Category: Politics

The Death (and Life) of Henry Hyde

Over thirty years ago, I walked on to the floor of the House Representatives on my first day as a congressional page – fidgeting in a new blue suit and trying desperately to hide the fact that I was terrified. I was immediately pushed into a scrum of members and pages running about in a close vote. Nobody really noticed the teenager being shoved around like flotsam and jetsam until I felt a huge hand grab me by the arm and pull me into a member’s seat. I looked up at a tall man in an outrageously bright canary yellow suit and a smile to match. It was Henry Hyde. Continue reading “The Death (and Life) of Henry Hyde”

Clinton and Rove Revise History on War: It Turns Out That No One Actually Supported the Iraq War

As the election approaches, it is becoming apparent that no one actually supported going to war in Iraq. In separate statements this week, Bill Clinton and Karl Rove revised history and their roles in supporting the Iraq War. Continue reading “Clinton and Rove Revise History on War: It Turns Out That No One Actually Supported the Iraq War”

Ashcroft Firm that Received $52 Million Contract is Filled With Republican Insiders and Former Aides

The highly controversial contract that could bring as much as $52 million to John Ashcroft’s new consulting firm seems to follow a trend in the Bush Administration of steering money to loyalists.  A glimpse at the principles of the firm show that all but one of the leaders are former Ashcroft aides or major Republican operatives or both. Continue reading “Ashcroft Firm that Received $52 Million Contract is Filled With Republican Insiders and Former Aides”

Federal Judge Accused of Sexual Assault: Could Face Criminal Charges or Impeachment

Federal trial judge Samuel Kent is facing possible criminal charges and impeachment after accusations of sexual harassment and assault. The judiciary itself is under criticism for its handling of the allegations stemming from the United District Court in Galveston and court employee Cathy McBroom. Continue reading “Federal Judge Accused of Sexual Assault: Could Face Criminal Charges or Impeachment”

Hugo Chavez Proclaims Anyone Voting Against Giving Him Near Absolute Power is a “Traitor”

Venezuela continues its horrible spin toward dictatorship this week as President Hugo Chavez told citizens that anyone voting against his constitutional changes (giving him potential power for life) would be “traitors.” Continue reading “Hugo Chavez Proclaims Anyone Voting Against Giving Him Near Absolute Power is a “Traitor””

Controversial U.S. Attorney Rachel Paulose Removed From Minnesota Post — Promoted in the Wake of Alleged Incompetence and Abuses

In a vintage moment for the Bush Administration, controversial U.S. Attorney Rachel Paulose was promoted to a position in Washington in the wake of widespread allegations of abuse and incompetence.  The move is expected to assist GOP Sen. Norm Coleman who was behind the nomination of Paulose despite her lack of experience.   Continue reading “Controversial U.S. Attorney Rachel Paulose Removed From Minnesota Post — Promoted in the Wake of Alleged Incompetence and Abuses”

Canada Adds “11 Yellowstones” to its Park System as Over-Taxed U.S. Parks Face Cuts

As U.S. Parks face cut back and no significant expansion of forested areas, Canada has set aside  25.5 million acres of land in the north for use as two new conservation areas — the equivalent to 11 Yellowstone National Parks. Continue reading “Canada Adds “11 Yellowstones” to its Park System as Over-Taxed U.S. Parks Face Cuts”

Justice May Appeal Jefferson Ruling to Supreme Court: Ruling Could Undermine Other Corruption Cases

In the expanding wreck called the Jefferson prosecution, the Justice Department is still reeling from its loss before the D.C. Circuit over its 2005 raid on the congressional office of Rep. William Jefferson. Continue reading “Justice May Appeal Jefferson Ruling to Supreme Court: Ruling Could Undermine Other Corruption Cases”