CitizenSugar -- Breaking News, Together.

Battle For Turkey Pardon Would Make Great Reality TV

LibertySugar — Wed, 26 Nov 2008 15:00:23 -0800

Last night on her show, Rachel Maddow described the grueling elimination process conducted to select two lucky turkeys who receive the president's Thanksgiving pardon.

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The competition begins with 13 turkeys, who then get trained to be comfortable around humans. The two turkeys with the best personalities won George W. Bush's pardon and a first-class trip to Disneyland, where they act as grand marshalls of the Thanksgiving parade and live happily ever after in Disneyland's frontier land.

As for the unlucky losers — you might meet one of the kicked-off turkeys at your local Subway. Watch Rachel break it down, and have a happy Thanksgiving!

Bush White House: We Don't Need Sweeping Pardons

CitizenSugar — Tue, 25 Nov 2008 14:30:56 -0800

The Bush administration has signaled that it won't be necessary to issue pardons for officials involved in harsh interrogation, even while the incoming Obama administration won't rule out an investigation. White House officials believe that legal opinions written by the Justice Department clear interrogators of any wrongdoing.

In September, Joe Biden said that the Obama administration would pursue appropriate charges against Bush officials not out of vengeance, but out of the need to preserve the notion that no one is above the law.

If Bush grants a blanket pardon to top officials, the public (and history) might consider it an admission that criminal activity plagued his presidency. Even so, do you expect to see preemptive pardons, for crimes such as torture or illegal wiretapping, before Bush leaves office?

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President Bush Calls Iraq War a Success

LibertySugar — Tue, 25 Nov 2008 00:01:50 -0800

While debris from collapsing financial institutions continue to fall during the final days of the Bush Administration, the President has found something he considers a "success" — the Iraq war.

In an interview played on Japanese TV this week, a "very pleased" Bush said:

I think the decision to remove Saddam Hussein was right. . . . We are bringing troops home because of the success in Iraq. But Iraq is not yet completely safe. So there will be a US presence for a while there at the request of the Iraqi government. The United States is willing to continue to help. Most countries there within a very broad coalition have come home but we want to help this government.

Since the war began, more than 4,200 US soldiers have died, along with hundreds of thousands of Iraqis. And don't forget the monetary cost. At the five-year anniversary, the cost of the Iraq war topped $600 billion — perhaps Bush forgot his original prediction that the war would cost only $60 billion. Despite the human and financial cost, do you think the Iraq war will ultimately be a success?

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Front Page: Thousands Gather in Baghdad to Protest US Pact

CitizenSugar — Fri, 21 Nov 2008 08:11:39 -0800

Supporters of radical Shiite cleric Moktada al-Sadr gathered in Baghdad today to protest the security agreement that gives the US authority to remain in Iraq. More than 10,000 protesters attended, and some burned an effigy of President Bush. — New York Times
US Attorney General Michael Mukasey collapsed on stage Thursday while giving a speech. Officials say he is feeling better and never transferred his power as attorney general. — AP

Mortgage giants Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac have decided to suspend home foreclosures until Jan. 9. The companies seized by the federal government do not want to bring more turmoil to struggling US families during the holidays. — Blooomberg
After another day of recounting, 46 percent of Minnesota's ballots have been counted, and the gap between Democrat Al Franken and Senator Norm Coleman has narrowed. Coleman is now leading by 136 votes, down from his unofficial lead of 215. — Minnesota Star

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President Bush Still Rules After Jan. 20?

LibertySugar — Thu, 20 Nov 2008 10:30:25 -0800

He may be a lame-duck president, but George W. Bush is determined to keep quacking away federal regulations before his time is up. Since many of Bush's plans contradict Barack Obama's agenda, why would he waste time issuing rules if they would soon be undone? The answer? It could take years for Obama to rescind some of these rules.

Nonprofit ProPublica has compiled a list of the Bush administration's last-minute rules and regulations. According to the list, some of the proposed changes would let federally funded institutions turn down abortions for moral or religious reasons; give greater surveillance authority to law enforcement; lease public lands for oil; allow construction projects with less concern for protected species; and subject HIV/AIDS prevention groups to new qualifying rules.

Obama's transition team has a close eye on these midnight regulations, but protracted efforts and court battles aimed to undo the rules surely lie ahead.

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Dallas Maverick Owner a Victim of Political Persecution?

LibertySugar — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 15:30:27 -0800

Entrepreneur billionaire Mark Cuban, the owner of the Dallas Mavericks, responded forcefully to the insider trading complaint filed against him by the SEC yesterday, saying that the case is based upon official's win-at-any-cost ambitions." The feds allege that Cuban sold shares of a soon-to-be-doomed Internet search company in 2004 while the price was still high.

So what could be the potential political motivation behind Cuban's charges? Cuban financed Loose Change, a film about 9/11. A source close to Cuban just provided a New York Times reporter with an email sent to Cuban from an SEC lawyer in 2007. The email has the subject "Loose Change" and SEC Chairman Christopher Cox was also copied. It states:

Previously, I thought you were merely foolish and naive. Now, however, I see that you are also a hypocrite. I guess your belief in free speech has severe limitations. If someone else is the victim of an absurd conspiracy theory, you defend your right to participate in smearing the good name of a patriot like President Bush. But, when you are the subject of a parody of the attack you have endorsed, you suddenly issue threats. I think I will email this to Chairman Cox myself. I think he will enjoy it. I’m sure he is also a Laker fan. Since Chairman Cox may not know the background, I will explain. Mark Cuban is the owner of the Dallas Mavericks and has participated in distributing the vicious and absurd documentary, “Loose Change,” which posits that President Bush planned the demolition of the World Trade Center as a pretext for going to war against Iraq.

Do you think Cuban is suffering political payback, or is this email from the SEC lawyer (who was later punished for it) just evidence of stupidity?

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Briefing Book! Texas to Lose Influence When Bush Leaves DC

LibertySugar — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 12:30:23 -0800

Texas: OK to mess with Texas? When Bush leaves office, Texas becomes just another state after decades of influence. — Politico
Rivals: Want a peek inside yesterday's McCain-Obama meeting? Take a look at a completely made-up slideshow dramatization. — 23/6
Airports: Traveling for the holidays? Five carry-on items to prevent airport spending. — SavvySugar
Clinton: Republicans should be happy if Hillary becomes secretary of state? Hillary's criticism of Obama's foreign policy could warm the hearts of neoconservatives. – Huffington Post

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Bush Touts Religious Freedom and US Record at UN

LibertySugar — Thu, 13 Nov 2008 14:30:35 -0800

Speaking at the UN Culture of Peace gathering, President Bush emphasized how religious freedom is crucial to a flourishing society. Bush maintained that freedom to worship as you want is "God's gift to every man, woman, and child."

Bush cited the US as an example of how to promote religious freedom:

Our nation has helped defend the religious liberty of others, from liberating the concentration camps of Europe to protecting Muslims in places like Kosovo, Afghanistan, and Iraq. We're not afraid to stand with religious dissidents and believers who practice their faith even where it is unwelcome.

At the meeting billed as an "interfaith" dialogue, the president of Pakistan also spoke out against hate speech, saying: "The imaginary fear of Islam has been rising. This is exactly what the terrorists had hoped to provoke. Those in the West who accept this are falling into the trap of the terrorists."

As this was most likely Bush's last appearance at the UN, do you think he went out with the right message?

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Bush Admits Mistakes, Regrets Mission Accomplished Banner

LibertySugar — Wed, 12 Nov 2008 03:00:32 -0800

Perhaps determined to work on his legacy before he leaves office, President Bush has identified episodes from the last eight years he has come to regret. They include:

Announcing that he wanted Osama bin Laden "dead or alive" right after Sept. 11.
Declaring "bring 'em on" when discussing Iraqi insurgents in 2003.
Speaking in front of a "Mission Accomplished" banner on May 1, 2003, to declare major combat operations were complete.

Bush credits his wife for opening his mind to the importance of being careful with his words as President.

If you're not a fan of Bush, will you be more willing to forgive and forget once he leaves office, or must Americans hold a grudge if they don't want history to repeat itself? Is self-reflection from Bush enough, or should there be some other sort of accountability?

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Front Page: Taiwan Arrests Its Former Leader

CitizenSugar — Tue, 11 Nov 2008 08:00:06 -0800

The ex-president of Taiwan was detained by his country's police on charges of corruption and money laundering today. The defiant Chen Shui-bian raised his handcuffed hands above his head while shouting “Long live Taiwanese independence."— New York Times
In his White House meeting with Barack Obama, President Bush indicated that he would support another economic stimulus package, which includes aid to the auto industry, if the Democrats stopped opposing the Colombian free-trade agreement. — International Herald Tribune
Somalian pirates captured a Philippines chemical tanker, carrying 23 crew members, marking the 83rd hijack in Somalian waters this year. — Associated Press

After the Mars Lander ran out of batteries last week thanks to a dust storm, NASA announced that the mission has ended. — CNN
The surrogate grandmother in Ohio that gave birth to her triplet grandchildren last month, told Good Morning America that she is feeling fine, and was happy to serve as his daughter's surrogate at the age of 56. — Associated Press

Not the Greenest President: Bush's Environmental Sins

LibertySugar — Mon, 10 Nov 2008 15:30:00 -0800

Even some conservatives believe that the US President-elect should put the environmental crisis at the top of his presidential to-do list, because addressing that crisis has bipartisan approval. Yet despite an apparent citizen yearning for leadership on green issues, President Bush has neglected the topic during his eight years in the White House.

Salon put together a list of Bush's seven environmental deadly sins. The authors argue that Bush made a mockery of the US's environmental laws and values. Here are the seven pieces of supporting evidence for their indictment:

Blew hot air on global warming: Bush refused to agree to mandatory greenhouse gas emission reductions, thus erasing any credibility the US had to persuade China and India to cut their emissions and also leading to a rise in CO2 concentrations in the atmosphere.
Failed to regulate greenhouse gases at home: Bush vowed to veto any bill that would limit greenhouse gases. He also refused to regulate CO2 as a pollutant, even though the Supreme Court ruled it was a pollutant and said he could regulate it.
Failed to develop clean energy sources: While doing nothing to further renewable energy, Bush gave regulatory support to polluting industries like coal, oil, and gas.
Abandoned endangered species: The only additions to the endangered species list, such as the polar bear, came from private parties who sued the government. The administration also tried to build roads without considering harm to these species.

To see the rest,

The Bushes Show the Obamas Their New (White) House

LibertySugar — Mon, 10 Nov 2008 13:00:02 -0800

Barack and Michelle Obama met President George W. Bush and First Lady Laura Bush this afternoon, producing images of impending change. After a tour of the White House, the 43rd and 44th presidents separated from their good brides for official talks in the Oval Office. Without anyone else present, Bush and Obama were expected to discuss the economy, the war in Iraq, and national security. Considering Obama's transition chief said today that Obama will quickly begin to reverse Bush's policies starting on day one, this meeting has to be a bit awkward.

To see more pictures from the historic visit,

Obama's Pledge For Iraq Timetable Now Army Recruiting Tool?

LibertySugar — Sat, 08 Nov 2008 12:00:00 -0800

An Army career counselor appears to have used Barack Obama's election as tool to persuade former soldiers to rejoin. In an alleged email to an Iraq veteran (with the subject line "New Commander in Chief") the recruiter wrote: "A President Elect who says he'll get us out of Iraq. What are you waiting for?"

The appeal, made while Bush remains commander-in-chief, could be seen as a confession of disapproval for the Bush Administration's war policy.

Even if this isn't official US Army policy to use the exit of George W. Bush as an enlisting device, do you think a new president with a drastically different military policy could help boost recruitment?

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Still By His Side, Bush Supporters Say He Got a Bad Rap

CitizenSugar — Wed, 05 Nov 2008 03:05:00 -0800

Although President Bush, an eager and capable campaigner, was pushed into the shadows by fellow Republican candidates this year, his loyalists still have his back.

Insiders believe that the optimistic and steadfast President has been misunderstood. Perhaps more frustrating to supporters: the recent financial crisis has left the administration little chance to go out on a positive note or give attention to his legacy.

Even so, former Bush press secretary Ari Fleischer says Bush is confident that history will be kinder on him than his contemporaries. Do you think time will make the Bush Presidency look better or worse than it does now?

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Front Page: Less Likely US Will Have Authority To Stay in Iraq

CitizenSugar — Fri, 31 Oct 2008 07:30:00 -0700

The Bush administration's hopes for sealing a security deal with Iraq, to keep US troops in Iraq past December 31, are fading as Iraqis demand changes to a draft that some US officials consider unacceptable. If no deal is reached, the US must seek a new UN mandate, or leave. — Associated Press
Fierce fighting between the government and rebels in DR Congo is causing a humanitarian catastrophe. A tense ceasefire is holding in the eastern city of Goma, while the security situation still makes it difficult to deliver aid. — BBC News

The US Navy Blue Angels say the stunt-flying team will be down one jet the rest of its season after removing two members from duty for having an inappropriate relationship. The relationship was between a man and a woman. — CNN
The death toll from over a dozen blasts that hit India's northeastern state of Assam on Thursday rose to 77 today. Eleven more people succumbed to injuries overnight. — Guardian

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Somalia: Is the Chaos There a US Problem?

LibertySugar — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 11:00:00 -0700

An exaggerated fear of "Islamofascism" ignores a complex reality, causing the US to overreact and damage its own interests. So says columnist Nicholas D. Krsitof, who argues that the situation in Somalia is one of the least-known Bush administration failures. Kristof explains that in 2006, a movement made up of moderate and extremist Islamic groups was close to uniting the country. Fearful of an uncooperative government in Somalia, the US supported Ethiopia's invasion of its rival, crushing the best hope for peace.

Events this week bolster the argument that paranoia of Islamic extremists has led to disaster. Today in Somalia, five suicide bombs hit government security posts, UN offices, and an Ethiopian consular unit, killing dozens.

On Monday, the human rights chaos came to a head as well. A rape victim was stoned to death for adultery in an Islamist-controlled region. Buried up to her neck, thousands gathered at a soccer field to help execute her.

Perhaps extremists win when international powers stubbornly refuse to reach out to moderates. Would you rather see the US abandon a strictly ideological viewpoint, instead opening its eyes to nuanced reality, or does security require zero tolerance?

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Bush Says Now Is the Time to Give Aid to Poor Nations

LibertySugar — Wed, 22 Oct 2008 03:00:25 -0700

During the White House Summit on International Development, which focuses on increasing good governance, fighting disease, and enhancing economic growth in developing countries, President George W. Bush said prosperous nations must help less fortunate countries now more than ever.

Yesterday, Bush said:

During times of economic crisis, some may be tempted to turn inward — focusing on our problems here at home while ignoring our interests around the world. This would be a serious mistake. America is committed and must stay committed to international development for reasons that remain true regardless of the ebb and flow of the markets.

Bush took the time to take a trip-down his administration's memory lane, touting its aid accomplishments. In part thanks to the Millennium Challenge Account — which helps nations that embrace democracy and free markets build schools, treat those with AIDS, and feed their people — the US has given more foreign aid in the last eight years than during any other president's tenure of the last 50 years.

Do relatively rich countries have a duty to continue their commitments to the poor in other nations during tough times? Perhaps contributing to stability in friendly developing nations means that there's some self-interest in caring for the world's poor.

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Iraq to Try US Troops in Court, But Wants More Concessions

LibertySugar — Wed, 22 Oct 2008 00:00:01 -0700

After months of back-and-forth between Baghdad and the Bush Administration, the Iraqi government has demanded a reworking of the security agreement. A pact must be forged before the end of the year, when Bush leaves office, but more importantly when the UN mandate authorizing the US mission ends.

The draft, which has now been rejected, would have required the US out of Iraq by 2011, unless invited to stay by Iraq. The general idea of an agreement does not appear threatened, but influential Iraqi leaders have not accepted specific provisions. The draft permits the trial in Iraqi court of US troops, accused of serious crimes while off duty. But the nature of that concession is not satisfactory, such as the legal mechanism for trying US troops. Last weekend, Shiite demonstrators protested the proposal to give the US long-term authority to stay in Iraq.

As for getting the US on board, President Bush won't seek Congress's legal approval, but has briefed members, including John McCain and Barack Obama, in hopes of garnering political support.

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Front Page: Bush to Keep Guantanamo Open, Obama Leaving Campaign Trail, Saudi Arabia Charges 991 Al Qaeda Suspects

CitizenSugar — Tue, 21 Oct 2008 06:56:52 -0700

Bush to Keep Gitmo Open:
Though he'd previously stated a desire to close the prison at Guantanamo Bay, Bush has now decided not to do so, and did not consider proposals from the State Department and Pentagon to transfer the prisoners elsewhere. His current view appears to be that closing the prison would involve too many political and legal risks. It will remain open for the rest of his term.

Obama Leaving Campaign Trail:
Barack Obama is canceling almost all of his campaign events on Thursday and Friday to go visit his suddenly gravely ill grandmother in Hawaii. According to a spokesman, ''Sen. Obama's grandmother, Madelyn Dunham, has always been one of the most important people in his life, along with his mother and his grandfather." He's going so he can "spend some time with her.''
Saudi Arabia Charges 991 al Qaeda Suspects:
Saudi Arabia has charged 991 suspected al Qaeda militants with attacks that left 164 dead and that seem to range back to 2003, though specifics aren't yet clear. The country has been reluctant to charge militants in the past, fearing retribution from local sympathizers. A spokesman said, "In the past few years, the kingdom has been the target of an organised terrorist campaign linked to networks of strife and sedition overseas," before linking that campaign to al Qaeda.

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Would You Throw an End-of-Bush Bash?

CitizenSugar — Sat, 18 Oct 2008 07:00:43 -0700

There are political parties — and then there are political parties. This Georgie Is Outta Here party box is decidedly the latter. Complete with all of the goodies you'd need for a party — cups, balloons, Dick Cheney party hats, a Pin the Tail game of questionable taste, it's all there. The site has a pretty amusing video of the contents of the box in action, just so you can see exactly what you're getting. Who would throw this kind of party? I asked one of my decidedly not-Republican friends (I'm very tolerant) his thoughts on his hopes for pending political celebrations. "Well, first there is election night party — we're making shots for each swing state called. Something blue, fruity, and yummy for an Obama win and something strong and red for a McCain win, like bourbon with Tabasco." (My response: "ew.")So why a party for Bush leaving in January? "It's to celebrate a catharsis of turning the page on George W. Bush. Usually, any small reason to throw a party is good enough, but in this case, I think we are all so giddy and ecstatic to have Bush finally out of office, it will be a very, very big bash. After two very disappointing, almost soul-crushing lost elections, with the years in between as bad as we'd hope to ever see, the end should be a party with everyone in high spirits." What do you think? Would you have an end-of-Bush bash? Do you have big plans for election night?

Would You Throw an End-of-Bush Bash?

Heck yes! I can't think of a better reason to celebrate.

I might go to one, but I wouldn't throw one.

No. That's a ridiculous and offensive notion.

Other. I'll tell you in the comments.

Front Page: Bush Defends Economic Measures, China's Media Freedoms to End, US Pushes for Iraq Security Deal

CitizenSugar — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 07:00:41 -0700

Bush Defends Measures:
In a speech at the US Chamber of Commerce moments ago, President Bush defended the government's recent intervention in the financial crisis as measures of "last resort," saying that it will "take a while" for the credit system to thaw and that Americans can be confident it will. He said of the intervention, "Had the government not acted. . . We would have been forced to respond with even more drastic and costly measures later on."

China's Media Freedoms to End:
The rules that allowed greater freedom for foreign reporters during the Olympics are set to expire. There has been no word yet whether they will be extended, tossed, or traded for a new set of rules. The rules that allowed journalists to travel around China without applying for permission did not apply to Chinese journalists. Many hope the freedom will expand as a legacy of the Games.
US Pushes for Iraq Security Deal:
Secretary of Defense Robert Gates is seeking to extend the US mandate in Iraq which is set to expire later this year. The details of the planned draft would have US troops withdraw from Iraq by 2011. Official approval by Congress isn't required though approval from Iraq, is. The current mandate expires on Dec. 31.

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John McCain's Bid Over Before It Began?

LibertySugar — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 14:30:48 -0700

As Hillary Clinton and John McCain taught us in the New Hampshire primaries, regardless of polls, anything can happen on election day. But if John McCain loses, history may paint him as the Republican's sacrificial lamb destined to be defeated by the Democrats.Spectators figure that a perfect storm of wars, bad economic news, GOP mismanagement in Congress, and a pariah of a President (George W. Bush) make it impossible for McCain to keep the White House under Republican control.Perhaps debating the merits of McCain's sometimes imprudent campaign is pointless, if the White House was never in McCain's reach.
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John McCain's Bid Over Before It Began?

Yes! After the last eight years no Republican had a chance.

No! A winning campaign could show how McCain is better than Obama and Bush.

Nope! Regardless of the past and present, Obama is better for the future.

Other. I'll tell you in the comments.

The Decider Says He Doesn't Have to Follow Certain Laws

LibertySugar — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 11:00:39 -0700

After signing two bills into law this week, President Bush said that he could bypass numerous parts of the laws. In a signing statement Bush said a military authorization act and a measure giving inspectors general greater independence from the White House unlawfully constrained the president's constitutional powers.

So which parts will Bush ignore?

A section forbidding money from being used "to exercise United States control of the oil resources of Iraq."
A section requiring negotiations for an agreement by which Iraq would share some of the costs of the American military operation.
Two sections strengthening legal protections against political interference with internal watchdog officials at executive agencies.

The past 42 presidents have issued 600 signing statements combined while Bush himself has put out 1,100. Legal scholars assert that Bush's disobedience contradicts the rule of law, and the separations of power between Congress and the president. Do you think the next president will follow Bush's signing statements, or go even further by following his example of issuing many more signing statements?

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Briefing Book! Bush and Berlusconi are BFFs

LibertySugar — Tue, 14 Oct 2008 13:30:07 -0700

Italy: Friends forever? Italian PM Berlusconi falls over himself and his podium to praise President Bush. Watch video. — newsblog
Palin: Sarah Palin's reaction to the Legislature's Troopergate report is an embarrassment to Alaskans and the nation? Palin's hometown paper writes a strongly worded editorial. — Donklephant
Economy: Bankers seeking support from a floating church? London bankers attend short lunchtime services on St. Peter's barge. —SavvySugar
McCain: Whose fault? McCain says if he brings up Ayers at Debate, it's Obama's fault. — Talking Points Memo
Michelle Obama: Michelle's great-great-grandfather worked on a plantation now owned by Anderson Cooper's cousin? While Barack Obama does not have slave roots, Michelle would be first First Lady who does. — Jezebel

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What to Watch This Week: Political TV and Movies Abound

CitizenSugar — Mon, 13 Oct 2008 15:45:53 -0700

OK, OK I'm going to directly contradict every time your mother said, "read a book" or "go outside and play," because this week it's all about gripping TV. Here's what I mean:

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Monday — It's not light TV, but sounds compelling:

Section 60: Arlington National Cemetery — On HBO tonight at 9 p.m. this documentary tells the story of the section that serves as the burial ground of US military personnel killed in Iraq and Afghanistan. It's a look at the honor and cost of war from a human perspective.
The Last Lynching — The Discovery Channel tonight (at 10 p.m. so you could catch some of both programs) has Ted Koppel investigating America's recent history of racial violence, including a lynching that happened in Alabama as recently as 1981.

To see the rest of the week,

North Korea No Longer State Sponsor of Terror

LibertySugar — Mon, 13 Oct 2008 03:00:12 -0700

North Korea just got cut from the US list of state sponsors of terrorism. By presenting the isolated regime with the carrot of taking it off the bad-guy list, some in the Bush Administration hope Pyongyang will honor its promise to end its nuke program.

A few days ago North Korea banned inspectors, raising concerns that the deal, only a few months old, would collapse. But after he determined the country had cooperated with verification requirements of the agreement, Bush made the decision to take North Korea off the list.

Before Sarah Palin called Bush's move "wise," John McCain indicated that it was a mistake to take North Korea off the list, unless it clearly showed its commitment to stop pursuing nuclear weapons. If the US wants countries to start acting friendly, must the US treat them like friends first; or, is removal from the terror list something that must be earned unequivocally?

Source

In Final Months in Office, Bush Is Burdened but Still Confident

CitizenSugar — Sat, 11 Oct 2008 12:50:30 -0700

In Final Months in Office, Bush Is Burdened but Still Confident George W. Bush began his presidency with the worst terrorist attack on American soil and he is ending it with the worst financial crisis since the Great Depression. In between, he confronted a hurricane that nearly wiped New Orleans off the map as his administration showed ineptitude in its response. Now, as he spends his last months in office trying to avert a global economic collapse, Mr. Bush has been telling people privately that it's a good thing he's in charge.

Say What? NSA Workers Detail Eavesdropping on Americans

LibertySugar — Fri, 10 Oct 2008 12:15:51 -0700

The Bush Administration says it taps conversations of Americans only if they involved al Qaeda. But two ex-NSA interceptors say Bush's assertions are a lie, and they have come forward after feelings that their conduct was immoral and illegal. ABC News shared a look into the details of intercepted phone conversations between overseas Americans and their friends, colleagues, or family back home. Now, the Senate's Intelligence Committee has begun its own investigation.

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Among the saddest anecdotes shared by the NSA workers is the confession that US officers intercepted American soldiers having phone sex, and then proceeded to alert those around them so they could listen in. The details would then be the topic of conversation during smoke breaks. A US intelligence officer told ABC that all US government employees should expect their conversations to be monitored. For more on how the calls of humanitarian workers were also allegedly tapped,

Bush Signs Order to Give Up White House Keys Nov. 4

CitizenSugar — Thu, 09 Oct 2008 14:30:23 -0700

I don't think he'll have to make a reservation at the Pennsylvania Avenue Motel 6, but with one flourish of his quill this morning, George W. Bush signed the executive order to turn the keys to the White House over to whoever wins the election, on Nov. 4.

Though there's always talk of lame duck-edness, not much light is shed on the fact that the government can't wait until inauguration for the new team to start. With the order today, Bush established a transition council, a move that spokeswoman Perino says, "is especially important as our nation is fighting a war, dealing with a financial crisis, and working to protect ourselves from future terrorist attacks." Congress threw $8 million toward the project.

The candidates are both gearing up to take over the lease, too, as it were. Both campaigns' transition teams are getting full background checks for the first time as well as security clearances so that they, Perino says, “make sure we give the new team everything they need so they can continue to protect the country and address our economic challenges.”

To see how this move compares historically,

Lighten Up: Funny Moment From Bush's Presidency

LibertySugar — Tue, 07 Oct 2008 00:00:30 -0700

David Letterman's segment Great Moments in Presidential Speeches always makes me chuckle. I pulled one out of the archives to share with you all. I hope the next president is as entertaining . . . but maybe a little less scary.

Would You Take Back Your 2004 Vote?

LibertySugar — Sun, 05 Oct 2008 07:00:42 -0700

A scant 30 days stand between now and Election Day, but there's still time to change your mind about who to vote for. But I'm dying to know whether or not you would change the vote you cast four years ago. Since hindsight is 20-20, tell me, are you happy with the person you wanted to be president these last four years, or do you have voter's remorse? If your answer is "yes," I'd love to know what made you make that shift. Was it one specific event? What are you doing to make sure your 2008 vote is a keeper?Source

Would You Take Back Your 2004 Vote?

Yes, I would take back my vote for Bush.

Yes, I would take back my vote for Kerry.

No, I would not take back my vote for Bush.

No, I would not take back my vote for Kerry.

Yes, I would take back my vote for a third party.

No, I would not take back my vote for a third party.

Other. I'll tell you in the comments.

Front Page: Bush Implores Congress, Pirate Shoot-Out, More Than 140 Dead in Temple Stampede

CitizenSugar — Tue, 30 Sep 2008 06:55:38 -0700

Bush Implores Congress:
Speaking this morning at the White House, President Bush said that the economic damage will be "painful and lasting" if a bailout bill is not passed by Congress. The House is not scheduled to meet again until Thursday but lawmakers are looking for a new deal following the failure of the bill yesterday and the worst single-day drop of the stock market in 20 years.

Pirate Shoot-Out:
Somali pirates who seized a Ukrainian ship for a $20 million ransom last week have been involved in a shoot-out at sea among themselves. The pirates dispute the report saying, "This is propaganda being spread by some people who are not aware of our situation. We are united in punishing those who abuse Somali waters." A spokesman for the Seafarers' Association warned negotiators to pull back so the pirates can cool off.
More Than 140 Dead in Temple Stampede:
At least 147 have died and 55 injured at a stampede at an Indian temple as the faithful gathered for one of the year's most important religious festivals. With witnesses saying that the crowd was trying to pass through too narrow of a passage in the climb, another says, "People were falling over one another. Many ran but were trampled under the feet of thousands." A similar situation happened at a Hindu temple last month.

Source

Front Page: Bush to Meet Candidates, China Launches Space Mission, Civilians Flee Violence in Somalia

CitizenSugar — Thu, 25 Sep 2008 06:54:22 -0700

Bush to Meet Candidates:
After his address on the economy last night where President Bush said, "we're in the midst of a serious financial crisis," Bush is set to meet with both candidates plus leaders of Congress today. It's a session he hopes will, “speed our discussions toward a bipartisan bill.” It was Bush's first prime-time speech devoted to the economy that he says, is "in danger."

China Launches Space Mission:
China's third manned space mission blasted off today on a journey that will last 70 hours and will include the country's first space walk. China's president was on hand to see the astronauts off on their riskiest mission to date. China became the third nation ever to put a man in space in 2003.

Civilians Flee Violence in Somalia:
Thousands are fleeing the capital of Somalia following fighting between AU peace keepers and insurgents have left 50 dead since Monday. Aid workers say between 15,000 and 18,000 have fled the city and are now living in terrible conditions in makeshift camps. Aid will likely not reach the needy as conditions in the country are too dangerous for agencies to operate.

Source

Does Emergency Legislation Make You Nervous?

LibertySugar — Mon, 22 Sep 2008 15:45:00 -0700

President Bush's bailout plan, possibly the largest in US history, calls for unregulated and unprecedented powers for one man: Treasury Secretary Hank Paulson. Paulson could spend, without oversight, up to $700 billion to purchase toxic securities from financial firms.Congressional Democrats and Republicans have reservations, and both John McCain and Barack Obama want more oversight than Bush proposed. House Republicans called an emergency meeting this afternoon to finalize their alternative to Bush's plan. Their biggest concerns include more protections for taxpayers such as returning profits from the bailout program to the Treasury.Democratic Senator Patrick Leahy said: "We will do something this week — but if we learned anything from right after 9/11, it's that the biggest mistake is to pass anything they ask for just because it's an emergency." Democrats want more specific homeowner relief, Treasury accountability to Congress, and limits on corporate executive compensation. Despite these hesitations, the Bush Administration warns that markets could be devastated if Congress doesn't reach an agreement quickly. Source

Does Emergency Legislation Make You Nervous?

Yes! Not so fast! They're trying to scare Congress and Americans into submission.

No. Get moving! Congressional political posturing is not needed during this urgent time.

Either way Americans are screwed. Let's just get this over with.

Other. I'll tell you in the comments.

Bush Asking For $700 Billion Bailout

CitizenSugar — Sat, 20 Sep 2008 09:45:41 -0700

Bush Asking For $700 Billion Bailout Struggling to stave off financial catastrophe, the Bush administration on Friday laid out a radical bailout plan with a jawdropping price tag — a takeover of a half-trillion dollars or more in worthless mortgages and other bad debt held by tottering institutions. A grim-faced President Bush acknowledged risks to taxpayers in what would be the most sweeping government intervention to rescue failing financial institutions since the Great Depression. But he declared, "The risk of not acting would be far higher."

Lighten Up! Tony Blair on Inexplicable Friendship With Bush

LibertySugar — Fri, 19 Sep 2008 15:45:00 -0700

Last night on the Daily Show Jon Stewart quipped with Tony Blair, the man who ran Britain for 10 years. With a veil of comedy, Jon could ask the ex-prime minister provocative questions such as "How did (Bush) bring (Iraq) up?. . . Did he say: 'Hey man, you know who we should invade?'" The answers provided insight as to why Blair got on board for Iraq and how he assesses his legacy. Blair said that although he stands by Bush and the Iraq invasion, he never "took the view that people who disagree with it were stupid or misguided or had bad intentions."

Jon and Tony also chatted about the role of religion in politics, international relations, and their personal lives. The former leader discussed his recent conversion to Catholicism along with how UK politicians consider their religious lives distinct from their public persona, a privacy British voters are happy to oblige. To see the clip on religion and globalization,

President's Political Calendar Empty: GOP Smart to Hide Bush?

LibertySugar — Thu, 18 Sep 2008 09:00:36 -0700

President Bush, an accomplished and eager campaigner, is all dressed up with nowhere to go. Thanks to a basement-level approval rating, fellow-Republicans have spurned the man who has controlled the White House for them these last eight years. Even at his party's biggest party in Minnesota, Bush seemed sequestered at the White House. Bush's presence was limited to eight minutes via satellite, and he didn't even garner a mention by name in John McCain's RNC speech. The President's political calendar is empty, while the likes of Mitt Romney have events scheduled for every week until the election. And unlike in 2000, when other Democrats did not follow Al Gore's lead of rejecting Bill Clinton, Republicans running for offices across the board want to appear independent of Bush. Even so, Bush is doing his part — he's raised $238 million for the GOP's 2008 efforts at closed-door fundraisers. Are Republicans smart to keep Bush in the shadows?Source

President's Political Calendar Empty: GOP Smart to Hide Bush?

Yes! George W. Bush isn't really what Republicans and McCain are about.

Of course. They got his advisors, so there's no need to take on the unpopular Bush.

No. Bush won two close elections. This man can campaign . . . and win.

Nope! Bush is popular with Republicans and it could divide the base.

Doesn't matter. Voters will realize that McCain has the same failed policies as Bush.

Other. I'll tell you in the comments.