Barack Obama Campaign

What Happened To Obama's Promises?

2009-02-04T03:31:00.001-08:00

When Barack Obama was campaigning for President, he promised he would avoid self interest groups, restrict lobbying and run his cabinet on ethical standards. But with just one month is office, it appears that his promises are anything but!

Consider that two of Obama's cabinet post nominees, Treasury Secretary Timothy Geithner and Health and Human Services Secretary Tom Daschle were investigated by the Senate Finance committee for not paying taxes. As it turned out, Geithner got in and Daschle didn't.

Sure, Obama is not personal at fault here, but he has to take responsibility - he is the commander-the-chief, and he own up to the fact that his experts who do the background checks either didn't do their job or ignored the evidence of both candidates. You may argue is not paying taxes an ethical issue - you're darn straight it is!

As for self interest groups, the Obama Stimulus plan called for giving the movie industry a $256 million tax break. Even though the Republicans were able to cut this item out of the stimulus plan, it makes Obama look bad. After talking about creating jobs and helping out the average American, the whole thing stinks. Spin it anyway you want but I smell a fish!

As for lobbyists, it seems that Barack Obama has appointed at least twelve lobbyists to high government positions in the first two weeks of his administration. Here is a list of a few he has appointed:

Eric Holder, attorney general nominee, was registered to lobby until 2004 on behalf of clients including Global Crossing, a bankrupt telecommunications firm

Tom Vilsack, secretary of agriculture nominee, was registered to lobby as recently as last year on behalf of the National Education Association.

William Lynn, deputy defense secretary nominee, was registered to lobby as recently as last year for defense contractor Raytheon, where he was a top executive.

William Corr, deputy health and human services secretary nominee, was registered to lobby until last year for the Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids, a non-profit that pushes to limit tobacco use.

David Hayes, deputy interior secretary nominee, was registered to lobby until 2006 for clients, including the regional utility San Diego Gas & Electric.

Mark Patterson, chief of staff to Treasury Secretary Timothy Geithner, was registered to lobby as recently as last year for financial giant Goldman Sachs.

Ron Klain, chief of staff to Vice President Joe Biden, was registered to lobby until 2005 for clients, including the Coalition for Asbestos Resolution, U.S. Airways, Airborne Express and drug-maker ImClone.

Mona Sutphen, deputy White House chief of staff, was registered to lobby for clients, including Angliss International in 2003.

Melody Barnes, domestic policy council director, lobbied in 2003 and 2004 for liberal advocacy groups, including the American Civil Liberties Union, the Leadership Conference on Civil Rights, the American Constitution Society and the Center for Reproductive Rights.

Cecilia Munoz, White House director of intergovernmental affairs, was a lobbyist as recently as last year for the National Council of La Raza, a Hispanic advocacy group.

Patrick Gaspard, White House political affairs director, was a lobbyist for the Service Employees International Union.

Michael Strautmanis, chief of staff to the president’s assistant for intergovernmental relations, lobbied for the American Association of Justice from 2001 until 2005.

So, I guess is politics as usual in Washington!

Obama Stimulus Package Approaching $900 Billion

2009-02-04T01:06:00.001-08:00

There was a little good news in the Senate yesterday, by a 71-26 margin, the Senate approved a measure to add a tax break to new car buyers. The tax break would save a new car buyer $1500 on the purchase of a $25000 automobile.

But the rest of the news on Obama's stimulus package is not that good. The price of the stimulus package is soaring to the $900 billion mark as new items are added to the plan.

Two examples that the Republicans identified that should be removed, are a $246 million tax breaks to the movie industry and $25 billion for highways, mass transit and water projects.

The Republicans have been successful in cutting the tax break for the movie industry and it looks like the highway funding is also out.

"We can't add to the size of this bill," said Senator Jim Inhofe, an Oklahoma Republican. "The amount is just inconceivable to most people."

The $819 billion plan approved without a single Republican vote in the House last week faces assaults from both Democrats and Republicans during debate this week, as lawmakers aim to kill ideas that won't jolt the economy right away.

"The goal is to shape a package that is more targeted, that would be smaller in size and that would be truly focused on saving or creating jobs and turning the economy around," said Senator Susan Collins, a Maine Republican. She said ideas like $870 million to combat bird flu should be dumped.

Senator John McCain, Obama's presidential rival, urged supporters yesterday through his Country First political action committee to sign an online petition against the package, calling it "big on the giveaways for the special interests and corporate high rollers, yet short on help for ordinary working Americans."

Democratic leaders conceded they may soon be obliged to cut billions of dollars from the measure. "It goes without saying if it's going to pass in the Senate, it has to be bipartisan," said Dick Durbin of Illinois, the second-ranking Democrat in the Senate.

Obama took his sales pitch to the airwaves, doing interviews in the Oval Office with major broadcast and cable networks. "I think we are closer to getting it right than all of these critics," he said on Fox News Channel.

As part of its hard sell, the White House released job-creation estimates from the economic package. It said that of the 3 million to 4 million jobs the plan would save or create, 800,000 of them would be in 10 Eastern states. The estimates include 83,000 jobs in Massachusetts, 44,000 in Connecticut, 17,000 in New Hampshire, 16,000 in Maine, 13,000 in Rhode Island, and 8,000 in Vermont.

Nineteen Democratic and Republican governors cited frozen credit markets and rising unemployment in urging lawmakers to resolve their differences and asking Obama to sign the bill as soon as it reaches his desk. The governors said the money it provides for public education, healthcare, and rebuilding the nation's infrastructure will create and preserve jobs while making a sound investment in the country's long-term economic interests.

It's obvious the President's stimulus plan is a lot less popular than he is. And it is very possible that his popularity could take a dive if this stimulus package is not signed soon.

Obama Drama #2: Another Nominee With Tax Problems

2009-01-31T23:56:00.000-08:00

Obama Drama #2! Sounds like the title of a Pop Song doesn't it?
Unfortunately, it isn't!

Early last week Obama's nominee for Treasury Czar, Tim Geitner was grilled by the Senate Finance Committee on tax issues and ended up paying $34,000 in back taxes. He blamed on the tax software TurboTax.

Now Obama's pick to head Health and Human Services, Tom Daschle, has some explaining to do for not paying taxes on a car and driver.

The Senate Finance committee will meet on Monday, Februrary 2, 2009, to review the tax records of former Sen. Tom Daschle, President Barack Obama's nominee for secretary of Health and Human Services for not paying taxes. Sound familiar?

Somehow word got out that Daschle was loaned a car and driver by a wealthy friend and failed to disclose it on his income taxes, as he should have. Daschle has since paid what he owed, the source said.

According to CNN, White House spokesman Robert Gibbs said that Daschle brought the issues to the committee's attention himself and that Obama is "confident" he will be confirmed.

Daschle, 61, of South Dakota, served in the Senate from 1987-2005 and served as Democratic leader from 1995 until after he was defeated in a re-election bid in 2004. He has been a confidant and adviser to Obama, and it was not a surprise when Obama tabbed him for a role in his administration.

"The president has confidence that Senator Daschle is the right person to lead the fight for health care reform," Gibbs said Friday. "In preparation for his nomination, Senator Daschle and his accountant identified some tax issues and fixed them. They filed an amended return with the IRS and made payments with interest."

Jim Manley, spokesman for Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid, said that Daschle would be confirmed. "He has a long and distinguished career and record in public service and is the best person to help reform health care in this country," Manley said. "Senator Reid looks forward to a swift hearing and is confident Daschle will be confirmed."

Sen. Charles Grassley, the ranking Republican member of the committee, said Friday that Daschle's confirmation process has been the same as every other he's participated in since 2001.
He said the process "established certain tax violations, for which the nominee has amended or is amending returns."

He said the information that was discovered will be made public now that all committee members have been made aware of it. "The public's business ought to be public, and committee members must weigh all the facts of a nominee's record," he said in a written statement.

A congressional source also told CNN the committee has looked at several trips Daschle took, while he was out of office, on the private jet of Educap, a nonprofit group that works to help college students get loans.

Why is this coming to light now? And he "offered up" the information to the committee? "BullDanky".

What kind of example do these high ranking government officials set for the U.S. citizen. You would expect each and every single one to abide by the laws. I mean, we all have to!

It is really disappointing that 2 of the president's nominees had to be quizzed on IRS tax issues. It just sets a bad example.

What else will we hear about other Obama nominees in the future?

Obama Reverses Bush Policy On Energy

2009-01-26T08:19:00.000-08:00

President Barack Obama spoke live to the American public today from the East Room, but his speech was specifically targeted to the EPA and the U.S. automakers.
In his address, the President delivered a pledge for a new push for energy independence. He signed an executive order today requiring the Environmental Protection Agency to reconsider an application by California to set its own auto emissions and fuel efficiency standards beyond what is called for by federal law.
Under the President's plan, California plus 13 other states will be able to mandate greater fuel efficiency than the Federal government requires. Obama will do so by directing the Environmental Protection Agency to grant a waiver for the states to allow them to set their own standards for emissions, the official said.
This is a complete reversal of the Bush administration policy that denied this waiver.
Automakers agreed with Bush and vehemently opposed the waivers, saying creating another set of rules regarding pollution standards for some states would be confusing and unenforceable.
Besides the EPA waivers, Obama also will call for automakers to increase their fuel efficiency standards nationwide, the official said.
The president also will direct the federal government to make its buildings more energy efficient and to find new ways for federal agencies to save energy.

Obama Needs To Stimulate Republicans On His Economic Plan

2009-01-26T02:24:00.000-08:00

Barack Obama has his work cut out for him in winning over Republican lawmakers on his economic stimulus plan. The President proved he could win over the voters, including the Republican and Independents, but can he convince the House?
Well, later on this week, President Obama will have his chance to meet the House Republicans and "sell" his $825 billion economic stimulus plan.
Barack Obama has a few things going for him that might win over the Republicans. First of all, the Republicans realize that the President has a very high approval rating with the American people, with more than two-thirds approval. Secondly, he is reaching out to the Republicans, something that former President Bush did not do. Thirdly, if the Republicans do not cooperate, it could appear they are not willing to come together with their fellow constituents when it comes to reviving the economy.
The president has already called numerous Republican lawmakers to talk about cooperation and win the release of $350 billion in financial-rescue funds, as part of a program that has been used to shore up such lenders as Citigroup Inc. and Bank of America Corp. While Republicans say they are impressed, they’re skeptical about whether he can achieve consensus after years of rancor between the two parties.
“There’s a large difference between gesture and policy,” says House Republican Conference Chairman Mike Pence of Indiana, the party’s No. 3 leader in the House. “The real test for President Obama and his team will be the degree to which they give Republicans and Republican ideas a real hearing.”
Obama will need Republican support on a range of issues, including legislation establishing a “cap and trade” system designed to curb greenhouse-gas emissions, which may benefit companies including General Electric.
Barack Obama needs to break the 20 year history of bitter political infighting. That may result in him giving in on some of the Republican demands in his economic stimulus plan. This move could alienate some in his own party as well.
Barack Obama will need all the cunning and diplomatic savvy to keep the balance between both parties if he wants to succeed.
But the truth of the matter is that the President is extending an olive branch to the Republican, and it doesn't appear to just be lip service. Politicans may soon be headed in the right direction - toward the center!

Obama's Actions Are Bigger Than His Words

2009-01-24T22:21:00.000-08:00

Sure, Barack Obama is without a doubt, a remarkably smooth public speaker. But if there was any doubt that Barack Obama was ready to back up his words, his actions in the first week of office should convince you of it.
Barack Obama seems to be a different breed of president. Yes, he is the first Blackberry President and has the technological savve to seem "hip" with young Americans. But president Obama also has the courage and confidence to bring on the best talent he can find, and actually listen to all sides. This is what excites me about the man.
In the past, it seems that presidents were all too fast with making decisions on their own and avoiding the advise of the experts. Those decisions appeared to the American public as arrogance. It also seems that they may have been decisions made by someone who is out of touch with the American people.
Barack Obama is showing that he is a true leader. A leader is someone who develops a team; a team of experts not necessarily based on political bias, but on experience, knowledge and conviction. A leader takes that advice, debates the issues from all sides and then makes a decision based on what is best. And finally, is not afraid to make the decision, however difficult.
Barack is not afraid to admit mistakes, and he is not afraid to reevaluate his policies or goals while keeping the American people in the loop. Consider the fact that he has explained that the economy is not going to be fixed overnight. That is different from what he said on the campaign trail
The President has stepped right up to the plate in making some tough, unpopular decisions like closing Guantanamo Bay, closing secret CIA prisons, reevaluating our relationship with Cuba and reversing Bush's policy on abortion funding overseas. He has made a big splash in just one week!
I think Barack Obama's biggest asset is his positive approach to the challenges we all face. I am confident he will be able to "rally the troops" when we need it the most. Even if you don't agree with his decisions, you can feel better that he at least discussed it with his team and made what he thought was the right decision for the American people.
Barack Obama has brought new life to politics, to American and most important to all citizens of this great country, the United States of America.

Will Congress Pass The Obama Energy Plan?

2009-01-21T18:52:00.000-08:00

The energy plan that president Barack Obama has been promoting was drafted when gas prices were at record levels. Providing short-term relief at the pump was the first issue promised.

Now that gas prices have been drastically reduced, Obama's administration still faces big time challenges to overcome in executing his "New Energy For America" plan.

The Obama-Biden energy plan pledges to do the following:

Help create 5 million new jobs by investing $150 billion over 10 years in clean energy initiatives
Increase the nation's use of electricity from renewable sources to 10 percent of our total use by 2012, and 25 percent by 2025
Institute a national cap-and-trade program to reduce greenhouse gas emissions 80 percent by 2050

Now that economic and unemployment woes have been overshadowed by his ambitious energy agenda, Obama's first priority will be to secure the passage of an $800 billion stimulus package.

Barack Obama's innnovative plan to use the energy sector as his cornerstone for economic relief is a significant piece of his stimulus package. Obama believes the benefits of a renewable energy economy can create 450,000 energy-related jobs by the end of 2010. And the overall stimulus package will save or create a total of 4 million jobs in that same time period.

A significant portion of those jobs could be created in Pennsylvania, according to a report by the Political Science Research Institute at the University of Massachusetts. The report, prepared for the Green Jobs for America Camp, a coalition of environmental and labor groups, says investments in alternative energy in Pennsylvania could produce more than 85,000 jobs.

But first, the plan must make it through Congress.

Bruce Bullock, director of the Maguire Energy Institute at Southern Methodist University's Cox School of Business in Dallas, is skeptical about the passage of those parts of the plan that push alternative energy in light of the "food vs. fuel" controversy that emerged with the growth of corn-based ethanol.

"I don't believe Congress or the American taxpayer is eager to subsidize another industry that will take even more money out of the consumers pocket," he said. "Oil and natural gas are cheap now and the economics of alternative energy sources are questionable at best."

Marilyn Ann Brown, professor of energy policy at the Georgia Institute of Technology in Atlanta, agrees that when it comes to alternative energy, "the Obama platform is possibly more aggressive than he can get into an energy bill."

Noting that about 3 percent or 4 percent of the nation's electricity now comes from nonfossil-fuel sources, she said getting to 10 percent by 2012 "would be a heavy lift."

"Twenty-five percent by 2025 may be more doable, because it's so far out that people won't be as cautionary," she said.

Both experts agreed that initiatives to push energy efficiency would probably encounter smoother sailing in Congress.

Mr. Bullock sees the administration's Smart Grid initiative, which calls for the creation of a Grid Modernization Commission, as a winner. The commission would be charged with facilitating the nationwide adoption of distributed generation, smart meters and other technologies to improve the efficiency and reliability of the electricity grid.

"Energy efficiency investments are the 'low-hanging fruit' and will likely pass with relative ease," he said.

For Western Pennsylvania, the most significant portion of the energy plan pertains to the use of coal.

The plan calls for the development and deployment of "clean coal technology" that enables coal producers to capture the carbon dioxide emitted by coal and sequester it, or store it underground. Mr. Obama wants the Department of Energy to partner with private companies to develop five coal-fired electric plants that use carbon capture and sequestration.

Doing so "will help the industry to turn the corner" in the development of clean-coal facilities, said Thomas Hoffman, vice present of Consol Energy.

"Like most new technologies, there's a long line of people who are ready to build the third plant that deploys it," he said. "The challenge is to find people to do plant No. 1 and No. 2."

One of the most ambitious elements of the Obama-Biden plan is the establishment of a national system for creating and trading carbon allowances, with the goal of reducing greenhouse gas emissions 80 percent by 2050.

Ms. Brown said that while there would be "major energy legislation" passed in 2009, a cap-and-trade regime would not be a part of it -- first, because of uncertainty about associated costs, but also because there is still a "fundamental debate about whether it should be a cap-and-trade or a carbon tax," with the Congressional Budget Office having gone on record as saying that the latter would be preferable.

The Obama-Biden plan also pledges to "reduce oil consumption enough within 10 years to save more oil than we currently import from the Middle East and Venezuela combined," by increasing fuel economy standards and pushing for the development of hybrids and automotive battery technology.

The administration wants to see 1 million plug-in hybrid cars on the road by 2015, and has promised to take the lead by converting the entire White House fleet to plug-ins "as security permits" within one year. By 2012, half of all cars purchased by the federal government will be plug-in hybrids or all-electric cars.

The plan also mandates that by 2012 all new vehicles are flexible-fuel vehicles, able to run on biofuels as well as on gasoline.

source: Pittsburgh Post-Gazette

Left Handed Presidents Keep Adding Up

2009-01-20T14:15:00.000-08:00

Is it a just a weird coincidence that six of the last 14 American presidents have been left-handed? And now add president Barack Obama to make it 7 out of the last 15. This is a very interesting statistic considering that approximately 10% of the total population is lefthanded.
Have you heard of the old adage "lefties are the only ones in their right minds"? So is there something to it? Are there significant personality trait differences between righties and lefties? Here are some interesting facts:
If you're left-handed, your personality traits may include resiliency & independence. Here are a few fascinating facts about left-handed people, lefties, or Southpaws.
First, Some Left-Handed Statistics About 10% of the world’s population is left-handed. There is a genetic component that determines right versus left-hand dominance, and it’s called the LRRTM1 gene. People with this gene are more likely to be lefties.
The speech centers of right-handers and most left-handers are in the left brain. The left brain focuses on syntax and order, while the right brain monitors context and emotions.
Some of us are “mixed-handed” people, which means both hands are used equally.
Psychological Characteristics of Left-handed PeopleLeadership. About 66% of American presidents in the last 30 years were left-handed men. Bill Clinton, George H.W. Bush, Ronald Reagan, and Gerald Fold were all left-handed presidents. Barack Obama and John McCain are both left-handed.Quick thinkers. Studies have shown that lefties are “exceptional.” Australian research shows that left-handed people think more quickly when playing computer games or sports. Left-handed people also tend to earn more money.Sexuality. Research from Canada reveals this interesting quality of left-handed people: they’re more likely to be homosexual.Mixed-handed people are more likely to alter their beliefs as they get new information, making them better able to see both sides of the story.
Personality Traits of LeftiesIndependence: Some experts believe left-handed people are more independent because they’ve had to get along in a world that’s not made for them. Dr Peters says that lefties are “slightly more resistant to social pressures, to have more of an independent streak.”Adaptability: Canadian research shows that left-handed people are more adaptable than right-handed people. That is, a lefty can use her right hand to do tasks much easier than a righty can use his hand. Left-handed people seem to be able to switch over more easily.Generally, Southpaws are thought to be more flexible, highly intelligent, and more resilient than right-handed people.
So there you have it! The quick thinking, adaptable southpaws hold the world in their LEFT hand.

Seizure Causes Tragedy At Obama Inauguration

2009-01-20T12:41:00.000-08:00

Tragic news at the Obama Inauguration today. Senators Ted Kennedy and Robert Byrd both were removed from President Obama's celebratory inaugural luncheon. Senator Edward Kennedy (Massachusetts) suffered a seizure and Senator Robert Byrd (West Virginia) after becoming "emotional."
A Republican House leadership member said Kennedy suffered a series of convulsions that lasted a while. He was taken out on a wheelchair and had to have his legs lifted up to get him out of the room. He was loaded onto an ambulance and removed.
Byrd, 91, and in failing health, was reportedly "emotional" at the time of his collapse and security detail decided to remove him from the room as a precautionary measure. His office said he is fine now and a former senior staffer chalked it up to his deciding to leave the lunch early.
Byrd and Kennedy were at the same table -- along with Vice President Biden and second lady Jill Biden. The dual incidents occurred during the lunch portion of the program and did not interrupt the speeches.
Sen. John Kerry and wife, Teresa Heinz Kerry, helped Kennedy get into the reclining chair in which he was wheeled out.
Last summer, the Massachusetts Democrat was diagnosed with a life-threatening brain tumor. Kennedy was one of Obama's earliest supporters and is credited with leading the pack of lawmakers who pushed Obama's popularity.
Republican Sen. Orrin Hatch said Kennedy signaled to him that he was going to be OK.
"It was serious," said Hatch. "But he gave me that old Irish smile that said 'Things are going to be alright.' I've seen that smile before."
Former Vice President Walter Mondale was also sitting at the table with Kennedy and Byrd.
"Everyone was shaken," said Mondale. "We were all having a good time. Telling war stories."
Sen. Dianne Feinstein, head of the Joint Congressional Committee on Inaugural Ceremonies, asked for a group prayer.
Texas Republican Sen. John Cornyn said he is a great admirer of Kennedy even though they disagree philosophically.
"He's been a courageous fighter as he has been for his entire career. ... Our thoughts and prayers go with him," Cornyn said.
These events have taken some of the excitement and happiest from this historical event. Barack Obama is said to be in contact with doctors and waiting for updates on both of their conditions.

George W. "Shoes" Bush Becomes The Fourth Live Ex-President

2009-01-20T12:04:00.000-08:00

Now that George W. Bush is an ex-president, it brings the total of live ex-U.S. presidents to 4. They are:
Jimmy Carter, the 39th U.S. President

George H.W. Bush, the 41st (they call me "Bush 41")

Bill Clinton, the 42nd U.S President

George W. Bush, the 43rd U.S. President.

So what was George "the 43rd" doing on Barack Obama's Inauguration Day?

Was he rummaging for a new pair of shoes?Nope, rumor has it, he spent the day in the White House making phone calls to various leaders around the world. It's funny how soon he became "old news" so quickly. I guess he and his Texas buddy Dick Cheney will have plenty of time to get those hunting rifles and stir up a good 'ole time in the Lone Star state - or maybe they can start kickin' it at Billy Bob's.

Another question is: What are the citizens of America feeling about George the 43rd?

The short answer - George who? But there is one group of relentless group of protestors, calling themselves “Arrest Bush 2009", are holding a “Yes We Can Arrest Bush” event in front of the FBI Building in Washington, DC during the Inaugural Parade.
However, coordinator Jose Rodriguez insists, “It’s not a protest; it’s a celebratory event.”
Arrest Bush 2009, which is sponsored by the Washington Peace Center, After Downing Street, and Shoes For Bush, is demanding that Bush be arrested for war crimes and for lying to the American people.
Calls for Bush’s arrest began last March, when two Vermont towns approved a measure “that would instruct police to arrest President George W. Bush and Vice President Dick Cheney for ‘crimes against our Constitution.’”

The era of the Bush is over as Obama rolls into town!

Aretha Franklin Revs 'Em Up At The Inauguration

2009-01-20T11:16:00.000-08:00

Who was that man who gave the invocation at the Barack Obama presidential inauguration? It was none other than Rick Warren, the megachurch pastor and not exactly the darling of the Obama faithful because of his support of California’s anti-gay marriage initiative - gave the invocation.
The crowd was a little stunned when Sen. Dianne Feinstein introduced him, and then a moment of soft chatter when everyone was asked to stand - but his invocation was met with solemn prayer, finishing with a rendition of the Lord’s Prayer that some, at least, prayed along with.
But it was the "Queen of Sold", Aretha Franklin, the well-known singer, songwriter and pianist, who got the inauguration party started - warming the spectators up for Joe Biden’s rather swiftly delivered oath of office.
Aretha sang 'Let Freedom Ring' in front of the Capitol Building on Capitol Hill, where millions of people were gathered to see the new President sworn in.
Obama was right there, with his wife Michelle and his two daughters, with Franklin sang with that big "Bow" hat on here head.The bow on her head made her look like a gift from the gods or maybe the New Year's baby. But it doesn't matter what she looked like - she was awesome and the crowd really got into it.
Following Franklin's performance, new Vice-President Joe Biden was sworn in, and then after the performance of a piece of music written by 'Star Wars' soundtrack composer John Williams - Obama himself was sworn in as the the 44th President of the United States Of America.

The Obama Effect

2009-01-20T10:05:00.000-08:00

It is the party of the century. It is the place to be. There are no tickets to be had. And this is politics? The inauguration of Barack Obama is the biggest thing ever. Bigger than the parties after VE Day, bigger than the party when the Red Sox won the MLB World Series. Bigger than anything, anytime, anywhere.
Barack Obama's Inauguration is the milestone of milestones - something that just a half century ago, nobody could have foreseen - a black man as president of the United States of America. It was less than 50 years ago when another great man, the Reverand Martin Luther King, spoke out about inequality and prejudism. And how poetic, that Barack Obama is inaugurated one day after we celebrate Martin Luther King Day.
The inauguration of the first black American president is a testiment to how far this country has come. Some will argue that that racism is still rampant in America - but of course there will always be biggots. But if you look at racism and prejudice in America as a whole - there is absolutely no doubt that we have come a long way.
In his auguration speech, Barack Obama says we must all come together - more now, than at any other time in the past. His message is clear, we must all put aside our differences and com together - all races, all colors, all creeds.
This is more than a very proud moment for Barack Obama, this is the proudest moment for each and every person in the United States of America.

Holy Toledo Does Mrs. Obama Shine In Gold!

2009-01-20T09:01:00.001-08:00

Doesn't she look beautiful. Michele Obama looked elegant? Everyone's been waiting and wondering what gown she would wear. Mrs. Barack Obama is wearing a golden gown designed by Cuban-American designer Isabel Toledo, and is in keeping with Mrs. Obama's habit of choosing lesser-known designers for high-profile events.
Michelle donned a black gown from the same designer for a New York City fashion world fundraiser in June 2008.
Isabel Toledo was born in Cuba and moved to New Jersey where she attended high school and met her future husband and collaborator, Ruben Toledo. Toledo attended the Fashion Institute of Technology (NY) and Parsons School of Design (NY) where she studied painting, ceramics, and fashion design. An avid sewer from a young age, Toledo's work reflects not only a distinct design sense but a keen understanding of garment construction and appreciation for the geometric intricacies of pattern shapes.
In 1984, Toledo married artist Ruben Toledo and in 1985 presented her first collection. In 1998, she stopped presenting biannual collections, instead choosing to create on her own schedule.
Along with her husband, Ruben Toledo, Isabel was the recipient of the Cooper Hewitt national design award for their work in fashion in 2005. Toledo made her debut with Anne Klein at New York Fashion Week in February 2007 to critical acclaim. She and Anne Klein parted ways, however, a few months later.
One notable appearance of a design by Toledo took place Wednesday, June 18, 2008, when Michelle Obama, wife of presidential hopeful Barack Obama, appeared at a New York City fashion world fund-raiser wearing a black outfit by the designer - and now Mrs. Obama wears her again - and only to the biggest event this century.

7 Ways to Get Obama Inauguration Party Tickets

2009-01-20T00:21:00.000-08:00

The biggest party ever is set for Tuesday, January 20, in Washington, D.C.. The party is for the inauguration of the 44th president of the United States of America - Barack Obama. .

But how do you get a ticket for the great show? Here are the ways:

1. Call your Senator
I'm sure you're Senator remembers you. Didn't you vote for him? Just give him a call and I'm sure he'll send you a ticket!

2. Steal a Ticket
You could wait in one of the park and rides into D.C. and pick someone's pocket.

3. Bribe Someone
Again, go to the park and ride and ask around. For a few thousand bucks I'm sure you'll get some takers.

4. Ticket Scalper
Boy, it looks like that park and ride is the place to be. Just stand around and listen to the person screaming "Tickets, Tickets, I got Tickets for the Obama Blast!

5. Ticket Broker
Call your local ticket broker. I know they've hoarding them until the last moment so they can jack up the price.

6. Get on A Talkshow and Beg For Tickets
Make up some phony excuse like you're trying to get some underprivileged kids to see Obama. The TV Talkshow host will find you some.

7. Sneak In
Oh come-on@ You can sneak past the Secret Service, FBI, Washington Police and a host of undercover brothers. No problem!

I was only kidding. If you're nobody like most of us - the only way in is... well there ain't no way - You'll just have to watch it on TV.

300 Billion Tax Cut Benefits

2009-01-05T12:44:00.000-08:00

President-elect Barack Obama and Democrats in Congress are mulling over $300 billion in individual and business tax cuts, The Wall Street Journal reported.
The cuts would be intended in part to encourage businesses to hire workers and reduce the tax burden on middle class taxpayers, the newspaper said Sunday. The size of the tax cuts is also intended to appeal to congressional Republicans, who have expressed little support for Obama's proposal to spend hundreds of billions of dollars to stimulate the economy.
The tax cuts would amount to about 40 percent of the stimulus package, which Democrats have said could call for spending as much as $800 billion over two years.
A $300 billion tax cut would be larger than either of the two major tax cuts enacted during President George W. Bush's first term in the White House, the Journal said. The first Bush tax cut -- which amounted to $1.35 trillion over 10 years -- provided for $174 billion in cuts during the first two years of the plan, while the second Bush tax cut contained $231 billion in cuts over two years.
The plan under consideration calls for cuts for people who pay income taxes or who claim the earned-income credit. It would allow businesses to write off major losses incurred in 2008, as well as 2009 losses, retroactively to reduce tax obligations dating back five years, the newspaper said.
The proposal would make new business investment write-offs retroactive to Jan. 1, 2009, the Journal said.
The plan would also provide for a tax credit for businesses that hire new workers or call back laid off employees.

Obama Rejects Blagojevich's Senator Proposal

2008-12-31T03:19:00.000-08:00

Barack Obama says Democratic senators should reject the man proposed by Blagojevich to replace Obama in the vacant Illinois Senate seat.
Rod Blagojevich, as we all know, is the subject of a criminal inquiry into the reported "senate seat for sale" fiasco. But by U.S. law, he still has the power to fill the Illinois senate seat vacated by president-elect Barack Obama.
And Gov Blagojevich, defying the pressure, has picked Roland Burris, the state's former attorney general, to fill the position.
Democratic senators have vowed to veto anyone appointedby Mr. Blagojevich. And Barack Obama agrees that the Senate "cannot accept" a new senator chosen by Blagojevich. He added that Rod should resign.
Obama doesn't have a beef with his proposed replacement, it's the circumstances.
Mr. Burris, 71, became the first African-American to be elected to statewide office in Illinois when he won the 1978 election to be state comptroller. He was state attorney general from 1991 to 1995 and made unsuccessful bids for the US Senate in 1984 and Illinois governor in 1994.
"Roland Burris is a good man and a fine public servant," said Mr Obama.
"But the Senate Democrats made it clear weeks ago that they cannot accept an appointment made by a governor who is accused of selling this very Senate seat. I agree with their decision."
Appearing with Mr Burris to announce his choice, Mr Blagojevich said: "Please don't allow the allegations against me to taint a good and honest man."
"It is truly regrettable that... Governor Blagojevich would take the imprudent step of appointing someone to the United States Senate who would serve under a shadow and be plagued by questions of impropriety," said Mr Reid.
"Anyone appointed by Governor Blagojevich cannot be an effective representative of the people of Illinois and ... will not be seated by the Democratic Caucus."
This story is far from being over and no one knows what will happen in the future. But one thing is for sure - someone has to replace Obama's former Senate seat

The Obama Green Evolution Revolution

2008-12-21T11:56:00.000-08:00

President-elect Barack Obama will change the polarity of the Republican global warming policy by adding leading scientists in key administration posts.

On Saturday, December 20, 2008, Obama promised to end George Bush's "twisting" of science to suit "politics or ideology" in an extraordinarily outspoken address to the nation, and announced that he was putting top climate scientists in key positions in his administration.

This move makes it clear that he is making climate change and the environment his most urgent priorities. He will also tie them to bring back the economy by creating 5 million jobs in the alternative energy, alternative fuel and hybrid and electric vehicle industries.

But before Obama gets into office, President Bush is pushing a record number of last-minute rule changes to increase mining and oil drilling on public lands, and even to allow people to carry concealed, loaded guns into national parks.

George W. Bush has a history of ignoring his senior government scientists who disagreed with it, and even altered scientific reports – causing more than 60 top academics to sign a petition accusing the White House of manipulating findings for political reasons.

Barack Obama has vowed to change this approach and will promote science by ensuring that facts and evidence are never twisted or obscured by politics or ideology. It's about listening to what our scientists have to say, even when it's inconvenient – especially when it's inconvenient. That will be my goal as president of the United States."

Obama has made his top scientific appointments and environmentalists are optimistcc. He has selected a Harvard physicist and a marine biologist who have been advocates of forceful government action in response to climate change. John Holdren will become the director of the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy. Jane Lubchenco will lead the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Adminstration (NOAA). They will have enormous influence over his government's green policies.

The appointments follow the naming earlier this month of Steven Chu – a Nobel prize-winning physicist, and another prominent advocate of urgent measures to tackle climate change – to the key position of energy secretary, and a decision to create a special office on energy and climate within the White House headed by Carole Browner, Bill Clinton's former environment chief.

Both Professors Holdren and Lubchenco are past presidents of the American Association for the Advancement of Science. Professor Holdren, a professor at Harvard University and director of the blue-chip Woods Hole Research Center, will be science adviser to Mr Obama, who has elevated the position to an official assistant to the president.

He recently called for immediate action on climate change, saying that it was already causing "widespread harm". But he is also sceptical about nuclear power, reflecting a feeling in the Obama team that it cannot be made economical.

Professor Lubchenco, of Oregon State University, a similarly outspoken expert on oceans and global warming, is to be the first female administrator of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, which measures the pace of global warming, tracks hurricanes and monitors the health of the world's seas.

The chief scientist at Defra, Professor Bob Watson, who worked in the Clinton White House, said yesterday that Obama was putting together "a phenomenal team of world- class scientists", as a sign that he was "totally committed to the environment".

Here is the rest of Barack's green dream team:

Professor Steven Chu

The Nobel Prize-winning physicist becomes Energy Secretary. He is a forceful advocate of America's urgent move towards carbon-free energy.

Professor John Holdren

A physicist at Harvard University who directs the prestigious Woods Hole Research Centre, he will have the ear of the President as Obama's top scientific advisor.

Professor Jane Lubchenco

A leading expert on the effects of global warming on oceans, she becomes the first woman administrator of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

Congresswoman Hilda Solis

The new Labour Secretary advocates providing employment through a clean energy economy. She was key sponsor of a Green Jobs Act last year.

Carole Browner

Head of the Environmental Protection Agency under President Clinton, she is on the radical side of the party and will head a White House energy and climate unit.

Senator Ken Salazar

Colorado Senator Ken Salazar is more controversial as Interior Secretary. The top environment groups are pleased but radicals have doubts.

The Obama Tax Plan Revisited

2008-12-16T08:41:00.000-08:00

Now that president-elect Barack Obama is ready to take the reins of the United States, it's time to refocus on his campaign promises about his tax reform.

Here is the tax outline of Obama's campaign promises before the election. Do you think he will deliver?

Married couples making $75,000, with 2 children, with one of them in college would be entitled to a tax cut of:
$3,700, this amount includes...

$1,000 Making Work Pay Tax Credit
$ 500 universal mortgage credit
$4,000 college creditMarried couples making $90,000 would be entitled to
$1,000

Single parents, making $40,000, with 2 young children and childcare expenses would be entitled to:
$2,100, this amount includes...

$500 making work pay tax credit
$500 universal mortgage credit
$1,100 from Obama expansion of the child care tax credit

A 70 year old widow making $35,000 would be entitled to:
$1,900

These calculations are based on IRS Statistics of Income. The good news is that these tax savings are actually conservative, because they do not account for other tax credits and incentives that you may qualify for, specifically:

$500 in savings from expanded Savers Credit$2500 in savings per family from the Obama healthcare plan.

We will soon seen if his word is good!

Supreme Court Upholds Obama's Eligibility To Serve

2008-12-15T09:15:00.000-08:00

The Supreme Court has turned down another challenge to Barack Obama's eligibility to serve as president because of his citizenship.

The appeal by Cort Wrotnowski of Greenwich, Conn., was denied Monday without comment.

Wrotnowski argued that Obama was a British subject at birth and therefore cannot meet the requirement for becoming president.

He wanted the high court to halt presidential electors from meeting to formally elect Obama as president.

Echoing an appeal that was rejected by justices last week, Wrotnowski said that since Obama had dual nationality at birth - his mother was American, his Kenyan father was a British subject - he cannot possibly be a "natural born citizen."

At least two other appeals over Obama's citizenship remain at the court. Philip J. Berg of Lafayette Hill, Pa., argues that Obama was born in Kenya, not Hawaii as Obama says and Hawaii officials have confirmed.

Federal courts in Pennsylvania have dismissed Berg's lawsuit. Federal courts in Ohio and Washington state have rejected similar lawsuits.

Allegations raised on the Internet say the birth certificate, showing that Obama was born in Hawaii on Aug. 4, 1961, is a fake.

But Hawaii Health Department Director Dr. Chiyome Fukino and the state's registrar of vital statistics, Alvin Onaka, say they checked health department records and have determined there's no doubt Obama was born in Hawaii.

The nonpartisan Web site Factcheck.org examined the original document and said it does have a raised seal and the usual evidence of a genuine document.

In addition, Factcheck.org reproduced an announcement of Obama's birth, including his parents' address in Honolulu, that was published in the Honolulu Advertiser on Aug. 13, 1961.

Source Newark Examiner

Barack Hussein Obama To Reboot America's Image

2008-12-11T08:53:00.000-08:00

What is in a name? Apparently everything. According to president-elect Barack Obama, he will use his full name Barack Hussein Obama in his swearing-in ceremony in January.
Asked why he would use his middle name "Hussein". Obama pledged to "reboot America's image" among the world's Muslims and wil follow tradition by using his entire name.
It is no secret that the United States image has taken a tremendous hit in the last 8 years. And the reasons are obvious: opposition to the U.S led invasion of Iraq, harsh interrogation of prisoners, indefinite detention of terrorist suspects at Guantanamo Ba, Cuba, and mistreatment of inmates at Abu Ghraib prison.
Obama went so far as to promise he would make a speech from within a Muslim capital.
The election of Barack Obama as president has already helped soften the stance of many countries opposed to the current administration's arrogance and position on world affairs. In fact, experts believe that tradition terrorist groups like Al-Qaeda are already impacted by Obama's nomination. More than anything it demonstrates that Al Qaeda is genuinely concerned about an Obama presidency and views it as a strategic threat to its existence.
In addition, one could safely assume that the overwhelming majority of international audience has cheered his victory. From curing economic ills to ending the war in Iraq, expectations of Obama among some of his foreign fans are stratospheric.
However, one country in particular, Israel, would probably have felt better with a Republican president.
Never the less, the president-elect will dramatically change the image of the United States around the globe.

Obama's Energy Initiatives Will Cost Us Big Time

2008-12-10T11:46:00.000-08:00

When president-elect Barack Obama takes office in mid-January 2009, it will mark a dramatic change in how the federal government approaches the issues of green energy and dependence on foreign oil. But what are we to expect?

Barack Obama has been saying all the right things and there is no doubt that he will back his rhetoric with action. However, some of those actions can have a profound effect on the economy, energy prices and the U.S consumer. His plan is a long term solution that will have painful consequences in the shortrun that could negatively impact the short term recovery of the economy.

The President-to-be will exercise his regulatory and legislative influence extensively to change America's energy direction that will lead to higher electricity and fossil fuel prices. With industry mandates to reduce greenhouse gases, his plan, if enacted will require utilities that emit higher levels of greenhouse gas to purchase credits at auction from those that beat their emissions targets.

At this time, the U.S. is one of the world's lowest-cost producers of electricity. In 2007, the average price of electricity to industrial end-users in the U.S. was 6.4 cent per kilowatt-hour. The implementation of cap-and-trade will most likely raise electricity rates between 40% and 90% during his term in office. This will erase the competitive advantage of relatively low energy prices in the U.S.

President-elect Obama is adament on finding ways to reduce gas consumption and promote alternative fuel sources. Obama intends to impose a 4% increase in CAFE (Corporate Average Fuel Economy) standards each year, and work to mandate that all new vehicles coming from Detroit have FFV (Flexible Fuel Vehicle) capability; that is, the ability to run on biofuels, within four years.

The new administration intends to set a goal of one million plug-in hybrid electric vehicles on American roads by 2015, and establish a National Low Carbon Fuel Standard (LFCS) to further increase the development of low-carbon, non-petroleum fuels.

Based in part on the revenue generated by the cap-and-trade program, the new administration's plan includes investing up to $150 billion over 10 years in low emissions coal plants, biofuels and fuel infrastructure, and a new digital-based electricity grid. A new Renewable Portfolio Standard (RPS) will require that 10 percent of the nation's electricity consumption come from alternative energy including wind, solar and geothermal by 2012, and 25% by 2025.

Finally, natural gas is seen as a critical component of the Obama energy framework. Under the new plan, natural gas will fuel hybrid electric vehicles, and increasingly replace coal as a low-carbon alternative at power plants.

Clearly Barack Obama has an ambitious energy agenda-yet it remains to be seen how much of that agenda will actually be enacted. The current economic crisis will occupy the first months of his administration, although legislation for alternative fuel research and development will probably come quickly. Pursuit of the cap-and-trade program and federal renewable portfolio standard will likely follow, as soon as economic conditions permit.

If history is to repeat itself, increased regulation will result in higher prices, fewer choices, less efficiency, and reduced competitiveness.

Obama Denies Knowledge of Blagojevich Intentions

2008-12-09T13:07:00.000-08:00

In the wake of the fiasco of the Rod Blagojevich arrest, president-elect Barack Obama distanced himself from the episode.

In a short statement while meeting with Al Gore on energy and climate change, he denied any involvement or knowledge of the plot by Blagojevich to sell the open Illinois Senate seat to the highest bidder.
Obama stated that in would be improper to make any statement or discuss further the investigation into the matter. As president-elect, Obama was not privvy to the federal governments approval of a wire tap to the Illinois governor.

The investigation team has made no mention of Barack Obama in the matter but the investigation is still ongoing.

Gov. Rod Blagojevich and his chief of staff John Harris were arrested today by FBI agents on federal corruption charges.

The investigation centers on Governor Blagojevich and his chief of staff, John Harris, who were both accused of a wide-ranging criminal conspiracy that included Blagojevich conspiring to sell or trade the Senate seat left vacant by President-elect Barack Obama in exchange for financial benefits for the governor and his wife. The governor was also accused of obtaining campaign contributions in exchange for other official actions.

On the issue of the U.S. Senate selection, federal prosecutors alleged Blagojevich sought appointment as Secretary of Health and Human Services in the new Obama administration, or a lucrative job with a union in exchange for appointing a union-preferred candidate.

Obama Senate Seat Up For Sale - Illinois Governor Arrested

2008-12-09T08:12:00.000-08:00

According to Reuters, Illinois Gov. Rod Blagojevich was arrested on criminal charges on Tuesday, including trying to sell the U.S. Senate seat being vacated by fellow Democrat President-elect Barack Obama, federal prosecutors said.
Blagojevich was also accused of threatening to withhold substantial state assistance to the Tribune Company in connection with the sale of the Chicago Cubs' baseball home Wrigley Field "to induce the firing of Chicago Tribune editorial board members sharply critical" of him.
The 51-year-old Blagojevich and his chief of staff, John Harris, were charged in a 76-page federal indictment with conspiracy to commit mail and wire fraud and solicitation of bribery. Both were taken into custody at their homes in Chicago.
In Illinois, the governor selects a successor when there is a mid-term Senate vacancy. Obama resigned from the Senate soon after winning the November 4 presidential election.
Blagojevich allegedly was caught on court-authorized wiretaps during the last month.
He was seeking a "substantial" salary for himself at a nonprofit foundation or union affiliated organization, a spot on a corporate board for his wife, promises of campaign cash, as well as a cabinet post or ambassadorship in exchange for his Senate choice, the FBI affidavit added.
Blagojevich, in his second term, is the latest in a string of Illinois governors to run afoul of the law. His immediate predecessor. George Ryan, is in jail following a federal corruption conviction.
"Many, including myself, thought that the recent conviction of a former governor would usher in a new era of honesty and reform in Illinois politics," Robert D. Grant, Special Agent-in-Charge of the Chicago Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, said in a statement.
"Clearly, the charges announced today reveal that the office of the Governor has become nothing more than a vehicle for self-enrichment, unrestricted by party affiliation and taking Illinois politics to a new low."
Grant and Patrick Fitzgerald, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois, will detail the charges in a news conference at 11 a.m. CDT (1700 GMT) in Chicago.
(Reporting by Michael Conlon and James Vicini, Kyle Peterson and Karen Pierog in Chicago, Editing by Jackie Frank)

Obama's Big 4 Reform Priorities

2008-12-08T19:36:00.000-08:00

on December 6, 2008 Barack Obama outlined the major parts of his plan to revitalize the American economy. This four point plan calls for (1) a massive effort to make public buildings more energy-efficient (2) the single largest new investment in our national infrastructure since the creation of the federal highway system in the 1950s (3) the most sweeping effort to modernize and upgrade school buildings that this country has ever seen and (4) a program to "renew our information highway" by increasing broadband adoption, by schools and hospitals in particular.
The President-elect's priorities make perfect sense. The immediate needs are to be build up emergency measures to stabilize the economy followed by a long term plan to address public investment aimed at accelerating U.S. economic growth. Accelerating the long-term growth of the productive economy will get us out of the recession faster, refill depleted federal, state and local government funding for public services sooner, and permit larger investments to be made with the same or lower tax rates in areas of needed reform like social insurance, energy and education. And the more rapidly the economy grows, the more quickly the colossal but necessary deficits the U.S. is now running up will melt away.
Obama's plan is a similar one used to help the United States out of the Great Depression in the early 1930s. Investment in public projects will create new jobs, inject capital and build up the decaying infrastructure across the country. In addition, by provding state and local authorities monies will stimulate growth and build confidence in his plan.
Obama, however, is looking beyond a recovery that is still uncomfortably far off to the long-run health of the American economy. Public and private investment in energy efficiency, infrastructure, schools and the information highway are essential for sustainable economic growth and international competitiveness. Since the 1960s, however, these public goods have been underfunded, and absent structural reforms of the way Congress does the nation's business these priorities probably will continue to be underfunded. Devoting short-term stimulus spending to infrastructure and other needs will not address the chronic problem of underfunding.
By providing the funds to municipalities, he puts the states, counties and cities the power to jumpstart the economy. You see, the federal government lacks the capability to borrow money to issue bonds for capital improvement projects that Obama sees as priorities of infrastructure reform.
States, counties and cities have been issuing debt to pay for capital projects for generations. It is time that our antiquated federal government be reformed, to give it the same capability. Doing so need not drive up deficit spending for noncapital projects. Indeed, most states combine bond-based debt financing for capital projects with balanced-budget rules for other spending. If deficit hawks complain, they should be asked whether they paid for their cars and houses upfront in cash.
One result of the federal government's archaic lack of special-purpose bonding capability has been underinvestment in public goods like infrastructure, which have large upfront costs but which spread their benefits slowly over time. For decades, Congress has sacrificed infrastructure spending to other short-term goals. That is no surprise. State governments would probably underinvest in infrastructure and economic development as well, if they lacked the capability to issue municipal bonds.
Obama knows this. That is why, during the campaign, he called for the creation of a national infrastructure bank: "For our economy, our safety, and our workers, we have to rebuild America. I'm proposing a National Infrastructure Reinvestment Bank that will invest $60 billion over ten years. This investment will multiply into almost half a trillion dollars of additional infrastructure spending and generate nearly two million new jobs -- many of them in the construction industry that's been hard hit by this housing crisis. The repairs will be determined not by politics, but by what will maximize our safety and homeland security; what will keep our environment clean and our economy strong. And we'll fund this bank by ending this war in Iraq. It's time to stop spending billions of dollars a week trying to put Iraq back together and start spending the money on putting America back together instead."
As Obama recognized, a national infrastructure bank would accomplish two goals at once. It would rely on bonds to provide adequate funding for major infrastructure investments without requiring massive initial payments. And an independent, nonpartisan national infrastructure bank, by choosing projects on the basis of merit, could achieve Obama's insistence that decisions should "be determined not by politics, but by what will maximize our safety and homeland security, what will keep our environment clean and our economy strong." The president-elect repeated his determination to remove pork-barrel politics from public investment decisions in an interview on Dec. 7 on NBC's "Meet the Press": "What we need to do is examine: What are the projects where we're going to get the most bang for the buck? How are we going to make sure taxpayers are protected? You know, the days of just pork coming out of Congress as a strategy, those days are over."
In order to achieve the economic goals the president-elect has announced, the new administration and Congress should act rapidly to create a national infrastructure bank. Sens. Dodd and Hagel and Reps. DeLauro and Frank, among others, have introduced bills with that end in mind. Congressional Democrats and thoughtful Republicans quickly should settle on a single national infrastructure bank bill and send it to the new president's desk for his signature. Once it is up and running, the national infrastructure bank can ensure that funding for long-term public investment in transportation, communications and sanitation will not collapse, once the present economic emergency is over. Creating an independent national infrastructure bank with the power to issue the equivalent of municipal bonds is the single most important strategic reform that President Obama and the Democratic Congress can undertake in the first hundred days.
Barack Obama is the first one to admit that things will get worse before they get better. But is initiative to put his team together now, instead of waiting until early 2009, shows his determination to lead the country to prosperity into the next decade.

LOOKS LIKE OBAMA

2008-11-04T15:06:00.000-08:00

According to key election polls, Barack Obama has taken the lead in the presidential race. One poll calls it a "significant lead:" for Obama over John McCain with 49% of the vote. When the remaining undecided votes are counted in, the Pew Research Center estimates that the Democrat will have 52% of the vote. An interesting fact about the survey is that those who voted early were more likely to vote for Obama.

The Quinnipiac Poll is reporting Obama has a strong lead in key swing states, specifically, in Ohio (by 7 percent points and in Pennsylvania by 10 percentage points. This is important because since 1960, no president has been elected president without carrying the biggest swing states.

In another election survey, it is estimated that $400 million in political contributions has been poured into the campaign from special interest groups. The survey suggests that the U.S. political process needs repair.

Yeah! No kidding!

Obama Wins - If You Apply the Redskin Rule

2008-11-04T07:49:00.000-08:00

Hey, it looks like Obama will win the election. That's if you apply the "Redskin Rule".

The "Redskin Rule" is using the Washington Redskins to predict the winner of the election. It's accuracy is between 94 and 100 percent, depending how you apply it. The rule is based on the results of the Washington Redskins last home game before an election. If the Redskins win, the incumbent political party remains in office. But if the visiting teamd wins, then the incumbent loses the election. It has worked 16 out 17 times.

The Redskins lost to the Pittsburgh Steelers last night in Washington 23-6.

The "Redskin Rule" was first used in 2000 by the executive vice president of the Elias Sports Bureaus, Steve Hirdt. Steve was looking for some juicy tidbits for a game between the Redskins and the Tennessee Titans. After scouring the NFL statistics all the way back to 1940 he came up with this gem.

There is one caveat to this rule.

In 2004, the Redskins lost to the Packers 28-14, suggesting Bush should have lost to John Kerry. Hirdt changed the way the rule is applied to have it refer to the previous winner of the popular vote, not the electoral vote.

“Scientists are always studying data and coming up with different conclusions,” Hirdt rationalized. “After 2004, because Al Gore won the popular vote in 2000, we tweaked the precision of how the Redskins Rule is applied.”

What a great statistic!

WHY OBAMA

2008-11-04T03:22:00.000-08:00

It's great to see the unprecedented number of American that are predicted to turn out at the polls. It's awesome to see younger Americans taking interest in what is going on in America.

There is no secret why this is happening? Over the past 8 years we have seen big business and their lobbying efforts controlling what goes on. And what has been the result? Middle Class Americans getting poorer, the U.S. invading countries and spending on those military efforts that could otherwise go to our health care system.

Can you blame the economic downturn on the past administration? Maybe not all of it, but they do share the blame by not protecting small businesses and doing nothing to stop jobs from going overseas. George Bush is an oilman and Dick Cheney is a former top Haliberton executive. Where do you think their interests lie?

John McCain has been in government for a long time. He is a true American war hero. But that is no reason to vote for him.

Barack Obama, on the other hand, can relate to middle class America. He lived it! I feel that with Obama, the focus of government will shift back to the homeland. I believe that a new fresh government will open channels of discussion with countries like Venezuela and Cuba. Both who don't pose a threat but for some reason, maybe it's ego, our leaders have labeled as unacceptable.

I think Barack Obama will change the "psychology" of America and help get us back to where we once were. Not necessarily on the international front - but here at home.

I have voted Republican in the last 5 elections, but I'm voting not for a Democrat, but for a leader I feel is sincere, understands what is going on, won't be influenced greatly by lobbyists and stands for what makes America great - that the land of the free opens opportunities for ANYONE, if you work hard at it and you believe in a cause.

Barack Obama Grandmother Dies At 86

2008-11-03T14:11:00.000-08:00

Barack Obama's grandmother died today in his native Hawaii. He recently suspended his presidential campaign for part of two days this week to return to be by her side.

Madelyn Dunham, 86, was released from a hospital late last week and returned to her home in Honolulu with a health condition the aide described as "very serious." She died earlier today.

Barack Obama's credits his grandmother for trailblazing his effort to become the nation's first black president.

Madelyn blazed her own feminist trail in Hawaii banking circles in the late 1960s and early 1970s and rose to become one of the Bank of Hawaii's first female vice presidents.

As the Illinois Democrat recounted in his memoirs, Dunham, his maternal grandmother, acted in many ways as a surrogate parent.

Obama Campaign Director Dies of Massive Heart Attack

2008-11-03T13:14:00.000-08:00

Terrence Tolbert, Obama's Nevada Campaign Director, passed away Sunday at the age of 44 of a massive heart attack. Terrence was a top official who was responsible for lobbying efforts for the city of New York's Department of Education.

Here are official statements from the mayor of New York, Michael Bloomberg and Chancellor of New York Department of Education Joel Klein.

STATEMENTS BY MAYOR MICHAEL R. BLOOMBERG AND SCHOOLS CHANCELLOR JOEL I. KLEIN ON THE DEATH OF TERENCE D. TOLBERT

Statement from Mayor Bloomberg

“Last night, Terence Tolbert, who was a valued member of our Administration and had become a personal friend of mine, had a massive heart attack in Nevada where he was working on Senator Obama’s campaign. Terence was not only somebody who was one of the most likeable people in the world, he was one of the most hardworking people in the world. He had great judgment and a great feel for people, and this really is a great tragedy. Our Administration will miss him, the City will miss him, the country will miss him, and all of our prayers go out to his wife Freida and his mother Carolyn. We’ll announce the funeral arrangements when they’re made, but this really is a tragedy and it puts things in perspective. One of the nice things about November 4th was going to be that Terence would come back to us. Now, sadly, he is never going to come back – but we will never forget him.”

Statement from Chancellor Klein

“Terence Tolbert was a leader, mentor, and friend to people throughout our Department and this entire City. Working for the City’s children here, in Albany, and in Washington, D.C. as Executive Director of Inter-Governmental Relations, he was a source of inspiration, a person who fought hard for others who were less fortunate and a person who believed deeply that government can and must play a constructive role in improving the lives of its citizens. His warmth and humor permeated our offices. His untimely passing will be felt personally and deeply by so many of us. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and loved ones.”

Republican Refused Halloween Candy To Obama Supporter Children

2008-11-02T05:37:00.000-08:00

Just when you thought you've heard it all on the political scene, we sink to new lows. According to the Associated Press, on Halloween, a woman in Michigan refused Halloween candy to the children whose parents support democratic presidential candidate Barack Obama.

Shirley Nagel of Grosse Pointe Farms, Michigan, was very selective on who see would give Halloween candy to. She would only give candy to the children whose parents were going to vote for Obama. Some Trick-or-Treat!

Fox 2 News says a sign posted outside Nagel's house, about 12 miles west of Detroit, served notice to all trick-or-treaters. It read: "No handouts for Obama supporters, liars, tricksters or kids of supporters."

Nagel tells WJBK-TV that "Obama's scary." When asked about children who'd been turned away empty-handed and crying, she said: "Oh well. Everybody has a choice."

According to unconfirmed sources Shirley Nagel is a republican delegate and a former teacher.

Let's face it. This is America and she has her right to do that - regardless of how distasteful and hateful it may be. It could have been worse - she could have given out Ex-Lax disguished as chocolate, or done something really dangerous.

God Bless the United States of America - even the Democrats!

Barack Obama Aunt Zeituni An Illegal Alien

2008-11-01T08:52:00.000-07:00

According to the Associated Press, an aunt of presidental candidate, Barack Obama is living in the United States illegally.

The AP says she remain in government housing in Boston, even though an immigration judge denied her request for asylum four years ago.

Zeituni Onyango's refusal to leave the country would be an administrative violation, not a criminal matter.

CNN has not been able to independently verify her immigration status.

The Obama campaign has not yet responded to a CNN request for comment.

Obama called the woman "Aunt Zeituni" in his memoirs, where he described her as the first Kenyan relative he encountered on his visit to his father's home country.

Onyango has donated at least five times to Obama's campaign in July and September, listing her occupation as a "volunteer resident health advocate." Federal campaign finance records indicate several contributions in amounts of $5 and $25.

Although you can't hold Barack Obama responsible, I'm sure he was aware of the situation. It makes you wonder why he hasn't done anything about it or discussed it.

Powell and Rubenstein - Republican Obamas

2008-10-31T15:23:00.000-07:00

Why is it that some very prominent and well respected Republicans are either outright supporting Barack Obama, or questioning John McCain's vice presidential choice?

Former Reagan chief of staff Ken Duberstein told CNN's Fareed Zakaria this week he intends to vote for Democrat Barack Obama on Tuesday. He said he was influenced by Colin Powell, another influential Republic supporting Barack Obama.

"Well let's put it this way - I think Colin Powell's decision is in fact the good housekeeping seal of approval on Barack Obama."

And according to Yahoo News, a former secretary of state and supporter of John McCain, Lawrence Eagleburger, says that McCain's running mate, Sarah Palin, isn't up to the task of taking over the presidency in a crisis but could become "adequate" if not "a genius in the job."

Then again, added Lawrence Eagleburger, several other vice presidents were also not ready. And he said he was confident that Palin, Alaska's governor, was tough enough if called to serve.

Finally, according to CNN, former Secretary of State Colin Powell announced Sunday that he will be voting for Sen. Barack Obama, citing the Democrat's "ability to inspire" and the "inclusive nature of his campaign."
Former Secretary of State Colin Powell says he is voting for Barack Obama.

"I think he is a transformational figure, he is a new generation coming onto the world stage, onto the American stage, and for that reason I'll be voting for Sen. Barack Obama," Powell said on NBC's "Meet the Press."

Powell said he was concerned about what he characterized as a recent negative turn of Republican candidate Sen. John McCain's campaign, such as the campaign's attempts to tie Obama to former 1960s radical Bill Ayers.

"I think that's inappropriate. I understand what politics is about -- I know how you can go after one another, and that's good. But I think this goes too far, and I think it has made the McCain campaign look a little narrow. It's not what the American people are looking for," he said.

It truly amazes me that these well known, life time Republicans, are crossing party lines and voting for Obama. Is there something going on in the Republican party? There has to be something going on!

Republican For Obama - Ken Rubenstein

2008-10-31T14:51:00.000-07:00

Former Reagan chief of staff Ken Duberstein told CNN's Fareed Zakaria this week he intends to vote for Democrat Barack Obama on Tuesday. He said he was influenced by Colin Powell, another influential Republic supporting Barack Obama.

"Well let's put it this way - I think Colin Powell's decision is in fact the good housekeeping seal of approval on Barack Obama."

In the interview. Duberstein spoke about his final days in the Reagan White House. The Reagan official, along with Clinton Secretary of State Madeleine Albright and Carter National Security Advisor Zbigniew Brzezinski, also discussed the transition process to a new administration.

In a separate interview with MSNBC’s Norah O’Donnell, Ken reconfirmed his support for Barack Obama in Tuesday's election. He agreed with former Secretary of State Lawrence Eagleburger’s comments that Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin is unprepared to assume the presidency.

“I think [Palin] has very much undermined it, the whole question of McCain’s judgment. What Most Americans, I think, realize is that you don’t offer a job, let alone the vice presidency, to a person after one job interview. Even at McDonald’s, you’re interviewed three times before you’re given a job.

So I think the whole question of whether or not she is fit, not to be vice president, but to be president in an emergency on day one, people have resoundingly said, ‘Don’t think so,” including Larry Eagleburger, one of the strong supporters of John McCain. Larry, in a fit of reason, said ‘No, she’s not ready to serve.’”

It is really uncharacteristic for such high profile and prominent Reublicans to cross party lines and vote for a Democrat. Such steps can mean only one thing - Obama is the man for the job.

Obama-mercial - Obama Infomercial Sells Itself

2008-10-29T19:34:00.000-07:00

What an amazing night for Barack Obama! His prime-time infomercial tonight could be considered the final dagger for John McCain. Barack has just an amazing way to take the spotlight and connect with his audience. He certainly has put the pressure on McCain. And with only a few days, John may not be able to overcome it.

I wonder what McCain was thinking this evening - and what he could possibly due to shift the momentum in his favor.

It's unfortunate that how you look, how you speak and how you dress are what many Americans deem important in deciding who to vote for. It's obvious that Obama has the "look", and has the money to capture America, and may very well become the next President of the United States of America.

Barack's speech was targeted at middle and lower class Americans. He pulled on the emotional strings of Americans who are being adversely effected by the economy, and the decisions made by the current Administration. Obama's infomercial was heavy in references to main stream. Obama told stories of "main street" Americans, and of what they’re confronting, and discussed the challenges people are facing and what we should do in terms of solutions.

Barack Obama told his own personal story, about his mom and her fight with breast cancer, and the difficulties she had with her insurance company. The reference was aimed to help viewers understand why his health care reform program is what it is.

John McCain, the odd man out tonight, seized the opportunity to say that this infomercial was excessive. He pointed out the fact that the infomercial bumped back the World Series on Fox by 15 minutes. “No one will delay the World Series with an infomercial when I’m president,” he said, in Hershey, Pa.

But the Obama camp fired back stating that many people have over 150 channels and therefore, plenty of other choices - or could play a video game instead.

It looks like Obama really made an impression tonight. He came across as a candidate who can relate to middle class Americans, and the trials and tribulations they are encountering in these economic times.

There are still a few days left, but if public perception is what it take to get elected - Obama won big time. But one note about his opponent, John McCain - he is a true American hero. One would fought for our freedom, and suffered for all of us.

He will always be a winner and an American hero - regardless of the outcome of the election.

Tax Cut Facts -Key Facts About Obama And Taxes

2008-10-28T06:57:00.000-07:00

There is one week left before Americans go to the polls and vote for the next president of the United States of America. According to top political survey polls, Barack Obama has increased his lead by 8 to 10 percentage points.

Are you still on the fence about who to vote for? Will the candidates tax plans influence your vote? Well, here is a quick reference that clears up any questions you may have about Senator Barack Obama's tax cut plan.

Married couples making $75,000, with 2 children, with one of them in college would be entitled to a tax cut of:

$3,700, this amount includes...

$1,000 Making Work Pay Tax Credit
$ 500 universal mortgage credit
$4,000 college credit

Married couples making $90,000 would be entitled to

$1,000

Single parents, making $40,000, with 2 young children and childcare expenses would be entitled to:

$2,100, this amount includes...

$500 making work pay tax credit
$500 universal mortgage credit
$1,100 from Obama expansion of the child care tax credit

A 70 year old widow making $35,000 would be entitled to:

$1,900

These calculations are based on IRS Statistics of Income. The good news is that these tax savings are actually conservative, because they do not account for other tax credits and incentives that you may qualify for, specifically:

$500 in savings from expanded Savers Credit
$2500 in savings per family from the Obama healthcare plan

Find out more of the Obama Tax Plan.

Obama Campaign: Change We Need

2008-10-28T02:51:00.000-07:00

Barack Obama is spending big, big bucks on his campaign. He has raised $660 million dollars so are. That's $1 million for every day he has been in the campaign. A significant amount of money is coming out of California. In fact, many citizens are added to his campaign fund by setting up automatic monthly deductions from their credit cards.

This is raising some eyebrows in Washington because he may be getting campaign donations from unknown sources - which is a no-no. In fact, it may be investigated by government oversight committees.

Obama is spreading the word of "Change is Needed" by making campaign appearances and running ad after ad after ad. In fact, he is outpacing McCain ads by a margin of 4 to 1.

According to the McCain camp, when the presidential race started, both agreed on a cap on the money each would spend on the campaign. Obama supporters said there were no promise.

With 7 days left before election day, McCain is estimated to be behind by 7 percentage points.

McCain still has $36 million dollars to spend in the last week of the campaign.

Obama - twice that!

Obama claims "Change we Need" and it just might happen!