|
Chuck Hagel (R) For Barack Obama’s Veep Pick?
2008-07-12 06:35:00 UnLikely, “Mismatched Duo” To Tour Iraq Together Hey, let’s not read TOO much into this trip into Iraq by Barack Obama and former Senator Chuck Hagel (R-NE). The “viral blogosphere” and the MSM is pondering and pontificating the possibility “Barry” might be courting the “maverick” (no, not a “maverick” in a John McCain sense of the term) Republican from The Great State of Nebraska for his currently open running mate position. Can we say “old news”? Look, I covered this back in March for those who might just be newer readers of this blog. But — HEY — this is “shocking, breaking NEWS” today, apparently. Am I surprised at the “latest rumor”? YOU be the judge… From The GTLâ„¢ — March 2nd, 2008: “… Senior advisers confirmed that Hagel, a highly decorated Vietnam war veteran and one of McCain’s closest friends in the Senate, was considered an i...
Barack Obama: ?I will be the Democratic nominee?
2008-06-04 05:33:00 Well, Barack Obama has given a speech, claiming victory as the Democratic nominee. Well, I’ve got news Barack, it really “isn’t over until the lady in the pants suit says so.” Why? Because the lady has a whole host of hit men who have done some pretty good work before (ok, maybe they did work for her ...
The Links: On To Puerto Rico
2008-05-21 22:44:00 Served fresh (almost) daily...General Election Polling Average--McCain vs. Obama: Obama +4.3General Election Polling Average--McCain vs. Clinton: Clinton +2.4Don't forget to check out our latest Senate rankings.Connecticut Dem Joe Courtney, a Guam super and an MS Super back Obama.Clinton gets a Massachusetts super and an Ohio super.First Read looks at the Edwards pledged delegates that have switched to Obama.Scandal-plagued New York Republican Vito Fossella will not seek re-election.Stuart Rothenberg offers his latest House and Senate ratings.Al Gore remains uncommitted.Is Obama's coalition strong enough to withstand defections of blue collar white voters?McCain will speak at this year's NAACP convention.John McCain raised $18 million in April, his best month.Obama raised more than $30 million, while Clinton raised $22 million.Massachusetts Senator Ted Kennedy has a malignant brain tumor.McCain hits Obama on his Cuba policy.Republican Chuck Hagel criticizes McCain's foreign poli...
By: Political Realm
Chuck Hagel Criticizes McCain
2008-05-21 20:19:00 While John McCain has Joe Lieberman putting on a Zell MIller act this year, there is now a Republican criticizing McCain and defending Obama. Sam Stein quotes Chuck Hagel: “We know from past campaigns that presidential candidates will say many things,” Hagel said of some of McCain’s recent rhetoric, namely his policy on talking to Iran. ...
By: Liberal Values
Chuck Hagel Isn?t Really A Republican
2008-05-21 19:02:00 Chuck Hagel should really stop pretending to be a Republican, when he hasn’t actually acted like one in years. Republicans should just officially take Lieberman in trade for Hagel and get it over with. Chuck’s most recent act of treason was his speech to a small gathering at the home of the Ambassador to Italy a ...
By: The Hot Joints
Ad Wars: Outside Groups Take Aim In Colorado
2008-05-21 18:34:00 Check out our entire video library at Political Realm TV.Presidential Watch: John McCainThe left-leaning MoveOn.org has launched a new ad urging John McCain to fire aide Charlie Black. The ad attacks Black for lobbying for "the world's worst tyrants." Several other McCain campaign staffers have recently resigned due to their past lobbying work, which could undermine McCain's message of reform. Senate Watch: ColoradoDemocrat Mark Udall and Republican Bob Schaffer both launched their ad campaigns this week and now two outside groups are getting in on the act as well. Coloradans for Economic Growth, a group that seems to have been formed specifically to support Bob Schaffer, is up with a new ad, "Sources," which touts Schaffer's support for alternative energy.The League of Conservation Voters, a left-leaning environmental group, is airing its own ad, "Fingerprint," which attacks Schaffer for his associations with the oil and gas industry. Senate Watch: New HampshireFormer Democra...
By: Political Realm
Senator Chuck Hagel On Hannity & Colmes: Stop Big Government Spending, the
2008-04-12 00:09:00 So on March 26th, Senator Chuck Hagel the Great (R-NE) was interviewed by Sean Hannity the Great (R) and Alan Colmes (D) on the Hannity & Colmesshow, to discuss the war in Iraq, conservativism, government spending, and his new book America: Our Next Chapter: Tough Questions, Straight Answers. Here’s a video of the interview: And here’s a ...
2008Central.net Presidential Election Podcast (04/05/08)
2008-04-06 21:59:00 During this show, the gurus discuss the state of the race, the Clinton tax returns, Obama’s strategy in Penn., McCain strategy, a general election preview and much more…. Download audio file (2008PresidentialElectionPodcas-t_04_05_08.mp3) [Subscribe to 2008Central.net’s Presidential Election Podcast] Feel free to email us questions/suggestions for our next podcast (you can also email an audio file of your question ...SHARETHIS.addEntry({ title: "2008Central.net Presidential Election Podcast (04/05/08)", url: "http://2008central.net/2008/04-/06/2008centralnet-presidential--election-podcast-040508/" });
By: 2008 Central
Senator Chuck Hagel on The Daily Show: ?We Failed the American People?
2008-04-05 09:58:00 As is my policy, whenever America’s Greatest Politician, Senator Chuck Hagel the Great (R-NE) is in the news, I do a post on it. Recently, Senator Hagel was on The Daily Show with Jon Stewart. Here’s a video: Let me highlight some points: “There will not be a military solution in Iraq… The deeper we sink into ...
Chuck Hagel on The Daily Show
2008-04-03 06:14:00 Stewart raises an interesting point around 4:50
By: Dyre Portents
Chuck Hagel on "Morning Joe" from April 1
2008-04-02 21:13:00 Senator Chuck Hagel was on ?Morning Joe? on MSNBC yesterday morning speaking about current events, his new book, and the Presidential election. Take a look.
America: Our Next Chapter: Tough Questions, Straight Answers
2008-04-02 12:37:00 anthony @ 11:55 BST Sen Chuck Hagel, Olbermann and Reality on the Ground in Iraq On MSNBC Chuck Hagel discusses the situation in Iraq with Keith Olbermann, and then discusses the need for a bipartisan cabinet in the next adminstration and even suggests a bipartisan ticket. Obama/Hagel? Now that’s a thought! Senator Hagel speaks to Jon Stewart on The ...
By: Suzie-Q
The Links: Indictments, Endorsements, And OJ
2008-03-25 05:35:00 Ready, set, go.Chuck Hagel says he's not ready to endorse John McCain.Detroit's mayor is indicted.The push for a superdelegate mini-convention grows.The US death toll in Iraq has reached 4,000.Geraldine Ferraro is still talking.What a small world it is.Both Clinton and Obama have done some embellishing.Dan Balz lists five ways Richardson helps Obama.The Clinton campaign ended February in the red.What a campaign--the OJ verdict is mentioned on the trail.Today was the last day to register for PA's primary.A record number of people have reportedly registered.Jonathan Martin looks at the McCain-Lieberman relationship.Is Fred Thompson headed back to Hollywood?'Horton' reigns at the weekend box office again.How does your bracket look?This day in history: the Exxon Valdez ran aground in 1989.
By: Political Realm
Emergency Landing For U.S. Senators In Afghanistan
2008-02-21 22:34:00 From the AP: Helicopters carrying three senior U.S. senators made emergency landings Thursday in the mountains of Afghanistan because of a snowstorm. Sens. John Kerry, Joseph Biden and Chuck Hagel were aboard the aircraft. No one was injured, according a statement from Kerry’s office. The senators and their delegation returned to Bagram Air Base in a motor ...
By: The Hot Joints
Senate Watch: News And Notes
2008-02-19 00:18:00 ColoradoPolls continue to show an extremely tight open seat race in Colorado between Democratic Congressman Mark Udall (pictured) and former Republican Congressman Bob Schaffer. The latest numbers show Schaffer with a 44%-43% lead--the very narrow margin is a growing trend in this contest. Though the race was initially pegged a likely Democratic pickup by most observers given the recent evidence (Democrats have picked up a House and Senate seat in recent years, adding the governor's office in 2006), we've rated the race a toss-up in our latest Senate rankings. That the race remains so close suggests that neither candidate has succeeded yet in defining his opponent. Schaffer and the Republicans will attempt to portray Udall as too liberal for the state, while Udall and the Democrats are making the opposite case for Schaffer. Though he trails in this most recent poll, Udall has a slight advantage due to his 2-to-1 edge in cash on hand.KansasAlready facing an uphill challenge in...
By: Political Realm
Mitt Romney Suspends His Campaign for President
2008-02-08 04:18:00 So, today, Mitt Romney announced that he was SUSPENDING his campaign (not endorsing anyone, just suspending campaigning - and the media is really screwing up their reporting on this). The announcement came as a surprise during his speech at the Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC) (which I’m at, but I didn’t hear his speech - I’ve ...
2008 Election: Presidential Endorsement
2008-01-01 22:09:00 Part IV: My 2008 Presidential Candidate Endorsement. I’ve hinted at it before, but I now make my endorsement official. The person that I am endorsing is…Mitt Romney. Now, why? I am hard core pro-life. Period. If you aren’t pro-life, I won’t be voting for you. I oppose privileges for homosexuals. Privileges are not the same as rights. Marriage the ...
Senate Watch: News And Notes
2007-11-20 18:30:00 AlabamaRepublican Jeff Sessions has a decisive lead over state Senator Vivian Figures, 62%-30%. The conservative Sessions appears well on his way to a third term.KentuckyMichael Cassaro, a Louisville-area doctor, became the first Democrat to officially challenge Republican Senator Mitch McConnell (pictured) this week. It's unlikely, however, that national Democrats will be satisfied with Cassaro, a political newcomer, as their candidate. Polling has showed McConnell is vulnerable and Democrats are pursuing state Auditor Crit Luallen and Attorney General Greg Stumbo among others. Stumbo, who has formed an exploratory committee, said he will make an official decision by mid-December. Stumbo even took at shot at potential rival Luallen, saying, ""I don't think you can take the oath of office for a four-year term one week and turn around and file for another office the next." Luallen was recently re-elected with 59% of the vote, while Stumbo did not pursue another term after bei...
By: Political Realm
Senate Watch: News And Notes
2007-10-29 20:57:00 AlaskaRepublican incumbent Ted Stevens brought in $463,000 during the third quarter and has more than $1 million available for his re-election bid. That re-election remains in doubt, however, with Stevens under investigation by the FBI. That ethics controversy has led many to question whether the veteran lawmaker would seek another term. Stevens' fundraising, well ahead of his pace from the 2002 cycle, seems to suggest that he plans to be on the ballot next November. His presence could present an opening for Democrats, with Anchorage Mayor Mark Begich a possible opponent.ColoradoDemocratic Congressman Mark Udall raised $1.1 million during the third quarter, compared to $800,000 for likely opponent Bob Schaffer. Udall has an impressive advantage in cash on hand, with $3.5 million in the bank. Schaffer has $1.2 million available. Both are seeking the seat being vacated by Republican Wayne Allard.GeorgiaRecent polling shows Republican Senator Saxby Chambliss has a very comforta...
By: Political Realm
Senate Watch: Battle Brewing In Nebraska
2007-10-11 20:48:00 A seat once thought to be one of the safest in the country has now become a battle to watch both in the primary and general election. Republican Chuck Hagel won re-election in 2002 with more than 80% of the vote, the greatest margin of victory in Nebraska history. During recent years, however, Hagel has become increasingly critical of the Bush Administration and its Iraq policy. Hagel, mulling a presidential bid or another re-election effort for months, ruled out both options a few weeks ago, opening the field and attracting top tier challengers.The race for the Republican nomination appears headed for a potentially bitter fight between former Nebraska Governor Mike Johanns and state Attorney General Jon Bruning. Johanns was twice elected governor before being selected to serve as agriculture secretary by President Bush at the start of his second term. Johanns resigned from the post last month amid speculation, which he recently confirmed, that he would seek the Senate seat. B...
By: Political Realm
Senate Watch: News And Notes
2007-10-09 23:38:00 Colorado? Congressman Mark Udall raised more than $1 million during the last quarter and has more than $3 million available for his Senate bid.? The Colorado seat, being vacated by Republican Wayne Allard, is considered one of the top pickup opportunities for Democrats in 2008. A new poll, however, shows that the race is likely to be competitive--both Udall and Republican Bob Schaffer poll in the mid-30s, with over 20% undecided. We hold firm in our belief that Udall is the favorite, though the poll confirms that any suggestions that the race would be a runaway are premature. Idaho? Republican Lt. Governor Jim Risch, the man many believed would be appointed to replace Larry Craig, has announced his intentions to run for the seat in 2008. Despite failing in his attempt to reverse a guilty plea to a sex charge this summer, Craig noted that he will serve out the remainder of his term rather than resign as he had previously suggested.Minnesota? Al Franken narrowly out-raised Republi...
By: Political Realm
Senate Watch: Opportunity Knocks
2007-10-05 06:51:00 New Mexico Republican Senator Pete Domenici announced his retirement today, ending speculation over his political future after being implicated in a Justice Department scandal earlier this year. The 75 year old veteran lawmaker becomes the fourth Republican to opt against re-election, joining Wayne Allard of Colorado, John Warner of Virginia, and Chuck Hagel of Nebraska. As with those open seats, New Mexico is sure to become a prime target for Democrats looking to build on their narrow majority.Domenici suggested health concerns were the primary reason for his decision, revealing he has a form of dementia. The on-going Senate ethics investigation, however, certainly made Domenici's decision all the easier. It is alleged that Domenici called former US Attorney David Yglesias to pressure him about political sensitive indictments. Yglesias was later fired as part of a Justice Department purge that critics suggest was politically motivated. Weary of a potentially bruising re-ele...
By: Political Realm
Senate Watch: Rankings
2007-10-01 23:51:00 Welcome to our first rankings of the 2008 Senate contests around the country. These rankings will appear at the beginning of each month through November 2008. The top ranked seat is the one we believe most likely to flip control to the other party. As you will notice, the landscape sets up rather nicely for Democrats looking to increase their small majority. Republicans have more seats to defend and (at least right now) fewer resources to help defend them. Democratic recruiting efforts have yielded strong results, while the jury is still out for Republicans. The bottom line is that Democrats have far more opportunities in 2008 and, while they won't pick up every seat they target, a gain of at least a few seems likely at this point.1. Virginia (Open-R): The retirement of John Warner dealt a devastating blow to Republicans. The seat that would have been easily defended had he opted for re-election has now become the Democrats' best pickup opportunity. Popular former Governo...
By: Political Realm
Quotable
2007-09-25 19:02:00 "The Republican Party has won two elections on the issue of fear and terrorism. It's going to try again."--Republican Senator Chuck Hagel of Nebraska, discussing Guantanamo Bay.
By: Political Realm
Ron Paul Hurt By Chuck Hagel Drop Out
2007-09-19 00:00:00 Ron Paul still a loner Chuck Hagel’s dropout from politics leaves Ron Paul dangling alone. Announcing that he is not running for any public office in 2008, Sen. Chuck Hagel is closing the viability of an anti-war Republican presidential candidate in ‘08. Republican Senator Chuck Hagel was until recently thought of as a possible 2008 presidential ...
By: Garling Gauge
Senate Watch: News And Notes
2007-09-14 18:58:00 Minnesota? Polling shows Republican incumbent Norm Coleman continues to hold a narrow lead over his two Democratic challengers, Al Franken and Mike Ciresi. Coleman leads Franken 46%-41% and his lead over Ciresi is 46%-42%. Coleman's is viewed favorably by 54% of the population, up slightly from last month. Both challengers have made significant gains on Coleman compared to surveys earlier this year that showed Coleman with a comfortable lead. Ciresi has had to overcome low name recognition, while Franken is seeking to prove he is a serious candidate, despite his background in entertainment. Both have seen their favorable numbers rise as well.Nebraska? Chuck Hagel confirmed Monday what had been widely rumored over the weekend--he would not seek a third term in the Senate. Hagel also will not seek the presidency in 2008. Republicans chances to hold the seat remain strong, though it presents a further challenge to Senate Republicans having to defend another seat once thought sa...
By: Political Realm
Chuck Hagel to Retire
2007-09-08 16:44:00 Senator Chuck Hagel from Nebraska will announce his retirement on Monday and close his two terms of service on January 5, 2009. Hagel will also announce he will not seek the Republican nomination for President or run for President as an Independent.This now opens the way for former Senator Bob Kerry to run for the Senate seat. Kerry has expressed his intentions to run only if his long time friend, Hagel, retired. Kerry served as Senator for Nebraska from 1989 to 2001.On the Republican field, former Governor and current Secretary of Agriculture Mike Johanns has expressed his interest to run for the Senate seat.Hagel was first elected in 1996 and has been the most vocal Republican opponent to the Iraq war. There was early speculation Hagel will run for President as a likely Independent, but it does not seem that will occur.This makes Hagel the third Republican to announce their retirement. John Warner of Virginia and Wayne Allard of Colorado has announced they will retire. Larry Craig...
Chuck Hagel To Announce Retirement From Senate
2007-09-08 13:46:00 Chuck Hagel will announce his retirement from the US Senate Monday in his home State of Nebraska. Another RINO bites the dust. Now we can put a real conservative in to replace... [[ This is a content summary only. Visit my website for full links, other content, and more! ]]
By: Stuck On Stupid
Chuck Hagel To Announce Retirement From Senate
2007-09-08 13:46:00 Another RINO bites the dust. Now we can put a real conservative in to replace Hagel. Update: From The American Spectator With the announcement today that Sen. Chuck Hagel is retiring, Republicans in the Senate are privately giving big props to National Republican Senatorial Committee chair Sen. John Ensign for his behind the ...
By: Stuck On Stupid
Senate Watch: News And Notes
2007-08-24 19:44:00 Louisiana? Republicans are still searching for a candidate to challenge vulnerable Democrat Mary Landrieu. The incumbent has twice won extremely narrow victories, but the demographics in the state continue to trend Republican, perhaps expedited by the population displacement following Hurricane Katrina.? John Kennedy, the current state treasurer and a Democrat, is being recruited to challenge Landrieu. He recently announced that he would seek re-election to his current post in 2007, send mixed signals about his future plans. Kennedy ran as a Democrat for the Senate in 2004, but lost to David Vitter, the first Republican senator from the state since Reconstruction and who was recently involved in a sex scandal. Minnesota? CQ Politics writes that Al Franken is working hard to prove himself as a serious candidate in the race to challenge Republican Senator Norm Coleman. Franken has proven himself a strong fundraiser already and is airing web ads attacking Norm Coleman's associati...
By: Political Realm
Senate Watch: Recruitment Troubles
2007-08-22 21:37:00 In a recent column over at The Fix, Chris Cillizza wrote:Recruiting is the main task of both parties in the year before an election. It's an arduous process that involves not only trying to find the best candidate and convince him or her to run, but also navigating tricky local political waters to make sure not too many toes are stepped on. A good recruiting program, it should go without saying, is crucial to making gains (or preventing losses) at the ballot box. Without a competent challenger who can make a strong case for change, even the weakest of incumbents has a fighting chance to be reelected.At this still-early point in the '08 cycle, it's hard to overlook the dearth of top-tier Republican candidates in potentially competitive Senate races. The best recruit on the board for Republicans at the moment is Bob Schaffer, a former congressman who is running for the Colorado Senate seat being vacated next year by Wayne Allard. The GOP cupboard is all-but-bare elsewhere. No serio...
By: Political Realm
Daily Links (August 20, 2007)
2007-08-21 04:56:00 Someone used an Obama computer to make a weird change on Wikipedia. [The Caucus] Fred Thompson had to clarify his position on gay marriage, as he tries to push his federalist message. [Marc Ambinder] Domenico Montanaro goes over the reverse psychology possibilities on what Rove said on Clinton. [First Read] Bob Kerrey might run for Senate if Chuck ...
By: 2008 Central
This Is Suppprting The Troops?
2007-07-11 21:53:00 Republicans killed an amendment submitted by Senator Jim Webb (D-Virginia) which would force the Pentagon to match the length of a solider's leave with the length of his or her deployment.Basically Republicans told the nation that troops do not deserve to be at home with their family and friends for the same amount of time they're spending politicing a civil war.There is no excuse for this and Republicans who voted against cloture should be thrown out of the Senate.The following members of the GOP are not included in this;Sen. Norm Coleman (R-Minnesota)Sen. Susan Collins (R-Maine)Sen. Chuck Hagel (R-Nebraska)Sen. Gordon Smith (R-Oregon)Sen. Olympia Snowe (R-Maine)Sen. John Sununu (R-New Hampshire)Sen. John Warner (R-Virginia)Yes, it is true that all but Snowe are facing tough reelections next year. Here's the list of those who are ALSO up for reelection next year, but voted not to move the amendment to a vote;Sen. Lamar Alexander (R-Tennessee)Sen. John Barrasso (R-Wyoming)Sen. Sa...
By: Nicks Notes
Senate Watch: News And Notes
2007-07-10 06:36:00 Michigan? Democratic Senator Carl Levin may find himself facing a familiar opponent in 2008. Republican Andrew "Rocky" Raczkowski, the former state representative that Levin easily beat in 2002, is considering another challenge. Minnesota ? Al Franken has reportedly raised $1.9 million in the second quarter, bringing his fundraising total to more than $3 million. Franken has $2 million in the bank. He is set to face Minneapolis lawyer Mike Ciresi, who raised $750,000 with $625,000 in the bank. Ciresi, like Franken, also has a significant amount of personal wealth to rely on for campaign support. Chris Cillizza notes, "The most important thing that Franken's fundraising does for him is that it sends a signal to the activist community that Franken is serious about this race and would be ready for Coleman if he winds up being the party's nominee. And it has the added bonus of reducing doubt in regular voters' minds about Franken's electability."? Republican incumbent Norm Coleman r...
By: Political Realm
What Did We Miss?
2007-07-09 19:52:00 We've resumed our normal posting here at Political Realm, so let's take a look at the stories we may have overlooked during our holiday.? Tommy Thompson has called the Ames straw poll next month "must win" for his presidential campaign. Thompson has spent an extraordinary amount of time in the state, which he views as essential to build momentum going forward. With the absence of Giuliani and McCain, Thompson has a chance for a decent showing, but knocking off Mitt Romney and his impressive organization in the state would be most unlikely. Is Thompson laying the groundwork for an exit from the race if the results are disappointing or is he just trying to fire up his supporters?? Politics are certainly present around Independence Day, for better or worse. House Democrats marked the occasion with an advertising blitz targeting several potentially vulnerable Republicans around the country.? Michael Bloomberg revealed that he had heart surgery in 2000, prompting some to wonder if he w...
By: Political Realm
Sunday Morning Talk: Paul, Gravel, Hagel
2007-07-08 02:38:00 This Week (ABC): Mike Gravel, Ron Paul, John Conyers Meet the Press (NBC): Chuck Hagel Face the Nation (CBS): Chuck Schumer, Orrin Hatch Fox News Sunday: Chris Van Hollen, Chris Cannon, Pete Hoekstra Late Edition (CNN): Dick Lugar, Mowaffak al-Rubaie, Patrick Leahy, and Arlen Specter
By: 2008 Central
Congressional News And Notes
2007-06-27 18:54:00 ? Republican John Barrasso, a surgeon and state senator, was seated as the new senator from Wyoming this week, assuming the seat vacated by the death of Craig Thomas. He was selected by Democratic Governor Dave Freudenthal to fill the seat until a special election in November of 2008. Wyoming's other senator, Republican Michael Enzi, is also expected to seek re-election at that time. Barrasso was defeated by Enzi in a Republican Senate primary in 1996.? Democrat Bob Kerrey, former governor and senator, is considering a bid to get his old job back in Nebraska. Kerrey, a decorated Vietnam veteran, served two terms in the Senate before retiring in 2001. He has suggested that he would not challenge Republican incumbent Chuck Hagel, but it is increasingly unlikely that Hagel will seek another term. Several Republicans, including Nebraska Attorney General Jon Bruning, have expressed interest in running. Kerrey, who currently lives in New York, has said his family will decide soon whether...
By: Political Realm
Where's The Beef? Part II
2007-06-27 01:07:00 This morning I discussed Richard Lugar's come to Jesus moment on Iraq and expressed some doubts that it really had any significance. Well the WH must see some significance as Lugar has been invited to a secret bunker for some re-education if not water boarding. But that didn't stop Sen. George Voinovich from delivering another meatless burger.Another GOP Senator Urges Pullout Sen. George Voinovich said Tuesday the U.S. should begin pulling troops out of Iraq, joining Richard Lugar as the second Republican lawmaker in as many days to suggest President Bush's war strategy is failing.He said the Iraqi people must become more involved and "I don't think they'll get it until they know we're leaving."But where it the beef? "We must not abandon our mission, but we must begin a transition where the Iraqi government and its neighbors play a larger role in stabilizing Iraq," Voinovich wrote in a letter to Bush.Lugar and Voinovich said they were still not ready to insist on a timetable f...
Where's The Beef?
2007-06-26 18:50:00 We have already had Senators Chuck Hagel, Gordon Smith and even John Warner talk the talk when it came to Iraq but none of them have walked the walk. Well Senator Richard Lugar has become the latest to take the walk.Lugar urges Bush to change course soon in Iraq WASHINGTON (CNN) -- Republican support for President Bush's Iraq war policy suffered a significant crack Monday evening when Republican Sen. Richard Lugar of Indiana urged the president to change course in Iraq "very soon."The well-respected GOP voice on foreign affairs took to the Senate floor to urge Bush to avoid further damage to America's military readiness and long-term national security."Our course in Iraq has lost contact with our vital national security interests in the Middle East and beyond. Our continuing absorption with military activities in Iraq is limiting our diplomatic assertiveness there and elsewhere in the world," he said.Lugar, the ranking Republican on the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, also sou...
Senate Watch: News And Notes
2007-06-15 06:48:00 ? Bob Olson is the latest Democrat to join the race as a potential challenger to Minnesota Senator Norm Coleman. Olson is a bank owner, lawyer, and alternative energy activist who joins Al Franken and Mike Ciresi seeking the Democratic nomination. Coleman's seat is one of the top targets for Democrats in 2008. ? Coleman may find his path to the nomination not as easy as once thought. Retired Lt. Colonel Joe Repya, an advisor to Coleman's 2002 Senate campaign, is considering a challenge. Repya recently lost his race to become the chair of the Republican Party in Minnesota.? Nebraska Attorney General Jon Bruning is moving forward, as expected, with his Senate bid. Incumbent Republican Chuck Hagel has yet to announce his future plans, which include a possible presidential run, Senate re-election, or retirement. Bruning has been increasingly critical of his fellow Republican's outspoken nature regarding Iraq.? New Hampshire Senate hopeful Steve Marchand confirmed last week that...
By: Political Realm
Gonzales No Confidence Vote Unsuccessful
2007-06-12 09:32:00 Attorney General Alberto Gonzales leaving after a speech in Miami, Florida on June 11, 2007 at the Global Initiative to Combat Nuclear Terrorism conference. REUTERS/Carlos Barria Democrats in the Senate tried unsuccessfully on Monday June 11, 2007, to end debate on a resolution showing no confidence in Attorney General Alberto Gonzales and they were not able to vote on the resolution. The resolution was one line saying "that Attorney General Alberto Gonzales no longer holds the confidence of the Senate and of the American people." Democrats needed 60 votes to invoke cloture on the resolution so that they could end the Republican filibuster and bring it up for a vote on the floor but it fell 7 votes shy of the 60 they needed. A roll call vote netted 53 in favor of invoking cloture and 38 not in favor of cloture. There were 7 Republicans who broke with the administration and refused to support the attorney general who has been intensely criticized for his de...
Gonzales Avoids No Confidence Vote
2007-06-12 07:04:00 Senate Republicans were able to block an attempt by Democrats to hold a no-confidence vote on embattled Attorney General Alberto Gonzales. Democrats had hoped such a vote would force Gonzales to step down under public pressure, though any measure passed would have been non-binding. Since assuming control of Congress in January, Democrats have actively investigated Gonzales and the Justice Department on issues ranging from hiring practices to wire-tapping and secret prisons.Needing 60 votes to end debate and move forward with the no-confidence vote, the effort fell seven votes short, 53-38. All Democrats voted to move forward, along with seven Republicans--Susan Collins of Maine, Norm Coleman of Minnesota, Gordon Smith of Oregon, Arlen Specter of Pennsylvania, Chuck Hagel of Nebraska, Olympia Snowe of Maine, and John Sununu of New Hampshire. Collins, Coleman, Smith, and Sununu all face strong challenges for re-election in 2008. Click here to see the full vote.Several Republicans sugg...
By: Political Realm
The Good And Bad
2007-06-08 22:46:00 How's the political stock market shaping up this week?Good? Mike Huckabee: The former Arkansas Governor has performed well in every GOP debate so far. It hasn't happened yet, but look for at least a slight bump from Huckabee in polling, perhaps up to the 7-9% range. It's a shame he had such a poor first quarter fundraising effort or he could back up his showing with advertisements or other voter outreach to maximize his bounce. In the least, he's definitely upped his vp profile.? Joe Biden: Biden again was strong (almost too much so) in the second Democratic debate. He was the only candidate to vote in favor of the Iraq funding bill and his explanation was forceful, yet reasonable. His Iraq plan seems to be a road the Democrats are willing to travel down, but he'll need to show that he's about more than just Iraq. Like Huckabee, Biden had a disappointing first quarter fundraising haul (probably due to his gaffe about Obama being the first articulate black candidate). His secon...
By: Political Realm
Will They Or Won't They?
2007-05-29 23:10:00 There are at least five major candidates not yet in the race that could significantly alter the course of the 2008 presidential election. Let's take a look at those candidates and attempt to determine their future.Michael Bloomberg: The nominally Republican mayor of New York City is positioned to make a strong independent bid should he decide to run. Sources close to Bloomberg have suggested that he is ready to dedicate $1 billion of his massive fortune to the race. Such sources also note that Bloomberg is examining past independent runs, like that of Ross Perot in 1992, to develop an electoral strategy for success. Bloomberg met with Nebraska Republican Senator Chuck Hagel, another rumored candidate, in Washington for lunch earlier this month, added fuel to the speculation that the duo may run together. Bloomberg also overhauled his campaign website, a strange move considering that he is barred from seeking a third consecutive term as New York's mayor. If anything, such a move te...
By: Political Realm
On Ron Paul And The Debates
2007-05-21 03:47:00 By now, you've probably seen, heard, or read about the exchange between Ron Paul and Rudy Giuliani in the second Republican presidential debate last week in South Carolina. In that discussion (see video below), Paul suggested that the US needed to adopt a non-interventionist foreign policy, because US action abroad had led to terrorist attacks. Giuliani responded that Paul needed to retract his claim the US invited the terrorist attacks. Paul refused to change his statement, though he never actually said the US invited the terrorist attacks. The next day, Paul further defended his position on CNN's Situation Room: I think he's [Rudy Giuliani] going to have to back away from his statement pretty soon, because I found two very clear quotes in the 9/11 Commission report that says that very thing, that our foreign policy has a very great deal to do with their willingness and desire to commit suicide terrorism. So, I would suggest that he read the 9/11 Commission report.The obvious qu...
By: Political Realm
Poll Vaulting: Iowans Call For Al Gore And Condoleezza Rice
2007-05-20 05:48:00 An interesting new poll from The DesMoines Register gives high marks amongst likely Democratic primary voters to Al Gore and high marks amongst likely Republican primary voters to Condi Rice, Newt Gingrich and Fred Thompson… Usually, I don’t find polls particularly meaningful, but they can be interesting or entertaining; this poll is both. The one ...
By: 2008 Central
2008 Tidbits
2007-05-17 19:48:00 It's time again to take a look at how various races are shaping up across the country.? The 2008 presidential field contains at least ten millionaires according to documents given to the FEC. Among the more surprising elements in the reports is Giuliani's assets set at $30 million. During divorce proceedings just six years ago, he claimed to have only $7,000 worth of assets under his control. Much of his wealth accumulated since leaving office comes from speeches he's given around the globe and his partnership in a law firm. John Edwards' campaign reports his net worth near $30 million as well, with nearly $500,000 coming from his somewhat controversial work for the Fortress hedge fund company. Mitt Romney is expected to report the greatest net worth, possibly as much as $350 million according to some reports. Romney, along with Hillary Clinton and John McCain, has been granted a filing extension by the FEC.? Florida has moved its primary to January 29th, a shift that could furt...
By: Political Realm
Good Reads
2007-05-16 21:44:00 Sheryl Gay Stolberg: See You In September, Whatever That MeansProgress by September.That, in three words, is the latest mandate from some nervous Republicans to President Bush over the war in Iraq. As the Democratic-controlled House passed yet another war spending bill last week, and Mr. Bush promised yet another veto, some members of his own party went to the White House with a blunt warning: We?re with you now, but if there is no progress by September, all bets are off.There?s just one problem. Nobody in Washington seems to agree on what progress actually means?or how, precisely, it might be measured.Best Of The Rest? An Idea To Write Home About: Is the Homeland Security Department a failure? Should it be broken up?? Is Freedom Failing?: A look from Time at the failures of democracy in certain places around the globe.? Netroots Renewed: Many of Howard Dean's net gurus from 2004 are finding work again for 2008.? Red, White, And Voting Blue--Where Dems Made Gains In '06: Chris Cil...
By: Political Realm
HP 2008 Presidential Race Trial Balloon: Michael Bloomberg / Chuck Hagel (I
2007-05-15 09:36:00 Watch this video of Hagel from Sunday all but announcing he's running, with Michael Bloomberg on an Independent ticket.Hagel is one of the only anti-war Republicans (so far), and has military experience. He also recognizes that the current Republican party is a joke and nothing to do with Ronald Reagan.Bloomberg has $5.5 billion in the bank and could easily outspend the Dem or Rep candidate. He also has a track record of successful businessman and successful big-city mayor.So, knowing that Ron Paul is a longshot (although he'll help shape the debate for sure), if your choice next year isBloomberg/HagelClinton/ObamaT-hompson/RomneyWho gets your vote? And will it matter? (man what a mess on their hands in 09)And go ahead and play soothsayer - who do you think the 2008 choice will come down to?
By: Housing PANIC
2008 Central?s Presidential Election Podcast (5/13/07)
2007-05-14 16:28:00 This week’s podcast covers… Rudy’s rough week on abortion Tough questions Romney faced about his sex life Tom Tancredo needs to get with the program Fred Thompson’s impending candidacy Buzz about a Bloomberg/Hagel ticket Hillary Clinton’s campaign surge in New Hampshire Bill Richardson’s new ads And more… Subscribe to 2008 Central’s Presidential Election Podcast
By: 2008 Central
|
|
 |
|
 |
