Saturday, January 10, 2009

The Obamas visit the Lincoln Memorial

It is that time to get familiar with your new surroundings, but even more to GET OUT OF THAT HOTEL. The Obama Family is used to being on the go, this is definitely a changer for them.

President-elect Barack Obama made an impromptu visit Saturday night with his family to see the Lincoln Memorial, paying tribute to a former president he frequently invokes as an inspiration.

Obama arrived in his motorcade shortly after 7 p.m. He stepped out with his wife Michelle and daughters Malia and Sasha and walked up the steps into the memorial.

After visiting the memorial for about 20 minutes, Obama and his family walked out, facing the reflective pool and Washington Monument. He waved to some passersby standing around the memorial's lower steps.

Obama frequently invokes the memory of Lincoln. He announced he was running for president in Springfield, Ill, at the steps of the Old Capitol, where Lincoln was a legislator.





Source

Obama out and about in D.C. getting "CHILI" (Pictures & Video)

Yes, after a first hard working week in D.C., the PE went out with D.C.'s Mayor Adrian Fenty and wound up at Ben's Chili Bowl, since chili is one of the PE's favorite foods.

My only beef, take your jacket off when eating chili, you are on down time.














To view any of the Obama pictures, look to your right, under labels and select pictures

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Blago, Burris, White, Illinois, the US Senate it is all summed up here

Kagro X at Daily Kos, sums it up totally and here it is.

Blagojevich gets arrested.

The Senate leadership warns him not to appoint anyone to Obama's seat, and if he does, they won't swear him in, no matter who it is.

Blagojevich appoints Burris, anyway.

Illinois Secretary of State Jesse White refuses to sign Burris' certificate of appointment.

Harry Reid and Dick Dubrin say no way, and he's definitely not getting in without a signed certificate.

Burris sues to force White to sign.

The Illinois Supreme Court says White doesn't have to sign...

...but even if he doesn't, Burris' appointment is still legal, valid and binding under state law.

Dick Durbin still says no way. The certificate's not signed, and that's that.

So now, Jesse White says he'll sign -- at least something certifying that the Governor's document is official, if not the actual same document -- even though he doesn't have to and it isn't necessary.

This looks like absolute shit for everybody involved, with the possible exception of Roland Burris and Rod Blagojevich, which is astounding.

Politico agrees. But then Politico will agree with any "Dems in disarray" story.

Jesse White's certification

This sums up the saga in Illinois. Durbin and Reid need to get off their high horses and end this circus travesty. The law, as I have been writing, is on the side of Roland Burris, whether we like it or not.

Seat him and get this off the media table.

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Eyes on Ambassador Appointments....

Yesterday a question was asked about these ambassador appointments, during Obama's Q&A after announcing his Intelligence Team.

Obama was frank, said this:

President-elect Barack Obama today acknowledged that some of the ambassadorships he assigns will go to big-money Democratic donors, and not to experts in the diplomatic corps. However, the president-elect said he'd try to keep those "political" appointments to a minimum.

But then when asked about big dollar donors this came:
The Democrat admitted that there would inevitably be some donors who end up being assigned ambassador posts.

"There probably will be some," he said. "It would be disingenuous for me to suggest that there are not going to be some excellent public servants but who haven't come through the ranks of the civil service."

But the president-elect said that his general inclination is to have civil service "wherever possible" serve in these posts.

Now DemConWatch has Anna Wintour of Vogue back in the spotlight for the ambassador post to France:
[T]he fashion world is buzzing over the rumor that Wintour might leave "with a guillotine glee akin to that which preceded the death of Marie Antoinette."

See — the whole fashion world is aflutter. Additionally, the Post called Obama's transition team and a spokesman offered "no comment." So he didn't deny it. It's hard to imagine Anna giving up her clothing allowance and the exquisiteness her job allows her to surround herself with — from the models to the clothes to the socialites she employs — for a stuffy government job. But then again, if Sanjay Gupta can leave the glamorous life at CNN behind to become surgeon general, anything's possible!

Great comparison, because Sanjay Gupta if he leaves for US Surgeon General will take a MASSIVE pay cut. We are talking about television, his own show, and the various other media outlets he participates in, and his practice. Wintour is doing the same thing, Vogue, mad clothing allowance, not to mention free stuff from designers, all the perks for a government job?

It is said that Barack Obama has a way of pitching to one that it is difficult to refuse. Plus, many want to be a part of this transitional administration, so to feel that you are part of the real change this country needs domestically or internationally is a choice that is really made down deep inside.

Finally, to become the Ambassador of France, sorry I would NEVER COMPLAIN. It is not Iraq or Afghanistan. Ok?

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Obama's Weekly Radio Address (Video and Transcript), January 10, 2009

Turning Around Unemployment



Obama Internal Report

Transcript

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Inauguration Luncheon Menu, 2009

Here is the menu and protocol:

The 2009 Inaugural Luncheon Menu
First Course

* Seafood Stew
* Duckhorn Vineyards, 2007 Sauvignon Blanc, Napa Valley

Second Course

* A Brace of American Birds (pheasant and duck), served with Sour Cherry Chutney and Molasses Sweet Potatoes
* Goldeneye, 2005 Pinot Noir, Anderson Valley

Third Course

* Apple Cinnamon Sponge Cake and Sweet Cream Glacé
* Korbel Natural “Special Inaugural Cuvée,” California Champagne

The first course will be served on replicas of the china from the Lincoln Presidency, which was selected by Mary Todd Lincoln at the beginning of her husband's term in office. The china features the American bald eagle standing above the U.S. Coat of Arms, surrounded by a wide border of "solferino," a purple-red hue popular among the fashionable hosts of the day.

The floral arrangements, designed by JLB Floral of Alexandria, Virginia, will feature hydrangeas in shades of purple and blue, Hot Mojolica spray roses, bright Red Charlotte roses and light blue Delphinium in a footed brass compote. After the luncheon, the floral arrangements will be given to the Walter Reed Army Medical Center.

The backdrop for the luncheon will be a painting, chosen for occasion, and borrowed from the New-York Historical Society. The painting, "View of the Yosemite Valley," by Thomas Hill, reflects the majestic landscape of the American West and the dawn of a new era. The subject of the painting, Yosemite Valley, represents an important but often overlooked event from Lincoln's presidency -- his signing of the 1864 Yosemite Grant, which set aside Yosemite Valley and the Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias as a public reserve.

During the Inaugural Luncheon it is traditional for the President and Vice President to be presented with gifts by the Congress on behalf of the American people. The President and Vice President will each be presented with a framed official photograph taken of their swearing-in ceremony by a Senate photographer, as well as flags flown over the U.S. Capitol during the inaugural ceremonies.

The President and Vice President will also receive one-of-a-kind engraved crystal bowls, created by the Lenox Company of Bristol, Pennsylvania. President Obama will receive a bowl depicting the White House on a crystal base inscribed with “Barack H. Obama, The Presidential Inauguration, January 20, 2009.” Vice President Biden will receive a bowl depicting the United States Capitol, on a crystal base inscribed with “Joseph R. Biden Jr. , The Vice Presidential Inauguration, January 20, 2009.” The bowls were designed by Timothy Carder and hand-cut by master glass-cutter Peter O’Rourke.

Each guest at the Inaugural Luncheon will receive a crystal vase etched with a depiction of the U.S. Capitol, designed by Paula Skene, an artist in Emeryville, California, and handcrafted by Evergreen Crystal of Montrose, Colorado.

The Smithsonian Chamber Players, who are artists in residence at the Smithsonian National Museum of American History, will provide music for the Inaugural Luncheon. The ensemble, directed by cellist Kenneth Slowik, is renowned for its performances of period music on the musical instruments in the Smithsonian’s collection.

Members of the Joint Congressional Committee on Inaugural Ceremonies are Senator Dianne Feinstein, Chairman; Ranking Member of the Senate Rules Committee Bob Bennett; Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid; Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi; House Majority Leader Steny Hoyer; and House Minority Leader John Boehner.

Participants at the luncheon:
The luncheon, hosted by the members of the Joint Congressional Committee on Inaugural Ceremonies, has been a tradition for more than a century. Approximately 200 guests including the new President, Vice President, members of their families, the Supreme Court, Cabinet designees, and members of Congressional leadership will attend the event in Statuary Hall.

More information, here

All inaugural information, look to your right, under labels and click on inauguration.

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Friday, January 9, 2009

Jesse White, IL Secretary of State has certified Burris

Ok, now seat Burris.

Following a decision by the Illinois Supreme Court, Jesse White, the Illinois secretary of state, has certified Roland Burris' appointment to the Senate, removing a major roadblock blocking Burris' ascension to the body.

According to his office, White has signed a certificate saying that Roland Burris' appointment document is "true and accurate."

The move came just hours after Illinois' top state court ruled that White's approval was not necessary for a valid appointment to the Senate for Burris by Gov. Rod Blagojevich.

What is the hold up now? Does Reid and Durbin now want to string this out and wait for the IL Senate to impeach Blago? That could take up to February. What is the excuse NOW?

Seat Roland Burris and let the circus leave D.C.

Source

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Dick Durbin, Bad Move Not to Seat Burris

The IL Supreme Court came down with its decision, "no signature required by the Secretary of State to seat Burris."

Now this is all about being mad at Blago and the predicament Blago played Durbin and Reid. And Blago did. He out foxed, out politicked them all in D.C., but it does not change the law.

Durbin can play hard ball all he wants, but expect more lawsuits from Burris, probably all the way to the Supreme Court. Let the court tell the U.S. Senate what they KNOW they should do, but refuse to.

And racism? How do we know? I mean, this is still the lily white, old boys network. Well, the majority of them and very few persons of color in those chambers. Is Burris a good pick? Yes, as far as no scandal, but for 2010 to run, no. Does the senate really want to continue the high drama circus? Is it worth it in the end? One word, NO. Seat Burris and Illinois find another candidate to run in 2010.

Dick Durbin just made a very bold announcement, in the wake of the Illinois Supreme Court decision that Roland Burris does not need the Secretary of State's signature on his certificate: As far as the Senate is concerned, Burris still needs that signature for his appointment to be legal and valid, and the seat will just have to stay vacant.

"At this point we've clearly reached an impasse," Durbin told reporters in Chicago.

Most legal scholars at this point believe the Burris appointment to be legal, and that an attempt to keep Burris out can be successfully challenged in court. But it's become obvious by now what Durbin's and the whole Democratic leadership's strategy is: Keep stalling on this thing long enough for Rod Blagojevich to be kicked out of office.

TPM

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Throwback: Harry S Truman Inauguration, 1949 (Video)



Transcript of Harry S. Truman's Inaugural Address

JFK, 1961 Inauguration
LBJ, 1965 Inauguration

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Steps Taken to Protect Barack Obama (Video)

We don't like to read stuff or hear stuff like this, but we live in real time.



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Biden steps down Thursday from the senate

Finally, a date. Biden is on his last congressional junket before assuming the Vice-Presidency.

Vice President-elect and senior Delaware Sen. Joseph Biden will step down from the Senate at 5 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 15, according to a letter to the Senate read into the record by Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-Nev.) today.

"Mr. President, what a sad but happy day it is to have that letter read before the world. Joe Biden, from the day I came to the Senate, was the most gracious, helpful person one could image," Reid said, after announcing Biden's formal resignation. "And for Barack Obama, having chosen him, speaks volumes about Barack Obama. So we will miss Senator Biden and his many, many years in the Senate, but we look forward to his working arm in arm with Barack Obama for the next eight years."

Biden is traveling in South Asia, along with South Carolina Sen. Lindsey Graham (R) and others, on what will be his last congressional delegation trip before assuming the vice presidency.

Delaware Gov. Ruth Ann Minner (D) is slated to name former Biden chief of staff Ted Kaufman to replace Biden in the Senate.

Source

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First Grandma Moving to the White House



Yes, Michelle Obama's mother is moving to the White House with the First Family. It is being quoted as, "temporary" for now, but she is in da house....

President-elect Barack Obama's mother-in-law, Marian Robinson, is moving into the White House at least temporarily to join Michelle Obama and the two children, transition officials said Friday.

That's good news not just for late-night comics, but for 10-year-old Malia and 7-year-old Sasha. During the campaign, Robinson retired from her job as a bank executive secretary to help care for her granddaughters.

"Mrs. Robinson will be coming with the family to help the girls get acclimated, and she will determine in the coming months whether or not she wants to stay in D.C. permanently," said Katie McCormick Lelyveld, spokeswoman for Michelle Obama.

Source

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Blago's Crazy Press Conference (Video)

Governor Rod Blagojevich, ".....I won't be that long....

He talked about what HE has accomplished as governor and at the end, rambled on continuously and "I am not surprised at this." Meaning, impeachment.

The circus drama continues....



MSNBC

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IL Supreme Court States: White’s signature on Burris appointment papers unneeded

IL Supreme Court states Secretary of State, Jesse White's signature is not required by law. So, this means that it is back to the senate and Leader Harry Reid.

The Illinois Supreme Court this afternoon denied a writ of mandamus sought by Roland Burris to order Secretary of State Jesse White to affix his signature to Burris' U.S. Senate paperwork. The court said there is nothing in state law that requires White’s signature on the appointment document.

Source
Actual IL Supreme Court Ruling

Is this ever going to end?

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Obama press conference, taps Blair, Panetta to head Intelligence (CIA) - Video, Transcript

First, Obama talks about the 7.2 unemployment rise in this country.



Transcript

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Illinois House Votes to Impeach Blago

Blago having a press conference at 2 PM (CST).

Not surprised here. Now the House throws it to the Senate in Illinois. The Senate has to have a trial to get rid of Blago. After seeing Blago's moxie, expect this to be the battle to the END.

Driven by anger and politics, the Illinois House has voted to impeach Gov. Rod Blagojevich.

The unprecedented action sets the stage for a Senate trial on whether he should be thrown out of office for corruption and abuse of power.

House Majority Leader Barbara Flynn Currie says Blagojevich has "forfeited his right to hold office." She noted that he hasn't given the people of Illinois an explanation for the criminal charges filed against him by federal prosecutors.

And Republican leader Tom Cross called the Blagojevich scandal "an embarrassment" that has made Illinois a national laughingstock.

He says lawmakers should be angry over what Blagojevich has done to state government.

now that the state house has voted for impeachment, Blagojevich faces a trial in the state Senate. If convicted there, he would be removed from office.

Impeachment required just 60 votes. The final result was 114-1.



Source
Source 2

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7.2% Unemployment, this is dangerously close to "DOUBLE DIGIT"

Americans are suffering, not able to pay their bills, hard to keep afloat and this is serious.

The nation's unemployment rate bolted to 7.2 percent in December, the highest level in 16 years, as nervous employers slashed 524,000 jobs. The labor market is expected to remain weak as mass layoffs continue.

The Labor Department's report, released Friday, underscored the terrible toll the deepening recession is having on workers and companies, and highlights the hard task President-elect Barack Obama faces in resuscitating the flat-lined economy.

For all of 2008, the economy lost a net total of 2.6 million jobs. That was the most since 1945, when nearly 2.8 million jobs were lost. Although the number of jobs in the U.S. has more than tripled since then, losses of this magnitude are still being painfully felt.

I have been writing about unemployment and lack of jobs. There is much blame to go around, but it starts in Washington, DC and with George W. Bush our president, who sat around and did NOTHING, until it was desperately too late.
With the recession in full swing, the nation’s employers shed 524,000 jobs in December, the government reported Friday, and a rapidly deteriorating economy promised more significant losses in the months ahead. December’s job losses brought the total for 2008 to 2.6 million, spanning a recession that started 12 months ago.

The recession was in full swing well over a year ago, Bush did not admit to it until late summer, early fall. At this pace, expect double digit unemployment, loss of jobs by spring. Bad news, all around.



CBS
NY Times

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Minnesotans want Norm Coleman to CONCEDE

I lived in Minnesota for six years. Yes, I froze my "you know what off", but one thing I learned from living there, when the election is over, it is over. If you lose, you stand on the podium, gracefully and concede, move on.

The mandatory recount has commenced and ended. The votes spoke for themselves. It was clear transparency and bi-partisianship. Everyone has agreed. The canvass board certified Al Franken the winner and Norm Coleman is now eating sour grapes.

Norm Coleman lost the race for governor to Jesse Ventura (the former wrestler) and now to Al Franken (the comedian). Those are hard acts to follow. He is fighting for his political survival but it is truly over.

After looking at the circus in Illinois, the inauguration less than 2 weeks from now, people are OVER the election. Norm Coleman needs to concede.

When Norm Coleman announced on Tuesday that he was contesting the Minnesota election result, he said he was doing it to ensure that the will of the people was followed. But a new SurveyUSA poll shows just the opposite: Minnesotans want this thing to end.

The numbers: 49% disagree with Coleman's decision to contest the election, compared to 42% who agree. There also is no great constituency for the Coleman campaign's claim that the recount was slanted against them, with 56% saying it was fair to both candidates and only 31% saying it was unfair to Coleman. When the question is phrased as to what to do next, 44% say Coleman should concede, 31% want to hold a new election, and eight percent want to have another recount.

Source

Palin backpeddling since her video viagra has been exposed (Video)

Going after Katie Couric, Caroline Kennedy, Tina Fey, the Media and you have higher aspirations for another office? Can't Sarah Palin figure out to keep her mouth shut, already?



See the Palin interview, here

Obama to Meet President Felipe Calderon of Mexico

This is a tradition for the President of Mexico to meet the President-Elect before being sworn into office.

President-elect Barack Obama will meet with Mexico’s President Felipe Calderón on Monday, January 12. The meeting will be in Washington, DC at the Mexican Cultural Institute. There is a long-standing tradition, since 1980, of U.S. presidents meeting with the Mexican president prior to being sworn in to underscore the important relationship between the United States and Mexico. This meeting is in keeping with that tradition.

Source

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Can Michelle Obama save fashion? (Video)

Retail, GOOD LUCK. And I did buy that dress (black/white) that she wore on The View, that dress SOLD OUT.



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Inaugural Tickets on Sale TODAY @ 1 PM EST, $25 a ticket

5,000 Inaugural tickets going on sale through Ticketmaster @ 1 PM (EST) TODAY.

The Presidential Inaugural Committee announced today that 5,000 tickets for the 56th Inaugural Parade will go on sale to the public at 1:00 PM EST today for $25 each. Tickets will allow spectators access to bleachers along the historic parade route from the Capitol to the White House. Tickets will be available for sale at Ticketmaster.com or by phone at 202-397-SEAT(7328), 410-547-SEAT or 703-573-SEAT(7328).

Tickets will be distributed on a first come, first serve basis.

"We are very pleased to make these tickets available to the public as part of our commitment to holding the most open and accessible Inauguration in history," said Presidential Inaugural Committee Executive Director Emmett S. Beliveau. "The Inaugural Parade is a celebration of America, and we are working to make sure that as many citizens as possible can take part in this historic tradition."

Source

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Obama Announcement on Defense Picks

Today, President-elect Barack Obama announced that he intends to nominate the following individuals for key posts at the United States Department of Defense (DoD): William J. Lynn III, Deputy Secretary of Defense; Robert F. Hale, Under Secretary of Defense (Comptroller); Michèle Flournoy, Under Secretary of Defense (Policy); and Jeh Charles Johnson, General Counsel.

President-elect Obama said, "I am confident that these distinguished individuals have the expertise and commitment needed to help me implement a sustainable national security strategy that combats 21st century threats and keeps the American people safe. They share with me the utmost respect for our brave men and women in uniform, and will work day and night to support our troops, strengthen our military, and advance our capacity to carry out 21st century missions. Together with Secretary Gates and our military, we will work to responsibly end the war in Iraq, defeat al Qaeda and the Taliban, and renew America's strength and standing in the world. I am honored that they have joined me in this mission, and I trust that they will serve the American people well."

Read all the bios, here

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Thursday, January 8, 2009

Throwback: LBJ (Lyndon Baines Johnson), Inauguration 1965 (Video)





Transcript of Speech
JFK, Inauguration 1961

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The Obama Dog Debate (Video)

This is quite funny...



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China Time, as in White House China



I LOVE china. That is another secret about me.

I also love Waterford Crystal and have most of the pieces for the Carina pattern and inherited many pieces of the Lismore pattern. And I have my bottle of Dom Perignon ready for January 20, 2009 to click my Carina champaign flutes with my husband for Barack Obama's Inauguration. See, we having our own party!!!

Ok, my everyday dinnerware is Pfaltzgraff's "Midnight Black". It was a pattern my husband picked out. I was not crazy about an "all black pattern", but it is suttle, looks aztec and has grown on me. My main china is Lenox's "Citation Gold". Service for 8. I have over the years collected all the bells and whistles, but have used the service only twice.

So, before the Bushs leave the White House, Laura Bush uncovered the George W. Bush State China.





Here is the Magnolia Residence China. Not crazy about this pattern. Don't like flowers or bugs in the middle of my plate, but hey, my mother loves this pattern.





Since I am a china, crystal buff I remember the part of the movie from, "The American President" when Michael Douglas was trying to mack Annette Bening in the "Dish Room", and she corrected him and said it is the "China Room". Yes, this is one of my favorite movies.

Tidbits:

The room was created by Ellen Wilson, President Woodrow Wilson's wife in 1917.

Seems like two-term presidents have time to order this china, because Presidents Carter, Nixon and George H.W. Bush did not, since they were one term presidents, while Nixon resigned during his second term.

The Bush China was paid not by the tax payers but the White House Historical Association, a private foundation.

ABC
White House Press Avail
The China Room
Pictures of the Presidential China from Washington on, here

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Palin Criticizes Couric, Fey, Kennedy and the Media (Video)

The Sarah Palin Show, she just can't stop talking. She still can not get over that "Katie Couric Takedown", as in what publications do you read? And in her absent answer of she could not answer.

This is a documentary by a conservative blogger, John Ziegler, FYI.




Source

All of Sarah Palin's interviews with Katie Couric, click here.

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Obama announces Governor Tim Kaine (D-VA) to run the DNC (Video)



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It is official, Obama is the Next President of the United States

As Dick Cheney arose from his undisclosed location, this was his last act as President of the Senate.

Congress has officially declared Barack Obama the next President of the United States after tallying electoral college votes in a centuries old tradition.

The House and Senate met in joint session to hear their colleagues read off the electoral votes from the 50 states and the District of Columbia. The outcome, never in doubt, was 365 votes for Obama and Vice President-elect Joe Biden, and 173 votes for John McCain and his running mate, Sarah Palin.

Both Democrats and Republicans gave a standing ovation as Vice President Dick Cheney, in his role as president of the Senate, announced the vote count for Obama.

And this stuff that the country is "right to center", please, not with the thumpin' the Republicans took.



Source

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Throwback: JFK (John F. Kennedy), 1961 Inauguration (Video)



Transcript

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Harry Reid needs to retire as Senate Leader

I just read kos, front page on "Harry Reid's disastrous few weeks".

After reading this which he sources Jane Hamsher's piece on Reid, which I implore everyone to read because she is spot on, just makes me say, "Reid needs to go."

Reid as Rachel Maddow's showed us last night has continued to CAVE on everything. I mean everything. But it was Leader Reid who has always led the fight and then resoundingly, always retreat.

I never understood Reid jumping in Illinois politics. This is the state of hardball, for real. Reid putting his foot in our backyard was idiotic, when he did not know the players and what the hell, REALLY was going on.

Burris should have been seated, with no fanfare, and this crap should have moved on. But no, we had to sit and laugh at the ridiculousness we saw on Tuesday. In fact, does anyone remember the new congress getting sworn in? Hell, I don't because the TV was all eyes on Burris. He is the most famous, "soon to be senator" with name recognition than most senators in the senate. for real.

Reid's bad politicking got the Republicans to use the same verbiage against seating Al Franken, that damn signature on a certificate.

He counters by calling Secretary of State Jesse White, who has already said he won't sign Burris's certification, and encourages him. What White is doing is most certainly outside his legal authority -- the Secretary of State doesn't have veto power. But Reid not only gives White a high five, he tells him they'll use this to keep Burris from being seated.

Then he smugly chortles about how he'll manipulate Senate procedure and punt to the Rules Committee, and assures everyone that they will drag things out for months if necessary until Blago is impeached and his successor appoints someone else. And he does it in the press.

Upon reading this, Cornyn announces that Franken won't have a signed certification either, and the GOP will use it to keep him from being seated,

Now, Reid and Company (which is the Democrats) has back peddled, are now treating Roland Burris like he was a long lost friend, and has made a path for Burris to be seated.

This entire travesty is just too much. I am with Obama and not the drama. The Democrats have a very unique stand; they are in charge of every damn thing. Can someone remind them of this so they can put their smart hats on and start governing?

REWIND: Jane Hamsher on 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue on Monday Night



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Obama's Economic Speech, "American Recovery and Reinvestment" (Video and Transcript)



Transcript

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Obama emphasizes doing nothing for the economy will be disastrous

Well, we cannot blame this one on Obama. It did not unfold, happen on his watch. This is all under George W. Bush's watch. The same failed president who ignored the housing meltdown, refused to use the "R" word which is recession, but now we may have to use the "D" word which is depression.

One thing I do agree with Chuck Todd is how the Bush Administration used the "sense of urgency" to get money, legislation passed. The Wall Street crash which resulted in the 700B TARP money, the fear tactic used to push legislation for the Patriot Act. So, expect Republicans to all of a sudden be concerned, expect them to read the entire devil in the details, to drag this out. The good thing, the Democrats is a majority in the house and senate and it will be up to the whips in these chambers to get members on board to pass Obama's legislation for the economy.

"I don't believe it's too late to change course, but it will be if we don't take dramatic action as soon as possible," Obama will say, according to excerpts of his speech provided by a transition aide.

"If nothing is done, this recession could linger for years," he is expected to say.

Obama is right the DEPRESSION can linger for years. Let's be frank and honest here. I have written about the UNEMPLOYMENT NUMBERS. Every single person of working status should be concerned about these numbers because it affects us all. If the job numbers are over 600K this month, this is devastating. We are looking at unemployment to hit over 1M sooner than later. The claims for benefits from unemployment are so overwhelming that the actual on-line, phone systems around this country are crashing. Jobs are continuing to be slashed all over and for the economy this is not good. These are not recession numbers any longer, but depression numbers.
President-elect Barack Obama warned that without immediate steps by the government to revive the economy, family incomes will drop, the unemployment rate could reach “double digits” and the U.S. risks losing a “generation of potential and promise.”

Obama is correct on all the above, but are we too late? We will soon see.

Excerpts from Obama Speech

CNN
Bloomberg

Obama's Major Speech on the Economy will be televised today, 10A CST, I will post the video of the speech when available.

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Wednesday, January 7, 2009

Obama Cabinet Confirmation Hearings Schedule

h/t DemConWatch

Hearing Schedule

Jan 8, 10 AM - Tom Daschle - Secretary of Health and Human Services - Health, Education, Labor & Pension (Also Finance)
Jan 9, 9:30 AM - Hilda Solis - Labor - Health, Education, Labor & Pension
Jan 13, Hillary Clinton - Secretary of State - Foreign Relations
Jan 13, 10 AM - Arne Duncan - Education - Health, Education, Labor & Pension
Jan 13, 10 AM - Steve Chu - Energy - Energy & Natural Resources
Jan 13, 10 AM - Shaun Donovan - Housing and Urban Development - Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs
Jan 14, 10 AM - Lisa Jackson, EPA - Envronment & Public Works
Jan 14 - Eric Shinseki - Veteran Affairs - Veteran's Affairs
Jan 14, 10 AM - Tom Vilsack - Agriculture - Agriculture, Nutrition & Forestry
Jan 14, 2 PM - Peter R. Orszag, Director, Office of Management and Budget, Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs
Jan 14, 2 PM - Robert L. Nabors II, Deputy Director, Office of Management and Budget, Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs
Jan 15, 9:30 - Eric Holder - Justice - Judiciary
Jan 15, 9:30 - Ken Salazar - Interior - Energy & Natural Resources
Jan 15 - Tim Geithner - Treasury - Finance
Jan 15, 10 AM - Janet Napolitano - Secretary of Homeland Security - Homeland Security & Government Affairs
Jan 15 - Susan Rice - UN Ambassador

Still to be scheduled:

Ray LaHood - Transportation - Commerce, Science & Transportation
TBD - Commerce - Commerce, Science & Transportation
Tom Daschle - Health & Human Services - Finance (Also HEL&P)

No hearing needed:

Robert Gates - Defense

More Information Here

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Obama got a new ride, new presidential car, for real



This is the new ride for Obama when he ascends to office.

Both GM and the Secret Service are keeping the specs of the car under tight wraps, but according to a spokesman for the car company, the limo is a new and "unique" design that was not simply built atop an existing GM chassis.

"It's designed and developed in a unique and specific way," said Cadillac spokesman Dave Caldwell. "I can't tell you what's underneath the hood in terms of technology, but it's similar to the way presidential limousines have been constructed in the past."

Gauging from what is known of earlier models, the car will reportedly have armor plating at least 5 inches thick, bulletproof windows, run-flat tires and a sealed interior to protect the president in case of chemical attack.

New car, new first family, new hope, new president. That is change you can believe in. Oh, I am sure the car will be painted ONE COLOR by the time O takes the oath.

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Mind Sorbet

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Confirmation Dates and Obama Administration Announcements

Jan 7, 2009

From Reuters:
Hillary Clinton's confirmation hearing will be held on January 13th
Susan Rice's confirmation hearing will be on January 15th.

Jan 5, 2009

Announced:
Don Gips - White House Director of Presidential Personnel
Bradley J. Kiley - Director of the Office of Management and Administration
Susan Sher - Associate Counsel to the President
Brian McKeon - Deputy National Security Advisor to the Vice President
Courtney O'Donnell - Communications Director for Dr. Jill Biden
Carlos E. Elizondo - Residence Manager and Social Secretary for the Vice President and Dr. Jill Biden
Pete Souza, Chief White House Photographer

Hearing date of 1/14/09 set for Secretary of Agriculture Nominee Tom Vilsack

more information @ DemConWatch

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Ann Coulter comes across as ridiculous on Today Show (Video)

Matt Lauer takes Ann Coulter to task....



She really shows her ass....

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Will Maria Pinto design Michelle Obama's Inaugural Collection?

I think so.

All of Michelle's remembered dresses were designed by this Chicago designer.

Maria Pinto, bio:

Her luxurious women’s accessories collection debuted at Bergdorf Goodman after being “discovered” by past president Dawn Mello. That was 1991, and since the launch of her elegant women’s accessories and ready-to-wear line, Maria Pinto had been flattering women by providing entrance-making collections of cocktail and evening clothing. Now, Pinto’s collection adapts the luxurious fabrics and seductive styling of her eveningwear for their daytime needs.

Pinto’s design signatures are the sensual fit of her clothing, and her seasonal selection of luxurious European fabrics. She shares the culture of Italy’s legendary artists and designers, which informs her style as much as the attention to detail, draping, and structure she learned as an associate designer of the legendary Geoffrey Beene. Season after season, she marries the rich traditions of Europe’s artisinal textiles with the shapely modernity of great American design.

In addition to her ready-to-wear clothing and accessories, Pinto has designed seductive dance costumes for the Joffrey Ballet. She is the recipient of prestigious design awards including the Gold Coast Fashion Award, which formerly honored Donna Karan, Bill Blass, and Anne Klein. A Fine Arts graduate of the School of the Art Institute of Chicago, Pinto also studied at New York’s Parson’s School of Design and Fashion Institute of Technology.

The Maria Pinto Collection is available at Saks Fifth Avenue, Barneys New York,
and Takashimaya.

Over at Mrs. O, they are wondering the same thing, will it be Pinto?
A look at Mrs O’s previous evening wear, including this gown, gives a few intriguing hints as to what we might be able to expect on Inauguration day. Interestingly, given her usual vibrant hues, Mrs O has in the past often tended towards a softer palette for evening in pastel pinks and blues.

She is clearly a fan of Pinto’s embellished wraps and seems to favour a less structured, more softly draped look than she chooses for daywear. She often wears her hair up in the evening, the better to showcase the statement earrings she favours for formal events and the elegant lines of her dresses.

So will Mrs O stay true to form or surprise us all? Only time will tell.

I know one thing, I loved her beautiful purple sheath dress with Michelle's timeless black belt and the saucy but refined red dress that Michelle wore to meet President and Mrs. Bush. Those were stamped by Pinto.

Michelle, keep her in your rolodex rotation, she knows how to make you look like a knock out.

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Roland Burris Press Conference (Video)



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Today's Great Picture(s), Presidential Reunion


Number(s) 41, 44, 43, 42, and 39

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Apparently, Obama has pushed to seat Burris

He should.

He is the leader of the Democratic Party.

After yesterday's circus, Harry Reid has egg on his face, totally.

The apparent decision to seat Roland Burris came after aides to President-elect Barack Obama contacted senior Senate Democrats and suggested that they reverse course and accept Gov. Rod Blagojevich's controversial appointment, according to a senior Dem congressional aide.

Just minutes after the decision to seat Burris was reported, Obama offered the veteran Illinois pol praise and promised a working relationship.

"That is a Senate matter," he said of the news. "But I know Roland Burris, obviously he is from my home state. He is a fine public servant, if he gets seated then I am going to work with Roland Burris like all other senators to make sure that the people if Illinois and the people across the country are served."

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Harry Reid, Dick Durbin on How the Senate will Seat Burris (Video)



There has always been a different take on "if or if not" the signature is required from the Secretary of State in Illinois. Jesse White came out publicly and said his signature is not required, today. Burris filed with the Illinois Supreme Court to make the decision whether White should sign the certification, or not. Expect a fast turnaround on this decision because this has become a mockery, and an eyesore on the Democratic Party Leader, Barack Obama. Burris will be seated.

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Rep. Jim Clyburn (D-SC) on morning joe, "Burris will be seated" (Video)



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Obama Press Conference to Announce "Waste Czar" or Chief Performance Officer, Nancy Killefer (Video & Transcript)



Washington Post

Transcript

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Get ready for Senator Roland Burris (Audio)

I have been writing about this, since this story hit the fan. Since I am from Illinois, grew up in Chicago and now in the burbs, this whole tawdry affair has turned into a circus.

Jesse White, Secretary of State in Illinois refused to sign Roland Burris' certificate for appointment. This is the excuse Harry Reid is using to not seat Burris. The problem is, as reported, the certificate does not need to be signed for an appointment and once the information got out that Harry Reid phoned White not to sign it, anger crept in the African-American community.

It is not that this community is crazy about Burris, it is mostly split and would prefer someone else, the issue is how this has been handled and the law. Jesse White was on WVON-AM talk radio (Chicago) on Monday, Clifford Kelley's show and was plummeted about his participation in all of this and many threatened they would cast another vote for him. White is an old-school, machine type politician here in this state. This Secretary of State job is one he has been sitting on for many years, a cushy job, a machine type politics job. So, when you go on talk radio and can not answer questions like, "Is the signature required or not", you have problems. That is just what happened here. So, White goes on WGN-AM 720, talk radio, a station that is received throughout the State of Illinois this morning, and this comes from his mouth, "I've been made the fall guy":

Illinois Secretary of State Jesse White said this morning he has been made "the fall guy" by the U.S. Senate, which he said is using him as an excuse not to seat Roland Burris.

"They could have seated him without my signature; my signature is not required," he told WGN-AM 720's John Williams.

The Senate barrred Burris Tuesday, saying he lacked proper credentials in that his appointment was not signed by White.

But White said today that "my signature is mostly ceremonial, rather than a point of law."

"They played a little bit of a game with him [Burris] yesterday," he added.

Asked by Williams if he had been made "the fall guy," White responded: "You're absolutely correct."

Listen to the full interview, here.

Jesse White just cut Harry Reid to the knees. There is not a reason by law to not seat Roland Burris. Whether we like what happened or not, the law is on the side of Burris.

And of course, Senator Dianne Feinstein (D-CA) came out yesterday and said, "SEAT BURRIS". Burris has a meeting today with Harry Reid and the Senator Dick Durbin, senior senator of Illinois.
The likelihood that Burris, a Democrat, will eventually prevail and become the Senate's only black member after Obama's resignation from the seat, increased Tuesday evening when a key chairwoman got behind him, cracking what had been united public front by Senate Democrats against a Blagojevich appointee.

Burris was scheduled to meet with the Senate's top two Democrats — Majority Leader Harry Reid of Nevada and assistant leader Dick Durbin of Illinois — on Wednesday, a day after his paperwork was rejected at the opening of the 111th Congress.

Senate officials in both parties, speaking on the condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to speak publicly for Senate members, said there is a growing expectation on Capitol Hill that the saga will end with Burris being seated.

Now can the media circus end and can Illinois Democrats get it together and get a solid candidate for 2010. This also relegates Blago to more of a local story, until any indictment comes down. This takes away the media circus and possible interruption on the Obama Inauguration. It means we can focus on what is really going on in this country which is the sour economy and loss of jobs.

At least, I hope so.

Source

And the AP is reporting Roland Burris will be seated today. I guess the Democratic "Powers that Be" Leadership finally got the message after the media circus, yesterday. Politico denies this will happen, but in the Reid/Durbin presser, it is no doubt that Burris will be seated and SOON.

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Tuesday, January 6, 2009

The Case for Dr. Sanjay Gupta as Surgeon General (Video)

After listening to Ezra Klein, this pick makes the most sense for what Obama wants to do with healthcare.



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Countdown on Burris, "...this is the biggest clusterf*** since Monica Lewinsky" (Video)

The circus is now in D.C........



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Bush is low down about the Obamas staying at Blair House

This is straight up low down. I can not WAIT until George W. Bush is gone FOR GOOD.

The veil is lifted. We now know who is booked at Blair House, kicking President-elect Barack Obama and his family to the waiting list and across Lafayette Park to the Hay-Adams Hotel.

The only overnight visitor at the presidential guest manse is none other than John Howard, a former Australian prime minister and leading member of President Bush's coalition of the willing in Iraq.

Howard and his entourage will be bunking at Blair House on Jan. 12, the night before he, former British Prime Minister Tony Blair and Colombian President Alvaro Uribe are to be awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom from Bush, said Sally McDonough, a spokeswoman for first lady Laura Bush. The three current and former heads of state are longtime political allies of Bush, and Blair and Howard were key partners in the U.S.-led war in Iraq.

Now Blair House looks small but had 119 rooms and 35 bathrooms.

Next, Howard is a former prime minister, they booted his ass out in Australia.

This is the same John Howard who made outrageous comments against Barack Obama, remember?
PRIME Minister John Howard has launched a broadside against US presidential hopeful Barack Obama, warning his victory could destroy Iraq and prospects for peace in the Middle East.

Mr Howard's stinging attack against the popular Democrat, who formally launched his bid for the Democratic candidacy overnight, also appears to commit Australian troops to staying in Iraq well into 2008.

Only days after saying Australia's alliance with the US was about more than his personal friendship with US President George W Bush, Mr Howard warned that an Obama victory would be a boost for the terrorists.

The man who wants to be the first black US president has pledged to withdraw US troops from Iraq by March 2008, a timetable Mr Howard believes is dangerous.

"I think that would just encourage those who wanted completely to destabilise and destroy Iraq, and create chaos and victory for the terrorists to hang on and hope for (an) Obama victory," Mr Howard told the Nine Network.

"If I was running al-Qaeda in Iraq, I would put a circle around March 2008, and pray, as many times as possible, for a victory not only for Obama, but also for the Democrats."

Again, I will be GLAD when Bush leaves Washington, D.C., for good.



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Senator Dianne Feinstein, "SEAT BURRIS"

Feinstein, (D-CA) says, "Seat Burris."

Damn, Harry Reid, are you not getting the message yet? The law is on the side of Burris.

Sen. Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.) broke with her party’s leadership Tuesday in calling for Roland Burris to be seated in the Senate once his paperwork is signed by the Illinois secretary of state.

Feinstein, a senior member of the Judiciary Committee, said that not allowing Burris to be seated could broadly undermine future gubernatorial appointments.

“I can’t imagine the secretary of state countermanding a gubernatorial appointment,” Feinstein said. “The question, really, is one in my view of law. And that is, does the governor have the power to make the appointment? And the answer is yes. Is the governor discredited? And the answer is yes.

“Does that affect his appointment power? And the answer is no until certain things happen.”

She added if Burris isn’t seated “it affects gubernatorial appointments all over the country.”

And on this note, as I am not a fan of Senator Feinstein, I AGREE. Seat the man and send the circus to another town.

Source

Jeb Bush not running for senate in 2010

Like he can win? After his brother George W. Bush destroyed this country and our international standing? Like folks are lined up to pull the lever for another Bush? Please. I don't care how often Papa Bush goes on television hawking his younger son, we don't want any more of the name BUSH.

Former Florida Governor Jeb Bush, brother of U.S. President George W. Bush, on Tuesday ruled out running for a Senate seat he had been considering contesting.

Bush, who was a popular Republican governor, said in a statement he would not run in 2010 for the Florida Senate seat that is being vacated by Republican Sen. Mel Martinez.

"While the opportunity to serve my state and country during these turbulent and dynamic times is compelling, now is not the right time to return to elected office," he said.

Good riddance.

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Harry Reid to Senator Norm Coleman, "CONCEDE" (Video)

Reid, Senate Leader, implores Coleman to concede to Al Franken in Minnesota. After the mandatory recount, Coleman LOST. Former Governor Arne Carlson (R-MN) calls for Coleman to concede. But Coleman will not.



Just keep the drama going....

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CNN's Sanjay Gupta for Surgeon General

Yes, the "O" Man is keeping us on our toes....

President-elect Barack Obama has offered the job of surgeon general to Dr. Sanjay Gupta, the neurosurgeon and correspondent for CNN and CBS, according to two sources with knowledge of the situation.

Gupta has told administration officials that he wants the job, and the final vetting process is under way. He has asked for a few days to figure out the financial and logistical details of moving his family from Atlanta to Washington but is expected to accept the offer.

When reached for comment today, Gupta did not deny the account but declined to comment.

The offer followed a two-hour Chicago meeting in November with Obama, who said that Gupta could be the highest-profile surgeon general in history and would have an expanded role in providing health policy advice, the sources said. Gupta later spoke with Tom Daschle, Obama's White House health czar and nominee for Health and Human Services secretary, and other advisers to the president-elect.

The man or coveted doctor is a good choice, a surprise pick, but he knows his stuff. Now, what is up with Howard Dean?

CNN
Source

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The West Wing & The Obama Adminstration (Video)

I saw this on MSNBC and found it on youtube. LOVE IT!!!



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Obama speaks about the Stimulus Package (Video)

Will ban all earmarks, I heard that one...



Transcript

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Chuck Todd drops Ambassadorship deal with Burris (Video)

This is being rumored. The deal is that Burris will be seated, will not run in 2010 as he as vocally indicated he would do, then leave office into an ambassadorship. This will give Illinois time to recruit a solid Democratic Candidate to run in 2010. They need to hurry up on this because Mark Kirk, IL-10, congressman is all over local television here in Chicago, looking more like an uncorrupted candidate for the Republican Party.

Democrats need to get this distraction off the table before Barack Obama's Inauguration, January 20, 2009.



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While the Democrats are chaotic, the GOP needs to be totally revamped

Yes, "Barack, the Magic Negro", does NOT HELP the Republican Party/GOP. Many states that Obama won had high influx of African Americans or Hispanic Americans and they voted NO to the Republican Party.

Now there is a fight for the direction of the Republican Party, by who will lead at the RNC.

But it is going to be TOUGH to change a party that has systematically attacked, banned, made fun of other ethnic cultures to advance. If you are not a white male, straight, god fearing, family man then the GOP has issues with you. Is this true? Well, with the rhetoric from the past coming from them, what do you think?

Micheal Steele, former Lt. Governor of Maryland, does not think "Barack, the Magic Negro" has helped his party at all.



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Rep. Xavier Beccera for Commerce Secretary?

He turned down the US Trade Representative job, but now...

An Obama transition team source said a veteran California congressman, Xavier Becerra, has emerged as the leading congressional candidate to replace Richardson, the Hispanic governor of New Mexico, as President-elect Barack Obama's choice for a job that will include overseeing the 2010 U.S. Census.

“Even though he turned down the trade representative slot, Becerra is not only Hispanic, but he has the skill, talent and experience to do the Commerce job,” said the source, who was not authorized to speak for the president-elect.

“Xavier's name has gone to the top of the list of potential replacements in part because he is a member of the House leadership, he is well liked, he has very good credentials, and, of course, he was an early Obama backer,” the source said.

[UPDATE]
"The Congressman has already expressed that he is staying in Congress and looks forward to working with the Obama Administration from his position as House Democratic Vice Chair," said Fabiola Rodriguez.

Source

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Inauguration and Ball Information, including the Youth Ball

Obama adds Youth Balls to the agenda.

President-elect Barack Obama will host a Youth Inaugural Ball, five Regional Inaugural balls, and a ball for his Home States - Illinois and Hawaii. Vice President-elect Joe Biden will host a ball for his Home States as well: Delaware and Pennsylvania. These balls round out the list of official inaugural balls to be held on Tuesday, January 20, along with the previously announced Neighborhood Inaugural Ball and Commander in Chief’s Ball. The President-elect and the Vice President-elect will appear at each of the ten inaugural balls.

Also, additional information and pricing:
The Youth ball is intended for young Americans aged 18-35 and will celebrate the inauguration of the new president and the role young Americans can play to serve their communities. Tickets will be available at a reduced price of $75.

The Regional Inaugural Balls are an inaugural tradition that President-elect Obama will continue, inviting guests from the Midwest, the West, the East, the South, and the Mid-Atlantic regions to their own celebrations. Tickets will be available to invited guests for $150.

To cap off the night, Obama and Biden will each host guests from their home states to a ball to celebrate their inaugurations with those who know them best - their friends, families and local supporters. Tickets to this event will also be available to invited guests for $150.

For information where these balls are at, etc., click here

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Ann Coulter on The Early Show and taken to task by Harry Smith (Video)

This is the woman who took Michelle Obama to task, making sensationalism statements just to sell her damn books.



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Burris, REFUSED!!!! (Video)

Well, our man, Roland Burris went to the senate, presented his credentials and was denied entry.



Burris turned back

The circus has officially moved from Illinois to Washington, D.C.!!!

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The Fight with Dianne Feinstein

There is much conventional wisdom being tossed around today about the comments or anger of Senator Dianne Feinstein not being consulted about the choice of Leon Panetta to head the CIA by Obama.

There are those who state not informing her was political poison, but maybe Obama did not want to inform her because it would have been leaked out and shot down before Obama could compose a press release. Maybe not forming her was intentional.

Feinstein, along with Senator Jay Rockefeller are now out in the open criticizing this choice, which gives the Republicans ammunition to criticize Obama for choosing Panetta instead of someone inside the agency.

My take, Barack Obama want a complete cut from the Bush Administration by this choice. Remember Dianne Feinstein and Jay Rockefeller was lock step with the Bush Administration with regards to intelligence. They definitely were not in the front rows at protesting against the use of torture.

Obama is sending an unequivocal message that controversial administration policies approving harsh interrogations, waterboarding and extraordinary renditions _ the secret transfer of prisoners to other governments with a history of torture _ and warrantless wiretapping are over, said several officials.

On the record, Feinstein has stated she would prefer Steve Kappes, this is fine and good but the decision is for Barack Obama. This from Glen Greenwald:
Few things could reflect better on Panetta's selection than the fact that Feinstein and Rockefeller -- two of the most Bush-enabling Senators -- are unhappy with it.

Bush enabling senators. Yes, that sums it up about Feinstein and Rockefeller. They have been in LOCK STEP with Bush; there is no denial about that. That is their record on intelligence.

But John Aravosis has another take on this matter:
First, a word about Difi, Rockefeller and Panetta.

1. Difi drives us nuts, and anyone who reads the blog knows it. She's the Dem we're always having to beat up in order to get her to do the right thing (though Max Baucus comes a close second). So, I readily acknowledge your, my, first impulse to be "who cares what Difi says?" The problem is that America cares. To us, Diane Feinstein is a pain in the butt. To my mother - aka Middle America - she's a smart person, who is an expert on the issue, who has a D after her name, and who thinks the guy may not be qualified. She also has power and can screw with Obama mightily, now and in the future. Our dislike for Difi is irrelevant to this equation.

2. Then there's Rockefeller. Totally worthless human being and an absolute joke as the outgoing Intelligence chair. But to America at large, he's the outgoing chair of the Senate Intelligence Committee, and a Democrat. What he says matters to ma and pa in the sticks, even if the rest of us think he's a joke. And when he questions Obama's nominee in such a critical area, it matters to the public at large.

3. Panetta. Interesting choice. Opposed torture, not wedded to the national security special interests. I acknowledge all of that, and applaud it. But because he's an unusual choice, even an unconventional one, I'd argue that you need to handle this nomination very carefully, so as to avoid any possible hiccups (Democrats per se need to tread carefully in the area of national security because we've spent so many years letting Republicans pummel us with it).

This is another reality. Folks from the left are angered to high heaven and have been for some time with Feinstein and Rockefeller, but most of America knows these two as competent, able, centrist, okay, Democrats. In this matter, I disagree.

The bottom line, we must stand with Barack Obama on this appointment. Obama campaigned on the atrocities of Gitmo and the illegal use of the intelligence community, especially with Iraq. This needs to be cleaned up. There would not be an Iraq War today had the intelligence not been tampered with to back the reason for invading Iraq. That is what happened, that is the truth, which is why it is time for sweepers at the CIA.

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Illinois Legislature rushing to impeach Blago

No one wants Rod Blagojevich impeached more than I do. After reading the verbal viagra of Blago, reading the sheer shock of attempting or thinking of selling Obama's senate seat, the nerve to attempt to rescind the money to Children's Memorial Hospital because of no campaign contribution and the disgust of the Tollway scandal is enough for any Illinoisan to write, "Throw his A** OUT!!"

But I want the process to be legally right, not in haste, but right.

The Illinois Legislature has huge egg on its face. Frankly, they failed to do their job of stripping the powers of Blago, when they had the opportunity. Now that Blago has appointed a senator to the US Senate and did this with the full power of the governorship, impeaching Blago is first and foremost in Springfield, Illinois.

Members of Gov. Rod Blagojevich's impeachment panel say they will move forward despite the possibility that they might not get to hear federal wiretaps of the governor's conversations with aides and others.

The secrecy of US Attorney Patrick Fitzgerald's office is that he doesn’t leak. The press and punditry has always spun on woulda, coulda, shoulda with Fitzgerald involved and much of the time they ended up with egg on their faces.

So, thinking along this line, what does the Illinois Legislature have as far as hard proof against Blago? If he was such political poison, why have this body not moved much sooner in kicking him out? Which brings me to what kind of proof do they actually have, with exception of what we have read from the Fitzgerald criminal complaint? Also, the legislature has asked for the tapes and to interview some of the persons in this criminal complaint and Fitzgerald has said, "No". Fitzgerald does not care about the political ping-pong here; the only thing that matters is the potential criminal case. So, what does the legislature have to throw out Blago, which the public does not know about?

These are valid questions. Anyone living in Illinois just wants this circus to leave town, and I mean like yesterday, but don't go and impeach because you failed as a body to do your job and got caught with egg on your faces. Impeach with undeniable proof, evidence that Blago is guilty of more that snippets of verbal viagra in print and on unheard tapes.
Prosecutors have offered to provide the impeachment panel with a few minutes of four tapes, but Blagojevich's chief defense counsel, Edward M. Genson, wants all of the tapes released.

"We are not going to ask that one tape, or two tapes, or three tapes or four tapes be offered," Genson told Chief Judge James F. Holderman of U.S. District Court on Monday. "We are going to ask that all of them be offered."

I agree with Genson, here. It is easy to cut snippets of taped conversations and it becomes bigger than life. What we need to know is the full content and context of these conversations, because it may end up being something else. How can snippets of tapes, no persons to testify in the open, and a bunch of speculation be enough to impeach Blago?

My take, impeachment is weak, for right now. I would like to see or at least have the legislature listen to the full tapes, but that won't happen. Yes, the legislature can go ahead with impeachment, but Blago is lawyered up and he may have the law on his side in these proceedings. Maybe the legislature needs to wait for an eminent indictment to come down by US Attorney Patrick Fitzgerald, which gives them all the power to impeach and remove Blago. Sure, everyone wants to move and impeach now, but look what happened to the grandstanding of IL Attorney General Lisa Madigan to remove Blagojevich from office, it was denied. Until the indictment comes down, and if the Illinois legislature does not have hard evidence, Blago just may have to continue as governor.

Source

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