reveal the source.
The New York Times is standing behind reporter Judith Miller and will not provide investigators with her notes. Miller also said she would never comply with the order to reveal the source. Miller said that going to jai would be be "merely punative" as she will never comply with the court order. At at hearing on Wednesday,
Both Miller and Cooper have asked to select their punishment if they are jailed. Both have asked Judge Thomas Hogan for home detention. If, however, they are to be jailed Cooper asked to be sent to Cooper asked to be sent to a federal prison camp in Cumberland MD. Normally, individuals charged with contempt in the DC Circuit are sent to the District of Columbia jail, a violent and overcrowded facility.
If jailed, Miller has asked to be sent to the federal women's prison camp in Danbury CT. Readers will remember that convicted felon Martha Stewart asked for special treatment on the location of her incarceration that was denied. In this case, it is likely Miller will go wherever she is sent and Cooper may be jailed in a federal facility instead of the DC jail. It is unlikely they will receive home detention.
At the hearing on Wednesday, Hogan chided Miller, Cooper, and Time for requesting more time, but agreed to a final hearing to determine sentencing next week.
Reporters Ask Judge for Home Detention - Yahoo! News
Tags: Judith Miller, Matthew Cooper
--
More on Tuesday. Happy Fourth of July.
In a Rose Garden announcement, President Bush accepted the retirement and told the country and the Senate how he would proceed. The President made it very clear that constitutionally it was his decision to select the next Supreme Court Justice. He also told the Senate what he expects of them. "The nation also deserves a dignified process of confirmation in the United States Senate, characterized by fair treatment, a fair hearing and a fair vote," the President said.
This was a warning shot to the Senate Democrats that a filibuster on any nominee to the high court is unacceptable.
Within minutes of the announcement, Democrats and liberals were telling anyone who would listen that the President will pick an ideologue who will have difficulty getting through the confirmation process. Sen Ted Kennedy said he would oppose any nominee that is similar to those he opposed at the appellate level. Translation, whoever you pick, I will oppose. No surprise from Sen. Kennedy.
Several Democrats called on the President to follow Ronald Reagan's example and appoint a women to fill O'Connor's seat on the court. Not a bad idea and there are several good candidates. Speculation is the President may also select a Hispanic to fill the seat. A leading contender would be Attorney General Alberto Gonzales. Unfortunately, this would lead to a multi-year (multi-president) confirmation process.
Also within hours of the announcement, MoveOn.org aired television commercials saying the President would pick a nominee who does not reflect the values and current judicial philosophy of the court.
In his announcement the President said he would not select a candidate until his return from Europe on July 8.
O'Connor's retirement could lead to other announcements from Justice Arthur Kennedy and Chief Justice William Rehnquist.
Bush Calls for 'Dignified' Confirmation Process -- 07/01/2005
Tags: Supreme Court, Sandar Day O'Connor Court
--
Will either Judith Miller or Matthew Cooper be spending the next 120 days in jail? The question is still up for debate, but each of the defendants has requested either home detention or detention in a federal; prison of their choice.
Time magazine announced Thursday that it will comply with a court order and hand over the notes of Matthew Cooper. The notes will reveal the source of a leak that revealed the identity of a CIA operative, Valerie Plame. The magazine is hoping the release of the documnets will keep Cooper out of jail. Although Time has released the material, Cooper says he will not comply with a subpoena compelling him to reveal the source.
The New York Times is standing behind reporter Judith Miller and will not provide investigators with her notes. Miller also said she would never comply with the order to reveal the source. Miller said that going to jai would be be "merely punative" as she will never comply with the court order. At at hearing on Wednesday,
Both Miller and Cooper have asked to select their punishment if they are jailed. Both have asked Judge Thomas Hogan for home detention. If, however, they are to be jailed Cooper asked to be sent to Cooper asked to be sent to a federal prison camp in Cumberland MD. Normally, individuals charged with contempt in the DC Circuit are sent to the District of Columbia jail, a violent and overcrowded facility.
If jailed, Miller has asked to be sent to the federal women's prison camp in Danbury CT. Readers will remember that convicted felon Martha Stewart asked for special treatment on the location of her incarceration that was denied. In this case, it is likely Miller will go wherever she is sent and Cooper may be jailed in a federal facility instead of the DC jail. It is unlikely they will receive home detention.
At the hearing on Wednesday, Hogan chided Miller, Cooper, and Time for requesting more time, but agreed to a final hearing to determine sentencing next week.
Reporters Ask Judge for Home Detention - Yahoo! News
Tags: Judith Miller, Matthew Cooper
--
More on Tuesday. Happy Fourth of July.
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