Yet Another Republican Under Investigation

It seems that yet another Republican has shown a lack of ethics.

WASHINGTON (AP) -- The FBI is investigating whether Rep. Curt Weldon, R-Pa., used his influence to secure lobbying and consulting contracts for his daughter, two people familiar with the inquiry said Saturday.

The inquiry focuses on lobbying contracts worth $1 million that Weldon's daughter, Karen Weldon, obtained from foreign clients and whether the congressman helped steer them, they said. They spoke on condition of anonymity because of the confidentiality of the criminal investigation.

Weldon, a 10-term Republican from the Philadelphia suburbs, long has denied any wrongdoing, and his top aide said Saturday no one had notified him of an investigation.

"I think if there was an investigation, somebody would have contacted us," said Russ Caso, Weldon's chief of staff.

Caso said Weldon and his staff were "100 percent caught off guard" when they learned of the investigation, first reported late Friday by McClatchy Newspapers. This account cited two individuals with knowledge of the existence of the investigation who declined to be identified because of the confidentiality of criminal investigations.

Source: Sources: FBI investigating lawmaker, daughter's contracts - CNN.com

Bob Ney Officially Pleas Guilty

Bob Ney has finally formally plead guilty and now faces sentencing on January 19th. Ney's lawyer told the judge that Ney would resign from Congress before then, though Ney's term ends 16 days before the sentencing.

Prosecutors have recommended a 27 month sentence and a fine in the range of $5,000 to $60,000. That far less then he could have received, with the maximum sentence for the charge he plead to being 10 years in prison and $500,000 in fines.

WASHINGTON - Rep. Bob Ney pleaded guilty Friday to bribery charges stemming from the Jack Abramoff influence-peddling investigation.

The Ohio Republican was the first member of Congress convicted in the scandal that has tainted the White House as well as Capitol Hill. He faces up to 10 years in prison.

Ney confessed his wrongdoing before U.S. District Judge Ellen S. Huvelle in a federal courthouse a few blocks distant from the Capitol, where until recently he wielded a chairman's gavel.

The Ohio Republican did not speak to reporters as he made his way into the courthouse. It was his first public appearance since entering an alcohol treatment program last month.

Source: Rep. Ney pleads guilty in lobbying scandal - Politics - MSNBC.com

MSNBC Thinks Ney Guilty Plea Will Keep GOP Corruption Story Going Strong

...Of course that seems fairly obvious. Speaking for myself, I wasn't too thrilled to find out Congress was no better that a top 40 radio station.

WASHINGTON - Two upcoming court dates will keep the pay-to-play, influence peddling scandal involving disgraced lobbyist Jack Abramoff back in the headlines just before the mid-term elections. Friday, Congressman Bob Ney pleads to two felony counts, and, two-weeks later, former White House official David Safavian will be sentenced.

On Friday, Oct. 13, Ohio Republican Rep. Bob Ney becomes a convicted felon. Ney is the only Member of Congress to be criminally charged in the Jack Abramoff lobbying scandal. He is scheduled to enter formal guilty pleas Friday morning in federal court before Judge Ellen Huvelle to accepting hundreds of thousands of dollars of trips, meals and other gifts in exchange for taking official action on behalf of clients of Abramoff.

Source: Pre-election sentencings keep lobbying in news - Politics - MSNBC.com

Brown Has 14 Point Lead Over DeWine In New Poll

Results:

Sherrod Brown: 54%
Mike DeWine: 40%

Be sure to click the source link at the bottom of the post to see a breakdown of the numbers.

In an election for United States Senator from Ohio today, 10/12/2006, Brown defeats DeWine, according to a SurveyUSA poll conducted for WCPO-TV Cincinnati, WKYC-TV Cleveland, and WYTV-TV Youngstown.

Brown, who represents Ohio's 13th District in Congress, unseats DeWine, 54% to 40% in a vote today.

Since an identical SurveyUSA poll 9/21/06, Brown has gained 2 points and DeWine has lost 2 points.

Brown's lead has grown from 10 to 14 points.

Source: Poll: Brown increases lead over DeWine in Senate race

Joy Padgett To Campaign With Karl Rove

The evil political mastermind himself will be joining Joy Padgett in a Washington D.C. area fundraiser. Thankfully she won't be bringing him into our area.

Republican congressional candidate Joy Padgett will try to make up for lost fundraising time with an event near the White House featuring presidential political strategist Karl Rove.

An invitation obtained by The Associated Press says Rove, the architect of President Bush's campaign successes, is a special guest for a Padgett fundraiser Oct. 20 at a well-established Washington power hangout.

The invitation for the lunchtime event sets contribution goals from $1,000 to $5,000.

Padgett, a state senator from Coshocton, entered the race for a U.S. House seat in eastern Ohio last month when GOP Rep. Bob Ney decided not to seek re-election. Since then, Ney agreed to plead guilty to federal corruption charges and the race to replace him has garnered national attention.

Padgett faces Democrat Zack Space of Dover, who started running in late 2005 and has been the party nominee for the seat since May.

Her campaign had planned a fundraiser with House Speaker Dennis Hastert for this week, but Hastert backed out when he came under fire for his handling of the Mark Foley congressional page sex scandal.

Source: Padgett to hold D.C. event with Bush political guru - Examiner.com

Iraq troop levels may hold until 2010? Is This Bush's October Surprise?

In what has to be more bad news for the Republican party, the AP is reporting that we may be maintaining the current troop levels in Iraq until 2010.

WASHINGTON - The U.S. Army has plans to keep the current level of soldiers in Iraq through 2010, the top Army officer said Wednesday, a later date than Bush administration or Pentagon officials have mentioned thus far.

Source: Iraq troop levels may hold until 2010 - Conflict in Iraq - MSNBC.com

BREAKING: Explosion At New York High Rise Apartment

Witnesses claim they saw a helicopter (some reports say a small plane) fly into the high rise apartment building. They are reporting that it hit a high floor of the building at 71st and York Avenue in New York City. A witness is saying that it didn't look to be aiming at the building. Reporters are saying the building is close to a helipad and that people are trapped at the top of the building.

They are saying they don't believe this is linked to terrorism and there are reports that the helicopter looked to be in trouble before it crashed.

The FAA in Washington is saying this was a small fixed wing aircraft.

A picture of the smoking building has been put up on the New York based music blog Brooklyn Vegan. I know it's an odd source but it's the first clear picture I could find.

It appears that water is spraying out of the building signaling that firefighters have made it up to the fire. There are also reports of one person dead on the street in front of the building.

Though this isn't believed to be terrorism related, fighter jets are flying over several major U.S. cities.

It's now 3:37 PM, this post has been updated several times.

The FAA has placed a temporary flight restriction for a mile around the site of the accident.

Two reported dead. One in wreckage, one on the ground. Believed to be a fixed wing airplane. The crash reportedly happened due to the plane attempting a sudden sharp turn.

Update 4:11 PM: Added picture of apartment building from Google Earth.

Update 5:28 PM: Apparently one of two people on the plane was New York Yankee pitcher Cory Lidle.

Bob Ney To Plead Guilty Friday

My former Representative (before '02 re-districting) is scheduled to appear in a D.C. court Friday to formally plead guilty. Despite his impending prison time Ney still holds his seat in Congress and will be receiving his Congressional pension.

With Republicans still reeling from the former Rep. Mark Foley (R-Fla.) scandal, more bad news is on the way for the GOP later this week.

Rep. Bob Ney (R-Ohio), who has admitted to corruptly accepting thousands of gifts from lobbyists in exchange for legislative favors, is scheduled to appear before a federal judge on Friday the 13th to formally admit wrongdoing.

And to the dismay of Republicans, he will likely do so as a sitting member of Congress.

Ney has given up his gavels on the House Administration Committee and the Financial Services Housing and Community Opportunity subcommittee, but has kept his seat.

He will appear before Judge Ellen Segal Huvelle at 10 a.m. at the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia.

Source: Ney, still collecting federal salary, to appear in court this week

Live Blogging the Bush Press Conference

Conference Starts 11:00 AM

Talks about federal deficit being cut in half. Urges Congress to make tax cuts permanent. Turns to North Korea.

US working to confirm test. Working with "partners" and UN to make sure "regime" is punished.

Update 11:06 AM

Want's to make sure North Korea (from here on NK) never exports bomb. Talks about six party agreement. No US nuclear weapons on Korean peninsula due to that agreement. Thanks South Korea, China, Japan for their support. US "reserves all options" to protect their allies.

Update 11:10 AM

Turns to Iraq. Talks about assassination of Iraqi presidents brother. Says situation in Iraq is difficult. Says attacks always increase during Ramadan. Usual pep talk speech stuff ("were taking action, etc...).

Update 11:13 AM

Talks about Iraqi police being pulled off duty. Says it's part of a political process that's going forward. Says US will stand by Iraq government as they make "tough choices". Say's terrorists would use Iraqi oil to fund terrorism. Takes questions.

Update 11:17 AM

Asked if his administration is responsible for NK nuke. Talks about '94 talks, blames Clinton without mentioning his name. Now says it's the responsibility of the NK leader for not wanting to lead his country on a better path. Say's US can't "go it alone" on NK.

Update 11:21 AM

Will continue to work on a diplomatic solution. We "have to give every effort to do so". Next question. Does Iraq strategy need changed? Says we are constantly changing strategy. Say's extremists are using religion to achieve their goals. I guess we are at war with the religious right now. Trust General Casey to set strategy and troop numbers.

Update 11:33 AM

Says he understands the stakes and says he'll be repeating them a lot. Goes through the "stakes", nothing everyone hasn't heard before other then oil an an economic weapon. Next question. Back to NK. How can you say your policy on NK more successful then past policy when NK tested a weapon on your watch. Says unilateral talks didn't work, we needed to bring in surrounding countries. Says it's a hopeful sign that China is with us in talks. Next Question. Comments on his "beautiful suit". Asks about May, 2003 remark where Bush said we wouldn't tolerate a nuclear NK. Say's we still won't. Say's that now when we say that we aren't the only country saying it. Next question. Asks about reports of high Iraqi citizen casualties. Says recent report of 600,000 isn't credible, but that there are casualties and he regrets them. Next question. Asks about recent Republican problems. Bush confident Republicans will hold House and Senate. Say's some Democrats want to get out of Iraq. Biggest issue in campaign is economy, talks about taxes, gas prices, new jobs. Say's democrats will raise taxes for "whoever they can raise them on", not just the rich. Talks about terrorism.

Update 11:40 AM

Talks about Democrats voting against the torture bill. Of course he doesn't call it that. Doesn't question anybody's patriotism, but he does question their strategies. Say's Iraq is part of the "War on Terror". If we leave Iraq early the enemy will follow us here. Next question. Asks about Democrats complaining on Bush's portrayal of Democrats. He says it's fair to use their words and votes. Talks about Kerry's call for a timetable, says timetables are cut and run as far as he's concerned. Next question. Says his best suit is at the cleaners. Asks if he feel's he's losing support for the war. Say's he agrees with calls for a change in strategy if the plan isn't working. Say's you can't fight a war from Washington and that he trust General Casey (SP?).

Update 11:48 AM

Say's "stay the course" is about a quarter right. Again repeats that enemy in Iraq will follow us home. Next question. Asks about Bush's decision to not take out NK's nuclear fuels when they were all in one place right after NK said it planned to turn fuel into weapons. Bush asks if he means bombing NK. Says we must work diplomatically. Next question. Asks why we keep warning Iran when NK has nuclear weapons now and whether our lack of response to NK might weaken our position. Bush says we had different policies to deal with different area's and that we have stuck to our policies. Say's our position on NK is stronger now that we have more support from other countries. Say's we must try all diplomatic options before we order in our military. Say's in Iraq we had already exhausted diplomacy.

Update 11:55 AM

Next question. Asks if he is taking the possibility of one on one talks with NK off of the table. Says six party talks are a better option. He goes on to say that he's worried about NK citizens suffering under regime. Next question. Asks if Foley scandal has ruined Hastert's credibility. Says Hastert's strong statements show he has a desire to get to the bottom of it. Say's "Denny's very credible". Thinks elections will be decided on security and economy. Criticizes Pelosi on voting against tax cuts. Goes on to talk about terrorism.

Update 12:03 PM

Next question. Ask's if he's ready to live with a nuclear NK. He says no. Asks how he's going to avoid it when China won't support a war. Again he says we must use diplomacy because everyone's goals aren't completely the same. Reporter follows up asking about military option, he says we need to try diplomacy. Next question. Ask's about Woodward book and Iraq. Bush speculates that a record number of pages have been written about him, says it means he's making tough decisions. Say's he doesn't regret decision to remove Saddam from power. Just got breaking news email from MSNBC saying US planning on maintaining Iraq troop levels through 2010. Next question. Asks about Mexico fence and how it will be built. Also asks about "virtual fence". Bush says we'll build an actual fence, talks about the need for a guest worker program.

Update 12:05 PM

Say's some area aren't feasible to build a fence in.

Press Conference Ends 12:05 PM

Padgett And Space Have A Little Get Together Today

Joy Padgett and Zack Space are set to have their first public meeting today.

Today will mark the first time Democrat Zack Space and Republican Joy Padgett will appear together since Padgett replaced scandal-scarred Congressman Bob Ney on the ballot.

Both campaigns say their candidate will appear at a forum at the Tuscarawas Gun Club.

Padgett's campaign says Space skipped three previous events where the two could have fielded questions together. Space spokeswoman Angela Guyadeen says the Democrat's busy campaign schedule led to conficts [SIC] with two of those dates, and that Space was never invited to the third.

Padgett is a state senator who won a special election in September to replace Ney, who quit the race before agreeing to plead guilty to federal corruption charges.

Source: WTOV9.com - News - Space, Padgett Set To Appear Together For First Time

BREAKING: Possible Second North Korea Nuclear Test...

MSNBC is reporting that Japan is looking into a possible second nuclear test in North Korea.

Update 8:07 PM: - Added link.

Update 9:22 PM: South Korea say's it didn't detect anything, seems the story was wrong.

Update 10/11 12:08 PM: Japan detected an earthquake, not a nuclear test. 

Did Dewine ad Break DoD Regulations?

First the doctored 9/11 ad and now it seems Dewine may be getting a soldier in trouble, who's in charge of advertising in his campaign? This recent controversy centers on an ad showing a soldier in uniform that the Dewine campaign refuses to clarify as an actor or a real soldier.

It's a catch-22 for the Dewine campaign. If the soldier is an actor then the ad will be seen as misleading, though if the soldier is real then he faces discenaplenary action for violating a Department of Defense regulation barring soldiers for appearing in uniform at political events.

GOP Senator Mike DeWine's campaign is refusing to say whether a soldier appearing in one of the campaign's political ads is an actor or a real member of the military. The ad -- which ran roughly in the last week of September and the first week of October and is right here -- pictures family members of soldiers praising DeWine. For about three seconds, what appears to be an actual soldier is visible in uniform.

But a Department of Defense spokesperson has now told Election Central that "all military personnel...are prohibited from wearing military uniforms at political campaign or election events." The spokesman added that he'd "forwarded this matter over to the Army for review."

Source: OH-SEN: Did DeWine Campaign Induce Soldier To Violate Defense Department Regs? | TPMCafe

In "About Time" News, CQ Changes Ohio's 6th District Rating

Ohio's 6th district race, the only current Democratic seat CQ had in the "No Clear Favorite" column, had been moved two columns over to " "Democratic Favored".

An early gaffe by the Democratic nominee in Ohio’s 6th District might paradoxically end up paving the way for his victory on Nov. 7: Analysts and strategists say Democratic state Sen. Charlie Wilson’s successful write-in campaign for the May 2 primary, the consequence of his embarrassing failure to qualify for the primary ballot, proved his political organizing skills.

It also earned Wilson a dedicated support base, sky-high name recognition and a solid edge over his Republican opponent, state House Speaker pro tempore Chuck Blasdel. Because of these factors — and the strong tide running against Republicans in general in the midterm elections — CQPolitics.com is changing its rating on the Ohio 6 race to Democrat Favored from No Clear Favorite.

Wilson’s chances are further boosted by outgoing six-term 6th District incumbent Ted Strickland’s presence on the ticket as the Democratic nominee for governor. Strickland’s momentum in that contest has established him as the solid front-runner over the Republican nominee, Ohio Secretary of State Ken Blackwell.

Source: CQPolitics.com - Failure Results in Fortune for Democrat Wilson in Ohio 6 Race

BREAKING: Dennis Hastert To Take Questions On Foley

MSNBC is reporting that Speaker of the House Dennis Hastert is about to take questions on the Mark Foley scandal. More as the story develops.

Update: Conference Starts 10:49 AM

Talks about lowering taxes when asked about polls showing people want him to resign.

Asked about Kolbe's claims he knew in 2000. Says Kolbe was on page board then, says he should have came forward with it.

Says he understood everything his staff has told him so far. Satisfied with them so far.

Update 10:52AM

MSNBC cuts away to show former page walking in to meet with FBI. Missed several questions.

Talks about how Pelosi rejected his plan to reform page program "for some reason".

Walks away leaving many reporters questions unanswered.

Conference Ends 10:55 AM

Washington Post Writer Thinks Strickland Has Race In The Bag

Washington Post writer Chris Cillizza thinks Ted Strickland is sure to win the election and become Ohio's next Governor. In fact he ranks it as the second most likely to switch parties of currently Republican held states.

2. Ohio: This one is over. No matter what Secretary of State Ken Blackwell (R) and his Republican allies throw at Rep. Ted Strickland (D), nothing seems to stick. Outgoing GOP Gov. Bob Taft's ethical problems are the prime reason for this teflon effect, as voters have made up their minds that Republicans have sacrificed the public trust and it's time to give Democrats a chance. Strickland enters the final stretch with $4 million more than Blackwell to spend on the race and a double-digit lead in the polls. (Previous ranking: 2)

Candidate Profiles and Campaign Links: Blackwell, Strickland | Ohio Political Profile

Source: In Governors Races, Dems Still Hold Stronger Hand - The Fix

Last Day To Register To Vote In Ohio

Put down your coffee and go register to vote if you haven't already. Today (10/10) is the last day to register and be able to vote in November.

Another reminder for the election itself, bring identification! It's required under a new law.

R.C. 3503.28(A)(1)(6)

Voters must bring identification to the polls in order to verify identity. Identification may include a current and valid photo identification, a military identification that shows the voter’s name and current address, or a copy of a current utility bill, bank statement, government check, paycheck, or other government document, other than this reminder or a voter registration notification, that shows the voter’s name and current address. Voters who do not provide one of these documents will still be able to vote by providing the last four digits of the voter’s social security number and by casting a provisional ballot. Voters who do not have any of the above forms of identification, including a social security number, will still be able to vote by signing an affirmation swearing to the voter’s identity under penalty of election falsification and by casting a provisional ballot.

Register to vote

Republicans Pouring Money Into Ohio Senate Race

The Republican party is going to start paying for ad's in three states Senate campaigns and of course Ohio's on that short list.

WASHINGTON - In an unusual move, the Republican National Committee is investing heavily in television advertising in Senate races in Ohio, Tennessee and Missouri in what officials describe as a firewall strategy designed to limit Democratic gains in the Nov. 7 elections and maintain the GOP majority.

The move reflects a desire on the part of Ken Mehlman, the Republican Party chairman, and other strategists to exercise more control over the drive to retain a majority, according to several Republican officials. They said the decision has caused friction with officials at the National Republican Senatorial Committee, which historically has been the only party entity to run commercials on behalf of its candidates.

Source: Republicans target three Senate races - Politics - MSNBC.com

Is Zack Space Getting Some National Help?

The Buckeye State Blog is reporting that the DCCC may be sending some coordinators to help Zack Space with his run against Joy Padgett.

Word on the street is that Zack Space is getting some DCCC cavalry in the form of field coordinators. Gonna be needed in such a large sprawling district.

Source: DCCC sending field coordinators to OH-18 | Buckeye State Blog

BREAKING: Google To Buy YouTube For $1.65 Billion In Stock

This was just sent out by Google on their press email list, which I somehow stumbled across a few months ago.

Again sorry about the non-political posts, but many campaigns do use YouTube to showcase their newest ad's.

MOUNTAIN VIEW, Calif., October 9, 2006 - Google Inc. (NASDAQ: GOOG)
announced today that it has agreed to acquire YouTube, the consumer
media company for people to watch and share original videos through a
Web experience, for $1.65 billion in a stock-for-stock transaction.
Following the acquisition, YouTube will operate independently to
preserve its successful brand and passionate community.

The acquisition combines one of the largest and fastest growing online
video entertainment communities with Google's expertise in organizing
information and creating new models for advertising on the Internet.
The combined companies will focus on providing a better, more
comprehensive experience for users interested in uploading, watching
and sharing videos, and will offer new opportunities for professional
content owners to distribute their work to reach a vast new audience.

"The YouTube team has built an exciting and powerful media platform
that complements Google's mission to organize the world's information
and make it universally accessible and useful," said Eric Schmidt,
Chief Executive Officer of Google.  "Our companies share similar
values; we both always put our users first and are committed to
innovating to improve their experience. Together, we are natural
partners to offer a compelling media entertainment service to users,
content owners and advertisers."

"Our community has played a vital role in changing the way that
people consume media, creating a new clip culture. By joining forces
with Google, we can benefit from its global reach and technology
leadership to deliver a more comprehensive entertainment experience for
our users and to create new opportunities for our partners," said
Chad Hurley, CEO and Co-Founder of YouTube.  "I'm confident that
with this partnership we'll have the flexibility and resources needed
to pursue our goal of building the next-generation platform for serving
media worldwide."

When the acquisition is complete, YouTube will retain its distinct
brand identity, strengthening and complementing Google's own
fast-growing video business.  YouTube will continue to be based in San
Bruno, CA, and all YouTube employees will remain with the company. With
Google's technology, advertiser relationships and global reach,
YouTube will continue to build on its success as one of the world's
most popular services for video entertainment.

The number of Google shares to be issued in the transaction will be
determined based on the 30-day average closing price two trading days
prior to the completion of the acquisition. Both companies have
approved the transaction, which is subject to customary closing
conditions and is expected to close in the fourth quarter of 2006.

Webcast and Conference Call Information

The company will host a conference call and webcast at 1:30 p.m.
Pacific Time (4:30 p.m. Eastern Time) today to discuss the acquisition.
To access the conference call, please dial 800-289-0572 domestic and
913-981-5543 internationally.  A replay of the call will be available
until midnight Monday, October 16 at 888-203-1112 domestically and
719-457-0820 internationally.  Confirmation code for the replay is
2260624.

A live audio webcast of the conference call will be available at
http://investor.google.com/webcast.html.

About Google Inc.

Google's innovative search technologies connect millions of people
around the world with information every day. Founded in 1998 by
Stanford Ph.D. students Larry Page and Sergey Brin, Google today is a
top web property in all major global markets. Google's targeted
advertising program provides businesses of all sizes with measurable
results, while enhancing the overall web experience for users. Google
is headquartered in Silicon Valley with offices throughout the
Americas, Europe and Asia. For more information, visit www.google.com.

About YouTube

Founded in February 2005, YouTube is a consumer media company for
people to watch and share original videos worldwide through a Web
experience. YouTube allows people to easily upload and share video
clips on www.YouTube.com and across the Internet through websites,
blogs, and e-mail. YouTube currently delivers more than 100 million
video views every day with 65,000 new videos uploaded daily and it has
quickly become the leading destination on the Internet for video
entertainment.

Caution Concerning Forward-Looking Statements

This document includes certain forward-looking statements within the
meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995,
including statements regarding Google's and YouTube's ability to
improve their services, create new business models and content-owner
opportunities, integration plans, the expected timing for the closing
of the acquisition and the plans to operate YouTube independently.
These statements are based on the current expectations or beliefs of
management of Google Inc., and are subject to uncertainty and changes
in circumstances. Actual results may vary materially from those
expressed or implied by the statements herein due to (1) changes in
economic, business, competitive, technological and/or regulatory
factors, (2) failure to receive regulatory approval for the
acquisition, (3) failure to retain the levels of traffic on the YouTube
site, (4) failure to compete successfully in this highly competitive
and rapidly changing marketplace, (5) failure to retain key employees,
(6) other factors affecting the operation of the respective businesses
of Google and YouTube, and (7) the failure of YouTube and Google to
work together effectively. More detailed information about these
factors may be found in filings by Google, as applicable, with the
Securities and Exchange Commission, including their respective most
recent Annual Report on Form 10-K and Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q.
Google is under no obligation to, and expressly disclaims any such
obligation to, update or alter their respective forward-looking
statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or
otherwise.

Let's Make This A Best Seller, Reuters Editor Loses Job Over Coulter Book

A Reuters editor has lost his job due to a pre-approved book he wrote about the lies of Ann Coulter.

On Tuesday, Joe Maguire, one of two editors in charge of markets coverage at Reuters, handed his bosses the galleys of his new book, “Brainless: The Lies and Lunacy of Ann Coulter.” On Wednesday, Mr. Maguire discovered he would have plenty of free time to promote his book, which comes out this week. Neither side in this dispute would say that he was fired.

“There was a difference of opinion about the approval I received to write this book,” Mr. Maguire said. “I thought I had met the conditions, and proceeded accordingly. As a result, I no longer work there.”

Source: At Reuters, a New Book and a Lost Job - New York Times

OSU To Get Huge Wireless Internet Network

This isn't really political but it's definitely Ohio related.

We all know how sketchy these "world's largest" claims can be, but Aruba Networks is dubbing its ongoing deployment of WiFi coverage across the gargantuous campus of The Ohio State University just that. While numerous cities (and even the entire country of Singapore) are moving forward with far-reaching wireless access plans, Aruba's "Mobile Edge solution" will reportedly be the most expansive WLAN by the time it's complete. Although the installation is only partially finished, 1,700 access points in over 28 buildings have already been lit, and Ohio State's IT department has plans to cover all 25 million square feet of the main campus with WiFi.

Source: Aruba Networks to install "world's largest" WLAN at OSU - Engadget

Charlie Wilson: The Write In Campaign

This is the first of many posts focusing on Ohio candidates leading up to the November election.

Early in the political season Charlie Wilson, the Democratic candidate to replace Ted Strickland as Congressman for Ohio's 6th district, suffered a serious blow to his campaign, he failed to make the primary ballot. Only 46 of the 93 signatures Wilson turned in could be verified as residents of his district, falling short of the 50 required to make the ballot. Worse yet, two lesser known Democrats did make the ballot, causing Republicans to see an opportunity. Ohio's 6th had suddenly become a battleground.

Despite not appearing on the ballot Wilson continued to run a write-in campaign with the full support of the Democratic party. Both parties saw Wilson has the Democrats best chance of holding the seat and both parties acted accordingly. The national parties sent over $1 million to the area and ad's started popping up everywhere. Republicans took to the phones and placed attack ads on TV against Wilson claiming he had authorized the dumping of sewage into the Ohio River (not all that uncommon really, though Wilson was outraged when he found out and urged the firing of those responsible). Wilson used the money to sent out mailings with instructions on how to vote for a write-in in different areas and the correct spelling of his name. There was more advertising going on for that primary then was usual for a general election.

Wilson went on to win with 66.15% of the vote despite all the things stacked against him. With his victory the Republicans lost their best chance at taking the seat. Since the primary this battleground district has been mostly quiet.

Text of North Korea's Nuclear Test Announcement

The following is the text of the announcement of a successful nuclear test by the North Korean government. It was released through the government ran Korean Central News Agency.

"The field of scientific research in the DPRK successfully conducted an underground nuclear test under secure conditions on October 9, 2006, at a stirring time when all the people of the country are making a great leap forward in the building of a great, prosperous, powerful socialist nation.

"It has been confirmed that there was no such danger as radioactive emission in the course of the nuclear test as it was carried out under scientific consideration and careful calculation.

"The nuclear test was conducted with indigenous wisdom and technology 100 percent. It marks a historic event as it greatly encouraged and pleased the KPA and people that have wished to have powerful self-reliant defense capability.

"It will contribute to defending the peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula and in the area around it."

Source: Text of North Korea's nuke announcement - Yahoo! News

Is George Bush Starting To Lose It?

Well lose what little he had to begin with. It seems W. is extremely ticked at those around him due to the Republican party's recent problems like the Woodward book and the Foley scandal. Of course now he has North Korea to take his frustrations out on.

Now, however, friends, aides and close political allies tell the Daily News Bush is furious with his own side for helping create a political downdraft that has blunted his momentum and endangered GOP prospects for keeping control of Congress next month.

Some of his anger is directed at former aides who helped Watergate journalist Bob Woodward paint a lurid portrait of a dysfunctional, chaotic administration in his new book, "State of Denial."

In the obsessively private Bush clan, talking out of school is the ultimate act of disloyalty, and Bush feels betrayed from within.

"He's ticked off big-time," said a well-informed source, "even if what they said was the truth."

Source: New York Daily News - Home - Analysis: Scandals stymie W's momentum via AMERICAblog and Taegan Goddard's Political Wire.

Seven Minutes Until Midnight

That's the current time shown on the Doomsday Clock. How will a successful North Korean nuclear test change the clock. Let's look at the previous time changes listed at Wikipedia.

1. 1949 - The Soviet Union tests its first atomic bomb. Clock changed to three minutes to midnight (four minutes closer to midnight).
2. 1953 - The United States and the Soviet Union test thermonuclear devices within nine months of one another. Clock changed to two minutes to midnight (one minute closer, its closest approach to midnight to date).
3. 1960 - In response to a perception of increased scientific cooperation and public understanding of the dangers of nuclear weapons, clock is changed to seven minutes to midnight (five minutes farther from midnight).
4. 1963 - The United States and Soviet Union sign the Partial Test Ban Treaty, limiting atmospheric nuclear testing. Clock changed to twelve minutes to midnight (another five minutes farther).
5. 1968 - France and China acquire and test nuclear weapons (1960 and 1964 respectively), wars rage on in the Middle East, Indian subcontinent, and Vietnam. Clock changed to seven minutes to midnight (five minutes closer to midnight).
6. 1969 - The U.S. Senate ratifies the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty. Clock changed to ten minutes to midnight (three minutes farther from midnight).
7. 1972 - The United States and the Soviet Union sign the SALT I (Strategic Arms Limitation Treaty) and the Anti-Ballistic Missile Treaty. Clock changed to twelve minutes to midnight (two minutes farther).
8. 1974 - India tests a nuclear device (Smiling Buddha), SALT II talks stall. Clock changed to nine minutes to midnight (three minutes closer to midnight).
9. 1980 - Further deadlock in US-USSR talks, increase in nationalist wars and terrorist actions. Clock changed to seven minutes to midnight (two minutes closer).
10. 1981 - Arms race escalates, conflicts in Afghanistan, South Africa, and Poland add to world tension. Clock changed to four minutes to midnight (three minutes closer).
11. 1984 - Further escalation of the arms race under the U.S. policies of Ronald Reagan. Clock changed to three minutes to midnight (one more minute closer).
12. 1988 - The U.S. and the Soviet Union sign treaty to eliminate intermediate-range nuclear forces, relations improve. Clock changed to six minutes to midnight (three minutes farther from midnight).
13. 1990 - Fall of the Berlin Wall, success of anti-communist movements in Eastern Europe, Cold War nearing an end. Clock changed to ten minutes to midnight (four minutes farther).
14. 1991 - United States and Soviet Union sign the Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty. Clock changed to seventeen minutes to midnight (seven minutes farther, its greatest distance from midnight so far).
15. 1995 - Global military spending continues at Cold War levels; concerns about post-Soviet nuclear proliferation of weapons and brainpower. Clock changed to fourteen minutes to midnight (three minutes closer to midnight).
16. 1998 - Both India and Pakistan test nuclear weapons in a tit-for-tat show of aggression; the United States and Russia run into difficulties in further reducing stockpiles. Clock changed to nine minutes to midnight (five minutes closer).
17. 2002 - Little progress on global nuclear disarmament; United States rejects a series of arms control treaties and announces its intentions to withdraw from the Anti-Ballistic Missile Treaty; terrorists seek to acquire nuclear weapons. Clock changed to seven minutes to midnight (two minutes closer).

I figure if the test is confirmed we'll see a change of at least 3 minutes.

GOP Congressman Claims To Have Known About Foley in 2000

Which probably makes Dennis Hastert a liar.

Another Republican congressman knew of disgraced former representative Mark Foley's inappropriate Internet exchanges as far back as 2000 and personally confronted Foley about his communications.

A spokeswoman for Rep. Jim Kolbe (R-Ariz.) confirmed yesterday that a former page showed the congressman Internet messages that had made the youth feel uncomfortable with the direction Foley (R-Fla.) was taking their e-mail relationship. Last week, when the Foley matter erupted, a Kolbe staff member suggested to the former page that he take the matter to the clerk of the House, Karen Haas, said Kolbe's press secretary, Korenna Cline.

Source: WP: Kolbe saw Foley messages in 2000 - washingtonpost.com Highlights - MSNBC.com

BREAKING: North Korea Claims to Have Performed a Nuclear Test

It seems North Korea is claiming a successful nuclear test.

More at MSNBC.

The Columbus Dispatch Endorses Ted Strickland

The Columbus Dispatch has joined the long list of organizations that have endorsed Ted Strickland for Governor.

Ohio is falling behind in jobs, education and optimism. It has been riven by bitter and closely decided presidential elections. More than anything, the next governor of Ohio must be someone who can bridge political gulfs and enlist the help of all Ohioans to make the state a national leader again. For this reason, The Dispatch urges voters to elect Democrat Ted Strickland on Nov. 7. [emphasis theirs]

Though Ohio government has been dominated by Republicans for 12 years, the narrow 100,000-vote margin between George Bush and Democratic opponent Sen. John Kerry in the 2004 presidential election illustrated that Ohio is neither a red state nor a blue one. It is purple.

Such a state requires a governor who can work with red and blue Ohioans, who can cool the fever of partisanship with moderation and common sense. Between Strickland, who currently represents Ohio's 6th Congressional District, and Republican candidate and Secretary of State J. Kenneth Blackwell, Strickland is the one who has exhibited these qualities to a much greater degree.

Source: The Columbus Dispatch - Editorials with a hat tip to the Buckeye State Blog.

Jeb Bush Hides In A Closet... Literally

Oh, Pittsburgh I love ya. When baseball season comes around as a Pirates fan I feel your pain (though you have a beautiful stadium). When you're football team wins the Super Bowl I celebrate with you, even though I hate football. When Sienna Miller calls you "Shitsburgh" I share your outrage, even though I'm two hours away in another state. When a group of your steel workers chase Jeb Bush into a utility closet I am ecstatic.

Florida Gov. Jeb Bush, in town for a fund-raiser for Sen. Rick Santorum, had a close encounter with a large group of anti-Republican protesters as he was making his way to the Duquesne Club, Downtown.

It was about 4:15 yesterday when Mr. Bush met up with the protesters near the corner of Liberty and Sixth avenues. The protesters were marching to join other pickets already gathered in front of the exclusive club, a little more than a block away at 325 Sixth Ave.

Protesters said Gov. Bush blew them a kiss, acknowledging the crowd of about 30 chanting pickets that was made up of United Steelworkers and members of Uprise Counter Recruitment, a tour traveling through 22 cities to support anti-war efforts.

The protesters came closer.

"Jeb, go home," they shouted.

Mr. Bush, accompanied by a security guard and a female aide, made a slow retreat toward the T-station at Wood Street.

"He was quickly getting out of the way and not wanting to engage us," said Jon Vandenburgh, one of the protesters, who also is a researcher for the United Steelworkers.

Once in the subway station, Mr. Bush scurried to the escalators and descended to the mezzanine level, Mr. Vandenburgh said.

By now, Mr. Bush was cornered. He was surrounded by signs that said "Pittsburgh is a Santorum Free Zone," "Honk if you're sick of Rick," and a crowd growing increasingly louder, according to Mr. Vandenburgh.

"We don't want you here," protesters chanted.

Port Authority spokesman Bob Grove said six or seven officers responded to the scene to control the crowds.

He said Mr. Bush had been walking in the area near the T-station and the incident happened spontaneously when about 50 pickets "tailed him and stayed with him and went into the Wood Street station."

About 75 protesters remained on the street, said Mr. Grove.

He said the crowd was asked repeatedly to disperse.

Mr. Grove said a Port Authority canine unit was called in to help with crowd control. Two officers used their tasers to stun two protesters who "were asked to leave, but did not go," Mr. Grove said.

The tasers he said were empty of the cartridges that supply a more powerful charge.

"It was a very tense situation. They were very close to the governor and shouting on top of him."

As a precaution, the governor was ushered into a T-station supply closet and stayed there until the crowd left.

Source: Jeb Bush gets rude welcome