Sunday morning round-up
*The latest from Gaza…
Two more senior Hamas terrorists are dead. And this: 35 Palestinians killed by Islamists, 75 shot in legs in the past week “to ensure they don’t help Israel.” Allahpundit’s full coverage is here. The clock is ticking. U.S. tells UN Security Council to stuff it.
*Stuart Smalley is up 225 in the Minnesota Senate race recount.
*Reid + Blago + Cornyn = Juicy Senate fracas!
According to a Chicago Sun-Times report Saturday, Reid called Blagojevich on Dec. 3 and urged him to tap either state Veteran Affairs Director Tammy Duckworth or state Attorney General Lisa Madigan, both Democrats, to fill the seat. Blagojevich was arrested less than a week later on corruption charges that included allegations he was trying to sell the seat to the highest bidder.
The paper also reported that Reid advised the Illinois governor against selecting state Senate President Emil Jones, a mentor of President-elect Barack Obama, or Reps. Jesse Jackson Jr. and Danny Davis —all of whom, Reid reportedly said, would face difficulty holding on to the seat when it is up for election in 2010.
“For the last several weeks, Senator Reid has led the charge to deny the people of Illinois a voice in choosing their next U.S. senator in a special election,” Cornyn said in a Saturday afternoon statement. “Now we learn that Senator Reid also took the extraordinary step to lobby against two sitting U.S. congressmen and the state senate Majority Leader in Illinois, and instead told Governor Blagojevich that he supported an appointment for an individual [Duckworth] who recently lost a U.S. House election.
“The people of Illinois deserve a simple explanation from Senator Reid: Why does he believe these three Illinois officeholders are ‘unelectable’ to the U.S. Senate?” Cornyn added.
This is the second day in a row that Cornyn — still new in his job as NRSC chairman — has come out with strong statements against Senate Democrats. On Friday, Cornyn threatened to filibuster any effort to seat Democrat Al Franken, who holds a tiny lead over Republican incumbent Norm Coleman in the prolonged Senate recount in Minnesota.
Dingy Harry responds here.
*And the latest on how your TARP money is being spent from the DMN:
Thanks to the government, PlainsCapital is getting bigger.
The Dallas-based bank received $87.6 million last month from the U.S. Treasury Department’s $700 billion rescue program, known as TARP. The bank says it intends to put the money to good use – increasing loans for businesses, students and even jumbo mortgages. But it doesn’t rule out using funds for acquisitions.
“As we see this economy shake out, there are going to be some that make it and some that don’t make it,” said Alan B. White, PlainsCapital’s chairman and chief executive. “And there are going to be good opportunities that people are going to be able to take advantage of. I hope I’m one of those.”
Congress and taxpayer groups have objected to using bailout funds for acquisitions and grown impatient with the lack of new lending. But the government didn’t dictate how banks can use TARP funds. And it has no system for monitoring the funds after they are handed over.
While the government can take credit for fulfilling the first part of its mission – stabilizing the financial system – it has failed to stimulate lending. Credit remains tight as banks – even those that received TARP capital – have been wary to take on risk as the economy worsens. And they are free to use the funds for less risky investments.
“Some of the banks that have received the money don’t need it but decided they would go ahead and take it since it was available,” said Robert L. Clarke, a senior partner at Bracewell & Giuliani in Houston who was comptroller of the currency under presidents Ronald Reagan and George H.W. Bush. “But it has not changed their view of the risk of making loans.”
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Trackbacks
- Harry Reid Tries Moral Superiority: Fails « Jane Q. Republican
- This Just In: TARP Not Working « Jane Q. Republican
- More updates from Gaza « The Daley Gator
- Jules Crittenden » Roundup From The Ground Up
- UN Unveils Guidelines For Proportional War Between Israel and Hamas » The Nose On Your Face
- ButAsForMe! » Sunday morning round-up
- Sunday morning round-up « Top Daily Digest Reading
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Categories: Al Franken, Israel, Subprime crisis
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That’s their idea of getting a leg up on Israel.
What a travesty the voting process is in many of our states, especially Minnesota. The number of votes that “magically” appeared for Franken are statistical anomolies and should cause alarm for state officials. There is no way this election is not rift with fraud.
Harry Reid is just another sign that the Senate has become a courtyard for the royal “heirs” who feel they are “entitled” to becoming a Senator.
The appointment process has become an abused method of placing members in that austere body.
Senator Al Franken… Jeez, has anyone measured the drinking water in Minnesota for lead? It must be at “Instantaneous Retardation” levels.
What is missing from this recount fiasco in MN major. And that is this: Are there really that many voters that would vote for former comedian who was never funny and an Uber Liberal?
Sorry, in a conservative nation, it does not pass the smell test. Not even if Norm Coleman was a bad senator. He should have stole a page from the liberal playbook in that he should have been accused of some ethical lapse. In Democrat circles, that is a resume enhancer.
And since its harder to distinguish the two parties, especially since 2004, it just might have worked.
Voters must stop treating elections as a sporting event where the only thing that is important is “my team must win”.
MM,
NO end of 2008 wrap up or you still working on?
B
I say bomb Iran, the root of the evil.
That should be ‘pro-choice minister’. Where’s my coffee-?
Tried for hours last night to get into Debka File for updates on Gaza. Only live feed was from CNN and..ahem..we know how non-biased they are. Fox decided to rerun the special with Bill Hemmer for the second time. Debka’s back up this AM with a banner that says they were hit with a massive cyber attack at the same time the Israeli troops moved into Pali territory.
On the recount in MN – keep counting till you get the result you’re looking for then trash what’s left. Residents of MN should be up in arms. The fact they’re not is telling.
My mother is personal friends with Alan White, and in fact, was showing me the expensive crystal egg he gave her (which he does every year for Christmas) the other day. That’s why I was stunned that he’s taking any bailout money at all. He’s always been good to our family, and I would hope his ethics would lead him as he spends our taxpayer money.
However, it seems to me that the government is to blame here. Why shouldn’t banks do what they want with the money? There’s no regulation on it whatsoever! The money comes with no strings attached, no accountability, no requirements, no nothing. How will that help our economy? When are we going to realize that just giving money away because you feel sorry for the less fortunate only enables them to keep asking for more? It disgusts me the way our government and country has been hijaked by liberal agenda, and something needs to be done to stop the bleeding!
And people thought Flroida voters had no clue.
Hamas has done such a good job of spreading anarchy and chaos. What could Fatah do to make it worse?
Isn’t that sort of like killing all your chickens before the fox even gets into the henhouse?
Politico:
Uh-oh, looks like Reid’s gonna have a little trouble explaining this to his constituents; given Obama and the Democrats’ `08 victories, this does not bode well for Reid’s reelection plans.
Let’s see if I understand any of this…. We “gave” money to banks with no strings attached, they are free to spend it as they choose, or acquire the assets of other banks or holdings. Unlike the loans to automakers, what are the provisions for paying back these loans/gifts? Did we simply print more money or did we borrow, again, from our big sugar daddy – China? And, we got what in return? Worthless paper?
Sounds like sub-prime loans to me, with new packaging courtesy of Uncle Sam, whose just a tad broke at the moment.
It seems so obvious that if the democrats can’t win, they keep “recounting” votes until they do, just like in Minnesota. No-one really complains, just whimpers a bit.
Gee, I thought Muslims harming other Muslims was against Islamic law.
Well put: 24klady
Any banks have to prove their viability with new business plans in 90 days either? hey, cmon…It’s not their fault they looted their banks; They deserve our help first. Besides, they are SO honorable they will do the right thing and pay us back with derivatives of derivatives of derivatives.
Yeah. Except there has only been one recount. A legally mandeated one at that.
Bloomberg figures we now have bailout cost of $28,000 per man, women and child in this country…So far. I would have invested my share in an American built vehicle, American made guns, And American Whiskey !
My only hope, ISRAEL does not do their usual, STOP TOO SOON… MAN, Pennsylvania was the new Florida… They sure didn’t hold the title very long, as it looks like Minnesota may now hold the title… Last comment, MUSLIMS hurting MUSLIMS??? Impossible I say, for there are many RELIGIONS in the world, but only one RELIGION OF PEACE!!!
We the people said, (SCREAMED) NO to bailouts…..all of them….we got them…
Then when we get a chance to vote……
they recount the vote till they get what they feel is good for us………
WTF!!!!!!!!!!!!
So what do we do now??????????
Minnesota recount is similar to Washington state recount in 2004? They kept recounting until they found enough new ballots for the democrat to win.The press seems to like those kinds of election results.
On the topic of Gaza, as I mentioned above (#6), Iran is the real enemy, via Hot Air Headlines…
Bingo!
Unfortunately, this method is popular with the average Democrat voter. They truely are clueless…
Really. Was there ever any doubt? Soros didn’t finance all the Secretaries of State for nothing.
By the way, I’m still waiting for lgm’s Palestinian solution.
I guess it’s more fun to offer criticism than solutions.
Ann Coulter was right, in her column a few weeks back – if the RNC does not fight this one out in court, then there is little point in making any more donations to them.
Although I would have no problems with a Senator Franken – due to the fact he’s a public embarrassment that will bring more trouble to his party than the seat’s worth – there is no way Republicans can just hand over Coleman’s seat without protest.
After all the bellyaching Democrats did over the 2000 election, I don’t see where your guys have any credibility in extolling the veracity of a single recount.
I would not know, but it makes GREAT theater doesn’t it?
We now await two more senior Hamas terrorists to write back from Hell and tell us of those 72 virgins.
All my friends in MN told me not to worry, Coleman would get it. Yeah sure. We are all being set up.
Reminds me of Mark Twain’s quote, “suppose you were an idiot. And suppose you were a member of Congress. But I repeat myself.” With the thought of Stuart Smalley stealing this election in the same manner as the Washington State’s Governor’s Mansion sickens me greatly. Fasten your seatbelts folks! It going to be a very bumpy ride.
ΜΟΛΩΝ ΛΑΒE (mo-lone lah-veh) Translation: Come and take them!
That’s right Boomer: Recount until you get the results you want.
I am not extolling the virtues of anything. I am merely pointing out the fact that there have not been multiple recounts in Minnesota. I did not think that too controversial an issue.
Why oh why did I move back to Minnesota?
I don’t have a problem with a recount. I do, however, have a problem with all the amazing never-before-seen ballots that against all odds go for the idiot Franken. Leave it to a lawyer to justify such illegal activity.
As for Hamas, they are quickly becoming the “religion of pieces”. I say even if they start waving that scarf that is usually wrapped around their gourd Israel should keep at it.
I’d suggest you plead temporary insanity.
Maybe not you, in particular, but from what I’ve read and heard over the last few days, the Left is ready to take the first recount as the be-all and end-all; already, Dems far and wide have been dancing the “let’s-not-drag-it-out” mambo since Franken took the lead in some pretty dubious tallying.
One of the biggest mysteries of politics is what factors cause people to vote for their candidates of choice. One would hope that it includes qualities such as proven effectiveness, experience, honesty and integrity, clearly stated positions on issues, evidence of follow through on campaign promises, etc. Instead, there is no rhyme or reason in election results. Obama may turn out to be a good president, but on the other hand he has none of the qualities I just listed, at least as far as anyone knows. Instead, he was elected because of his skills in mesmerizing the masses. Have we become a nation that values shallow “rock stars” over substantive, thoughtful people? I used to smile at the word “sheeple”, but not any more. Would someone please explain to me how a fecal stain like Al Franken can win even a single vote? If I were a Minnesotan, I would be so ashamed that I would never admit it. In the name of decency and self-respect Minnesotans, at least rise up and demand an honest election.
You really think there are people out there that value principled leaders? After what we’ve seen from the left over the last 8 years, nothing would surprise me anymore…nothing.
These people don’t want leadership, they want that rock-star image…to hell with leadership in a dangerous world and seriously crippled economy!
I see a consortium of Madoff Investors is calling for a Federal Bailout. Did not we all know with the first bailout this would mushroom? The scammed are now the scammers. No, it will not end until it crashes.
Lock and load, you too ladies-we are in for a wild ride.
Roll on ,Israel.
Keep pounding those killers.
Tea-sipping,boot-licking diplomacy without pre-conditions
won’t bring the lasting peace that a credible,violent self defense will.
-
However, I would support sending
Al Frankin to Gaza as a human shield.
Israel needs to be an island.
Send Franken to DC, appoint Caroline to the Senate and seat Blago’s selection too. Send in all the morons and nuts.
Don’t worry, Obama was elected to fix everything.
Anyone need any bomb shelter plans for the basement?
Poop meet fan………
I think I may revisit what that Russian guy is saying about the US crumbing in 2010.
For the past week or so, my credit card has been being rejected on some healthy purchases I was making for my vacation. I thought the magnetic strip on my card had gone bad BUT I found out this morning that my credit limit has been cut in half instead!?! Which makes no sense, since I just put it on my Amex and pay it off this month anyway.
Then I moved on to my taxes. I thought I had way overpayed my Federal tax for last year and was going to have a healthy cushion for a nice refund. But I just did a quick recalc before I ship my files off to my accountant…
And here I am about to make an offer on a house this week. These idiots are making it very difficult for those of us who actually generate real profits for companies.
(New Mexico Gov. Bill)Richardson to withdraw as Commerce secretary
New Mexico governor cites pending investigation of business dealings
PMSNBS
Ain’t life grand?
Give ‘em enough rope…and they self-abort!
reddit oopsie
http://www.reddit.com/r/politics/comments/7n4re/graphic_video_of_israel_defense_forces_attack_on/9rj2
a video supposedly of a Israel airstike on a market is actually a Pali “work accident” from September 23rd 2005, and was taken in the Jabalya refugee camp in the northern Gaza Strip. A Hamas pick-up truck carrying Qassam rockets detonated by mistake during a Hamas rally, leaving at least 15 killed and dozens more injured.
what’s even worse reddit won’t pull the video even though they admit its a fake.
don’t want to confuse the sheep I guess but thats the last time I ever use them .
btw got this from LGF.
I wish we would have had a basement included when we built our house, but I do have the technology to start digging one thanks to a pretty large crawl space, the proper tools on hand, and a strong back that has really firmed up thanks to all the snow I have been shoveling this winter. The rapid decline of our once great nation is another reason we have diversified out portfolio by investing heavily in canned goods, weapons, and ammunition!
ΜΟΛΩΝ ΛΑΒE (mo-lone lah-veh) Translation: Come and take them!
On January 4th, 2009 at 10:21 am, luckydogg said:
We should heed the advice and council of our founding fathers…
I believe that it is coming in the near future. The left knows it. They are so adamant about rescinding the 2nd Amendmant, so that it will be more patriot blood being shed than tyrant’s blood being shed.
Just a guess, but my money says the election committees and “state officials” are democraps. Like maybe they’ll work for a fair election? Don’t think so, their libs. Left wing election committees and left wing judges decide any political race that is close. Alla Gov. of Washington.
As Hugh Hewitt titled a book…”If it isn’t close they can’t cheat”. Pathetic but that is where we are at the present time in America.
My New Years Resolution “Blogging”
Come check me out.
http://youhavetobethistalltogoonthisride.blogspot.com/
Richardson down…is it too much to hope that Hildabeaste is also going down? Take a look at this recent link from The New York Times of all places:
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/28485901
Or, you can find it on MSNBC news links on the Internet Explorer home page.
Sorry, I don’t know how to make it a real link.
Not too bad there-Robert J. Congel got a minimum of 50 to 1 return on his investment-plus the savings of the bonds being tax exempt. Miss Hillary works cheap. It is that Hopey-Changey thing I guess.
If this investigation goes formal Robert J. Congel might have to visit Fort Marcy Park.
We’ll keep our Guns, they can keep the Change.
Now Laree, it’s a kick site and love the redhead pic – I am so going to check back with you, just to keep you on your toes
re: ArizonaNeanderthal # 52:
Thanks for elaborating. The Clintons have been getting away with this sort of crap for years. Nothing sticks to them, and just once I would like to see justice served on them.
Eagles Rock! The Vikings had their butts handed to them in their home ! May this be the first of many bad things to happen to the ignorant citizens in the peoples republic of MinneSOta!
As a resident of Minnesota, I want to thank you for your kind comments…moron. Totally uncalled for and highly offensive. You owe me an apology.
As another Minnesoootian I don’t know what to say. Half my neighbors voted for Frankin? If “Moderate” Coleman couldn’t smoke this guy by at least 10 points we deserve what we get. The state is running in the red, the dems and rino’s want to raise taxes. We are already the 4th highest in the nation. The Vikes want 500 million or so for a new stadium. Screw that, nobody watches them anyway! Liberals everywhere raising my taxes and it’s 15 below zero. Any suggestions for a nice low tax, warm, conservative state to move to. Oh ya Coleman was the deciding vote against drilling in anwar. We could’ve had more American oil by now. Thank’s Norm.
That’s the problem. He also voted for the bailout…now has been hoisted by his own petard. Unfortunately we all suffer b/c of RINOs like Norm, whether in office or out.
If indeed the frankenfish is seated as Senator from Minnesoootian Land Conservatives there can start yesterday on cleaning out the rest of the RINOs from Party Leadership. The “moderates-Liberal Lites” are determined to push us out–this is a war for the soul of the Party. There is no reason for us to continue to support these Coleman types, Juan Hernandez McCain included, if they are not going to deliver anything worthwhile.
First we get rid of the weakling, take our short term beatings and come back stronger. It is RINO season-no bag limit, no “No Hunting” areas.
Eagles Rock: is that a theme park? Could this be the year of the Cardinals?
I’m not a big fan of Coleman. In fact, when his campaign sent me a request for a contribution, I tore it up and returned it to him with a letter outlining why he was not getting my money. I guess a lot of people did that and now he has lost to a complete scumbag. Al Franken is so disgusting…I would move to another state if I could! Seriously, I am not proud of Minnesota right now. HOWEVER, for anyone to say that they wish “bad things” to happen to the “ignorant citizens of Minnesota”…well, it is an ignorant statement itself. I don’t know who “Obdurate” is, but comments like that are mean spirited and not worthy of commenting on a Malkin blog. I will assume it was a troll who swooped and pooped and will consider the source.
Good post! If the election of Al Freaky Frankin doesn’t get us riled up enough to work toward defeating him, then we do deserve what we get. This election is indeed a great incentive to get out there and rebuild. If the Republican Party won’t do it, then perhaps a “Conservative Party” is necessary. By the way, if the Cardinals get to the super bowl, I will be cheering for them! I don’t mind that my Vikings lost. They are pretty good, but not good enough for the big time…yet. There is always next year!