New York City's economic situation is teetering on the precipice as Wall Street looks to have one of the worst years on record, the real estate market is in real bad shape, and the outlook looks grim.
So with all that in mind, Mayor Mike Bloomberg's keen intellect suggests now is the time to either put tolls on the East River bridges or congestion pricing, or both.
The man is absolutely clueless. He's intent upon imposing a highly regressive tax on businesses and individuals who come into the city to do business. All it will achieve is a more intensified and long lasting recession. The revenues raised from the tolls and/or congestion pricing will not cover the lost business costs as people choose to do business elsewhere in more favorable tax climates.
It's the wrong plan at the wrong time.
Yet, many people consider Bloomberg to be a financial wizard who can shepherd the city or even the nation through a tough economic period. I don't see it at all, given that his first inclination isn't to cut spending and apply principles of fiscal austerity to failed government programs, but to tax everyone and impose new taxes and fees to increase revenues. Under Bloomberg, the city has seen its tax burden rise exponentially as the city budget swells. MTA fares continue climbing as service declines. The costs to do business continue rising, and when you wonder why businesses are considering doing business elsewhere, it comes down to the fact that it's cheaper to do business outside the City.
Imposing new tolls and congestion pricing will only accelerate the flight from the City of businesses - the very engine that keeps the local economy going. The financial industry, already battered by the toxic paper crisis, will look to reduce costs by consolidating outside the City.
Now isn't the time to impose new burdensome costs on taxpayers, including those who are least capable to afford crushing new tolls and fees, but to ease the tax burden so that people feel able to spend more (thereby increasing sales tax revenues, corporate tax revenues, and personal savings and investments).
Saturday, November 08, 2008
Rangel's Tax Mess Continues
Rep. Charles Rangel (D-NY), and the chairman of the House Ways and Means Committee still hasn't found a forensic accountant to figure out what the heck Rangel did for all the tax years in question after he admitted to underpaying taxes for years. The problem? Many of the firms considered have business before the Committee and it would be a conflict of interests.
Paging Nancy Pelosi. You said you'd drain the swamp of Congress of the corruption and graft, and here you are two years later and it's as bad as ever, and you're busy looking askance at those who are engaging in corrupt or shady or illegal activities.
Rangel in September said he would hire a "forensic accountant" (think: "CSI: Charlie") to untangle a 20-year morass of tax returns and to determine just how much money he's made and how much in unpaid taxes he may still owe.The kicker? The law firm handling Rangel's mess is getting paid out of his campaign fund, which is a violation of federal law.
(Reminder: Rangel's committee writes the nation's tax laws.)
But as The Post's Isabel Vincent reported, two months later Rangel's lawyers claim they can't locate a single qualified firm that hasn't contributed to Rangel's campaigns or has no pending business before Ways & Means.
The same lawyers, incidentally, have already been paid more than $121,000 from Rangel's campaign committee.
Generally, that's a no-no. And though Rangel's staff insists he got a required advance OK from the Federal Elections Commission, the FEC says otherwise: An agency spokeswoman insists that neither Rangel nor anyone representing him even asked for a determination.
Thus does the stench grow stronger.
Paging Nancy Pelosi. You said you'd drain the swamp of Congress of the corruption and graft, and here you are two years later and it's as bad as ever, and you're busy looking askance at those who are engaging in corrupt or shady or illegal activities.
The Challenge to the GOP
Among the issues the GOP has to confront going forward if they want to regain seats in Congress and ultimately the White House is how to combat the advantage that the Democrats have in urban areas. This map at the Washington Post shows just how Sen. Barack Obama won the White House. He won because of his strong showing in urban areas. The advantages carried in places like Los Angeles, Philadelphia, and New York City were more than sufficient to carry those states, and the map shows that outside major urban areas, the nation still remains Republican territory.
The GOP must do more to address that issue.
It has to rebuild its ground game to get out the vote in urban areas, but to do that, it must provide a more credible economic and social policy that actually addresses concerns that those areas have. McCain's economic policy was a muddled mess, and the GOP has to focus on fiscal responsibility if it wants to have a shot to regain seats in 2010. If President Obama turns to tax and spend as his primary economic policy as I expect he will, the GOP will have an opening to show that his policies will do nothing but extend the misery of the current financial mess.
The GOP should not pull its punches on dealing with the economic mess, and its underlying causes - the profligate spending by cities and states and the federal government on programs of dubious merit and the continued throwing of money at social problems has not solved them, even after 10, 20, 30, 50 or 60 years. New entitlements will only increase the costs on taxpayers. A coherent message must be crafted that addresses these concerns - noting especially that these folks aren't as well off under Democratic control of Congress since 2006, and that they've only gotten worse with Democrats in control of Congress and the White House.
The GOP must do more to address that issue.
It has to rebuild its ground game to get out the vote in urban areas, but to do that, it must provide a more credible economic and social policy that actually addresses concerns that those areas have. McCain's economic policy was a muddled mess, and the GOP has to focus on fiscal responsibility if it wants to have a shot to regain seats in 2010. If President Obama turns to tax and spend as his primary economic policy as I expect he will, the GOP will have an opening to show that his policies will do nothing but extend the misery of the current financial mess.
The GOP should not pull its punches on dealing with the economic mess, and its underlying causes - the profligate spending by cities and states and the federal government on programs of dubious merit and the continued throwing of money at social problems has not solved them, even after 10, 20, 30, 50 or 60 years. New entitlements will only increase the costs on taxpayers. A coherent message must be crafted that addresses these concerns - noting especially that these folks aren't as well off under Democratic control of Congress since 2006, and that they've only gotten worse with Democrats in control of Congress and the White House.
Ohio Suspends Helen Jones-Kelley For Her Actions
Well, this is actually a belated surprise. Helen Jones-Kelley, who authorized searches into Joe Wurzelbacher's records in Ohio databases, has been suspended from her job as investigators continue looking into her actions. Ohio Governor Ted Strickland finally got around to suspending her.
There was no legitimate reason for her, or anyone else, to conduct those searches. There are specific guidelines to carry out database searches, and they're specifically designed to prevent partisan abuse, which is precisely what Jones-Kelley engaged in. She had her subordinates carry out searches, despite the fact there is no policy to do so.
Suspension is only a good start. Criminal sanctions should be forthcoming as well.
Ohio Job & Family Services director Helen Jones-Kelley, a supporter of President-elect Barack Obama, was suspended after a check of state computers and state e-mail found connections to political fundraising, which is not allowed on state property.She gave the asinine answer that such searches of famous people were routinely conducted when Wurzelbacher became a household name as Joe the Plumber after he asked Barack Obama about his economic policy and Obama replied with the now infamous comments on redistribution of wealth.
The fundraising activity related to Obama's campaign, to which Jones-Kelley contributed $2,500.
"Today, I have decided to place Ohio Department of Job and Family Services Director Helen Jones-Kelley on paid administrative leave due to the possibility, as yet unconfirmed, that a state computer or state e-mail account was used to assist in political fundraising," Gov. Ted Strickland said in a statement.
Jones-Kelley was already under investigation by the state inspector general's office for authorizing a personal records search on Joseph Wurzelbacher, better known as Joe the Plumber.
"I have asked Inspector General Tom Charles to include this matter in his current, ongoing investigation," Strickland said. "Also, I have asked Cabinet Secretary Jan Allen to serve as acting director of the agency."
There was no legitimate reason for her, or anyone else, to conduct those searches. There are specific guidelines to carry out database searches, and they're specifically designed to prevent partisan abuse, which is precisely what Jones-Kelley engaged in. She had her subordinates carry out searches, despite the fact there is no policy to do so.
Suspension is only a good start. Criminal sanctions should be forthcoming as well.
What Gives?
The Empire State Building regularly changes its lighting patterns for various holidays and events, from religious observances to when sports teams win big games.
So why isn't the building management willing to provide a color scheme for the November 10th celebration of the 233rd anniversary of the founding of the United States Marine Corps at Tun Tavern in Philadelphia?
It makes absolutely no sense at all. There is no other lighting event scheduled on that day. The following day on the 11th, the building will have the red white and blue for Veterans Day and commemorating the reopening of the Intrepid Sea Air Space Museum (which actually reopens to the public today after a multimillion dollar rehabilitation of the Fighting I and its pier).
The Marine Expeditionary Unit assigned to the USS Bataan is in port this year to celebrate the reopening of the Intrepid, and some of those stationed on the ship may soon end up in Afghanistan or Iraq or some other far flung place around the world defending our liberties and strategic interests.
Considering that the nation owes its continued existence and safety to the men and women of the Corps, it's disrespectful and disgraceful that the building management couldn't see fit to honor these fine folks.
So why isn't the building management willing to provide a color scheme for the November 10th celebration of the 233rd anniversary of the founding of the United States Marine Corps at Tun Tavern in Philadelphia?
It makes absolutely no sense at all. There is no other lighting event scheduled on that day. The following day on the 11th, the building will have the red white and blue for Veterans Day and commemorating the reopening of the Intrepid Sea Air Space Museum (which actually reopens to the public today after a multimillion dollar rehabilitation of the Fighting I and its pier).
The Marine Expeditionary Unit assigned to the USS Bataan is in port this year to celebrate the reopening of the Intrepid, and some of those stationed on the ship may soon end up in Afghanistan or Iraq or some other far flung place around the world defending our liberties and strategic interests.
Considering that the nation owes its continued existence and safety to the men and women of the Corps, it's disrespectful and disgraceful that the building management couldn't see fit to honor these fine folks.
Friday, November 07, 2008
Pres-Elect Obama's New Chief of Staff Has Freddie Mac Issues
If he had a (R) after his name, the media might have made more of this. But Rahm Emanuel isn't a Republican. He's a Democrat enforcer that President Elect Barack Obama chose to be his Chief of Staff.
Emanuel is a tough guy, but he's got skeletons in his closet that should give people pause as to Obama's choice and judgment.
Emanuel was on the board of Freddie Mac when Freddie Mac was cooking the books. He didn't blow the whistle on the situation or the fact that the entity was about to go broke over the subprime mess, which he and his fellow Democrats chose to ignore for years in the name of affordable housing. As ABC News now reports:
Jammie also points out this particular issue with Emanuel's tax situation. Apparently, he doesn't pay any property taxes because he's declared his home the office of a charitable foundation. Nearby homes of similar size pay upwards of $6,000 a year in property taxes. Emanuel pays nothing.
Of course, I've pointed out previously that Emanuel has issues stemming from what he knew about the Tim Mahoney mess in Florida. He was responsible for getting Mahoney elected, and then learned about the affairs, and worked to keep the news from leaking. I'm curious as to why the media isn't digging deeper to find out what Emanuel knew about that situation.
UPDATE:
Hot Air notes the possible civil and criminal liability facing Emanuel if it can be shown he signed off on the bogus numbers generated by Freddie Mac.
Emanuel is a tough guy, but he's got skeletons in his closet that should give people pause as to Obama's choice and judgment.
Emanuel was on the board of Freddie Mac when Freddie Mac was cooking the books. He didn't blow the whistle on the situation or the fact that the entity was about to go broke over the subprime mess, which he and his fellow Democrats chose to ignore for years in the name of affordable housing. As ABC News now reports:
President-elect Barack Obama's newly appointed chief of staff, Rahm Emanuel, served on the board of directors of the federal mortgage firm Freddie Mac at a time when scandal was brewing at the troubled agency and the board failed to spot "red flags," according to government reports reviewed by ABCNews.com.No one has accused Emanuel of wrongdoing in those complaints, but one really ought to question his judgment and inability to note the serious problems facing Freddie Mac.
According to a complaint later filed by the Securities and Exchange Commission, Freddie Mac, known formally as the Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation, misreported profits by billions of dollars in order to deceive investors between the years 2000 and 2002.
Jammie also points out this particular issue with Emanuel's tax situation. Apparently, he doesn't pay any property taxes because he's declared his home the office of a charitable foundation. Nearby homes of similar size pay upwards of $6,000 a year in property taxes. Emanuel pays nothing.
Of course, I've pointed out previously that Emanuel has issues stemming from what he knew about the Tim Mahoney mess in Florida. He was responsible for getting Mahoney elected, and then learned about the affairs, and worked to keep the news from leaking. I'm curious as to why the media isn't digging deeper to find out what Emanuel knew about that situation.
UPDATE:
Hot Air notes the possible civil and criminal liability facing Emanuel if it can be shown he signed off on the bogus numbers generated by Freddie Mac.
This is no small matter. Had this happened when Sarbanes-Oxley was in effect, Emanuel would have had to sign off on those numbers under penalty of perjury. He could be liable for criminal prosecution. As it is, his actions and omissions as a board member may still result in civil and criminal liability, if the SEC discovers that he had a hand in the fraud committed at Freddie Mac, or if Emanuel knew about it and failed to act to stop it.
You Don't Say
This is going to be a new feature here. It's when media outlets report news that is so stunningly obvious, that you have to wonder what took people so long to realize something was wrong.
Today's story relates to the ongoing saga of the LIRR disability scam, which has cost taxpayers hundreds of millions of dollars in disability payments paid out to LIRR workers who claimed they had disabilities, and the federal board responsible for the disbursements rubber stamping the claims.
We now learn that there was absolutely no reason that any of those people should have gotten free lifetime passes to state park golf courses.
So far, officials have identified 215 people who hold Access Passes in a category assigned to railroad retirees, and an additional, unknown number improperly in the Social Security category.
Here's the fees at Bethpage Black:
Reservation Fee $4
Weekday Fee (18 Holes) Residents:$50.00
Non-Residents: $100.00
Weekend Fee (18 Holes) Residents: $60.00
Non-Residents: $120.00
The fees at the other four Bethpage golf courses are less, but still substantial.
There's no word on how often these people used the free perks, and their ultimate cost to taxpayers.
UPDATE:
Instapundit links. Thanks!
Today's story relates to the ongoing saga of the LIRR disability scam, which has cost taxpayers hundreds of millions of dollars in disability payments paid out to LIRR workers who claimed they had disabilities, and the federal board responsible for the disbursements rubber stamping the claims.
We now learn that there was absolutely no reason that any of those people should have gotten free lifetime passes to state park golf courses.
New York State’s parks officials have determined that there is no legal justification for hundreds of retired Long Island Rail Road workers on disability to be playing golf free in state-owned parks with passes intended for severely disabled people.Indeed, many Long Island golfers would love to be able to play Bethpage Black, one of the most famous courses in the US, if not the world, let alone play it for free. That's exactly what this perk enabled supposedly disabled LIRR retirees to do.
The laws and regulation governing the passes do not mention railroad workers with occupational disabilities, Eileen Larrabee, a spokeswoman for the Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation, said on Thursday. “They made a leap at some point along the line.”
The parks agency has not yet decided whether to rescind the passes or take other action, Ms. Larrabee added, saying she hoped to have “something more definitive to say in the next couple weeks.”
State park officials began reviewing the Access Pass program after The New York Times reported in September that in recent years more than 90 percent of the railroad’s career employees retired early and qualified for federal disability payments, which allowed them to play golf free.
So far, officials have identified 215 people who hold Access Passes in a category assigned to railroad retirees, and an additional, unknown number improperly in the Social Security category.
Here's the fees at Bethpage Black:
Reservation Fee $4
Weekday Fee (18 Holes) Residents:$50.00
Non-Residents: $100.00
Weekend Fee (18 Holes) Residents: $60.00
Non-Residents: $120.00
The fees at the other four Bethpage golf courses are less, but still substantial.
There's no word on how often these people used the free perks, and their ultimate cost to taxpayers.
UPDATE:
Instapundit links. Thanks!
Another Day, Another Taxing Proposal From Mayor Bloomberg
In addition to all the other taxes proposed by New York City Mayor Mike Bloomberg, he's now pushing the idea of taxing plastic bags. How very nanny state of him.
It makes good business sense to reduce bag usage, since businesses can lower their overhead - after all, not every item needs to be bagged, and you can reward people for not using the store's plastic or paper bags.
If imposed, this is yet another expense that supermarkets and stores would have to track, which is yet another additional cost of doing business in New York City at a time when businesses are struggling to hold on to customers.
Mayor Bloomberg wants to nickel and dime you at the grocery store - taxing you an extra 5 cents for every plastic bag you take home.This follows a measure in Seattle imposing a bag fee. The fact is that the market is already moving in a direction of lessened usage of bags. Some supermarkets are already pushing the notion of giving discounts for using your own reusable bags or reusing store bags. Ikea charges several pennies a bag to discourage using plastic bags. That's a market solution that makes far more sense than a nanny state solution that ends up being highly regressive.
The controversial charge could raise at least $16 million for the cash-strapped city while keeping tons of plastic out of landfills, city officials said Thursday - but some outraged shoppers aren't buying it.
"Bloomberg is a piece of work," Clemelda Gipson, 39, said outside a D'Agostino grocery store in Chelsea. "Food is expensive and now we have to pay for the bags, too? They should try to come up with ideas and solutions and not just more taxes."
Others said they would bring their own cloth bags rather than pay more at the store.
"I think it's a good idea. There is way too much plastic being used at the grocery stores anyways," said actress Denise Lute. "We need to be eco-conscious. If I'm charged a nickel it'll make me take my own bag."
New Yorkers use an estimated 1 billion plastic bags per year. City officials aren't sure what bags they plan to tax, or how they'd collect it - though they're considering allowing merchants to charge an extra penny per bag, giving them an incentive to track it.
It makes good business sense to reduce bag usage, since businesses can lower their overhead - after all, not every item needs to be bagged, and you can reward people for not using the store's plastic or paper bags.
If imposed, this is yet another expense that supermarkets and stores would have to track, which is yet another additional cost of doing business in New York City at a time when businesses are struggling to hold on to customers.
Thursday, November 06, 2008
Bloomberg Now Proposing Tax Hikes
First he floated the idea of significant cuts in spending and slashing the city workforce. Lost amid that if the fact that he's floating the idea of a 15% increase in taxes.
Note the timing.
Not only did he wait until after the election to announce the doom and gloom news, but he waited until after he signed the term limits extension law into effect. Do you really think that if he had made those announcements prior to the vote on term limits in the City Council it might have changed things? Do you think if he dropped the tax bomb on the city before the election, some folks might have seen things differently?
Perhaps. What is undeniable is that this is all too little too late.
The reason that the city is in the mess it is because it has been overspending for years on programs and city workers that it cannot afford. When times are flush, it isn't a problem, but times were predicted going sour for more than a year (or 8 if you count the moment that President Bush came into office and the economic swoon after 9/11), there wasn't enough of a belt tightening.
The same problems can be seen across the Hudson River in New Jersey, where profligate spending is still out of control despite all the warning signs on the horizon.
Note the timing.
Not only did he wait until after the election to announce the doom and gloom news, but he waited until after he signed the term limits extension law into effect. Do you really think that if he had made those announcements prior to the vote on term limits in the City Council it might have changed things? Do you think if he dropped the tax bomb on the city before the election, some folks might have seen things differently?
Perhaps. What is undeniable is that this is all too little too late.
The reason that the city is in the mess it is because it has been overspending for years on programs and city workers that it cannot afford. When times are flush, it isn't a problem, but times were predicted going sour for more than a year (or 8 if you count the moment that President Bush came into office and the economic swoon after 9/11), there wasn't enough of a belt tightening.
The same problems can be seen across the Hudson River in New Jersey, where profligate spending is still out of control despite all the warning signs on the horizon.
No Federal Charges For Spitzer
This is somewhat surprising. Disgraced former New York Governor Eliot Spitzer wont be facing federal charges.
U.S. Attorney Michael Garcia said investigators found no evidence that Spitzer or his office misused public or campaign funds for prostitution. Federal prosecutors typically do not prosecute clients of prostitution rings.
"In light of the policy of the Department of Justice with respect to prostitution offenses and the longstanding practice of this Office, as well as Mr. Spitzer's acceptance of responsibility for his conduct, we have concluded that the public interest would not be further advanced by filing criminal charges in this matter," Garcia said in a statement.
A remorseful Spitzer issued a statement in which he expressed relief that he will not face charges.
Putting Together Obama's Foreign Policy Team (and the Rest of the Cabinet)
Jina Hassan of Foreign Policy sent over the following link to the foreign policy choices by several leading experts. It seems the consensus pick for Defense Secretary is the existing Defense Secretary, Robert Gates, but I've heard he wants no part of after Inauguration Day. Some of the other selections are interesting, ranging from Strobe Talbott or James Baker at Secretary of State to Hillary Clinton or Warren Buffett as Treasury Secretary.
I think it's a game of name recognition and throwing names out there to see what sticks.
I don't think many of these choices will end up coming to fruition, but they do make for interesting speculation.
UPDATE:
Going down the line, here are some of my predictions for Obama's cabinet.
Secretary of State: Strobe Talbott
National Security Adviser: James Steinberg
Director of Central Intelligence: Richard Holbrooke
Director of Homeland Security: Jane Harman
The preceding four names are interchangeable and I can imagine any of the four taking any of the other four positions. All are considered credible and experienced, which is an absolute must given Obama's own complete and utter lack of experience on national security and foreign policy. Susan Rice should also be in consideration for at least an undersecretary of one of the aforementioned posts, if not the top slot at State or as National Security Adviser.
Attorney General: Current New York State Attorney General Andrew Cuomo
US Ambassador to United Nations: Caroline Kennedy - who gets rewarded for her assistance in picking Joe Biden.
Secretary of Defense: Sen. Chuck Hagel or Sen. Richard Lugar (R-Ind.) (here's your bipartisanship)
Secretary of Interior: Sen. Ken Salazar
Secretary of the Treasury: Robert Reich, and while I think some people are floating the names of Mayor Mike Bloomberg or New Jersey Governor Jon Corzine, Reich has the inside edge as an early supporter of Obama and even has a blog. Bloomberg craves being in the spotlight, and cabinet position doesn't work for him. Corzine could go for this, if offered. New Jersey would love it if Corzine disappeared, leaving Richard Codey in charge (again).
Press Secretary: Chris Matthews (just seeing if you're paying attention)
Secretary of Energy: I know many folks are throwing out the name of Arnold Schwarzenegger, but I don't see that happening. Bill Richardson has a better chance of having this slot than Arnold.
Secretary of Housing and Urban Development: Rep. Jesse Jackson Jr. (D-Il)
Secretary of Education: Bill Ayers (only kidding); Bob Kerrey (current President of the New School in NYC)
Secretary of Health and Human Services: Former New Hampshire Gov. Howard Dean (who also headed up the DNC)
Secretary of Agriculture: Former Iowa Gov. Tom Vilsack
Secretary of Commerce: Richard Parsons (via AOLTimeWarner)
Secretary of Labor: Tom Daschle (former US Senator)
Secretary of Veterans Affairs: Former Sen. Max Cleland (D-Ga.)
Secretary of Transportation: Iris Weinshall, the former head of the NYC Dept. of Transportation, and wife of Sen. Charles Schumer (D-NY).
Politico has their own thoughts on the matter.
UPDATE:
The New York Times proffers its own list, and notes that many are keeping mum lest they jeopardize their chances before confirmation with making statements that might get them in trouble.
I think it's a game of name recognition and throwing names out there to see what sticks.
I don't think many of these choices will end up coming to fruition, but they do make for interesting speculation.
UPDATE:
Going down the line, here are some of my predictions for Obama's cabinet.
Secretary of State: Strobe Talbott
National Security Adviser: James Steinberg
Director of Central Intelligence: Richard Holbrooke
Director of Homeland Security: Jane Harman
The preceding four names are interchangeable and I can imagine any of the four taking any of the other four positions. All are considered credible and experienced, which is an absolute must given Obama's own complete and utter lack of experience on national security and foreign policy. Susan Rice should also be in consideration for at least an undersecretary of one of the aforementioned posts, if not the top slot at State or as National Security Adviser.
Attorney General: Current New York State Attorney General Andrew Cuomo
US Ambassador to United Nations: Caroline Kennedy - who gets rewarded for her assistance in picking Joe Biden.
Secretary of Defense: Sen. Chuck Hagel or Sen. Richard Lugar (R-Ind.) (here's your bipartisanship)
Secretary of Interior: Sen. Ken Salazar
Secretary of the Treasury: Robert Reich, and while I think some people are floating the names of Mayor Mike Bloomberg or New Jersey Governor Jon Corzine, Reich has the inside edge as an early supporter of Obama and even has a blog. Bloomberg craves being in the spotlight, and cabinet position doesn't work for him. Corzine could go for this, if offered. New Jersey would love it if Corzine disappeared, leaving Richard Codey in charge (again).
Press Secretary: Chris Matthews (just seeing if you're paying attention)
Secretary of Energy: I know many folks are throwing out the name of Arnold Schwarzenegger, but I don't see that happening. Bill Richardson has a better chance of having this slot than Arnold.
Secretary of Housing and Urban Development: Rep. Jesse Jackson Jr. (D-Il)
Secretary of Education: Bill Ayers (only kidding); Bob Kerrey (current President of the New School in NYC)
Secretary of Health and Human Services: Former New Hampshire Gov. Howard Dean (who also headed up the DNC)
Secretary of Agriculture: Former Iowa Gov. Tom Vilsack
Secretary of Commerce: Richard Parsons (via AOLTimeWarner)
Secretary of Labor: Tom Daschle (former US Senator)
Secretary of Veterans Affairs: Former Sen. Max Cleland (D-Ga.)
Secretary of Transportation: Iris Weinshall, the former head of the NYC Dept. of Transportation, and wife of Sen. Charles Schumer (D-NY).
Politico has their own thoughts on the matter.
UPDATE:
The New York Times proffers its own list, and notes that many are keeping mum lest they jeopardize their chances before confirmation with making statements that might get them in trouble.
The Hits Keep On Coming
Israel has closed its border crossings with Gaza after yesterday's major terrorist attack. Hamas and their terror minions responded with launching more kassams into Israel, including into Sderot. They threaten to launch still more.
Oh, you mean you haven't heard about the major terrorist attack yesterday (that is if you weren't reading here)? More than 40 kassams and mortars were fired at Israel and several landed in Ashkelon, injuring three people. That came after Israeli forces took out a terror cell planning on using a tunnel to infiltrate Israel with the express purpose of kidnapping and/or killing Israelis.
Hamas has never stopped plotting attacks against Israel, and to think that the hudna is the basis on which a lasting peace can be achieved is just fooling yourself. Hamas has not altered its central ideological and theological goal - the destruction of Israel. Neither has Fatah for that matter, but Fatah is at least paying lip service to the political process and Israel figures that Fatah is more likely to work through the political process to destroy Israel than overt violence, although that too is a foolish proposition given Fatah's propensity to engage in violence through its subordinates and wholly owned terrorist subsidiaries like the al Aqsa Martyr's Brigade.
UPDATE:
Still more kassams fired into Israel. No reports of injuries. I can't wait for President Obama to start calling Hamas a partner in peace. It's only a matter of time.
Oh, you mean you haven't heard about the major terrorist attack yesterday (that is if you weren't reading here)? More than 40 kassams and mortars were fired at Israel and several landed in Ashkelon, injuring three people. That came after Israeli forces took out a terror cell planning on using a tunnel to infiltrate Israel with the express purpose of kidnapping and/or killing Israelis.
Hamas has never stopped plotting attacks against Israel, and to think that the hudna is the basis on which a lasting peace can be achieved is just fooling yourself. Hamas has not altered its central ideological and theological goal - the destruction of Israel. Neither has Fatah for that matter, but Fatah is at least paying lip service to the political process and Israel figures that Fatah is more likely to work through the political process to destroy Israel than overt violence, although that too is a foolish proposition given Fatah's propensity to engage in violence through its subordinates and wholly owned terrorist subsidiaries like the al Aqsa Martyr's Brigade.
UPDATE:
Still more kassams fired into Israel. No reports of injuries. I can't wait for President Obama to start calling Hamas a partner in peace. It's only a matter of time.
South Park Skewers The Election Results
I'm not quite sure how they did it (they probably had the two outcomes in the can and showed the one appropriate for the election outcome), but South Park managed to carry off one of the better episodes in recent history. It was downright hilarious.
Without giving too much away, McCain supporters believe the end of the world is at hand, while Obama supporters get all "change-y" at the news that Obama has won the election and party just a little too hard. Little did anyone know that this was all preordained in order to carry out a bipartisan operation, but not without a couple of issues cropping up.
Without giving too much away, McCain supporters believe the end of the world is at hand, while Obama supporters get all "change-y" at the news that Obama has won the election and party just a little too hard. Little did anyone know that this was all preordained in order to carry out a bipartisan operation, but not without a couple of issues cropping up.
Wednesday, November 05, 2008
Agriprocessors Seeks Bankruptcy Protection
One of the nation's largest kosher meat producers is seeking Ch. 11 bankruptcy protection. Agriprocessors, which produces kosher meat under the Aaron Rubashkin label and is sold at supermarkets nationally such as Albertson’s, Kroger, Shop Rite, Wal-Mart, Trader Joe’s, Ralph’s, Pathmark, and H.E. Butt, was the focus of an immigration and customs investigation that revealed 300 workers were illegal aliens. There were also allegations of child labor law violations, which were referred to the state's attorney general.
In its filing, the company blamed the May 12 raid:
In its filing, the company blamed the May 12 raid:
The company says it owes between 200 and 999 creditors $50 million to $100 million, according to records filed in U.S. District Court. Agriprocessors lists assets of $100 million to $500 million.This will have a significant effect on kosher food availability in some parts of the country and may lead to higher prices for kosher meat.
The company's board of directors met Tuesday and decided to file for bankruptcy a day before a scheduled hearing on a lawsuit from the company's largest lender, First Bank of St. Louis.
First Bank alleged in a federal lawsuit Friday that Agriprocessors defaulted on a $35 million loan and overstated how much money it had available. The bank is seeking to foreclose on the Postville plant and appoint a third party to oversee the company's assets.
An affidavit filed with the bankruptcy petition says the bankruptcy will temporarily halt the lawsuit.
Plant owner Abraham Rubashkin stated in the affidavit that before the raid, the plant had annual revenue of more than $300 million and employed about 1,000 people. After arrests of about 389 people, the plant is down to 250 to 300 employees, Rubashkin said in the document.
Among the company's largest creditors are Jacobson Staffing Corp.on, of Des Moines, which Agriprocessors owes $845,000. The company owes $806,970 to Weyerhaeuser Paper Co. of Chicago.
The Belt Tightening Comes Too Little Too Late
Mayor Mike Bloomberg, who had spent the past couple of years pushing for tax hikes, including the congestion pricing tax, is finally getting around to doing what should have been done a long time ago.
He's finally proposing budget cuts and belt tightening.
He's also going to increase more taxes, including the income tax, and take away the property tax rebate.
Bloomberg is also eliminating the 7% temporary property tax break.
Note that this all comes on the day after the election was held. New York City officials and the Mayor knew that this was needed, and they waited until after the election. Nice.
He's finally proposing budget cuts and belt tightening.
He's also going to increase more taxes, including the income tax, and take away the property tax rebate.
The mayor will also reduce the city’s work force by 3,000 employees and cancel the next training class for more than 1,100 police cadets as he seeks to help plug an anticipated $4 billion budget shortfall over the next two years.UPDATE:
The plan illustrates the extent to which the global economic crisis is forcing local governments — even those that have been in good economic health, like New York City’s — to downgrade their budget projections. It also suggests that Mr. Bloomberg — who just signed a controversial bill extending term limits on Monday — is anticipating intense and difficult negotiations with the City Council, and therefore trying to make his arguments as early as possible.
“It will require sacrifice from every city agency and in some senses, every New Yorker,” said Edward Skyler, the city’s deputy mayor for operations. “But we need to take these painful but necessary steps now; delaying the inevitable will only make it worse.”
In terms of staffing, Mr. Bloomberg is proposing to lay off 500 city workers and shed another 2,500 through attrition.
Among the hardest hit would be the Department of Education, with Mr. Bloomberg proposing to eliminate 475 positions — mostly in administration — of which 219 would be layoffs. But Bloomberg officials say that such cuts, while difficult, would not affect classrooms.
Bloomberg is also eliminating the 7% temporary property tax break.
Note that this all comes on the day after the election was held. New York City officials and the Mayor knew that this was needed, and they waited until after the election. Nice.
Obama's First International Challenge Awaits
It didn't take long. Israel preempted a Palestinian terror attack in Gaza, killing five Hamas thugs as they were preparing to infiltrate Israel via a tunnel across the border. Hamas responded by launching 40+ kassam rockets and mortars into Israel, some slamming into Ashkelon and the Negev.
How did this latest incident happen?
The strategic hudna in place for several months has had tense moments before, but this is one of the largest attack on both sides since the hudna was declared. It's also the first since the US voted for its next President. This is just a taste of what Obama will have to look forward to from day one.
UPDATE:
In a related note, President Elect Obama begins his security briefings along with Vice President Elect Biden.
AP runs this story attempting to highlight the crises facing Obama, but it comes off as little more than an op-ed.
Besides, the President of the US isn't running a popularity contest. He's supposed to be doing what is best for the US to protect its national security. Doing the right thing isn't always the popular thing. Obama will learn that lesson very quickly. So will his supporters.
How did this latest incident happen?
On Tuesday night seven IDF soldiers were wounded and six gunmen were reported killed in clashes which erupted when IDF special forces entered Gaza in order to blow up a tunnel dug by Hamas terrorists for the purpose of kidnapping IDF soldiers.The attacks by the terrorists continue. Three Israelis have been injured from the kassam and mortar attacks, including a girl being treated for shock.
The strategic hudna in place for several months has had tense moments before, but this is one of the largest attack on both sides since the hudna was declared. It's also the first since the US voted for its next President. This is just a taste of what Obama will have to look forward to from day one.
UPDATE:
In a related note, President Elect Obama begins his security briefings along with Vice President Elect Biden.
The briefings typically last 45 minutes to an hour, but Obama's initial one is expected to be longer. A U.S. intelligence official speaking on condition of anonymity said Joe Biden, the vice president-elect, also will begin receiving briefings this week.UPDATE:
The president's daily brief that Obama will receive is mostly written by the Central Intelligence Agency and will include the most critical overnight intelligence for the president. They sometimes dig deeply into a specific topic to give the president an in-depth understanding.
AP runs this story attempting to highlight the crises facing Obama, but it comes off as little more than an op-ed.
Obama's vision for sweeping foreign policy changes could have a profound effect on the nation's quest to hold onto its role as sole superpower.I'm sure Iran and the terrorists in al Qaeda are cheering at the possibility of US withdrawal from Iraq. Appeasement with enemies of the West and of all things that Americans hold dear - the very notions of liberty and freedom - are at stake when you seek to hold talks with those who despise all those same concepts. That means meetings without preconditions with the likes of Hugo Chavez, Raul Castro, and the Iranians will be spectacular failures.
The change in course includes globally popular choices such as a phased withdrawal of combat troops from Iraq and strong action on climate change, an issue that many say was neglected by the Bush administration.
Other changes Obama plans are more controversial.
He wants to increase U.S. troop strength in Afghanistan, which he views as the frontline in the battle against al-Qaida. And he has struck a more conciliatory stance with nations shunned as pariahs under the Bush administration.
Besides, the President of the US isn't running a popularity contest. He's supposed to be doing what is best for the US to protect its national security. Doing the right thing isn't always the popular thing. Obama will learn that lesson very quickly. So will his supporters.
To The Winners Goes The Spoils
So, which politicians are going to stand to benefit from their support of President Elect Barack Obama? How will Obama and the Democrats govern? It starts with who Obama selects as his closest advisers and cabinet members, as he still remains an enigma over who exactly he is and what he intends to do.
New Jersey Governor Jon Corzine may be headed for a cabinet position, although he's downplaying that scenario. The Star Ledger positions him for Treasury Secretary. At least New Jersey would have Richard Codey again running things in Trenton.
Corzine's chief of staff, Lisa Jackson, is being touted for a slot at the EPA.
Rep. Rahm Emanuel may become Obama's Chief of Staff. He's certainly at the top of the list, and the Illinois Democrat has been in Obama's corner from the outset.
Other names that might come up in discussion for high level positions will follow.
UPDATE:
It's official. Emanuel has accepted Obama's offer to be his Chief of Staff. It's Chicago politics after all, and he's gone with the enforcer.
Up next? Secretary of State John Kerry? I know that's a rumor, but would Kerry really want to give up his cushy job in the Senate to have to actually do real work? After all, his seat is safe as long as he wants it. Perhaps he figures it's the next best thing to being President - getting to run around and impose the global test on limitations of US foreign policy.
New Jersey Governor Jon Corzine may be headed for a cabinet position, although he's downplaying that scenario. The Star Ledger positions him for Treasury Secretary. At least New Jersey would have Richard Codey again running things in Trenton.
Corzine's chief of staff, Lisa Jackson, is being touted for a slot at the EPA.
Rep. Rahm Emanuel may become Obama's Chief of Staff. He's certainly at the top of the list, and the Illinois Democrat has been in Obama's corner from the outset.
Other names that might come up in discussion for high level positions will follow.
UPDATE:
It's official. Emanuel has accepted Obama's offer to be his Chief of Staff. It's Chicago politics after all, and he's gone with the enforcer.
Up next? Secretary of State John Kerry? I know that's a rumor, but would Kerry really want to give up his cushy job in the Senate to have to actually do real work? After all, his seat is safe as long as he wants it. Perhaps he figures it's the next best thing to being President - getting to run around and impose the global test on limitations of US foreign policy.
Reflections on the GOP Losses
While Democrats get to cheer and gloat over their victories and the historic win of President-elect Barack Obama, the Republican party has to begin some serious and thoughtful soul-searching.
Some folks will point out that the Obama campaign used a tremendous advantage of the media and ground game. Some will even point out the incredible amount of money Obama spent to win the Presidency. Those are fair points, but they do not address why Obama's empty slogans of hope and change won over a majority of Americans.
How did John McCain come so close and yet fail so miserably? How did Republicans, who were supposed to be the party of fiscal responsibility deviate so far from that core message?
It comes down to economics.
Obama was able to paint McCain as McSame - the same kind of economic policies that have led to the current financial troubles and the toxic paper meltdown. That isn't fair to McCain, but McCain didn't do himself any favors by pushing for the bailout either. Polls generally showed a very close election up until the point when McCain suggested he might opt out of the second debate because of the financial crisis. Obama was able to claim the mantle of reformer, a title that Republicans had held since Reagan was swept into office in 1980.
At that point, it became inevitable that Obama could point out that McCain was pursuing the same policy as the Bush economic plan (even though Democrats were pushing for it in Congress and needed McCain and the House GOP to provide cover).
Pushing for a bailout of companies that made bad business decisions (even if those decisions were forced on them by the government intent upon increasing the number of affordable homes and increased homeownership rates in minority communities) was a stupendously bad idea.
Of course, we're now going to hear claims how the economy is in dire straits and that we need still more bailouts - this time focused on individuals rather than the banks that are still reeling from those bad business decisions.
In the hope for a quick panacea, the Republicans, and the Bush Administration threw fiscal responsibility out the window. It cost them. It will continue to cost them, and the rest of us dearly for years to come.
So, how does the Republican party fix itself?
For starters, it begins with focusing on two areas. The economy and national defense.
The economy:
Republicans must renew their pledge for fiscal austerity and responsibility. They must work to eliminate earmarks, fight new entitlements that are little more than government issued Ponzi schemes, and fight to scale back existing failed entitlement programs. They must hold the line on taxes, demanding that tax hikes be taken off the table indefinitely - and to frame the issue of the 2010 Bush tax cut phase out as the tax hike it truly is. Letting those cuts expire will result in massive tax increases, and there's no way around that. Say it early. Say it often.
National Security:
As for national security, Republicans must hold the line on defense spending, which is still at near historical lows as measured by a percentage of GNP/GDP. The government's core mission is to protect and defend the nation from foreign threats, and harsh language or the UN are not going to deter enemies that seek to do us harm, let alone terrorists who openly ignore and flout international norms and conventions.
A hasty departure from Iraq will increase the likelihood of disaster there, even as we're witnessing a stabilization and handover of Iraqi back to the Iraqi government. Republicans must work to ensure that we do not cut off funding to support Iraq, or else we'll see a repeat of Vietnam following our departure in 1973. It took two years, but Democrats finally cut funding, resulting in the disastrous collapse of the South Vietnamese government and ensuing bloodbath.
Republicans must also guard against any attempts to cut funding for the war in Afghanistan, which includes a hunting compact with Pakistan's government to go after Islamists there. The terrorists simply cannot be bargained with.
Democrats did a masterful job of painting the notion that the war in Iraq took money that could be used elsewhere - entitlements or programs back home, but that's a misleading notion at best.
From there, Republicans can focus on a third area: ground game and the future.
Republicans need to cultivate a new generation of leaders who can take their message into longtime Democrat strongholds and have them resonate with moderates, independents, and even old-time Reagan Democrats. Far too many states have been conceded to the Democrats for far too long that you've got a sclerotic political system that amounts to one-party rule. That means contesting elections up and down the ballot - from town alderman up to statewide offices.
It doesn't mean that you throw millionaire after millionaire against established politicians in the hopes that they catch lightning in a bottle, which is the New Jersey experience. It takes a message. It take hard work, and it takes the development of a farm system in which talented people are cultivated to work through the ranks to seek higher office.
If the Republicans want to turn things around, they have to start today.
UPDATE:
Michelle Malkin has some advice to dispirited GOPers. AJ Strata notes the need for an optimistic outlook. I'd counsel pragmatism. Ragnar says that conservatives cannot take a break now.
Don Surber says the GOP needs to get back to its roots.
Macranger thinks that the problems are just beginning for the media and the Obama Administration. All those lofty expectations are going to come crashing down with the reality that they are out of sync with what most Americans expected.
One thing I don't expect is to see a demonization of Obama along the lines of what the left did to President Bush. I, for one, respect the Office of the White House too much to let that happen. Obama's politics are fair game, his personal connections are fair game, but attacks on him personally aren't. I fault his character and judgment, and I hope I'm wrong about that - for our nation's sake.
Others weighing in include Sister Toldjah and Stop the ACLU has a roundup of reaction.
UPDATE:
The Anchoress has a great posting on the matter, and on the subject of respect towards the outgoing President, George W. Bush.
UPDATE:
Jules Crittenden notes that American is still here, and that the challenges of yesterday remain challenges today. What is different is the approach that Obama intends to take.
UPDATE:
Two sides of the same coin. David Frum notes two paths for the GOP to take. One involves following the Palin route, and that might result in some wins, but a long term losing strategy as a result of changing demographics and economic positions of core constituencies, or adjusting the tone and tenor of the debate back to the core issues of fiscal responsibility. Jeff Flake goes deeper into this, and addresses many of the concerns I've had with the national spending spree for years.
Some folks will point out that the Obama campaign used a tremendous advantage of the media and ground game. Some will even point out the incredible amount of money Obama spent to win the Presidency. Those are fair points, but they do not address why Obama's empty slogans of hope and change won over a majority of Americans.
How did John McCain come so close and yet fail so miserably? How did Republicans, who were supposed to be the party of fiscal responsibility deviate so far from that core message?
It comes down to economics.
Obama was able to paint McCain as McSame - the same kind of economic policies that have led to the current financial troubles and the toxic paper meltdown. That isn't fair to McCain, but McCain didn't do himself any favors by pushing for the bailout either. Polls generally showed a very close election up until the point when McCain suggested he might opt out of the second debate because of the financial crisis. Obama was able to claim the mantle of reformer, a title that Republicans had held since Reagan was swept into office in 1980.
At that point, it became inevitable that Obama could point out that McCain was pursuing the same policy as the Bush economic plan (even though Democrats were pushing for it in Congress and needed McCain and the House GOP to provide cover).
Pushing for a bailout of companies that made bad business decisions (even if those decisions were forced on them by the government intent upon increasing the number of affordable homes and increased homeownership rates in minority communities) was a stupendously bad idea.
Of course, we're now going to hear claims how the economy is in dire straits and that we need still more bailouts - this time focused on individuals rather than the banks that are still reeling from those bad business decisions.
In the hope for a quick panacea, the Republicans, and the Bush Administration threw fiscal responsibility out the window. It cost them. It will continue to cost them, and the rest of us dearly for years to come.
So, how does the Republican party fix itself?
For starters, it begins with focusing on two areas. The economy and national defense.
The economy:
Republicans must renew their pledge for fiscal austerity and responsibility. They must work to eliminate earmarks, fight new entitlements that are little more than government issued Ponzi schemes, and fight to scale back existing failed entitlement programs. They must hold the line on taxes, demanding that tax hikes be taken off the table indefinitely - and to frame the issue of the 2010 Bush tax cut phase out as the tax hike it truly is. Letting those cuts expire will result in massive tax increases, and there's no way around that. Say it early. Say it often.
National Security:
As for national security, Republicans must hold the line on defense spending, which is still at near historical lows as measured by a percentage of GNP/GDP. The government's core mission is to protect and defend the nation from foreign threats, and harsh language or the UN are not going to deter enemies that seek to do us harm, let alone terrorists who openly ignore and flout international norms and conventions.
A hasty departure from Iraq will increase the likelihood of disaster there, even as we're witnessing a stabilization and handover of Iraqi back to the Iraqi government. Republicans must work to ensure that we do not cut off funding to support Iraq, or else we'll see a repeat of Vietnam following our departure in 1973. It took two years, but Democrats finally cut funding, resulting in the disastrous collapse of the South Vietnamese government and ensuing bloodbath.
Republicans must also guard against any attempts to cut funding for the war in Afghanistan, which includes a hunting compact with Pakistan's government to go after Islamists there. The terrorists simply cannot be bargained with.
Democrats did a masterful job of painting the notion that the war in Iraq took money that could be used elsewhere - entitlements or programs back home, but that's a misleading notion at best.
From there, Republicans can focus on a third area: ground game and the future.
Republicans need to cultivate a new generation of leaders who can take their message into longtime Democrat strongholds and have them resonate with moderates, independents, and even old-time Reagan Democrats. Far too many states have been conceded to the Democrats for far too long that you've got a sclerotic political system that amounts to one-party rule. That means contesting elections up and down the ballot - from town alderman up to statewide offices.
It doesn't mean that you throw millionaire after millionaire against established politicians in the hopes that they catch lightning in a bottle, which is the New Jersey experience. It takes a message. It take hard work, and it takes the development of a farm system in which talented people are cultivated to work through the ranks to seek higher office.
If the Republicans want to turn things around, they have to start today.
UPDATE:
Michelle Malkin has some advice to dispirited GOPers. AJ Strata notes the need for an optimistic outlook. I'd counsel pragmatism. Ragnar says that conservatives cannot take a break now.
Don Surber says the GOP needs to get back to its roots.
Macranger thinks that the problems are just beginning for the media and the Obama Administration. All those lofty expectations are going to come crashing down with the reality that they are out of sync with what most Americans expected.
One thing I don't expect is to see a demonization of Obama along the lines of what the left did to President Bush. I, for one, respect the Office of the White House too much to let that happen. Obama's politics are fair game, his personal connections are fair game, but attacks on him personally aren't. I fault his character and judgment, and I hope I'm wrong about that - for our nation's sake.
Others weighing in include Sister Toldjah and Stop the ACLU has a roundup of reaction.
UPDATE:
The Anchoress has a great posting on the matter, and on the subject of respect towards the outgoing President, George W. Bush.
UPDATE:
Jules Crittenden notes that American is still here, and that the challenges of yesterday remain challenges today. What is different is the approach that Obama intends to take.
UPDATE:
Two sides of the same coin. David Frum notes two paths for the GOP to take. One involves following the Palin route, and that might result in some wins, but a long term losing strategy as a result of changing demographics and economic positions of core constituencies, or adjusting the tone and tenor of the debate back to the core issues of fiscal responsibility. Jeff Flake goes deeper into this, and addresses many of the concerns I've had with the national spending spree for years.
Congratulations to President Elect Barack H. Obama
It pains me to say it, but congratulations to the next President of the United States, Barack H. Obama of Illinois. Obama ran an exceptional race and surprised many with how well he ran. He's defeated the notion once and for all that we are a nation of racists (not that we've been that way for more than a generation, but that's besides the point). Obama has made history and his supporters have won the right to bask in that adulation.
Just don't let it get to your head, because your first real test at executive leadership is right around the corner - as in today. Obama has to start making important decisions, including cabinet positions, judicial nominees, and there is no higher pay grade in the nation on which he can defer. Obama is now going to be the one who decides. Choose wisely.
I can only hope that Obama surrounds himself with those who have more wisdom and experience than he has shown thus far (Rezko, Ayers, Dohrn, Wright, Pflegler) and that you do your utmost to keep us safe from all threats foreign and domestic.
I hope that Obama has enough sense not to destroy the economy with your tax and spend plans and that your fellow Democrats in Congress don't go overboard.
I hope that Obama doesn't decide to take his fellow Democrats' advice and cut and run from Iraq, slash the defense budget in a fit of fury and retribution for being incapable of doing so since 2003.
Of course, I'll be writing the entire time as a member of the loyal opposition and watching as Obama and his fellow Democrats push through an agenda to the detriment of the nation as we have witnessed a majority of the nation decide to take a vacation from history. In their demands for hope and change, they've thrown their lot in with the guy who has no experience, but a great slogan.
The only problem is that history doesn't take vacations, and neither do our nation's enemies. They're still lurking, and they'll be waiting. May Obama have the wisdom, judgment, and capability to meet those threats.
I also fully expect that Obama and his fellow Democrats will move swiftly to shut down operations in Iraq and will slash spending on national defense. Those are decisions that will affect us for a generation or more, and our enemies will take due notice. At the same time, I also expect the tax increases to come fast and furious, as will the inflation and unemployment.
I wish that wasn't the case, but having seen your policy pronouncements during the campaign, your associations, and the plans concocted by your fellow Democrats, I hope to be proven wrong. The sad thing is that I fully expect to be proven right.
UPDATE:
James Lileks points out that history has a way of pushing people in unexpected directions. Obama will be facing many a challenge and will have his moments of surprise and disappointment - as will anyone filling the Office of the President. We can only hope that he has more moments of greatness than disappointment.
UPDATE:
Steve Den Beste has a very thought provoking post on what Obama's ascension to the Presidency will mean. The key grafs:
It's time for the Democrats to put up or shut up. It's also time for the GOP to do some serious soul searching. My advice on that point? That's going to be another post.
Just don't let it get to your head, because your first real test at executive leadership is right around the corner - as in today. Obama has to start making important decisions, including cabinet positions, judicial nominees, and there is no higher pay grade in the nation on which he can defer. Obama is now going to be the one who decides. Choose wisely.
I can only hope that Obama surrounds himself with those who have more wisdom and experience than he has shown thus far (Rezko, Ayers, Dohrn, Wright, Pflegler) and that you do your utmost to keep us safe from all threats foreign and domestic.
I hope that Obama has enough sense not to destroy the economy with your tax and spend plans and that your fellow Democrats in Congress don't go overboard.
I hope that Obama doesn't decide to take his fellow Democrats' advice and cut and run from Iraq, slash the defense budget in a fit of fury and retribution for being incapable of doing so since 2003.
Of course, I'll be writing the entire time as a member of the loyal opposition and watching as Obama and his fellow Democrats push through an agenda to the detriment of the nation as we have witnessed a majority of the nation decide to take a vacation from history. In their demands for hope and change, they've thrown their lot in with the guy who has no experience, but a great slogan.
The only problem is that history doesn't take vacations, and neither do our nation's enemies. They're still lurking, and they'll be waiting. May Obama have the wisdom, judgment, and capability to meet those threats.
I also fully expect that Obama and his fellow Democrats will move swiftly to shut down operations in Iraq and will slash spending on national defense. Those are decisions that will affect us for a generation or more, and our enemies will take due notice. At the same time, I also expect the tax increases to come fast and furious, as will the inflation and unemployment.
I wish that wasn't the case, but having seen your policy pronouncements during the campaign, your associations, and the plans concocted by your fellow Democrats, I hope to be proven wrong. The sad thing is that I fully expect to be proven right.
UPDATE:
James Lileks points out that history has a way of pushing people in unexpected directions. Obama will be facing many a challenge and will have his moments of surprise and disappointment - as will anyone filling the Office of the President. We can only hope that he has more moments of greatness than disappointment.
UPDATE:
Steve Den Beste has a very thought provoking post on what Obama's ascension to the Presidency will mean. The key grafs:
The President of the United States is the most powerful political figure in the world, but as national executives go his powers are actually quite restricted. Obama will become President, but he won't be dictator or king, let alone deity. He still has to work with the House and the Senate, and he still has to live within Constitutional restrictions, and with a judiciary that he mostly didn't appoint.So, Democrats no longer have any excuses. They've got the power that they've been craving, and can't blame obstructionist Republicans if they fall flat on their faces.
The main reason this will be a "coming of age" moment is that now Obama and the Democrats have to put up or shut up. Obama got elected by making himself a blank slate, with vapid promises about "hope" and "change" -- but now he actually has to do something. Now he has to reveal his true agenda. And with the Democrats also having a majority in both chambers of Congress, now the Democrats really have to lead. And they're not going to do a very good job of it. It's going to be amusing to watch.
It's time for the Democrats to put up or shut up. It's also time for the GOP to do some serious soul searching. My advice on that point? That's going to be another post.
Tuesday, November 04, 2008
The Crooks Still Inhabit Congress
Rep. William Jefferson (D-LA) easily won reelection in Louisiana despite law enforcement finding $90,000 stashed in his freezer, while the same could be said of Rep. Charles Rangel (D-NY), who as Chairman of the House Ways and Means Committee was in charge of writing tax law, but never could figure out how to pay all those taxes he owed over the years.
At the same time, Rep. John Murtha (D-PA) won reelection despite the fact that he called his constituents racists and rednecks. It truly is amazing to see the cognitive dissonance involved in that one. Murtha will be reelected until he either dies in office or retires. And even then, I'm not sure that he wont continue to be reelected.
These three members of the House, along with their fellow Democrats will be setting policy for the next two years. Get used to higher taxes and fees, because that's their policy prescription.
On the other hand, we do get to say goodbye to Rep. Tim Mahoney (D-FL), who was bumped from Congress after he was found to be engaging in multiple affairs and may have used federal funds in the process of silencing his paramours.
At the state level, New York's State Senate appears on the verge of having a Democratic majority for the first time since the Great Depression. I'm sure that will work out famously.
UPDATE 11/05/2008:
This came in after I had already finished blogging for the evening, but Sen. Ted Stevens (R-AK/Felon) was reelected by his constituents in Alaska. Nice.
At the same time, Rep. John Murtha (D-PA) won reelection despite the fact that he called his constituents racists and rednecks. It truly is amazing to see the cognitive dissonance involved in that one. Murtha will be reelected until he either dies in office or retires. And even then, I'm not sure that he wont continue to be reelected.
These three members of the House, along with their fellow Democrats will be setting policy for the next two years. Get used to higher taxes and fees, because that's their policy prescription.
On the other hand, we do get to say goodbye to Rep. Tim Mahoney (D-FL), who was bumped from Congress after he was found to be engaging in multiple affairs and may have used federal funds in the process of silencing his paramours.
At the state level, New York's State Senate appears on the verge of having a Democratic majority for the first time since the Great Depression. I'm sure that will work out famously.
UPDATE 11/05/2008:
This came in after I had already finished blogging for the evening, but Sen. Ted Stevens (R-AK/Felon) was reelected by his constituents in Alaska. Nice.
Another Election *Almost* in the Books
We are only a few hours from possibly knowing who the next president of the United States of America will be. Who will it be? Will we be swearing in Sen. Barack Obama or Sen. John McCain as the next President of the United States come January? I think George Washington would be pretty excited to know that his great experiment has lasted this long and will be carrying out yet another peaceful transfer of power based on the will of the people. Most people didn't give this nation much of a chance to overcome its birthing, let alone the growing pains that included the end of slavery. We have come so very far in a relatively short amount of time, and yet our best days are still ahead of us, regardless of who wins.
Voters had to choose from two very divergent political viewpoints, and emotions will run hot for quite some time to come. They had to deal with that back in Washington's day as well. Back then, you had federalists and anti-federalists running around and publishing pamphlets supporting or opposing various aspects of government and the grand experiment that we were about to undertake. These folks used pseudonyms, but we know them by their actual names - Alexander Hamilton, John Jay, James Madison, Thomas Jefferson, George Clinton, and Patrick Henry.
On this most patriotic of days, I decided to head down to Federal Hall, where Washington was inaugurated as the first President of this great nation.
It was actually my first time inside, and it's a shame I hadn't been inside earlier. It really is a magnificent building. It's notable for being where John Peter Zenger was arrested for the crime of libel against the Crown, but it also became the first Capitol of the United States as Congress held session here prior to the construction of the District of Columbia. It's also where the Bill of Rights was ratified.
Most folks usually take photos outside, but the interior rotunda is quite impressive. There are also a few interesting pieces on display. The following photo of a well worn book is none other than the very bible on which George Washington took the oath of office. George H.W. Bush (Bush 41) was sworn in with this bible as well. It has an interesting history all of its own. The bible was on loan from the St. John’s Lodge of Ancient Free and Accepted Masons in Newburyport.
Since the results aren't quite in yet, let's not forget that the media and pundits and everyone in between once wrote off another politician seeking higher office only to have to eat a mighty large amount of crow. Let's not forget PresidentThomas E. Dewey Harry S. Truman.
Voters had to choose from two very divergent political viewpoints, and emotions will run hot for quite some time to come. They had to deal with that back in Washington's day as well. Back then, you had federalists and anti-federalists running around and publishing pamphlets supporting or opposing various aspects of government and the grand experiment that we were about to undertake. These folks used pseudonyms, but we know them by their actual names - Alexander Hamilton, John Jay, James Madison, Thomas Jefferson, George Clinton, and Patrick Henry.
It was actually my first time inside, and it's a shame I hadn't been inside earlier. It really is a magnificent building. It's notable for being where John Peter Zenger was arrested for the crime of libel against the Crown, but it also became the first Capitol of the United States as Congress held session here prior to the construction of the District of Columbia. It's also where the Bill of Rights was ratified.
Most folks usually take photos outside, but the interior rotunda is quite impressive. There are also a few interesting pieces on display. The following photo of a well worn book is none other than the very bible on which George Washington took the oath of office. George H.W. Bush (Bush 41) was sworn in with this bible as well. It has an interesting history all of its own. The bible was on loan from the St. John’s Lodge of Ancient Free and Accepted Masons in Newburyport.
Since the results aren't quite in yet, let's not forget that the media and pundits and everyone in between once wrote off another politician seeking higher office only to have to eat a mighty large amount of crow. Let's not forget President
More Election Problems Surface; Real Versus Imagined Voter Intimidation
In addition to the problems I've been reporting in Pennsylvania, there were problems here in New York City. Apparently Tim Robbins ran into what is a pretty common problem. His name didn't appear on the voter roll at his proper polling place. He went down to the Board of Elections at 200 Varick Street, where they indeed showed him as properly registered to vote at that location and had a judge clear him to vote.
40 other people at his polling place had similar problems, but not Robbins partner, Susan Sarandon. She didn't have any problems.
Before you think that this is some kind of voter intimidation or suppression of votes, keep in mind that these are Democrat districts and precincts. They would want to maximize the number of votes cast, not minimize them. Robbins would like to believe that this is intimidation, but it's actually worse than that.
What Robbins' situation showcases is that the election system in the country is broken and no one has taken this problem seriously, even after the 2000 debacle in Florida and the problems in Ohio and Pennsylvania in 2004.
Philly.com headlines and claims that GOPers are engaging in voter intimidation outside polling places in Pennsylvania. The outlet ignores the real intimidation of Black Panthers wielding clubs outside polling places. Philly.com calls the Black Panthers guarding the polling place.
This is the video of those thugs outside the polling place.
I'd say that is more intimidating that what the Democrats claim is intimidation by asking for party affiliation or identification information.
UPDATE:
More voter fraud: The Jawa Report notes that an idiot in Philadelphia admits going and voting multiple times. Thanks for admitting that you've committed multiple felonies. For every person dumb enough to admit this, how many more are getting away with the unconscionable act of stuffing the ballot box?
UPDATE:
Scattered problems in New Jersey, particularly with electronic ballot machines and incompetent workers who didn't know how to operate them. Some were inadvertently turned off, and some malfunctioned.
You don't have that problem with paper ballots.
Meanwhile, a judge refused to extend polling hours in New Jersey. Oh, and for those wondering about requiring to show ID to vote in NJ, you're in luck.
You don't need to:
Instapundit points out that there are additional problems in South Jersey and Philadelphia and the New Hampshire GOP has filed suit over access at the polls "...claiming that Republican election officials are purposefully being kept away from new registration tables. Both Republicans and Democrats appoint election officials to ensure that neither party tries to tamper with votes or registration."
40 other people at his polling place had similar problems, but not Robbins partner, Susan Sarandon. She didn't have any problems.
Before you think that this is some kind of voter intimidation or suppression of votes, keep in mind that these are Democrat districts and precincts. They would want to maximize the number of votes cast, not minimize them. Robbins would like to believe that this is intimidation, but it's actually worse than that.
What Robbins' situation showcases is that the election system in the country is broken and no one has taken this problem seriously, even after the 2000 debacle in Florida and the problems in Ohio and Pennsylvania in 2004.
Philly.com headlines and claims that GOPers are engaging in voter intimidation outside polling places in Pennsylvania. The outlet ignores the real intimidation of Black Panthers wielding clubs outside polling places. Philly.com calls the Black Panthers guarding the polling place.
This is the video of those thugs outside the polling place.
I'd say that is more intimidating that what the Democrats claim is intimidation by asking for party affiliation or identification information.
UPDATE:
More voter fraud: The Jawa Report notes that an idiot in Philadelphia admits going and voting multiple times. Thanks for admitting that you've committed multiple felonies. For every person dumb enough to admit this, how many more are getting away with the unconscionable act of stuffing the ballot box?
UPDATE:
Scattered problems in New Jersey, particularly with electronic ballot machines and incompetent workers who didn't know how to operate them. Some were inadvertently turned off, and some malfunctioned.
You don't have that problem with paper ballots.
Meanwhile, a judge refused to extend polling hours in New Jersey. Oh, and for those wondering about requiring to show ID to vote in NJ, you're in luck.
You don't need to:
According to Casciano, representatives of Democratic presidential candidate Barack Obama petitioned Essex County Assignment Judge Patricia Costello Tuesday morning to extend polling hours because some machines had been down for 45 minutes to two hours.UPDATE:
Costello rejected the request, Casciano said, on the grounds that there was still plenty of time for people to vote and that voters had been given emergency ballots when the machines were unavailable.
The American Civil Liberties Union of New Jersey reported that some voters in Hudson, Camden, Essex, Mercer, Middlesex and Monmouth counties were improperly asked to provide identification in order to vote.
ACLU New Jersey director Deborah Jacobs said voters should only be asked for ID if they are voting for the first time at a polling place and did not provide it when they registered.
Instapundit points out that there are additional problems in South Jersey and Philadelphia and the New Hampshire GOP has filed suit over access at the polls "...claiming that Republican election officials are purposefully being kept away from new registration tables. Both Republicans and Democrats appoint election officials to ensure that neither party tries to tamper with votes or registration."
Drawing the Line
The Islamic terrorists will never be content with a two-state solution, and Hizbullah is not content with the current border arrangement. They now claim that they will not stop their fight against Israel until Israel returns still more villages and land to Lebanon. Never mind that the United Nations has signed off on the fact that Israel is no longer occupying any Lebanese territory. Hizbullah's spokes-thug is on a roll:
Where is the line going to be drawn?
That's the question for the day, and one that has special resonance given that a Lebanese paper reported that Sen. Barack Obama made special promises to the Palestinian Authority to push Israel to divest itself of half of Jerusalem. That's right folks, the supposed supporter of Israel is double dealing and promising to divide Jerusalem with the Palestinians who have never once shown themselves to be a true partner for peace. They haven't given up the fight to destroy Israel either, and with an Obama Administration pushing Israel into a corner, they have no reason not to continue their fight on all fronts.
The official US position is that the status of Jerusalem is to be decided between the parties - ie the Palestinians and Israelis. By putting his word on the line, he's taking sides with the Palestinians and against Israel's longstanding claim to an undivided capital city of Jerusalem.
Hizbullah's head of international relations Nawaf al-Moussawi said Monday in a meeting with Norway's ambassador to Lebanon, Aud Lise Norheim, that "the Blue Line is not the border between Lebanon and Israel. It's just a line that marks the border of retreat by the Israeli forces from south Lebanon in 2000".It never ends for the terrorists. They will not stop until Israel is destroyed. Israel didn't exist in 1923; it came into existence in 1948 after the Arab countries surrounding it, including Lebanon sought to wipe it from the planet. They failed, and Israel's 1948 borders define where Israel and Lebanon meet. Hizbullah keeps moving the goalposts and inventing claims that the media will accept without pause.
The Blue Line was determined by United Nations experts according to their interpretation of the Security Council resolution from 1978 and is slightly different from the international border that was set in 1923.
Al-Moussawi continued to address different lines that were marked in southern Lebanon. "The Zionist terror organizations moved the borderline that was set in 1920 to a new line in 1923 – a line that robbed Lebanon of seven villages and some 20 farms. We must be alert of attempts to show the Blue Line as a border that would rob Lebanon of millions of square meters of its national land."
Where is the line going to be drawn?
That's the question for the day, and one that has special resonance given that a Lebanese paper reported that Sen. Barack Obama made special promises to the Palestinian Authority to push Israel to divest itself of half of Jerusalem. That's right folks, the supposed supporter of Israel is double dealing and promising to divide Jerusalem with the Palestinians who have never once shown themselves to be a true partner for peace. They haven't given up the fight to destroy Israel either, and with an Obama Administration pushing Israel into a corner, they have no reason not to continue their fight on all fronts.
Democratic presidential candidate Senator Barack Obama privately expressed his support for a new Arab state within Israel's current borders, including eastern Jerusalem, during his meeting with Palestinian Authority Chairman and Fatah leader Mahmoud Abbas in Ramallah this summer.That goes directly against what Obama has been saying to Jewish groups around the country. This is a man who cannot be trusted on national security and working with strategic allies, including Israel.
According to a report published Tuesday in the Lebanese newspaper al-Ahbar, Obama told Abbas that he supports a PA state, and Arab "rights to east Jerusalem" as well. The sources said Abbas and PA Prime Minister Salam Fayyad "heard the best things they ever heard from an American president" during the meeting. However, said sources quoted in the report, the candidate asked them to keep his declaration a secret.
The official US position is that the status of Jerusalem is to be decided between the parties - ie the Palestinians and Israelis. By putting his word on the line, he's taking sides with the Palestinians and against Israel's longstanding claim to an undivided capital city of Jerusalem.
Beware the Rumors and Media Spin
Let's start off with the media spin. The New York Times is already noting that the media may not wait until all the states have closed their polls for the evening before starting to call the election.
The media touted early exit polls in 2004 showing a landslide victory for John Kerry. President Bush handily won reelection. I fully expect the media to again run with exit polling data that will not truly reflect the outcome in an attempt to shape the outcome of the election.
All the early announcements do is have an effect on the West Coast states where late voters may decide not to head to the polls based on what happened back on the East Coast.
Meanwhile, rumors and reports of thuggish behavior at some polling places is disconcerting. We're going to hear a lot more about this over the course of the day, and some of it may be nothing more than rumors.
Some districts are finding scattered problems with voting machines and heavy turnout is causing long lines.
Republican polling observers were kicked out of several Philadelphia polling locations in violation of a court ruling.
Meanwhile, Starbucks has to offer up free coffee to anyone who asks today because federal law prohibits anyone from offering rewards for votes. They had originally sought to provide free coffee to those who said that they had voted. No good deed goes unpunished, although since this is Starbucks we're talking about, burnt coffee isn't much of a reward.
Here's a bit of advice for those who are overly anxious or concerned about the election outcome. Stay away from Drudge.
Heck, stay away from the news sites altogether.
It does you no good hearing all the crap spewed by people searching out for a story. The only story here is that we're voting and we're deciding. The outcome will not be known until tonight at the earliest. Ignore the exit polls.
Get out and vote. That's the only poll that counts.
Everything else is fluff and pollsters and pundits hoping that they can make a name for themselves.
UPDATE:
Gateway Pundit links to a report out of Georgia that nearly 100,000 Georgia voters may also be registered to vote in Ohio and Florida.
Who says fraud doesn't happen in elections?
UPDATE:
Voter intimidation in Philadelphia, courtesy of the Black Panthers. Oh, and when Fox News showed up, the Black Panthers accused them of intimidating voters.
UPDATE:
Hillbuzz also notes the media and the Obama campaign are both looking to depress GOP turnout and dispirit those who might vote against Obama.
Meanwhile, why exactly is a law enforcement officer entrusted with detecting voter fraud being told not to send anyone to polling places in Wisconsin?
UPDATE:
Rumors of voter suppression calls in Pennsylvania; calls in Lancaster County originating in Philadelphia telling voters that polling places have changed. Consider this one unsubstantiated. However, if you're reading this and am concerned about where you should be going to vote, contact your local board of elections. Most are available online and will provide the correct polling location.
Jules Crittenden is live blogging the election from Massachusetts and has a great collection of links.
UPDATE:
More video of the Black Panthers in action from Philadelphia:
UPDATE:
11 reasons why you should ignore exit polls at all costs. It boils down to the fact that they are notoriously unreliable and have already shown themselves to overstate Obama's chances in primaries this year. Many of the numbers thrown out there will be bogus, inflated, or nothing more than guestimates of what the real vote will be.
Ignore them.
The real results will be here soon enough.
A senior vice president of CBS News, Paul Friedman, said the prospects for Barack Obama or John McCain meeting the minimum threshold of electoral votes could be clear as soon as 8 p.m. — before polls in even New York and Rhode Island close, let alone those in Texas and California. At such a moment, determined from a combination of polling data and samples of actual votes, the network could share its preliminary projection with viewers, Mr. Friedman said.You get the feeling that they're impatient for the coronation? I do. Let the polls close and let the election workers do their jobs in tabulating the votes.
“We could know Virginia at 7,” he said. “We could know Indiana before 8. We could know Florida at 8. We could know Pennsylvania at 8. We could know the whole story of the election with those results. We can’t be in this position of hiding our heads in the sand when the story is obvious.”
Similarly, the editor of the Web site Slate, David Plotz, said in an e-mail message that “if Obama is winning heavily,” he could see calling the race “sometime between 8 and 9.”
The media touted early exit polls in 2004 showing a landslide victory for John Kerry. President Bush handily won reelection. I fully expect the media to again run with exit polling data that will not truly reflect the outcome in an attempt to shape the outcome of the election.
All the early announcements do is have an effect on the West Coast states where late voters may decide not to head to the polls based on what happened back on the East Coast.
Meanwhile, rumors and reports of thuggish behavior at some polling places is disconcerting. We're going to hear a lot more about this over the course of the day, and some of it may be nothing more than rumors.
Some districts are finding scattered problems with voting machines and heavy turnout is causing long lines.
Republican polling observers were kicked out of several Philadelphia polling locations in violation of a court ruling.
A Pennsylvania judge previously ruled that court-appointed poll watchers could be NOT removed from their boards by an on-site election judge, but that is exactly what is happening, according to sources on the ground.You also have potential violation of state election law in New York. You've got Hillary violating the law on politicking within 100 feet of a polling station. She's right inside as she's being interviewed.
It is the duty of election board workers to monitor and guard the integrity of the voting process.
Denying access to the minority (in this case Republican) poll watchers and inspectors is a violation of Pennsylvania state law. Those who violate the law can be punished with a misdemeanor and subjected to a fine of $1,000 and sent to prison between one month and two years.
Meanwhile, Starbucks has to offer up free coffee to anyone who asks today because federal law prohibits anyone from offering rewards for votes. They had originally sought to provide free coffee to those who said that they had voted. No good deed goes unpunished, although since this is Starbucks we're talking about, burnt coffee isn't much of a reward.
Here's a bit of advice for those who are overly anxious or concerned about the election outcome. Stay away from Drudge.
Heck, stay away from the news sites altogether.
It does you no good hearing all the crap spewed by people searching out for a story. The only story here is that we're voting and we're deciding. The outcome will not be known until tonight at the earliest. Ignore the exit polls.
Get out and vote. That's the only poll that counts.
Everything else is fluff and pollsters and pundits hoping that they can make a name for themselves.
UPDATE:
Gateway Pundit links to a report out of Georgia that nearly 100,000 Georgia voters may also be registered to vote in Ohio and Florida.
A team of investigative journalists from WSB-TV in Atlanta, WFTV in Orlando and WFTS in Tampa and WCPO in Cincinnati compared Georgia's voter rolls with those in Florida and Ohio and found more than 100,000 people who appear to be registered to vote in more than one state, with no government oversight to catch it.Several people are already under investigation for voting in more than one jurisdiction.
Who says fraud doesn't happen in elections?
UPDATE:
Voter intimidation in Philadelphia, courtesy of the Black Panthers. Oh, and when Fox News showed up, the Black Panthers accused them of intimidating voters.
UPDATE:
Hillbuzz also notes the media and the Obama campaign are both looking to depress GOP turnout and dispirit those who might vote against Obama.
The goal of the Obamedia is to depress you so much you don’t turn out to vote. Our friend Astrid always falls for this garbage, and we know she is not all alone. She’ll be miserable all day because she’s never learned to turn out the media and just chill out.That's what I've been saying - ignore the polls and get out there and vote. Obama doesn't have this in the bag, no matter what the media is throwing out and calling news.
This is going to go down just like Super Tuesday - where the media claimed Obama would win California, New York, Massachusetts, New Jersey, and others…but Clinton won every state we predicted she’d win.
In fact, we were right about every state in the primaries except Missouri, which Clinton lost by less than 1%. Otherwise, we were spot-on.
So, we know you Eeyores are going to drive everyone in your lives crazy today. You are going to panic and wet yourselves and email/call/bother all of your friends and relatives all day. You’ll forward bogus polls and terrible links to everyone, and depress people left and right.
Meanwhile, why exactly is a law enforcement officer entrusted with detecting voter fraud being told not to send anyone to polling places in Wisconsin?
Last week Mike Sandvick, head of the Milwaukee Police Department's five-man Special Investigative Unit, was told by superiors not to send anyone to polling places on Election Day. He was also told his unit -- which wrote the book on how fraud could subvert the vote in his hometown -- would be disbanded.It raises more questions than answers, doesn't it.
"We know what to look for," he told me, "and that scares some people." In disgust, Mr. Sandvick plans to retire. (A police spokeswoman claims the unit isn't being disbanded and that any changes to the unit "aren't significant.")
In February, Mr. Sandvick's unit released a 67-page report on what it called an "illegal organized attempt to influence the outcome of (the 2004) election in the state of Wisconsin" -- a swing state whose last two presidential races were decided by less than 12,000 votes.
The report found that between 4,600 and 5,300 more votes were counted in Milwaukee than the number of voters recorded as having cast ballots. Absentee ballots were cast by people living elsewhere; ineligible felons not only voted but worked at the polls; transient college students cast improper votes; and homeless voters possibly voted more than once.
UPDATE:
Rumors of voter suppression calls in Pennsylvania; calls in Lancaster County originating in Philadelphia telling voters that polling places have changed. Consider this one unsubstantiated. However, if you're reading this and am concerned about where you should be going to vote, contact your local board of elections. Most are available online and will provide the correct polling location.
Jules Crittenden is live blogging the election from Massachusetts and has a great collection of links.
UPDATE:
More video of the Black Panthers in action from Philadelphia:
UPDATE:
11 reasons why you should ignore exit polls at all costs. It boils down to the fact that they are notoriously unreliable and have already shown themselves to overstate Obama's chances in primaries this year. Many of the numbers thrown out there will be bogus, inflated, or nothing more than guestimates of what the real vote will be.
Ignore them.
The real results will be here soon enough.
Thai Islamists Wound and Maim Dozens In Market Bombing
Some reports indicate at least 70 were injured in a series of explosions in Thailand. MSNBC is reporting 62 are hurt:
The first bomb went off, injuring dozens. A second smaller bomb went off as rescuers arrived on the scene. That indicates that the terrorists behind the attack sought to kill and wound those responding to help those first stricken by their bombs.
The Times of London reports that there is invariably a murder a day due to the Islamists carrying out their jihad in the South.
The Islamists target teachers and were out in force yesterday, the first day of classes.
Three bombs ripped through a tea stall and shopping area Tuesday in insurgency-wracked southern Thailand, wounding at least 62 people, police said.The Islamists will not stop until they have dominion over the South of Thailand. The Thai government has alternated between crackdown and appeasement, and neither approach has worked.
It was the largest attack in months in Thailand's restive south, which has been gripped by a Muslim insurgency since 2004.
Two bombs exploded in the parking lot of a fruit market in Narathiwat province at about noon local time, followed minutes later by a third bomb outside a tea shop in the same province, said Narathiwat police chief Maj. Gen. Surachai Suebsuk.
The first bomb went off, injuring dozens. A second smaller bomb went off as rescuers arrived on the scene. That indicates that the terrorists behind the attack sought to kill and wound those responding to help those first stricken by their bombs.
The Times of London reports that there is invariably a murder a day due to the Islamists carrying out their jihad in the South.
The Islamists target teachers and were out in force yesterday, the first day of classes.
In Narthiwat's Bacho district, a roadside bomb aimed at eight-man security details securing a rural road leading to a local public school. No injuries were reported.
Authorities immediately unleashed 80-strong personnel to conduct a mop up operation but came out with no information leading to the attackers.
Sanugan Inthrak, chairman of Federation of Narathiwat Teachers said he was satisfied with the overall level of security provided to the teachers.
In Srisakorn district of the same province, Che-mamah Che, 66, the owner of a local teashop, was shot dead in front of about five customers. His body was riddled with four bullets from a gunman who was riding pillion on a motorbike and fired at close range.
In Yala's Than To district, a combined forces of about 50 security personnel cut off villagers in this highly contested district to carry out what appeared to be a blind sweep. Two men were taken in for questioning from the operation.
Study Suggests Weather Plays Role In Autism
Children who live in areas of the United States that get a lot of precipitation appear to have a higher risk of developing autism, a new study suggests.A connection with Vitamin D is raised as a possibility since rainy weather forces people indoors and the human body needs sunlight to synthesize the vitamin. Another possibility is that being indoors means that kids are exposed to more television and videos. A third possibility is that being indoors increases exposure to contaminants.
Because these children may spend more time indoors or because rain brings chemicals in the atmosphere to the ground, they might be exposed to environmental triggers that can trigger a genetic predisposition to autism, the researchers say.
“There seems to be a strong association between precipitation and autism diagnosis rates,” said lead researcher Michael Waldman, a professor of economics at the Johnson Graduate School of Management at Cornell University.
Waldman, whose son was diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder, isn’t saying that rain causes the condition. “Our finding strongly suggests that there is some factor which is positively correlated with precipitation, which is serving as a trigger for autism,” he said.
I'd posit a fourth possibility; that rainy weather may stimulate mold development that might somehow affect human development in infants and young children.
Still, there is other research focusing on the genetic component to the disorder and the experts invariably discount and dismiss the link between vaccines and autism. The increased numbers of diagnosis could be that with better screening we are seeing doctors picking up mild cases of autism that wouldn't have been found just a few years ago. Also, some doctors are more willing to provide a diagnosis for autism so that the children can be qualified for intensive treatment and special education protocols in many areas.
Frankly, there is so much we don't know about the disorder and what triggers it to happen that the junk science and outlandish claims continue to persist, and those claims can have significant public health consequences, particularly in the vaccination of preventable diseases.
UPDATE:
USA Today notes the skepticism of the president of the Autism Society of America:
But Lee Grossman, president of the Autism Society of America, says he's skeptical. "It just does not seem plausible," says Grossman, who got a summary of Waldman's findings from a reporter but hadn't yet read the journal article. "It does not match up with any of the demographics that we follow."Mrs. Lawhawk wondered whether there was evidence of higher autism rates in the Pacific Northwest, which is known for its bad weather.
Grossman says his organization has 170 chapters and "what's striking is the similarity … in terms of the prevalence and incidence of autism."
It makes does make sense that environmental factors play a role, Grossman says, but no one yet has pinpointed what they are and whether exposure before birth or afterward matters. "I'm really surprised that the AMA is publishing such studies," he says.
I suspect that there's something to the environmental hypothesis, and it might have to do with molds or other environmental elements that are present in some areas but not others, which could explain why New Jersey has a higher autism rate than other areas. The problem is equalizing for screening competency. Some areas do a better job screening for autism than others.
Election Day 2008 Is Here
Now get out and vote. Every presidential election has significant and long lasting effects. Your choice (or if you end up not voting, your silent assent) will affect everything from defense policy, foreign policy, and economic policy, to court nominations and domestic spending and priorities.
The polls are open all along the East Coast, and the early word is that the polling places are extremely busy. Good. They were extremely busy in 2004 too, back when pundits and pollsters were saying that this would favor the Democrats. Turns out that President Bush won reelection. Turnout may also seriously influence the polls, depending on what models and data they used.
Speaking of pollsters, Gallup reports that only two percent say that Obama is qualified or experienced.
TWO PERCENT.
Two percent also think that McCain would bring change or a fresh approach. The media and the Obama campaign have done quite well in painting the Maverick as a continuation of President Bush's policies and have similarly found that Obama is inexperienced, but apparently hope for change trumps actual experience. We'll see soon enough if the polls and exit polls match what the voters actually did. There are more than enough reasons to question the polling data and methods and how the pollsters have arrived at their divinations.
Among battleground states, Colorado looms large. There are quite a few ballot initiatives in play there, including several tax related items. Michelle Malkin notes several other states with key initiatives and ballot questions.
The polls are open all along the East Coast, and the early word is that the polling places are extremely busy. Good. They were extremely busy in 2004 too, back when pundits and pollsters were saying that this would favor the Democrats. Turns out that President Bush won reelection. Turnout may also seriously influence the polls, depending on what models and data they used.
Speaking of pollsters, Gallup reports that only two percent say that Obama is qualified or experienced.
TWO PERCENT.
Two percent also think that McCain would bring change or a fresh approach. The media and the Obama campaign have done quite well in painting the Maverick as a continuation of President Bush's policies and have similarly found that Obama is inexperienced, but apparently hope for change trumps actual experience. We'll see soon enough if the polls and exit polls match what the voters actually did. There are more than enough reasons to question the polling data and methods and how the pollsters have arrived at their divinations.
Among battleground states, Colorado looms large. There are quite a few ballot initiatives in play there, including several tax related items. Michelle Malkin notes several other states with key initiatives and ballot questions.
Monday, November 03, 2008
The Rebuilding of Ground Zero, Part 52
It's been several weeks since I've focused on the developments at Ground Zero and provided a photographic update of the work going on around the site.
The Freedom Tower's core is clearly well out of the pit and now stands at least 30 feet above street level (West Street). It's not quite visible from across the site from the vantage point at street level on Church (East side) because of the topographical change and the obscured fencing. It would need to reach probably 10-15 stories before you can see it from the East. I figure it would be another few weeks before that happens. Workers are scurrying all over the site, both in setting up the concrete forms for the concrete core, and for setting up the steel not only for the Freedom Tower, but for the memorial.
The photos tell the tale.
These photos gives you some idea as to the size of the steel and concrete being set as the foundation for the Freedom Tower:
This photo is taken from Vesey Street and lets you see how the core is rising above the surrounding site.
These workers are busy preparing the concrete forms that will make up the core of the building.
I frequently take photos from this perspective to give you some continuity as to the ongoing construction. It's getting harder to frame shots from this vantage point as the construction begins heading skyward.
This photo shows the ongoing work at the site of the 9/11 memorial. Steel is being erected all throughout this quadrant of the site, although much of it will not be visible from street level because it is mostly subterranean in nature. The pit of Ground Zero goes down to bedrock nearly 70 feet below the surrounding street level. The memorial itself will be 30 feet below street level.
Alas, while there is significant work underway at the Freedom Tower and the 9/11 Memorial, you can't say the same for Fiterman Hall and the former Deutsche Bank building. Both continue to be hulking reminders of the failure of the state and local officials to tear down both buildings in a timely and safe manner.
The Freedom Tower's core is clearly well out of the pit and now stands at least 30 feet above street level (West Street). It's not quite visible from across the site from the vantage point at street level on Church (East side) because of the topographical change and the obscured fencing. It would need to reach probably 10-15 stories before you can see it from the East. I figure it would be another few weeks before that happens. Workers are scurrying all over the site, both in setting up the concrete forms for the concrete core, and for setting up the steel not only for the Freedom Tower, but for the memorial.
The photos tell the tale.
These photos gives you some idea as to the size of the steel and concrete being set as the foundation for the Freedom Tower:
This photo is taken from Vesey Street and lets you see how the core is rising above the surrounding site.
These workers are busy preparing the concrete forms that will make up the core of the building.
I frequently take photos from this perspective to give you some continuity as to the ongoing construction. It's getting harder to frame shots from this vantage point as the construction begins heading skyward.
This photo shows the ongoing work at the site of the 9/11 memorial. Steel is being erected all throughout this quadrant of the site, although much of it will not be visible from street level because it is mostly subterranean in nature. The pit of Ground Zero goes down to bedrock nearly 70 feet below the surrounding street level. The memorial itself will be 30 feet below street level.
Alas, while there is significant work underway at the Freedom Tower and the 9/11 Memorial, you can't say the same for Fiterman Hall and the former Deutsche Bank building. Both continue to be hulking reminders of the failure of the state and local officials to tear down both buildings in a timely and safe manner.
Circuit City Closing 20% of Stores Because Of Business Woes
Due to the economy, bad business decisions and increased competition from Best Buy, Circuit City is closing 20% of its stores nationwide.
The full list is here.
Circuit City's stock may also face delisting from the NYSE if it cannot get its share price above the listing minimums. The stock has an average closing price of less than $1 over 30 consecutive trading days, which spells real trouble for the company going forward to raise capital.
The move comes as Circuit City heads into a crucial holiday shopping season that could determine its future, amid a slowdown in consumer spending that has even the least vulnerable retailers worried.It is completely leaving certain markets, including Atlanta and Phoenix, but the New York metro area will be largely intact. Only two stores are being shuttered in New Jersey - Freehold and Livingston, while New York loses eight stores, including outlets in Palisades Center Mall, four locations in New York City, and several on Long Island.
“The weakened environment has resulted in a slowdown of consumer spending, further impacting our business as well as the business of our vendors,” James A. Marcum, vice chairman and acting chief executive said in a statement. “The combination of these trends has strained severely our working capital and liquidity.”
Mr. Marcum called the decision to close stores “difficult, but necessary.”
Circuit City has had only one profitable quarter in the last year, posting a wider second-quarter loss in September with a 13 percent decline in sales at stores open at least a year. Its results have weakened as the company faces significant declines in traffic, heightened competition from a rival,Best Buy, and others and a weakened brand position.
The company, which is reviewing its operations while exploring strategic alternatives, has been working with advisers to determine how to substantially improve its operating and financial performance.
The full list is here.
Circuit City's stock may also face delisting from the NYSE if it cannot get its share price above the listing minimums. The stock has an average closing price of less than $1 over 30 consecutive trading days, which spells real trouble for the company going forward to raise capital.
The Dead Keep on Voting
The nexus for the Army of Darkness (aka the legion of dead voters)? Ohio, of course.
The Ohio Secretary of State Jennifer Brunner has done a disastrous job of handling the state elections and doesn't think it important to ensure that the voter rolls are accurate and culled of deceased voters. She issued a directive to Boards of Elections across the state to withhold dates of births in public records requests. That information is important in positively identifying dead voters. Instead, we get a situation where the dead vote. Often.
Thousands of dead voters remain on voter rolls in Memphis, and there are actual signs that at least 12 votes were cast by the dearly departed, though the efforts to clear the rolls have uncovered far more serious problems, including multiple registrations.
How many of these deceased votes have been cast this year? Far more than ever should be allowed, and in a close election and in certain districts, it could be a decisive vote.
Among the thousands of graves at Highland Park Cemetery, one modest tombstone stands out.Oh, I have a real good idea. The board of elections at the state and local levels around the country aren't doing their job of clearing the voter rolls of deceased voters, felons, and others who are ineligible to cast ballots.
Alex Holmes Sr. has been at rest in that cemetery for 15 years. But recent election records show he cast a ballot in this year's primary.
And our 5 On Your Side investigation found a home on Cleveland's east side listed as Holmes' address.
Jeremy Moore, Holmes' grandson, was stunned.
"He's deceased. Deceased since 1993," Moore said.
And it doesn't appear to be a name mix-up.
Records reveal Alex Holmes Jr. -- who is still alive -- voted in the same election as his deceased father.
Cuyahoga County Elections Director Jane Platten said she'll look in to it.
"Without having full detail, I have no idea why that would have happened," Platten said.
The Ohio Secretary of State Jennifer Brunner has done a disastrous job of handling the state elections and doesn't think it important to ensure that the voter rolls are accurate and culled of deceased voters. She issued a directive to Boards of Elections across the state to withhold dates of births in public records requests. That information is important in positively identifying dead voters. Instead, we get a situation where the dead vote. Often.
Thousands of dead voters remain on voter rolls in Memphis, and there are actual signs that at least 12 votes were cast by the dearly departed, though the efforts to clear the rolls have uncovered far more serious problems, including multiple registrations.
The names of Deaton and the others appeared despite reforms undertaken following a 2005 special state Senate election in which corrupt Memphis poll workers used the identities of dead voters to sway the outcome of an especially tight race. The reforms were aimed at ensuring deceased individuals are removed from voter rolls.The dead vote far more often than the New York Times or Washington Post would ever care to admit (and even then, they'll refuse to call it fraud. And every one of these votes undermines the legitimate votes cast in those districts because it effectively nullifies a legitimate vote.
Yet inadequate purging of dead voters isn't the only concern facing the county's bulging, 645,000-name voter roll. A computer analysis by The Commercial Appeal and Scripps Howard News Service also found:
As many as 1,681 voters appeared to have more than one registration on file with the Shelby County Election Commission. Such dual registrations create the potential for fraud. Records show a handful of voters may have as many as three registrations on file.
Electronic records hint that as many as 12 dead people voted in the 2004 general election, although that finding is believed to involve clerical errors and not actual fraud.
How many of these deceased votes have been cast this year? Far more than ever should be allowed, and in a close election and in certain districts, it could be a decisive vote.
The Deep Breath Before the Plunge
Today is the last day before people start heading to the voting booths around the nation and casting their ballots for local offices on up to the Office of President.
I think I've made my preferences known as to who I think should be President. I don't think there really is any question that Sen. Barack Obama's policies will be harmful, corrosive, and undermine national security and our economic standing. However, perhaps nearly 50% of Americans think that Obama should be President. Of that number, some are not voting for Obama, but rather against Sen. John McCain.
The true believers for Obama may be in for quite a shock and disappointment, even if Obama wins. They'll quickly find out that Obama isn't going to do what they want him to do, even as some intend to push Obama to move even further to the Left than he already is. And I wouldn't even begin to wonder what might happen if McCain pulls off the shocker of our generation by beating Obama and forcing all the prognosticators, pollsters and pundits to eat a whole bunch of crow. Doug Ross comments on that possibility. Let's just say that the last eight years of Bush Derangement Syndrome might not begin to capture the craziness emanating from the Democratic party should Obama go down to defeat. Of course, that possibility also opens the door to Sen. Hillary Clinton and her segment of the Democratic party becoming resurgent. It would also create serious turmoil in the Party and the ensuing internecine battle for primacy will be fun to watch, although Democrats who believed that the Presidency should have been theirs in 2008 will be fighting to assign blame for the disastrous results.
Either way, we're going to see quite a bit of buyer's remorse, no matter who wins. This was not an election of two qualified candidates whose executive experience and knowledge were substantive and measurable, but rather a choice between the evil of two lessers. This was the best that our nation's political system could come up with.
And that's truly a sad statement on the political process in the United States.
I think I've made my preferences known as to who I think should be President. I don't think there really is any question that Sen. Barack Obama's policies will be harmful, corrosive, and undermine national security and our economic standing. However, perhaps nearly 50% of Americans think that Obama should be President. Of that number, some are not voting for Obama, but rather against Sen. John McCain.
The true believers for Obama may be in for quite a shock and disappointment, even if Obama wins. They'll quickly find out that Obama isn't going to do what they want him to do, even as some intend to push Obama to move even further to the Left than he already is. And I wouldn't even begin to wonder what might happen if McCain pulls off the shocker of our generation by beating Obama and forcing all the prognosticators, pollsters and pundits to eat a whole bunch of crow. Doug Ross comments on that possibility. Let's just say that the last eight years of Bush Derangement Syndrome might not begin to capture the craziness emanating from the Democratic party should Obama go down to defeat. Of course, that possibility also opens the door to Sen. Hillary Clinton and her segment of the Democratic party becoming resurgent. It would also create serious turmoil in the Party and the ensuing internecine battle for primacy will be fun to watch, although Democrats who believed that the Presidency should have been theirs in 2008 will be fighting to assign blame for the disastrous results.
Either way, we're going to see quite a bit of buyer's remorse, no matter who wins. This was not an election of two qualified candidates whose executive experience and knowledge were substantive and measurable, but rather a choice between the evil of two lessers. This was the best that our nation's political system could come up with.
And that's truly a sad statement on the political process in the United States.
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