Brink

 

Press Office of Senator Jean Broodlenk (D-Ilinois)

Madam President,

 

One of my distinguished colleagues earlier said "The death penalty is an essential tool for enforcing justice, especially when it comes to the most violent and diabolical criminals in our society."

 

Maybe that is the case in my distinguished colleague's home state. However, that is not the case in mine. In my home state, the death penalty has stood repealed since 2011. In 2018, former Governor Rauner wanted to bring back the death penalty for specifically the case we are debating here. However, the state legislature was uninterested in fulfilling his wishes and he was soon defeated for re-election. I think it shows that the people of my state and their democratically elected representatives are against the death penalty. I cannot come to Washington in good conscious and ignore the wishes of the people of my state. I will second the motion to recommit this bill by my colleague from North Carolina.

 

I yield the floor.

Not sure I'll have a lot of time for this but figured I'd give it a try since I have had it pending for a while

 

Full Name: Jean Broodlenk

Gender: Female

Date of Birth: July 4, 1973 (turning 50 years old in 2023)

Place of Birth: Lombard, IL

Place of Residence: Mount Zion, IL

Religion: Non-Denominational Christian

Sexual Orientation: Non-LGBTQ+

Political Party: Democrat

Caucus: Progressive

 

Avatar: Lizzie Pannill Fletcher

 

Family History:

Father: Abel Haynes

Mother: Kristina Haynes

Siblings: Austin

Husband: Carl

Children: Shana, Michael, Helen

 

Educational History:

B.S. in Marketing, University of Illinois at Chicago (1991-1995)

 

Occupational History:

Retail Clerk, Kroger, Lombard IL (1991-1994)

Marketing Assistant Entry Level, Imminent, Lombard IL (1995-2001)

Marketing Director, Mount Zion Chamber of Commerce, Mount Zion IL (2001-2004)

Executive Director, Mount Zion Chamber of Commerce, Mount Zion IL (2004-2012)

US Representative from Illinois’s 13th Congressional District (2013-2023)

Chairwoman of the US House Energy Subcommittee on Health (2019-2023)

US Senator from Illinois, Class 3 (2023-present)

 

Jean Broodlenk was born on July 4, 1973, in Lombard, IL, to Abel and Kristina Haynes. She grew up with her younger brother, Austin, in a non-denominational Christian family. Jean graduated with a Bachelor’s of Science degree in Marketing from the University of Illinois at Chicago in 1995. 

 

Jean began her career as a retail clerk at Kroger in Lombard, IL, while still in college. After graduation, she worked as a Marketing Assistant Entry Level at Imminent in Lombard, IL, from 1995 to 2001. While in this role, she developed and drove sales through marketing events to increase client brand awareness as well as track and analyze impact on sales as a result of launched promotions. 

 

In 2001, wanting new scenery, she became the Marketing Director at the Mount Zion Chamber of Commerce in Mount Zion, IL. Three years later, she was promoted to Executive Director, a position she held until 2012.

 

Jean always was interested in politics since college, when the 1992 Democratic primary for President made a stop in Illinois and nearby Michigan. These primaries were considered the first regionally neutral territory in the race as Governor Bill Clinton, Senator Paul Tsongas, and former Governor Edmund Brown Jr. battled it out. She did not pursue those political interests until 2013.

 

In 2013, Jean entered politics and ran for the US House of Representatives from Illinois's 13th Congressional District as a Democrat. She won the election and served in the House for four years from 2013 to 2017. In 2022, Jean was elected as a US Senator from Illinois, Class 3, and has been serving in that capacity ever since.

 

Jean is married to Carl, and they have three children, Shana, Michael, and Helen. She met and married Carl soon after moving to Mount Zion. In her free time, Jean enjoys reading and spending time with her family.

 

As a progressive, Jean is passionate about promoting policies that benefit working-class families, such as Medicare for All, affordable housing, and free public education. She also advocates for the protection of the environment and social justice issues, such as ending mass incarceration and immigration reform.

 

Jean's political career has been marked by her dedication to serving her constituents and fighting for the causes she believes in. Her background in marketing has also served her well in communicating her message to the public to achieve policy goals on behalf of the people of Illinois.

 

Points Breakdown:

Female, 5 points

Age, 0 points

Sexuality, 0 points (since I have 3, gonna go with the safer option)

Race/Ancestry, 0 points

Religion, 15 points

Education, 0 points

Family History, 10 points

Career Information, 2 points

Political Experience, 19 points

TOTAL: 50

 

Key Votes:

113th Congress, Nuclear Option, was not a Senator so would not have had a vote

114th Congress, Keystone XL Pipeline Approval Act, Nay

115th Congress, Economic Growth, Regulatory Relief, and Consumer Protection Act, Nay

116th Congress, United States–Mexico–Canada Agreement (USMCA), Nay

On 5/15/2023 at 12:57 AM, alaskancrabpuffs21 said:

McKinley owns a home in Des Moines Iowa the estimated cost 600,000 dollars

 

Hope you get a lot of land with that for $600,000

@Sheridan is officially RNC Chair.

11 hours ago, Steven Andrews said:

Ken Cuccinelli did something similar.  It helps qualify you for the patent bar (which requires a science-y degree).

 

Good to know, didn't realize that helps you qualify to do patents.

2 hours ago, gregggeth said:

 

Name:   Grant Ramsey

Gender: Male (0 points)

Race: White (0 points)

Date of Birth:  January 15, 1956 (65 years old at beginning of 2021)

Place of Birth:  Beaufort, SC

Current Place of Residence:  Columbia, SC

Political Party:  Republican

Faction:    Republican Study Group

State and Seat:  South Carolina, Class 2
Avatar:  MIke Leach

 

Familial background:

Family background:

Parents: Father: Grant Sr Mother: Agnes (Middle Class - 0 points)

Religion: Presbyterian (0 points)

Spouse: Victoria Belair (maiden name)

Children:  Grant III, Patrick, Melissa, Staci

 

Education:

University of South Carolina: Bachelor's Degree in Communication (Call of 1972) 0 points

Awards

SEC College Football Coach of the Year (1996) - 15 points

Career Information - Football Coach (15 points)

Head Football Coach, University of Louisiana-Monroe (2010-2013)
Head Football Coach, University of South Carolina (1999-2008)

Head Football Coach, University of Tennessee at Chatanooga (1994-1999)

Defensive Coordinator, University of South Carolina (1990-1994)
Defensive Coordinator, Arkansas State University (1985-1990)

Assistant Coach for Linebackers, University of South Carolina (1980-1985)
Head Coach, Spring Valley (SC) High School (1976-1980)

Linebacker, New York Jets (1973,1974)
Linebacker, Chicago Bears (1975)

Four-year Letterman as a Linebacker at the University of South Carolina, Second Team All-American in 1972 (6th Round Draft Pick)

 

TV Host (15 points)

Co-Host, SEC Today - 2009

 

Author (10 points) 
"Grit and Iron: Leadership Starts at the End Zone" (10 points)

Political Experience (5 points)

2014 - US Senator, South Carolina

Key Votes - 
Border Security, Economic Opportunity, and Immigration Modernization Act of 2013 - NAY
USA FREEDOM Act - AYE
Tax Cuts and Jobs Act - AYE
Trump Impeachment Articles I and II - NAY

BIO
Born in Beaufort, SC, Coach Grant was a local football hero who was a four-year letterman at the University of South Carolina as an outside linebacker. He was named Second Team All-SEC his senior year, in which the Gamecocks finished 18th in the country and lost in the Bluebonnet Bowl. A sixth-round draft pick for the New York Jets, Coach Grant failed to catch on as a pro player. After a successful run as a high school football coach, Coach Grant became as assistant football coach and worked his way up until he became the head coach for the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga Mocs, bringing them to the D-1AA (now FCS) semi-finals.

 

He eventually landed his dream job as the head coach of the University of South Carolina Gamecocks. Coach Grant brought the Gamecocks into a consistent Top 25 team, where he won back-to-back Gator Bowls along with multiple Peach Bowl appearances. However, a lack of success in making it to a BCS bowl, along with recruiting violations, led to Coach Grant's dismissal. After a brief attempt at a comeback as the head coach at University of Louisiana-Monroe (4-8 records both years), Coach Grant decided to run for Senate back at his home state and has since served dutifully.

 

 

 

Approved! RIP Mike Leach

23 hours ago, micgat23 said:

U.S. Senator Scott M. Russell, Jr. (R-MT)

 

Name: Scott Michael Russell, Jr.

Seat: Montana Class II Seat

Party: Republican

Avatar: Steve Daines

Major Caucus: Republican Tuesday Group

 

Gender: Male (0 Pts) 

Date of Birth: May 3, 1966 (55 in 2021) [0 points]

Place of Birth: Billings, Yellowstone County, MT

Place of Residence: Billings, Yellowstone County, MT

Sexuality: Straight, married with 3 children [0 points]

Spouse: Catherine Margaret Russell (nee Osborne) (b. 1968 m. 1989)

Children:

• Scott Michael Russell III (b. 1992)
• Charissa Clara Russell (b. 1995)
• Christopher Edward Russell (b. 1998)

Family History: Middle Class [0 points]

Race: White [0 points]

Religion: Evangelical Lutheran Church in America [Mainline Protestant; 0 points]

Educational History:

• BS in Chemical Engineering, Montana State University (1984-1988) [Public University; 0 points]
• Doctor in Jurisprudence, Lewis & Clark College (1988-1990) [Masters Degree inld. JD; 10 Points]
   

Political History:

• Junior Attorney, Mountain State Attorneys (1990-1992) [Lawyer, 10 Points]
• Senior Attorney, Mountain State Attorneys (1992-1995) [Lawyer, 10 Points]
• Billings City Attorney, City of Billings (1995-1999) [Lawyer, 10 Points]
• Mayor of the City of Billings (2000-2012) [Mayor, >100,000, 60 Points]
• State Senator, State of Montana, 23rd Senate District (2013-2020) [4 Points]
• United States Senator for the State of North Dakota (2021-Present) [0 Points]

 

 

Total Points: 100/100

 

Narrative Biography:

WIP

 

Signature

By the way, you don't have to count the points for every job you take in the same field. Especially so if it is for the same employer. Nonetheless, I'd just like a little clarification on going from a BS in Chemical Engineering to a Juris Doctorate. Besides that, everything looks good.

Final #tweet-deck Recap of Reset

 

CPAC 2009

 

Peter Doocy
Here on the floor of CPAC. After Sen. Butcher condemned the Cash for Clunkers program, an attendee near me yelled "I'll leave treadmarks on Ellis' liberal ass if he tries taking away my '03 F-150."

George Will
The wildly popular reception of Senator Fitzgerald's remarks should not be ignored. He said what many are feeling, even if his ideas may be a bit misguided to some including yours truly.

 

David Brooks
Republicans including Fitzgerald and Storm taking direct aim at corporate outsourcing and tying it to the auto bailouts. Interesting.

 

Ted Nugent
Eradicate poverty?!? That's socialism you clown. @HiramStorm

 

Jennifer Rubin
Very inspiring speech by Senator Storm. He is a trailblazer.

 

Mike Huckabee
A beautiful speech by Senator Trueblood. I'm wiping tears away from my eyes.

 

Peter Doocy
A woman in the front row yells "Yes! Come Lord Jesus!" in response to Trueblood declaring his opposition to same-sex marriage.

 

Dan Savage
Trueblood is a homophobe.

Fox News
BREAKING Fitzgerald wins CPAC 2009 straw poll, Storm and Trueblood tie for 2nd.

 

Bill Burr
Well, I see the Republican Party is finally back to being racist again. It was a nice run though for a couple of months.

 

Franklin Graham
Senator Brian Trueblood is a true champion of God and holiness.

 

James Carville
Now's that what I call a Democratic address. Farmers and working class first.

 

Sean Hannity
@JamesCarville Then why did your sex addict boss Clinton cut funding for farmers? Unamerican!

 

Rush Limbaugh
All this talk about farmers when most of these damn Democrats have never seen a cornstalk in their life! Commie bastards.

 

CONFLICT IN SOUTH INDIA AND SRI LANKA (Reuters World Article) (BBC World News Article)

 

Reuters World
Around 70 armed Tamil Nadu Liberation Front fighters stormed the town hall of the 100,000 people city of Nagapattinam and arrested the mayor. Following a firefight which forced the arriving police officers to withdraw, the fighters declared the city to be part of the free state of Tamil Nadu.

BBC World News
UN rescue workers have begun their work in the completely destroyed city of Pulmoddai, with thus far 460 people being uncovered from the heavy rubble, some with execution style wounds.

 

BBC World News
BBC is taking an in-depth look at the recent events in both Sri Lanka and Tamil Nadu in India, where the newly reformed Tamil Nadu Liberation Front is in the early stages of becoming an organized fighting force for a free Tamil state.

 

Dainik Jagran
Indian security forces have been put on high alert as the TNFL announced the occupation of about a dozen villages and a small city in Tamil Nadu.

 

NETROOTS 2009

Jonathan Swan
Here on the floor of Netroots. I just saw two gay men kiss during Senator Iyal's remarks. "Iyal is our homegirl! and queen" said one. 

 

Rick Santorum
Vile displays of homosexuality on television. What next? Man and dogs making out at the DNC in four years?

 

Dan Savage
We're not going anywhere Ricky. Get used to us.

 

Michael Moore
Senator Green finally gets the discussion focused on healthcare. A public option is the absolute BARE MINIMUM we should expect on healthcare reform. Glad she's at least advocating that.

 

Sean Hannity
I don't want the government getting involved in people's healthcare. Unamerican!

 

Mark Levin
This is dangerous anti-man rhetoric by Constance Kane. Pretty soon they'll be burning bras on the lawn of the White House.

 

Hillary Clinton
Amen sister.

 

COMPANIES ANNOUNCE BANKRUPTCY

 

The Wall Street Journal
BREAKING Toys R Us and Sears both file for bankruptcy.

 

Jake Tapper
Stunning news. Two major retail giants go under as the ongoing recession tears down two landmark corporations in the United States.

 

MarketWatch
Walgreens, the pharmacy and convenience giant, is at growing risk of bankruptcy as stock price falls below $12 per share.

 

NEWEST ECONOMIC INDICATORS

 

MarketWatch
Dow Jones falls 455 points, now at 6958.45

Chris Wallace
Fears continue to rise we could be staring down the barrel of not only a recession, but another depression. Few signs of a major stimulus deal being reached on Capitol Hill.

Fox News
BREAKING Alan Greenspan warns without some sort of measured stimulus action, global economy could enter prolonged Depression by the fall.

 

Timothy Naftali
A recession can be reversed in a matter of months with effective policy. Depressions? That can take a decade or more. Let's not forget America did not fully lift itself out of the Great Depression until the industrialization of the US economy with the demands of WWII.

CNN
Depression 2.0? If Congress and POTUS fail to act, a 2nd Depression likely becomes inevitable. A new study from Brookings estimates it would take eight years and upwards of $12 trillion to dig the U.S. economy out of such a doomsday scenario.

 

Timothy Naftali
It is worthwhile noting that a 2nd Depression would diminish the reputation and power of the U.S. abroad. As the world's military and economic superpower, trust and respect in America would be severely compromised. Especially considering how avoidable this all would have been.

 

USA Today
Attempted bank robberies are on the rise with reported incidents up 53% since last year.

 

The Wall Street Journal
BREAKING Panel of economists warn unemployment could reach 15%, poverty rate double if U.S.  enters a 2nd Great Depression.

 

MarketWatch
Unemployment rises to 8.5%, up from 7.8%.

 

MYSTERIOUS VIRUS OUTBREAK IN MEXICO

 

BBC
Authorities and health experts in Tlaxcala, Mexico, are investigating a mysterious outbreak at a local hospital. Reports of severe respiratory infections and fever.

 

NEGOTIATIONS ON THE STIMULUS

 

Jonathan Swan
I am hearing that talks are tentatively scheduled to begin today on an economic relief package.

 

Rahel Solomon, CNN
Senate Minority Leader Storm, Vice President Blakesley, and others seen entering the West Wing. Negotiations underway?

MarketWatch
Dow Jones responds favorably to news of potential negotiations, rises 324 points in two hours.

 

DEATH OF SENATOR BARBARA MIKULSKI

 

Peter Doocy
DEVELOPING STORY: Ambulances outside the Dirksen Senate Office building. No word yet on why.

 

Chris Hayes
I just received word from multiple sources that Senator Barbara Mikulski collapsed while returning to her office from a committee hearing.

 

MSNBC
BREAKING Senator Barbara Mikulski has passed away at the age of 73.

 

PAKISTAN CROSSES LINE OF CONTROL IN KASHMIR (BBC World News Article) (BBC World News Article)

BBC World News
BREAKING NEWS
Pakistani troops cross LoC in Kashmir
The Pakistani Army began what seems to be a major military offensive into Indian Jammu and Kashmir region

MarketWatch
Dow plunges 700 points in response to news of LoC incursion by Pakistan.

 

The Wall Street Journal
BSE Sensex falls 20% as markets panic in India.

 

BBC World News
Pakistani troops seem to have achieved their overall goal for the first day of this renewed conflict in Kashmir, with the exception of failing to take the city of Punch where Indian troops fended off the Pakistanis' assault.

 

MISSOURI STATE SENATE PASSES CONSTITUTIONAL CARRY

St. Louis Post-Dispatch
Legislation making Missouri the next state to embrace constitutional carry has passed through the Missouri Senate and House. Governor Jay Nixon (D-MO) is weighing decision to sign or veto the law.

 

STATE PARTY LEADERSHIP ELECTIONS AROUND CORNER

 

POLITICO
Major state party leadership races occurring in the coming weeks could serve as the first major test of the various factions within the Republican and Democratic Party.
 

STIMULUS NEGOTIATION TALKS PUT ON PAUSE

The Washington Post
BREAKING: White House announces that stimulus negotiation talks are on pause.
White House does not specify why negotiation talks are on pause, outside of claiming that Republicans did not put "forward policy proposals".
Senate Minority Leader Hiram Storm says over Twitter that White House "barred my policy team from entering negotiations and from fully representing of the American people."

 

Chris Wallace
Interesting that the White House broke this via Twitter. Amazed no one decided to hold a press conference or press release to officially announce this.

 

The Washington Post
Senator Michael Cole issues press release announcing that him and Senator John Starnes were the ones who were seeking invitation into talks.
COLE: "It is unfortunate that the White House rejected more Republican voices on the negotiations for this economic rescue package."

 

Ann Compton, ABC News
We are being told that Vice President Caroline Blakesley is on her way into the Brady Press Briefing Room.

 

CNN
Watch Vice President Caroline Blakesley's press conference over pause in stimulus negotiations here: ⁠brady-press-briefing-room⁠

 

The New York Times
BREAKING: Republican sources tell the New York Times that the outline received was "much different" then the one released by Vice President Blakesley during her press conference.
*Outline received by them was

 

CNN
Senate Minority Leader Hiram Storm addresses reporters on pause in stimulus negotiations. Watch here and on CNN: ⁠senate-briefing-room⁠

 

MarketWatch
Dow Jones plunges 760 points in immediate aftermath of news of impasse, finishes the day down 431 points at 5,968.55

David Brooks
Rewatched the VP and SmL pressers. While Storm's presentation was a bit cringe, the hypocrisy of the WH is embarrassing. You complain about GOP not having ideas, yet bar allowing two of their main policy guys including Sen Starnes from participating?

 

George Will
Senator Storm sounds a bit difficult to work with. But the White House and Dems whining about Storm not having ideas while barring people he wanted to include sounds... sounds pathetic.

 

Jake Tapper
Between the two pressers, Blakesley seemed more prepared and put together. Neither party looks good in this situation.

 

Bill Burr
Hey a--holes. No one gives a flying f--- who has what job title or does the negotiating. The entire economy is on the brink. Grow up, sit down, and stop another Depression from happening.

The Onion
Local FD Chief Hosts Press Conference in front of Ongoing House Fire
"Look, we firefighters would really love to do our jobs, save the building, and rescue its occupants from burning to death. But we really don't appreciate the new sirens our colleagues in the police department chose to use when arriving on the scene. The sound is very offputting. Plus, we firefighters don't get enough credit for the work we do. We unfortunately cannot tackle this fire and save these people until the sirens are changed and we get the recognition we deserve for always bringing our hoses to the fire." 

Jonathan Swan
(1) After speaking with sources in both parties, it seems Senator Chambers did in fact stay in the room when other Republicans left negotiations...
(2) Sources also state his only comment after the departure of his colleagues was a flat decline of a tax proposal set forward by the Democrats.
(3) Whether that qualifies as "negotiating" is a subjective debate. To say the GOP is in disarray off him simply sticking around to say no is a bit of a stretch.
(4) Either way, the global economy is hurdling towards another Depression. Hopefully, any impasse created by egos can be cleared and a deal reached.

 

AL-SHABAAB TO ARRIVE IN MOGADISHU (Reuters World Article)

Reuters World
al-Shabaab is expected to arrive at Mogadishu within the next couple of days, after the forces of the Somali Transitional Government collapsed in southern Somalia.

49 minutes ago, micgat23 said:

U.S. Senator Clara Hightower-Osborne (R-ND)

 

Name: Clara Lilyrose Hightower-Osborne

Seat: North Dakota's Class 1 Senate Seat

Party: Republican

Avatar: Hiedi Heitkamp

Major Caucus: Republican Tuesday Group

 

Gender: Female (5 Pts) 

Date of Birth: May 3, 1966 (55 in 2021) [0 points]

Place of Birth: Fargo, ND

Place of Residence: Mandan, ND

Sexuality: Straight, married with 3 children [0 points]

Spouse: James Osborne (b. 1968 m. 1989)

Children:

• Charles James Osborne (b. 1992)
• Charissa Clara Osborne (b. 1995)
• Christopher Edward Osborne (b. 1998)

Family History: Middle Class [0 points]

Race: White [0 points]

Religion: Evangelical Lutheran Church in America [Mainline Protestant; 0 points]

Educational History:

• BA in American Indian Studies with a Minor in Communications, University of North Dakota (1984-1988) [Public University; 0 points]
• Doctor in Jurisprudence, Lewis & Clark College (1988-1990) [Masters Degree inld. JD; 10 Points]
   

Political History:

• City Commissioner, City of Mandan (1995- 1999) [1 Point]
• Mayor of the City of Mandan (2000-2008) [4 Points]
• State Senator, North Dakota State Senate (2008-2016) [4 Points]
• Attorney General of the State of North Dakota (2016-2018) [5 Points]
• United States Senator for the State of North Dakota (2019-Present) [0 Points]

 

 

Total Points: 29/100

Key Votes:

115th Congress 2017-2019
Republicans: Tax Cuts and Jobs Act- AYE
116th Congress 2019-2021
Republicans: Trump Impeachment Articles I and II- NAY/AYE
 

Narrative Biography:

WIP

 

Did you have an occupation between 1990 and 1995?

Archived.

1 hour ago, Brown said:

 

Name: Juan Brown
Seal: Florida (Dem)

Party: Democrat

Avatar: Matt Santos (West Wing)

Caucus: New Democrats

 

Gender: Male (0)

Age: 50 (0)

Sexuality: Straight w/3 Children (0)

Religion: Roman Catholic (0)

Race: Hispanic (5)

Education: MBA from FSU (10)

Background: Middle Class (0)

Career: CEO (30)

Former US Navy Officer (LTCmdr) (10)

 

Political Experience: 

House of Representatives 2 Terms (6)

Tampa City Council 3 Terms (9)

Mayor of Tampa 1 Term (10)

Published a Book (10)

Navy Cross Recipient (10)

 

100/100 points used

 

Bullet Point Bio (more details to come when I can)

 

-Latino guy born in FL to a middle class family

-Devout Roman Catholic, went to college and earned a BA in Business Administration

-Went to OCS and was commissioned as a Naval Officer

-Served with distinction as a US Naval Officer, earning the Navy Cross

-Retired honourably and founded a software business as one of the early leaders in digital payment processing

-Earned significant wealth through his company, and used his wealth to help local charities and veterans causes

-Elected as a City Councilman in Tampa for 3 terms, then elected Mayor for one term

-Resigned as Mayor of Tampa after being elected to the US House serving 2 terms

-Obtained the Democratic nomination for the US Senate for FL and won election, first term

 

Needing a little clarification on something: when did you receive your degree compared to your acceptance to officer candidate school?

 

 

STIMULUS NEGOTIATION COMES TO IMPASSE, WITH PAUSE ANNOUNCED

 

(Q2 2009, WASHINGTON, D.C.)--Negotiations between Democrats and Republicans on a stimulus proposal have reportedly come to a pause today. The White House announced the pause on Twitter from the @POTUS account. 

 

“We are disappointed that the GOP leadership is already choosing to walk out of negotiations without putting forward policy proposals," the tweet said. "It is our hope they resolve this quickly and can put forward a concrete set of proposals we will be able to work on and negotiate with.”

 

Senate Minority Leader Hiram Storm (R-Ohio) announced however, that the talks were put on pause due to Democrats not acting in good faith.

 

"The White House have refused to negotiate in good faith with me," Storm tweeted "They have barred my policy team from entering negotiations and from fully representing of the American people. Instead they have tried to shove policies down my throat which will give the auto giants a pass for outsourcing jobs and destroying American lives, while also advocating for policy that will strip hardworking Americans from their hours and hard earned pay."

 

Reportedly, the members of the policy team who were barred included Senators Michael Cole (R-Iowa) and John Starnes (R-Virginia).

 

"It is unfortunate that the White House rejected more Republican voices on the negotiations for this economic rescue package," Cole told reporters. "The inclusion of myself and Senator Starnes would have brought different perspectives on many issues, especially on issues specific to the states we represent. It is unfortunate that those in the White House did not see it that way. In order to create a bill that truly benefits the American people, it is essential that both parties have a seat at the table. Excluding members of one party from negotiations is not the way to achieve this goal and it is complete bad faith."

 

Vice President Caroline Blakesley (D-Michigan), who seemingly appears to have been the leader for Democrats in these talks, went to the Brady Press Briefing Room to address reporters soon after the announcement. She released a document with stimulus details to the press at the beginning of this press conference.

 

However, things took a turn towards the bizarre as Republican sources told the New York Times that this was not the same document they received during the talks. Vice President Blakesley seemed to acknowledge that fact when asked about it.

 

"The Republicans received a document outlining, broadly, the plans that we presented," Blakesley told Todd J. Gillman of the Dallas Morning News. "The document used in negotiations was less heavy on narrative - for public communication - and more heavy on total costings... Let me be clear: if Republicans are upset that they did not receive this specific document, I suppose that is their right."

 

She was also asked about the refusal of letting Cole and Starnes into the room, she did not seem to directly address questions on that other than to say that she did not know "that the Senate Republican Leader needed a posse to present a proposal."

 

Additionally, a question was posed that if Senator Storm were to return to the table, would he be allowed to bring more Republicans with him. Blakesley seemed to open the door to that possibility.

 

"I am willing to sit down with those who are capable of negotiating on behalf of the Senate Republican Conference," Blakesley said. "That said, we began negotiations with Senator Storm in good faith this time. He walked out the moment he was asked to present a proposal. That cannot be allowed to happen again."

 

In a follow up, Blakesley was asked if she felt Storm was capable of doing so, and she indicated that he likely would in that he would be able to bring together the number of Republican votes needed to pass a bipartisan deal.

 

Storm then held his own press conference where he expressed disappointment in the lack of honesty from the White House.

 

"Before I go any further, I have to express my deep discontent of the lack of honesty portrayed by the White House," Storm told reporters. "The outline I received and the outline that the Vice President revealed today, was entirely different from what I was given. The dishonesty, the lack of good faith and crass partisanship is what is wrong with beltway politics. This is not a time for Washington to play politics, this is a time for Washington to work together and  towards a solutions that will benefit all Americans."

 

Things in that press conference quickly got contentious with the first question.

 

"Do you have confidence in your ability to represent your caucus and produce and negotiate policy?" asked Deborah Crowther of the Star Tribune. 

 

"What kind of question is that?" Storm then asked. "Did our founding fathers lack confidence in their ability to lead, when they suggested that our nation be a democracy? Or did they believe that allowing more voices create stronger and better solutions. I believe in my negotiating team, and especially Senator Starnes and Senator Cole. Our nation needs both sides working together to ensure progress and that our nation gets back on track."

 

Storm told reporters during the press conference that the negotiations making little headway.

 

"To be quite honest, negotiations got no where," Storm said. "I was given an unfinished outline. I read the White House outline, felt like their ideas were unfinished and inefficient, and I decided that in order for us to get a deal, that I needed to have my full team there, so we can make progress. To be quite honest I believe denying the addition of two more people to negotiations is quite ridiculous considering the magnitude of the economic crisis."

 

Unfortunately, Storm had to depart the press conference soon after that answer.

 

Senator Isabel Redgrave (D-Montana) told MSNBC, among other things, that both parties need to come back together on stimulus discussions.

 

"It is in the national interest for both parties to work together on the stimulus package," Redgrave said. "We cannot let political gamesmanship trump serious policy proposals."

 

This certainly appears to be the case as the Wall Street Journal has reported that a tipping point for a potential second Great Depression is around the corner.

 

It remains to be seen who will blink first or how the American people will respond to this saga.

Weird LOA schedule coming for me. Could be LOA or not literally every day of the next week. Depends. Probably a 50/50 shot for each day as of now.

Rest of Q1 2009

 

NOMINATION OF SAMANTHA POWER TO BE ADMINISTRATOR OF THE UNITED STATES AGENCY FOR INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT

 

National Organization for Women
The fact that some Republicans are attempting to deny Samantha Power the ability to run the United States Agency for International Development is concerning.
It is especially so since those same Republicans have had nearly nothing to say publicly on why they want to deny her nomination.
Samantha Power consistently discussed gender equality and standing up for women in her remarks during her confirmation, hopefully this isn't why Republicans seek to deny her nomination now.
Regardless of their reasons, the silence is deafening. Things are not all bad though: we do commend Senator Constance Kane for standing up for her nomination to MSNBC.

 

American Israel Public Affairs Committee
Samantha Power called for giving billions of dollars in aid to Palestine. She should not receive the post she is being nominated for.
Maybe it is time that the White House and Democrats justify to the American people why she should be supported.
As much as Constance Kane is willing to stand up for her on stances relating to women's rights, which we feel like everyone could agree on is a positive, where is the standing up for her on how she will mesh in America's foreign policy apparatus?

 

J Street
We think Samantha Power would mesh fine considering she told Senators she supports a two-state solution to end the conflict and that funds would have to come with "strong accountability measures"
Unless President Ellis has said something different that only you are aware of, AIPAC?

 

SINQUEFIELD INVESTMENT INTO MISSOURI'S DEMOCRATIC PARTY

 

St. Louis Post-Dispatch
Missouri-based retired investor, Rex Sinquefield, has announced he will be making a six-figure investment in the Missouri Democratic Party’s voter outreach initiative.
It’s reported that Mr. Sinquefield was convinced by the efforts of state party leaders and Senator James Burton (D-MO).

 

PRESIDENT ELLIS ADDRESS TO JOINT SESSION OF CONGRESS

 

CNN
BREAKING: President Ellis addresses the Joint Session of Congress. See here: https://virtualgovernment.us/topic/21443-2009-joint-session-of-congress-address/?do=findComment&comment=150627

 

Fox News
BREAKING: President Ellis announces call to Congress for a $1 trillion stimulus package.

 

The Wall Street Journal
BREAKING President Ellis unveils series of TARP directives for small businesses, automakers, and community banking.

 

MSNBC
HOMEOWNER RESCUE President Ellis delivers $100 billion to homeowners struggling in subprime mortgage crisis.

 

Fox News
HANDOUT TO DELINQUENTS? 
Ellis authorizes $100 billion in money for mortgage delinquents.

MarketWatch
President Ellis proposes a $1 trillion stimulus bill. Includes tax credit for payroll taxes for employers, SNAP, unemployment benefits, and more.

 

Jon Clifton, Gallup
Our focus groups show strong support for the Making Work Pay Tax Credit, a direct tax cut of $1,000, among participants.

Timothy Naftali
(1) It's clear the president has proposed a monstrosity of a bill. He has high and admirable goals but he and his colleagues must be realistic.
(2) $1 trillion is an unprecedented amount of spending and major scrutiny is more than due.
(3) Republicans can and should scrutinize this proposal. But just as Ellis can't get tied up in lofty and unrealistic dreams of a clean passage, Republicans should play ball and work to get a deal done.

 

Jon Clifton, Gallup
There is lingering confusion and uncertainty in our focus groups about the America Works proposal. One participant asked if it means he will only be working part time if his employer participates.
(2) General consensus on that proposal is overwhelmingly undecided. In our groups, 2 supportive, 13 unsure, 3 opposed.
(3) Unsurprising for such a new proposal.

 

SRI LANKA CONFLICT/RAMIFICATIONS IN INDIA (Reuters World Article) (Reuters World Article) (Reuters World Article)

 

Reuters World
The UN Security Council has passed a resolution calling for a one week ceasefire in the Sri Lankan Civil War
The resolution leaves some befuddled as to what effect it will have at all, while the Sri Lankan government already denounced the legitimacy of the resolution

Dainik Jagran
Half an hour after the 72hrs ultimatum passed, Sri Lankan President Rajapaksa announced the beginning of what he described "the final offensive towards absolute victory" over LTTE. He said that the Army would show no mercy to terrorists and would no longer tolerate them to hide within the midst of silent supporters.
Reports are coming in of heavy artillery shelling in Pulmoddai and renewed firefights between the Sri Lankan Army and LTTE fighters near the strategically important Elephant Pass.

 

BBC World News
An LTTE suicide blast has hit an army camp outside of Point Pedro, while another one targeted a market place in Trincomalee

 

Dainik Jagran
Protesters in Karaikudi, India, have stormed the town hall, chanting for immediate aid for Tamils on Sri Lanka. In Chennai, the capital of Tamil Nadu, 800,000 protesters have gathered demanding India to put an end to the violence in Sri Lanka.

 

Reuters World
Public life in Tamil Nadu is at a halt, with hundreds of thousands protesting the Sri Lankan Civil War there everyday.
Meanwhile, according to UN observers, the Sri Lankan Army has begun indiscriminately shelling residential areas in the southern parts. A successful LTTE offensive broke through the SLA's line on Jaffna island.

 

BBC World News
The Sri Lankan Navy has sunk two Indian fishing trawlers with volunteers for the LTTE on board. Two other boats surrendered, the volunteers taken into custody.

 

Dainik Jagran
Around 60 Indian-Tamil volunteers were either shot in the waters or left to drown after the Sri Lankan Navy sunk to fishing trawlers headed for Jaffna peninsula.
Meanwhile, the Sri Lankan Arrny announced the capture of Pulmoddai. A city now a turned to ash due to relentless artillery shelling.

 

Reuters World
A former Indian Army officer and widely popular Tamil community leader, Arjunan Balasubramanian, has declared the renewed formation of the Tamil Nadu Liberation Front amidst ongoing fighting on Sri Lanka.
Following his calls for Tamils to "forge the dreams of a free homeland a reality", chants of "Free Tamil Eeelam! Free Tamil Nadu" could be heard all throughout Tamil Nadu.

 

PENNSYLVANIA STATE SENATOR PROPOSES MEASURE TO START COMPETITIVE GRANTS FOR FRACKING

The Philadelphia Inquirer
State Senator Jeffrey Piccola (R-PA) has proposed legislation that would provide competitive grants to gas companies for the purposes of constructing fracking infrastructure and safety measures.
The legislation would also establish competitive research grants to PA-based institutions on fossil-fuel technology.
Senator Brian Trueblood (R-PA) was one of the leaders cited by the bill sponsor in helping craft this legislation.

 

SECOND WHITE HOUSE PRESS BRIEFING

CNN
BREAKING: White House Press Secretary Kimberly McDaniel confirms to reporters that President Peter Ellis will invite Republicans to the White House to discuss stimulus. 

 

The New York Times
White House expresses “extreme concern” over conflict in Sri Lanka. Press Secretary McDaniel tells reporters that Ellis Admin. will be exploring “all diplomatic options available to us”.

 

The Washington Post
WH Press Secretary says it is sad that Republicans, in particular Senator Kyle Fitzgerald, have come out against nomination of Samantha Power.
McDaniel suggests that Fitzgerald shrugged his shoulders at mistreatment of women:
McDaniel “It is sad the Republican Party have now decided to reject it because the Senator Fitzgerald saw the mistreatment of women and girls abroad and shrugged his shoulders.”

 

USA Today
Kimberly McDaniel, White House Press Secretary, acknowledges that America Works plan is “not a silver bullet”, aligning with RNC Chair Anthony Cornell's comment that it is “is a start but not an end-all”.

On 5/4/2023 at 3:57 PM, reagan.39cs said:

                                                            John Edward Meyers 

                                      Class 2 U.S. Democratic Senator from Arkansas        

 Basic Information 

 

Character Name: John Edward Meyers 

Avatar: Mark Pryor

Seat: Arkansas II

Party: Democrat

Faction: Blue Dog 

Gender: Male (0 Pts)

Sexuality: Heterosexual (-5 Pts)

Race/Ethnicity: White (0 Pts)

Religious Affiliation: Southern Baptist- Evangelical/Mainline Protestant (0 Pts)

Date of Birth: July 17, 1946 (Aged 63) (0 Pts)

Place of Birth: Fayetteville, Washington County, Arkansas 

Place of Residence: Fayetteville, Washington County, Arkansas

Family History: Middle Class (0 Pts)

 

 Family Information

 

Parents: William Porter Meyers (b; 1921, d; 1991); Louisa Lea Meyer (neè Kneeling) (b; 1923, d; 2003)

Siblings: William Lee Porter Meyers (b; 1950)

Spouse: Marie Lynn Meyers (neè Pendleton) (b; 1952)

Children: John Edward Meyers Jr. (b; 1969); Ella-Lynn Jane Meyers (b; 1972)

 

Educational History

 

• Fayetteville High School, High School Diploma, (Class of '1964)• 

• University of Oklahoma, Bachelors of Art in Journalism (1964 – 1968) (0 Pts)

 

Employment History

 

• Columnlist, Northwest Arkansas Democrat Gazette (1969 – 1973) (5 Pts)

• Assistant Editor-in-Chief, Northwest Arkansas Democrat Gazette (1973 – 1975) (5 Pts)

• City Councilman, Fayetteville City Council, City of Fayetteville (1975 – 1979) (2 Pts)

• Mayor of the City of Fayetteville (1979 – 1990) (9 Pts)

• United States Representative from Arkansas’ 3rd Congressional District (1990 – 2008) (27 Pts)

• United States Senator for Arkansas (2008 – Present) (0 Pts)

 

TOTAL: 48/100 Pts

 

 

SWM has a good point. We will want you to explain how your term went and how you were elected as the Representative from Arkansas-3 or you can rework the bio. What would be helpful there as well is the vote list, which you will need to complete from the 101st or 102nd Congress onward if you decide to keep things as they are.

 

Also, were you elected to the House in 1990/start serving in 1991 and elected in 2008 to the Senate/start serving in 2009?

Player Media, Q1 2009

 

McAlester Media Company @Ollie:

It (the first piece of the Discovery Institute) makes a fine argument for no bailouts, people were left kind of wishing there was more here. It has good statistics. Some people think it is sort of a backhanded hit piece at the UAW. Not really going to convince independents of much. Though, hey, Republicans liked it!

 

Cash Amount: $561,604

Fundraising Disclosures Analysis, Q1 2009

 

NRA: The saga over the Guns in National Parks rule has been a net positive for all four Senators who received money from them this quarter. All four have been out there in support of guns in national parks. Trueblood has introduced legislation which is likely to be the favored legislation by the NRA. However, Marsh also has something that the NRA could support too.

 

NOW: Senator Constance Kane (D-Iowa) was the primary ally of the National Organization for Women during quarter 1. NOW is very appreciative of her legislation, the Mammogram and MRI Availability Act of 2009. They also appreciate her defense of it from Rush Limbaugh. Senator and DNC Chairman James Burton’s (D-Missouri) press push on the Gender Pay Transparency in Federal Contracting Act also has caught positive attention from the group. 

 

Outside of these items, the debate on the nomination of Samantha Power has been very beneficial to Democrats (and the one Republican) who supported her nomination during the quarter. This is where Senator Rebecca Green’s (D-Michigan) press releases helped her.

 

AIPAC: Samantha Power’s nomination once again steps in here, as well as public shows of support for Israel from Senators Brian Trueblood (R-Pennsylvania) and Rebecca Green. 

 

J-Street: Inversely, Senate Majority Leader James Kennedy (D-Massachusetts) and Senator Tom O’Reilly (D-Connecticut) were both skeptical of Israel’s recent actions and supported a diplomatic, two state solution.

 

EDAF: After Senate Majority Whip Nicholas Yarzabal was elected Senate Majority Whip, he came out in favor of actions to address climate change and to support green jobs. EDAF was intrigued to see this.

 

Farm Credit Council: Senator James Burton’s FARMS Act, which made it to the Senate Floor, they are thankful for the push to develop new markets for American agricultural products and the promotion of those same products in international markets. Senator Isabel Redgrave (D-Montana), meanwhile has said she will focus on sponsoring and co-sponsoring legislation to support the agricultural work.

 

AFT: Senator James Burton’s School Counseling Services Access Act, which would establish a grant program to hire additional school counselors and provide other support for school counselors, has received support from the AFT. 

 

AMA: The debate on Children’s Health Insurance Program reauthorization has boosted the American Medical Association. Obviously, they want reauthorization passed as soon as possible. They also don’t have too serious of problems with either the amendments to the legislation or the additional provisions in the legislation besides the straight reauthorization. This explains why most everyone received money from them this time around.

 

NARAL Pro-Choice America: Three words: Mexico City Policy. 

 

National Right to Life: National Right to Life was more mobilized on Samantha Power than NARAL was, hence why more Republicans got money. Senator Douglas Butcher (R-Louisiana)’s press release about the Mexico City Policy being an export of the worst of our culture impressed them. 

 

American Petroleum Institute: Senator Brian Trueblood introduced the State Natural Gas Act as well as helped craft new legislation in Pennsylvania to establish competitive grants for fracking. Frank Marsh’s effective editorial about “The road to America’s energy independence runs through Beckley and not Baghdad” also received very positive attention and led to contributions. Butcher’s editorial in the Wall Street Journal that was in favor of fossil fuels also had a similar effect to Marsh’s.

 

Human Rights Campaign: Nicholas Yarzabal’s speech at the Empire State Pride as well as his recently introduced legislation was the difference for him receiving money versus others not receiving any. Some other bills were introduced by Senators that would have gotten positive attention, but they were given no attention in the press at the time.

 

AT&T, Inc: The Relief for Rural America Act would put $15 billion into broadband in rural areas. Don’t think that really requires much explanation, Cornell and Haugland’s press conference was good, Haugland also issuing press releases was very beneficial. Armstrong, while not a sponsor, did put out a press release about his support which was also a plus.

Fundraising Disclosures, Q1 2009

 

New Priorities:

The National Rifle Association has stated that the codification of a guns in national parks rule that would allow law-abiding gun owners to carry guns in national parks is now a priority for them. 

The National Organization for Women has stated that the confirmation of Samantha Power to be USAID Administrator is now a priority for them. 

 

Background Fundraising Numbers:

Pres. Peter Ellis (AZ)	$2,249,439
Vice Pres. Caroline Blakesley (MI)	$1,874,533
Sen. Al Haugland (ND)	$470,863
Sen. Allison Bayh (IN)	$553,794
Sen. Amelia Lockhart (DE)	$470,863
Sen. Anney Iyal (WA)	$553,794
Sen. Anthony Cornell (TX)	$749,813
Sen. Anthony Richey (GA)	$553,794
Sen. Brian Trueblood (PA)	$640,791
Sen. Constance Kane (IA)	$470,863
Sen. Douglas Butcher (LA)	$600,583
Sen. Eugene Miner (AR)	$470,863
Sen. Frank Marsh (WV)	$518,099
Sen. Henry Wolfe (MI)	$553,794
Sen. Hiram Storm (OH)	$640,791
Sen. Isabel Redgrave (MT)	$470,863
Sen. James Kennedy (MA)	$553,794
Sen. Jennifer Bliss (KY)	$553,794
Sen. Kyle Fitzgerald (AL)	$553,794
Sen. Linda Lawler (OK)	$470,863
Sen. Marcus Underboard (ME)	$470,863
Sen. Michael Cole (IA)	$470,863
Sen. Nicholas Yarzabal (NY)	$661,952
Sen. Ollie Chambers (TX)	$749,813
Sen. R. Stimson Brown (WV)	$470,863
Sen. Rebecca Green (MI)	$553,794
Sen. Roger Armstrong (MN)	$470,863
Sen. Tom O'Reilly (CT)	$470,863
Sen. Vincent Nicholson (SD)	$470,863
Sen. Will Johnson (FL)	$661,952

Sen. James Burton (MO)

$572,205

 

Senator Marsh had two impactful editorials in his home state, hence why he received more background fundraising amounts. Senator Burton also had a not as effective editorial, which was still enough to give him a bump. Finally, Senator Butcher's editorial in the Wall street Journal contributed to his bump.

 

National Rifle Association:

Sen. Al Haugland (ND)	$101,760
Sen. Brian Trueblood (PA)	$162,096
Sen. Frank Marsh (WV)	$60,336
Sen. James Burton (MO)	$67,719

 

National Organization for Women:

Pres. Peter Ellis (AZ)	$172,424
Sen. Al Haugland (ND)	$31,790
Sen. Allison Bayh (IN)	$31,790
Sen. Amelia Lockhart (DE)	$31,790
Sen. Anney Iyal (WA)	$86,212
Sen. Brian Trueblood (PA)	$31,790
Sen. Constance Kane (IA)	$203,745
Sen. Eugene Miner (AR)	$31,790
Sen. Frank Marsh (WV)	$31,790
Sen. Henry Wolfe (MI)	$31,790
Sen. Isabel Redgrave (MT)	$31,790
Sen. James Burton (MO)	$149,283
Sen. James Kennedy (MA)	$31,790
Sen. Jennifer Bliss (KY)	$31,790
Sen. Nicholas Yarzabal (NY)	$31,790
Sen. Rebecca Green (MI)	$204,214
Sen. Tom O'Reilly (CT)	$31,790

 

American-Israel Public Affairs Committee:

Sen. Anthony Cornell (TX)	$21,141
Sen. Brian Trueblood (PA)	$10,977
Sen. Douglas Butcher (LA)	$21,141
Sen. Hiram Storm (OH)	$21,141
Sen. Kyle Fitzgerald (AL)	$21,141
Sen. Linda Lawler (OK)	$21,141
Sen. Ollie Chambers (TX)	$21,141
Sen. Rebecca Green (MI)	$10,977
Sen. Roger Armstrong (MN)	$21,141

 

J-Street:

Sen. James Kennedy (MA)	$22,745
Sen. Tom O'Reilly (CT)	$22,745

 

Environmental Defense Action Fund:

Sen. Nicholas Yarzabal (NY)

$46,519

 

Farm Credit Council:

Sen. Al Haugland (ND)	$12,061
Sen. Constance Kane (IA)	$78,514
Sen. Eugene Miner (AR)	$40,045
Sen. Isabel Redgrave (MT)	$89,928
Sen. James Burton (MO)	$222,390

 

American Federation of Teachers:

Sen. James Burton (MO)

$159,422

 

American Medical Association:

Pres. Peter Ellis (AZ)	$151,418
Sen. Allison Bayh (IN)	$10,301
Sen. Anthony Cornell (TX)	$39,424
Sen. Anthony Richey (GA)	$39,424
Sen. Brian Trueblood (PA)	$112,035
Sen. Constance Kane (IA)	$248,105
Sen. Douglas Butcher (LA)	$39,424
Sen. Eugene Miner (AR)	$299,779
Sen. Frank Marsh (WV)	$39,424
Sen. Henry Wolfe (MI)	$39,424
Sen. Hiram Storm (OH)	$39,424
Sen. Isabel Redgrave (MT)	$187,744
Sen. James Kennedy (MA)	$39,424
Sen. Kyle Fitzgerald (AL)	$39,424
Sen. Marcus Underboard (ME)	$39,424
Sen. Ollie Chambers (TX)	$86,010
Sen. Rebecca Green (MI)	$198,045
Sen. Roger Armstrong (MN)	$115,133
Sen. Tom O'Reilly (CT)	$10,301
Sen. Vincent Nicholson (SD)	$112,035

 

 

NARAL Pro-Choice America:

Pres. Peter Ellis (AZ)	$352,112
Sen. Constance Kane (IA)	$68,904
Sen. Isabel Redgrave (MT)	$109,030

 

National Right to Life:

Sen. Anthony Cornell (TX)	$41,748
Sen. Douglas Butcher (LA)	$176,778
Sen. Hiram Storm (OH)	$41,748
Sen. Kyle Fitzgerald (AL)	$135,030
Sen. Linda Lawler (OK)	$41,748
Sen. Ollie Chambers (TX)	$41,748
Sen. Roger Armstrong (MN)	$41,748

 

American Petroleum Institute:

Sen. Brian Trueblood (PA)	$261,132
Sen. Douglas Butcher (LA)	$201,525
Sen. Frank Marsh (WV)	$127,766
Sen. Isabel Redgrave (MT)	$22,714

 

Human Rights Campaign:

Sen. Nicholas Yarzabal (NY)

$110,872

 

AT&T, Inc.

Sen. Al Haugland (ND)	$291,206
Sen. Anthony Cornell (TX)	$208,770
Sen. Roger Armstrong (MN)	$82,436

Name: 

Media/Outlet: 

Reason: (Ex. Promoting Immigration Bill) 

 

[Bullet points/brief outline of talking points during appearance.]

 

Each character gets four of these per quarter

Face the Nation -- Q1 2009

 

BOB SCHIEFFER: Today on FACE THE NATION, President Ellis is expected to announce his plan for a stimulus package in a joint session to Congress tomorrow while the White House has reached a deal with General Motors and Chrysler on a second bailout package. Republican Senator Kyle Fitzgerald of Alabama will be here to talk about that package.

Meanwhile, the Senate continues to debate reauthorization of the Children's Health Insurance Program. Can a so-called clean version of the bill make it to the President's desk? What does a clean version even look like?

Finally, Blue Dog Senators have been making pushes this week on issues such as agriculture and guns. Their support has led to the Missouri state legislature considering constitutional concealed carry. We will talk to Senator and Chairman of the Democratic National Committee James Burton about this and the other developments of the week.

But first, Senator Kyle Fitzgerald on FACE THE NATION.

BOB SCHIEFFER: Welcome back to Face the Nation. Now joining us is Senator Kyle Fitzgerald, the Republican Senator from Alabama. Thanks for coming on, Senator!

KYLE FITZGERALD: Thanks for having me

 

BOB SCHIEFFER: Senator, in recent days you've talked about how the potential bailouts of Chrysler and General Motors are bad for your home state of Alabama. What is your reaction now that a bailout package is apparently across the finish line?

 

KYLE FITZGERALD: I'm disappointed that I won't get the opportunity to vote on it. I understand that they're able to use TARP money for this, but this really should have been handled separately so that we could vote on it through Congress. It's just a massive overreach of executive power. Furthermore, reports indicate that the Treasury Department was leading the negotiations, and the senate hasn't even finished confirming a Treasury Secretary yet. There are just way too many red flags on this.

 

BOB SCHIEFFER: Reports say that part of the bailout package includes stipulations on fuel efficiency standards. Do you have any reaction that, specifically?

 

KYLE FITZGERALD: Well I think the main stipulation should be bringing jobs back to America. Specifically, GM needs to keep the Moraine, Ohio plant open. They should also be required to move a lot of their foreign manufacturing back to America. Bob, if I were leading the negotiations, I would stipulate that every car they sell in America has to be assembled in America along with most of the parts and components.

 

BOB SCHIEFFER: I know you have questioned why the U.S. should even be providing this bailout package. Is there any scenario in which you would have supported a bailout package?

 

KYLE FITZGERALD: If GM agreed to the stipulations I just mentioned and if some other countries that GM operates in were also contributing money, then yes I actually could see a scenario where I would support bailing them out. But without those provisions, I can't support it.
GM and Chrysler would have to become truly American companies again

 

BOB SCHIEFFER: You have introduced the American Automobiles Act which would set tariffs on passenger vehicles. Can you tell us a little bit more about that legislation?

 

KYLE FITZGERALD: Sure. This bill would levy a 25% tariff on all foreign built passenger vehicles, so basically any passenger vehicle not manufactured in the United States. The purpose of this would be to encourage companies - both foreign and domestic - to manufacture more vehicles in the U.S.

 

BOB SCHIEFFER: Are you concerned this could lead to retaliation by those same foreign countries if they decide to set tariffs on U.S. built cars?

 

KYLE FITZGERALD: I'm less concerned about it than I am the inflationary impact of lighting $88 billion on fire. 

 

It's important to note that U.S. automakers do face some disadvantages in the global market. First of all, our workers get paid more. I'm not just talking about the union workers, either. Honda and Hyundai pay their workers back home in Alabama a lot more than GM is paying their workers at the new plant they built in Mexico. Furthermore, there are trade barriers all over the world that prevent U.S. automakers from accessing various markets. This tariff would level the playing field for American workers.

 

We actually already have a 25% tariff on light trucks. That's why the truck market is the one area the Big 3 actually does well in, because they have that protection. That's also part of the reason foreign companies are building trucks here. Basically we're just expanding the tariff to include all the other passenger vehicles. 

 

Admittedly it would be a bold move, but again, we're in a situation where we're being asked to spend nearly $100 billion to keep these companies afloat. Given the circumstances, I think it's warranted.

BOB SCHIEFFER: Do you think the Democratic-controlled Senate will go for this proposal?

KYLE FITZGERALD: Maybe. I think the UAW would support it. It probably depends on what the President thinks. If he wanted to, he could probably do this right now by executive order.

 

BOB SCHIEFFER: Well, thank you for coming on today Senator!

 

KYLE FITZGERALD: Thanks for having me, Bob.

 

----Mid-program break----

 

Theme music once again plays

NARRATOR: Face the Nation with CBS News Chief Washington Correspondent Bob Schieffer. And now from CBS News in Washington, Bob Schieffer.

 

BOB SCHIEFFER: Welcome back to Face the Nation. Unfortunately, Senator and DNC Chairman Burton had to back out on us. But instead we will get another member of the Blue Dog Coalition on our program today. In fact, Senator Vincent D. Nicholson of South Dakota is the chair of the coalition. Thanks for joining us Senator!

 

VINCENT D. NICHOLSON: Good morning, Bob! Thanks for having me.

 

BOB SCHIEFFER: The President is expected to announce his stimulus package to a Joint Session of Congress tomorrow ((today IRL)). Is there anything in particular you are looking to hear from the President in his speech?

 

VINCENT D. NICHOLSON: I certainly don't want to get out ahead of the President here, because I think he deserves an opportunity to present his plan, but there are a few things I want to see.

 

First of all, it's critical that rural states like my home state of South Dakota get a fair deal. Rural communities have faced a unique set of difficult circumstances as a result of this crisis — and we are going to lose out if all of the money in whatever Congress passes flows straight to California and New York. We need thoughtful solutions and investments in rural America and that is something I hope to see from the President tonight.

 

I also want to make sure that we are investing back into state and local governments. These are places with less bloat than Washington that almost always know better with regard to how to spend their taxpayers' contributions. They're also struggling more than ever before. We had a program in the 1970s called general revenue sharing — led by Republicans and done with bipartisan support, by the way — where the federal government provided consistent support to states and cities. We cut that a couple of decades ago and replaced it with an unreliable policy of nickel-and-diming our way to severe austerity at the local level. These are the places that fund police departments, water, and picking up the garbage. We can't let them go bankrupt during this crisis.

BOB SCHIEFFER: So would you support a return to general revenue sharing?

VINCENT D. NICHOLSON: Yes, Bob, I would. Why wouldn't we go back to a program that would save our cities financially and spend taxpayer money better than Washington does?

BOB SCHIEFFER: laughs I suppose that is a valid argument. We asked Senator Fitzgerald about this earlier this morning, the Wall Street Journal has reported that a bailout package for Chrysler and General Motors is across the finish line. Do you have any reaction to that?

VINCENT D. NICHOLSON: I'm going to want to see the details first. I voted against TARP because I believe it's fundamentally wrong to spend taxpayer money to bail out the big banks that caused this crisis, but I do think there's something to be said for a distinction between a bailout of the big banks and a rescue of the auto companies, which generally fell victim to the circumstances. It's certainly a better use of TARP money, while it's available, than handouts to megabanks.

 

BOB SCHIEFFER: Speaking of banking. You have introduced legislation to restore the Banking Act of 1933, otherwise known as Glass-Stegall, but besides some nice co-sponsors that legislation hasn’t seemed to create much noise in Washington. Why do you think that restoring Glass-Stegall is something Congress should be paying more attention to doing?

 

VINCENT D. NICHOLSON: Well, simply put, Bob, it worked at preventing crises like this one. Glass-Steagall was passed in the wake of the Great Depression to create some common-sense safeguard for how banks use your deposits. Essentially, it keeps commercial and investment banks separate. Now, this law worked well for over 60 years, but the banking industry started lobbying to repeal it in the 1980s and 1990s. Why? They wanted in on the gains in the stock market. Congress fell for their charade — you know, it was all about "enhancing competition." I was one of only nine Senators to vote against the repeal, and guess what started to happen? The big banks just became bigger and the investments they made got riskier and riskier until, eventually, we got into this position. We need to protect Americans from another crisis, so why not go back to something that worked? And as far as "noise," you know, I think folks in the Capitol are focused on the stimulus package, so I can't blame them. I would expect us to circle back to the issue of banking at some point in the near future.

BOB SCHIEFFER: Something else that folks in the Capitol are focused on is the reauthorization of the Children’s Health Insurance Program. You obviously support the reauthorization, as stated in your press release on behalf of the Blue Dog Coalition. Do you have any concerns about the addition of the Protection of Pre-Existing Conditions amendment which will take effect at the beginning of next year?

 

VINCENT D. NICHOLSON: Yes, I do, as some of my colleagues in the Blue Dog Coalition have indicated. I am all for protecting pre-existing conditions. But you can't protect pre-existing conditions in a vacuum, with no other protections for folks on the insurance market. People will simply be priced out of insurance unless it's paired with comprehensive reform, so this is not letting the perfect be the enemy of the good. If anything, Senator Storm's amendment passing is a sign we need to move quickly on healthcare reform. Overall, though, I'm just incredibly disappointed that CHIP became partisan. We called for a quick and clean reauthorization of the program because it's wrong to play politics with the health of our children — but unfortunately our colleagues on the other side of the aisle went the other route.

 

BOB SCHIEFFER: Will you still be supporting this CHIP reauthorization bill even with the amendment attached?

 

VINCENT D. NICHOLSON: I would think so, yes. It just needs to be followed, quickly, by proper healthcare reform, not something haphazardly jammed into a different bill.

 

BOB SCHIEFFER: I want to go back to your previous answer for just a moment. It's been said quite a bit by Democrats that this is a clean reauthorization and you used similar words in that answer. Is it truly that quick and clean if there are other provisions such as the extension of Medicaid DSH allotments for Tennessee and Hawaii and an increase in the excise tax rate on tobacco products in this reauthorization bill?

 

VINCENT D. NICHOLSON: I think that's within the range of usual updates to the program in reauthorization bills. It's certainly similar to what we sent to the President's desk in 2007.

 

BOB SCHIEFFER: So would you agree that it is a quick and clean reauthorization? Since it is within the range of usual updates in these types of bills.

 

VINCENT D. NICHOLSON: I absolutely would, with regard to the original proposal. It's just such a shame that CHIP got dragged into a partisan brawl. I've been out here for 30 years — it's rare for programs like this with such strong bipartisan support to have this happen to them. A shock, really, and a real disappointment that my colleagues on the other side decided to go this route.

 

BOB SCHIEFFER: Last August, 73% of Americans found healthcare to be one of their top concerns. That surely means healthcare will likely become a prominent issue in the coming months. Obviously Congress is debating CHIP reauthorization, but it seems like Americans will want more. Where do you stand on what Washington should do about healthcare reform in general?

 

VINCENT D. NICHOLSON: First of all, it's time to act. Congress can walk and chew gum, as I think you've seen with your interviews today! But with regard to policy, I'd like to see something like what Senators Wyden and Bennett came up with in the previous Congress. That is, a bipartisan bill with an emphasis on cost transparency and universal, comprehensive, flexible, high-quality coverage — and that pays for itself. As Senator Wyden has said, the level of coverage for Americans would be as good as or better than the plans offered to members of Congress.

 

BOB SCHIEFFER: Would you be in support of a so-called public option?

 

VINCENT D. NICHOLSON: It would really depend on the details of the proposal. I've seen public option proposals in my time here that are worth discussing on the merits and some that go straight into my recycling bin.

 

BOB SCHIEFFER: Well thank you for the conversation this morning, Senator!

 

VINCENT D. NICHOLSON: Thanks for having me, Bob!

 

BOB SCHIEFFER: This has been FACE THE NATION. We will see you next week.

Outro music plays

 

Face the Nation offers insight and analysis from Washington politicians on the top issues of the day. The primary mode of this is through live interviews.

Q1 2009, Super Bowl XLIII to Ellis Joint Session of Congress

 

TRUMP CHANGES POLITICAL PARTIES

 

TMZ
Real estate developer and television host of The Apprentice Donald J. Trump has announced his party change from Democrat to Republican.

 

BLACK WIDOW KILLER CONVICTED

HLN
Stacey Castor, also known as the Black Widow Killer, has been convicted of the murder of her husband and attempted murder of her daughter.

 

INDIAN ELECTIONS (Reuters World Article)

Dainik Jagran
Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi is the BJP's prime ministerial candidate, following the death of Lal Krishna Advani.
He is being accused of having condoned violence against muslims during the 2002 Gujarat riots, but BJP officials crowned him their party's banner carrier into the 2009 elections nevertheless

 

SRI LANKA CONFLICT/RAMIFICATIONS IN INDIA (BBC World News Article)

 

Dainik Jagran
An LTTE suicide blast targeted a Police Academy in Periyavilankuli, killing 86 cadets, officers and civilians and wounding 124.
In Tamil Nadu, 6 people have been killed during violent protests against recent massacres comitted by the Sri Lankan Army, including one police officer.
In recent days, the protests have spread to several cities in Tamil Nadu, drawing the attendance of over 300,000 Tamils.
Prime Minister Singh urged for protests to remain peaceful, while stating that attacks on government buildings would be answered by the police.

 

Dainik Jagran
Sri Lankan President Mahinda Rajapaksa has given the LTTE 72hrs to lay down arms and surrender unconditionally or face "extinction".

 

FRUSTRATION GROWS WITH NEW YORK STATE SENATE LEADER

The New York Daily News
Dissatisfaction with State Senate Majority Leader Malcolm Smith (D-NY) grows with moderates within the NY State Senate. The State Senate flipped Democrat in 2008.

 

MISSOURI STATE SENATE TO CONSIDER CONSTITUTIONAL CARRY

St. Louis Post-Dispatch
Missouri State Senator Joseph Keaveny (D-MO) has proposed legislation establishing constitutional carry in the state.
State Senator Keaveny cited support from Senator and DNC Chairman James Burton (D-MO), among others, at the bill announcement.

Brady Campaign to Prevent Gun Violence
More bad policy and bad procedure from Democrats in Missouri. Are we really going to continue to see more Democrats stand up for the gun lobby? Guns in national parks, now this?
I guess this is the new status quo.

 

National Rifle Association
We are ecstatic to see Senator Keaveny, with the backing of Senator Burton, defending the #2A rights of law-abiding Missourians. We hope to help Keaveny and Burton liberate another state with constitutional carry!

 

LATEST ECONOMY STATISTICS

 

MarketWatch
Unemployment jumps 0.5% in one month, 912,000 jobs lost.

 

The Wall Street Journal
Dow Jones dips below 8,000 to end at 7,851 at closing bell 
Lowest point since 2003

 

POLLING ON CHILDREN'S HEALTH INSURANCE PROGRAM REAUTHORIZATION

Jon Clifton, Gallup
Poll alert...
We've been tracking public reaction to the CHIP debate. Here are our findings...

 

Gallup
Do you support or oppose the Children's Health Insurance Program?
Support: 65% (+1.5%)
Oppose: 25% (+4.8%)
Undecided/No Opinion: 10% (-6.2%)

Do you approve or disapprove of each party's handling of the CHIP Act reauthorization?
PARTY - APPROVAL - DISAPPROVAL - UNDECIDED/NO OPINION
Democrats: 51% - 30% - 19%
Republicans: 39% - 45% - 16%

Do you approve or disapprove of preventing insurance companies from denying coverage or raising costs based on pre-existing conditions?
Yes: 78%
No: 16%
Undecided/No Opinion: 6%

Do you believe it is important for President Ellis and Congressional Democrats and Republicans to make bipartisan healthcare reform a major priority?
Very Important: 38%
Important: 20%
Somewhat Important: 15%
Not Important at All: 17%

Jon Clifton, Gallup
(Thread) It's worthwhile noting the strong and effective PR campaign by Democrats for a clean CHIP renewal contrasted with perceived Republican inaction up until the Storm pre-existing conditions amendment...
Senator Chambers has made perhaps the most effective argument against this specific reauthorization bill of all his colleagues, but his own party's amendment on pre-existing conditions has created a massive inconsistency.
...the American public wants to see more done on healthcare. They want CHIP reauthorized. They want protections for pre-existing conditions. How each party navigates from here, we will see. But so far, Democrats more organized on messaging.

 

Sean Hannity
Democrats think people with pre-existing conditions should be denied coverage. Unamerican!

 

AGREEMENT REACHED ON AUTO BAILOUT (w/economic reaction)

The Wall Street Journal
BREAKING GM, Chrysler reach agreement on TARP rescue package with Dept of Treasury, according too multiple sources.

 

Jake Tapper
I am hearing there are numerous stipulations involved in the GM, Chrysler bailout package including fuel efficiency standards and more. Still awaiting all the details.

 

MarketWatch
Dow Jones surges 650 points in three hours.

 

KENNEDY STEPS AWAY TO DEAL WITH PERSONAL MATTER; YARZABAL TO SERVE AS ACTING SML (Aka: Mac is going on LOA)

POLITICO
Senator James Kennedy will be returning to Massachusetts for a few weeks to handle a personal family matter.
The Senate Democratic Caucus has temporarily appointed Senator Nicholas Yarzabal of New York to take over the responsibilities of Majority Leader in Kennedy's absence.

 

PRESIDENT ELLIS TO ADDRESS JOINT SESSION OF CONGRESS (Wall Street Journal Article)

 

MSNBC
Anticipation grows as President Ellis is expected to announce his stimulus plan at tonight’s joint session of Congress.

 

CNN
The upcoming joint session of Congress will be the first time in American history that two women will preside over Congress. That being Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi (D-CA) and Vice President Caroline Blakesley (D-MI)

 

Fox News
Viewership of the upcoming joint session of Congress is expected to be higher than average due to the ongoing economic crisis.

Q1 2009, Post-Inauguration to Super Bowl XLIII

 

INAUGURATION OF PETER ELLIS AND CAROLINE BLAKESLEY

 

John King
There is an estimated 1 to 1.3 million people in attendance today.

 

CNN
Blakesley Sworn In First female Vice President in U.S. history

 

MSNBC
HISTORY Ellis sworn in, becomes first Jewish President in American history.

 

Chris Wallace
The new president making clear what he issues he thinks matters most. Economy, healthcare, rural issues at the top of his list.

 

Jake Tapper
This speech echoes a lot of a SOTU agenda pitch to Congress. Not too much policy, but nonetheless the tone is one of action.

 

GREEN REPLACES BLAKESLEY AS SENATOR FROM MICHIGAN

 

POLITICO
Michigan Lieutenant Governor Rebecca Green (D-MI) has been appointed by Governor Jennifer Granholm (D-MI) to the U.S. Senate.
This comes as Vice President-elect Caroline Blakesley (D-MI) resigned her seat in anticipation of her ascension to the Vice Presidency.

 

AUTOMAKERS REQUEST BAILOUT

 

MarketWatch
Chrysler CFO says without bailout of at minimum $35 billion, company will go bankrupt.

 

The Wall Street Journal
General Motors requests $53 billion in bailout funding.

 

ISRAELI ELECTIONS/ANNOUNCEMENT OF FIRST STATE VISIT FROM PRESIDENT ELLIS (Reuters World Article)

 

Tzipi Livni - Prime Minister-designate of Israel
It will be our pleasure to welcome President Ellis for his first state visit.

 

i24news
Israel is electing it's 18th Knesset today, as Kadima is widely expected to lose it's status as largest party amidst criticism of the government's handling of the economic troubles of the country.

 

i24news
BREAKING NEWS Early exit polls project dramatic victory for Likud in 18th Knesset Elections.

 

Reuters World
Likud won 32 seats in the 18th Knesset elections, while Livni's Kadima party came i second with 24 seats. The far right Yisrael Beitenu also saw it's seat count increase dramatically to 20.

 

UNRESET IN SRI LANKA AND IMPACTS ACROSS SOUTH ASIA (Reuters World Article) (Reuters World Article) (Reuters World Article)

 

Dainik Jagran
Sri Lankan Commander of the Army Sarath Fonseka was killed during an ambush near the town of Vavuniya.

 

Dainik Jagran
The Sri Lankan Army has been accused of having massacred 426 Tamil civilians in two border villages on the Jaffna peninsula.

 

Reuters World
Violent protests erupted in India's Tamil dominated state of Tamil Nadu, as news of a masscare on Sri Lanka spread. The killing of 426 civilians is likely in retaliation to the Tamil Tiger's killing the Army's Field Marshal a few days ago.

 

Dainik Jagran
Reports are trickling in of a second massacre near the town of Pulmoddai. A LTTE spokesperson released footage of members of the Sri Lankan Army attacking a Tamil village, shooting randomly at fleeing civilians.

 

Dainik Jagran
Breaking News The Bharatiya Janata Party, India's largest opposition announced that one of its co-founders and most senior people in Indian politics, Lal Krishna Advani, died of cardiac arrest yesterday.
The BJP is currently lagging behind the ruling Indian National Congress, ahead of the 2009 General Election. The party's parliamentary board will soon make a decision about the party's prime ministerial candidate, with its uber father Lal Krishna Advani now deceased.

 

PRESIDENT ELLIS REVERSES MEXICO CITY POLICY

 

Salvatore Cordileone, Auxiliary Bishop of San Diego
The deaths of unborn babies will be on the hands of this administration after reversing the Mexico City Policy. Repent!

 

Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-CA)
I believe the Mexico City Policy is simply bad policy. I applaud the President for taking decisive action to undo the actions of the Bush Administration.

 

SAN ANTONIO MAYORAL RACE

 

POLITICO
Julian Castro (D-TX), former San Antonio city councilor, has emerged as the front runner in the upcoming mayoral race in San Antonio. This comes as Progressives aim to win a key mayoral race in the state.

 

POLITICO
Texas State Senator Leticia Van de Putte (D-TX) has announced her candidacy for Mayor of San Antonio. This will set up a battle between the state senator and Julian Castro.

 

POLITICO
The Blue Dog Coalition has formally endorsed the candidacy of Leticia Van de Putte for Mayor of San Antonio. This high-profile endorsement is expected to help Senator Van de Putte chances in the upcoming race.

 

ANCHORAGE MAYORAL RACE

 

POLITICO
Former assemblyman Dan Sullivan (R-AK) emerges as the early frontrunner in upcoming Anchorage Mayoral Race.
This comes after Anchorage Mayor Mark Begich (D-AK) defeated Senator Ted Stevens (R-AK) last fall.

 

MARSH CHANGES CAUCUS STATUS

POLITICO
Senate Pro Tempore Frank Marsh (D-WV) has announced that he has joined the Blue Dog Coalition.

 

PRESIDENT ELLIS INVITED TO SPEAK BEFORE JOINT SESSION OF CONGRESS

 

CNN
BREAKING: Speaker Pelosi has invited President Ellis to speak before a joint session of Congress.

 

MSNBC
White House officials have indicated that the content of the speech will revolve around the President's plan for a stimulus package.

 

CHIP REAUTHORIZATION

 

The Hill
Republicans push amendment on pre-existing conditions on CHIP bill.

 

Senator Hillary Clinton (D-NY)
Reauthorizing CHIP is commonsense. I implore my Republican colleagues to vote just like they did in 2007 and get this bill on President Ellis' desk.

 

Senator Jim DeMint (R-SC)
Americans want thorough review of what's coming out of Washington. My question to Democrats is simple on CHIP: What's the rush?

 

Congressman Rahm Emanuel (D-IL)
The rush you brokeback blowhard is that American families are in desperate need of help. Get off your ass and pass CHIP ASAP!

 

CNN
Polling on CHIP Reauthorization Act of 2009
For - 63.5%
Against - 20.3%
Unsure - 16.2%

CHIP remains a immensely popular program with the majority of the American People. While opposition is low, it's worth noting that Republicans have not come out against CHIP either.
The unsure category has spiked within the last day as Congress currently evaluates a possible pre-existing conditions amendment. Remains to be seen how that will impact the overall bill.

 

PRESIDENT ELLIS CABINET CONFIRMATION HEARINGS

CNN
Republican lawmakers grill USAID Administrator-designee Samantha Power over past comments on the Israel/Palestine conflict.

Fareed Zakaria
So far, Governor Banfield is proving to pundits why so many agreed he'd be a top contender for Secretary of State in an Ellis Administration. Thoughtful and straightforward answers are exactly what the American People want.

CPAC/NETROOTS PREVIEW

MSNBC
Hotels around the Lawrence Convention Center in Pittsburgh are booked as Netroot attendees are set to arrive in the coming days.

 

Fox News
CPAC organizers are expecting a record turnout at this year's upcoming convention in Washington D.C.

 

SENATOR FRANK MARSH MEETS WITH GOVERNOR JOE MANCHIN

 

The Charleston Gazette-Mail
Senator and President Pro Tempore Frank Marsh (D-WV) was seen leaving the Governor's Mansion earlier today. Reports indicate he spoke with Governor Joe Manchin (D-WV).

 

RELIEF FOR RURAL AMERICA ACT OF 2009

 

Fox News
Senator Al Haugland (D-ND) and Senator Anthony Cornell (R-TX) have put forward the Relief for Rural America Act of 2009.

 

MSNBC
Capitol Hill experts are watching closely to see if Senate Democratic Leadership will docket the Relief for Rural America Act of 2009.

 

CNN
A senate press briefing held by the sponsors of the Relief for Rural America Act of 2009 has increased attention towards the legislation within rural congressional delegations.
 

SUPER BOWL XLIII

 

ESPN
The Pittsburgh Steelers have emerged victorious over the Arizona Cardinals in a 27-23 win. This is a historic sixth franchise victory for the Steelers.