What They're Saying

Liberal Buzz reader Suzanne writes in with her thoughts on my piece today examining New Jersey Senator Jon Corzine’s financial conflicts of interest:

The rest of the intellectual world seems to know that ethically challenged people belong to both parties. But you can't investigate one group of them unless you investigate all.


So, personally, I say.......if Tom DeLay can stand the heat, so can Jon Corzine. In fact, the hotter the better! I am sick of republican hypocrisy to the max.
Come up with an independent panel of citizens from around the country, AVERAGE citizens without wealth, fame, or fortune....to pass judgement on these people and get it out of the hands of pundits with a cause. Right now, I know that all this is is a political setup for distraction from the party in rule. Period. And we all know who is in the White House right now, God help us.

[ 08/12/2005 02:11 PM ]

To Do List: Find Message, Stop Whining, Win Elections

In addition acknowledging that his party lacks a message, DNC Chair Howard Dean made it clear yesterday to New Hampshire Democrats that simply opposing Republicans has not been a successful strategy for the party:

The burden of proof is on us. Our job is not just to say what we don't like about the president. Our job is to make sure that when we get in we earn the right to stay.

Of course, as Dean can attest to from his failed 2004 presidential bid, that whole “when we get in” part is somewhat complicated.

[ 08/12/2005 12:37 PM ]

Second Serving

Buzz reader Mike writes in on Democrats trying to spin Paul Hackett’s Ohio 2nd district special election loss as a victory:

The OH2 stuff brings to mind an old Cold War sports joke. There is a Russian/American track meet. In the 100-meter dash the American wins. Pravda headline: "Russian sprinter finishes 2nd. American is next to last."

[ 08/12/2005 12:14 PM ]

Give Her an Inch...

Rasmussen Reports finds public perceptions of Hillary Clinton are “inching to the right.” In their latest survey, Rasmussen finds that 43 percent of respondents view Clinton as politically liberal:

This is the first time all year that her liberal rating has fallen below 45% in consecutive surveys … In January, 51% of Americans viewed New York's junior Senator as politically liberal.


As perceptions of Hillary inch to the right, the Senator's electoral prospects have improved a bit. The latest edition of the Hillary Meter finds that 32% of Americans say they will definitely vote for Mrs. Clinton if she runs in 2008. Thirty-six (36%) will definitely vote against her. The four percentage point gap in those numbers is the smallest ever measured (the biggest gap--15 percentage points--was found in late May).

[ 08/12/2005 12:11 PM ]

Bill's Non-News Hillary News

Bill Clinton told CNN yesterday that Hillary Clinton hasn’t decided yet if she’ll make a presidential run in 2008. He said they share a rule when it comes to ambition:

Don't look past the next election or you might not get past the next election … She's not a candidate, and I don't know that she will be … There will be lots of time to think about that down the road.

Clinton also took issue with Jeanine Pirro’s assertion that Hillary has used New York as a launching pad for the White House:

Jeanine Pirro is wrong. Hillary has not used any doormat and, by the way, she doesn't even have a Republican opponent yet. I don't know who the Republicans are going to nominate.

[ 08/12/2005 11:51 AM ]

Just Imagine If They'd Won

Stuart Rothenberg has a nice editorial in today’s Roll Call. Rothenberg writes that even though Democrats lost the special election in Ohio’s 2nd district, they still appear to be convinced otherwise. He comes a little late to the game, but Rothenberg’s main point still rings true:

My dictionary defines “hubris” as “overweening pride or self-confidence” and “arrogance.” Usually, those accused of hubris have been successful — so successful that they inflate their own importance and ability. But some Democratic activists, notably too many armchair political strategists on the Internet, are acting like winners when they haven’t won much of anything.

Or, as I like to put it, finishing second in a two-man race doesn’t win you a silver medal.

[ 08/12/2005 11:06 AM ]

His Very Own Voter Registration Program

The Sioux City Journal reports Iowa Governor Tom Vilsack is touting four “New Iowan Centers” aimed at helping immigrants find jobs in the state and assimilate into their communities.

Vilsack said, "It's another way of encouraging those populations to be part of the Iowa experience, and it helps grow the economy.”

[ 08/12/2005 10:46 AM ]

Romney, McCain Head to Michigan

The Boston Globe reports Mitt Romney and John McCain will travel to Michigan next month to attend the Mackinac Republican Leadership Conference. The Conference will feature more than 1,000 elected officials, campaign donors, conservative activists and candidates for local offices in Michigan.

It will be Romney’s third visit to Michigan since March.

[ 08/12/2005 10:36 AM ]

Tomfoolery

The New York Times and just about every other major mainstream media outlet are reporting today that lobbyist Jack Abramoff has been indicted on fraud charges yesterday. And even though the charges are unrelated to Abramoff’s ties to Tom DeLay, most outlets are playing it up:

Jack Abramoff, the once-powerful Republican lobbyist involved in ethics allegations facing Representative Tom DeLay, was indicted in Florida on Thursday on unrelated fraud charges involving his purchase of a fleet of gambling boats from a businessman who was slain amid bitter wrangling over the sale.

For a story “unrelated” to Tom DeLay, the Times still finds time in its short write-up to make six references to DeLay.

[ 08/12/2005 09:38 AM ]

State of Corruption

I have a new article posted today on the NRO main site. It looks at Democrat Senator Jon Corzine’s recent financial conflicts of interests, how they might affect his gubernatorial campaign and the state of New Jersey politics in general. Please give it a read when you have a chance.

[ 08/12/2005 09:27 AM ]

Ring Bearer

Tucker Martin of the Jerry Kilgore gubernatorial campaign in Virginia writes in to The Buzz today to give readers an update on the nation’s other gubernatorial race this year. It turns out Democrat Tim Kaine has been traveling the state actually promoting his and Mark Warner’s $1.4 billion tax increase. But he’s choosing his words carefully in this promotion pitch. As Tucker explains:

Last year the largest tax increase in Virginia history was passed into law. Leading the charge for the $1.4 billion increase was our Democrat opponent, Mr. Tim Kaine, who actually called for a much larger tax increase. Now, Mr. Kaine travels the state touting the tax increase, but the ever-eloquent Mr. Kaine can’t say tax increase, candor could prove devastating. So instead he touts “budget reform” and “investment.” Mr. Kilgore, a strong opponent of this tax increase, points out everywhere that Kaine is speaking in code words to cover up the truth of the matter. In order to further illustrate this point we developed this nifty little handout that Kilgore volunteers distribute now at every Kaine event.

The handout is a “Tim Kaine Decoder Ring,” which includes information on Kaine’s double-speak and tax-hiking record.

UPDATE: The Kilgore camp passes along this image that accompanies their decoder ring literature.

[ 08/11/2005 01:11 PM ]

Wes All Over Wis

Wispolitics.com reports Wesley Clark will attend a lunchtime fundraiser on August 30th for the Democratic Party of Wisconsin. After the fundraiser Clark will “talk veterans issues with the press.” Finally, Clark will fly to La Crosse for an evening fundraiser in support of House Democrat Ron Kind.

[ 08/11/2005 12:48 PM ]

Intellectual Diversity

Buzz reader KJ writes in on the pros and cons of a Newt Gingrich presidential run in 2008:

I suspect he'd be a disaster in the White House, but I hope he runs. If he can keep his mercurial ego on a short leash, he can frame issues as well as anyone in D.C.

I agree. Tom Tancredo is getting a lot of press and immigration reform is the only major issue he is campaigning on. Gingrich has a strong platform of ideas and a wealth of experience in government. He may not be the candidate of choice for many Republican primary voters, but he certainly would be a healthy addition to the debate.

[ 08/11/2005 11:19 AM ]

Army Surpasses Recruitment Goals, but Reserves/Guard Still Trail

The Associated Press reports that for the second straight month the Army surpassed its recruiting goals.

However, the Army National Guard and the U.S. both fell below their recruitment targets:

Officials say the shortfalls in recruiting won't constrain Army operations in the near future, but it does pose long-term problems, particularly if the U.S. military must maintain the current force of 138,000 U.S. troops in Iraq for several more years.

[ 08/11/2005 10:53 AM ]

Bloomberg Doesn't Have Much Faith in Romney

Bloomberg News takes a look at how Mitt Romney’s Mormonism could play in the 2008 presidential campaign:

The question of his Mormonism may reveal something about the Republican Party and the Christian activists who have been key to recent Republican electoral victories. Romney's religion ``might hurt him slightly, but I don't think it would be a major negative,'' said Don Wildmon, an ordained Methodist minister who is chairman of the American Family Association in Tupelo, Mississippi.

Bloomberg cites Romney’s faith as a “wild card” and combines its interviews with speculation that religious conservatives would reject Romney as a “heretic.” The only person who gives challenge to this assertion in the Bloomberg piece is Romney himself, who says:

The Republican Party embraces principles of religion. The Republican Party also embraces the kinds of values that are inherent in my religious tradition as well as the many others that populate our country.

Bloomberg also cites a quote from Ted Kennedy that I recently reported on The Buzz where Kennedy says Romney’s religion would not be a negative factor should he run for president.

[ 08/11/2005 10:40 AM ]

Death and Taxes - A Losing Combo

Bill Frist has a new op-ed in the Wall Street Journal today. The subject is not stem cells, but the death tax, of which Frist writes:

The death tax is the cruelest, most unfair tax our government imposes. It is a destructive policy. A typical taxed family spends between $30,000 and $150,000 just planning for the death tax. That's money that could be spent in far more productive ways -- like investing in the businesses these families are trying to protect.


It's also an immoral tax. No policy should forbid hardworking Americans from passing on their assets to a spouse or a child. Our laws should respect private property and the hard work it takes to acquire and accumulate it over the course of a life. Simply put, death should not be a taxable event

[ 08/11/2005 10:25 AM ]

He Moves, He Shakes

The Des Moines Register reports former House Speaker Newt Gingrich will make a return visit to Iowa this year that has, “more the look of an early presidential campaign than the book tour that brought him here in May, some Iowa Republicans say.”

In addition to granting several local media interviews, Gingrich has planned meetings with “key” GOP leaders and activists. He’ll also hold a health care forum and headline a fundraiser for House candidate Jeff Lamberti.

[ 08/11/2005 09:50 AM ]

Bottled Message

Former House Minority Leader and 2004 presidential candidate Dick Gephardt appeared on CNN’s “Lou Dobbs Tonight” last night. Dobbs asked Gephardt about DNC Chair Howard Dean’s assertion that Democrats “need a message.” Dobbs asked:

We have the head of the Democratic National Committee, Howard Dean, saying the Democratic Party needs a message. We just came out of a presidential election. Why would the leadership, and not just Howard Dean, be searching for a message for an entire political party in this country?

Gephardt answered:

I don’t know. I hope that they find that message soon.

[ 08/11/2005 09:38 AM ]

McCain Also Leads in New MA Poll

Another ARG poll shows John McCain
leading the Republican 2008 primary in Massachusetts. McCain brings in 46 percent of the vote, more than doubling the support of Mitt Romney, who gets 22 percent supports.

Newt Gingrich and Bill Frist follow with less than five percent each, with 26 percent undecided.

[ 08/11/2005 09:33 AM ]

McCain Has Big Lead in NH Poll

The Manchester Union-Leader reports:

Two-and-a-half years before the 2008 first-in-the-nation Presidential primary, we have the very first poll numbers. They show 2000 GOP primary victor John McCain still the main man.

A new American Research Group [ARG] poll shows McCain leading the New Hampshire primary with 39 percent of the vote.

Newt Gingrich placed a distant but surprising second, with 14 percent. Mitt Romney, Bill Frist, George Allen and Tom Tancredo all scored in single digits in descending order. A full 32 percent of voters remain undecided.

Sam Brownback, Chuck Hagel and Mike Huckabee were included in the poll, but “registered no support.”

ARG polled 600 “likely primary voters,” including 433 registered Republicans and 167 registered independents.

In just the GOP sampling, McCain also led, this time with 37 percent. Gingrich scored higher, with 19 percent support. McCain took a full 45 percent of independents, with no one else registering above single digits.

You can read the full poll results here.

[ 08/11/2005 09:31 AM ]

Making the Cell

In an email to supporters from his VolPAC, Senate Majority Leader Bill Frist writes:

I believe -- in my heart -- that embryonic stem cells hold UNIQUE potential to heal, and that they can be derived ethically.

[ 08/11/2005 09:11 AM ]

Different Views but Same Goal

Quite a few Buzz readers wrote in yesterday on the question of Condoleezza Rice and abortion. Nearly all of you who wrote in expressed your opinion that even if Rice has described herself as “mildly pro-choice” her actual views on abortion are consistent with those in the pro-life movement. As reader Ken wrote:

I was struck by how similar this position is to the one we wish the Justices of the Supreme Court held; that is, it is not a federal issue, but rather should be left to the states. Now I realize that she is not saying abortion should be banned, but there is at least some hope that she would not oppose the overturning of Roe v. Wade, since that would simply put the matter back in the hands of state legislatures.

Buzz reader Kristin concurred:

I read the blurb about Condi and abortion...it could be said of her view, that Roe was wrongly decided and consider "without excessive government interference" letting the states VOTE on it... to me there is no controversy here, her statements can be easily and legitimately explained

Finally, Buzz reader Mike agrees and added:

On the international scene, there is no one more qualified than Condi to deal with world leaders and world issues. I won't bother to tic them off for you, it's like singing to the choir. On domestic issues, if there was ever anyone - or ever will be anyone - who can shut down people like Belafonte, Sharpton and Jackson, it's Condi. She has the potential to unite people behind a vision of "rugged individualism" vs. government nannyism like no one I've seen. She will, to paraphrase Teddy Roosevelt, be carrying a HUGE stick.

[ 08/11/2005 09:05 AM ]

Life of the Party

Republican Ed Cox’s New York Senate exploratory committee forwarded a statement to The Buzz from Cox on Jeanine Pirro’s stance on partial birth abortion:

“Partial-birth abortion is a serious moral issue. One’s position should be guided on a strong personal conviction – not political opportunism. Ed Cox has always favored a ban on this abhorrent procedure.



On Monday, Ms. Pirro claimed to be ‘blue.’ On Tuesday, she claimed to be ‘red.’ Republicans and Conservatives should look at this flip-flop and ask “What is she going to be tomorrow?


That’s not the kind of candidate we need for the Republican or Conservative parties or the people of New York.”

[ 08/11/2005 09:01 AM ]

Now, That's Rich

Sherry Sylvester, campaign and communications director for Doug Forrester’s campaign, provided some more insight to The Buzz this afternoon on New Jersey Senator Jon Corzine’s ethically questionable past and present financial dealings:

“There is no question there’s a conflict. A half-million dollar loan to the state’s largest labor union is a conflict. Imagine the outrage if Tom DeLay gave half a million dollars to the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. What’s more, Corzine did not disclose his loans on his Senate reports. He’s the richest man in the U.S. Senate in his own right, but won’t even reveal his financial partnerships that he promised to dissolve when taking office. All of New Jersey’s big print outlets agree Corzine’s conflicts are serious.”

[ 08/10/2005 04:11 PM ]

Red Dawn

Is Mike Huckabee conservative enough to merit a red label from The Buzz? More than one reader has written in to suggest that Huckabee’s support for cigarette and income tax hikes should push him into the purple category. However, Huckabee is quite strong on conservative social issues.

So, I called up Free Enterprise Fund Vice President Peter Roff to get his take:

“What Churchill said about democracy can be said about most Republican governors. He’s the worst one we’ve got, except for all the rest. Every chief executive is going to have a mixed bag. Even Ronald Reagan, who is the gold standard for Republican presidential candidates, had things he did while governor of California that he later regretted.”


“If there was a perfect candidate, we wouldn’t be having this discussion because we’d all be in the guy’s corner. I think it’s fair to be subjective when looking at governors to see what they accomplished based on what they had to work with.”

Roff points to former Massachusetts Governor Bill Weld, who while facing nearly insurmountable opposition from the state Democratic party was still able to rack up several legislative accomplishments:

“Too many people are focused on ruling people out. I don’t think that’s healthy. Maybe after the 2006 elections we can start weeding out the weaker candidates. But for now, we should let individuals like Mike Huckabee talk to us about what they have accomplished.”

[ 08/10/2005 02:27 PM ]

Three for Three

The South Carolina Democratic Party announced that Evan Bayh will be the “special guest speaker at the Party’s annual reception honoring present and past” members of South Carolina’s federal delegation. The reception is scheduled for August, 31st. (Hat tip to Hotline).

South Carolina Democrat Chair Joe Erwin said of Bayh:

He's one of the Democratic Party's rising stars and has a very exciting future ahead. We are thrilled to welcome him to South Carolina and look forward to hearing his vision for America.

The visit will mark 2005 stops by Bayh in the first three primary contests of Iowa, New Hampshire and South Carolina.

[ 08/10/2005 01:10 PM ]

The Doctor Gets a Second Opinion

Buzz reader David writes in to argue why Condoleezza Rice would be even more popular if she announced a White House 2008 campaign:

I actually think Condi moves higher, not lower, in the standings if she became a real candidate. Party faithful, myself included, would be more likely to answer Condi in a poll if we knew she was running.


Condi is our dream candidate. She's got it all, and she would likely win handily in the general election. The issue that comes up at the dinner table: "I just don't think she's going to run".


Once she declares her candidacy, she will immediately become the front runner. And with the President behind her, no one should come close, and it will be jockeying for a VP spot.

Still, many Rice supporters continue to look past the abortion question. Dr. Rice has voiced her opposition to Roe v. Wade, said she is opposed to partial-birth abortions and supports parental notification. However, other Buzz readers like Sharon point to this Washington Times interview from earlier this year where Rice described herself as “mildly pro-choice”:

Miss Rice said abortion should be "as rare a circumstance as possible," although without excessive government intervention. "We should not have the federal government in a position where it is forcing its views on one side or the other.

[ 08/10/2005 12:53 PM ]

He's Not Running Yet, More Like a Brisk Jog

Rudy Giuliani appeared on CNN’s new “Situation Room” yesterday and was asked about his 2008 presidential ambitions. When asked if he’s running, Giuliani said:

Not right now, I'm not, no … Well, I'm not counting it out. That would make no sense. But it's way too early to really assess something like that or even to have a poll make much of a difference at point …


We start these election campaigns way too early. I'm not going to really even focus on it for another year. When you get closer in time to the event, you see what the issues are then. You see how valuable it would be if you run, and you make a decision. Now it's way, way too early.

Wolf Blitzer then asked Giuliani:

As a political expert that you are, someone who supports abortion rights, supports gay rights, supports affirmative action can win some of these Republican primaries in some of these more conservative states?

To which Giuliani answered:

I have no idea. I don't think you know that until you have a candidate and you actually go out and run and see what the party is looking for. It depends on what the overriding issues are in 2007 and 2008. That's why you can't make a decision. There's no way to know that at this point.

[ 08/10/2005 12:36 PM ]

Bartlett Confirms: It's a War

White House counselor to the president Dan Bartlett appeared on MSNBC’s “Hardball” last night where he was asked about progress in Iraq. Bartlett said:

What President Bush will continue to argue, and what the commanders on the ground understand, is that this war is necessary, that this war is making our world safer by making Iraq free and whole and secure. It's going to be a crucial step in winning the overall war on terror. We have some tough fighting. We're also seeing some great progress being made on the ground at the same time there's violence. The political process is moving forward. The constitution is being written—it's going to be ratified by mid-August. These are important critical steps not only for the future of the Iraqi people but in defeating the insurgency as well. So, President Bush has confidence in the strategy that's in place in Iraq. He understands that the consequences are enormous. If we don't win in Iraq, if we don't defeat terrorists there, we're only going to make America and our friends around the world more vulnerable to terrorist attacks.

[ 08/10/2005 12:02 PM ]

And He's The "Ethical" One

The RNC’s Danny Diaz tells me there are many unanswered ethical questions surrounding Jon Corzine:

“Monday will be the one-year anniversary of Jim McGreevey’s announced resignation from office. Corzine is a guy a lot of Democrats tried to look to as their golden boy. But there are still questions about his $470,000 gift to ex-girlfriend Carla Katz, his financial connections to the largest union in the state and his hedge fund investment.”

Corzine has invested $7 million in a hedge fund with Icahn Partners LP, a state casino operator. He’s said he would divest his interests if elected governor.

[ 08/10/2005 11:50 AM ]

Corzine Leads, but Taxes are #1 Issue for NJ Voters

A new Quinnipiac University poll finds Democrat Senator Jon Corzine leading Republican Doug Forrester in the race for New Jersey Governor, 50 to 40 percent.

However, the poll finds Corzine’s lead amongst independents to only be at 43 to 42 percent. Voters selected property taxes as their largest issue, with the two candidates tied on who could handle it best.

[ 08/10/2005 11:26 AM ]

Good From Far, Far From Good?

Buzz reader Bret takes issue with conservatives who are bullish on a Mitt Romney or Condoleezza Rice campaign:

Regardless of when his political shift came (02, 04, prospective 06, or prospective 08), Romney is himself reminiscent of the recent Democratic presidential wannabes -- meaning, his shiftiness would lead to a Gore-y loss.


And, those who would relish a Condi Rice presidency -- in other words, those who cherish the idea of a brilliant and wise individual running the country -- miss the fact that she's polling so highly BECAUSE she's not running. Non-candidates are fan favorites until they step in the ring. Then they become Jack Kemp.

There’s not doubt the mainstream media will attack any socially conservative candidate that’s on the ballot in 2008. But I have to agree with Bret that Romney’s maneuvering will present a challenge for him should he advance through the GOP primaries.

And when it comes to Rice, there’s little doubt her poll numbers would come down to earth a bit should she become an active political candidate. Still, she has so many assets it’s hard to imagine her not maintaining reasonably high approval numbers, even throughout a rough campaign.

[ 08/10/2005 11:20 AM ]

Dean: Nothing Radical

The Associated Press reports DNC Chair Howard Dean says there will be “some changes in the 2008 presidential primary calendar, but nothing radical.”

Dean sought to ease the anxiety of Democrats in New Hampshire and Iowa who do not want to lose their status as the first-in-the-nation primary states. Dean is awaiting the results of a Democratic commission that is examining if the states “lack the diversity” to host the party’s first two primary voting events.

[ 08/10/2005 10:47 AM ]

Host With the Most

Tampa is making a bid to host the 2008 Republican National Convention.

[ 08/10/2005 10:35 AM ]

Judge Dread

The Boston Globe reports Mitt Romney is facing “intense political turbulence” this week over his latest set of state judicial nominees. His vetting system was heralded as a “national model” when introduced two years ago, but is now facing some hurdles after the backgrounds of some nominees have come into question.

[ 08/10/2005 10:31 AM ]

When Being "Pro-Choice" Is Not Enough

Liberals are up in arms over the revelation that New York Senate candidate Jeanine Pirro is opposed to partial birth abortions, except in cases where the mother’s life is at risk. Naral and other groups claim Pirro signed a questionnaire in 1997 saying she supported partial birth abortions. Pirro said the Naral questionnaire was misleading:

Ms. Pirro said yesterday that she told Naral in 2001 that she would support the procedure to protect a woman's life; the Naral questionnaire asks about "life or health."


"I believed there was a situation where the life of the mother is primary, and I didn't want to restrict that," Ms. Pirro said. "It's the life exception that I was in favor of."

[ 08/10/2005 10:03 AM ]

We Know What's Best For You

Governor Jeb Bush stood up to the NCAA yesterday and their attempts to censor Florida State University and other institutions from brandishing their “hostile and abusive” mascots. Bush said:

How politically correct can we get? To me, the folks that make these decisions need to get out more often. I think they insult those people by telling them, ‘No. No. You're not smart enough to understand this.' You should be feeling really horrible about it.' It's ridiculous.

The new NCAA policies would prevent schools that do not meet their mascot requirement from hosting NCAA championship events. And starting in 2008, collegiate athletes and cheerleaders would be banned from displaying the mascots at all.

The great irony in all this: The Seminole Indian Tribe of Florida isn’t on the NCAA’s side. In fact, the tribe “supports the traditions of FSU.”

[ 08/10/2005 09:44 AM ]

So, It Really Does Take a Family

A new survey conducted by the left-leaning Democracy Corps finds that despite voter unhappiness with Republicans over current events in Iraq, the economy and health care issues, Democrats are left without the prospect of electoral. That’s because when social issues come into play, even somewhat dissatisfied voters find more common ground with the GOP:

As powerful as the concern over these issues is, the introduction of cultural themes -- specifically gay marriage, abortion, the importance of the traditional family unit and the role of religion in public life -- quickly renders them almost irrelevant in terms of electoral politics at the national level.

[ 08/10/2005 09:15 AM ]

Seeing Red

I spent a good party of yesterday combing through Tim Pawlenty’s record in Minnesota state politics. Other than the cigarette tax, his record has been pretty solidly conservative both as governor and as a member of the Minnesota state House. Earlier in his career as a state legislator he voted on a measure supporting expanded gay rights but later said that was a “mistake.”

But there still is the issue of Pawlenty’s cigarette tax. An overwhelming majority of Buzz readers wrote in to say that while they are vehemently anti-tax, it’s hard to get up in arms about a cigarette tax, particularly one imposed at the state level. I personally still think the tax is a bad idea. It’s too big, more than a dollar per pack, and will undoubtedly have a negative impact on Minnesota’s small businesses. However, the sentiment from Buzz readers was strong enough that Pawlenty is officially back in the red column.

[ 08/10/2005 08:50 AM ]

Final Four not so Fantastic?

Yesterday saw a great response from Buzz readers on who they think will be the final GOP contenders for the presidential nomination in 2008. Most notable was the very strong support for Condoleezza Rice. Many of you think John McCain will be one of the final two contenders, but would only support him if he were facing Hillary Clinton. And then there were the supporters of George Allen, who made a strong pitch for his inclusion on the list.

Buzz reader Philip writes in with his own 2008 GOP final four, which includes Allen:

I disagree w/ Final Four contenders as posted. Allen is definitely leading the pack w/ the party faithful right now.


I believe the final four will be: Giuliani (the left-wing candidate), Allen (party establishment), McCain (moderate/pro-defense), and Huckabee (the Gary Bauer vote). It will come down to Allen and McCain. I think Allen will pull it out; he's a good politician.

[ 08/10/2005 08:38 AM ]

Waiting for Condi

Americans For Rice points me toward an in-depth profile of Condoleezza Rice in the new issue of AARP magazine. The AARP lead states, “Condoleezza Rice is an intriguing mix of boots, brains, and bravado. Here’s the true story of how a little black girl from Birmingham rose to become the most powerful woman in the world.”

From the piece:

So will Condoleezza Rice run for president in 2008? … Many friends and family dismiss the notion. "I don't think she'll run for office," says Aunt G. "Teaching is her first love." …


All the same, the President has been quietly pushing her into the limelight and, some believe, encouraging a run. And at least one former Republican National Committee chair thinks a Rice candidacy could prove a GOP masterstroke. "She tips the tables," he says, noting that if by 2008 Bush's gambit in Iraq looks like a success and national security is at the epicenter of the presidential debate, Rice could jump in late and prove the Republicans' white knightess. "Sometimes in politics," he says, "there are genuine cases of spontaneous combustion."

[ 08/09/2005 04:58 PM ]

Final Four?

Buzz reader Douglas says the GOP fight has four serious contenders. Count Rudy Giuliani, John McCain and Condoleezza Rice. But don’t forget that other guy we keep hearing about:

Romney is a target for the Boston Globe, so he, perversely, has the opportunity to show real leadership and have Lots of Folks see him do it. As a battleground for issues like same-sex marriage, he's also positioned to take strident or nuanced positions and have his strength/weakness analyzed. Most of the other gubernatorial candidates will not have such visibility. The visibility of the Senators, given their relative lack of accomplishment given control of the presidency AND both houses of congress, doesn't make me want to run out and vote for them either.


I think if we toss Romney into the Final Four, you may be right.

I’ll admit to being skeptical of Romney’s seeming pivots on social issues the last several months. But there does seem to be a newfound consistency and conviction to his moves. Most critics say he is switching beliefs to be more palpable to a socially conservative 2008 audience. But perhaps his real “shift” came in 2002 when he ran for governor of Massachusetts.

I’m not denying that Romney’s recent pivot may be to strategically place himself in a better position for 2008. But it’s also entirely possible, and increasingly likely, that these shifts more accurately reflect his true personal beliefs. After all, the “new” Romney seems pretty comfortable in his skin, as opposed to the “moderate” face Hillary Clinton has been showing off.

[ 08/09/2005 02:18 PM ]

Three's Company

Buzz reader David writes in on the Gallup poll showing Rudy Giuliani, John McCain and Condoleezza Rice leading the 2008 GOP presidential field:

It's worth noting that, in fall of 1997, there were plenty of Election 2000 polls showing George W. Bush either leading the GOP pack or in a close race for first with Colin Powell and Jack Kemp.


As such, as we near the fall of 2005, it is interesting and perhaps prescient that Rudy, McCain, and Condi are the only Republicans garnering double-digits for Decision 2008. Do we have our final three?

What do you think Buzz readers? I’ve heard support from all corners for just about every candidate. But if the nomination votes were cast today, what would the result be? Well, obviously we’d have a lot of surprised voters and candidates. But in all seriousness, who do you think would and will win?

[ 08/09/2005 01:52 PM ]

The Genuine Draft

Just spoke with Americans for Rice co-chair Crystal Dueker about the new Gallup poll showing Condoleezza Rice as the third most-popular potential GOP candidate for 2008. I asked Dueker what she thinks of Rice’s strong showing in the poll:

Let us consider that Rudy is at the top (no one knows if he is going to run) and McCain at second place. So if Condi is seen by the people of the United States as the third choice, (a major success for her without seeking the office by flying to New Hampshire or Iowa); then the intelligent people see her as a qualified and well-respected leader worthy of being placed on a ballot in 2008. Compare her to all the other Republican names with less than 10% or even 5%, (Senators Frist, Hagel, Brownback, or Governors Romney, Owens, Huckabee, and Barbour).

I concur with Dueker’s observation. The fact that Rice polls so highly while remaining in the background of those openly seeking the nomination speaks volumes about Rice’s character and respect in the eyes of voters. And we have to assume most of the moderate candidates will fall by the wayside as the election marches forward. Don’t think this poll is going unnoticed by the folks over at the State Department and the White House.

[ 08/09/2005 01:44 PM ]

Maybe He Should Start Selling Clark Bars

The Arkansas News reports about 50 Wesley Clark supporters are paying $1,000 each to replenish Clark’s WesPAC. A Clark spokesman said the once and likely future presidential candidate expects to hold a “handful” of fundraisers before the end of this year.

[ 08/09/2005 12:48 PM ]

It All Adds Up

The Wall Street Journal’s Brendan Miniter writes the door to another Bush presidency may be opening:

As the clock advances towards 2008, things are starting to fall into place to give Jeb Bush the momentum he needs to win the White House. And this isn't contingent on Hillary Clinton emerging as the Democrats' nominee--though if she does, the path will be all the smoother for another Bush …


With a strong string of electoral victories, why would Republicans now turn their backs on the Bushes? It certainly wouldn't be because of Jeb's record in Florida. He's been steadily amassing an antitax, bedrock conservative record over the past seven years. There's not much there that the party's base is going to hate …


Perhaps the most compelling reason why Jeb Bush shouldn't be written off just yet came Friday with the Labor Department's latest jobs numbers. With some 200,000 net new jobs created in July and some 3.5 million new jobs over the past two years, it's getting harder to deny we are now in the midst of a Bush boom … If we get three more years of solid economic expansion, voters may decide that keeping a Bush in the White House is good for their wallets. After all, the Bush tax cuts are now set to expire in the middle of the next president's first term.

[ 08/09/2005 12:41 PM ]

Game On

Jeb Bush and President Bush are the surprise stars of the extremely popular new Madden 2006 videogame. A hidden feature in the game allows “Jeb Bush” a wide receiver for the Miami Dolphins to go head-to-head against “George Bush” a strong safety for the Dallas Cowboys.

Jeb made the surprising discovery during a press conference for the game, where he was publishing Madden producer Electronic Arts, a Florida based company:

In the game, Jeb Bush breaks into the clear, catches the pass, and finds himself with only one man to beat -- the president.


"The wide receiver on the Dolphins scores as he tramples over the strong safety for the Cowboys," the governor said laughing. "It's great. I'm sure my brother will like it."

[ 08/09/2005 12:33 PM ]

Putting Some Hustle Behind This Nussle

Tom Vilsack says Iowa has the fastest growing economy in the nation. And he used that point to attack Republican House member Jim Nussle, who is seeking the GOP nomination to run for governor in 2006. Vilsack is not seeking re-election, but is considered a possible 2008 presidential campaign contender.

Nussle has criticized Vilsack for basing his economic policies on “photo-ops” rather than real incentives for businesses and investors. Vilsack accused Nussle of being out of touch with Iowa voters:

I think Congressman Nussle, really . . . this governor's race is going to be a good thing for him. He will be able to travel around the state and see a lot of activity.

However, Nussle campaign spokeswoman Maria Comella pointed out the congressman has spent 40 days traveling throughout Iowa, visiting more than 120 towns and cities, since announcing he will run for governor.

[ 08/09/2005 11:58 AM ]

Forced Confession?

The Boston Globe’s Frank Phillips writes Mitt Romney has promised to give “close consideration” to a bill that would require the Catholic Archdiocese of Boston and other Massachusetts churches to make their financial statements available to the public.

While Romney stopped short of endorsing the bill, he did say he believes “strongly” that nonprofit organizations should be required to disclose their financial assets and details and that he was “open to arguments” that religious organizations should fall under the same requirements, “Clearly, nonprofit organizations should be subject to a level of disclosure which is consistent with the tax treatment they receive,” Romney said.

[ 08/09/2005 11:36 AM ]

A Little Give and Take

The Richmond Times-Dispatch finds George Allen is getting by with a little help from his friends. When he served as National Republican Senatorial Committee Chair, Allen played a leading role in helping candidates such as John Thune add four new Senate seats to the GOP side in the 2004 elections. And now, many of those former recipients are giving back to Allen’s re-election campaign:

The Virginia Republican's campaign received $103,500 from political action committees of 17 current and former Republican senators in the first six months of the year, including $2,000 from Thune's new Heartland Values PAC. One of the most generous early donors was the Volunteer PAC of Senate Majority Leader Bill Frist, R-Tenn., which gave the Allen campaign $10,000.

[ 08/09/2005 11:29 AM ]

That's the Ticket

The Boston Globe has a fun look at which states could potentially offer two presidential candidates in 2008. I’ve already mentioned more than once the possibility of an all-New York (Hillary Clinton, Rudy Giuliani, George Pataki) or all Virginia (George Allen, Mark Warner) contest.

The Globe also mentions Tennessee (Bill Frist and Democrat Governor Phil Bredesen), Arkansas (Wesley Clark and Governor Hike Huckabee), Massachusetts (John Kerry and Mitt Romney), Pennsylvania (Ed Rendell and Rick Santorum) and Colorado (Republican Governor Bill Owens and Tom Tancredo). Of course, these are states that could simply field two candidates and are not likely to have two presidential nominees in the way New York or Virginia realistically could.

[ 08/09/2005 10:35 AM ]

Sacrifice Fly

Dick Morris says a campaign against Jeanine Pirro is not in Hillary Clinton’s best interests, “This is just the kind of fight that Sen. Clinton would have hoped to avoid.”

Morris says Pirro takes away Clinton’s strongest talking points:

Jeanine Pirro is pro-choice, pro-gun control, pro-affirmative action, pro-gay-civil unions and pro-immigration. And, of course, she's a woman.


In a sense, Hillary will have to end up running against someone who is quite like herself in her public positions: Except, of course, Pirro is a good old-fashioned anti-tax, anti-crime, tough-on-terror Republican from the suburbs.

Morris says Pirro doesn’t need to beat Clinton to damage Clinton’s 2008 prospects. If Pirro can come closer than the 12-point loss Rick Lazio suffered in 2000, “ Hillary will have some explaining to do to tell why fewer New Yorkers wanted her to be re-elected than voted for her in the first place.”

And if the race appears that close, Clinton may have to get her priorities in order:

If she is engaged in a nip-and-tuck battle in New York to keep what she already has, she will have to divert $30 million or $40 million from her presidential race and spend her time in Rochester, rather than in Iowa. If Pirro posts some early gains, particularly upstate, where it is cheap to do early advertising, Hillary and Bill may read the handwriting on the wall and she may pull out of the race.

[ 08/09/2005 10:19 AM ]

Russ in a Rush

Russ Feingold is on the move. The Wisconsin senator has already visited Florida, Alabama, Tennessee and Pennsylvania on political trips this year as he explores the possibility of running for president in 2008.

And now Feingold has announced plans to travel to Los Angeles later this month. While in California, Feingold will give speeches, hold a fundraiser for his PAC and tape a guest appearance on the Tavis Smiley’s PBS show.

[ 08/09/2005 09:54 AM ]

Best of the "B" Team

Last night I spoke with a Democratic source that wished to remain anonymous because of their proximity to Hillary Clinton and New York politics. This source tells me Clinton’s people view Jeanine Pirro as a more formidable opponent than Ed Cox, but still not someone who seriously raises the concerns of Clinton’s re-election team.

“She’s smart, good-looking and has a great record in New York. But she’s also basically a liberal who happens to be running in the Republican primary. She’s not going to get the support of the Conservative Party. What does that say about the state of New York Republicans when the best they can offer is a Nixon relative or a liberal? George Pataki and Rudy Giuliani are the only Republicans in New York who can win statewide office and they both want to be president.”

[ 08/09/2005 09:43 AM ]

Her Bill is Taxing

Finally, Gallup polled on several questions about Hillary Clinton specifically. 68 percent of respondents find Clinton to be a “strong and decisive leader.” 60 percent find her to be “likeable.” 54 percent say she “cares about the needs of people like you.” 53 percent find her “honest and trustworthy.”

Then, the numbers take a sharp downward turn. Only 44 percent say Clinton “shares your values.” And 41 percent say she would “unite the country and not divide it.” Finally, 43 percent of respondents said they are “less likely” to support Hillary because of her marriage to Bill Clinton. 30 percent said it made them “more likely” to support her.

[ 08/09/2005 09:35 AM ]

King of the Hill

The Gallup poll found much less candidate debate on the Democrat side. Hillary Clinton comes out ahead by a margin of more than two-to-one over her nearest competition.

Clinton took in 40 percent of the vote, with John Kerry coming in a distant second at 16 percent. John Edwards was right behind Kerry with 15 percent.

Joe Biden, Wesley Clark, Bill Richardson, Evan Bayh and Mark Warner all registered in single digits in the poll in descending order.

[ 08/09/2005 09:26 AM ]

Rudy on Top

A new Gallup poll has Rudy Giuliani leading the pack of Republicans considering a White House campaign in 2008.

Giuliani won 27 percent of the vote, edging out John McCain, who took in 24 percent. Condoleezza Rice was a strong third, with 19 percent.

Bill First, Mitt Romney, George Pataki, George Allen, Sam Brownback and Chuck Hagel all tested in single digits in descending order.

[ 08/09/2005 09:20 AM ]

Don't Hate Her Because She's Beautiful

In announcing her plans to challenge Hillary Clinton for Senate in 2006, New York prosecutor Jeanine Pirro said Clinton is more concerned about seeking the White House than representing New Yorkers:

When Mrs. Clinton first came to us and said she wanted to be a New Yorker, she asked New York to put out a welcome mat and we did. But now she wants us to re-elect her even though she won't promise to serve out her term and wants to use us as a springboard to the presidency. She's asking us to become her doormat.

Aside from her impressive resume, Pirro was named one of America's "most beautiful people" by People magazine in 1997. However,
a Quinnipiac University poll released on The Buzz last week showed Clinton leading Pirro 63 to 29 percent.

[ 08/09/2005 09:08 AM ]

The Color Purple

Will Franklin of the WILLisms blog, writes in to The Buzz to add his voice to those saying Tim Pawlenty’s cigarette tax should not hurt his 2008 prospects:

I concur with the reader on the cig tax hike. I like him more, not less, for it.

Based on the number of pro-Pawlenty emails I’ve received over the last several days, I’m just about ready to move Pawlenty back into the red column. The rest of his record is solidly conservative. And if his perception has not been as damaged as the media and some advocacy groups think, then there’s no reason to keep him purple.

If you’re on the anti-Pawlenty side of the argument, please let me know. I’ll see how things shape up at the end of the day and go from there.

[ 08/09/2005 08:58 AM ]

Party Animal

While speaking to a group of Democrats in his home state of Vermont, DNC Chair Howard Dean outlined his plan to bring his party back to power. And once again, it echoes Republican Party building strategy of the last several decades:

We need a message. It has to be clear. The framing of the debate determines who wins the debate. Running away from issues is how you lose elections.


We need to position ourselves as the party of change. I think we have learned that when big changes happen in the House and Senate, they happen because one party nationalizes the race and becomes the change agent.

[ 08/09/2005 08:49 AM ]

The Visitor

PoliticsNH.com’s James Pindell reports Wisconsin Senator Russ Feingold will be making his first visit of the 2008 cycle to New Hampshire. In late September, Feingold will be the featured speaker at the first annual Eleanor Roosevelt Dinner, held by Rockingham County Democrats. Feingold told PoliticsNH.com:

Now I know that when a person comes to New Hampshire people start talking about the presidential race, but really what I plan to do in New Hampshire is really nothing different from what we have been doing in other states.

[ 08/08/2005 02:09 PM ]

Raising the Bar

Hillary Clinton was the keynote speaker of the American Bar Association's Commission on Women in the Profession this weekend. She reportedly received the loudest applause of the six featured speakers. During her remarks, Clinton said:

I sometimes worry today that the voices of those who are on the front lines fighting the battles - making sure that equal justice under the law is not just a slogan but a reality - are not as loud as they should be, not as vigorous in standing up to power as they need to be.

[ 08/08/2005 01:57 PM ]

Buttering Them Up

The Associated Press reports Wesley Clark was the keynote speaker at the Maine Democrats’ annual lobster cookout dinner. During his speech, Clark discussed, “the importance of strong Democratic leadership on issues such as family values, the economy and health care.”

[ 08/08/2005 01:49 PM ]

Tell Me, Does It Hurt?

In their latest “Insider’s Poll,” National Journal asks if Bill Frist’s move on funding for embryonic stem cell research will help or hurt his White House ambitions. The poll surveyed 50 Democrats and 54 Republicans. The final results: 43 say it “helps” 55 say his “hurts.”

The GOP was split, with 24 saying, “helps,” and 30 saying “hurts.” As one GOP insider says:

It isn't the position, for or against, that hurts Frist; rather, it is the continued habit of changing his position on the issues.

[ 08/08/2005 01:44 PM ]

Code Breakers

Just for the record, these html tags are all new to me. I’m still learning the ropes, to put it kindly. If anyone has coding suggestions that would make the blog more reader-friendly, please don’t hesitate to pass them along: epfeiffer@nationalreview.com

Right now, I’m working on some coding issues with the NRO server. Once those are cleared up, I’ll be posting a lot of pictures, both my own and from the web. Hopefully I’ll have that up and running in the next day or two.

[ 08/08/2005 01:37 PM ]

An Appointment Worth Breaking

The Kansas City Star writes Sam Brownback needs to pay more attention to state GOP politics before diving too deeply into the White House 2008 field:

The deal is this: If Brownback should win national office in 2008, the governor back home appoints his Senate successor. If a Democrat, namely Sebelius, holds the governorship, that replacement will be a Democrat. Washington Republicans won’t be as charitable toward Brownback and his plans for the White House knowing his success could mean the loss of a Senate seat.

[ 08/08/2005 01:31 PM ]

Buzz Cut

I’ll be away from the computer for a bit working on some reporting for NRO and The Buzz. I’ll be back with the afternoon news update and more reporting by 2pm. See you then.

[ 08/08/2005 12:16 PM ]

Smoke Signals

A number of Buzz readers wrote in over the weekend disagreeing with the assessment that Minnesota Governor Tim Pawlenty’s new cigarette tax increase keeps him out of the 2008 White House field. Buzz reader Jim captured the sentiment of many readers who emailed when he wrote:

I doubt that mainstream Republicans would be aghast about a tax increase on cigarettes. Even a large increase. If it keeps lower income and kid's, those who can't afford the increase, from smoking so much the better in most people minds. Educated people long ago chose to quit or smoke, but no one with a brain "supports" people starting to smoke. As long as Pawlenty doesn't increase the cost of fishing licenses or gasoline he can withstand the fall out nationally.

[ 08/08/2005 11:28 AM ]

Who're You Calling Yellow?

Buzz reader Steve writes in with a suggested addition to my new color-coded candidate labeling system:

Mr. Pfeiffer,

I like the color – good idea. And, even though I’m sure I am only one of many who had a similar thought, I cannot resist myself.

U.N. Officials should be denoted in yellow.

[ 08/08/2005 11:18 AM ]

The Second Most Important Person in the Room

Bob Novak has the scoop on a Hillary Clinton fundraiser over the weekend. The best part of the story is that being a former president and current husband is only good enough for second billing at a Hillary event:

Although Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton is awash with contributions to finance her 2006 re-election campaign in New York, a large local newspaper advertisement solicits vacationers to pay $1,000 per person to attend a two-hour reception Friday evening in Nantucket, Mass.


The quarter-page ad in the Nantucket Inquirer and Mirror gives ''President William Jefferson Clinton'' second billing under his wife as a ''special guest.''

[ 08/08/2005 10:50 AM ]

Take a Look at Me Now

The Los Angeles Times’ Janet Hook looks at Hillary Clinton’s attempts to fashion herself as a political moderate and how it is affecting her standing on both the national stage and in New York:

"I hated her with a passion," said John Perri, a Long Island businessman who heard Clinton speak last week at a country club in Woodbury, N.Y. "But I've come to respect her. She's a lot more moderate now."


The question for Clinton now is whether she can get a second look from skeptics in the rest of the nation. In a presidential race, she would be courting swing voters in the South and other regions who are far more conservative than the moderate Republicans and independents of New York. But if she lurched too conspicuously to the center, some strategists say, Clinton might feed a suspicion harbored even by some Democrats: that she is an ambitious opportunist who tailors her views for political purposes.

[ 08/08/2005 10:42 AM ]

Money Back Guarantee

The Boston Herald reports Mitt Romney is running a records check of his campaign donors and returning any questionable donations to his re-election committee:

Romney, who is plotting a 2008 presidential bid, has gone on a campaign donation return spree, giving back 21 contributions worth a total of $9,075 since the beginning of June.

[ 08/08/2005 10:35 AM ]

You Heard it Here First: Mike Allen to Time Magazine

The New York Times confirms my scoop from last week that exceptionally skilled Washington Post reporter Mike Allen will be leaving to become a White House correspondent for Time magazine. When asked about his move, Allen said:

Mr. Allen comes to the White House with his own sources, having covered the beat for The Post during Mr. Bush's first term. He explained his decision to join Time this way: "An editor at Time told me they aim for intellectual and literary seduction. I was hooked. This is very hard, because walking into The Washington Post newsroom is like stepping onto the grass at Fenway."

[ 08/08/2005 10:22 AM ]

Did He Just Write What I Think He Did?

In his new column today, the Los Angeles Times’ Ron Brownstein compares the successful electoral and legislative strategy of Republicans to the dictatorship of North Korea:

The essence of the modern Republican governing strategy is self-reliance. The goal is to resolve all issues in a manner that solidifies their political coalition. The means is to pass legislation primarily by unifying Republicans, thus shrinking opportunities for Democrats to exert influence. This approach represents the political equivalent to what the North Korean government calls Juche: a strategy of maximizing independence by minimizing dependence on outside forces.

The rest of Brownstein’s article is far less abrasive. His main argument is that Republicans need to be wary of overreaching when pushing through their agenda. However, while it’s great to show readers your vast knowledge of cultural and historic references, comparing one of the two major American political parties to a fascist dictatorship is probably not the smoothest move. Just ask Dick Durbin or Howard Dean.

[ 08/08/2005 10:19 AM ]

Sleeper Cell

While appeared on CNN’s “Late Edition,” George Allen also was asked how he would deal with the stem cell controversy. Allen said:

I am for stem-cell research, particularly stem-cell research that can get through three filters that I have: number one, the advancement of science; number two, proper federal funding; and third, trying to avoid the ethical controversy. In California, in Stanford University and elsewhere, they are getting stem cells that have the properties, the flexibility of embryonic stem cells without having to destroy an embryo. It seems to me that would be the appropriate funding from the federal government.

[ 08/08/2005 09:44 AM ]

Colorful Language

A small change today for Buzz readers. From now on, I will be identifying prospective members of the 2008 White House field with color-coded labels.

Conservative candidates will appear in red, the first time their name is mentioned in a post. Liberal candidates will be blue, and moderates purple. Journalists and politicians not considered part of the 2008 field will still appear in bold lettering to mark their first reference.

Assuming all goes according to plan, over the next week I will be unveiling other new reader-friendly features to the Buzz. I'll let you know as each new addition prepares to roll out.

UPDATE: Already getting a lot of feedback on this, mostly positive, but some not happy with particular labels. When I label a candidate "purple" it should be noted this is a reflection of both their national perception and the state they represent. It can be a tough call sometimes. Mitt Romney represents what is arguably the bluest state in the nation. But his record and image are "red" enough that he merits the "red" label. Tim Pawlenty has a mostly conservative record. But after his cigarette tax increase, he certainly has the reputation as someone not entirely in line with the GOP on taxes. These labels are not concrete. I'll update labels based on changing events and reader feedback.

[ 08/08/2005 09:35 AM ]

Measuring Progress

George Allen appeared on CNN’s “Late Edition” yesterday where he was asked about new poll numbers showing disapproval with President Bush’s Iraq policy on the rise. When asked how the White House can shift those numbers, Allen said:

I think that the American people want to see progress, they want to see benchmarks. There will be certain things that I think will bolster our spirits. And seeing progress, such as having a constitution drafted hopefully by the middle of this month ... that will be progress on the political front. On the security front, we need to see more Iraqis standing up for their own security and their communities … And I think as that happens, I think there will be more and more support, as there was more support after the Iraqis voted in late January.

[ 08/08/2005 09:31 AM ]

Rice Says Progress Still Being Made

Condoleezza Rice says progress continues to be made in Iraq, despite the wave of bad news in the past two weeks:

It's a lot easier to see the violence and suicide bombing than to see the rather quiet political progress that's going on in parallel. If you think about how to defeat an insurgency, you defeat it not just militarily but politically.

[ 08/08/2005 09:14 AM ]