Good afternoon . . .
John Kerry (D-MA) is not officially announcing his run for president in 2008. The key word is "officially." During the 2004 campaign he was heavily criticized for his weak record as a senator. Many detractors called him Senator Gone for his numerous absences from the Senate floor and committee meetings. According to Senate rules, Kerry owes the government the equivalent of a years pay for the number of unexcused absences over the years. Kerry, like other absent senators, has no intention of paying the taxpayers for his failure to perform his basic responsibilities.
Nevertheless, Kerry is hitting the road to tout his latest bill. A children's health insurance bill called the Kids First Act.
Kerry will be making across-country tour to Washington, Minnesota, Louisiana, and Florida.
One Democrat donor said Kerry is planning a fundraiser in Florida. No one from Kerry's PAC will comment on the Florida event.
So, is Kerry beginning another run? Sounds like it to me.
The Hill
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A soldier in the elite 101st Airborne Division was sentenced to death Thursday for killing 2 officers and inuring 14 other soldiers in Kuwait.
Sgt Hasan Akbar was sentenced by the same military jury that convicted him of premeditated murder and attempted premeditated murder.
Before the jury deliberated on sentencing, Akbar made a weak plea for mercy that was barely audible in the court.
The sentence will be reviewed by a commanding officer and automatically appealed. If it stands Akbar will be executed by lethal injection.
During the trial, Akbar's journal and other material demonstrated that he planned to kill fellow soldiers because they were going to kill Muslims. In a 1997 entry, Akbar wrote, "My life will not be complete unless America is destroyed."
My Way News
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The University of Colorado seems to shot itself in the foot almost monthly. The school has been plagued by scandals in its athletic department and by a renegade professor who believes the victims of 9/11 deserved it.
With all those investigations you would think the university would give investigators anything and everything necessary to clear the university of wrongdoing. You would think that, but it does not seem to be the case at CU.
Attorneys for two women who claimed they were raped at a part for recruiting CU football players may have uncovered some new information to continue their fight./ The suit was dismissed by a federal judge, but the women's attorney is seeking documents not provided to them by the school.
In a hearing on Wednesday, the attorneys alleged that there are documents the university hid from investigators that show addition instances of sexual assault involving football players and female students.
The details of the alleged instances filed with campus police remain under seal and could only be referred to in the most general of terms during the Wednesday hearing.
US Magistrate Craig Shaffer told CU lawyers during the daylong hearing that he was troubled by their conduct.
Shaffer called the university's responses to the plaintiff's efforts to get information about the alleged incidents "lousy." He said CU lawyers replied to the plaintiffs' requests with "gibberish" and "mumbo-jumbo," failed to make clear what documents existed about the alleged incidents and cited inadequate reasons for withholding the documents from the plaintiffs.
Shaffer said he will rule later in writing.
If this new information is found to be viable, the women should win on appeal and the court should find CU culpable for this incidents.
Since the university president has already resigned, it is now time for the university's Board of Regents to follow suit. The Board has known of probelms in the athletic department for years. By failing to control the athletic program, the board members have enabled the problems to continue. Now that the problems have reached criminal status, it is time for the board to resign and allow a new board to solve the problems in the athletic department and other academic departments on campus.
The current board has shown it is not capable of running a university.
Rocky Mountain News: Local
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Today's Briefs
Full text of President Bush's press conference
Former Senator Zell Miller (D-GA) is hospitalized.
UK Election Update
Ann Coulter's weekly column
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More on Monday.
Friday, April 29, 2005
Friday Briefing - 4.29.05 -
Good morning . . .
President George W. Bush held a rare prime-time news conference Thursday night to highlight his plans for Social Security and energy.
The President outlined his plan for Social Security which continues to include private savings accounts and a proposal to "limit" benefits to higher earning taxpayers. The income level for reduced benefits was $90,000. This reporter believes that is too low. Like all of the proposals in the Bush plan, everything is "on the table" for negotiation.
The questioning during the press conference was wide-ranging and included topics from Iraq to North Korea to judicial nominees to John Bolton.
On Bolton the President continues to support his nominee and said that he thinks that Bolton is the "right man" to push for reform at the Untied Nations.
There was one aspect of the coverage of the press conference that deserves comment and scrutiny.
I watched the press conference in Fox News Channel, it generally supplies the best and most balanced coverage. When the president said, "This is the last question," I turned to NBC to catch the beginning of 'The Apprentice." To my surprise, I did not see the President answering the last question. What I saw was Brian WIlliams and Tim Russert analyzing the press conference. The analysis came BEFORE the press conference was over.
In my view this is insulting to the President and demonstrates that CBS is not the only network with a liberal bias.
Highlights of Bush's Press Conference - Yahoo! News
--
Senate Majority Leader Bill Frist (R-TN) is doing his best to avoid a vote on Senate rules changes that would ban filibusters for judicial nominees.
Thursday, Frist proposed ending the practice of blocking nominees in committee - something Democrats say Republicans did during the Clinton administration. Frist proposed a limit of 100 hours of debate for each appointee to an appellate court including the Supreme Court. Democrats would lose the ability to block appeals court candidates.
Senate Minority Leader Harry Reid (D-NV) rejected the proposal.
The Senate begins another vacation until May 9. It is likely the vote on the rules change will come shortly after they return.
Senate Democrats reject GOP proposal - Yahoo! News
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Senate Minority Leader Harry Reid (D-NV) thinks it will take a "miracle" for Democrats to win back the Senate. For once I agree with the Obstructionist-in-Chief.
"After listening to Senator Reid's political spin about judicial nominees for the last several weeks, it is good to hear him come back to reality -- if even for a brief moment," said Brian Nick, spokesman for the National Republican Senatorial Committee. "Senator Reid can do the math: A Democratic Party, plus no ideas, plus obstruction, plus over-the-top partisan rhetoric equals continued minority."
Later a spokesperson for Reid said that the Nevada senator believes in miracles.
'Miracle' needed to win back Senate - The Washington Times: Nation/Politics - April 29, 2005
--
The Florida Supreme Court rejected an appeal from radio commentator Rush Limbaugh over prosecution seizure of his medical records in an investigation into whether he illegally purchased painkillers.
The 4-3 decision did not explain the court's reasoning.
Limbaugh's attorney says the seizure of the records was part of a politically motivated "fishing expedition" by Palm Beach County District Attorney Barry Krischer.
Prosecutors went after the records after learning Limbaugh had received 2,000 painkillers, prescribed by four doctors within 6 months.
In October 2003, Limbaugh admitted his was addicted to painkillers and spend 5 weeks in rehab before resuming his daily talk show duties.
In an interesting turn, the Florida ACLU is backing Limbaugh's claim of an invasion of privacy. Usually the ACLU is only interested in liberal causes.
Newsday.com: Florida Supreme Court refuses to hear Rush Limbaugh appeal
--
More later.
President George W. Bush held a rare prime-time news conference Thursday night to highlight his plans for Social Security and energy.
The President outlined his plan for Social Security which continues to include private savings accounts and a proposal to "limit" benefits to higher earning taxpayers. The income level for reduced benefits was $90,000. This reporter believes that is too low. Like all of the proposals in the Bush plan, everything is "on the table" for negotiation.
The questioning during the press conference was wide-ranging and included topics from Iraq to North Korea to judicial nominees to John Bolton.
On Bolton the President continues to support his nominee and said that he thinks that Bolton is the "right man" to push for reform at the Untied Nations.
There was one aspect of the coverage of the press conference that deserves comment and scrutiny.
I watched the press conference in Fox News Channel, it generally supplies the best and most balanced coverage. When the president said, "This is the last question," I turned to NBC to catch the beginning of 'The Apprentice." To my surprise, I did not see the President answering the last question. What I saw was Brian WIlliams and Tim Russert analyzing the press conference. The analysis came BEFORE the press conference was over.
In my view this is insulting to the President and demonstrates that CBS is not the only network with a liberal bias.
Highlights of Bush's Press Conference - Yahoo! News
--
Senate Majority Leader Bill Frist (R-TN) is doing his best to avoid a vote on Senate rules changes that would ban filibusters for judicial nominees.
Thursday, Frist proposed ending the practice of blocking nominees in committee - something Democrats say Republicans did during the Clinton administration. Frist proposed a limit of 100 hours of debate for each appointee to an appellate court including the Supreme Court. Democrats would lose the ability to block appeals court candidates.
Senate Minority Leader Harry Reid (D-NV) rejected the proposal.
The Senate begins another vacation until May 9. It is likely the vote on the rules change will come shortly after they return.
Senate Democrats reject GOP proposal - Yahoo! News
--
Senate Minority Leader Harry Reid (D-NV) thinks it will take a "miracle" for Democrats to win back the Senate. For once I agree with the Obstructionist-in-Chief.
"After listening to Senator Reid's political spin about judicial nominees for the last several weeks, it is good to hear him come back to reality -- if even for a brief moment," said Brian Nick, spokesman for the National Republican Senatorial Committee. "Senator Reid can do the math: A Democratic Party, plus no ideas, plus obstruction, plus over-the-top partisan rhetoric equals continued minority."
Later a spokesperson for Reid said that the Nevada senator believes in miracles.
'Miracle' needed to win back Senate - The Washington Times: Nation/Politics - April 29, 2005
--
The Florida Supreme Court rejected an appeal from radio commentator Rush Limbaugh over prosecution seizure of his medical records in an investigation into whether he illegally purchased painkillers.
The 4-3 decision did not explain the court's reasoning.
Limbaugh's attorney says the seizure of the records was part of a politically motivated "fishing expedition" by Palm Beach County District Attorney Barry Krischer.
Prosecutors went after the records after learning Limbaugh had received 2,000 painkillers, prescribed by four doctors within 6 months.
In October 2003, Limbaugh admitted his was addicted to painkillers and spend 5 weeks in rehab before resuming his daily talk show duties.
In an interesting turn, the Florida ACLU is backing Limbaugh's claim of an invasion of privacy. Usually the ACLU is only interested in liberal causes.
Newsday.com: Florida Supreme Court refuses to hear Rush Limbaugh appeal
--
More later.
Thursday, April 28, 2005
Thursday Update - 4.28.05 - Chicago Trib Sued for Picture Mix Up
Good afternoon . . .
A Chicago man is suing the Chicago Tribune over photos published by the newspaper in connection with a story about indictments of reputed mob figures.
Frank Calabrese is used to seeing newspaper stories about the reputed mobster who shares his name. Imagine his surprise when he opened the paper on Tuesday to see his picture included in an article about the indictment of several mobsters.
One of the mobsters indicted was Frank Calabrese, Sr. The indictments were for at least 18 murders. The retired businessman has no ties to crime, organized or otherwise.
"It's just upsetting," said Calabrese, 76. "I have voice mails from people calling me who were my customers asking me what's happening. Is that you?"
Calabrese has filed a suit against the paper in Cook County circuit court on Wednesday for defamation and invasion of privacy.
To its credit the Tribune ran a correction in the Metro section, but Calabrese continues to be upset.
That's not the end of the Tribune's problems with wrong photographs.
Today the Trib was explaining to readers how the picture of 69 year old Stanley Sweiton was identified in the Wednesday edition of the Tribune as reputed mobster, Joseph "The Clown" Lombardo. The caption for the photo was, "Have You Seen This Clown?" Lombard is reputed to be the boss of a Chicago organized crime syndicate called "The Outfit." Lombard managed to elude a massive raid by federal agents on reputed mobsters.
"We sincerely regret our mistake," Editor Ann Marie Lipinski said in the article. "We strive for accuracy, but when we make an error, we try to correct it. We are very sorry for this mistake and apologize to Mr. Swieton."
There is no word from Mr. Sweiton on possible action against the Tribune.
With all the editors at the Tribune who are supposed to review content, this type of mistake is unacceptable. The only "clowns" in either story are the photographers, reporters, editors, and librarians who were involved.
Man Sues 'Chicago Tribune' for Photo Linking Him to Mob
'Trib' Takes Another Hit on Mixed-Up Mob Pix
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The US Supreme Court has heard its last arguments for this session. The remainder of the term will be spent researching, writing, and delivering opinions.
The speculation now begins in earnest on the possible retirement of Chief Justice William H. Rehnquist. Chief Justice Rehnquist, 80, announced in October that he was undergoing treatment for thyroid cancer. His appearance at the Court building has been rare as he continued to work from his home during treatment.
Court observers say he looks frail and he has not spoken publicly about his plans.
Tradition has a Justice retire before the end of a term giving the President and the Senate enough time to battle over the high court nominee. The current partisan battle in the Senate over judicial nominees could stretch the process for months. A long nomination process, like the one when Justice Anthony Kennedy was nominated, could leave the Court with only eight justices at the beginning of the new term in October.
The last two justices to etire, Byron White and Harry Blackmun, announced their intentions in the early spring and stayed on until the end of the term.
If Chief Justice Rehnquist waits until June to make an announcement it will give the President and the Senate only about six weeks to name a new Chief Justice. The limited amount of time is due in part to the numerous vacations Congress takes during late spring and summer. The US Congress only works about six weeks between June and October.
The speculation over a possible Rehnquist retirement coincides with speculation over his replacement. The White House has not released publicly it list of external possibilities. Current side Justices under consideration are Justice Antonin Scalia and Clarence Thomas. All things being equal, Justice Scalia seems to be the front-runner.
Whatever happens, nothing will start until Chief Justice Rehnquist makes his decision in the best interests of the Court and the country.
Will Rehnquist End 33-Year Career? - Yahoo! News
--
No briefs today. More tomorrow.
A Chicago man is suing the Chicago Tribune over photos published by the newspaper in connection with a story about indictments of reputed mob figures.
Frank Calabrese is used to seeing newspaper stories about the reputed mobster who shares his name. Imagine his surprise when he opened the paper on Tuesday to see his picture included in an article about the indictment of several mobsters.
One of the mobsters indicted was Frank Calabrese, Sr. The indictments were for at least 18 murders. The retired businessman has no ties to crime, organized or otherwise.
"It's just upsetting," said Calabrese, 76. "I have voice mails from people calling me who were my customers asking me what's happening. Is that you?"
Calabrese has filed a suit against the paper in Cook County circuit court on Wednesday for defamation and invasion of privacy.
To its credit the Tribune ran a correction in the Metro section, but Calabrese continues to be upset.
That's not the end of the Tribune's problems with wrong photographs.
Today the Trib was explaining to readers how the picture of 69 year old Stanley Sweiton was identified in the Wednesday edition of the Tribune as reputed mobster, Joseph "The Clown" Lombardo. The caption for the photo was, "Have You Seen This Clown?" Lombard is reputed to be the boss of a Chicago organized crime syndicate called "The Outfit." Lombard managed to elude a massive raid by federal agents on reputed mobsters.
"We sincerely regret our mistake," Editor Ann Marie Lipinski said in the article. "We strive for accuracy, but when we make an error, we try to correct it. We are very sorry for this mistake and apologize to Mr. Swieton."
There is no word from Mr. Sweiton on possible action against the Tribune.
With all the editors at the Tribune who are supposed to review content, this type of mistake is unacceptable. The only "clowns" in either story are the photographers, reporters, editors, and librarians who were involved.
Man Sues 'Chicago Tribune' for Photo Linking Him to Mob
'Trib' Takes Another Hit on Mixed-Up Mob Pix
--
The US Supreme Court has heard its last arguments for this session. The remainder of the term will be spent researching, writing, and delivering opinions.
The speculation now begins in earnest on the possible retirement of Chief Justice William H. Rehnquist. Chief Justice Rehnquist, 80, announced in October that he was undergoing treatment for thyroid cancer. His appearance at the Court building has been rare as he continued to work from his home during treatment.
Court observers say he looks frail and he has not spoken publicly about his plans.
Tradition has a Justice retire before the end of a term giving the President and the Senate enough time to battle over the high court nominee. The current partisan battle in the Senate over judicial nominees could stretch the process for months. A long nomination process, like the one when Justice Anthony Kennedy was nominated, could leave the Court with only eight justices at the beginning of the new term in October.
The last two justices to etire, Byron White and Harry Blackmun, announced their intentions in the early spring and stayed on until the end of the term.
If Chief Justice Rehnquist waits until June to make an announcement it will give the President and the Senate only about six weeks to name a new Chief Justice. The limited amount of time is due in part to the numerous vacations Congress takes during late spring and summer. The US Congress only works about six weeks between June and October.
The speculation over a possible Rehnquist retirement coincides with speculation over his replacement. The White House has not released publicly it list of external possibilities. Current side Justices under consideration are Justice Antonin Scalia and Clarence Thomas. All things being equal, Justice Scalia seems to be the front-runner.
Whatever happens, nothing will start until Chief Justice Rehnquist makes his decision in the best interests of the Court and the country.
Will Rehnquist End 33-Year Career? - Yahoo! News
--
No briefs today. More tomorrow.
Thursday Briefing - 4.28.05 - News Standards at CBS
Good morning . . .
"60 Minutes Wednesday" earned a reputation for not carefully investigating claims before trying to sway a presidential election. After the failed attempt by Dan Rather and Mary Mapes, you would think the stories on the program would not demonstrate the lack of ethics or standards at the failing news division.
Reporter Steve Hartman provides short, light-hearted stories at the end of each episode. On the April 27 edition of '60 Minutes Wednesday' Hartman presented a piece on yard sales. In the beginning of the story, Hartman went to a few yard sales, bought a few pieces of junk and was inspired to have a '60 Minutes Wednesday Yard Sale.' So far, so cute.
At Hartman's yard sale he put out so,e "boring personnel booklets" including a CBS News Standards booklet. Throughout the "sale" segment he focused on the booklet which had a post-it note saying "never used." He showed the booklet to a potential buyer saying, " This is the standards we work by. That book's never been used.
While Hartman and the producers at '60 Minutes Wednesday" may have thought it was funny, it demonstrates the basic problem at CBS News, ethics and standards are not part of their work. Does this surprise anyone?
--
The US House passed a bill Wednesday that will make it more difficult for girls under 18 to get an abortion by traveling to another state. The bill passed by a bi-partisan vote of 270-157.
The Child Abortion Notification Act will make it illegal to transport a minor across state lines to get an abortion if it is done to evade a state parental involvement law, unless a state court issues a waiver.
The new law will require doctors to notify a parent before performing an abortion on a minor who is a resident of another state, unless the patient has a waiver from a state court in her home state. In cases of sexual abuse, the doctor is required to contact the state's child welfare agency.
A similar bill has been introduced in the Senate, but is being blocked by Democrats.
House Passes Parental Notification Bill -- 04/28/2005
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A source in Senate Majority Leader Bill Frist's (R-TN) office announced that a press conference will be held today to discuss a plan to resolve the partisan battle over judicial nominees.
The Frist plan will allow Democrats to debate each judicial nominee, but he stands firm on the demand that each nominee brought to the Senate floor receive an up-or-down vote.
It is likely the Democrats will reject this proposal.
Earlier in the week, Frist and the White House rejected a plan from Senate Minority Leader Harry Reid (D-NV) that would have the President withdraw the names of several "controversial" nominees in exchange for floor votes on two nominees.
It appears that the "constitutional option" to change Senate rules to ban filibusters for judicial nominees is still the most viable option to end the stalemate.
Frist Set to Give Democrats Judges Offer: Sources - Yahoo! News
--
A prosecution witness in the Michael Jackson child molestation trial may have helped the defense more than expected.
Michael Jackson's ex-wife, Debbie Rowe, told the court that the videotape she made praising Jackson was not scripted.
She admitted that she was handed some questions, but did not look at them because she did not want people to think it was rehearsed. She could not explain why the taping took nine hours allowing for extensive editing to make Jackson look as good as possible.
In a dramatic turn during her testimony, Rowe said that Jackson was "her friend" and she wanted to get "reacquainted" with the aging pop star and their children.
--
More later.
"60 Minutes Wednesday" earned a reputation for not carefully investigating claims before trying to sway a presidential election. After the failed attempt by Dan Rather and Mary Mapes, you would think the stories on the program would not demonstrate the lack of ethics or standards at the failing news division.
Reporter Steve Hartman provides short, light-hearted stories at the end of each episode. On the April 27 edition of '60 Minutes Wednesday' Hartman presented a piece on yard sales. In the beginning of the story, Hartman went to a few yard sales, bought a few pieces of junk and was inspired to have a '60 Minutes Wednesday Yard Sale.' So far, so cute.
At Hartman's yard sale he put out so,e "boring personnel booklets" including a CBS News Standards booklet. Throughout the "sale" segment he focused on the booklet which had a post-it note saying "never used." He showed the booklet to a potential buyer saying, " This is the standards we work by. That book's never been used.
While Hartman and the producers at '60 Minutes Wednesday" may have thought it was funny, it demonstrates the basic problem at CBS News, ethics and standards are not part of their work. Does this surprise anyone?
--
The US House passed a bill Wednesday that will make it more difficult for girls under 18 to get an abortion by traveling to another state. The bill passed by a bi-partisan vote of 270-157.
The Child Abortion Notification Act will make it illegal to transport a minor across state lines to get an abortion if it is done to evade a state parental involvement law, unless a state court issues a waiver.
The new law will require doctors to notify a parent before performing an abortion on a minor who is a resident of another state, unless the patient has a waiver from a state court in her home state. In cases of sexual abuse, the doctor is required to contact the state's child welfare agency.
A similar bill has been introduced in the Senate, but is being blocked by Democrats.
House Passes Parental Notification Bill -- 04/28/2005
--
A source in Senate Majority Leader Bill Frist's (R-TN) office announced that a press conference will be held today to discuss a plan to resolve the partisan battle over judicial nominees.
The Frist plan will allow Democrats to debate each judicial nominee, but he stands firm on the demand that each nominee brought to the Senate floor receive an up-or-down vote.
It is likely the Democrats will reject this proposal.
Earlier in the week, Frist and the White House rejected a plan from Senate Minority Leader Harry Reid (D-NV) that would have the President withdraw the names of several "controversial" nominees in exchange for floor votes on two nominees.
It appears that the "constitutional option" to change Senate rules to ban filibusters for judicial nominees is still the most viable option to end the stalemate.
Frist Set to Give Democrats Judges Offer: Sources - Yahoo! News
--
A prosecution witness in the Michael Jackson child molestation trial may have helped the defense more than expected.
Michael Jackson's ex-wife, Debbie Rowe, told the court that the videotape she made praising Jackson was not scripted.
She admitted that she was handed some questions, but did not look at them because she did not want people to think it was rehearsed. She could not explain why the taping took nine hours allowing for extensive editing to make Jackson look as good as possible.
In a dramatic turn during her testimony, Rowe said that Jackson was "her friend" and she wanted to get "reacquainted" with the aging pop star and their children.
--
More later.
Wednesday, April 27, 2005
Wednesday Briefing - 4.27.05 - Hastert Supports Rule Changes
Good afternoon . .
Had some problems earlier with Blogspot. This may be the only post for today.
--
A security alert at the White House today resulted in President Bush being taken to a secure bunker and Vice President Dick Cheney was moved to a secure location. The alter was caused by an unidentified airplane entering restricted airspace over Washington.
The alert lasted only a few moments as it was determined it was a false alarm.
``There was an indication that an aircraft has entered the no-fly zone,'' White House press secretary Scott McClellan said. ``There's an investigation to determine what it really was.''
News
--
Cojtroversial rules set in place for the House Ethics Committee may be withdrawn by Speaker of the House Dennis Hastert (R-IL).
Democrats say that the rules were "pushed through" to shield House Majority Leader Tom DeLay. The most controversial new rule requires the committee to act on an ethics complaint within forty-five days or the complaint is automatically dismissed. The old rule which is likely to be reinstated says that an ethics complaint would automatically trigger an investigation unless the committee votes to dismiss it within forty-five days.
The ethics committee is comprised of five Democrats and five Republicans. Under the old rules, it takes a majority of the committee to dismiss an investigation.
Speaker Hastert hopes for a vote on the rules change by the end of the day.
House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi says it is not enough and wants Hastert to reinstate committee staffers fired earlier this year. Pelosi is unlikely to get her wish.
Hastert bristled at talk of Democrats dictating committee staffing. "If they get one thing, they'll want another," he told The Associated Press.
"We raised their staffing. They have the ability to hire more staff," he added, referring to a large increase in the committee's budget.
When the old rules are reinstated, it is likely that a full investigation into the multiple ethics problems of Majority Leader Tom DeLay will begin in earnest.
Las Vegas SUN: House Speaker Ready to Scrap Ethics Rules
--
The faltering sometime ridiculous liberal radio "network" Air America could be in serious trouble.
The brain-trust at Air America thought it would be funny to air a skit in which "warning shots" were fired at the President over the Social Security debate.
In the skit the announcer said, "A spoiled child is telling us our Social Security isn't safe anymore, so he is going to fix it for us. Well, here's your answer, you ungrateful whelp: [audio sound of 4 gunshots being fired.] Just try it, you little bastard. [audio of gun being cocked]."
The skit was part of the little-known Randi Rhodes Show who was laughing after the skit aired.
Under federal law even joking about shooting the President is a crime. The Secret Service is investigating.
Air America had no comment on the incident.
(Editor's note: This story comes from the Drudge Report. So far there has been no other sources for this story. As noted before, this column rarely uses unsubstantiated stories from Drudge. Remember the Drudge Report reported the death of John Paul II 24 hours before it happened.)
DRUDGE REPORT FLASH 2005
--
The US Supreme Court rules today that farmers can sue pesticide maker Dow Agrosciences after the company's weed killer unexpectedly killed their crops.
The ruling reinstates the farmers' claim that Dow essentially failed to warn of possible risks. A lower court had dismissed the claims, reasoning that federal law barred states from imposing labeling requirements on pesticides and herbicides other than those set by the Environmental Protection Agency.
The Court ordered the 5th US Circuit Court of Appeals to take a second look at the case. The case is Bates v. Dow Agrosciences, 03-388.
Yahoo! News - Court: Farmers Can Sue Pesticide Makers
--
The US Supreme Court heard arguments Tuesday over when an appeals court loses jurisdiction over cases. The execution of a Tennessee man was stalled when a court unexpectedly withdrew its earlier judgment.
At issue is whether the 6th Circuit Court of Appeals followed proper procedure when it decided, on its own accord, to reconsider the case of a convicted murderer after it had denied his appeal.
Jennifer L. Smith, arguing for the state, said that federal law requires the court to issue a "mandate" signaling the end of its authority seven days after the Supreme Court's decision not to take the case.
The Cincinnati based court never issued a mandate. The inmate's lawyer argued that gave the court flexibility to reconsider when a judge discovers new information.
The case is Bell v. Thompson, 04-514
Shelbyville Times-Gazette: Story: Thompson case heard by U.S. Supreme Court
--
Today's Briefs
Michael Jackson child-molestation trial update.
The largest airliner in the world, the Airbus 380, made its maiden flight today.
British election update.
The CBS Evening News hits lowest ratings.
--
More tomorrow.
Had some problems earlier with Blogspot. This may be the only post for today.
--
A security alert at the White House today resulted in President Bush being taken to a secure bunker and Vice President Dick Cheney was moved to a secure location. The alter was caused by an unidentified airplane entering restricted airspace over Washington.
The alert lasted only a few moments as it was determined it was a false alarm.
``There was an indication that an aircraft has entered the no-fly zone,'' White House press secretary Scott McClellan said. ``There's an investigation to determine what it really was.''
News
--
Cojtroversial rules set in place for the House Ethics Committee may be withdrawn by Speaker of the House Dennis Hastert (R-IL).
Democrats say that the rules were "pushed through" to shield House Majority Leader Tom DeLay. The most controversial new rule requires the committee to act on an ethics complaint within forty-five days or the complaint is automatically dismissed. The old rule which is likely to be reinstated says that an ethics complaint would automatically trigger an investigation unless the committee votes to dismiss it within forty-five days.
The ethics committee is comprised of five Democrats and five Republicans. Under the old rules, it takes a majority of the committee to dismiss an investigation.
Speaker Hastert hopes for a vote on the rules change by the end of the day.
House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi says it is not enough and wants Hastert to reinstate committee staffers fired earlier this year. Pelosi is unlikely to get her wish.
Hastert bristled at talk of Democrats dictating committee staffing. "If they get one thing, they'll want another," he told The Associated Press.
"We raised their staffing. They have the ability to hire more staff," he added, referring to a large increase in the committee's budget.
When the old rules are reinstated, it is likely that a full investigation into the multiple ethics problems of Majority Leader Tom DeLay will begin in earnest.
Las Vegas SUN: House Speaker Ready to Scrap Ethics Rules
--
The faltering sometime ridiculous liberal radio "network" Air America could be in serious trouble.
The brain-trust at Air America thought it would be funny to air a skit in which "warning shots" were fired at the President over the Social Security debate.
In the skit the announcer said, "A spoiled child is telling us our Social Security isn't safe anymore, so he is going to fix it for us. Well, here's your answer, you ungrateful whelp: [audio sound of 4 gunshots being fired.] Just try it, you little bastard. [audio of gun being cocked]."
The skit was part of the little-known Randi Rhodes Show who was laughing after the skit aired.
Under federal law even joking about shooting the President is a crime. The Secret Service is investigating.
Air America had no comment on the incident.
(Editor's note: This story comes from the Drudge Report. So far there has been no other sources for this story. As noted before, this column rarely uses unsubstantiated stories from Drudge. Remember the Drudge Report reported the death of John Paul II 24 hours before it happened.)
DRUDGE REPORT FLASH 2005
--
The US Supreme Court rules today that farmers can sue pesticide maker Dow Agrosciences after the company's weed killer unexpectedly killed their crops.
The ruling reinstates the farmers' claim that Dow essentially failed to warn of possible risks. A lower court had dismissed the claims, reasoning that federal law barred states from imposing labeling requirements on pesticides and herbicides other than those set by the Environmental Protection Agency.
The Court ordered the 5th US Circuit Court of Appeals to take a second look at the case. The case is Bates v. Dow Agrosciences, 03-388.
Yahoo! News - Court: Farmers Can Sue Pesticide Makers
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The US Supreme Court heard arguments Tuesday over when an appeals court loses jurisdiction over cases. The execution of a Tennessee man was stalled when a court unexpectedly withdrew its earlier judgment.
At issue is whether the 6th Circuit Court of Appeals followed proper procedure when it decided, on its own accord, to reconsider the case of a convicted murderer after it had denied his appeal.
Jennifer L. Smith, arguing for the state, said that federal law requires the court to issue a "mandate" signaling the end of its authority seven days after the Supreme Court's decision not to take the case.
The Cincinnati based court never issued a mandate. The inmate's lawyer argued that gave the court flexibility to reconsider when a judge discovers new information.
The case is Bell v. Thompson, 04-514
Shelbyville Times-Gazette: Story: Thompson case heard by U.S. Supreme Court
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Today's Briefs
Michael Jackson child-molestation trial update.
The largest airliner in the world, the Airbus 380, made its maiden flight today.
British election update.
The CBS Evening News hits lowest ratings.
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More tomorrow.
Tuesday, April 26, 2005
Tuesday Update - 4.26.05 - Frist says No.
Good afternoon . . .
The Supreme Court ruled today that people convicted of crimes overseas can still own guns in the US.
In a 5-3 decision the Court reasoned the US law which prohibits felons who have been convicted in "any court" from owning guns, only applies to domestic crime.
Justice Stephen Breyer, writing for the majority, said interpreting the law too broadly to apply to foreign convictions is unfair. If the Congress intended foreign convictions to apply, the can rewrite the law.
The dissenting opinion was written by Justice Clarence Thomas. He argued that Congress intended for foreign convictions to apply. "Any" court literally means any court, he wrote. Justice Thomas was joined in his dissent by Justices Scalia and Kennedy.
This decision almost reminds be of Clinton's assertion that it "depends on what the definition of "is" is." In this case the dissenters are correct. Now it is time for the Congress to act to correct this ridiculous ruling.
Yahoo! News - Court Rules on Convict Gun Ownership
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Karl Rove isn't the only person who rejects the "compromise" proposed by Senate Democrats. Senate Majority Leader Bill Frist (R-TN) said today he was not interested in any "deal" that fails to ensure that the Senate votes on confirmation for all the President's nominees.
"My goal is to have fair up and down votes. Are we going to shift from that principle? The answer to that is no," Frist said.
This means there is still a deadlock on judicial nominees. It also means the so-called "nuclear option" to change Senate rules to prohibit a filibuster on judicial nominees is till a viable option.
Frist Says He's Not Interested in Deals - Yahoo! News
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Today's Briefs
Michael Jackson child-molestation trial update.
Senate panel gets social security
California Assembly passes "anti-gay" rhetoric bill.
Interesting items on TKS on National Review Online.
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More tomorrow. Please note the article on current problems at PBS will be posted Thursday.
The Supreme Court ruled today that people convicted of crimes overseas can still own guns in the US.
In a 5-3 decision the Court reasoned the US law which prohibits felons who have been convicted in "any court" from owning guns, only applies to domestic crime.
Justice Stephen Breyer, writing for the majority, said interpreting the law too broadly to apply to foreign convictions is unfair. If the Congress intended foreign convictions to apply, the can rewrite the law.
The dissenting opinion was written by Justice Clarence Thomas. He argued that Congress intended for foreign convictions to apply. "Any" court literally means any court, he wrote. Justice Thomas was joined in his dissent by Justices Scalia and Kennedy.
This decision almost reminds be of Clinton's assertion that it "depends on what the definition of "is" is." In this case the dissenters are correct. Now it is time for the Congress to act to correct this ridiculous ruling.
Yahoo! News - Court Rules on Convict Gun Ownership
--
Karl Rove isn't the only person who rejects the "compromise" proposed by Senate Democrats. Senate Majority Leader Bill Frist (R-TN) said today he was not interested in any "deal" that fails to ensure that the Senate votes on confirmation for all the President's nominees.
"My goal is to have fair up and down votes. Are we going to shift from that principle? The answer to that is no," Frist said.
This means there is still a deadlock on judicial nominees. It also means the so-called "nuclear option" to change Senate rules to prohibit a filibuster on judicial nominees is till a viable option.
Frist Says He's Not Interested in Deals - Yahoo! News
--
Today's Briefs
Michael Jackson child-molestation trial update.
Senate panel gets social security
California Assembly passes "anti-gay" rhetoric bill.
Interesting items on TKS on National Review Online.
--
More tomorrow. Please note the article on current problems at PBS will be posted Thursday.
Tuesday Briefing - 4.26.05 - Filibuster Compromise?
Good morning . .
New Feature
Starting today there will be a new feature on Check This Out!
A new section called Briefs will be included in the updates that appear in the afternoon or evening. This new section will provide readers with a brief headline and a link to a story. The Briefs section will give readers and opportunity to view stories not always covered by the daily briefings and updates.
As always, any comments on the stories or features on Check This Out! are appreciated. Simply send comments to pgsroufe@hotmail.com.
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Speculation on Capitol Hill is there may be a compromise on Senate filibuster for judicial nominees. Staff for Senate Majority Leader Bill Frist (R-TN) and Senate Minority Leader Harry Reid (D-NV) will only say conversations continue between the two leaders.
Sources close to Reid say the compromise, if agreed to, will have Democrats support two of the President's nominees only if the President will withdraw the names of other judges renominated by the President. Other parts of the compromise include the nomination of a judge approved of by Michigan Democrat senators and a guarantee the Republicans will not move forward on a ban on filibusters for judicial nominees.
Sounds like a bad deal for Republicans and for anyone who believes in the Constitution. The only right the Constitution gives the Senate is to "advise and consent" on the President's nominees. It does not give the minority party the right to block nominees nor does it give the Democrats the right to suggest or nominate political friends and allies to the bench.
The proposed "compromise" may never see the light of day.
In an interview with USA Today, White House Deputy Chief of Staff, Karl Rove, dismissed suggestions from Democrats that they may drop threats to filibuster judicial nominees if the President withdraws the names of controversial nominees.
“We believe that every judicial nominee deserves an up or down vote,” Rove said. “The process is not well served by these political games.”
Frist, Reid work on deal over judge approvals - Politics - MSNBC.com
USATODAY.com
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Is Hillary Clinton (D-NY) using the Pro-Life movement as a political maneuver? It would seem so, but is that unusual for the presidential hopeful?
A pro-life activist is disappointed that the junior senator from New York will not meet with pro-life groups after expressing interest in the cause.
The Rev. Patrick J. Mahoney, director of the Christian Defense Coalition, said pro-life leaders have been attempting to meet with Clinton, but she has continually declines.
In late January, Sen. Clinton urged a group of abortion rights supporters to find common ground with pro-lifers. "We should be able to agree that we want every child born in this country to be wanted, cherished and loved."
In the same speech, Clinton called abortion "as ad and tragic choice" for women.
In a press release Mahoney said that it now appears that Senator Clinton's remarks were "politically motivated."
Rev. Mahoney, Sen. Clinton is only motivated by politics and ambition. You should have known this.
Pro-Life Activists Question Hillary Clinton's Sincerity -- 04/26/2005
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Conservative talk show host and author Laura Ingraham will undergo treatment for breast cancer today in a New York hospital.
On her website, she said the diagnosis was Friday during a routine exam. Saying that the diagnosis was a "total shock" she is asking for your prayers a she battles the disease.
Check This Out! is a fan of Ingraham and offers a prayer for her speedy recovery.
--
More later.
New Feature
Starting today there will be a new feature on Check This Out!
A new section called Briefs will be included in the updates that appear in the afternoon or evening. This new section will provide readers with a brief headline and a link to a story. The Briefs section will give readers and opportunity to view stories not always covered by the daily briefings and updates.
As always, any comments on the stories or features on Check This Out! are appreciated. Simply send comments to pgsroufe@hotmail.com.
--
Speculation on Capitol Hill is there may be a compromise on Senate filibuster for judicial nominees. Staff for Senate Majority Leader Bill Frist (R-TN) and Senate Minority Leader Harry Reid (D-NV) will only say conversations continue between the two leaders.
Sources close to Reid say the compromise, if agreed to, will have Democrats support two of the President's nominees only if the President will withdraw the names of other judges renominated by the President. Other parts of the compromise include the nomination of a judge approved of by Michigan Democrat senators and a guarantee the Republicans will not move forward on a ban on filibusters for judicial nominees.
Sounds like a bad deal for Republicans and for anyone who believes in the Constitution. The only right the Constitution gives the Senate is to "advise and consent" on the President's nominees. It does not give the minority party the right to block nominees nor does it give the Democrats the right to suggest or nominate political friends and allies to the bench.
The proposed "compromise" may never see the light of day.
In an interview with USA Today, White House Deputy Chief of Staff, Karl Rove, dismissed suggestions from Democrats that they may drop threats to filibuster judicial nominees if the President withdraws the names of controversial nominees.
“We believe that every judicial nominee deserves an up or down vote,” Rove said. “The process is not well served by these political games.”
Frist, Reid work on deal over judge approvals - Politics - MSNBC.com
USATODAY.com
--
Is Hillary Clinton (D-NY) using the Pro-Life movement as a political maneuver? It would seem so, but is that unusual for the presidential hopeful?
A pro-life activist is disappointed that the junior senator from New York will not meet with pro-life groups after expressing interest in the cause.
The Rev. Patrick J. Mahoney, director of the Christian Defense Coalition, said pro-life leaders have been attempting to meet with Clinton, but she has continually declines.
In late January, Sen. Clinton urged a group of abortion rights supporters to find common ground with pro-lifers. "We should be able to agree that we want every child born in this country to be wanted, cherished and loved."
In the same speech, Clinton called abortion "as ad and tragic choice" for women.
In a press release Mahoney said that it now appears that Senator Clinton's remarks were "politically motivated."
Rev. Mahoney, Sen. Clinton is only motivated by politics and ambition. You should have known this.
Pro-Life Activists Question Hillary Clinton's Sincerity -- 04/26/2005
--
Conservative talk show host and author Laura Ingraham will undergo treatment for breast cancer today in a New York hospital.
On her website, she said the diagnosis was Friday during a routine exam. Saying that the diagnosis was a "total shock" she is asking for your prayers a she battles the disease.
Check This Out! is a fan of Ingraham and offers a prayer for her speedy recovery.
--
More later.
Monday, April 25, 2005
Monday Update - 4.25.05
Good afternoon . .
The Supreme Court declined to hear arguments from former POWs in the First Gulf War.
This let's stand the overturning of a multi-million dollar judgment against Saddam Hussein and the Iraq Intelligence Service.
The original lawsuit was brought under a 1996 law that allows lawsuits against state sponsors of terrorism..
The appeals court ruling said that the 17 servicemen and 37 family members could not bring the case under the law at issue.
Following the award, the Justice Department intervened argued the law no longer applied and they cited the emergency appropriations law adopted by Congress that authorized the Administration to suspend sanctions against Iraq and to take it off the list of state sponsors of terrorism.
The Supreme Court rejected the appeal without comment.
Yahoo! News - Supreme Court Rejects Appeal by 1991 POWs in Iraq
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The US Supreme Court will consider whether the IRS can seize Social Security benefits to pay off student loan debt that are more than a decade old.
The 9th District Court of Appeals sided with the Department of Education granting the IRS permission to seize monthly Social Security checks. James Lockhart says that he needs the monthly checks to pay for food or medicine.
The case hinges on a pair of Congressional actions that send a mixed message as to whether Social Security payments are shielded: the Debt Collection Act and the Higher Education Act (HEA).
The HEA. passed in 1991, eliminated the 10 year limit on the government's right to seek collection.
The Debt Collection Act, however, created an exception for Social Security payments. Although it was later amended to include Social Security payemts, the 10 year limit remained intact.
When the case is heard during the Court's new term starting in October, the Court will attempt to resolve the intent of Congress in providing conflicting rules for the collection of student loans.
Yahoo! News - Court to Hear Dispute Over Student Loans
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An Oregon death penalty case will be heard by the US Supreme Court.
The Court agreed to consider whether someone convicted of murder can off evidence during sentencing that casts doubts about culpability.
Randy Guzek was convicted of murder in 1988. During the penalty phase, Guzek sought to introduce transcripts of witness testimony that suggested he could not have been present at the crime scene. Guzek's attorney argued it was "mitigating evidence" relevant to the imposition of the death penalty.
The trial judge ruled it inadmissible, saying such "alibi evidence" is only relevant to the defendants guilt.
The Oregon Supreme Court ruled the 8th Amendment allows this evidence during sentencing, as well as, the guilt phase of the trial.
The state of Oregon is bringing the appeal.
The case will be heard in the Court's new term beginning in October.
Yahoo! News - Supreme Court Takes Up Death Penalty Issue
--
More tomorrow including a report on new (or continued) problems at PBS.
The Supreme Court declined to hear arguments from former POWs in the First Gulf War.
This let's stand the overturning of a multi-million dollar judgment against Saddam Hussein and the Iraq Intelligence Service.
The original lawsuit was brought under a 1996 law that allows lawsuits against state sponsors of terrorism..
The appeals court ruling said that the 17 servicemen and 37 family members could not bring the case under the law at issue.
Following the award, the Justice Department intervened argued the law no longer applied and they cited the emergency appropriations law adopted by Congress that authorized the Administration to suspend sanctions against Iraq and to take it off the list of state sponsors of terrorism.
The Supreme Court rejected the appeal without comment.
Yahoo! News - Supreme Court Rejects Appeal by 1991 POWs in Iraq
--
The US Supreme Court will consider whether the IRS can seize Social Security benefits to pay off student loan debt that are more than a decade old.
The 9th District Court of Appeals sided with the Department of Education granting the IRS permission to seize monthly Social Security checks. James Lockhart says that he needs the monthly checks to pay for food or medicine.
The case hinges on a pair of Congressional actions that send a mixed message as to whether Social Security payments are shielded: the Debt Collection Act and the Higher Education Act (HEA).
The HEA. passed in 1991, eliminated the 10 year limit on the government's right to seek collection.
The Debt Collection Act, however, created an exception for Social Security payments. Although it was later amended to include Social Security payemts, the 10 year limit remained intact.
When the case is heard during the Court's new term starting in October, the Court will attempt to resolve the intent of Congress in providing conflicting rules for the collection of student loans.
Yahoo! News - Court to Hear Dispute Over Student Loans
--
An Oregon death penalty case will be heard by the US Supreme Court.
The Court agreed to consider whether someone convicted of murder can off evidence during sentencing that casts doubts about culpability.
Randy Guzek was convicted of murder in 1988. During the penalty phase, Guzek sought to introduce transcripts of witness testimony that suggested he could not have been present at the crime scene. Guzek's attorney argued it was "mitigating evidence" relevant to the imposition of the death penalty.
The trial judge ruled it inadmissible, saying such "alibi evidence" is only relevant to the defendants guilt.
The Oregon Supreme Court ruled the 8th Amendment allows this evidence during sentencing, as well as, the guilt phase of the trial.
The state of Oregon is bringing the appeal.
The case will be heard in the Court's new term beginning in October.
Yahoo! News - Supreme Court Takes Up Death Penalty Issue
--
More tomorrow including a report on new (or continued) problems at PBS.
Monday Briefing - 4.25.05 - More Problems for DeLay?
Good morning . . .
Could there be other ethics problems for House Majority Leader Tom DeLay (R-TX)? A report in the Sunday Washington Post says a 2000 plane trip to Scotland and London was charged to a lobbyist's credit card. The holder of the American Express card was Jack Abramoff, who at the time worked for the lobbying form of Preston Gates & Ellis. Abramoff is under a federal criminal investigation into his lobbying efforts.
The expenses on Abramoff's card were for plane tickets. Other expenses for the trip were billed to a second credit card registered to registered lobbyist, Edwin Buckham.
The Post report mentions two unnamed sources for the information which includes credit card receipts and invoices for the trip.
Under House ethics rules, lawmakers are prohibited from accepted the payment of trips and related expenses from registered lobbyists.
An attorney for DeLay says that DeLay's staff was aware that Preston Gates & Ellis were working on the arrangements for the trip but DeLay himself was "unaware" of the funding source. DeLay continues to believe the trip was funded by the National Center for Public Policy Research.
Perhaps, DeLay's attorneys are being a little disingenuous.
If the Post story is true, it is just one more problem for the Majority Leader that will lessen his ability to move the Bush agenda forward in the House. Perhaps, it is time for DeLay to take a step back, work through the ethics and other legal problems, and either resume his leadership role or resign.
Yahoo! News - DeLay Trip Charged to Lobbyist Credit Card- Report
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It is one thing when a once-respected anchor attempts to change the course of a US presidential election with, obviously, forged documents. It is quite another things when the New Division at one of the world's most respected news organizations plants hecklers to change the course of an election.
That is the case in the UK. The BBC has admitted that it planted hecklers with microphones in a crowd listening to a speech from Conservative Leader Michael Howard.
The almost-monopoly network then taped the event emphasizing the hecklers instead of the speeches.
Guy Black, head of Communicators for the Conservative Party write to the BBC saying the hecklers began shouting slogans that were distracting and clearly hostile to the Conservative Party".
The BBC claimed that the "exercise" was part of a "completely legitimate programme about the history and art of political heckling" and said that other parties' meetings were being "observed". However, The Telegraph has established that none of Tony Blair's meetings was infiltrated or disrupted in similar fashion.
The Conservatives have called for an apology and an assurance that it will never happen again. Plus they have demanded the BBC never show the footage.
The BBC has promised to investigate "very fully." The BBC and other British broadcasters have a statutory duty to remain impartial during election campaigns.
I hope this investigation will not be the "whitewash" that the CBS investigation became.
Telegraph | News | Tory fury as BBC sends hecklers to bait Howard
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Not everyone on Washington thinks John Bolton should not be confirmed as ambassador to the UN. The Democrats biggest problem is Bolton's management style. As noted here before, there are many bad bosses in Washington and elsewhere, Bolton may be one of them.
Over forty of Bolton's former colleagues at the American Enterprise Institute want to set the record straight.
IN a letter to the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, former colleagues defended Bolton's management style and conduct.
"We were colleagues of John Bolton during his tenure as senior vice president of the American Enterprise Institute from January 1997 through May 2001. We are writing to tell you and your colleagues that the various allegations that have been raised before your Committee, concerning Mr. Bolton's management style and conduct in other organizations and circumstances, are radically at odds with our experiences in more than four years of intense, frequent and continuous interaction with him."
The letter addressed to Chairman Richard Lugar (R-IN) and ranking member Joseph Biden (D-DE), said Bolton was a demanding colleague al right - as demanding of himself as he was of others.
"Contrary to the portrayals of his accusers, he combines a temperate disposition, good spirit, and utter honesty with his well-known attributes of exceptional intelligence and intensity of purpose," his former AEI colleagues wrote.
Such a "rare combination" is a "highly desirable" attribute for the next U.N. ambassador, the letter said.
President Bush continues to support Bolton's nomination, calling him the right man for the UN job. A vote on the committee has been delayed until May 12.
Former Colleagues Defend Bolton's Management Style -- 04/25/2005
--
More later.
Could there be other ethics problems for House Majority Leader Tom DeLay (R-TX)? A report in the Sunday Washington Post says a 2000 plane trip to Scotland and London was charged to a lobbyist's credit card. The holder of the American Express card was Jack Abramoff, who at the time worked for the lobbying form of Preston Gates & Ellis. Abramoff is under a federal criminal investigation into his lobbying efforts.
The expenses on Abramoff's card were for plane tickets. Other expenses for the trip were billed to a second credit card registered to registered lobbyist, Edwin Buckham.
The Post report mentions two unnamed sources for the information which includes credit card receipts and invoices for the trip.
Under House ethics rules, lawmakers are prohibited from accepted the payment of trips and related expenses from registered lobbyists.
An attorney for DeLay says that DeLay's staff was aware that Preston Gates & Ellis were working on the arrangements for the trip but DeLay himself was "unaware" of the funding source. DeLay continues to believe the trip was funded by the National Center for Public Policy Research.
Perhaps, DeLay's attorneys are being a little disingenuous.
If the Post story is true, it is just one more problem for the Majority Leader that will lessen his ability to move the Bush agenda forward in the House. Perhaps, it is time for DeLay to take a step back, work through the ethics and other legal problems, and either resume his leadership role or resign.
Yahoo! News - DeLay Trip Charged to Lobbyist Credit Card- Report
--
It is one thing when a once-respected anchor attempts to change the course of a US presidential election with, obviously, forged documents. It is quite another things when the New Division at one of the world's most respected news organizations plants hecklers to change the course of an election.
That is the case in the UK. The BBC has admitted that it planted hecklers with microphones in a crowd listening to a speech from Conservative Leader Michael Howard.
The almost-monopoly network then taped the event emphasizing the hecklers instead of the speeches.
Guy Black, head of Communicators for the Conservative Party write to the BBC saying the hecklers began shouting slogans that were distracting and clearly hostile to the Conservative Party".
The BBC claimed that the "exercise" was part of a "completely legitimate programme about the history and art of political heckling" and said that other parties' meetings were being "observed". However, The Telegraph has established that none of Tony Blair's meetings was infiltrated or disrupted in similar fashion.
The Conservatives have called for an apology and an assurance that it will never happen again. Plus they have demanded the BBC never show the footage.
The BBC has promised to investigate "very fully." The BBC and other British broadcasters have a statutory duty to remain impartial during election campaigns.
I hope this investigation will not be the "whitewash" that the CBS investigation became.
Telegraph | News | Tory fury as BBC sends hecklers to bait Howard
--
Not everyone on Washington thinks John Bolton should not be confirmed as ambassador to the UN. The Democrats biggest problem is Bolton's management style. As noted here before, there are many bad bosses in Washington and elsewhere, Bolton may be one of them.
Over forty of Bolton's former colleagues at the American Enterprise Institute want to set the record straight.
IN a letter to the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, former colleagues defended Bolton's management style and conduct.
"We were colleagues of John Bolton during his tenure as senior vice president of the American Enterprise Institute from January 1997 through May 2001. We are writing to tell you and your colleagues that the various allegations that have been raised before your Committee, concerning Mr. Bolton's management style and conduct in other organizations and circumstances, are radically at odds with our experiences in more than four years of intense, frequent and continuous interaction with him."
The letter addressed to Chairman Richard Lugar (R-IN) and ranking member Joseph Biden (D-DE), said Bolton was a demanding colleague al right - as demanding of himself as he was of others.
"Contrary to the portrayals of his accusers, he combines a temperate disposition, good spirit, and utter honesty with his well-known attributes of exceptional intelligence and intensity of purpose," his former AEI colleagues wrote.
Such a "rare combination" is a "highly desirable" attribute for the next U.N. ambassador, the letter said.
President Bush continues to support Bolton's nomination, calling him the right man for the UN job. A vote on the committee has been delayed until May 12.
Former Colleagues Defend Bolton's Management Style -- 04/25/2005
--
More later.
Friday, April 22, 2005
Friday Update - 4.22.05 - Moussaoui Pleads Guilty
Good afternoon .. .
Zacarias Moussaoui pleaded guilty today to all six counts of the indictment against him. Moussaoui is the only person convicted in the al-Qaida led attacks on September 11, 2001.
US District Judge Leonie Brinkmea accepted the plea from the French citizen making him eligible for the death penalty.
During the proceeding Judge Brinkmea asked Moussaoui how he plead to each count of the indictment. To each count he replied, "Guilty."
Earlier in the day, Moussaoui's attorneys filed a brief stating that he was not competent to enter a plea. Judge Brinkmea denied the motion.
The penalty phase of the trial will follow where a jury will decide on a sentence. No date has been set for a hearing.
Moussaoui Pleads Guilty to Terror Charges - Yahoo! News
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Vice President Cheney has stepped into the fight over changing Senate rules to stop filibusters on judicial nominees.
In a speech to the Republican National Lawyers Association, Cheney said he would vote in the Senate to stop filibusters if given the chance.
The Republicans currently hold 55 seats in the 100 member body, and the vice president would only vote if there was a tie.
"There is no justification for allowing the blocking of nominees who are well qualified and broadly supported," Cheney said. "The tactics of the last few years, I believe, are inexcusable, particularly when you are dealing with men and women of the caliber of those nominated by George W. Bush. By any standard of judicial merit, they are fully qualified to serve and by any standard of fairness, they deserve a vote in the United States Senate."
Democrats say it is Cheney who is trying to reinvent Senate history by changing the filibuster
Senate Minority Leader Harry Reid said that Cheney's statement demonstrates that the President is no longer willing to work with Democrats on judicial nominees.
Mr. Reid, the President does not need to work with you on any nomination judicial or otherwise. The Senate's role is to "advise and consent" on the nominee by providing him or her with an up or down vote of the Senate floor. By using the filibuster you are denying the nominee an opportunity. If you do not like a nominee vote against them, but give them the opportunity for a vote. With a clear majority in the Senate, Democrats fear a "radical" judiciary. The only "radical" federal court is the Democrat/liberal dominated US 9th Circuit in California. The 9th Circuit is the most overturned District Court in the country.Cheney Warns Dems on Judicial Filibusters - Yahoo! News
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More on Monday.
Zacarias Moussaoui pleaded guilty today to all six counts of the indictment against him. Moussaoui is the only person convicted in the al-Qaida led attacks on September 11, 2001.
US District Judge Leonie Brinkmea accepted the plea from the French citizen making him eligible for the death penalty.
During the proceeding Judge Brinkmea asked Moussaoui how he plead to each count of the indictment. To each count he replied, "Guilty."
Earlier in the day, Moussaoui's attorneys filed a brief stating that he was not competent to enter a plea. Judge Brinkmea denied the motion.
The penalty phase of the trial will follow where a jury will decide on a sentence. No date has been set for a hearing.
Moussaoui Pleads Guilty to Terror Charges - Yahoo! News
--
Vice President Cheney has stepped into the fight over changing Senate rules to stop filibusters on judicial nominees.
In a speech to the Republican National Lawyers Association, Cheney said he would vote in the Senate to stop filibusters if given the chance.
The Republicans currently hold 55 seats in the 100 member body, and the vice president would only vote if there was a tie.
"There is no justification for allowing the blocking of nominees who are well qualified and broadly supported," Cheney said. "The tactics of the last few years, I believe, are inexcusable, particularly when you are dealing with men and women of the caliber of those nominated by George W. Bush. By any standard of judicial merit, they are fully qualified to serve and by any standard of fairness, they deserve a vote in the United States Senate."
Democrats say it is Cheney who is trying to reinvent Senate history by changing the filibuster
Senate Minority Leader Harry Reid said that Cheney's statement demonstrates that the President is no longer willing to work with Democrats on judicial nominees.
Mr. Reid, the President does not need to work with you on any nomination judicial or otherwise. The Senate's role is to "advise and consent" on the nominee by providing him or her with an up or down vote of the Senate floor. By using the filibuster you are denying the nominee an opportunity. If you do not like a nominee vote against them, but give them the opportunity for a vote. With a clear majority in the Senate, Democrats fear a "radical" judiciary. The only "radical" federal court is the Democrat/liberal dominated US 9th Circuit in California. The 9th Circuit is the most overturned District Court in the country.Cheney Warns Dems on Judicial Filibusters - Yahoo! News
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More on Monday.
Friday Briefing - 4.22.05 - Moussaoui Lawyers Intervene
Good afternoon . . .
Just hours before a hearing, the lawyers for Zacarias Moussaoui filed a brief saying their client was incompetent to plead guilty to crimes that carry the death penalty.
The papers were filed under seal and were not available to the press. Moussaoui's lawyers had no comment on the filing other than saying it was planned.
US District Judge Leonie Brinkmea met with Moussaoui earlier in the week and concluded he was competent to enter a plea and was aware of the consequences. Following the meeting, Judge Brinkmea scheduled a hearing for Friday.
Moussaoui is the only person charged in the United States for his part in the attacks on 9/11.
My Way News
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The Virginia Supreme Court has affirmed the capital murder conviction =s and death penalty for John Alan Muhammad. Muhammad was convicted of killing Dean Harold Meyers and one of the ten killed in the sniper shootings in the Washington DC area in October 2002.
Lawyers for Muhammad argued that he could not be sentenced to death under state law because, they say, he was not the triggerman in the shooting spree. They also claim that the anti-terrorism act that was the basis for the capital murder charge is unconstitutional.
"If society's ultimate penalty should be reserved for the most heinous offenses, accompanied by proof of vileness or future dangerousness, then surely this case qualifies," Justice Donald Lemons wrote.
The Supreme Court unanimously upheld the conviction under the anti-terrorism law, but split 4-3 on the triggerman conviction.
Muhammad's partner in the shootings, John Lee Malvo, is serving a life sentence without parole for the slayings of a Philadelphia businessman and an FBI analyst.
Va. Court Affirms Sniper's Death Penalty - Yahoo! News
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The State of Georgia adds its name to a growing lists of states that will require a photo ID before a voter can cast a ballot.
Gov. Sonny Perdue signed legislation that requires photo identification. The legislation caused black lawmakers to walk out of the state capitol.
Republicans, who control both legislative houses, pushed the bill through in an attempt to curb voter fraud.
"I believe this is a reasonable requirement," said Perdue, also a Republican. "It will not be a hardship on any voter."
Opponents say that acquiring a photo ID will be a hardship on the poor, elderly, and most minorities. This is the same failed argument used in other states that now require photo identification for voters.
Ga. Gov. Signs Voter ID Mandate Into Law - Yahoo! News
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Do you own your name?
Until recently Hillary Clinton did not own www.hilliaryclinton.com. An Italian woman had registered the domain for her private use. Individuals going to the site were diverted to a search engine which subsequently "hijacked" the users home page.
Mrs. Clinton initiated an arbitration to win control of the domain for herself. She argued that the domain was identical to her HILLARY CLINTON trademark.
The arbitrator found in favor of Clinton. He said that Clinton has a common law trademark in HILLARY CLINTON as established through her political activities and her successful Senate campaign. The arbitrator also said the domain was identical to the HILLARY CLINTON mark as the ".com" designation is irrelevant under the law.
The arbitrator concluded the registration of www.hillaryclinton.com was in bad faith and ordered its transfer to the junior senator from New York.
USATODAY.com - Hillary: 'It takes a Domain Name'
--
More later.
Just hours before a hearing, the lawyers for Zacarias Moussaoui filed a brief saying their client was incompetent to plead guilty to crimes that carry the death penalty.
The papers were filed under seal and were not available to the press. Moussaoui's lawyers had no comment on the filing other than saying it was planned.
US District Judge Leonie Brinkmea met with Moussaoui earlier in the week and concluded he was competent to enter a plea and was aware of the consequences. Following the meeting, Judge Brinkmea scheduled a hearing for Friday.
Moussaoui is the only person charged in the United States for his part in the attacks on 9/11.
My Way News
--
The Virginia Supreme Court has affirmed the capital murder conviction =s and death penalty for John Alan Muhammad. Muhammad was convicted of killing Dean Harold Meyers and one of the ten killed in the sniper shootings in the Washington DC area in October 2002.
Lawyers for Muhammad argued that he could not be sentenced to death under state law because, they say, he was not the triggerman in the shooting spree. They also claim that the anti-terrorism act that was the basis for the capital murder charge is unconstitutional.
"If society's ultimate penalty should be reserved for the most heinous offenses, accompanied by proof of vileness or future dangerousness, then surely this case qualifies," Justice Donald Lemons wrote.
The Supreme Court unanimously upheld the conviction under the anti-terrorism law, but split 4-3 on the triggerman conviction.
Muhammad's partner in the shootings, John Lee Malvo, is serving a life sentence without parole for the slayings of a Philadelphia businessman and an FBI analyst.
Va. Court Affirms Sniper's Death Penalty - Yahoo! News
--
The State of Georgia adds its name to a growing lists of states that will require a photo ID before a voter can cast a ballot.
Gov. Sonny Perdue signed legislation that requires photo identification. The legislation caused black lawmakers to walk out of the state capitol.
Republicans, who control both legislative houses, pushed the bill through in an attempt to curb voter fraud.
"I believe this is a reasonable requirement," said Perdue, also a Republican. "It will not be a hardship on any voter."
Opponents say that acquiring a photo ID will be a hardship on the poor, elderly, and most minorities. This is the same failed argument used in other states that now require photo identification for voters.
Ga. Gov. Signs Voter ID Mandate Into Law - Yahoo! News
--
Do you own your name?
Until recently Hillary Clinton did not own www.hilliaryclinton.com. An Italian woman had registered the domain for her private use. Individuals going to the site were diverted to a search engine which subsequently "hijacked" the users home page.
Mrs. Clinton initiated an arbitration to win control of the domain for herself. She argued that the domain was identical to her HILLARY CLINTON trademark.
The arbitrator found in favor of Clinton. He said that Clinton has a common law trademark in HILLARY CLINTON as established through her political activities and her successful Senate campaign. The arbitrator also said the domain was identical to the HILLARY CLINTON mark as the ".com" designation is irrelevant under the law.
The arbitrator concluded the registration of www.hillaryclinton.com was in bad faith and ordered its transfer to the junior senator from New York.
USATODAY.com - Hillary: 'It takes a Domain Name'
--
More later.
Thursday, April 21, 2005
Thursday Update - 4.21.05
Good afternoon . . .
Jurors are generally admonished not to discuss a case or read, listen, or watch media reports. A juror in a Virginia murder case chose to ignore the court order and bought a newspaper on the day the guilty verdict was delivered.
Prince William County Circuit Court Judge Rossie Alston threw out the guilty verdict of Gerardo Lara after the defense produced a videotape of juror Lindy Heaster buying a newspaper.
Heaster was held in contempt of court for her actions.
Last Friday defense attorney John Shields told the court he saw Heaster buy the paper and requested a mistrial. Judge Alston denied the motion after Heaster swore under oath she purchased only coffee.
After the verdict was delivered and a 40 year sentence was imposed on Lara, Shileds found the store's surveillance tape and the receipt for Heaster's purchase.
Prosecutors will have to refile the case to continue. I hope Ms Heaster enjoyed her coffee and newspaper. Heaster could also face perjury charges.
Juror Buys Paper, Judge Declares Mistrial
--
Ever think about e-mailing the Pope? Well, now you can.
Pope Benedict XVI's email address is: benedictxvi@vatican.va
I wonder what kind of response you'll get.
His predecessor John Paul II also had an e-mail address. Vatican officials say he received thousands of messages during the last weeks of his life. No word on how many messages Pope Benedict XVI has received.
Pope Benedict XVI Gets E-Mail Address - Yahoo! News
--
More tomorrow.
Jurors are generally admonished not to discuss a case or read, listen, or watch media reports. A juror in a Virginia murder case chose to ignore the court order and bought a newspaper on the day the guilty verdict was delivered.
Prince William County Circuit Court Judge Rossie Alston threw out the guilty verdict of Gerardo Lara after the defense produced a videotape of juror Lindy Heaster buying a newspaper.
Heaster was held in contempt of court for her actions.
Last Friday defense attorney John Shields told the court he saw Heaster buy the paper and requested a mistrial. Judge Alston denied the motion after Heaster swore under oath she purchased only coffee.
After the verdict was delivered and a 40 year sentence was imposed on Lara, Shileds found the store's surveillance tape and the receipt for Heaster's purchase.
Prosecutors will have to refile the case to continue. I hope Ms Heaster enjoyed her coffee and newspaper. Heaster could also face perjury charges.
Juror Buys Paper, Judge Declares Mistrial
--
Ever think about e-mailing the Pope? Well, now you can.
Pope Benedict XVI's email address is: benedictxvi@vatican.va
I wonder what kind of response you'll get.
His predecessor John Paul II also had an e-mail address. Vatican officials say he received thousands of messages during the last weeks of his life. No word on how many messages Pope Benedict XVI has received.
Pope Benedict XVI Gets E-Mail Address - Yahoo! News
--
More tomorrow.
Thursday Briefing - 4.21.05 - Showdown!
Good morning . . .
On a straight party line vote, the Senate Judiciary Committee will send the nomination of Priscilla Owen for a seat on the 5th US Circuit Court of Appeals in New Orleans to the full Senate.
The panel is expected to do the same for Janice Rogers Brown who was nominated to the US District Court of Appeals in Washington DC. Both Owen and Brown were blocked from an up or down vote by threats of a Democrat filibuster. President Bush renominated them along with 8 others after he won re-election in November. Democrats consider Owen and Brown too conservative for a lifetime appointment.
The committee's action will bring closer a confrontation over a change in Senate rules to block filibusters on judicial nominees.
Senate Majority Leader Bill Frist (R-TN) is working hard to find the 51 votes necessary to change the rule. There are 55 Republicans in the Senate. 609 votes are needed to close a filibuster. If the rules are changed, Democrats have vowed to "slow down" Senate business on all other bills except legislation to support the military. If Demoicrats make good on their threat, it could shutdown the government later this year.
No date has been set for Senate debate on the nominations.
Senate Panel OKs Bush Judicial Nominee - Yahoo! News
--
More later.
On a straight party line vote, the Senate Judiciary Committee will send the nomination of Priscilla Owen for a seat on the 5th US Circuit Court of Appeals in New Orleans to the full Senate.
The panel is expected to do the same for Janice Rogers Brown who was nominated to the US District Court of Appeals in Washington DC. Both Owen and Brown were blocked from an up or down vote by threats of a Democrat filibuster. President Bush renominated them along with 8 others after he won re-election in November. Democrats consider Owen and Brown too conservative for a lifetime appointment.
The committee's action will bring closer a confrontation over a change in Senate rules to block filibusters on judicial nominees.
Senate Majority Leader Bill Frist (R-TN) is working hard to find the 51 votes necessary to change the rule. There are 55 Republicans in the Senate. 609 votes are needed to close a filibuster. If the rules are changed, Democrats have vowed to "slow down" Senate business on all other bills except legislation to support the military. If Demoicrats make good on their threat, it could shutdown the government later this year.
No date has been set for Senate debate on the nominations.
Senate Panel OKs Bush Judicial Nominee - Yahoo! News
--
More later.
Wednesday Update - 4.20.05 - DeLay DeLay
Good evening . . .
House Majority Leader Tom DeLay has done many good things in Congress. He has been extremely helpful pushing legislation through the Republican controlled House to support President Bush's agenda and programs.
DeLay has also done some things that make him, the Republicans, and the House look bad or maybe just make it look like "business as usual." His efforts to push through a bill to reinsert a feeding tube into Terri Schiavo is a prime example. The bill which was at best inappropriate and at worst unconstitutional attempted to interfere in the private business of a family in crisis. The main contention between the Schiavo's and the Schindler's was money from a court judgment. It was not, for the most part, concern for the life of Terri Schiavo. It also was not the business of Congress to interfere. The bill was not appropriate and unfounded. Nevertheless, DeLay pushed it through thinking only of the political gain plus a diversion from his ethics problems.
Following the death of Terri Schiavo DeLay decided to go after the federal judges who ruled by the law instead of the "will of Congress." DeLay made statements that were inappropriate and threatened to investigate and impeach the judges involved in the case. His remarks unfounded and demonstrates a lack of knowledge of the separation of powers and an independent judiciary. Under the Constitution there are three branches of government, not one or two controlled by a third. DeLay seeks to have Congressional oversight of the judiciary. Many Republicans including the vice president quickly distanced themselves from DeLay's remarks.
DeLay later apologized for his remarks. His apology was insincere.
DeLay appeared on Fox News Radio Tuesday and continued his attack on the federal judiciary. This time he aimed his vitriol at Supreme Court Justice Anthony Kennedy. Justice Kennedy is a Reagan appointed justice whose opinions and rulings have moved to the "center-of-the-road" during his tenure on the Court.
DeLay has decided that Kennedy's use of international law on rulings and doing research on the Internet is "incredibly outrageous." He characterized Justice Kennedy as a activist judge, a term usual reserved for liberal-leaning judges by conservatives.
I wonder Mr. DeLay if any of your aides and lackeys use the Internet to research proposed legislation or is your office so backward that you still use a quill pen. Your remarks about the judiciary are "incredibly outrageous." Your conduct is becoming unacceptable.
While I am a proud Republican, my support of Tom DeLay is wavering. If any of the ethics allegations are found to be true, it is time for you to leave your post as Majority Leader and, possibly, leave Congress.
DeLay Slams Supreme Court Justice - Yahoo! News
--
The House Ethics Committee is ready to proceed with an investigation of the ethics allegations against Majority Leader To DeLay.
Four of the five Republicans on the committee are ready to move forward with the investigation.
While the Republicans are ready their efforts are being blocked by Democrats. Alan Mollohan (d-WV), ranking Democrat, rejected the offer, his party would continue blocking the panel unless a bipartisan task force was appointed to write new rules for investigating lawmakers.
So, the Republicans have agreed to investigate DeLay. The Democrats will block the investigation because they do not like the rules, but the Democrats will continue to complain about DeLay.
In other words, the Democrats won't take "yes" for an answer and will continue partisan attacks on DeLay and the Ethics Committee.
Ethics Chairman Proposes Probe of Delay - Yahoo! News
--
A US District judge will allow Zacarias Moussaoui to enter a guilty plea at a hearing set for Friday.
Judge Leonie Brinkmea met with Moussaoui Wednesday. Following a meeting with Moussaoui on Wednesday Judge Brinkmea said the defendant was competent to plead guilty to the indictment.
The indictment accuses Moussaoui of conspiracy to commit acts of terrorism, commit aircraft piracy, destroy aircraft, murder government employees and destroy property. The first four charges carry a maximum sentence of death.
Sources close to the case say that the government will seek the death penalty.
This is the second time Moussaoui has wanted to plead guilty. In 2002 Moussaoui wanted to plead guilty, but his attorneys and the judge wanted him to discuss the issue. He later withdrew the guilty plea.
Moussaoui is the only person indicted for the terror attacks on the World Trade Center and the Pentagon on September 11, 2001.
Moussaoui Could Face Death Penalty - Yahoo! News
--
More tomorrow.
House Majority Leader Tom DeLay has done many good things in Congress. He has been extremely helpful pushing legislation through the Republican controlled House to support President Bush's agenda and programs.
DeLay has also done some things that make him, the Republicans, and the House look bad or maybe just make it look like "business as usual." His efforts to push through a bill to reinsert a feeding tube into Terri Schiavo is a prime example. The bill which was at best inappropriate and at worst unconstitutional attempted to interfere in the private business of a family in crisis. The main contention between the Schiavo's and the Schindler's was money from a court judgment. It was not, for the most part, concern for the life of Terri Schiavo. It also was not the business of Congress to interfere. The bill was not appropriate and unfounded. Nevertheless, DeLay pushed it through thinking only of the political gain plus a diversion from his ethics problems.
Following the death of Terri Schiavo DeLay decided to go after the federal judges who ruled by the law instead of the "will of Congress." DeLay made statements that were inappropriate and threatened to investigate and impeach the judges involved in the case. His remarks unfounded and demonstrates a lack of knowledge of the separation of powers and an independent judiciary. Under the Constitution there are three branches of government, not one or two controlled by a third. DeLay seeks to have Congressional oversight of the judiciary. Many Republicans including the vice president quickly distanced themselves from DeLay's remarks.
DeLay later apologized for his remarks. His apology was insincere.
DeLay appeared on Fox News Radio Tuesday and continued his attack on the federal judiciary. This time he aimed his vitriol at Supreme Court Justice Anthony Kennedy. Justice Kennedy is a Reagan appointed justice whose opinions and rulings have moved to the "center-of-the-road" during his tenure on the Court.
DeLay has decided that Kennedy's use of international law on rulings and doing research on the Internet is "incredibly outrageous." He characterized Justice Kennedy as a activist judge, a term usual reserved for liberal-leaning judges by conservatives.
I wonder Mr. DeLay if any of your aides and lackeys use the Internet to research proposed legislation or is your office so backward that you still use a quill pen. Your remarks about the judiciary are "incredibly outrageous." Your conduct is becoming unacceptable.
While I am a proud Republican, my support of Tom DeLay is wavering. If any of the ethics allegations are found to be true, it is time for you to leave your post as Majority Leader and, possibly, leave Congress.
DeLay Slams Supreme Court Justice - Yahoo! News
--
The House Ethics Committee is ready to proceed with an investigation of the ethics allegations against Majority Leader To DeLay.
Four of the five Republicans on the committee are ready to move forward with the investigation.
While the Republicans are ready their efforts are being blocked by Democrats. Alan Mollohan (d-WV), ranking Democrat, rejected the offer, his party would continue blocking the panel unless a bipartisan task force was appointed to write new rules for investigating lawmakers.
So, the Republicans have agreed to investigate DeLay. The Democrats will block the investigation because they do not like the rules, but the Democrats will continue to complain about DeLay.
In other words, the Democrats won't take "yes" for an answer and will continue partisan attacks on DeLay and the Ethics Committee.
Ethics Chairman Proposes Probe of Delay - Yahoo! News
--
A US District judge will allow Zacarias Moussaoui to enter a guilty plea at a hearing set for Friday.
Judge Leonie Brinkmea met with Moussaoui Wednesday. Following a meeting with Moussaoui on Wednesday Judge Brinkmea said the defendant was competent to plead guilty to the indictment.
The indictment accuses Moussaoui of conspiracy to commit acts of terrorism, commit aircraft piracy, destroy aircraft, murder government employees and destroy property. The first four charges carry a maximum sentence of death.
Sources close to the case say that the government will seek the death penalty.
This is the second time Moussaoui has wanted to plead guilty. In 2002 Moussaoui wanted to plead guilty, but his attorneys and the judge wanted him to discuss the issue. He later withdrew the guilty plea.
Moussaoui is the only person indicted for the terror attacks on the World Trade Center and the Pentagon on September 11, 2001.
Moussaoui Could Face Death Penalty - Yahoo! News
--
More tomorrow.
Wednesday, April 20, 2005
Wednesday Briefing - 4.20.05 - Frist Describes Filibuster Ban
Good morning . . .
Senate Majority Leader Bill Frist (R-TN) pledged that the proposed ban on filibusters for judicial nominees would not apply to legislation.
"There is no need for change in relation to legislative matters," Frist said in a statement issued before GOP senators met for their weekly policy meeting.
Democrats quickly questioned whether future Senate leaders would do the same now that Frist has opened the door. Yes, probably a very liberal Democrat would extend the rule to all bills and nominations just because he could. It is unlikely that Democrats will regain control of the Senate in the foreseeable future.
While Frist said the rule change will apply only to judicial nominees, he may extend it to all Presidential appointments if the Democrats choose to filibuster the nomination of John Bolton.
A simple majority is all that is necessary to change Senate rules. 60 votes are currently required to end a filibuster. There are 55 Republicans, 44 Democrats, and 1 Independent (usually votes with Democrats) serving in the US Senate.
Frist: Filibuster Ban Won't Include Bills - Yahoo! News
--
The reign of Pope Benedict XVI begins today. He outlined his to priorities during a Mass for the College of Cardinals in the Sistine Chapel.
He said his "primary task" was the reunification of all Christians and he would continue an "open and honest dialogue" with other religions.
The main purpose of his message was to show that Benedict was intent on following many of the groundbreaking paths of his predecessor.
I too ... want to affirm with decisive willingness to follow in the commitment of carrying out the Second Vatican Council, in the wake of my predecessors and in faithful continuity with the 2,000-year-old tradition of the church," Benedict said.
While many in the American media and some American Catholics consider him a hard-line conservative, Benedict will chart his own course for the future of the Church. Liberal Catholics, primarily in America, will not like his stance on abortion, homosexuality, the role of women, and celibacy because they reflect the teachings of the Church.
While some are describing the new Pope as a hardline conservative, American cardinals describe him as a caring and brilliant churchman who listens to those with opposing views.
New Pope Vows to Work to Unify Christians - Yahoo! News
--
Senator George Voinovich (R-OH) has received more than his fair share of support from the GOP in races that he should have lost. His re-election in November was a surprise for many Ohioians and members of the GOP. His current term is likely to be his last and his stance on Bush appointees could speed up the process.
Tuesday Voinovich joined Democrats on the Senate Foreign Relations Committee to block, for the moment, the nomination of John Bolton as ambassador to the UN. Voinovich like the whining Democrats is concerned about Bolton's "abuse" of subordinates. In one case, the subordinate in question lied to Bolton and was disciplined accordingly.
Without Voinovich's vote, the nomination could die in committee. Sen. Lincoln Chaffe (R-RI) who has been waffling on the nomination, also asked for the vote to be delayed because the "dynamic has changed."
"John Bolton is exactly the person we need at the United Nations at this time," White House spokesman Scott McClellan said on Tuesday, after the Senate Foreign Relations Committee postponed its planned vote.
The White House is correct. The US needs an ambassador at the UN who will protect the country's interests and not side with countries and "allies" who vote against the US every chance they get.
Republican Accused of 'Bolton Betrayal' -- 04/20/2005
--
This could be good news or bas news.
Sen. James Jeffords (I-VT) who deserted Republicans and gave the Democrats a majority in the Senate four years ago will announce Wednesday that he will not seek another term in the Senate.
Jeffords office will neither confirm or deny that the announcement, but a press conference has been scheduled for this afternoon in Burlington.
Jeffords, 70, is serving his third term as Senator for Vermont.
AP: Sen. Jeffords Won't Seek Re-Election - Yahoo! News
--
More later.
Senate Majority Leader Bill Frist (R-TN) pledged that the proposed ban on filibusters for judicial nominees would not apply to legislation.
"There is no need for change in relation to legislative matters," Frist said in a statement issued before GOP senators met for their weekly policy meeting.
Democrats quickly questioned whether future Senate leaders would do the same now that Frist has opened the door. Yes, probably a very liberal Democrat would extend the rule to all bills and nominations just because he could. It is unlikely that Democrats will regain control of the Senate in the foreseeable future.
While Frist said the rule change will apply only to judicial nominees, he may extend it to all Presidential appointments if the Democrats choose to filibuster the nomination of John Bolton.
A simple majority is all that is necessary to change Senate rules. 60 votes are currently required to end a filibuster. There are 55 Republicans, 44 Democrats, and 1 Independent (usually votes with Democrats) serving in the US Senate.
Frist: Filibuster Ban Won't Include Bills - Yahoo! News
--
The reign of Pope Benedict XVI begins today. He outlined his to priorities during a Mass for the College of Cardinals in the Sistine Chapel.
He said his "primary task" was the reunification of all Christians and he would continue an "open and honest dialogue" with other religions.
The main purpose of his message was to show that Benedict was intent on following many of the groundbreaking paths of his predecessor.
I too ... want to affirm with decisive willingness to follow in the commitment of carrying out the Second Vatican Council, in the wake of my predecessors and in faithful continuity with the 2,000-year-old tradition of the church," Benedict said.
While many in the American media and some American Catholics consider him a hard-line conservative, Benedict will chart his own course for the future of the Church. Liberal Catholics, primarily in America, will not like his stance on abortion, homosexuality, the role of women, and celibacy because they reflect the teachings of the Church.
While some are describing the new Pope as a hardline conservative, American cardinals describe him as a caring and brilliant churchman who listens to those with opposing views.
New Pope Vows to Work to Unify Christians - Yahoo! News
--
Senator George Voinovich (R-OH) has received more than his fair share of support from the GOP in races that he should have lost. His re-election in November was a surprise for many Ohioians and members of the GOP. His current term is likely to be his last and his stance on Bush appointees could speed up the process.
Tuesday Voinovich joined Democrats on the Senate Foreign Relations Committee to block, for the moment, the nomination of John Bolton as ambassador to the UN. Voinovich like the whining Democrats is concerned about Bolton's "abuse" of subordinates. In one case, the subordinate in question lied to Bolton and was disciplined accordingly.
Without Voinovich's vote, the nomination could die in committee. Sen. Lincoln Chaffe (R-RI) who has been waffling on the nomination, also asked for the vote to be delayed because the "dynamic has changed."
"John Bolton is exactly the person we need at the United Nations at this time," White House spokesman Scott McClellan said on Tuesday, after the Senate Foreign Relations Committee postponed its planned vote.
The White House is correct. The US needs an ambassador at the UN who will protect the country's interests and not side with countries and "allies" who vote against the US every chance they get.
Republican Accused of 'Bolton Betrayal' -- 04/20/2005
--
This could be good news or bas news.
Sen. James Jeffords (I-VT) who deserted Republicans and gave the Democrats a majority in the Senate four years ago will announce Wednesday that he will not seek another term in the Senate.
Jeffords office will neither confirm or deny that the announcement, but a press conference has been scheduled for this afternoon in Burlington.
Jeffords, 70, is serving his third term as Senator for Vermont.
AP: Sen. Jeffords Won't Seek Re-Election - Yahoo! News
--
More later.
Tuesday, April 19, 2005
Tuesday Update - 4.19.05 - OK City Remembers
Good afternoon . . .
April 19, 1995 was a clear and pleasant spring day in Oklahoma City until 9:02 AM. At that precise moment the calm and innocence of the city was shattered by a truck bomb placed in from of the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building.
The bomb destroyed the building killing 168 men, women, and children and affected the life of thousands in Oklahoma City and around the country. It was a terrorist attack, but these terrorists were not from a foreign country. These terrorists were Americans. Americans who, for some reason, did not like the federal government and this was their response.
Tim McVeigh and Terry Nichols were the leaders. McVeigh was convicted and sentenced to death. He was executed in June 2001.
Terry Nichols was convicted in both federal and state courts and is serving multiple life sentences without the possibility of parole.
Today marks the 10th anniversary of the nation's worst act of domestic terrorism. In the church that served as a temporary morgue, 1600 people gathered to remember the victims, as well as, the survivors. Former President Bill Clinton and Vice President Dick Cheney spoke at the memorial service.
Across the street from the church is the Oklahoma,a City Memorial Park which features 168 chairs for the victims including 19 small chairs to memorialize the children killed in the incident.
Silence Recalls Oklahoma City Victims - Yahoo! News
--
The Washington Post reported in a story today that Zacarias Moussaoui, the only person charged in connection with the 9/11 attacks, is offering to plead guilty for a second time.
The unnamed source said if US District Judge Leonie Brinkema finds Moussaoui competent to make the decision, he could enter the plea before the end of the month.
Moussaoui offered to plead guilty early in the case, but Judge Brinkema asked him to reconsider his decision. Within a week, he changed his mind.
The Post also reported that Judge Brinkema planned to meet with Moussaoui this week to determine whether he has the mental capacity to make the plea.
Source: Moussaoui Offers to Plead Guilty - Yahoo! News
--
The Supreme Court agreed Monday to consider whether a New Mexico church can use a hallucinogenic tea in its services.
At issue is whether the tea which contains an illegal drug is protected under freedom of religion laws. The Bush administration argues that the drug is illegal and potentially dangerous to churchgoers.
The justices will review a lower court ruling in favor of the church.
Oral arguments will be heard when the court begins its next term in October.
Supreme Court to Hear Religious Tea Case - Yahoo! News
--
California prosecutors may face more questioning from judges when they try to remove minorities from juries.
At issue is a 19-year old rule that forbids using race as a reason to keep people off a jury.
Most state tell judges to question prosecutors when there appears to be racial bias in the selection of juries. California courts say that prosecutors should be questioned only when there is a "strong likelihood" of racial bias.
In arguments before the court, an attorney representing a child murderer told the court that California's rule allows racial bias to go unquestioned and unchallenged.
"Here, the prosecutor struck all three black jurors and left a black defendant to be tried by a nearly all-white jury," lawyer Stephen B. Bedrick said.
Bedrick urged the court to rule that whenever there was "a reasonable inference of discrimination," the prosecutor should explain his reason for excluding a minority juror.
Most of the justices were inclined to rule that way.
Justice Antonin Scalia wondered, "What's the big deal." A prosecutor could simply be called to the bench and explain the reason for dismissing the juror.
The court will likely rely on a 1986 case, Batson vs. Kentucky, that judges should challenge prosecutors to explain themselves whenever there was prima facie evidence of racial bias in the selection of a jury.
Justice Anthony Kennedy noted that under Batson all that is required is a "reason to inquire" not a "strong likelihood" of bias required in California.
The Court should deliver a decision in June. The case is Johnson v. California.
Justices Weigh State's Jury Selection Law - Yahoo! News
--
More tomorrow.
April 19, 1995 was a clear and pleasant spring day in Oklahoma City until 9:02 AM. At that precise moment the calm and innocence of the city was shattered by a truck bomb placed in from of the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building.
The bomb destroyed the building killing 168 men, women, and children and affected the life of thousands in Oklahoma City and around the country. It was a terrorist attack, but these terrorists were not from a foreign country. These terrorists were Americans. Americans who, for some reason, did not like the federal government and this was their response.
Tim McVeigh and Terry Nichols were the leaders. McVeigh was convicted and sentenced to death. He was executed in June 2001.
Terry Nichols was convicted in both federal and state courts and is serving multiple life sentences without the possibility of parole.
Today marks the 10th anniversary of the nation's worst act of domestic terrorism. In the church that served as a temporary morgue, 1600 people gathered to remember the victims, as well as, the survivors. Former President Bill Clinton and Vice President Dick Cheney spoke at the memorial service.
Across the street from the church is the Oklahoma,a City Memorial Park which features 168 chairs for the victims including 19 small chairs to memorialize the children killed in the incident.
Silence Recalls Oklahoma City Victims - Yahoo! News
--
The Washington Post reported in a story today that Zacarias Moussaoui, the only person charged in connection with the 9/11 attacks, is offering to plead guilty for a second time.
The unnamed source said if US District Judge Leonie Brinkema finds Moussaoui competent to make the decision, he could enter the plea before the end of the month.
Moussaoui offered to plead guilty early in the case, but Judge Brinkema asked him to reconsider his decision. Within a week, he changed his mind.
The Post also reported that Judge Brinkema planned to meet with Moussaoui this week to determine whether he has the mental capacity to make the plea.
Source: Moussaoui Offers to Plead Guilty - Yahoo! News
--
The Supreme Court agreed Monday to consider whether a New Mexico church can use a hallucinogenic tea in its services.
At issue is whether the tea which contains an illegal drug is protected under freedom of religion laws. The Bush administration argues that the drug is illegal and potentially dangerous to churchgoers.
The justices will review a lower court ruling in favor of the church.
Oral arguments will be heard when the court begins its next term in October.
Supreme Court to Hear Religious Tea Case - Yahoo! News
--
California prosecutors may face more questioning from judges when they try to remove minorities from juries.
At issue is a 19-year old rule that forbids using race as a reason to keep people off a jury.
Most state tell judges to question prosecutors when there appears to be racial bias in the selection of juries. California courts say that prosecutors should be questioned only when there is a "strong likelihood" of racial bias.
In arguments before the court, an attorney representing a child murderer told the court that California's rule allows racial bias to go unquestioned and unchallenged.
"Here, the prosecutor struck all three black jurors and left a black defendant to be tried by a nearly all-white jury," lawyer Stephen B. Bedrick said.
Bedrick urged the court to rule that whenever there was "a reasonable inference of discrimination," the prosecutor should explain his reason for excluding a minority juror.
Most of the justices were inclined to rule that way.
Justice Antonin Scalia wondered, "What's the big deal." A prosecutor could simply be called to the bench and explain the reason for dismissing the juror.
The court will likely rely on a 1986 case, Batson vs. Kentucky, that judges should challenge prosecutors to explain themselves whenever there was prima facie evidence of racial bias in the selection of a jury.
Justice Anthony Kennedy noted that under Batson all that is required is a "reason to inquire" not a "strong likelihood" of bias required in California.
The Court should deliver a decision in June. The case is Johnson v. California.
Justices Weigh State's Jury Selection Law - Yahoo! News
--
More tomorrow.
Habemus Papem!
The College of Cardinals have elected a new Pope.
He is Joseph Cardinal Ratzinger, a German, who has worked in the Vatican for many years. He has chosen to be called Pope Benedict XVI.
Ratzinger has been described as a conservative who will strictly follow the teachings of the Church.
In recent days the US media, especially NBC and CNN, have criticized Ratzinger as "too conservative" for American Catholics. "Today's" Katie Couric described Ratzinger as "God's rotweiller." This an other comments made by US media sources demonstrate a lack of understanding and knowledge of the Church. The liberal media believes the Church should be a democracy. It is not and it never will be.
Now, it is time to look forward as Pope Benedict XVI moves the Church forward. It is unlikely that many of the changes urged by US Catholics will become part of the teaching and theology of the Church. As noted in this space, the only change likely to happen will be the ordination of women and married men.
At 78, Pope Bendict XVI may be considered by many as a transitional pontiff.
Here is a biography of the new Pope. Joseph Cardinal Ratzinger Biography
More as the story develops.
He is Joseph Cardinal Ratzinger, a German, who has worked in the Vatican for many years. He has chosen to be called Pope Benedict XVI.
Ratzinger has been described as a conservative who will strictly follow the teachings of the Church.
In recent days the US media, especially NBC and CNN, have criticized Ratzinger as "too conservative" for American Catholics. "Today's" Katie Couric described Ratzinger as "God's rotweiller." This an other comments made by US media sources demonstrate a lack of understanding and knowledge of the Church. The liberal media believes the Church should be a democracy. It is not and it never will be.
Now, it is time to look forward as Pope Benedict XVI moves the Church forward. It is unlikely that many of the changes urged by US Catholics will become part of the teaching and theology of the Church. As noted in this space, the only change likely to happen will be the ordination of women and married men.
At 78, Pope Bendict XVI may be considered by many as a transitional pontiff.
Here is a biography of the new Pope. Joseph Cardinal Ratzinger Biography
More as the story develops.
Tuesday Briefing - 4.19.05 - More Delays for Bolton
Good morning . . .
Democrats on the Senate Foreign Relations Committee are seeking another delay on voting for the nomination of John Bolton for UN Ambassador.
Sen. Joe Biden (D-DE) is asking the committee to delay the vote further while he and other Democrats investigate allegations against Bolton for possibly abusing subordinates that do not agree with him.
In addition to the request by Biden, Sen. Lincoln Chaffe (R-RI) and Chuck Hagel (R-NE) have expressed some reluctance to vote for Bolton.
Committee Chairman Richard Lugar (R-IN) wants the committee to vote on the nomination and send it to the Senate floor.
The allegations suggested by Democrats merely show Bolton as a "bad" boss. There are many bad bosses in Washington and the entire country. These allegations alone are not enough to deny Bolton the nomination. It is just another example of Democrat obstruction of administration nominations.
GOP Senator's Comments Add Suspense to Bolton Vote -- 04/19/2005
--
Senate Minority Leader Harry Reid (D-NV) has threatened to shut down the Senate when the Republicans exercise the "nuclear option" for judicial nominees.
Reid said in a letter to Majority Leader Bill Frist (R-TN) that Democrats would find it "necessary" to filibuster every bill except for emergency legislation and bills for military spending. Reid's insistence on blocking most bills could cause a government shutdown similar to those caused by Demoicrats during the Clinton administration. This time, however, the Bush Administration will not give into Democrat "blackmail."
In a letter to Reid from Sen. Mitch McConnell (R-KY)says he is "greatly concerned" about Democrats' threats to shut down Senate business.
"A government shut down would be rash and unwise, and the American people deserve better from us than such an act, which is surely inconsistent with 'working together,'" McConnell wrote in the letter, dated April 18.
This letter like other attempts to compromise will fall upon deaf Democrat ears.
'Dear Harry, Don't Shut Down Senate Business' -- 04/19/2005
--
A top Republic in the House of Representatives has announced his retirement.
Henry Hyde (R-IL) announced he will not seek re-election and will retire at the end of his term in 2006.
The Illinois Congressman is best known for his leadership during the impeachment proceedings against President Clinton. While Clinton was impeached, he was not removed from office due to a weak Senate.
Hyde was first elected in 1974 from a district in the northwest suburbs of Chicago. His district included O'Hare International Airport.
He became known on the national scene in 1976 when he sponsored a measure to prohibit federal funding of abortions. The US Supreme Court found the "Hyde Amendment" constitutional in 1980 and it has become the blueprint for restrictions on tax dollars paid for abortions.
Hyde is 81.
U.S. Rep. Henry Hyde to Retire in 2006 - Yahoo! News
--
More later.
Democrats on the Senate Foreign Relations Committee are seeking another delay on voting for the nomination of John Bolton for UN Ambassador.
Sen. Joe Biden (D-DE) is asking the committee to delay the vote further while he and other Democrats investigate allegations against Bolton for possibly abusing subordinates that do not agree with him.
In addition to the request by Biden, Sen. Lincoln Chaffe (R-RI) and Chuck Hagel (R-NE) have expressed some reluctance to vote for Bolton.
Committee Chairman Richard Lugar (R-IN) wants the committee to vote on the nomination and send it to the Senate floor.
The allegations suggested by Democrats merely show Bolton as a "bad" boss. There are many bad bosses in Washington and the entire country. These allegations alone are not enough to deny Bolton the nomination. It is just another example of Democrat obstruction of administration nominations.
GOP Senator's Comments Add Suspense to Bolton Vote -- 04/19/2005
--
Senate Minority Leader Harry Reid (D-NV) has threatened to shut down the Senate when the Republicans exercise the "nuclear option" for judicial nominees.
Reid said in a letter to Majority Leader Bill Frist (R-TN) that Democrats would find it "necessary" to filibuster every bill except for emergency legislation and bills for military spending. Reid's insistence on blocking most bills could cause a government shutdown similar to those caused by Demoicrats during the Clinton administration. This time, however, the Bush Administration will not give into Democrat "blackmail."
In a letter to Reid from Sen. Mitch McConnell (R-KY)says he is "greatly concerned" about Democrats' threats to shut down Senate business.
"A government shut down would be rash and unwise, and the American people deserve better from us than such an act, which is surely inconsistent with 'working together,'" McConnell wrote in the letter, dated April 18.
This letter like other attempts to compromise will fall upon deaf Democrat ears.
'Dear Harry, Don't Shut Down Senate Business' -- 04/19/2005
--
A top Republic in the House of Representatives has announced his retirement.
Henry Hyde (R-IL) announced he will not seek re-election and will retire at the end of his term in 2006.
The Illinois Congressman is best known for his leadership during the impeachment proceedings against President Clinton. While Clinton was impeached, he was not removed from office due to a weak Senate.
Hyde was first elected in 1974 from a district in the northwest suburbs of Chicago. His district included O'Hare International Airport.
He became known on the national scene in 1976 when he sponsored a measure to prohibit federal funding of abortions. The US Supreme Court found the "Hyde Amendment" constitutional in 1980 and it has become the blueprint for restrictions on tax dollars paid for abortions.
Hyde is 81.
U.S. Rep. Henry Hyde to Retire in 2006 - Yahoo! News
--
More later.
Monday, April 18, 2005
Monday Briefing - 4.18.05 - Howard Dean Keeps on Talking
Good afternoon . .
I hope you enjoyed the special postings this morning. While the news is full of the activities surrounding the Conclave in Vatican City, the heroic exploits of Doolittle's Raiders seemed to be lost. Let's not forget those heroes of older wars that helped to keep our country free.
Now here are some other interesting stories.
--
Howard Dean Chairman of the Democratic National Committee is at it again. During his unsuccessful campaign to become the Democrats nominee, he was known for saying, sometimes screaming, things that came back to hurt him.
Now the things he says will come back to hurt Democrats.
Dean was answering questions at an Access Now meeting Friday when the Terri Schiavo case came up in a questions. Dean has already criticized congressional Republicans for their role in the ineffective and inappropriate legislation designed to have a feeding tube reinserted into Schiavo.
Forgetting that many Democrats voted for the legislation, Dean said that the Democrats would "use" Terri in the 2006 and 2008 elections.
I have no doubt Democrats will "use" a dead woman to further their political ends. I have no doubt Democrats will "use" anyone or anything to promote their agenda.
Unfortunately for Dean, there are plenty of voters who will see through the hypocrisy of the Democrats. This strategy like many Democrat plans will fail. The margin in the Congress will increase, the number of Republican governors will increase, and the Republicans will keep the White House even if Hillary Clinton runs.
Dean: Schiavo Case to Be Used Against GOP - Yahoo! News
--
The Supreme Court announced today that it will consider whether one occupant may give police permission to search when another occupant of the same residence is against it.
A Georgia man was charged with cocaine possession after he refused to give police permission to search his resident. His wife who called police because of a domestic dispute gave officers permission to search.
The husband's attorneys claim the search was illegal under the Fourth Amendment's right protecting against unreasonable search and seizure.
The trial court upheld the search, but the Georgia Supreme Court ruled that when two people have equal use and control of a premises, one occupant's consent is not valid when the other objects.
The Supreme Court will hear the case in its new term that begins in October.
The justices will also hear arguments in a Maryland case involving a murder suspect whose rights to an attorney were found to be violated.
The suspect originally refused to answer questions and asked for an attorney. Questioning ceased, but later a police officer showed the suspect a charging slip in which the death penalty was list. According to accounts of the questioning, the detective said, "I'll bet you want to talk now, hug?"
A short time later the suspect asked to talk with police and waived his rights to an attorney.
A Maryland appeals court ruled that the comments made by the detective showing the suspect the charging slip amounted to interrogation in violation of the suspect's rights.
Supreme Court to Decide Police Search Case - Yahoo! News
--
In case you missed it, convicted felon Martha Stewart asked a New York judge to reduce her sentence.
The request was made to Judge Miriam Goldman Cedarbaum to relax her sentence and remove the electronic device from her ankle. Stewart's attorney argued that the commute to New York plus Stewart's desire to resume her career were hindered by the sentence. Plus Ms Stewart could not dress accordingly with the device or her ankle. Under her "house arrest" agreement, Stewart is able to leave her home to work 48 hours each week. Stewart requested she be allowed out 80 hours each week.
Judge Cedarbaum denied the request saying Stewart's sentence was fair and lenient. Under federal guidelines, Stewart's sentence was the lightest possible.
Judge denies Martha Stewart sentence cut
In other Martha Stewart news, the convicted felon signed a deal for a channel on Sirius Satellite Radio. No terms have been announced, but Stewart will have a 24 hour a day channel to give household tips to her fans.
Stewart joins the likes of Howard Stern as "stars" of the fledgling satellite network.
Sirius Satellite, Martha Stewart Plan Announcement - Yahoo! News
--
More later.
I hope you enjoyed the special postings this morning. While the news is full of the activities surrounding the Conclave in Vatican City, the heroic exploits of Doolittle's Raiders seemed to be lost. Let's not forget those heroes of older wars that helped to keep our country free.
Now here are some other interesting stories.
--
Howard Dean Chairman of the Democratic National Committee is at it again. During his unsuccessful campaign to become the Democrats nominee, he was known for saying, sometimes screaming, things that came back to hurt him.
Now the things he says will come back to hurt Democrats.
Dean was answering questions at an Access Now meeting Friday when the Terri Schiavo case came up in a questions. Dean has already criticized congressional Republicans for their role in the ineffective and inappropriate legislation designed to have a feeding tube reinserted into Schiavo.
Forgetting that many Democrats voted for the legislation, Dean said that the Democrats would "use" Terri in the 2006 and 2008 elections.
I have no doubt Democrats will "use" a dead woman to further their political ends. I have no doubt Democrats will "use" anyone or anything to promote their agenda.
Unfortunately for Dean, there are plenty of voters who will see through the hypocrisy of the Democrats. This strategy like many Democrat plans will fail. The margin in the Congress will increase, the number of Republican governors will increase, and the Republicans will keep the White House even if Hillary Clinton runs.
Dean: Schiavo Case to Be Used Against GOP - Yahoo! News
--
The Supreme Court announced today that it will consider whether one occupant may give police permission to search when another occupant of the same residence is against it.
A Georgia man was charged with cocaine possession after he refused to give police permission to search his resident. His wife who called police because of a domestic dispute gave officers permission to search.
The husband's attorneys claim the search was illegal under the Fourth Amendment's right protecting against unreasonable search and seizure.
The trial court upheld the search, but the Georgia Supreme Court ruled that when two people have equal use and control of a premises, one occupant's consent is not valid when the other objects.
The Supreme Court will hear the case in its new term that begins in October.
The justices will also hear arguments in a Maryland case involving a murder suspect whose rights to an attorney were found to be violated.
The suspect originally refused to answer questions and asked for an attorney. Questioning ceased, but later a police officer showed the suspect a charging slip in which the death penalty was list. According to accounts of the questioning, the detective said, "I'll bet you want to talk now, hug?"
A short time later the suspect asked to talk with police and waived his rights to an attorney.
A Maryland appeals court ruled that the comments made by the detective showing the suspect the charging slip amounted to interrogation in violation of the suspect's rights.
Supreme Court to Decide Police Search Case - Yahoo! News
--
In case you missed it, convicted felon Martha Stewart asked a New York judge to reduce her sentence.
The request was made to Judge Miriam Goldman Cedarbaum to relax her sentence and remove the electronic device from her ankle. Stewart's attorney argued that the commute to New York plus Stewart's desire to resume her career were hindered by the sentence. Plus Ms Stewart could not dress accordingly with the device or her ankle. Under her "house arrest" agreement, Stewart is able to leave her home to work 48 hours each week. Stewart requested she be allowed out 80 hours each week.
Judge Cedarbaum denied the request saying Stewart's sentence was fair and lenient. Under federal guidelines, Stewart's sentence was the lightest possible.
Judge denies Martha Stewart sentence cut
In other Martha Stewart news, the convicted felon signed a deal for a channel on Sirius Satellite Radio. No terms have been announced, but Stewart will have a 24 hour a day channel to give household tips to her fans.
Stewart joins the likes of Howard Stern as "stars" of the fledgling satellite network.
Sirius Satellite, Martha Stewart Plan Announcement - Yahoo! News
--
More later.
Conclave Begins - A Check This Out Special Report
The College of Cardinals meets today in Conclave to select the next Pope. The Conclave is a mysterious and secret meeting that can be full of intrigue.
The 115 Princes of the Church imposed a media blackout before the Conclave began to avoid any speculation on favorites. The Sistine Chapel has been sealed off from the world and the Cardinals will be sequestered in a hotel within the Vatican grounds. The Sistine Chapel, where the meetings take place, has been outfitted with electronic devices that can block cell phones and other devices.
Leading the Conclave will be the Dean of the College of Cardinals, Joseph Cardinal Ratzinger. Cardinal Ratzinger, a German, is a leading "contender" for the papacy.
Under the rules implemented by Pope John Paul II, only Cardinals under the age of 80 will be eligible to vote. Each day in Conclave there will be two votes in the morning and two votes in the afternoon. A two-thirds majority is needed for election. Following each round of voting the ballots will be mixed with chemicals and burned. If no Pope is elected, the ballots will burn with a black smoke.
If a Pope is not selected after 3 days, the cardinals will take a day off for prayer and reflection. When they reconvene, Cardinal Ratzinger may address the Conclave and "encourage" the cardinals to look for a "compromise" candidate.
If, after 15 days, a Pope has not been elected, a simple majority is all that is necessary for election. If the Conclave goes that long, a compromise candidate is surely to become Pope.
Following election, the Senior Deacon of the College of Cardinals, Jorge Cardinal Medina Estevez will announce to the world, Annuntio vobis gaudium magnum! Habemus Papam! ("I announce to you a great joy! We have a Pope!").
One of the major questions for this Conclave is "Where do we go for our new Pope?" Speculation is that the new Pope will be a conservative much like John Paul II. Others close to the College of Cardinals speculate that a liberal candidate may emerge.
Many US Catholics are seeking a Pope that will allow changes in the priesthood. These changes include ordaining women and married men into the priesthood. If allowed, it would help the growing shortage of priests in the United States.
No matter who becomes Pope, it is unlikely that he will make any changes in the church's teachings and dogma on abortion, homosexuality, and the death penalty.
Until the College of Cardinals elects a new Pope, any thoughts of change for the Church and it 1.1 billion members is strictly speculation.
The 115 Princes of the Church imposed a media blackout before the Conclave began to avoid any speculation on favorites. The Sistine Chapel has been sealed off from the world and the Cardinals will be sequestered in a hotel within the Vatican grounds. The Sistine Chapel, where the meetings take place, has been outfitted with electronic devices that can block cell phones and other devices.
Leading the Conclave will be the Dean of the College of Cardinals, Joseph Cardinal Ratzinger. Cardinal Ratzinger, a German, is a leading "contender" for the papacy.
Under the rules implemented by Pope John Paul II, only Cardinals under the age of 80 will be eligible to vote. Each day in Conclave there will be two votes in the morning and two votes in the afternoon. A two-thirds majority is needed for election. Following each round of voting the ballots will be mixed with chemicals and burned. If no Pope is elected, the ballots will burn with a black smoke.
If a Pope is not selected after 3 days, the cardinals will take a day off for prayer and reflection. When they reconvene, Cardinal Ratzinger may address the Conclave and "encourage" the cardinals to look for a "compromise" candidate.
If, after 15 days, a Pope has not been elected, a simple majority is all that is necessary for election. If the Conclave goes that long, a compromise candidate is surely to become Pope.
Following election, the Senior Deacon of the College of Cardinals, Jorge Cardinal Medina Estevez will announce to the world, Annuntio vobis gaudium magnum! Habemus Papam! ("I announce to you a great joy! We have a Pope!").
One of the major questions for this Conclave is "Where do we go for our new Pope?" Speculation is that the new Pope will be a conservative much like John Paul II. Others close to the College of Cardinals speculate that a liberal candidate may emerge.
Many US Catholics are seeking a Pope that will allow changes in the priesthood. These changes include ordaining women and married men into the priesthood. If allowed, it would help the growing shortage of priests in the United States.
No matter who becomes Pope, it is unlikely that he will make any changes in the church's teachings and dogma on abortion, homosexuality, and the death penalty.
Until the College of Cardinals elects a new Pope, any thoughts of change for the Church and it 1.1 billion members is strictly speculation.
Remembering the Doolittle Raid - A Check This Out Extra
On April 187, 1942, 80 men and 16 planes embarked on one of the most daring raids in World War II.
Under the command of Col. James H. "Jimmy" Doolittle 16 B-25 bombers took off from the USS Hornet to bomb Tokyo and four other cities in Japan. It was the first time that land-based bombers took of from an aircraft carrier. The B-25 was a two engine bomber with a range of 2000 miles.
Following months of training in Florida, the crews and planes flew to California and loaded onto the USS Hornet. It was then that the 80 men knew their destination. It was a little surprising the Hornet and its escort left California during daylight. In the early part of the war, every person of Japanese ancestry was suspected on spying.
The mission was to sail to within 650 miles of the Japanese mainland, take off, and bomb five Japanese cities including Tokyo. After bombing the cities the planes were to fly to friendly airfields in China. It was not known if the planes with the extra fuel and bombs could make the flight.
On the morning of April 18, a small Japanese scout vessel spotted the task force. Although it was sunk by American warships, it was no known if the enemy vessel had time to radio the position of the task force. Col. Doolittle and Adm. "Bull" Halsey made a decision to launch the raid immediately. They were 650 miles from Japan. It seemed more like a suicide mission.
All 16 planes were able to takeoff from the Hornet during high winds and high seas.
The raid over the Japanese cities was a surprise and a success. What happened afterwards is the stuff that legends and movies are made of.
A freak storm helped the bombers reach land. Several ships crashed near the China coast and one ship landed safely in eastern Russia. The crew of that plane were interned in a Russian camp, but escaped.
Chinese civilians helped other crews to hide from Japanese soldiers and most of the crews were reunited in China. Eight of the raiders were captured by the Japanese.
The POWs were tried, convicted, and sentenced to death. Four of the captured raiders were executed by their captors. One crew member died in a Japanese camp of disease. The remaining three were liberated by US forces in 1944.
Col. Doolittle, later promoted to general, received the Medal of Honor from President Roosevelt. The other raiders received the Distinguished Flying Cross, the second highest honor for the Air Forces. Other raiders received Silver Stars and other honors for gallantry and bravery.
Pilot Ted Lawson whose leg was amputated shortly after bailing out write the Book Thirty Seconds Over Tokyo which later became a movie.
Each year the surviving members of the raid hold a reunion to honor themselves and their fallen comrades. This year's reunion was held April 15-17, 2005.
The Doolittle Raid was one of the most successful and dramatic events of World War II. It helped to raise morale throughout the country after the devastating attack at Pearl Harbor.
The raid and the subsequent Japanese loss at Midway Island were turning pints that led to the eventual defeat of the Japanese. It is a day and event that should be remembered by all Americans.
For more on the Doolittle Raid, click here.
Under the command of Col. James H. "Jimmy" Doolittle 16 B-25 bombers took off from the USS Hornet to bomb Tokyo and four other cities in Japan. It was the first time that land-based bombers took of from an aircraft carrier. The B-25 was a two engine bomber with a range of 2000 miles.
Following months of training in Florida, the crews and planes flew to California and loaded onto the USS Hornet. It was then that the 80 men knew their destination. It was a little surprising the Hornet and its escort left California during daylight. In the early part of the war, every person of Japanese ancestry was suspected on spying.
The mission was to sail to within 650 miles of the Japanese mainland, take off, and bomb five Japanese cities including Tokyo. After bombing the cities the planes were to fly to friendly airfields in China. It was not known if the planes with the extra fuel and bombs could make the flight.
On the morning of April 18, a small Japanese scout vessel spotted the task force. Although it was sunk by American warships, it was no known if the enemy vessel had time to radio the position of the task force. Col. Doolittle and Adm. "Bull" Halsey made a decision to launch the raid immediately. They were 650 miles from Japan. It seemed more like a suicide mission.
All 16 planes were able to takeoff from the Hornet during high winds and high seas.
The raid over the Japanese cities was a surprise and a success. What happened afterwards is the stuff that legends and movies are made of.
A freak storm helped the bombers reach land. Several ships crashed near the China coast and one ship landed safely in eastern Russia. The crew of that plane were interned in a Russian camp, but escaped.
Chinese civilians helped other crews to hide from Japanese soldiers and most of the crews were reunited in China. Eight of the raiders were captured by the Japanese.
The POWs were tried, convicted, and sentenced to death. Four of the captured raiders were executed by their captors. One crew member died in a Japanese camp of disease. The remaining three were liberated by US forces in 1944.
Col. Doolittle, later promoted to general, received the Medal of Honor from President Roosevelt. The other raiders received the Distinguished Flying Cross, the second highest honor for the Air Forces. Other raiders received Silver Stars and other honors for gallantry and bravery.
Pilot Ted Lawson whose leg was amputated shortly after bailing out write the Book Thirty Seconds Over Tokyo which later became a movie.
Each year the surviving members of the raid hold a reunion to honor themselves and their fallen comrades. This year's reunion was held April 15-17, 2005.
The Doolittle Raid was one of the most successful and dramatic events of World War II. It helped to raise morale throughout the country after the devastating attack at Pearl Harbor.
The raid and the subsequent Japanese loss at Midway Island were turning pints that led to the eventual defeat of the Japanese. It is a day and event that should be remembered by all Americans.
For more on the Doolittle Raid, click here.
Saturday, April 16, 2005
Ceremony Marks End of Papacy - A Check This Out Weekend Special - 4.16.05
Ceremonies at the Vatican Saturday brought to a close the nine days of official mourning for Pope John Paul II.
The entire College of Cardinals attended the ancient rite where the ring and lead seal of John Paul II were destroyed. The ceremony was followed by a Mass in St. Peter's Basilica.
This was the last meeting of the cardinals until they meet Monday to begin the Conclave to elect the next Pope.
The 115 voting eligible cardinals have been sworn to secrecy as have others working in and around the Sistine Chapel.
The Vatican has installed electronic device that will block cell phone and other electronic means of communication.
The main courtyard near the chapel has been sealed and tourists have been restricted from parts of the Vatican.
Ceremony Marks End of Pope John Paul II�s 26-year Reign - April 16, 2005
The entire College of Cardinals attended the ancient rite where the ring and lead seal of John Paul II were destroyed. The ceremony was followed by a Mass in St. Peter's Basilica.
This was the last meeting of the cardinals until they meet Monday to begin the Conclave to elect the next Pope.
The 115 voting eligible cardinals have been sworn to secrecy as have others working in and around the Sistine Chapel.
The Vatican has installed electronic device that will block cell phone and other electronic means of communication.
The main courtyard near the chapel has been sealed and tourists have been restricted from parts of the Vatican.
Ceremony Marks End of Pope John Paul II�s 26-year Reign - April 16, 2005
Friday, April 15, 2005
Friday Update - 4.15.05 - Judge Threatens to Close Court
Good afternoon . . .
Santa Maria Superior Court Judge Rodney Melville threatened to close the court if the "combat" between Michael Jackson's lead attorney, Tom Mesereau and the mother of Jackson's accuser.
Throughout the cross examination by Mesereau, the mother often sparred with him and,m at times, directly addressed the jury. At one point she turned to the jury and said, "Two years I've been waiting for this."
Mesereau continued to press the mother on who wrote the "script" she alleges her family was forced to recite on a video praising the aging pop-star. The witness said Mesereau would have to ask Jackson's associates and invited Michael to come to the stand and tell the jury.
This case is getting so bizarre, you do not know who to believe. The bulk of the evidence does show a pattern of child abuse and molestation. If the jury believes even a small portion of it, Jackson will be convicted.
CNN.com - Jackson judge threatens to close court - Apr 15, 2005
--
Senate Minority Leader Harry Reid (D-NV) has decided that a double standard is the right way to criticize Senate Republicans.
Reid said that Majority Leader Bill Frist (D-TN) should cancel a videotaped speech to a group that claims the obstructionists for Bush judicial nominees is based on religious grounds. Reid calls it "radical Republican" politics.
Reid was among the Democrat senators who failed to criticize failed presidential candidate John Kerry for campaigning against President Bush at a Baptist church.
Frist spokesperson, Bob Stevenson accused the Democrat leader of a "double standard" saying, "Now, as they prepare to continue their unprecedented filibuster against the president's judicial nominations, they criticize the leader for agreeing to deliver a similar address pressing for fair treatment of the president's judicial nominees."
Reid and Sen Dick Durbin (D-IL) held a press conference to urge Frist to cancel the speech and to openly criticize his leadership. It is unusual for senators to openly criticize one another in public. This demonstrates the deep-seeded partisanship that pervades the Senate.
Senate observers say that Frist will utilize the so-called "nuclear option" to limit filibusters for judicial nominees. While not every Republican will vote for the rule change, Frist has enough senators plus the vice-president to guarantee the rule change.
Reid Calls Frist's GOP Politics 'Radical' - Yahoo! News
--
Monday the College of Cardinals meet in Conclave to elect the next Pope. 117 Cardinals are eligible to vote for the new Pope. The Conclave is an ancient rite of the Church in which Cardinals have traditionally been sequestered in the Sistine Chapel until one of their number is elected Pope.
Under new rules instituted by John Paul II, Cardinals will have the ability to move throughout the Vatican during the meetings. They will stay in a hotel/conference center built for this purpose, but will hold their secret meetings in the Sistine Chapel.
Shortly after John Paul's funeral, the College of Cardinals voted to not speak to the press or accept media invitations until after the Conclave ends.
The Conclave begins Monday.
--
Unless events warrant, the next Check This Out Briefing will be Monday. Have a great weekend.
Santa Maria Superior Court Judge Rodney Melville threatened to close the court if the "combat" between Michael Jackson's lead attorney, Tom Mesereau and the mother of Jackson's accuser.
Throughout the cross examination by Mesereau, the mother often sparred with him and,m at times, directly addressed the jury. At one point she turned to the jury and said, "Two years I've been waiting for this."
Mesereau continued to press the mother on who wrote the "script" she alleges her family was forced to recite on a video praising the aging pop-star. The witness said Mesereau would have to ask Jackson's associates and invited Michael to come to the stand and tell the jury.
This case is getting so bizarre, you do not know who to believe. The bulk of the evidence does show a pattern of child abuse and molestation. If the jury believes even a small portion of it, Jackson will be convicted.
CNN.com - Jackson judge threatens to close court - Apr 15, 2005
--
Senate Minority Leader Harry Reid (D-NV) has decided that a double standard is the right way to criticize Senate Republicans.
Reid said that Majority Leader Bill Frist (D-TN) should cancel a videotaped speech to a group that claims the obstructionists for Bush judicial nominees is based on religious grounds. Reid calls it "radical Republican" politics.
Reid was among the Democrat senators who failed to criticize failed presidential candidate John Kerry for campaigning against President Bush at a Baptist church.
Frist spokesperson, Bob Stevenson accused the Democrat leader of a "double standard" saying, "Now, as they prepare to continue their unprecedented filibuster against the president's judicial nominations, they criticize the leader for agreeing to deliver a similar address pressing for fair treatment of the president's judicial nominees."
Reid and Sen Dick Durbin (D-IL) held a press conference to urge Frist to cancel the speech and to openly criticize his leadership. It is unusual for senators to openly criticize one another in public. This demonstrates the deep-seeded partisanship that pervades the Senate.
Senate observers say that Frist will utilize the so-called "nuclear option" to limit filibusters for judicial nominees. While not every Republican will vote for the rule change, Frist has enough senators plus the vice-president to guarantee the rule change.
Reid Calls Frist's GOP Politics 'Radical' - Yahoo! News
--
Monday the College of Cardinals meet in Conclave to elect the next Pope. 117 Cardinals are eligible to vote for the new Pope. The Conclave is an ancient rite of the Church in which Cardinals have traditionally been sequestered in the Sistine Chapel until one of their number is elected Pope.
Under new rules instituted by John Paul II, Cardinals will have the ability to move throughout the Vatican during the meetings. They will stay in a hotel/conference center built for this purpose, but will hold their secret meetings in the Sistine Chapel.
Shortly after John Paul's funeral, the College of Cardinals voted to not speak to the press or accept media invitations until after the Conclave ends.
The Conclave begins Monday.
--
Unless events warrant, the next Check This Out Briefing will be Monday. Have a great weekend.
Friday Briefing - 4.15.005
Good morning . . .
Here's a nutty idea. A Republican lawmaker wants to pass a "very simple bill" that would move tax filing day to the first Monday in November. That would make it the day before elections. This is a sure way to force most incumbents out of office. Let's see, pay my taxes on Monday, get rid of the people who tax me on Tuesday.
It is a simple plan, but not in the best interests of taxpayers or elected officials.
CNSNews.com -- News This Hour
--
There seems to be no end to the fight over the gubernatorial election in Washington state. Both Republicans and Democrats have made the peoples choice a game and windfall for political hacks and lawyers.
Democrat Christine Gregoire beat Republican Dino Rossi by 129 votes in a hand recount of more than 2.8 million ballots. This was after a third recount. In the first two, Dino Rossi won by 147 votes, but in heavily Democrat King County additional votes were "found" and another recount ordered. This put Gregorie in the governor's mansion.
Republicans have sued to throw the results of the election out and have a new election. They say that the irregularities and mishaps make it impossible to know who really won in November.
Both sides have filed briefs with Chelan County Superior Court Judge John Bridges. The Republicans say that over 1,000 felons voted in the election and under state law, felons cannot vote.
Democrats say that most of the 1,000 were convicted as juveniles or had their voting rights restored. The Democrats want the Republicans to "prove" that each felon was a felon on election day.
The Republicans may only need to prove that a majority of the felons voted illegally in order to cause another recount or get a new election.
A preliminary hearing is set for May 2 to decide what the Republicans must prove.
The trial is scheduled to begin on May 23 with the ultimate result to come from the state Supreme Court.
Court briefs filed over disputed governor's election
--
The FCC reminded broadcasters Wednesday that they must identify the source for government produced stories used in news programs. The FCC said that the decades old sponsor identification rules apply to material used in newscasts that are produced by another source even the federal government.
President Bush said that is was the responsibility of the broadcaster to properly identify the source of these materials.
Not to be left out, the Senate passed a measure Thursday that would ban the production and distribution of "video news releases" using taxpayer dollars. The Democrats call the "news" stories propaganda. Under the Clinton administration, Democrats called the video new releases "vital information" for taxpayers.
The measure sponsored by Sen. Robert Byrd (D-WV) was attached to the emergency spending bill for funding of troops in Afghanistan and Iraq.
Under it, taxpayer funds would be prohibited from being used for prepackaged news stories unless those stories contain "clear notification within the text or audio of the prepackaged news" that discloses it was prepared or funded by a federal agency.
Senate Votes to Ban Video News Releases - Yahoo! News
--
More later.
Here's a nutty idea. A Republican lawmaker wants to pass a "very simple bill" that would move tax filing day to the first Monday in November. That would make it the day before elections. This is a sure way to force most incumbents out of office. Let's see, pay my taxes on Monday, get rid of the people who tax me on Tuesday.
It is a simple plan, but not in the best interests of taxpayers or elected officials.
CNSNews.com -- News This Hour
--
There seems to be no end to the fight over the gubernatorial election in Washington state. Both Republicans and Democrats have made the peoples choice a game and windfall for political hacks and lawyers.
Democrat Christine Gregoire beat Republican Dino Rossi by 129 votes in a hand recount of more than 2.8 million ballots. This was after a third recount. In the first two, Dino Rossi won by 147 votes, but in heavily Democrat King County additional votes were "found" and another recount ordered. This put Gregorie in the governor's mansion.
Republicans have sued to throw the results of the election out and have a new election. They say that the irregularities and mishaps make it impossible to know who really won in November.
Both sides have filed briefs with Chelan County Superior Court Judge John Bridges. The Republicans say that over 1,000 felons voted in the election and under state law, felons cannot vote.
Democrats say that most of the 1,000 were convicted as juveniles or had their voting rights restored. The Democrats want the Republicans to "prove" that each felon was a felon on election day.
The Republicans may only need to prove that a majority of the felons voted illegally in order to cause another recount or get a new election.
A preliminary hearing is set for May 2 to decide what the Republicans must prove.
The trial is scheduled to begin on May 23 with the ultimate result to come from the state Supreme Court.
Court briefs filed over disputed governor's election
--
The FCC reminded broadcasters Wednesday that they must identify the source for government produced stories used in news programs. The FCC said that the decades old sponsor identification rules apply to material used in newscasts that are produced by another source even the federal government.
President Bush said that is was the responsibility of the broadcaster to properly identify the source of these materials.
Not to be left out, the Senate passed a measure Thursday that would ban the production and distribution of "video news releases" using taxpayer dollars. The Democrats call the "news" stories propaganda. Under the Clinton administration, Democrats called the video new releases "vital information" for taxpayers.
The measure sponsored by Sen. Robert Byrd (D-WV) was attached to the emergency spending bill for funding of troops in Afghanistan and Iraq.
Under it, taxpayer funds would be prohibited from being used for prepackaged news stories unless those stories contain "clear notification within the text or audio of the prepackaged news" that discloses it was prepared or funded by a federal agency.
Senate Votes to Ban Video News Releases - Yahoo! News
--
More later.
Thursday, April 14, 2005
Election Commission Dismisses Complaints - A Check This Out Extra
The Federal Election Commission dismissed three complaints Thursday involving Ralph Nader, the Swift Boat Veterans for Truth and the Democratic National Committee.
One alleging the interest group Citizen Works made illegal corporate contributions to Nader's presidential campaign by letting it use the group's office space for half the fair-market price.
One accusing Democratic presidential hopeful Kerry and the Democratic National Committee of illegally using their government election money to keep Nader off the ballot.
One that said the Swift Boat Veterans group was incorporated and that therefore its spending on election-time ads in the presidential race was illegal.
One alleging the interest group Citizen Works made illegal corporate contributions to Nader's presidential campaign by letting it use the group's office space for half the fair-market price.
One accusing Democratic presidential hopeful Kerry and the Democratic National Committee of illegally using their government election money to keep Nader off the ballot.
One that said the Swift Boat Veterans group was incorporated and that therefore its spending on election-time ads in the presidential race was illegal.
Thursday Update - 4.14.05 - FCC Warns Broadcasters
Good Afternoon . . .
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) reminded broadcasters Wednesday of rules requiring them to identify the source of government videos packaged as news stories.
The notice to broadcasters was a response to thousands of complaints to investigate broadcasters failure to disclose the source of government materials.
The rules "are grounded in the principle that listeners and viewers have the right to know who seeks to persuade them" with TV programming, the public notice said.
The FCC is seeking public comment on the decades-old sponsor identification rules and may seek to clarify them further.
The complaints arose after stations aired a series of videos from the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy and the HHS's Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. The videos touted programs from both departments. They were distributed to stations for use in news programs.
Several stations that aired the stories did not disclose the source of the program
Directly addressing such videos, the FCC said broadcast licensees and cable operators "generally must clearly disclose" to viewers the "nature, source and sponsorship of the material."
Violation of the rules could result in fines, imprisonment, or both.
FCC Warns Broadcasters About 'News' Videos - Yahoo! News
--
While Connecticut lawmakers consider legislation to support "civil unions," a court in Oregon has nullified 3,000 same-sex marriage licenses issued last year.
The Oregon Supreme Court ruled that Multnomah County could not go against state matrimonial law.
"Oregon law currently places the regulation of marriage exclusively within the province of the state's legislative power," the high court said in its unanimous ruling.
The court noted that Oregon voters approved an amendment to the state constitutional that prohibits same-sex marriages. The amendment coupled with existing state law defines marriage as one man and one woman. The court did not address the issue of civil unions.
Oregon Court Tosses Gay Marriage Licenses - Yahoo! News
--
A Delaware senator has vowed to block the president's nominee to head the Environmental Protection Agency.
Sen. Thomas Carper (D-DE) said he is going to place a "hold" on the nomination of Stephen Johnson.
Although Johnson was voted out of committee 17-1, the no vote being Carper's, the Delaware Senator is going to put a hold on the nomination to get "the right kind of legislation."
It is possible that Carper's hold and the Democrats action in the Foreign Relations Committee will trigger the so-called "nuclear option" in the Senate to change the rules on filibusters. Carper's action is a privledge accorded to all Senators, but is rarely used to "blackmail" Congress into creating legislation for a specific senator.
Dem. Senator to Block Vote on EPA Nominee - Yahoo! News
--
More later.
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) reminded broadcasters Wednesday of rules requiring them to identify the source of government videos packaged as news stories.
The notice to broadcasters was a response to thousands of complaints to investigate broadcasters failure to disclose the source of government materials.
The rules "are grounded in the principle that listeners and viewers have the right to know who seeks to persuade them" with TV programming, the public notice said.
The FCC is seeking public comment on the decades-old sponsor identification rules and may seek to clarify them further.
The complaints arose after stations aired a series of videos from the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy and the HHS's Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. The videos touted programs from both departments. They were distributed to stations for use in news programs.
Several stations that aired the stories did not disclose the source of the program
Directly addressing such videos, the FCC said broadcast licensees and cable operators "generally must clearly disclose" to viewers the "nature, source and sponsorship of the material."
Violation of the rules could result in fines, imprisonment, or both.
FCC Warns Broadcasters About 'News' Videos - Yahoo! News
--
While Connecticut lawmakers consider legislation to support "civil unions," a court in Oregon has nullified 3,000 same-sex marriage licenses issued last year.
The Oregon Supreme Court ruled that Multnomah County could not go against state matrimonial law.
"Oregon law currently places the regulation of marriage exclusively within the province of the state's legislative power," the high court said in its unanimous ruling.
The court noted that Oregon voters approved an amendment to the state constitutional that prohibits same-sex marriages. The amendment coupled with existing state law defines marriage as one man and one woman. The court did not address the issue of civil unions.
Oregon Court Tosses Gay Marriage Licenses - Yahoo! News
--
A Delaware senator has vowed to block the president's nominee to head the Environmental Protection Agency.
Sen. Thomas Carper (D-DE) said he is going to place a "hold" on the nomination of Stephen Johnson.
Although Johnson was voted out of committee 17-1, the no vote being Carper's, the Delaware Senator is going to put a hold on the nomination to get "the right kind of legislation."
It is possible that Carper's hold and the Democrats action in the Foreign Relations Committee will trigger the so-called "nuclear option" in the Senate to change the rules on filibusters. Carper's action is a privledge accorded to all Senators, but is rarely used to "blackmail" Congress into creating legislation for a specific senator.
Dem. Senator to Block Vote on EPA Nominee - Yahoo! News
--
More later.
Thursday Briefing - 4.14.05 - Oil-for-Food Indictments
Good morning . . .
Yesterday's excursion took longer than expected. So, there were no postings yesterday. I am back on schedule for the remainder of this week's media and political news and commentary.
--
Federal prosecutors have indicted a Texas businessman, along with a Bulgarian and British citizen in the scandals ridden UN oil for food program. The participants were charged with funneling millions, perhaps, billions, of dollars to Saddam Hussein.
David Chalmers and Ludmil Dionissiev were arrested today in their homes in Houston.
US Attorney David Kelly aid the third man, John Irving, is in England and the US will seek extradition to the United States.
The kickbacks to Saddam Hussein were funds intended for humanitarian relief, Kelly said in his statement.
If convicted, Chalmers, Irving, and Dionissiev could receive 62 years in prison and a $1 million fine. They may also have to make restitution of the over $100 million stolen from the program.
3 Indicted in U.N. Oil-For-Food Scandal - Yahoo! News
--
As expected the Senate Foreign Relations Committee delayed the vote until Tuesday on John Bolton' nomination for Ambassador to the United Nations.
Committee Democrats whined about Bolton's suitability for the post and Sen. Christopher Dodd (D-CT) wanted to hear testimony from three additional witnesses.
While there may be other witnesses to interview, the real reason for the delay is for Democrats to lobby Sen. Lincoln Chaffe (R-RI) to change his support. Chaffe has said that there must be an "extraordinary" reason not to confirm a nominee for an ambassador post. Since Democrats do not like Bolton's style, they say that is enough reason to deny the President his choice.
If Chaffe votes with the Democrats it would be a 9-9 tie. This would end the Bolton nomination unless the committee votes to send the nomination to the Senate floor with a recommendation.
Boston.com / News / World / Panel delays vote on Bolton
--
More later.
Yesterday's excursion took longer than expected. So, there were no postings yesterday. I am back on schedule for the remainder of this week's media and political news and commentary.
--
Federal prosecutors have indicted a Texas businessman, along with a Bulgarian and British citizen in the scandals ridden UN oil for food program. The participants were charged with funneling millions, perhaps, billions, of dollars to Saddam Hussein.
David Chalmers and Ludmil Dionissiev were arrested today in their homes in Houston.
US Attorney David Kelly aid the third man, John Irving, is in England and the US will seek extradition to the United States.
The kickbacks to Saddam Hussein were funds intended for humanitarian relief, Kelly said in his statement.
If convicted, Chalmers, Irving, and Dionissiev could receive 62 years in prison and a $1 million fine. They may also have to make restitution of the over $100 million stolen from the program.
3 Indicted in U.N. Oil-For-Food Scandal - Yahoo! News
--
As expected the Senate Foreign Relations Committee delayed the vote until Tuesday on John Bolton' nomination for Ambassador to the United Nations.
Committee Democrats whined about Bolton's suitability for the post and Sen. Christopher Dodd (D-CT) wanted to hear testimony from three additional witnesses.
While there may be other witnesses to interview, the real reason for the delay is for Democrats to lobby Sen. Lincoln Chaffe (R-RI) to change his support. Chaffe has said that there must be an "extraordinary" reason not to confirm a nominee for an ambassador post. Since Democrats do not like Bolton's style, they say that is enough reason to deny the President his choice.
If Chaffe votes with the Democrats it would be a 9-9 tie. This would end the Bolton nomination unless the committee votes to send the nomination to the Senate floor with a recommendation.
Boston.com / News / World / Panel delays vote on Bolton
--
More later.
Tuesday, April 12, 2005
Tuesday Update - 4.12.05 - Bolton Likely to be Confirmed
Good afternoon . .
I have not be avoiding the confirmation of John Bolton as the ambassador to the United Nations. It was another example of Democrats trying to block a Bush nominee.
John Bolton is a controversial figure known for his view on the UN. Views that are highly critical. With all the scandals in the UN, you would think that Democrats would want a critic and not a "lap dog."
The hearings show that Democrats want a "log dog" in foreign policy and will take any opportunity to bash President Bush.
Barring any Republican defections, Bolton's name is likely on its way to the Senate floor. It will be interesting to see if Senate Democrats use the filibuster to block this nomination. If they do, it will give credence to the adoption of a rule change to end filibusters with a majority vote.
It is interesting to see potential presidential nominees Biden, Boxer, and Kerry raising the loudest objections to the Bolton nomination. Sen. Barbara Boxer (D-CA) called Bolton a "bully."
Yahoo! News - Bolton Appears Headed for Confirmation
--
The Supreme Court has asked for additional funds to increase security. Justice Anthony Kennedy made the request in a two-hour appearance before the House Appropriations Committee today.
Kennedy along with Justice Clarence Thomas submitted a $60.7 million requested which included over $600,000 for 11 new police positions plus increased patrols around the court building. One officer would be assigned to investigate threats against the nine justices.
The request comes in the wake of the murder of a Chicago federal judge's husband and mother and the shootings in an Atlanta courtroom.
Justices Kennedy and Thomas were also asked questions about recent court decision and the health of Chief Justice William H. Rehnquist.
Yahoo! News - High Court Justices Seek Security Boost
--
This year high school juniors and seniors were introduced to a new and improved Scholastic Achievement Test (SAT). The SAT is one of the predictors of achievement in college.
In addition to the standard English and math sections, the new test requires a written essay. The change in questions and the addition of the essay were supposed to prevent perfect scores. The perfect score on the old SAT was 1600. The prefect score on the new SAT is 2400.
Sources are reporting that 107 students have achieved a perfect score. The College Board, which owns the SAT, confirms the number of perfect scores, but has not yet publicly released detailed information.
Yahoo! News - 107 Achieve New Perfect SAT Score: 2400
--
Lawmakers in Indiana have passed a law requiring voters to show a photo ID before casting a ballot. The new law, like to be signed by Gov. Mitch Daniels (R), is one of the most restrictive in the country.
Republicans said the measure will help prevent voter fraud and restore voter confidence without putting an undue burden on citizens.
Democrats said the measure will hurt poor, minorities, elderly, and disabled individuals who do not drive. The bill did not require a driver's license only a government issued photo ID. The driving argument falls flat. Democrats are concerned that the voters they want to protects vote for Democrats. No self-interest there.
Yahoo! News - Indiana Likely to Require ID at Polls
--
I will be out of town on Wednesday, April 13. If there is a Check This Out Briefing or Update, it will be posted after 5PM CDT.
I have not be avoiding the confirmation of John Bolton as the ambassador to the United Nations. It was another example of Democrats trying to block a Bush nominee.
John Bolton is a controversial figure known for his view on the UN. Views that are highly critical. With all the scandals in the UN, you would think that Democrats would want a critic and not a "lap dog."
The hearings show that Democrats want a "log dog" in foreign policy and will take any opportunity to bash President Bush.
Barring any Republican defections, Bolton's name is likely on its way to the Senate floor. It will be interesting to see if Senate Democrats use the filibuster to block this nomination. If they do, it will give credence to the adoption of a rule change to end filibusters with a majority vote.
It is interesting to see potential presidential nominees Biden, Boxer, and Kerry raising the loudest objections to the Bolton nomination. Sen. Barbara Boxer (D-CA) called Bolton a "bully."
Yahoo! News - Bolton Appears Headed for Confirmation
--
The Supreme Court has asked for additional funds to increase security. Justice Anthony Kennedy made the request in a two-hour appearance before the House Appropriations Committee today.
Kennedy along with Justice Clarence Thomas submitted a $60.7 million requested which included over $600,000 for 11 new police positions plus increased patrols around the court building. One officer would be assigned to investigate threats against the nine justices.
The request comes in the wake of the murder of a Chicago federal judge's husband and mother and the shootings in an Atlanta courtroom.
Justices Kennedy and Thomas were also asked questions about recent court decision and the health of Chief Justice William H. Rehnquist.
Yahoo! News - High Court Justices Seek Security Boost
--
This year high school juniors and seniors were introduced to a new and improved Scholastic Achievement Test (SAT). The SAT is one of the predictors of achievement in college.
In addition to the standard English and math sections, the new test requires a written essay. The change in questions and the addition of the essay were supposed to prevent perfect scores. The perfect score on the old SAT was 1600. The prefect score on the new SAT is 2400.
Sources are reporting that 107 students have achieved a perfect score. The College Board, which owns the SAT, confirms the number of perfect scores, but has not yet publicly released detailed information.
Yahoo! News - 107 Achieve New Perfect SAT Score: 2400
--
Lawmakers in Indiana have passed a law requiring voters to show a photo ID before casting a ballot. The new law, like to be signed by Gov. Mitch Daniels (R), is one of the most restrictive in the country.
Republicans said the measure will help prevent voter fraud and restore voter confidence without putting an undue burden on citizens.
Democrats said the measure will hurt poor, minorities, elderly, and disabled individuals who do not drive. The bill did not require a driver's license only a government issued photo ID. The driving argument falls flat. Democrats are concerned that the voters they want to protects vote for Democrats. No self-interest there.
Yahoo! News - Indiana Likely to Require ID at Polls
--
I will be out of town on Wednesday, April 13. If there is a Check This Out Briefing or Update, it will be posted after 5PM CDT.
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