Newsy - Politics

Edwards Trial: Acquittal on One Count, Mistrial on Others

Thu, 31 May 2012 18:50:16 -0500

BY CHRISTINA HARTMAN

A judge declares a mistrial on five counts in the trial of former senator and presidential candidate John Edwards.

But the jury reached a unanimous verdict on one count: not guilty.

It determined hundreds of thousands of dollars wealthy donor Rachel “Bunny” Mellon gave the candidate were personal rather than illegal campaign donations.

And on that one count, some in the press declared it...

WHDH: “...a good day for John Edwards.”

WBTV: “I guess you could call it a day of victory for him.”

Guess you could, except the mistrial on the five other charges means he could be retried, unless the judge dismisses the case.

Edwards faced six charges of campaign finance law violations by using nearly $1 million from two wealthy donors to cover up his affair with pregnant mistress Rielle Hunter. This while campaigning for the 2008 Democratic presidential nomination.

The prosecution had to prove that money qualified as campaign contributions and that the candidate knew he was breaking campaign finance laws. But speaking to reporters outside the North Carolina courthouse, Edwards reiterated that he never thought he was doing anything illegal.

EDWARDS: “While I do not believe I did anything illegal or ever thought I was doing anything illegal, I did an awful, awful lot that was wrong. … I am responsible.”

But what made the prosecution’s case hard, says the Los Angeles Times’ David Zuccino, was proving this was political and not just personal.

“There was no smoking gun, no body, and not even a distinct crime scene. In fact, the defense argued that there was no crime at all -- only a philandering husband desperately trying to hide an affair from his wife.”

Likewise, Sky News explains the defense’s reasoning.

“They admit he was a bad husband, of course he was having an affair when his wife had cancer, but it had nothing to do with campaign finance law.”

In the end the jury couldn’t come to a consensus on five of the six charges; unanimous consent was required on each count to convict him. The New Yorker’s Amy Davidson writes the case was important for court-watchers.

“It asked a jury to think about what we consider the boundaries of the political life to be... This will be an even more critical question in the post-Citizens United era. The Edwards trial put the question in crude terms … but a lot of politicians have a lot of debts as well as secrets that are increasingly inaccessible to the public.”

'Fox & Friends' Obama Video Draws Bipartisan Criticism

Thu, 31 May 2012 14:52:19 -0500

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(Image source: Salon)

BY NATHAN BYRNE

ANCHOR MEGAN MURPHY

Cable news show “Fox & Friends” is catching heat for a four-minute video it aired Wednesday.

It resembled a political ad and criticized President Obama.

Here’s the introduction …

“ … we decided to take a look back at the president’s first term to see if it lived up to ‘hope and change.’”

The New York Times says the video goes on to illustrate changes in the jobless rate and gas prices, combined with sound bites from Obama and his critics.

Fox pulled the video down from the web as the spot drew criticism. Salon says …

“Fox News threw out its usual playbook of merely skirting the line of journalistic ethics today and went all-in … ”

While New York Magazine called it …

“ … a clip that could make Karl Rove cackle.”

And progressive blog Think Progress makes a pointed accusation, saying the …

“ … ad clearly demonstrates, the network’s collusion with the Republican party runs much deeper than the 5pm to 10 pm time slots.”

The comments didn’t just come from places like Think Progress. The flak flew from conservatives, too.

A writer for the Baltimore Sun says …

“ … as the guy who challenged the Obama administration two years ago when it tried to deny Fox News access to interviews and other opportunities offered to the media on the grounds that Fox was not a legitimate news operation, I have to tell you even I am shocked by how blatantly Fox is throwing off any pretense of being a journalistic entity with videos like this.”

Conservative blogger Ed Morrissey writes for Hot Air — if someone is looking for evidence that Fox News intends to campaign against Obama, here it is. Morrissey adds...

“ … that doesn’t mean that outside groups and the Romney campaign shouldn’t consider producing something like this on their own. It makes a pretty powerful argument against another four years of Barack Obama, but that shouldn’t be the job of news-reporting organizations, even when we like the message.”

Fox News execs say the associate producer who created the video didn’t get the go-ahead from the network’s senior executive level.

But one blogger for Politico says that explanation doesn’t quite fix things for Fox.

“For all its blatantly conservative programming, Fox News does a pretty incredible job of swearing up and down that it's nonpartisan. But it's kind of impossible to see how you walk this one back.”

A correspondent for The Daily Beast asks whether this raises the question of how far Fox News will go come election time.

“ … some number of people in the news division spent a heck of a lot of time putting this thing together. Counting employees' hours, thousands of dollars went into this piece of genuine propaganda, and very serious editing work, and then it actually went up on the air before they pulled the thing. So this was a trial balloon, a test.”

TVNewser reports the associate producer who made the video is rumored to have already had a pending job offer from CNN.

Obama and Bush Rendezvous at the White House

Thu, 31 May 2012 12:21:00 -0500

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(Image Source: CBS)

BY EMILY ALLEN

Talk about interesting table topics.

Former President George H.W. Bush, former President George W. Bush, President Obama and the first ladies are all lunching at the White House today.

The Today Show’s political correspondent says, well, this should be interesting.

“What makes it a little more awkward Matt is President Obama is running against Bush policies, he regularly cites them when going after Mitt Romney’s record. Doubt we’ll see any of that heated politics today though.”

The lunch is part of a day’s festivities unveiling George W. Bush’s portrait in the White House. And CNN reports — the White House says President Obama doesn’t expect it to be awkward. In fact, he’s excited.

“[T]here is so much shared experience between so far the men and one day the men and women who hold this office that there is much to talk about...that they hold in common. So there’s not a lot of need to talk about...where they differ.”

The former spokesman for George W. Bush says the feeling is mutual. Fox News has the statement.

“President Bush has been around politics a long time. He’s been around how presidents deal with each other for a long time. He has an understanding for separating the necessities of political rhetoric from the job itself.”

ABC News quotes the White House Press Secretary, who points out former Presidents have a history of forming bonds across partisan lines.

“President George W. Bush had President Clinton to the White House for his portrait unveiling. And I think it is well-established that those two now-former presidents have a good relationship…. I think there is a community here with very few members that transcends political and policy differences.”

And even though it might take a little while, a CBS correspondent says some of these guys actually wind up being close friends.

“Protocol calls for today to be all smiles. Anyway, according to historians, most of the men who have had the top job actually do end up liking one another.”

George W. Bush’s portrait will hang in the foyer of the White House — the official entrance to the executive mansion.

Still No Verdict for John Edwards: What's With the Jury?

Wed, 30 May 2012 22:11:20 -0500

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(Image source: Wikimedia Commons)

BY CHRISTINA HARTMAN

Eight days of deliberations and three delays at the trial of former presidential candidate John Edwards have court-watchers asking — what’s up with the jury?

WNYT: “The judge in the trial says she received a note from a juror. She did 'not' say it was about, what but met with attorneys behind closed doors.”

Fox News: “So far we have heard about scheduling conflicts and an alternate juror supposedly flirting with John Edwards. She is reportedly the one on the right in the sketch showing a little shoulder.”

The judge released the four alternate jurors Wednesday but told them not the discuss the case or read reports on the trial in the event they needed to be recalled. Meantime deliberations in the much-watched trial were once again stalled Wednesday — leaving HLN’s Jane Valez-Mitchell asking...

“Are the alternate jurors trying to upstage the entire thing? … What is going on with this jury? … We all know John Edwards is a pretty boy and an attractive man. Could they be smitten with him?”

Edwards is accused of violating campaign finance laws by using nearly $1 million from wealthy campaign donors to hide his affair with pregnant mistress Rielle Hunter.

Edwards says those donations were private gifts intended to protect his then-cancer-stricken wife from learning about the affair. It’s not clear when a verdict will be handed down, but after eight days of deliberations, The Los Angeles Times suggests the fascination with the jurors is a product of courtroom spectators’ boredom, and impatience for a verdict.

“Reporters and spectators are studying jurors’ body language, trying to determine whether they are at odds and deadlocked — or still slogging through mountains of exhibits from 17 days of testimony by 31 witnesses.”

In order to convict Edwards, the jury of 12 has to reach a unanimous verdict. He could face 30 years in prison if convicted.

Romney iPhone Photo App Misspells 'America'

Wed, 30 May 2012 13:10:41 -0500

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(Image source: CNN)

BY NATHAN BYRNE

The checklist had to look something like this:

1) Clinch the GOP nomination.
2) Release an iPhone app that allows users to customize photos branded “I’m with Mitt.”
3) Watch the ensuing social media support swarm Twitter and Facebook.

Not how it went. Here’s GMA.

“ … the Romney camp a little red-faced after misspelling ‘America’ on the campaign’s new iPhone app.”

The new app certainly got attention across social media sites.

Just not the kind the campaign planned on.

A former George W. Bush campaign staffer tells Bloomberg how he’d respond.

“It’s embarrassing. It’s not necessarily lethal. It’s embarrassing. If I were them, I would figure out a funny way, maybe put out a video or some funny way to poke fun at themselves for having done that.”

There was no shortage of snark as the app gaffe went viral.

A blogger for Pnosker made this point …

“Of all the words to misspell in your iPhone app, America is probably the last one. … Mitt has had his share of gaffes this election season, but this one is moving even faster than the other ones … This just goes to show you that when using social media, you have to be on your game all the time.”

Despite the collective guffaw, a politics blogger for The New York Times doesn’t expect the typo to taint Romney too much.

“The typo is unlikely to become a major issue in Mr. Romney’s efforts to unseat President Obama. But it is an unfortunate reminder that even the tiniest mistakes are magnified in an era when political opposition is crowdsourced globally.”

Romney’s campaign tells The Washington Post it has submitted a corrected version of the app to Apple and it’s awaiting approval.

Romney Secures GOP Nod With Texas Win

Wed, 30 May 2012 04:00:06 -0500

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(Image source: Wikimedia Commons)

BY CHRISTINA HARTMAN

Mitt Romney made it unofficially official Tuesday night in Texas when he reached the delegate threshold to clinch the GOP nomination.

WDKY: “He reached the nomination with a fundraising operation second only to that of his Democratic opponent in the general election.”

Fox News: “Tonight's victory signals the end of the GOP primary fight which means we can look directly ahead to the November general election.”

He’s not the actual nominee until August’s convention in Tampa. Still, that he reached enough delegates Tuesday night wasn’t a surprise. Analysts have been calling him the presumptive nominee for weeks now. And Politico’s Ginger Gibson reports, the Romney camp’s been acting like it too.

“Romney long ago moved into general election mode. The former Massachusetts governor has been intensely focused on the White House and made his campaign about attacking President Obama.”

And part of that attack, says CNN’s Anderson Cooper, is a new strategy, previewed by a web ad the campaign just released.

“The ad's message that President Obama hasn't done a good job to invest your tax dollars in.”

The ad points to Solyndra, a company that declared bankruptcy not long after getting hundreds of millions in federal loan guarantees. But The New York Times says Romney nonetheless...

“...still faces a dual challenge of overcoming tepid favorability ratings and persuading voters why they should support him and not simply vote against Mr. Obama.”

While Texans were voting the primaries that put him over the delegate edge, Romney was at a controversial fundraiser in Las Vegas with real estate mogul Donald Trump. Real Clear Politics’ poll of polls average gives President Obama a slight edge in a general election matchup — 45.6 percent to 43.6 percent.

Texas Tea Party Candidate Forces GOP Senate Race Runoff

Wed, 30 May 2012 00:00:05 -0500

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(Image source: The Texas Tribune)

BY ZACH TOOMBS

An establishment Republican versus a Tea Party challenger in the Lone Star state.

Texas Lieutenant Gov. David Dewhurst grabbed the most votes in his state’s Republican Senate primary Tuesday — but fell shy of reaching a 50 percent majority.

That means he’ll face second place finisher and Tea Party favorite, Ted Cruz in a runoff election at the end of July to replace current Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison.

MSNBC’s Rachel Maddow says the duo has been locked in a battle of big name endorsements — with Dewhurst pulling in the support of longtime Texas Governor Rick Perry.

“By virtue of that endorsement, the lieutenant governor is essentially the Republican establishment candidate … But he does have an insurgent challenger on the right — a former state solicitor general endorsed by … Governor Sarah Palin.”

In a state that hasn’t elected a Democrat to the U.S. Senate in 18 years, Politico says all eyes are on Texas’ GOP primary race. Along with outside interest groups, four candidates have poured more than $25 million into the contest already. And, according to Politico, Cruz has major momentum.

“Dewhurst has solid conservative credentials but it’s Cruz, the insurgent whose candidacy has captured the imagination of national conservatives, who has the backing of Sen. Jim DeMint, [Palin], the Club for Growth and FreedomWorks."

Cruz finished with 33 percent of the vote — that’s 13 percent less than Dewhurst. But The Washington Post says the runoff will give outside groups more time to pitch in support for Cruz.

“... without the race crystallizing into a Dewhurst-vs.-Cruz battle, the tea party organization hasn’t completely mobilized behind Cruz’s candidacy. If the race goes to a nine-week runoff, that tea party organization should be able to help Cruz be much more competitive ...”

If Cruz were able to top Dewhurst, Texas would join Indiana and Nebraska as states where Tea Party candidates beat out well-established frontrunners this year. But The Wall Street Journal writes Dewhurst still has name recognition, his own personal wealth to spend...

“...establishment backing and the fact that he is the likeliest to inherit backers of Tom Leppert, the former Dallas mayor who was running third in the Republican primary…”

The Democratic Senate primary was also sent to a runoff in the Lonestar State Tuesday. That contest will come down to former state lawmaker Paul Sadler and counselor Grady Yarbrough.

Obama the Final Word on Terrorist 'Kill List'

Tue, 29 May 2012 20:40:34 -0500

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(Image source: The White House)

BY CHRISTINA HARTMAN

President Obama is the final word when it comes to a “secret kill list” of wanted terrorists.

It’s a level of involvement The New York Times is calling “without precedent in presidential history.”

The Times article suggests despite his background as a liberal law professor, the president has been aggressive in his approach to counterterrorism.

“...even when it comes to killing an American cleric in Yemen...”

According to the piece, counter terrorism officials put together a so-called “kill list” of terror suspects, and the president personally signs off on every drone strike — giving the commander-in-chief what aides call “moral responsibility.” On MSNBC, Tina Brown says it’s a look at the evolution and education of a president.

“Having to realize that this constitutional lawyer who came into the presidency with so many ideas about closing Gitmo finds himself in a position where he’s surrounded by kill deciders.”

But critics are asking how a Nobel Peace Prize winner can explain such intimate involvement with a “kill list.” White House Press Secretary Jay Carney told reporters the administration always acts lawfully and in a manner consistent with its values. Still, Fox News’ Ed Henry says it puts the White House in a defensive position with his conservative opponents.

“Language former Bush administration officials note is strikingly familiar to the Republican justifications that President Obama ripped in 2008.”
CHRISTIAN WHITON, FRMR STATE DEPT SENIOR ADVISOR: “It certainly represents a 180. So yes, it’s hypocritical.”

Salon’s Glenn Greenwald argues, these kinds of counterterrorism tactics have ceased to become the hot button issue it was during the Bush administration, but that doesn’t make it right.

“...Obama ... has converted what were just recently highly divisive and controversial right-wing Assaults on Our Values into fully entrenched bipartisan consensus. But worse than that, he has put a prettier and more palatable face on extremely ugly policies.”

But Politico’s Byron Tau suggests, the overall effect has worked to the president’s advantage.

“...in three short years, he has reversed the traditional Republican advantage on national security and is now facing an opponent who is decidedly uncomfortable talking about foreign policy or the war on terror.”

Critics Scratching Heads Over Romney-Trump Fundraiser

Tue, 29 May 2012 19:01:22 -0500

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(Image source: The New York Times)

BY CHRISTINA HARTMAN

There’s two million dollars at stake, but Mitt Romney’s decision to fundraise with real estate mogul Donald Trump Tuesday in Las Vegas has both supporters and critics scratching their heads.

On CBS Tuesday, former Reagan speechwriter Peggy Noonan says it looks like a freak show.

“This is a good time for him to differentiate himself from the stranger aspects of the Republican race. (FLASH) One way you don't do it, I think, is do a fundraiser with Donald Trump as part of the freak show aspects.”

Conservative commentator George Will had one of the headline-grabbingest responses on ABC’s “This Week.”

“I do not understand the cost benefit here. … The cost of appearing with this bloviating ignoramus is obvious it seems to me.”

Donald Trump recently resurrected the birther debate over President Obama’s birthplace. Mitt Romney told reporters he believes the president was born in the United States, but BuzzFeed’s Zeke Miller says campaigning with Trump is helping the nominee-in-waiting’s critics paint him as spineless.

“...Democrats see the relationship as supporting a character attack on the presumptive Republican nominee.”

In fact the Obama campaign released Tuesday a new ad called “Two Republican Nominees,” highlighting instances on the 2008 campaign trail when then - GOP rival John McCain stood up to voters who called Obama an Arab. In contrast, the ad suggests Romney isn’t a leader.

Romney explained, he doesn’t agree with everything all of his supporters say, and that he needs to get to “50.1 percent or more” to win. But again, it’s not just Democrats questioning the relationship. Conservative blog The Blaze says...

“It’s fine that Romney won’t distance himself from the sideshow ... but to essentially come out and say, ‘Bare with me while I get the minimum number of votes to get elected’ is the worst way Romney could possibly respond...”

But for The Atlantic’s David Graham, the explanation is simple:

“On the other side of the balance sheet, the cash that Romney collects at the Vegas fundraiser is perfectly legal tender that can feed the campaign coffers.”

Top News Headlines: UN Says Houla Dead Were Executed

Tue, 29 May 2012 17:00:00 -0500

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(Image source: Al Jazeera)

BY STEVEN SPARKMAN

ANCHOR LAUREN GORES

Here’s a look at your top news headlines from Newsy.

The newest UN report on the Houla massacre in Syria says most of the dead weren’t killed by bomb blasts — but were instead executed at close range. CNN quotes a UN spokesperson.

“A fairly small number appear to have been killed by shelling, artillery and tank fire. … But the majority appear to have been the result of house-to-house summary executions.”

Police in Denmark say they’ve arrested two brothers suspected of planning terror attacks and getting training from an Al Qaeda-linked organization. Here’s the BBC.

“Detectives say they are Danish citizens of Somali origin. No details of any planned attack have been made public, but police say they’re investigating possible links with the Somali militant group Al Shabab.”

NATO officials say a U.S.-led airstrike killed a senior Al Qaeda leader in Afghanistan. MSNBC has more.

“He was the second-highest ranking member of the terrorist network, killed in the eastern Kunar province.”

And Mitt Romney is expected to finally clinch the GOP nomination tonight. Fox News reports win in Texas would put him over the 1144 delegate mark he needs to officially become the nominee.

“He’s just 58 delegates short, but those are an important 58 he needs to get. Texas holds its primary today and the Lone Star state has 152 delegates up for grabs.”

Stay with Newsy for more multisource video news throughout the day. For Newsy, I’m Lauren Gores, highlighting the top headlines making you smarter, faster.

Countries Expel Syrian Ambassadors Following Massacre

Tue, 29 May 2012 16:30:00 -0500

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(Image Source: Flickr/FreedomHouse2)

BY DANIELLE CARTER

ANCHOR CARISSA LOETHEN

Following the bloody 108 person massacre on May 25, the United States and several other countries have either expelled their Syrian ambassadors or given them 72 hours notice to leave. Al Jazeera reports — Australia was among the first.

“But the international community is still furious about what happened in Houla. On Tuesday, Australia expelled the Syrian charge d’affaires and another diplomat in retaliation.”

The expulsions come as UN special envoy Kofi Annan meets with Syrian president Bashar al Assad. The Guardian lists other countries that are taking part.

“Britain, France, Germany, the United States and Canada were among those taking part in the global diplomatic action … and Spain, Italy and the Netherlands are due to do the same.”

Israel National News points out the expulsions come as Western officials are reportedly considering military aid to the Syrian rebels. The paper says kicking out Syrian diplomats could just be a first step.

“The move ... would mark a major shift in Western posture on the Syrian crisis and could herald deeper direct involvement in the fighting there.”

But an analyst on CTV says the move was most likely determined before the Houla massacre at the G8 and NATO summits. He says the goal is probably to lessen resistance among Syria’s main ally.

“The real thing that’s going on behind the scenes, and this is largely an effort by President Barack Obama, is try to get Russia on side. We know they can’t dislodge this regime.”

The Telegraph reports, judging from a statement by Russia’s foreign minister, the international pressure might be working.

“The Russian foreign minister insisted there must be no foreign intervention to force regime change in Syria. However, he offered a glimmer of hope to those lobbying for Assad’s removal, saying it was ‘not the main issue who was in power’; the priority was to stop the violence.”

But, a former U.S. ambassador to Syria says that while Syria is at a tipping point, he doesn’t think expelling ambassadors will have much of an effect. BBC has his comments.

“By themselves these are pinpricks that Syria will shrug off. It doesn’t place that much value on having its diplomats in other capitals.”

Pundits Pan Romney Decision to Fundraise With Trump

Tue, 29 May 2012 04:00:00 -0500

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(Image source: Wikimedia Commons)

BY CHRISTINA HARTMAN

When it comes to the campaign trail, it seems there IS a difference between a good surrogate and a not-so-good one.

Mitt Romney is set to appear Tuesday at a fundraiser in Las Vegas Tuesday with reality TV star and real estate mogul Donald Trump... A widely panned decision among the chattering class.

DAVID GREGGORY, ON MSNBC: “...Governor Romney seeking an endorsement and an ally that I think a lot of people have never quite understood.”

SUZANNE MALVEAUX, ON CNN: “...really? I mean, Trump keeps bringing up that birther issue... (FLASH) There are a lot of minuses and maybe only a few pluses.”

But perhaps the most damning reproach came from a fellow conservative — commentator George Will on ABC’s “This Week.”

“I do not understand the cost benefit here. … The cost of appearing with this bloviating ignoramus is obvious it seems to me.”

Ouch. The reason for the bad taste on wagging political tongues?

The Donald recently resurrected the “birther” debate over whether President Obama really was born in the United States.

Trump, of course, flirted with his own run for the White House last year. As for the birther debate, Romney camp senior advisor Eric Fehrstrom told CNN his candidate believes the president was born in the U.S., and that he doesn’t view it as an issue in the campaign. Politico’s Maggie Haberman says...

“That’s not quite a rejection... But it sets up a ‘we can't own our surrogates’ approach that Romney himself will likely use when asked.”

A good prediction, because as it turns out, when asked about it Monday evening, Romney told reporters he doesn’t agree with everyone who supports him. Still — why risk the political capital? In an NBC package airing on WNDU, The Washington Post’s Chris Cillizza hazards a guess.

“I think they're trying to take advantage of Donald Trump's celebrity to help raise them money, to get them more media attention, but you have to be very very careful.”

But while it might be fun to talk about the political repercussions of a candidate getting in bed with a headline-grabbing fundraiser — National Journal’s Reid Wilson tells MSNBC, this is mostly an inside-the-beltway story.

REID WILSON: “I don't think Donald Trump is going to move any voters either to Mitt Romney or away from Mitt Romney. this is one of those side shows that we love to talk about in Washington, DC, but don't actually resonate with the average voter...”

Romney Leads Obama Among Veterans by Double Digits

Mon, 28 May 2012 20:00:34 -0500

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(Image source: Wikimedia Commons)

BY CHRISTINA HARTMAN

Neither candidate has military experience, but a new poll says with veterans, Mitt Romney’s got the edge over President Obama.

Gallup’s latest, released on Memorial Day, finds veterans give the presumptive GOP nominee a 24 percent lead over Obama — 58 to 34 percent.

And why would a poll-watcher care?

WBTV: “Several battleground states have a high percentage of military voters including here in North Carolina, as well as Florida, Pennsylvania and Virginia.”

MSNBC: “Of course veterans will be an important voting group this year because they make up 13% of the electorate.”

But The Washington Post’s Jamelle Bouie, who also writes for the liberal magazine The American Prospect, doesn’t find the poll surprising considering most veterans are older men. Bouie points out, older men are more likely to vote Republican. But, he notes...

“Romney’s 22-point advantage with veteran men becomes an even match among non-veteran men... Which is to say that if Obama can improve his numbers with veterans — a tough proposition — he can cut into a key base of support for the Republican nominee.”

Both Romney and President Obama participated in Memorial Day observances Monday, with Mr. Obama laying a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknowns at Arlington National Cemetery, then later heading to a Vietnam veterans memorial ceremony.

President Obama called the treatment of returning Vietnam veterans a “national shame,” and told current returning veterans they’ll get the benefits they deserve. An NBC package airing on WDIV called it...

“...part pledge and part campaign promise in this election year.”

Meanwhile opponent Mitt Romney spoke at a memorial service in San Diego, where he called for continued U.S. military strength. Video from WJZ:

ROMNEY: “...a strong America is the best deterrent to war there has ever been invented.”

According to the Associated Press, this presidential election will be the first since World War II where neither major party candidate is a veteran. Republican Ron Paul served in the Air Force, but he recently announced he’s no longer actively campaigning.

McCain Blasts 'Feckless' Obama Foreign Policy on Syria

Sun, 27 May 2012 19:57:40 -0500

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(Image Source: Stripes)

BY LOGAN TITTLE

After reports of more than 100 civilian deaths in a Syrian massacre, President Obama’s foreign policy came under scrutiny on the Sunday political talk shows.

His 2008 opponent, Arizona Senator John McCain took to Fox News.

“You know, this is a shameful episode in American history…This administration has a feckless foreign policy which abandons American leadership…”

McCain went on to suggest the president is trying to delay taking action in Syria until after the election. Syria has been experiencing rebellion against President Bashar al-Assad for more than a year now--resulting in a long line of killings.

(video source: Toronto Sun)

The New York Times reports the Obama administration plans to use Russia’s help in an attempt to transition Assad out—something McCain says the U.S. shouldn’t count on.

And he’s not alone. At least not in Republican circles.

Presumptive nominee Mitt Romney’s campaign issued a statement—

“...it is far past time for the United States to begin to lead and put an end to Assad regime… The [Kofi] Annan ‘peace’ plan … has merely granted the Assad regime more time to execute its military onslaught.”

And the Obama camp is fighting back—saying Romney is out of line and hasn’t shown any ability to handle a crisis like Syria.

“...he has come off the sidelines to take a cheap shot at the president’s foreign policy without offering any realistic solutions of his own… These kind of political attacks from Gov. Romney can’t mask the fact that his ideas about national security are reckless and backward-looking.”

And in President Obama’s defense Senator John Kerry told Bloomberg, teaming up with Russia is a much stronger possibility than some believe.

“Russia is very much closer to us on the subject of Syria than people might think...They believe Assad has to go…They have a difference of opinion as to how we might achieve that…”

Haaretz reports Obama and Russian President Vladimir Putin will discuss Syria next month.

Alternate Juror Flirts with John Edwards

Sat, 26 May 2012 16:00:00 -0500

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(Image Source: ABC)

BY JOHN O’CONNOR

ANCHOR LOGAN TITTLE

Looking for places to find a date? Try the courtroom. MSNBC has the details.

“A new report says an alternate juror has been flirting with the defendant, and that John Edwards has actually been responding.”

The flirting between the attractive dark-haired woman and Edwards has come after the judge made an unorthodox decision to require alternate jurors attend closing arguments. ABC reports...

“It has been impossible to ignore the dynamic between Edwards and one of the female alternates … who seems to have been flirting with Edwards for days. ... She smiles at him. He smiles politely back at her. She giggles. He blushes.”

ABC said the flirting became so obvious even Edwards’ attorneys struggled to hold back laughter. The Daily Mail reports...

“...her coquettish smiles across the courtroom have even kept his defence team entertained. While the former presidential candidate has apparently blushingly returned her smiles, the juror is said to be the instigator of the unusual long-distance relationship.”

Edwards’ defense isn’t the only one poking fun at the odd courtroom behavior. A writer for the Washington Post had this advice for the juror.

“There are some times in your dating life when there is no shame in throwing in the towel and getting a cat. If your only options are, say, the Unabomber, an animatronic snowman, and John Edwards, you are better off without.”

A guilty verdict could put an end to the shenanigans as Edwards faces up to 30 years in prison and $1.5 million fine if convicted.

Ukrainian Lawmakers Brawl Over Language Bill

Fri, 25 May 2012 15:30:00 -0500

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(Image Source: MSNBC)

BY JOHN O’CONNOR

ANCHOR NEVILLE MILLER

Put your pens down and your fists up. That was the philosophy of a recent Ukrainian Parliament session that ended in an all-out brawl. The violence erupted over a bill that would make Russian the official language in the Ukraine’s predominantly-Russian speaking eastern region. A New York Times blog reports.

“The debate pitted the lawmakers from the country’s east — where President Viktor Yanukovich is popular and Russian is predominant — against those whose base of support is in the west where most speak Ukrainian.”

Opponents of the bill fear it will hinder the development of the Ukrainian language and provide no incentives for citizens to learn it. Tensions over the proposal have been brewing for years, and MSNBC notes this isn’t the first time the two sides have come out swinging.

“A massive fight against opposition leaders, this is a different fight. This is December of 2010 with chairs thrown and all.”

Voice of America reports — after the fiasco the Ukrainian Parliament speaker said he favored a voluntary dissolution of the chamber.

“The fight showed that the body could no longer work together. (He) called for the chamber to be disbanded and that early elections be held.”

The New York Times reports that most Ukrainian legislators don’t support holding early elections. New elections are already scheduled for October.

Warren, Brown Neck and Neck in Mass. Senate Race

Thu, 24 May 2012 21:15:00 -0500

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BY CHRISTINA HARTMAN

It’s neck-and-neck in the Massachusetts Senate race between incumbent Republican Scott Brown and Democratic challenger Elizabeth Warren.

NECN: “...appears to be anyone's game at this point.”

WCVB: “The Suffolk University poll found 48% backing Brown while 47% support Warren. Brown had a nine-point lead in the same poll three months ago.”

This despite almost a month of controversy over Warren’s claimed Native American heritage. Critics cried foul over the revelation the candidate had identified herself as a “minority” law scholar, though she has said her ancestry includes traces of Cherokee and Delaware Indian. WHDH reports, despite saturated media coverage of that controversy, voters are largely giving her the benefit of the doubt.

“In fact, voters seem to be taking Warren at her word. 49% say they believe she is telling the truth, while only 28% say she is lying.”

But while the Warren camp might view the numbers as good news, The Christian Science Monitor’s Mark Trumbull says it’s looking good for the incumbent too.

“Although Massachusetts has a track record of voting Democratic, Brown enjoys a high favorability rating as a moderate Republican. … Some 58 percent of state voters cite a favorable view of Brown...”

…Leading Politico’s Alexander Burns to predict — this is gonna stay close for a while.

“This could very well be a 2-point race all the way to November, as Brown's personal popularity and reputation for independence run up against Warren's liberal base and the strong Democratic lean of this state.”

Did Pentagon Share Too Much With Bin Laden Filmmakers?

Thu, 24 May 2012 04:00:05 -0500

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BY CHRISTINA HARTMAN

Was it an over-share of epic national security proportions?

Critics say Obama administration officials jeopardized national security by working too closely with the producers of an upcoming movie about the raid that killed Osama bin Laden.

First, here’s WUPW with the headline:

“Conservative watchdog group Judicial Watch says it’s obtained documents that indicate the CIA and Defense Department gave the filmmakers special access including a tour of the CIA’s model of the bin Laden compound...”

Other access, according to those documents, include access to a “planner, operator and commander of SEAL Team 6.”

Kathryn Bigelow, best known for her Academy Award-winning film “The Hurt Locker,” is directing the upcoming film in question.

Conservatives are raising eyebrows over the level of access new documents suggest she might have gotten. Politico’s Josh Gerstein says...

“The documents ... show the White House and the CIA also rolled out the welcome mat for the filmmakers. … CIA officials seemed aware that cooperating with Boal was in some tension with the government’s public line that it was trying to crack down on leaks.”

But White House officials say all the same information was given to the press corps. Fox’s Ed Henry doesn’t seem to be buying it.

“The White House press corps got a lot of information about the bin Laden raid but the administration never made Navy SEAL planners available to us. And I’ve never gotten an invite over to the CIA’s vault.”

The vault Henry’s referring to is a CIA building where some of the planning took place. Pentagon officials say the building was empty when the producers visited. But on MSNBC, a different take from the network’s Jim Miklashevski.

“But anybody at that level connected to SEAL Team 6 would have been a highly, tightly-held secret. And quite frankly, some of us reporters here at the Pentagon were a little jealous they had that access.”

Pentagon Press Secretary George Little says the meeting with the raid’s planner never ended up happening — and that the Defense Department regularly engages filmmakers with the goal of making them “as realistic as possible.” Politico reports, the Pentagon’s Inspector General says an investigation is underway into what was disclosed by Defense Department officials.

Secret Service Director: Scandal Not a Cultural Problem

Wed, 23 May 2012 20:20:02 -0500

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BY CHRISTINA HARTMAN

A one-time mistake or a pattern of bad behavior?

Lawmakers wrestled with Secret Service Director Mark Sullivan in a hearing Wednesday over alleged sexual misconduct with a presidential Secret Service advance team in Cartagena more than a month ago.

SEN. JOE LIEBERMAN (I-CT): “Former agency employees say that sexual encounters during official travel had been condoned under an unwritten code...”
SECRET SERVICE DIRECTOR MARK SULLIVAN: “...the thought or the notion that this type of behavior is condoned or authorized is just absurd...”

Sullivan did apologize for the prostitution scandal that left eight employees ousted and one stripped of a security clearance. Sullivan told lawmakers it isn’t a cultural or systemic issue.

But on-air personalities on Fox Business and Fox News say they’re not buying Sullivan’s line.

Fox Business: “This is not a one-time incident. it was too egregious, too blatant. This is part of the culture.”

Fox News: “From everything I hear this was barely an open secret. That this sort of thing goes on when agents go to Colombia.”

And, possibly beyond Colombia. Senators on the Homeland Security Committee revealed more than 60 allegations of sexual misconduct against Secret Service employees in the last five years alone — including one allegation of non-consensual intercourse.

On top of that — The Washington Post reported both current and former unnamed employees say the unwritten code was essentially “what happens on the road stays on the road.”

But while Sullivan denied those allegations — he wasn’t able to convince lawmakers. Maine Senator Susan Collins compared the Colombia incident to a “cancer.” Still — The Guardian’s Ewen MacAskill suggests — Sullivan himself is likely to be safe.

“Sullivan has only survived so far because he is popular on Capitol Hill, where he is seen as a well-respected, honest secret service veteran. Members of Congress have so far resisted calling for his resignation.”

The Washington Post reported ahead of the hearing that four dismissed employees would be seeking their jobs back.

Romney Revives School Vouchers in Policy Reveal

Wed, 23 May 2012 18:34:03 -0500

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BY CHRISTINA HARTMAN

Mitt Romney strayed from his usual campaign theme about the economy Wednesday to hit President Obama on education.

KCRA has an excerpt of the speech, to a crowd of Hispanic business owners at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Wednesday.

ROMNEY: “Here we are in the most prosperous nation on earth, but millions of our kids are getting a third-world education, and America's minority children suffer the most.”

He told the crowd — that’s the “civil rights issue of our time.” And to fix it — he’s going back through the war chest — with a voucher-style system the AP’s Steve Peoples expects to resurrect the debate over school choice. It would allow low-income and disabled students to choose schools.

Federal aid would go with that student to his or her chosen school. In the speech Romney also proposed mandating “report cards” to mark school progress — calling the current federal evaluation system “cryptic.”

The voucher idea isn’t new coming from a conservative — Republicans in Congress have introduced similar bills. Romney’s camp says his plan would not require any additional federal spending on education. Fox’s Charles Payne says he loves the idea — saying vouchers foster competition among schools.

PAYNE: “Competition is the key. … The interest of school linked to the student. How about that? Rather than linked to the unions, rather than a link to the teachers, how about we get rid of bad teachers, bring if good teachers and we do not paint them all with the same brush.”

But The Washington Post points out, “[Romney] made no mention of how he would fix failing public schools. … He didn’t say whether struggling schools should face consequences if they didn’t get better.”

Business Insider’s Grace Wyler calls the plan “vague” — and questions his choice to unveil it to a small business summit of Latino leaders — asking, “Is Mitt Romney embarrassed about having an education plan?” and saying it was...

“...a decidedly odd audience and location for a speech on education policy. The speech ... was timed to coincide with President Obama's Air Force Academy commencement speech, virtually guaranteeing that Romney's news got limited airtime.”

According to Pew Research — President Obama leads Romney in support among Latino voters — 61 to 27 percent.

Pro-Choice Support At All-Time Low: Poll

Wed, 23 May 2012 18:11:56 -0500

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BY MATTHEW PICHT

The most recent Gallup Values and Beliefs poll shows the number of Americans who identify as “pro-choice” is at an all-time low — and that “pro-life” Americans are at an all-time high.

“In this particular sample--this May--42% of Americans now say they’re pro-choice, 51% pro-life.”

The results have been warmly received by pro-life advocates. Kristi Hamrick of the public advocacy group Americans United for Life told Newsmax...

"There is a growing uneasiness across America regarding the poorly regulated abortion industry and the presence of an abortion mandate … Americans value life, and this poll reflects that."

But skeptics are pointing to another statistic. The same poll shows 52% of Americans still support a woman’s right to an abortion in certain cases. MSNBC says it only reflects political differences, not ideological ones.

“Whereas they might not like the label, they still absolutely believe that access to abortion in this country should be available for women.”

Most of the responses in the poll fell along party lines — but ABC News notes...

“The survey found 41 percent of Independents identified as ‘pro-choice,’...marking only the second time since 2001 that the number of ‘pro-life’ Independents has outweighed the number of ‘pro-choice’ Independents.”

Gallup says that future polls will explore the abortion debate in greater depth by focusing on demographic trends.

Kidnappings in Syria Spark Protests, Concerns

Wed, 23 May 2012 12:05:44 -0500

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BY DANIELLE CARTER

Confusion remains after the kidnapping of Shi’ite pilgrims in northern Syria earlier this week. Euronews describes the immediate chaos.

“The main road to Beirut airport was blocked with burning car tires by friends and relatives of the missing men.”

The missing were returning from a pilgrimage to Iran when their bus was held up in the Aleppo region of Syria. While most sources agree on this detail, their reports differ on the amount and gender of the hostages.

Euronews reports 13 Lebanese men were kidnapped.
While Voice of America says that several dozen women were kidnapped along with 11 men.

However, Al Jazeera says, while women were a part of the group, they were not kidnapped along with the men. That report says the women returned to Beirut early Wednesday. One woman tells reporters about the captors.

“‘They pointed their guns and got into the buses. First they took us to the fields saying that they are taking us away from the shelling, while they took us there to kidnap the men...They said they are the Free Syrian Army.’”

But according to sources, the Free Syrian Army says otherwise. Here’s France 24 with more.

“The Free Syrian Army leader, Riad Al-Asaad, has denied that his group has anything to do with this kidnapping, but it’s not clear that he has complete control on the ground.”

The kidnappings have done nothing to help the tension in Lebanon. A columnist for the Telegraph describes the conflict in this way.

“Lebanon navigates a fragile fault line over Syria, which had troops on the ground in Lebanon for nearly 30 years until 2005 and still has strong ties to Lebanon’s security services. The countries share a complex web of political and sectarian ties and rivalries, which can quickly turn violent.”

There are no reports saying the kidnapped men have been released.

Secret Service Director Defends Agents in Prostitute Scandal

Wed, 23 May 2012 11:00:00 -0500

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BY EMILY ALLEN

ANCHOR JIM FLINK

The Director of the Secret Service says his men never compromised national security or the President’s safety during their scandalous trip to Colombia in April. Here’s HLN.

“Mark Sullivan will testify this morning. He insists that security was not compromised in Colombia last month. Nine agents were accused of partying with prostitutes before President Obama arrived from a summit.”

Sullivan plans to back his men at a hearing in front of the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee. Politico says Sullivan will tell committee members...

“At the time the misconduct occurred, none of the individuals involved in the misconduct had received any specific protective information, sensitive security documents, firearms, radios or other security-related equipment in their hotel rooms.”

But the senior Republican on the committee — Susan Collins — says she is concerned about the broader implications of this scandal on the agency. The Washington Post quote Collins as saying the agents’ conduct…

“ … surely sends a message to the rank and file that this kind of activity is tolerated on the road…This was not a one-time event…The circumstances unfortunately suggest an issue of culture.”

And Wisconsin Senator Ron Johnson told CNN new revelations in the case makes him think this is a much larger problem in the agency than was first indicated.

“What goes on in Las Vegas, stays in Las Vegas. That’s just totally unacceptable. And you know what I want to do, we need to get to the bottom of this thing — not to go on a witch hunt — but really find out, is the secret service secure?

But the House and Homeland Security Committee Chair — Republican Peter King — tells Fox News he’s standing behind Sullivan and the secret service.

“There is always going to be the inappropriate actions, there’s always going to be the people that do the wrong thing, that doesn’t mean there is a culture. That doesn’t mean that it’s condoned.”

This week, the committee plans to look specifically at the Colombia prostitution scandal and long-term problems within the agency.

Clyburn: Bain, Romney 'Raped' Companies

Tue, 22 May 2012 21:00:39 -0500

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BY CHRISTINA HARTMAN

Sticks and stones may break bones — but words can distract a campaign.

With Mitt Romney’s tenure at Bain Capital under the microscope — the House’s number three Democrat used some choice words to describe private-equity firms. Here he is on MSNBC:

REP. JAMES CLYBURN (D-SC): “There's something about that enterprise that I have a problem with. and there's something about raping companies and leaving them in debt and setting up Swiss bank accounts...”

Within hours of Clyburn’s interview, the Obama campaign released a statement denouncing the choice of words. A spokesman for Clyburn later said the South Carolina Democrat meant “rape” as a synonym “for rob or plunder.”

But for critics, the damage was already done.

Feminist organizer Shelby Knox tweeted directly to the congressman: “Rape is rape & applying it to situations outside sexual assault demeans the seriousness.”

While The Atlantic Wire called the comments “a bad call.”
“We assume the debate will shortly return to the actual business practices Bain engaged in ... but not before Rep. Clyburn learns a little lesson in the terribly chosen metaphor.”

Anchors on Fox News weren’t happy about the language either, but the network’s Eric Bolling fought rhetoric with more of the same.

“Clyburn said, ‘rape’ is synonym for rob or plunder. Does that make it better?”
ERIC: “If it is, President Obama is raping the American taxpayer and not giving us dinner or glass of wine or cocktail.”

The controversy comes as critics paint Bain — which Romney co-founded — as a heartless job killer. Earlier this month President Obama’s reelection team released an ad featuring a Kansas City steel plant whose bankruptcy and closing were tied to the firm.

“They were responsible. Mitt Romney was deeply involved. … They made as much money off of it as they could. And they closed it down, they filed for bankruptcy without any concern for the families or the community.”

A new ABC News/Washington Post poll released Tuesday found 54% of voters polled said they don’t consider Romney’s role in buying and restructuring companies a major factor in their vote.

Obama, Romney in 'Dead Heat' in New Poll

Tue, 22 May 2012 18:13:36 -0500

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BY CHRISTINA HARTMAN

A dead heat heading into summer campaigning.

President Obama and presumptive GOP nominee Mitt Romney are locked in a statistical tie according to a new Washington Post-ABC News poll.

And when it comes to the economy — the men are also tied, at 47 percent among voters polled.

Pollsters conducted the survey in April, involving a random sample of more than 1,000 adults. YNN has more details.

“48 percent of those polled think Obama has a better ‘understanding of the economic problems people in this country are having,’ compared to 40 for Romney.”

Romney’s camp has made no secret of plans to focus its campaign on the economy — with the former Massachusetts governor frequently telling voters on the stump about it.

“I wanna get the years of experience in the private sector to help me in Washington. I spent 25 years in business!”

With his business experience playing such a high-profile role in his campaign profile — MSNBC contributor Michael Smerconish says it might be a bad sign for Romney if he is merely tying with the president on the issue.

MICHAEL SMERCONISH: “Given the state of affairs right now, that’s a category that I would have expected Mitt Romney to have an edge on the president. The fact that he doesn’t, I think, is problematic.”

But as the New Republic’s Gregg Easterbrook has said — torture numbers, and they’ll confess to anything.

Which might help explain how a 47% tie in a Washington Post poll can become a 12% lead for Romney in another poll. Here’s Fox News with results from a Rasmussen poll.

“Brand new numbers just out. You asked folks, who do they trust more on the economy. 51% said Governor Romney. 39% said President Obama.”

More than half of participants in that Washington Post/ABC News poll cited the economy as their number one concern.

Cory Booker Under Fire for Bain Ties, Comments

Tue, 22 May 2012 13:55:48 -0500

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BY JIM FLINK

Newark, New Jersey Mayor Cory Booker is in the middle of a hot mess.
Praised and vilified by both the Left and the Right this week.
It all started with Sunday’s appearance on “Meet The Press.”

BOOKER: “If you look at the totality of Bain Capital’s record, they’ve done a lot to support businesses and grow businesses. … This kind of stuff is nauseating to me on both sides. … Enough is enough, stop attacking private equity.”

No sooner had Booker come to the defense of Bain Capital — which the Obama Administration has been calling out because of its links to GOP candidate Mitt Romney — than the left struck back.
Starting with Think Progress, which went hunting for private equity’s support of the mayor, and found campaign finance records from his first run...

“[Bain Capital and venture capital] were among his earliest and most generous backers... In all — just in his first Mayoral run — Booker’s committees received more than $565,000 from the people he was defending. At least $36,000 of that came from folks at Romney’s old firm.”

Now, here’s more of a twist.
Bain supported the Obama Administration — in 2008.
But now, sides with Romney. And The Washington Post reports, the dollars are rather significant.

“...during the 2008 election cycle, employees of Bain Capital and Bain & Co. donated $1.47 million to federal candidates, parties and political committees....”

Two-thirds of that, reportedly going to Democrats according to the Post. All of which has Booker, searching for some solid political ground.
He went on MSNBC’s Rachel Maddow Show to voice his support for President Obama, and she had a pretty pointed question for him.

(Maddow) “Do you think you have to sit out national campaigning?”
(Booker) “I’m gonna continue every single day to pour my heart and soul into making sure he gets re-elected.”

FireDogLake says, that may not be easy.
Because, David Dayen writes, Cory Booker, just got something handed to him.

“Booker’s problem was that he let everyone behind the curtain see who was holding his puppet strings. Ah, the folly of youth.”

Catholic Groups Suing White House Over Health Care Mandate

Tue, 22 May 2012 11:00:01 -0500

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BY MATTHEW PICHT

A coalition of more than 40 Catholic institutions filed 12 lawsuits Monday against the Obama administration. They are protesting a federal mandate requiring insurance providers to give health coverage for birth control and contraceptives. Fox News explains.

“The lawsuits, filed in federal courts across the country, argue that the contraception mandate violates the religious freedom of Catholic institutions. Of course, federal health officials say they adopted this contraception rule to improve women’s health.”

NBC’s Alex Wagner says the Catholic Church’s position on birth control and contraceptives alienates women whenever it reaches the public eye.

“Every time these kind of social issues come up, I think it just makes independent women, married women, working women think, ‘this is crazy.’”

However, Notre Dame University president Rev. John Jenkins told the Examiner this lawsuit is not an attempt to restrict access to contraceptives.

“Many of our faculty, staff and students -- both Catholic and non-Catholic -- have made conscientious decisions to use contraceptives. As we assert the right to follow our conscience, we respect their right to follow theirs.”

The lawsuits focus on the definition of ‘religious employer.’ A definition the plaintiffs claim is too narrow. In a video released to CNS News, Cardinal Donald Wuerl called for the administration to acknowledge the religious nature of all Catholic institutions, not just churches.

“All the administration has to do is continue the long-standing practice of recognizing that our schools, our hospitals, and our charities, are all part of the mission of the church.”

Politico notes that these lawsuits reject attempts at compromise by the Obama administration, including one which gave any religious institution a one year exemption from the mandate.

“During that time, the administration has said it would work on a compromise. But the plaintiffs say that there is no way to compromise on the matter and that the administration has not yet delivered any new policy.”

The contested policy is part of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act.

NAACP Endorses Same-Sex Marriage

Sun, 20 May 2012 13:00:02 -0500

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BY STEVEN SPARKMAN

One of the oldest and largest advocacy groups in the U.S. has weighed in on the contentious issue of same-sex marriage. Here’s ABC’s Good Morning America with the story.

“The NAACP has passed a resolution endorsing gay marriage as a civil right. This comes, of course, almost two weeks after the President announced his support for same-sex marriage.”

The 103-year-old organization’s board members passed the resolution with only two of 64 members voting against. The Washington Post reports this has political implications for the upcoming presidential election.

“The NAACP now presents itself as a counterbalance to the influence of the traditionally socially conservative black church. It can also help establish closer ties between blacks and gays, two of Obama’s most loyal constituencies.”

But with recent polls showing as many as 61 percent of black Democrats oppose gay marriage, some analysts wonder if this may actually divide the party’s base. The NAACP’s Julian Bond told CNN there might be some disagreement, but don’t expect a major shift.

“I think thinking people will think about it and say, ‘Well, I may not agree with it, but there it is. They’ve done it, and I support the NAACP, I always have, and I’m going to continue to do so.’”

In fact, the organization is already well-known for opposing same-sex marriage bans. The New York Times says rather than being controversial, the resolution is mostly symbolic.

“The practical implications of the N.A.A.C.P.’s decision are unclear. Several of its leaders have already expressed support for same-sex marriage, and local branches have repeatedly opposed measures to ban such unions...”

The resolution was widely celebrated by gay rights groups.

Arizona Official: 'Possible' Obama Doesn't Make Ballot

Sat, 19 May 2012 04:00:03 -0500

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BY LYNDSEY GARZA

ANCHOR ANA COMPAIN-ROMERO

Come November, President Barack Obama could find himself omitted from the Arizona presidential ballot.
Arizona Secretary of State Ken Bennett justifies to Arizona’s KFYI his decision to potentially take Mr. Obama’s name off the ballot.

“My responsibility as secretary of state is to make sure that the ballots in Arizona are correct and that those people whose names are on the ballot have met the qualifications for the office they are seeking."

In April of last year, Gov. Jan Brewer admitted she felt Mr. Obama was eligible for office after the White House released his birth certificate. Bennett says his decision came after receiving 1,200 emails in support of an “investigation” and he is not a “birther.” A writer for TPM Muckraker says, this is just a prolonging of the conspiracy theory.

“Bennett caved to a fringe group of activists and writers who believe in a conspiracy theory that just never seems to die no matter how much proof they get. Hawaiian officials have said time and again that Obama was born there in 1961, yet the theory persists.”

The birther battle is being waged with the ranks of the GOP.
Republican party chairman, Reince Priebus tells CNN’s Wolf Blitzer he believes the ‘birtherism’ hype is just that --- hype.

“I’ve said it from the very beginning, I believe the president is an American and it is a distraction. I think that where we need to be focused in on is the economy and the lousy job this president’s done for this country.”

But Bennett is not the first to question the president’s birth certificate. Arizona’s Maricopa County Sheriff, Joe Arpaio, ordered an investigation of the document last year and declared it as a forgery. Arpaio defended his allegations in an ABC interview, arguing this could benefit the entire country.

“This investigation could clear president Obama’s name...”
“It would be beneficial to our country as a whole.”

The Arizona Capitol Times reports Bennett began collecting signatures for the 2014 state election. A writer for Slate argues this sudden resurgence of ‘birtherism’ could be a positioning ploy in the upcoming election.

“It's possible that Bennett believes this stuff. It's equally possible that he's positioning himself on the right side of Joe Arpaio as he readies for a 2014 primary fight. After all, in 2015, Gov. Bennett would have nothing to do or say about the ballot status of Barack Obama. He'll have pandered and moved on, risk-free, with the birthers dispersed.”

Of course, there has to be audience for that kind of message. And The Washington Post reports, within the GOP, there certainly is.

“While the issue is no longer regularly polled, the Democratic firm Public Policy Polling found in March that more than a third of Republican primary voters in Ohio, Georgia and Tennessee don’t think Obama was born in the United States … Birtherism hasn’t disappeared — it’s evolved.”

Arabic Translation of French PM's Name Causes Confusion

Sat, 19 May 2012 00:00:01 -0500

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BY KERRY LEARY

ANCHOR CHRISTIAN BRYANT

France’s newly appointed prime minister Jean-Marc Ayrault is facing the normal challenges of his first days in office. But some technical challenges with his name are overshadowing those problems in the Middle East. CNN is calling it... “electile dysfunction.” Here’s why.

“Well, it turns out his last name, Ayrault, sounds like the Arabic word for a male body part in third person, singular, possessive.... I think you know what I’m talking about.”

If you didn’t catch that, the prime minister’s name, when pronounced properly, sounds like “penis” in Arabic. According to AlBawaba...

“...he would be considered linguistically as well as parliamentarily-speaking to be the 'dick-head' of cabinet. This realisation has left some, who lost no time in relishing in the prudish Middle East's 'awkward moment' when you realize a high profile figure's name is the male sex organ.”

The prime minister’s name could create a constant struggle in the Arab world. They are already looking for ways to avoid actually saying, or printing, his name.

Some newspapers are referring to him by his first name, while television programs are purposely pronouncing it wrong to avoid confusion. The Inquisitr says there seems to be a solution.

“Luckily for the Arabic speaking world the French Foreign Ministry came to the rescue, issuing an edict allowing Ayrault’s name to be “transcribed as written” and saving the sensibilities of female newspaper readers and television viewers from Cairo to Mecca.”

Stormy Weather Marks Hollande's First Day as President

Tue, 15 May 2012 19:00:00 -0500

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A rough first day on the job for French President Francois Hollande.
Rain pelted the president during his “victory parade” after his inauguration ceremony. Here’s Al Jazeera.

“His well-wishers were getting soaked and the new president was getting drenched too...” FLASH
“Francois Hollande says he wants to be a normal president. What’s clear is he’s a president with huge tasks ahead.”

The stormy weather symbolism during the inauguration didn’t go unnoticed in the media, with the Daily Beast noting...

“The deliberately un-Sarkozy new president has promised to lead with simplicity, to be open and close to the people. But for a moment at least, on his very first day in office, wild weather in Paris put those promises to a tough test.”

And the BBC reports France’s outlook is as dreary as the weather.

“Everyone knows France is in a depressing state. Everyone knows that there is more discomfort to come. All that can be hoped for is slow, methodical crisis management. The dreaming time is over. Perhaps to ward off the awful moment, Mr Hollande spent his first day in office a bit like he was on the final day of his campaign.”

Fox News reports Hollande is acutely aware of the problems facing France...

“Hollande admitting that he has his work cut out for him..massive economic work, what he says huge debt, weak growth, and very high unemployment.”

And the hits just kept coming. Just hours later, talks between the German chancellor and the brand-new French president were delayed after Hollande’s plane - on its way to Germany - was struck by lightning. CNN reports.

“We got word that Francois Hollande was on his way to Germany when there was a storm that sort of kicked up and forced his plane back to where it took off from in Paris.”

Up next for Hollande, after the visit to Germany, is a trip to the States.
Euronews reports, it’s a big next step for the new leader.

“Hollande will also be catapulted into the world stage this week with a trip to the United states, where he'll meet Barack Obama and attend G8 and NATO summits.”

Ron Paul Ends Primary Campaigning

Mon, 14 May 2012 18:30:00 -0500

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BY ZACH TOOMBS

And then there was one.

Ron Paul announced his exit from the GOP primary race Monday, removing the last obstacle from Mitt Romney’s path to his party’s nomination. MSNBC gives the details.

“With a lack of campaign funds left and just a few number of primary states, that they’re going to devote more attention to the convention part.”

“They want to have a voice at the Republican convention in Tampa, and I think that’s where Ron Paul and his campaign go forward.”

The Washington Post reports Paul’s eventual departure from the race was no surprise — he never once won the popular vote in a primary contest. But The Post also says the timing of the announcement is odd considering upcoming primary states and recent campaign activity.

“...as recently as three weeks ago he was airing ads in Rhode Island and Texas. Upcoming primaries in Arkansas, Kentucky, and Texas might actually provide fertile ground for Paul. But he has yet to win a single primary or caucus, and his fundraising has dried up.”

Politico reports Paul supporters have flooded GOP conventions in states with where delegates do not have to follow the popular vote. Although the strategy hasn’t given Paul nearly the amount of delegates Romney holds, it has let Paul’s supporters peel away support state by state.

“Paul supporters have orchestrated ‘takeovers’ of several state conventions that award delegates to the national convention in Tampa … in some cases electing many pro-Paul members of state party committees. In Maine, for example, Paul won 20 of the state’s 24 delegates …”

But the candidate himself says creating a stir at the Republican National Convention is not at all his intention. He spoke with CNN a few days ago and had this to say.

“They’ve all dropped out. Why haven’t you?”

PAUL: “It certainly isn’t for the reason of disrupting a convention as you were alluding to. That is not in my plan. That is against my plan. So, I don’t like that even being a suggestion.”

TIME Magazine reports Paul instead might focus on pushing his small government agenda or jockeying for a cabinet position for his son, Rand Paul, in a potential Romney administration.

“While this is surely a disappointing day for Paul’s dogged supporters, they and their prophet have plenty to be proud of. In recent years, Paul’s libertarian vision has gone mainstream … His was a campaign of ideas; running for President was a way to occupy the pulpit. Those ideas are poised to outlive his candidacy…”

Obama Brings Romney's Bain Record to Front-and-Center

Mon, 14 May 2012 16:32:00 -0500

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BY ZACH TOOMBS

After a week mired in talk about social issues, President Barack Obama’s campaign went after Mitt Romney’s record on jobs Monday. Team Obama released a new ad bringing back a golden oldie in the anti-Romney repertoire — his experience at the Bain Capital investment firm.

“They were responsible. Mitt Romney was deeply involved.”

“They made as much money off of it as they could. And they closed it down, they filed for bankruptcy without any concern for the families or the community.”

“It was like watching an old friend bleed to death.”

The Kansas City steel plant at the center of the ad closed in 2001. If the format of this anti-Bain ad looks familiar, well, it’s because it is.

Here’s an attack ad against Romney distributed by a pro-Newt Gingrich Super PAC in January.

“His mission: to reap rewards for himself and his investors.”

“Mitt Romney, those guys, they don’t care who I am.”

And then there’s the one Ted Kennedy ran against Romney in Massachusetts’ ‘94 Senate race.

“They cut the wages.”

“We no longer had insurance.”

“We had no rights anymore.”

“I’d like for him to show me where these 10,000 jobs that he’s created are.”

The Romney camp delivered a quick response Monday, with a campaign spokeswoman saying in a statement, if it’s a discussion on the economy Obama wants, bring it on.

“We welcome the Obama campaign’s attempt to pivot back to jobs and a discussion of their failed record … If the Obama Administration was less concerned with pleasing its wealthy donors and more concerned with creating jobs, America would be much better off.”

As for the steel plant mentioned in Obama’s ad, The Washington Post says Romney’s involvement is up for debate.

“Bain bought GST in 1993. According to a January profile of the takeover by Reuters, less than a decade later, the plant closed, and 750 workers lost their jobs … Romney co-founded Bain, but he left in 1999 to run the Salt Lake City Winter Olympics.”

A deputy campaign manager for Obama told reporters — despite Romney’s departure from Bain before the steel plant closed — ”he set this in motion.” MSNBC’s Chuck Todd argues the ad will likely be just as effective as the Bain Capital ads run in the GOP primary.

“Here’s something that you might have forgotten: remember those ads actually worked. Romney found himself on the defensive and ended up losing the South Carolina primary badly.”

“The ads had been working so well then that the Republican backlash had been simply ‘Don’t run them. They’re hurting Romney.’”

According to ABC, the ad will run only once — on May 16 during the evening news — but will air in five crucial swing states: Iowa, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Colorado and Virginia. The video is part of a $25 million ad buy for Obama this month.

Sunday Soundbite Analysis 05/13

Sun, 13 May 2012 15:00:00 -0500

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BY VICTORIA CRAIG

ANCHOR ZACH TOOMBS

It was this affirmation — made less than a week ago — that spurred much of the discussion on this Sunday’s political talk shows.

“I’ve just concluded that, for me personally, it is important for me to go ahead and affirm that I think same-sex couples should be able to get married.”

Republican Senator John Cornyn took issue with the president’s announcement. He told CNN’s Candy Crowley the president is trying to distract voters from more important issues like jobs and the economy.

“President Obama brought this issue up because he wants to...he can’t run on his record.. Let’s put it that way. So he’s putting up divisive issues to solidify his base and divide the country and that isn’t what we should be focusing on.”

But Democrat Senator Dick Durbin told CNN’s “State of the Union,” the president’s decision had nothing to do with politics. Rather, he made the announcement after careful consideration of his values.

“It was a matter of conscience. He talked it over with his wife and his children. And I know, I’ve talked to him over the years. It’s a difficult issue, a real challenging issue. But I think the president came down on the right side.”

Though social issues dominated Sunday talk, discussion surrounding the thwarted underwear bomb last week was also center stage. Independent Senator Joe Lieberman told Candy Crowley the operation was a huge success and a big win for the United States.

“We not only stopped the planned attack on a US airplane, but we got the device. And the FBI’s gone over it and we now have a very clear idea of how they’ve changed their tactics.”

But, Democrat Senator Dianne Feinstein told “Fox News Sunday” though the effort was extremely successful, the intelligence leak was a quote, “serious mistake.”

“It certainly jeopardizes our ability to relate to other countries, for other countries to help us. And it gives a tip-off to AQAP to be more careful about who they use as their couriers, their bombers.”

The senator went on to say the leak did, in fact, endanger US sources and anti-terror methods.

“The leak, I think, has to be prosecuted. So, the investigation is being done, hopefully it can be concluded and criminal charges will go to the Department of Justice.”

And it wouldn’t be a Sunday show during election season without mention of the veepstakes. Senator John Thune said he’s not ruling out a bid for VP alongside presumptive GOP candidate Mitt Romney.

“I don't think you ever rule out opportunities or options when you're involved in public life and you say you want to make a difference and you're serious about that, obviously, then you don't foreclose options.

Still, Thune wouldn’t fully commit to the idea of becoming the VP nominee, saying he still has a job to do in the Senate and he enjoys making a difference there.

Petition Pushes to Move Democratic Convention out of N.C.

Sun, 13 May 2012 04:00:02 -0500

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(Image source: Wikimedia Commons)

BY ZACH TOOMBS

A push to move the Democratic National Convention out of North Carolina is highlighting discontent within the party. Fox News reports the online movement comes in response to the state’s vote to ban same-sex marriage last week.

“Some 30,000 people have signed an online petition demanding the convention be relocated out of North Carolina. Senior Obama-Biden campaign officials told me that’s not going to happen.”

That petition on Change.org calls for the Democratic Party to “MOVE its convention (September 2012) to a state that upholds values of equality & liberty, and which treats ALL citizens equally.” But a guest on MSNBC says the convention’s location presents Democrats with an opportunity.

“Well, I think it’s the perfect place.”

“... Really opens up a discussion that we should have about the difference between the two candidates on this issue.”

But The Charlotte Observer notes, even before the state voted to ban same-sex marriage, North Carolina presented a political headache for Democrats.

“Labor unions, a core Democratic constituency, are up in arms. Democratic Gov. Bev Perdue isn't running for re-election; Democrats say she was likely to lose … Voters recently approved amending the state constitution to ban gay marriage … And unemployment in the state remains persistently high.”

And the National Journal reports labor unions’ discontent has affected fundraising — hurting the DNC’s attempts to reach their $36 million goal for the event.

“Fundraising was lagging … That led to more pressure on labor unions to pony up. But they would rather spend their money on grassroots efforts and are still miffed that the party decided to go to a ‘right to work’ state and a city with few unionized hotels.”

ABC News reports not only would the DNC take a financial hit, but so would the city of Charlotte. In 2008, the Democrats’ convention brought a $226 million benefit to the Denver area. ABC also cites political analyst Larry Sabato, who says:

“It’s completely impractical to move the convention; there’s absolutely no way you could do it … Too much planning has gone into it. You couldn’t find another place where you could make all the arrangements at this time. Practically speaking, it’s [a] total nonstarter.”

ABC also notes that confining the Democrats’ convention to states without bans on same-sex marriage would drastically narrow the field. 30 states in all have banned it — that includes California, Maine and Florida, where the Republicans will hold their convention.

Romney Talks Marriage, Family at Liberty University

Sat, 12 May 2012 16:30:48 -0500

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(Image source: The New York Times)

BY ZACH TOOMBS

Republican presidential candidate Mitt Romney covered family, opportunity and Christian values in his commencement speech at Liberty University Saturday. But it was his mention of same-sex marriage at the world’s largest evangelical academy that made headlines. CNN has it.

“Culture — what you believe, what you value, how you live — matters.”

“Marriage is a relationship between one man and one woman.”

Delivering Liberty’s commencement speech has become something of a rite of passage for conservatives.

In 2006, the last GOP presidential nominee, John McCain, gave his speech.

In 2007, it was Newt Gingrich.

And in 2010, Glenn Beck.

CBS reports, after Romney was announced as Liberty’s commencement speaker, there was some trepidation among the university’s students about his Mormon faith — something the candidate has seen much of on the campaign trail.

JAMIE GOSS: “I think there’s a lot of mixed emotions. Some people are like ‘Oh, we wish we would have had, like, the Christian speaker come.”

CHIP REID: “More than 700 comments — some critical — were posted on the school’s Facebook page after the selection of Romney was announced.”

The New York Times reports Romney made no reference to Mormon faith specifically but did reference Christian icons such as C.S. Lewis, Billy Graham and Martin Luther King, Jr. The Times says the speech was an important political opportunity for the candidate.

“Mr. Romney’s closely watched speech comes at an important juncture for the presumptive Republican nominee. Even as he moves to appeal to the general electorate, particularly independent voters, he must also solidify his support among evangelical Christians, an important part of the Republican base, many of whom had supported his rival, Rick Santorum.”

The Christian Science Monitor reports President Barack Obama’s recent announcement in support of same-sex marriage has put the issue front-and-center in the campaign for the White House. According to the Monitor, Romney’s stance on the issue will have electoral effects.

“As Americans increasingly and apparently rapidly approve of gay marriage, this puts Romney on what critics call “the wrong side of history” on a civil rights issue, especially among younger voters (18-34), 70 percent of whom approve of same-sex marriage ... But among social conservatives – especially evangelical Christians – Romney is right.”

Is Romney's Alleged Bullying Fair Game?

Sat, 12 May 2012 05:00:03 -0500

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(Image source: Cranbrook Preparatory School / Slate)

BY ZACH TOOMBS

Conservatives jumped to the defense of Mitt Romney Friday — pushing back against a report the candidate bullied a gay classmate. CNN’s Howard Kurtz wonders if Romney should be held accountable for something he did as a teenager.

“It was meticulously reported. Four of the five student witnesses were recorded on the record. But it’s 47 years ago.”

“Is there any statute of limitations on this sort of thing? And it does feel a bit like a cheap hit.”

That perceived “statute of limitations” on holding candidates’ accountable has some in the media hesitating to report Romney’s high school bullying. But Mother Jones says ignoring this story would set different standards for Romney.

“… in the case of presidents their pasts have always been fair game back to the day they entered kindergarten. Like it or not, Romney isn't being treated any differently here than any other presidential candidate of the past half century.”

And on MSNBC, Willie Geist questioned the timing of The Washington Post story on Romney — published one day after President Barack Obama announced his support for same-sex marriage.

“The timing of this piece — I’m sure they’ve been working on it for some time — it is a bit curious the day after.

One more wrinkle in the story — the family of the now-deceased former classmate tells ABC News, it’s not happy with how the story is being handled.

“The family issuing a statement saying, ‘The portrayal of John is factually incorrect and we are aggrieved that he would be used to further a political agenda.’”

On Fox News Thursday, Romney personally responded to the report — in which the Post reports he and a few classmates forcibly cut the hair of a student who later came out as gay.

“I don’t recall the incident, but I’ve seen the reports, and I’m not going to argue with that.”

“I did some stupid things when I was in high school. Obviously, if I hurt anyone by virtue of that, I would be very sorry for it and apologize.”

And a columnist for The American Prospect says blame the era, not the man.

“Thankfully, our society is coming to an understanding about the harm that bullying causes, but in 1965, a young man who seemed a bit effeminate being tortured by his classmates seemed to most people to be utterly unproblematic, even expected.”

But a writer for New York Magazine says the “young and stupid” defense won’t suffice for Romney. He writes the report of bullying sheds light on a longer-term flaw in the candidate.

“The story does give the sense of a man who lacks a natural sense of compassion for the weak. His prankery seems to have invariably singled out the vulnerable … It’s entirely possible to grow out of that youthful mentality — to learn to step out of your own perspective … I’m just not sure he ever has.”

Stand-Your-Ground Defense Fails for Florida Woman

Sat, 12 May 2012 04:00:02 -0500

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Image Source: CNN

BY SAMANTHA KUBOTA

ANCHOR ANA COMPAIN-ROMERO

A case dealing with Florida’s stand-your-ground gun law was decided Friday. A judge sentenced Marissa Alexander to 20 years in prison after firing a warning-shot in what she claims was self defense under the stand-your-ground law. WPTV has more.

“The judge and jury though, rejected her self defense claims under the state’s controversial stand your ground law."

MSNBC has how it all went down.

“Alexander has said that 36-year-old Rico Gray had physically abused her in a dispute on Aug. 1, 2010. She testified that she fled into a garage and got a gun, but was unable to leave the home because the garage door was stuck. She testified that she went back into the house, where Gray was with his two sons, and fired the shot.”

Florida’s stand your ground gun law has come under scrutiny after the George Zimmerman case involving the shooting death of teenager Trayvon Martin. The state attorney in that case is Angela Corey. Her office is also handling this case. U.S. Congresswoman Corrine Brown challenged Corey in the hallway of the courthouse after the sentencing, calling this a case of “institutional racism.”

HLN has the video.

“My feeling is that your office initially overcharged her in this case. This is my feeling.”

But CNN reports the 20-year sentence didn't have to happen.

“Corey said she had offered Alexander a plea bargain that would have resulted in a three-year prison sentence, but Alexander chose to take the case to a jury trial, where a conviction would carry a mandatory sentence under a Florida law known as "10-20-life."

But supporters of Alexander didn’t take the sentencing sitting down..The Florida Times Union reports...

“In a rare courtroom protest, a group of young individuals stood and sang ‘We who believe in justice will not rest!’
Circuit Judge James Daniel ordered the group out of the courtroom and out of the building entirely.”

WPTV reports Marissa Alexander’s attorneys are now fighting for a retrial.

Bill Clinton Called Obama 'Amateur' in New Book

Fri, 11 May 2012 17:00:00 -0500

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(Image source: The White House)

BY CHRISTINA HARTMAN

The New York Post is calling a new book a “Bill Blockbuster.”

The book says former President Bill Clinton called President Obama an “amateur.” Here’s how Fox News describes it.

“Bill Clinton campaigning for President Obama but it looks like he wasn’t always so supportive. An explosive new book claims he … even begged his wife to quit her job as Secretary of State to run against him in the primaries.”

Quoting the book, the New York Post reports, “Bill Clinton unloaded on Obama and pressed Hillary to run against her boss... Obama, Bill Clinton said, ‘doesn’t know how to be president’...”

Former President Clinton has recently been working with the Obama reelection team to help fundraise for the campaign. So the allegation the former president urged his wife to run against President Obama is a subject of suspicion among supporters of the president.

He also just appeared in this much-talked about campaign ad highlighting President Obama’s success in the operation that killed Osama bin Laden.

Conservative author Edward Klein wrote the book. He’s also written books about the Kennedys and about Hillary Clinton.

Which is why MSNBC’s Chuck Todd tells his viewers — what some are calling a bombshell... might actually be bull.

“Ehhh... We’d check the source on this one, trust us. … He loves to write salacious Clinton books... I would say that this story is just unbelievable. One thing we know about Bill Clinton is he generally has good political instincts.”

But Ed Morrissey of conservative blog Hot Air points out — Klein is a former New York Times Magazine and Newsweek editor — and says he thinks the author is the real deal.

“The Clintons will deny the quotes, and they’ll go after Klein as a tool... [Klein’s] no amateur. This new book just might have to be The Official Book of the Obamateurism Series here at Hot Air. It definitely makes my reading list.”

White House spokesman Eric Schultz called the book’s claims “nonsense.”

Obama Caps Off Fundraising Week With Clooney Gala

Fri, 11 May 2012 13:51:33 -0500

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(Image source: Wikimedia Commons)

BY JIM FLINK

It was dubbed “Starmaggedon.”

George Clooney’s $15 million fundraiser for President Obama shattered the president’s personal fundraising record for a one-night affair.

The Wall Street Journal notes, it culminates a week when the president made a paradigm shift in his support of gay marriage.

“I’m sure it will win him some points in Hollywood circles that are traditionally supportive of gay marriage.”

This is the kind of deep-pocketed Hollywood crowd analysts say Mr. Obama needs to fund his campaign coffers. The National Post notes, guests included Jack Black, Robert Downey Jr, Salma Hayek and Barbra Streisand.

“About 150 well-heeled guests paid … $40,000 a ticket to get into the exclusive soirée, the latest in a string of big-money events...”

So what did the select group of guests get for their price of admission?
A few jokes, and a serious warning from the president that he faces a steep uphill climb in his re-election hopes. The Wrap quotes the president from the party rostrum...

“2008 in some ways was lightning in a bottle … That passion that we brought to bear in 2008 is going to have to express itself maybe not in such flashy form, it's going to have to be steady, but we're going to have to keep those fires burning all the way through November and beyond.”

Critics were quick to point out, this week has been full of big-dollar fundraisers for Mr. Obama.

And there’s been a theme emerging... around another presidential pronouncement this week. The one supporting same-sex marriages.

“On Monday, the president is scheduled to appear at a fundraiser in New York sponsored by gay and Latino supporters. On June 6, he heads back to Los Angeles for a LGBT gala, which organizers say quickly exceeded its 700-person limit after the president’s announcement.”

Fox News calls Mr. Obama’s West Coast trip a victory lap in his gay rights announcement.

“By the time he got to George Clooney’s house for the main event, he’d already stopped in Seattle, where voters will weigh in on gay marriage later this year.”

The Atlantic Wire says, if you think any of this week’s Obama strategies were by coincidence, from the Biden announcement Sunday to the Clooney bash Thursday, you’re mistaken.

“Obama's recipe for reelection is melding motivated constituencies. ... This is micro-targeting and constituent corralling.”

Romney Accused of Gay Bullying as Teen

Fri, 11 May 2012 08:00:39 -0500

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(Image source: ABC/Yearbook Library)

BY CHRISTINA HARTMAN

Revelations of high school pranks and possible bullying had presumptive GOP presidential nominee Mitt Romney apologizing Thursday.

It started with this Washington Post story. The paper talked with former boarding school classmates of the candidate — who said he bullied a student presumed to be gay.

“John Lauber … was perpetually teased for his nonconformity and presumed homosexuality. Now he was walking around the all-boys school with bleached-blond hair that draped over one eye, and Romney wasn’t having it.”

The story goes on to say Romney’s friend helped pin Lauber down as the candidate, then a teenager, forcibly cut Lauber’s hair with a pair of scissors.

Questioned about the story — Romney says he remembers Lauber, but he doesn’t remember the particular incident. Still — he apologized quote “if anybody was hurt by that or offended.” He also said he’s a very different person now than he was in high school.

That wasn’t enough for critics. Democratic National Committee spokesman Brad Woodhouse tweeted...

"One of the biggest conversations we're having in this country is about the bullying of kids in school. Romney was a bully as an 18 year old.”

But in a visit to MSNBC, senior Romney campaign adviser Ed Gillespie says, the story doesn’t sound like the Romney he knows.

“Governor Romney doesn't remember that incident at all. It's understandable. It was high school. People who know Governor Romney and know him and his family know that he is a caring, compassionate person.”

Anchors for KTTV are divided — with one saying she’s not buying it when Romney says he doesn’t remember it.

WOMAN: “He could have done it then. Because usually you’d say, absolutely not true. I wouldn’t have done that.”
MAN: “This is such a stupid thing to come up 40 years later, I mean geez.”

Speaking of timing — The Huffington Post’s Sam Stein suggests there’s a reason the candidate had to address the story.

“...with the story suggesting latent homophobia in an adolescent Romney ... the piece reverberated. … Clearly, social issues are posing a problem for Romney.”

Stein points out — it was just Wednesday President Obama announced a personal endorsement of gay marriage in an interview with ABC.

Romney told Fox News Radio he never thought Lauber was gay. Romney’s campaign called the stories “exaggerated and off base.”

Could Greece Leave the Eurozone?

Thu, 10 May 2012 04:00:02 -0500

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(Image source: Wikipedia)

BY NIELS SCHACK NORGAARD

ANCHOR CHRISTINA HARTMAN

Greece remains in political disarray four days after its general election. And now, a 5.2 billion-euro bailout from the European Union is at risk because the vote is seen as a referendum on austerity measures that were part of Europe’s bailout package.

Economics professor Christopher Pissarides tells Sky News the situation in Greece could hardly be worse.

“The way I see the situation now, it is so bad, I cannot imagine it being worse, because it has suddenly introduced so much uncertainty into something that was agreed before by the two main parties”

The two majority parties who had led a coalition government lost about half of their seats. Those two parties agreed to the bailout — AND austerity measures — in the first place. In Germany, chancellor Angela Merkel immediately reacted, saying Greece has to follow the austerity measures imposed by the EU.

MERKEL: “Of course it’s of the utmost importance that the programs that we have agreed with Greece will be continued.”

But John Taylor, CEO of the hedge fund FX Concepts, tells Bloomberg he’s certain the Greeks will turn their backs on Merkel’s demands — and leave the euro zone.

Interviewer: “So, June, July, August – we’re talking about an exit from the euro as soon as that?”
John Taylor: “Yes, exactly. This summer I think it’s very likely. The Europeans aren’t going to give them the money, the IMF aren’t going to give them the okay. They will be out of money in June.”

Polls have shown the Greek population doesn’t want to leave the euro zone. But at the same time the Greeks don’t want to adjust European Union’s demands.

Alexis Tsipras, who leads the anti-bailout party Syriza (pronouncer), which nearly quadrupled its representation in the Greek parliament, failed to gain enough support from other Greek political parties to form a coalition government Wednesday. He handed that responsibility back to Greece’s president.

According to euronews, this means…

“Opinion now seems near unanimous that a second roll of the electoral dice is needed to break the deadlock. However, some complain that a 25 million euro a pop election is expensive in the days of austerity.”

Late on Wednesday, the European Financial Stability Facility announced they would not release a full bailout to Greece. The EFSF will withhold one billion of the 5.2 billion euros because of the instability in Greece.

Obama Endorses Gay Marriage

Wed, 09 May 2012 20:44:17 -0500

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Image source: (Wikimedia Commons)

BY GINA COOK

ANCHOR CHRISTINA HARTMAN

Once evolving — now — an endorsement.
President Obama announced Wednesday he personally supports gay marriage. Take a look at the statement he made to ABC.

“...for me personally it is important for me to go ahead and affirm that I think same sex couples should be able to get married.”

Obama’s announcement comes just after North Carolina banned gay marriage and civil unions. An NBC contributor says the announcement is still an attempt to endorse the issue without losing those Southern votes.

“He actually still drew a line here today. He talked about his personal support saying he believes same sex marriage should be legal, but he also said it should be up to the states.”

Others say now that Obama’s position is clear — social conservatives won’t hesitate to use it against him. MSNBC’s Chris Matthews says the announcement is good for the gay community, but “earth-shaking”...

Chris Matthews: “The gates are opening of wolves coming out for this, the Karl Roves, the people who will use this against the president in states like North Carolina and in Pennsylvania.”

Just days ago Vice President Joe Biden publicly endorsed gay marriage. Some say that put pressure on the president.

The Washington Post says it has at least something to do with 1 in 6 of the president’s top campaign donors being gay.

The L.A. Times says Obama’s declaration thrilled gay donors...

“The announcement ... left in tears Washington attorney Karen K. Dixon, who, along with her partner Dr. Nan Schaffer, hosted an LGBT-focused 40-person dinner for the president at their home in February that raised $1.4 million for the campaign.”

But some question the timing of the announcement. Business Insider’s Joe Wiesenthal writes...

“Obama's evolution is telegraphed from a million miles away, and everyone has to pretend that it's genuine, and not a matter of mere political expediency.”

Senior administration officials say Obama had plans to declare his support of gay marriage before this September’s Democratic National Convention. Biden’s statement simply sped up the process. Then again, The Wall Street Journal says even Democrats are divided on the issue...

“...aides have said they intend to argue against including gay marriage as part of the platform by making the case that not all democrats seeking election share that position, which could hurt them in some states and congressional districts.”

North Carolina Bans Gay Marriage: Eyes Turn to Obama Admin.

Wed, 09 May 2012 14:10:55 -0500

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(Image Source: Wikimedia Commons)

BY VICTORIA CRAIG

North Carolina became the 30th state to constitutionally ban same-sex marriage Tuesday. HLN outlines the results of the referendum.

“61 percent supported changing the state’s constitution. Only a marriage between a man and a woman will be recognized now. Critics say it could affect things like child custody and domestic violence cases.”

With so many states weighing in, the media’s focus has turned to President Obama — and his opinion on the issue. The Christian Science Monitor explains why the issue complicates the president’s reelection efforts.

“Caught between the swing voters who could tilt the presidential election and his more-liberal base, President Obama has so far resisted pressure to endorse same-sex marriage even as he has continued to solicit gay donors aggressively.”

But it’s not just voters who may have muddied the waters for the president. His own VP makes things a little murkier. Here’s Tampa Bay’s WTVT.

“Vice President Joe Biden came out in support of it on Sunday talk shows. But the official White House response has been a little bit more muddled. President Obama said he was disappointed with the vote.”

If the president sides with voters who support same-sex marriage, he alienates the part of his voting bloc that’s opposed. An MSNBC contributor explains how the president is walking a political tightrope while he says his views on the issue are quote, “evolving.”

“You may move from one to the other, but until you move to yes, you’re no. Until you say I’m for it, you’re against it. Gay community knows that. Evolving is a way for the president to sound like there’s sort of an active mental process going on. What’s the big hurdle? Politics.”

But it’s not all politics. There’s a business angle to this story as well — the Democratic National Convention will be held in Charlotte, North Carolina in a matter of months. Fox Business explains how that could complicate things for Democrats.

“Swing voters clearly don’t support gay marriage, and as you point out, an economic boycott is likely to result in North Carolina in Charlotte because of the referendum.”

And North Carolina could be key for the Obama camp come November? Bloomberg reports the president carried the state by a fraction of one percent in 2008 — the first time the state went Democratic since 1976.

Texas Inmate Gets 41 Percent of Democratic Vote in West VA

Wed, 09 May 2012 13:06:14 -0500

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(Image Source: The Beaumont Enterprise)

BY BREANA JONES

ANCHOR CHRISTINA HARTMAN

West Virginia voters sent a pretty strong message to President Obama in that state’s Democratic presidential primary Tuesday night. Here’s MSNBC with the details.

“A Texas prison inmate won four out of ten votes in West Virginia’s Democratic Primary. Keith Judd is doing time for making threats at the University of New Mexico, considering his opponent was President Obama, Republicans jumped on the news.”

And jump they did. Republicans point to Judd’s 41 percent of the vote as proof President Obama is unpopular in America. Politico has a list of 10 facts about Keith Judd. Here are a few highlights.

“Member, Federation of Super Heroes ... Says he has run for president in every election since 1996 … finished third in the 2008 Idaho Democratic Primary with 734 votes … Lists his religion as Rastafarian-Christian.”

Judd got on the West Virginia ballot by sending in $2,500 and an announcement. But actually choosing a convict over the leader of the free world? CNN analysts were in shock on “Starting Point” Wednesday morning.

Will Cain: “He lost to a guy in federal prison, out of state, in Texas, no campaign. Hey, I don’t know what it says Roland, but it says something.”
Solead O’Brien: “It certainly does.”
Roland Smith: “I’ll tell you what it says, it says folks in West Virginia, y’all have lost your mind. That’s exactly what it says.”

West Virginia law says a candidate only needs 15 percent of the vote to have at least one delegate at the national convention. The Charleston Gazette says the issue has stumped one state Democratic Party official.

“One issue, he said, is that no one has filed to be a Judd delegate to the national convention, and it is unclear how the party would designate such a delegate or delegates, or if anyone would even agree to accept the appointment.”

The Washington Post says Mr. Obama’s unpopularity in West Virginia is no surprise, even considering his opponent. It points to another state’s results for more telling information.

“Potentially more interesting are the results from North Carolina, where 20 percent of Democratic primary voters chose “no preference” over the president.”

Mr. Obama did win 59% of the vote in West Virginia Democratic primary, and 79.2% of the balance of the Democratic vote in North Carolina.

Romney: 'I'll Take a Lot of Credit' for Auto Recovery

Wed, 09 May 2012 07:10:29 -0500

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(Image Source: Wikimedia Commons)

BY CHRISTINA HARTMAN

He once called for letting Detroit go bankrupt.

Now — Mitt Romney says he’d “take a lot of credit” for the auto industry’s comeback. He sat down with Northeast Ohio’s WEWS.

ROMNEY: "I pushed the idea of a managed bankruptcy. And finally, when that was done, and help was given, the companies got back on their feet. So I'll take a lot of credit for the fact that this industry's come back."

The GOP’s presumptive nominee has been an outspoken opponent of the federal bailouts of General Motors and Chrysler.

In this November 2008 New York Times op-ed — the former Massachusetts governor said a bailout would “virtually guarantee” the company’s demise. He called for a managed bailout.

To be fair — the “Let Detroit Go Bankrupt” headline wasn’t his —

— according to The Times’ Ashley Parker — Times editors wrote the headline.

But GM and Chrysler, of course, eventually got a bailout — and Romney accused the Obama and Bush administrations of kowtowing to auto worker unions. So now that Romney’s claiming credit for the American auto industry’s turnaround — critics are going on the attack.

“Never mind this column he wrote when the U.S. auto industry was on its knees. Now he’s taking credit for President Obama’s policy. Is this a case of grand theft auto?

MSNBC

“A spokesperson for President Obama says that Romney's trying to fool people because he really opposed the bailout.”

HLN

Then again, it’s not all roses and rainbows for supporters of the bailouts. The Hill notes — the federal government still owns a percentage of GM’s shares.

“Critics ... note the federal government is unlikely to recover its outstanding $1.9 billion investment in Chrysler and its investments in GM beyond the $6.7 billion loan it gave the company, which includes purchasing $50 billion in shares of the company.”

The car companies were put through bankruptcy — but the question of who would foot the bill to keep the companies alive during restructuring was a sticking point. Romney thought it should be the private sector.

Despite the controversy over the credit-claiming — The Los Angeles Times reports Romney hasn’t said anything more. That despite a campaign stop in Michigan Tuesday.

Half of Americans Support Legalizing Gay Marriage

Wed, 09 May 2012 07:00:05 -0500

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(Image source: OCWeekly)

BY VERONICA POLIVANAYA

ANCHOR ZACH TOOMBS

A new poll shows Americans are almost evenly split on the issue of gay marriage. An anchor with WNYW has the details.

“The Gallup poll finds 50 percent believe it should be legal while 48 percent think it should not be allowed.”

The finding marked the second time in Gallup’s history that at least half supported same-sex marriage. The poll revealed a dip in support from 2011, when 53 percent were in favor. The results come on the heels of Vice President Joe Biden’s remarks on NBC’s “Meet the Press” Sunday.

JOE BIDEN: “I am absolutely comfortable with the fact that men marrying men, women marrying women and heterosexual men and women marrying another are entitled to the same exact rights.”

The next day President Obama’s education secretary endorsed marriage equality, becoming the third cabinet member to publicly declare a stance on the issue. The president himself is in favor of same sex civil unions but hasn’t declared support for marriage rights. The New York Times editorial page staff urges the president to pick a side.

“By failing to go the next step and actually say that he supports the freedom to marry as Mr. Biden does and as polls show nearly a majority of Americans do, Mr. Obama risks dampening the enthusiasm of allies without gaining the support of equality’s opponents.”

But an opinion blogger for the Washington Post says the decision may be out of the president’s hands.

GREG SARGENT: “Several people close to the White House said the episode has exposed internal tensions within Obama’s team between those who want the president to say he favors same-sex marriage before the November election and others who worry about a political backlash if he does.”

An MSNBC contributor says Obama has already done more for gay and lesbian Americans than any president in history—employing openly gay elected officials and repealing “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell”, for instance.

KELI GOFF: "Is there room for him to evolve? Absolutely. But he’s not the only one who has room to improve when it comes to tolerance.”

Opinions on the gay marriage issue have certainly changed in the last 15 years. When Gallup first asked the question in 1996, 27 percent supported it, while 68 were opposed.

Senate Blocks Student Loan Interest Rate Freeze

Tue, 08 May 2012 23:15:00 -0500

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(Image Source: ForgiveMyStudentLoans.com)

BY MEREDITH BALDWIN

ANCHOR ZACH TOOMBS

Gridlock in the U.S. Senate over student loans. Both sides say, they want to keep interest rates from doubling in July. But they can’t agree on how to make it happen. Here’s Central Florida News 13:

“Democrats and Republicans disagree over how to pay for the freeze, which is estimated to cost $6 billion. Democrats want to eliminate a corporate tax break, while Republicans want to pull funds from a preventative health care fund set up under the health reform law.”

After hours of debate and several proposals, the Senate voted 52 to 45, falling 8 votes shy of the 60-votes needed to start debating the measure. That bill would’ve kept interest rates from doubling from 3.4 percent to 6.8 percent in July. Something both sides want.

CNN notes, without an agreement, that’s exactly what will happen. At a time, when young people are already feeling the pinch of a tight economy.

“Students are paying close attention to the issue. With unemployment just below 24% for teenagers and 14% for those ages 20 to 24, more young people are going back to school or staying in school...”

But MSNBC reports, despite having the same goal in mind, once again, partisanship kept Congress from making progress.

“There was a lot of grappling over the side issues and not necessarily focusing on how to get to the end point which is to keep interest rates stable, lest they go up in July on a vulnerable population with the kids looking for work and saddled with this debt.”

And while political observers expect the student loan issue to be an election-year battle — Time’s Mark Kantrowitz and Mark Schneider say the whole debate over interest rates is misguided.

“Changes in the interest rates on student loans do not reduce the amounts students borrow. … The real problem is that students are taking on too much debt, and politicians can help fix that by providing more information about the links between college majors, graduation rates, education debt and employment outcomes.”

Israeli Prime Minister Changes Direction on 2013 Election

Tue, 08 May 2012 18:44:45 -0500

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(Image Source: Wikimedia Commons)

BY VICTORIA CRAIG

A turn of events in Israel after the nation’s prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced plans to move the country’s elections up by more than a year. West Palm Beach’s WPTV has details of the announcement.

“Israel's prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu announcing a general election is being held in just four months. Netanyahu said he wanted to avoid pressure from coalition partners who he believed were beginning to destabilize the government.”

That announcement happened Monday. But Tuesday, Netanyahu stands with the opposition leader...making a surprise announcement – a reversal on a decision he made less than 24 hours before. CNN reports.

“Two former rivals in Israel have come together to form an unusual unity government. The new alliance between Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s Likud party and the Kadima party, will put off elections until late next year.”

Both leaders say the new coalition government will be better for Israel in the long-run. But CBS calls the quick change of heart a stunning reversal. Al Jazeera reports many in the nation say Netanyahu has just pulled off a quote, “master stroke.”

“The two men appeared in front of the cameras Tuesday playing up, quote ‘unity for Israel.’ Mofaz going so far as to say the new coalition government would help his party make up for previously missed opportunities.”

But a writer for the Israeli newspaper Haaretz criticizes the nation’s leader — and wonders why Netanyahu would give up an election likely to keep him in power, saying it was about...

“...avoiding risks at all costs. Netanyahu preferred the 18 months of certainty a unity government provides over going to an elections, despite polls that predicted an easy win.”

Still, a correspondent for the BBC explains this new deal allows Netanyahu to quote, “dominate Israeli politics.”

“The coalition now has 94 out of 120 seats in the Israeli Knesset. So that means there’s no real opposition or certainly not a powerful one.”

The new coalition government could also influence a decision from Israel to strike out against Iran over its alleged nuclear weapons program.

Top News Headlines: Sen. Lugar in Tough Primary Battle

Tue, 08 May 2012 17:20:46 -0500

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(Image source: Richard G. Lugar)

BY STEVEN SPARKMAN

Here are your top news headlines from Newsy.

Three states are holding Republican primaries today. There are contests in Indiana, West Virginia and North Carolina. But Indiana is getting the most media attention, because a six-term Senator could lose his seat. CNN has the story.

“Senator Dick Lugar of Indiana being challenged by the state’s treasurer. His name is Richard Mourdock. He’s backed by many who are in the Tea Party movement. … And he’s been chipping away at Lugar’s lead.”

The U.S. Border Patrol issued its first new national strategy in eight years. A Fox News analyst has the details.

“The new approach, according to the Associated Press, uses intelligence to identify repeat crossers, identify why they keep coming and what risk they pose to national security.”

Interpol announced it has issued an arrest warrant for the vice president of Iraq, who is accused of running a death squad. Al Jazeera has more.

“Tariq al-Hashemi is suspected of guiding and paying for attacks inside Iraq. These are serious allegations against a man already facing an arrest warrant issued by Iraqi authorities.”

And the author of the wildly popular children’s book “Where the Wild Things Are” has died, after complications following a stroke. Here’s CBS.

“Sendak took generations of children on a wild rumpus along with Max, a little boy who was sent to his room without supper. Maurice Sendak was 83 years old.”

Stay with Newsy for more multisource video news throughout the day. For Newsy, I’m Megan Murphy, highlighting the top headlines making you smarter, faster.

Romney Blasted for Silence on Voter's Obama Treason Charges

Tue, 08 May 2012 15:46:32 -0500

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(Image source: MSNBC)

BY CHRISTINA HARTMAN

Taking questions can be dangerous business on the campaign trail. Mitt Romney learned that Monday afternoon in Ohio — when he took a question from a town hall attendee — who said this:

(VIA KABC): “We have a president right now that is operating outside the structure of our Constitution. … I do agree he should be tried for treason.”

The woman didn’t specify why — but she went on to ask how Romney would “restore balance between the three branches of government.” The presumptive GOP nominee answered that question — but never addressed the woman’s statement President Obama should be tried for treason.

And just like that — the headlines wrote themselves — with critics lambasting the candidate’s silence.

Romney DID later clarify when asked by reporters. CNN has the video.

ROMNEY: “I don’t correct all the questions that get asked of me. I obviously don’t agree that he should be tried.”

But the damage — at least in the eyes of Romney’s critics — was already done.

As far as cable news coverage goes, the story got the most airtime on MSNBC according to closed caption searches.

ED SCHULTZ: “Mitt Romney failed another test of leadership.”

CHUCK TODD: “This is not how you answer certain questions.”

DAVID CORN: “We're still waiting to see any act or moment of courage from Mitt Romney on this whole campaign.”

Obama’s campaign released a statement seizing on the incident and citing what it calls Romney’s lack of leadership. Many political observers are contrasting the former Massachusetts governor’s response with a widely-praised reaction by 2008 GOP nominee John McCain — who defended opponent Barack Obama.

WOMAN: “He’s an Arab.” …
MCCAIN: “No ma’am. He’s a decent, family man, citizen who I just happen to have disagreements with on fundamental issues.”

But in a piece for New York Magazine — Dan Amira writes — Romney really only had two choices — one of which was correcting and alienating a voter.

“...nobody is asking Romney to correct all the questions asked of him, which would actually be kind of a dickish thing to do. For example, telling a voter, ‘Actually, ma’am, the new French president's name is pronounced oh-lond,’ would be a poor decision. But Romney should feel free to make exceptions in cases like today's.”

Top News Headlines: CIA Foils Bomb Plot

Tue, 08 May 2012 11:42:37 -0500

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(Image source: ABC)

BY STEVEN SPARKMAN

Here are your top news headlines from Newsy.

U.S. officials say intelligence agencies foiled a plot to blow up an airliner bound for America, following a covert operation in Yemen. The new bomb was designed to slip past airport scanners. CNN explains.

“The explosive device is similar to the one that was used by the so-called ‘underwear bomber’ back on Christmas Day of 2009, only this time more sophisticated and harder to detect.”

In an email to his supporters last night, Rick Santorum urged them to get behind Mitt Romney. This comes after a heated campaign in which Santorum repeatedly told voters Romney wasn’t conservative enough. HLN has more.

“But now Santorum says that he has a better idea of where Romney stands on the issues. Now, Santorum also says that they agreed President Obama must be defeated and that Romney needs all hands on deck to achieve that goal.”

Bank of America began sending letters to homeowners saying the bank is willing to forgive a portion of the principal balance on mortgages. The move is the result of a settlement with state governments earlier this year. Here's Fox News.

“The average amount that they’re willing to forgive — $150,000. The reduction for qualifying homeowners would amount to monthly savings up to 35 percent.”

And Greece came one step closer to another election, after the head of the winning New Democracy party failed to form a coalition government. Here’s euronews.

“He tried talking to Alexis Tsipras whose radical Left Coalition scored second place in Sunday’s vote, but the young politician is staunchly anti-austerity.”

Stay with Newsy for more multisource video news throughout the day. For Newsy, I’m Blake Hanson, highlighting the top headlines making you smarter, faster.

Is the Obama Administration Pivoting on Same-Sex Marriage?

Mon, 07 May 2012 21:00:09 -0500

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(Image source: Wikimedia Commons)

BY GILLIAN STEDMAN

ANCHOR ANA COMPAIN-ROMERO

Education Secretary Arne Duncan has joined Vice President Joe Biden in backing same sex marriage. MSNBC’s Morning Joe asked the question on Monday and got a simple answer.

“Do you believe that same sex men and women should be able to get legally married in the United States’, ‘oh, come on, are you going to start there?’

DUNCAN: ‘Yes I do.”

In just two days, Duncan becomes the second member of the Obama administration to speak out in favor of gay marriage. On Sunday, NBC’s David Gregory asked Biden if his views on same sex marriage had “evolved.”

“I am absolutely comfortable with the fact that men marry men, women marry women and heterosexual men and women marry men and women are entitled to the same exact rights.”

Some are speculating the White House is now taking a new, more supportive stance on gay marriage.
The Christian Science Monitor reports....

“It’s possible, some analysts suggest, that Obama is genuinely uncomfortable with the concept. But there’s a wider assumption that he’s holding back for political reasons, even as more states legalize it and polls show steady growth in public support, now at a solid majority.”

But Obama political strategist David Axelrod denies any shift in policy. The Guardian quotes Axelrod saying, Biden’s comments are...

“...entirely consistent with the president’s position, which is that couples who are married, whether they are gay or heterosexual couples are entitled to the very same liberties."

Gay-rights advocate John Aravosis says Mr. Obama is sending out mixed messages.

“What really happens is, once again, people on the left feel like the president is playing games with our civil rights and people on the right think he’s for gay marriage anyway.”

This recent debate comes as North Carolina prepares to vote on an amendment to the state’s constitution on Tuesday, which would ban same sex marriages.

Europe's Elections Prompt Austerity Debate

Mon, 07 May 2012 21:00:01 -0500

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(Image source: euronews)

BY STEVEN SPARKMAN

ANCHOR CHRISTINA HARTMAN

Sunday’s elections in France and Greece showed voters aren’t fans of the EU’s austerity policies.

France’s Socialist party now holds the presidency for the first time in nearly four decades. (Video source: Al Jazeera)

And the Greek vote shattered the two main parties as voters fled to smaller, anti-austerity fringe parties. (Video source: The Guardian)

That has analysts asking: what does this mean for EU austerity? Some see doom and gloom, like Fox News’s Stuart Varney who commented on the world-wide slump in markets after the election news.

“They hate the election because they can see another debt crisis coming in Europe which will ripple around everywhere. All stock markets around the world are down, Wall Street included. Your 401k takes a hit.”

But opponents of austerity are taking the chance to crow, saying austerity is an all pain, no gain policy. Economist Paul Krugman wrote in his New York Times column that without Nicolas Sarkozy, the austerity treaties have a rocky future.

“What is true is that Mr. Hollande’s victory means the end of ‘Merkozy,’ the Franco-German axis that has enforced the austerity regime of the past two years. This would be a ‘dangerous’ development if that strategy were working, or even had a reasonable chance of working. But it isn’t and doesn’t; it’s time to move on.”

Krugman goes on to suggest the unthinkable: dismantling the euro. Media and economic sources treat that option as taboo, but a blogger for The Economist says even if you want to preserve the euro, austerity might not be the answer.

“The point is that the economy that matters is that of the euro zone as a whole. And when one steps back and looks at the dynamics in play, it becomes clear that the robotic push for national-level austerity across the euro zone is undermining integration and thereby exacerbating the crisis.”

But a CNN analyst says it doesn’t really matter what the voters want — ultimately, the markets will have the final say.

“These are the people celebrating Hollande’s election in France, right? They’re very happy. They’re celebrating. They’re silly people, because they will not get what they want. The markets will impose austerity on France, regardless of whether or not they want that.”

Hollande says he wants to stimulate economic growth to try to lower unemployment. Similar promises have caught on in Greece. But a blogger at Mindful Money says a middle ground may be the best answer.

“Austerity alone is increasingly understood to be an insufficient cure. But completely abandoning the strategy just to appease the voters isn’t the answer either. A more balanced approach between austerity and growth is what is called for...”

Greece’s political future is still up in the air. If a coalition government can’t be formed in the next few weeks, the country could hold another election as early as mid-June.

Greek Extremist Leader Warns 'Traitors' to Run

Mon, 07 May 2012 20:50:52 -0500

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(Image source: Daily Mail)

BY NIELS SCHACK NORGAARD

ANCHOR CHRISTINA HARTMAN

A Greek right-wing extremist party has stunned Europe by collecting seven percent of the votes in the Greek election on Sunday. The Daily Mail has footage of the Golden Dawn party’s leader Nikolaos Michaloliakos just after the election – and he left no doubt of how he wants to use his party’s 21 seats in the parliament.

Reporter: “What will be the first measure of change?
Nikolaos Michaloliakos: “All the illegal immigrants – out of my country, out of my home.”

The party denies being neo-Nazi, but according to the Daily Mail they have adopted the Nazi salute and wear stylized Swastikas as their logo. And speaking to Euronews, the Golden Dawn leader reiterated his policy.

Reporter: “Among other things it wants to expel immigrants and mine the border with Turkey.
Nikolaos Michaloliakos: “The Greeks were always Nationalists. (…) For everyone who is traitor, I don’t care.”

On Sunday, the Greek voters vented their anger on the harsh austerity measures dictated by the European Union and the Greek parties supporting them. Greece’s two principal parties have governed the country for 40 years, but they saw their vote cut in half, as conservative New Democracy became the country’s biggest party with 19 percent of the vote. But, New Democracy has been unable to gather a majority in the Greek parliament – and BBC says the situation is…

”A huge mess. Crisis, instability, uncertainty. Sound familiar? We have been talking about it excessively the past two years here. The political crisis is back with a vengeance. This country has no government.”

Besides the ultra right-wing party Golden Dawn, the party Coalition Of The Radical Left won 52 seats in the parliament - an amazing rise from the 13 seats they won in 2009. And observers fear the crisis in the Eurozone can lead to the rise of extremist parties, says MSNBC’s Europe correspondent.

“There’s a lot to worry about. It’s not only the crypto-fascist party on the right in Greece, it’s also the left-wing party which has a very radical program and probably holds the swing votes in the parliament now.”

The Greek parliament has 300 members, but it looks unlikely anyone will be able to form a majority government. Some say it could even look like Greece’s voters will have to go to the ballot boxes again.

Vice President Biden “Comfortable” with Gay Marriage

Mon, 07 May 2012 00:00:01 -0500

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(IMAGE: Wikimedia Commons)

BY STACEY WELSH

Vice President Joe Biden voiced support for gay marriage Sunday morning. He announced on NBC’s Meet the Press:

“I am absolutely comfortable with the fact that men marrying men, women marrying women and heterosexuals are entitled to the same exact rights.”

Biden said as more and more Americans are familiarized with gay people, say, through TV shows like “Will and Grace,” they’re becoming more comfortable with gay rights. Despite this, Biden maintained the president sets policy. The Christian Science Monitor comments:

“...the policy – or at least the position staked out by President Obama – is not the same as ‘men marrying men, women marrying women.’ Obama supports civil unions, but that’s it.

Politico reports the White House is trying to downplay the comment by saying Biden’s position is the same as the president’s.

“The comments are the strongest so far from within the White House. … There’s growing frustration with Obama’s reluctance to embrace gay marriage — especially among supporters who believe that the president personally supports them, but is holding off saying so for political reasons. Now Biden has added to the pressure...”

A gay rights advocate told the New York Times Biden can’t take the comment back.

“Trying now to walk this back will only hurt them... You can’t clarify an answer as direct and candid and expansive as the one he gave.”

Forbes reports Biden has evolved his stance on gay marriage since 2008 when he and President Obama did not indicate any support. In 2010, Biden also indicated gay marriage was inevitable.

Top News Headlines: Hollande Wins French Presidency

Sun, 06 May 2012 18:29:00 -0500

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(Image source: Wikimedia Commons)

BY STEVEN SPARKMAN

ANCHOR ZACH TOOMBs

Here’s a look at your top news headlines from Newsy.

In France, Socialist presidential candidate Francois Hollande has won the country’s presidential election over current president Nicolas Sarkozy. The BBC has his victory speech.

“The French people, on this 6th of May, have just chosen change by pushing me to the presidency of the republic.”

Greek voters also went to the polls in the country’s first election since its economic crisis began in 2009. CNN has the results.

“Early exit polls show steep losses for the two main parties that have supported painful austerity measures. Polls also show an ultra-right party making significant gains.”

In Moscow, more than 400 people have been arrested at a demonstration on the eve of Vladimir Putin’s inauguration. RT reports, the protest started peacefully.

“... until one of the radical leaders of the opposition, Sergey Udaltsov, called on the crowd to move away from the authorized area and gathered at another spot not agreed with the authorities.”

Vice President Joe Biden said on NBC’s Meet the Press that he’s comfortable with gay marriage rights, drawing comparisons between his views and President Obama’s support for civil unions.

“I am absolutely comfortable with the fact that men marrying men, women marrying women and heterosexuals are entitled to the same exact rights.”

Stay with Newsy for more multisource video news throughout the day. For Newsy, I’m Zach Toombs, highlighting the top headlines making you smarter, faster.

Obama's 'Life of Julia' Draws Conservative Ire

Sun, 06 May 2012 17:09:05 -0500

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(Image source: BarackObama.com)

BY ZACH TOOMBS

Can a fictional character help influence voters in this November’s presidential election? President Barack Obama’s re-election campaign unveiled one of their own last week — and the reaction has been mixed.

BarackObama.com debuted “The Life of Julia” Thursday. The feature aims to show how the president’s policies would help a woman through various stages of her life — from paying a lower student interest loan rate at age 25 to enrolling in Medicare at 65.

Although the latest Reuters/Ipsos poll of women voters shows President Obama with a 14-point advantage over Mitt Romney, the backlash to the “Life of Julia” campaign has been harsh — focusing on what some see as the feature’s promotion of government intervention. The “Morning Joe” crew on MSNBC had this to say.

JOE SCARBROUGH: “This cuts against just the grain of the American character.”

DONNY DEUTSCH: “Nobody, even a progressive guy like myself, wants to see America portrayed that way.”

A columnist for the conservative site Human Events spelled out the case against the Julia campaign, calling it:

“... a celebration of a how a woman can live her entire life by leaning on government intervention, dependency and other people's money rather than her own initiative or hard work … When they're old enough, I hope my two daughters will find the notion that their success hinges on the president's views on college-loan interest rates preposterous.”

On Twitter, Politico reports conservatives hijacked the #Julia hashtag with a heavy dose of sarcasm, including this from columnist Jonah Goldberg:

“Hey, where's the part where Obama fixes Julia's broken soul?”

But, for all its criticism, the online feature has also drawn praise. A panel on Fox News says Julia’s message is the right one for President Obama.

“Here we have a woman who worked through college.”

“So, to call that person a slacker I think is highly inaccurate.”

“I think the Julia ad actually reminds voters that there are real and important differences between Obama and Mitt Romney.”

And, although a writer for The Atlantic doesn’t doubt the Julia feature’s power of persuasion, he asks why focus on a character who appears to be from a privileged upbringing?

“... while the ad will arguably be effective … perhaps we ought to instead concern ourselves with how a less advantaged person might fare. Meet Ahmed. At age three, as he begins Head Start in New York City, his father, an illegal immigrant from Yemen, is deported by President Obama. Under Mitt Romney, he'd fare the same.”

All the back and forth aside, The Washington Post’s Chris Cillizza writes — the buzz surrounding “The Life of Julia” is good for Team Obama.

“... talking about Julia means talking about women voters and women’s issues, where Obama dominates. And by talking about a fictional woman named Julia, Republicans just drive more people to Obama’s campaign website.”

Sunday Soundbite Analysis 5/6

Sun, 06 May 2012 17:01:07 -0500

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(Image source: Newsy)

BY VICTORIA CRAIG

As President Obama’s reelection campaign kicks off, Vice President Joe Biden sat down on NBC’s “Meet the Press” to talk about major campaign points. He started with talk about jobs.

"Look, this goes up and down. But there's been a steady path — 26 months straight employment gain, private employment. And — but there's a lot more to do."

But U.S. Sen. Marco Rubio (R-FL) appeared on “Fox News Sunday” and said the Obama administration is increasingly out-of-touch with ordinary Americans when it comes to the economy.

“This president’s rhetoric today is just like anyone else in Washington. All the things that made him different and special four years ago are gone. And now all he does is divide Americans against each other, obviously, because he can’t run on his record.”

But Biden didn’t miss the chance to talk about President Obama’s Republican challenger, Mitt Romney — and his record of job creation.

"He talks about another $2 trillion in tax cuts for the very wealthy? You're gonna create jobs? Is that how he's gonna do it?”

Biden also reinforced the administration’s position on same sex marriage — saying he’s a supporter of equal rights for all.

“I am absolutely comfortable with the fact that men marrying men, women marrying women, and heterosexual, men marrying women, are entitled to the same exact rights, all the civil rights, all the civil liberties, and quite frankly, I don’t see much of a distinction beyond that.”

Although he’s out of the race, Newt Gingrich didn’t miss the opportunity to talk politics with CBS’ Bob Scheiffer. And he was very sure of himself when asked if he would consider a run in the veepstakes.

“Bob, you’ve known me a long time. Would you pick me to be vice presidential nominee? I mean, I am so much my own agent, it’s inconceivable.”

FEC Considers OKing Campaign Contributions Through Text

Sun, 06 May 2012 04:00:04 -0500

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(Image source: Wikimedia Commons)

BY ZACH TOOMBS

Making a campaign contribution could soon be as easy as voting for your favorite American Idol contestant.

The Washington Post reports the Federal Elections Commission is considering giving the okay to contributions via text message. It’s the same idea that has helped raise millions of dollars for disaster relief funds.

Although millionaire-funded Super PACs have made headlines for pouring money into state and national elections, Politico writes these new campaign finance proposals could help put power back into the hands of small donors.

“Taken together, the new programs could help recruit legions of new political contributors who can’t afford to cut a $2,500 check to a campaign or wire $1 million to a super PAC, but wouldn’t think twice about firing off 10 bucks through their iPhones to their favorite Republican or Democrat.”

This isn’t the first time the FEC has considered such a request. The Center for Responsive Politics writes the commission denied a proposal to allow text contributions in 2010 because:

“... the FEC asserted that the current proposal would not do enough to ‘separate corporate funds from political contributions’ and would not sufficiently limit donors from exceeding the $50 threshold for anonymous donations.”

The Post writes, although candidates’ campaign events have long served a purpose rallying supporters — the ability to donate via text would open up new fundraising possibilities.

“The system would limit contributions to $50 per month per phone, and $50 in total for any campaign committee, the proposal said. Under the proposal, a candidate could ask thousands of attendees at a rally to immediately text the campaign with a small contribution -- a modern version of passing the hat.”

Politico writes, if the FEC adopts the proposal in the next few weeks, candidates could have access to text donations just in time for elections this November.

Arizona Passes Law to Cut All Planned Parenthood Services

Sat, 05 May 2012 17:30:56 -0500

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(Image source: The Arizona Republic)

BY EVAN BUSH AND ZACH TOOMBS

ANCHOR ZACH TOOMBS

The Republican Party’s push to ban Planned Parenthood took a step further Friday. Good Morning America has the details.

“Arizona’s Governor — Jan Brewer — has signed a bill into law cutting off funding to Planned Parenthood for non-abortion services. The Republican governor says the law ensures no taxpayer money is used to pay for abortions.”

Arizona already bans the use of taxpayer funds for abortion. The Arizona Republic reports this law would block all state funding for the organization.

“Planned Parenthood of Arizona officials have said the bill … is intended to impact non-abortion services they provide, such as cancer screenings, birth control and well-woman exams. Fewer than one in 10 women seek abortion services from Planned Parenthood of Arizona, according to the organization.”

ABC News reports Planned Parenthood is considering legal action to challenge the law. After all, Governor Brewer signed the bill into law on the same day a federal court of appeals ruled the state of Texas could not defund Planned Parenthood. That ruling came after eight Planned Parenthood locations sued the state. Here’s WFAA in Dallas.

“A federal appeals judge has stopped Texas from banning Planned Parenthood from the Texas women's health program. state lawmakers are trying to stop federal dollars from funding an organization affiliated with the abortion providers.”

The Los Angeles Times explains in more detail why courts struck down the Texas law.

“Shortly before 5 p.m. Friday... The panel sided with the federal judge in Austin, ruling that there's evidence the new law preventing Planned Parenthood and other abortion providers from participating in a Medicaid and state-funded health program is unconstitutional.”

In a statement, Brewer called the measure ‘a common sense law’ that cuts off money to any clinic which provides abortion services. The CEO of Arizona’s Planned Parenthood shot back, saying the group is “most concerned” about the 65,000 Arizonians for whom it provides health care screenings.

The reaction from left-wing voices has been harsh. Jezebel writes:

"The use of public money for abortions had already been banned except to save the life of the mother, but apparently that already-extreme restriction wasn't Fun Time Fascist enough for them to get their rocks off."

But an article from Catholic Online was quick to back up the new Arizona law.

"(HB 2800) ensures that public monies go to genuine health care facilities and not organizations like Planned Parenthood which has pulled off a ruse. A ruse is an action intended to deceive. They dress themselves up as a "Health Care Provider" and include the taking of the life of children as a ‘service’ under their definition of ‘reproductive services.’ Abortion is not health care ... Abortion is deadly.”

According to New York Magazine, six states have adopted similar laws — but opponents are taking the measure to court in three of them.

Is Ron Paul Relevant?

Sat, 05 May 2012 15:05:00 -0500

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(Image source: Des Moines Register)

BY BLAKE HANSON

As much of the media focuses their attention on Mitt Romney v. President Obama — Ron Paul continues to campaign, and campaign hard. Here’s WTHR...

“While he doesn’t get much attention from the national media, his campaign draws a lot of support from young people. He’s been speaking at college campuses around the country.”

So — the question is, without Newt Gingrich and Rick Santorum taking a dent out of the Romney delegate count — can Ron Paul make an impact?

Paul has yet to win a primary or caucus, and Romney has picked up 10 times as many delegates as him.

But as The Christian Science Monitor points out, winning the nomination might not be the strategy...

“Paul is promoting a movement as much as a candidacy ... To keep his message out there he needs to stay a player, and 2012 probably is Paul’s last chance to do that on a national scale.”

As ThyBlackMan.com writes, you can already see the effects of Paul’s campaigning by looking at Romney’s talking points...

“Not all is bad. Ron Paul lives on ... The majority wants a candidate who will slash government and do-gooder social programs. They want this candidate to also be responsible to foreign policy, and don’t mind if the candidate ends up supporting conservative values like family, economy and social stability.”

But Fox News’ John Stossel thinks Paul’s campaign stands a real chance....

STOSSEL: “Next week, he’s gonna catch on.”
VAN SUSTEREN: “Why next week, is there a special thing going on?”
STOSSEL: “I just think that these ideas of limited government make such sense that it has to catch on sometime.”

The GOP is already turning its focus to the August convention in Tampa.

The Guardian offers analysis on how Ron Paul could cause a distraction there...

“Romney's camp is unlikely to be happy with Paul's strategy, either. Modern conventions in American politics are designed to be carefully choreographed affairs with a united party getting fully behind the nominee. Every delegate that the Paul campaign collects raises the prospect of embarrassing the campaign.”

Warren Defends Listing as Native American

Sat, 05 May 2012 05:00:05 -0500

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(Image source: The Washington Post/Bloomberg)

BY ZACH TOOMBS

The hottest Senate race in the nation took another turn this week — with Democratic candidate Elizabeth Warren facing tough questions. MSNBC’s Andrea Mitchell gave a recap of the controversy Friday.

“Reports surfaced this week that she once listed herself as a minority when she was a Harvard law professor, which seems quite a stretch since she’s only 1/32nd Native American.”

The Boston Herald was the first to report Warren’s record of listing as a Native American. The candidate — who aims to knock Republican Sen. Scott Brown out of his seat this November — responded to the media’s questions on the subject at a presser Wednesday. New England Cable News has it.

“I listed myself in the directory in the hopes that it might mean that I would be invited to a luncheon, a group, something that might happen with people who are like I am.”

Warren spent decades as a college professor. Politico reports none of her former employers said her listing as a minority affected decisions to hire her. Still, in 1996, Harvard touted her as its only tenured Native American professor.

"The Democratic Senate candidate in Massachusetts has delivered a series of uneven and confusing responses to revelations that she once listed herself as a minority law teacher, raising questions about whether this is just one blip in a long race or an image-defining moment that undercuts her profile as an authentic populist candidate."

In Warren’s defense, Mother Jones notes that even the Cherokee Nation’s principal chief — Bill John Baker — is only 1/32nd Cherokee. Mother Jones writes:

“Warren could make a fairly a legitimate claim to the (Native American) title. Growing up in Oklahoma, with a large American Indian population, it's not surprising that she would have viewed her heritage differently than in a place like Massachusetts.”

The main criticism coming from media scrutiny focuses on Warren’s responses to the controversy. The Washington Post writes:

"What is significant: Warren was caught off-guard and had difficulty responding. With all the attention she’s gotten and money she’s raised, it’s easy to forget that this incredibly high-profile Senate race is Warren’s first political campaign.”

Romney and Santorum Meet Privately in Pittsburgh

Fri, 04 May 2012 20:10:27 -0500

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(Image Source: Red Dog Report)

BY LIAM KEEGAN

ANCHOR ANA COMPAIN-ROMERO

Mitt Romney and Rick Santorum hold a private meeting in Pittsburgh.

Santorum’s campaign chief says the two had a “casual conversation”, but a Democratic strategist tells MSNBC – he’s glad he didn’t have to be in room for that meeting.

“There’s no love lost between us as I’ve said before. What do you need A, me to do to help you and B, here’s what I need from you. And I bet you that was a remarkably mature conversation between two men who just don’t like each other.”

Boston’s WCVB says Santorum had his reasons for meeting with Romney.

“His camp says he wants to ensure the GOP’s policy represents conservative interests before he throws his support behind Romney.”

So, that’s from people -- not -- in the room. Prior to the meeting, a Santorum aide was quoted in The New York Times as saying....

“Mr. Santorum does not plan to ask Mr. Romney for any assurances — about his positions on social issues, help to retire his campaign debt or a post in a potential Romney White House. The aide added that Mr. Santorum is a political operative at heart, who understands that the spoils go the victor, and that Mr. Romney is now his party’s presumptive nominee.”

Romney tells Fox News, he did not expect the meeting to result in an endorsement from Santorum.

Seeing an opportunity to capitalize on the meeting, the Democratic National Committee released a video of the former candidate’s biggest swipes at Romney.

“If Mitt Romney’s an economic heavyweight, we’re in trouble, because he was 47th out of 50 in job creations in the state of Massachusetts when he was governor.”

ABC says no public Romney-Santorum appearance is scheduled.

Top News Headlines: Santorum and Romney Meet in Private

Fri, 04 May 2012 18:25:54 -0500

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(Image source: CNN)

BY NATHAN BYRNE AND STEVEN SPARKMAN

ANCHOR CARISSA LOETHEN

Here’s a look at your top news headlines from Newsy.

Mitt Romney and Rick Santorum met behind closed doors today, according to MSNBC. No endorsement yet, but one analyst says the clock’s ticking.

“ … Santorum’s looking out for himself, but he has to be mindful of the fact that the longer this goes on, the less leverage I think he retains over Mitt Romney to ask for some sort of prize or reward for that endorsement.”

A slight drop in the unemployment rate — from 8.2 percent to 8.1. But accompanying job-creation numbers are being called, quote, “disappointing.”

Here’s Fox Business.

“That is far below what the Street had been expecting — roughly 170,000 jobs to be created. … (FLASH) But this morning’s 115,000 jobs created in April is not what Wall Street had expected.”

Defense secretary Leon Panetta spoke to troops on their way to Afghanistan today, warning them to be on their best behavior. CNN reports this comes in response to videos showing troops desecrating corpses, which Panetta says hurts the U.S. mission.

“Panetta saying he knows that the vast number of troops perform very admirably, but that these incidents have to stop.”

And the fastest two minutes in sports is scheduled for this weekend. The first race of the Triple Crown kicks off Saturday evening at 6:24 eastern time. And every story is apparently obligated to mention “mint juleps.”

“Ladies wearing big hats, fans sipping mint juleps, the Pegasus Parade on the streets of Louisville. Oh, you know it’s Kentucky Derby time!”

Stay with Newsy for more multisource video news throughout the day. For Newsy, I’m Nathan Byrne, highlighting the top headlines making you smarter, faster.

Ukraine Denounces EU's Boycott of Football Championships

Thu, 03 May 2012 22:28:11 -0500

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(Image Source: L viv Travel)

BY TATIANA DARIE

ANCHOR CHRISTIAN BRYANT

Ukraine has responded to an EU boycott of the Euro 2012 soccer championship. The EU is protesting the alleged mistreatment of imprisoned Ukrainian ex-Prime Minister Yulia’s Tymoshenko. The Ukrainian Foreign Affairs Ministry denounced the move as "destructive". R T has the story...

“There are growing calls for the Euro 2012 matches to be moved away from Ukraine- as more and more countries are threatening to boycott the event. All of this over the case of jailed ex-premier Yulia Tymoshenko.”

Tymoshenko is on a hunger strike to protest mistreatment in prison. She is serving a seven-year sentence on charges of abusing her powers as prime minister. Several European leaders had previously announced they would not be attending the Ukrainian soccer games.

German chancellor Angela Merkel, a keen football fan, has not made her decision public. The Telegraph has her comments...

"Much more important than my travel plans is that we must now do everything possible to see that Yulia Tymoshenko gets the proper treatment for her medical problems as soon as possible"

The Guardian says overcoming this will be a tough challenge for Ukraine...

“For President Yanukovych Euro 2012 was a unique opportunity to sell Ukraine to the world: as a modern, peaceful, pluralistic, EU-aspiring nation, with a rich history and culture. Instead, his government is now staring at a PR disaster.”

Poland is co-hosting the games. It has criticized the call for a boycott in Western Europe. Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk told Radio Free Europe that...

“... his country was sympathetic to concerns about the condition of Tymoshenko, who has complained of ill-treatment ... But he suggested Tymoshenko herself would be reluctant to see years of preparations wasted by a European boycott.”

Russia’s Vladimir Putin responded by saying that sport and politics should be kept separate. Russian news agency RIA Novosti has his comments and Newsy translates it for you...

“In any case, you can’t mix politics, business and other issues with sport...I stick to the principle professed and supported by the International Olympic Committee – sport is outside politics.”

The European Football Championship kicks off June 8th.

Chinese Activist: Let Me Leave on Clinton's Plane

Thu, 03 May 2012 17:37:17 -0500

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(Image source: U.S. Embassy - Beijing)

BY ZACH TOOMBS

Chinese activist Chen Guangcheng says he regrets his decision to leave the U.S. Embassy and enter a Beijing hospital. The deal, made with Chinese authorities Wednesday, was meant to ensure his safety. ABC has a look at what happened after U.S. officials returned Chen to China’s hands.

“Hours later, after the diplomats were gone — chaos … Chinese guards shoving reporters away from Chen, who told reporters earlier he felt abandoned by the U.S. and feared for his safety.”

The BBC spoke to Chen from his hospital room Thursday.

“I feel very unsafe. My rights and safety cannot be assured here. I was thinking about staying in China before, but now I have changed my mind."

Chen — a blind lawyer who defied the Chinese government by uncovering state-forced abortions — had remained under house arrest for 18 months before escaping from Chinese authorities last week. He found refuge in the U.S. Embassy, but says he was pressured to leave by U.S. diplomats and out of his own concern for his family.

The controversy has overshadowed annual talks between U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and China’s government. In an exclusive interview with The Daily Beast, Chen pleaded for U.S. help in leaving China.

“[Chen’s] wife told him she’d been tied to a chair, beaten, and interrogated by Chinese guards after they learned he had entered the U.S. embassy in Beijing last Friday … [He told The Daily Beast] ‘I need your help, I’m absolutely, absolutely ready to fly out on Hillary Clinton’s plane. Please tell the embassy what I’m saying.’”

In her scheduled remarks to Chinese leaders, Clinton did not mention Chen by name, but spoke of freedom and dignity for the nation’s citizens. Chinese President Hu Jintao also vaguely addressed the controversy in his speech. Sky News and The Guardian have their commentst.

“The United States raises the importance of human rights and fundamental freedoms because we believe that all governments do have to answer to citizens’ aspirations for dignity and the rule of law.”

“Both sides must learn to respect each other, grasp the common ground and make the cake of common interest bigger. We must treat differences appropriately, respect and care for each other’s concerns and properly resolve existing disputes through dialogue and communication.”

The Telegraph calls Chen’s predicament a “major diplomatic headache” for the U.S. as it walks the line between standing up for perceived human rights offenses and interfering in Chinese affairs. The Washington Post writes there’s only so much Clinton can do for the Chinese activist.

“In reality ... it would be extremely difficult and extraordinarily unusual for Chen and his relatives to depart with the chief U.S. diplomat. Chen has no passport or visa, for one thing. And Clinton has planned stops in India and Bangladesh before returning to Washington.”

Although Chen says the U.S. pressured him to leave its embassy, U.S. Ambassador Gary Locke says he was prepared to house Chen for years if he so wished.

Norwegian Professor Links Mossad To Norway Massacre

Thu, 03 May 2012 04:00:02 -0500

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(Image source: Wikimedia Commons)

BY NIELS SCHACK NORGAARD

ANCHOR ANA COMPAIN-ROMERO

He’s called “the father of peace studies”, but Norwegian professor Johan Galtung has caused outrage in Norway after hinting at a so-called Jewish connection to last year’s terrorist attacks in Norway.

Jewish newspaper Haaretz reports Galtung is basing his theory on Anders Breivik’s affiliation with the Freemasons organization…

”… ‘which has Jewish origins,’ according to Galtung. The supposed connection to Israel is through the [Israeli spy agency] Mossad – which Galtung believes might have given Breivik his orders.”

One of Galtung’s supporting arguments references the date Breivik chose for the massacre. The professor tells Democracy Now July 22nd, 1099 was the day Knights Templar liberated Jerusalem for the Christians and later the Jews.

And on the July 22nd, 1946, The King David Hotel was blown up by Jewish terrorists…

“… Some of them later became Prime Ministers of Israel. The day is not by chance. He [Breivik] has deep, deep anchorings in the Judea-Christian mythology and the myths of the Knights Templar.”

Norwegian media immediately denounced Galtung’s views that the Israeli spy agency Mossad could have been the puppet masters behind the massacre. Dagbladet writes in an editorial, it’s best to pass Galtung’s conspiracy theories in silence. But…

“Galtung was for years a beacon in academia in Norway. His explanations of the world were brilliant and entertaining; often so eccentric Galtung was in the wrong. This week, however, Galtung took a step away from his former critical stance on the left; to what many regards an inexplicable extreme right wing position.”

Rabbi Shaul Wilhelm tells The Jerusalem Post he is happy with the negative reaction of the Norwegian media.

“He is a known anti-Semite and anti-Israel voice in Norway so he’s not mainstream, but all the newspapers mentioned it and criticized him, so that was quite nice.”

As for the 82-year-old Professor himself? He is angry people are accusing him of being anti-Semitic. Galtung has left Norway and tells Verdens Gang this debate is exactly the reason why.

“That’s just nonsense. That’s gibberish from beginning to end. Few people are as good friends of the Jewish and Israeli community as I am. This is the typical Norwegian debate. I won’t stoop to this level.”

Norwegian terrorist Anders Breivik is currently on trial for killing 77 people last July.

Openly Gay Romney Aide Steps Down Over 'Personal Issues'

Wed, 02 May 2012 16:47:12 -0500

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(Image Source: The Washington Post)

BY MICHAEL COLLINS

He was only in place for two weeks — but Mitt Romney’s openly gay, and now former, foreign policy spokesperson Richard Grenell has stepped down following criticism over his sexuality and appointment within the campaign.

Grenell had previously served as U.N. Director of Communications — and cited “personal issues” as the reason for his resignation. But WWMT reports — he was a controversial pick for the Romney camp from the start.

“...after he was named to Romney team, and then deleted some 800 tweets, critical of First Lady Michelle Obama, Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and Newt Gingrich's wife, Callista.”

As an openly gay spokesperson — Grenell’s appointment raised eyebrows among some social conservatives. A writer for Al Jazeera believes this has seriously damaged Romney’s public image.

“The departure underscores some of the challenges the Romney campaign faces as it tries to broaden its appeal to more moderate voters without alienating the social conservatives who make up the party's base.”

Although some view it as a hit for the presumptive GOP nominee, the Editor-at-Large of The Huffington Post’s Gay Voice doesn’t think this is bad news for the gay community.

“I don't buy the argument made by some that it was a measure of progress, that Romney hired a gay man as his foreign policy spokesperson when he's using that gay man to make himself appear moderate to independents, while promising the GOP base that he'll make gay people into second-class citizens.”

But speaking to CNN, a Republican strategist says Grenell’s sexuality had nothing to do with his departure. In fact — the Romney campaign said as much.

“He does have immense experience and is a valued spokesperson in the republican party. Let's look at it this way. We hope to get to a country where we don't have to talk about whether someone is gay or not gay, straight or transgender when they stay or leave a job. We hope to talk about things on the merits. Why he left is up to him. It was a personal decision.”

Although Grenell released a statement on Tuesday, he has since declined any further comments. In a statement to reporters Romney’s campaign manager Matt Rhoades called the resignation “disappointing” — and said the campaign had wanted him to stay.

Rubio Walks Fine Line on Immigration Bill

Wed, 02 May 2012 00:00:03 -0500

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(Image source: The New York Times)

BY ZACH TOOMBS

A plan to extend residency for illegal immigrants is coming from an unlikely source — the GOP. Cuban-American Senator Marco Rubio is looking for supporters — on both sides of the aisle — for his new legislation. CNN reports.

“He says he has an alternative version of the DREAM Act that would allow young people brought here illegally by their parents not to become citizens but to remain in the U.S. legally on a work visa.”

The bill would apply only to immigrants who came to the U.S. as minors, and would require them to attend community college for two years or serve two years in the military. Democrats call it a watered-down version of the DREAM Act — a bill meant to provide a path to citizenship. But Rubio also hasn’t received much support from his own party.

BOEHNER: “... To deal with a very difficult issue like this — I think it would be difficult at best.”

“A spokesperson for Romney, who has opposed the DREAM Act, put out a statement saying he will 'study and consider' the proposal.”

Politico reports — during an election year especially — Rubio walks a fine line in building bipartisan support for an immigration bill.

“If his proposal is too tough on enforcement, he’ll lose support from Democrats and Latino advocacy groups. If he softens his proposal too much, he risks turning off conservatives who are approaching Rubio, a rising star in the party, with an open mind. For now, both sides are reluctant to fully embrace his proposals.”

But The Washington Post says Rubio’s plan is a rare opportunity to work across party lines on a hot button issue.

“Better late than never, a prominent Republican has begun fashioning a stance on immigration policy that breaks from GOP orthodoxy … His idea qualifies as a genuine attempt at compromise; no Senate Republicans signed on as co-sponsors the last time Democrats introduced their Dream Act, in 2010.”

Although Rubio is working with high-ranking Republican Senators Kay Bailey Hutchison of Texas and Minority Whip Jon Kyl of Arizona, his plan has yet to pick up steam in the Senate. Roll Call reports Rubio and the White House are engaging in a bit of a blame game as a result.

“Rubio said the White House has also been ‘actively trying to torpedo (efforts)’ by calling in immigration advocates and urging them not to back Rubio’s bill … A senior administration aide said that the president is willing to work with any member on immigration, (saying) ‘But the president expects serious partners, and that is something we have not seen.’”

There’s also Rubio’s potential pairing with Romney on the GOP ticket. Romney has said illegal immigrants should return to their country of origin. But The Atlantic writes Rubio’s plan gives the candidate a chance to avoid alienating influential Hispanic voting blocs.

“It's unclear whether the lifeline (Rubio) is offering Mitt Romney is long enough to lift the presumptive Republican presidential nominee from the hole he dug with Hispanic voters during the primary race. But Romney's odds of extricating himself will almost certainly improve if he accepts … Rubio's help.”

Obama Makes Midnight Visit to Afghanistan

Tue, 01 May 2012 17:45:43 -0500

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(Image Source: Wikimedia Commons)

BY SCOTT MACDONALD

ANCHOR ZACH TOOMBS

Under cover of darkness Tuesday, President Barack Obama arrived unannounced in Afghanistan, where he will pledge nation-building support to the struggling country and give a televised address to American viewers.

The president left Andrews Air Force Base in Maryland shortly after midnight on Tuesday morning and arrived at Bagram Airfield shortly after 10 p.m. local time.

Obama immediately boarded a helicopter, which flew him to Kabul, the nation’s capital. There, he signed a strategic partnership agreement with Afghan President Hamid Karzai. CBS News explains.

“In that agreement, the United States pledges to support Afghanistan for ten years after the withdrawal of US combat troops at the end of 2014.”

The president will then return to Bagram Airfield to talk to troops and then give a televised address at 7:30 p.m. eastern time. MSNBC anticipates the content of the speech.

“Obama's overarching message will be that the war is ending on his watch but the U.S. commitment to its ally is not.”

The president’s third trip to Afghanistan falls on the first anniversary of the killing of Osama bin Laden by Navy SEALs in Pakistan, and, ironically, the ninth anniversary of George W. Bush’s “Mission Accomplished” speech on Iraq. The Wall Street Journal points out the motivation for the visit.

“The trip is the White House's latest effort to commemorate what the president's advisers see as his crowning national security achievement. It wasn't publicly announced for security reasons and comes at a time of fresh scrutiny of the decade-long war...”

Mitt Romney, Obama’s likely opponent in the November election, has criticized the president for exploiting the bin Laden raid for his own political advantage but has yet to comment publicly on Tuesday’s trip. Senator John McCain, however, told USA Today he hopes the president uses the speech to allay fears of an abrupt pullout from Afghanistan.

"I would urge the President to return from this visit and spend more time speaking directly with the American people about the vital national security interests at stake in Afghanistan and the need for the United States to remain strongly engaged there in the years ahead.”

The seven-hour visit was shrouded in secrecy before the White House announced Tuesday afternoon that the president had landed at Bagram. Although the red-eye trip might seem unconventional, Politico says it benefits both the American audience and Obama’s safety in the war zone.

“The unconventional timing of events on the trip, such as the signing ceremony at midnight local time, was aimed at allowing Obama to address Americans on a schedule convenient for U.S. television audiences … But the dark-of-night schedule also provides an added layer of security for Air Force One and the flights by helicopter.”

Although the president’s remarks are set for prime time in the States, his speech will begin at around 4 a.m. local time.

Conservatives Say Twitter is a Tool for Left

Tue, 01 May 2012 05:00:05 -0500

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(Image Source: Twitter)

BY BREANA JONES AND CHRISTINA HARTMAN

ANCHOR CHRISTINA HARTMAN

Conservatives are calling Twitter a tool for the left.

On Sunday, CNN conservative analyist Dana Loesch released a statement on breitbart.com saying her husband Chris Loesch’s Twitter account had been suspended after an orchestrated attack by liberals.

The Loesch’s say leftist Tweeters reported Chris as spam, leading Twitter’s automated response to suspend his account to stop the supposed “spam”.

Normally, it’s how Twitter keeps spammers off the site but this time, conservative critics say it was used as a tool to get rid of Chris’s conservative message. Hot Air’s Ed Morrissey says this actually hurts the entire Twitter community in the long run.

“Now that the Left is abusing the spam mechanism, Twitter will almost certainly have to suspend its use, which means the only people who will win this game are the spammers, and we’ll have no way to deal with the flood of annoying marketing messages.”

But conservative blog The Blaze says it IS possible this wasn’t so much a coordinated attack than a simple algorithm.

“It is important to note that the suspensions may be entirely based on an algorithm... Since algorithms only count certain elements such as the frequency of times reported, the explanation may lay within that realm.”

BuzzFeed adds, “...searches of recent tweets did not uncover evidence of a coordinated campaign to report Mr. Loesch.”

Whether an algorithm or a coordinated attack, NewsBusters says Twitter had better get its act together.

“Twitter is now used by America's political leaders and top journalists. They're certainly not going to participate in a social media website where their account can be so easily removed by opponents.”

Conservatives took to Twitter to rally for Loesch’s return using the hashtag #FreeChrisLoesch. As of Monday evening, @ChrisLoesch was back up and running.

Australian Billionaire to Replicate the Titanic

Mon, 30 Apr 2012 13:33:51 -0500

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(Image Credit: The Punch)

BY CELIA MURRAY

ANCHOR LAUREN GORES

As if we hadn’t heard enough about Titanic recently — Clive Palmer, an Australian billionaire, has announced a rather titanic proposal. Here’s Australia’s 7 News.

“The mining billionaire says he signed a deal with the Chinese state-owned company to build the Titanic 2. Now it’ll be the same dimensions as the original Titanic...”

Mr Palmer, whose fortune is estimated at between 3 and 6 billion dollars, is paying for the replica out of his own pocket — something he doesn’t mind bringing up. The BBC has his statement.

Clive Palmer: "We've got the money, we've got the shipyard and we're moving very heavily to commence construction to bring this ship into service."

As a blogger for The Wall Street Journal writes, as a well known eccentric industrialist, Palmer isn’t one to stay out of the spotlight — but this is definitely an eye opening affair.

“...his desire to see his version of Titanic sail past the Statue of Liberty alongside a Chinese naval escort could raise a few eyebrows in the U.S. where Mr. Palmer has previously accused the Central Intelligence Agency of funding clandestine campaigns in Australia.”

In a separate press conference on the same day he announced his Titanic plans — Palmer also announced his bid for parliament — which has prompted many in the media to question his judgement. A writer for The Punch wasn’t too impressed at this perceived publicity stunt.

“It says a lot about the current climate that a mining magnate can simultaneously announce he’s commissioned a replica of the Titanic and that he’s going to run against the Treasurer at the next election and it seems like just another day in the circus that is Australian politics.”

A writer for Crikey takes it one step farther, saying it plays into the farce of politics in Australia — and it is only getting worse.

“This is what happens when politicians and the media debase the truth in favour of endless spin...voters get the message: if politicians and the media don’t take politics seriously enough...why should they...? Why not treat it simply as game of egos and tall tales without real significance?”

Palmer says the voyage is set for 2016 and will sail from London to New York.

Sarkozy, Hollande Face Scandals Amidst Presidential Runoff

Mon, 30 Apr 2012 00:00:04 -0500

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(Image Source: Wikimedia Commons)

BY: JOE DEUTSCHMANN

As the French presidential runoff election draws near, current president Nicolas Sarkozy and challenger François Hollande face embarrassment in the wake of separate scandals.

First — incumbent President Nicolas Sarkozy faces allegations he made an “illegal financial arrangement” with former Libyan dictator Muammar Gaddafi —

— after investigative news website Mediapart published what it calls evidence Gaddafi funded Sarkozy’s election campaign of 2007.

Meanwhile — Sarkozy’s presidential challenge Francois Hollande was put on the defensive after his campaign manager attended a birthday party to which embattled former IMF head Dominique Strauss-Khan was also invited.

Hollande says Strauss-Khan shouldn’t play any role in political life — the former continues to battle allegations of sexual impropriety. The birthday party incident came after Strauss-Kahn accused Sarkozy of sabotaging his political career. CNN explains.

“DSK launched a conspiracy theory, saying he believes operatives linked to current French president Nicolas Sarkozy orchestrated his public fall.”

But Sarkozy is dealing with more than DSK’s accusation. He’s also denying he received as much as €50m from Gaddafi during the last presidential election in 2007. Reuters reports Sarkozy said on French television, “It’s a disgrace. It’s a fabrication.” Al Jazeera has coverage.

“It’s grotesque, and I’m sorry that I’m being interrogated about allegations over Gaddafi or his son on an important channel like TF1.”

The president had hoped to win votes from supporters of far-right Marine Le Pen, who lost to Sarkozy and Hollande in the first round of the election. But the recent allegations have put him in a bind. A writer for The New York Times explains,

“...supporters of Ms. Le Pen said that they saw Mr. Sarkozy as an embodiment of a corrupt elite disconnected from social and economic realities. They said they did not like his flamboyant personality and that they resented his effort to win their votes as insincere.”

According to The Wall Street Journal, Hollande is projected to beat Sarkozy with 54 percent of the vote. The election will take place May 6.

Sunday Soundbite Analysis 04/28/12

Sun, 29 Apr 2012 15:00:56 -0500

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(Image: Newsy)

BY VICTORIA CRAIG

Counterterrorism efforts and topics on the economy dominated the Sunday talk shows this weekend as the one year anniversary of the Osama Bin Laden death raid nears.

John Brennon: “We’ve degraded the organization significantly over the past decade. And in the past several years, in particular, as we’ve taken off the battlefield the founding leader.”
Ed Gillespie: “Excessive government intervention in our economy that we would be better off with a little more freedom and there’d be a lot more growth.”

With that anniversary just days away, President Obama’s top counterterrorism adviser John Brennon sat down with Fox News Sunday’s Chris Wallace to talk about national security. He said there’s no credible evidence to suggest an attack might happen to mark that historical day.

“The counterterrorism community is used to making sure that we’re as vigilant as possible to guard against any efforts on the part of Al Qaeda or other terrorist groups to mark such a day.”

There’s no doubt Bin Laden’s death marks a significant point in the War on Terror for the US. But Ed Gillespie, an adviser to Mitt Romney, told NBC’s “Meet the Press,” that historical event shouldn’t be made into an election year political issue.

“This is one of the reasons President Obama has become one of the most divisive presidents in history. He took something that was a unifying event for all Americans... and he’s managed to turn it into a divisive, partisan, political attack.”

But Robert Gibbs, a campaign advisor to President Obama, doesn’t see it that way. He told George Stephanopoulos a President Romney might not have taken the steps to assasinate Bin Laden the way President Obama did.

“He criticized Barack Obama a few years ago when Barack Obama said if we had actionable intelligence about a high-value target, and let’s be clear, nobody was bigger, nobody was a more high-value target than Osama Bin Laden.”

But his attacks on the presumptive GOP frontrunner didn’t stop there. He criticized Romney on his job creation record and plans for economic growth – saying those policies got the country into the economic slump it’s in today.

“He’s not a job creator...His economic ideas are the failed economic ideas we tried for eight years: Tax cuts for millionaires and billionaires, and letting Wall Street go back to writing the rules all over again.”

The issue of women’s rights – and what lawmakers are doing to help or hurt women – resurfaced Sunday. Gillespie said if anything, women have seen more setbacks under the Obama administration.

“There are 2.7 million more women without health insurance today than when Barack Obama took office. 858,000 fewer women working today than when President Obama took office...it’s still the economy, and women aren’t stupid.”

But House Speaker John Boehner told CNN’s Candy Crowley, the so-called fight on women’s health isn’t an issue right now– saying the Democrats aren’t looking into funding to aid breast and cervical cancer prevention.

“There’s no women’s health issue here. I’ll guarantee you that they’ve not spent a dime out of this fund dealing with anything to do with women’s health.”

Boehner also touched on the topic of student loan funding – an issue the president spent a lot of time campaigning about this week. In response to Obama’s insistence he will veto a bill that takes money from his health care law, Boehner said the president is picking a fight that doesn’t exist.

John Boehner: "Why did the president sign into law the payroll tax cut that included $4 billion worth of reductions in this same program?"
Candy Crowley: “Taking it out of the same fund you want to take it out of.”
John Boehner: “The same fund!”

Jokes Galore At WH Correspondents Dinner

Sun, 29 Apr 2012 14:50:50 -0500

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(Image source: White House)

BY GINA COOK

Politicians and celebrities alike came out to Saturday’s White House Correspondents Dinner. Most headlines from the night focused on Obama’s jabs at GOP presidential candidate Mitt Romney. Here’s a clip from NBC:

“President Obama got in a few light-hearted shots against Mitt Romney.”
“We both have degrees from Harvard. I have one, he has two. What a snob.”

Obama also aired a mock Romney campaign commercial at the dinner. C-SPAN has video of the SNL-like spoof.

“Finally a candidate with the courage to fight for a dog’s freedom to feel the wind in his fur.”
“Under his failed leadership man’s best friend has been forced into government controlled automobiles.”

A correspondent for Fox and Friends thinks the comedic attack is just foreshadowing how the Obama/Romney political battle will play out.

“But look, I think that’s gonna be the narrative moving forward that Romney’s gonna try and say alright he’s the funny one. He’s the hip one. He’s the cool one, but I’m the serious one — even owning his dullness. We shall see if that’s the narrative.”

Romney wasn’t the only target for the president’s humor. A writer for Politico notes the president didn’t hesitate to poke fun at himself, writing...

“As is custom, Obama also made sure to take plenty of self-deprecating shots at his administration and himself, from his struggles with kicking the cigarette habit to the controversy over his birthplace to how much he’s aged in just four years...”

After the president’s opening, late night host Jimmy Kimmel joked about last year’s dinner.

“As we know now last year President Obama had his team on the way to kill Osama Bin Laden. So who will it be this year?”

And CNN says Kimmel also made a few jabs at the commander in chief.

“There’s always truth in humor.”
“Mr. President remember when the country rallied around you in hopes of a better tomorrow? That was hilarious.”

GOP Veteran Faces Tea Party Challenger in Senate Race

Sun, 29 Apr 2012 00:00:01 -0500

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(Image source: The Indianapolis Star)

BY ZACH TOOMBS

After 36 years as a U.S. Senator, Indiana Republican Dick Lugar faces a significant primary challenge from a Tea Party favorite. Fox News reports the NRA and Citizens United have both thrown their weight behind Indiana treasurer Richard Mourdock — and Tea Party activists are on the ground for him.

“Supplementing Mourdock’s own get out the vote effort is Hoosier for a conservative Senate, made up of over 50 Indiana Tea Party groups now fanning out around the state.”

“Meanwhile, the Lugar campaign has been burning up phone lines looking for votes.”

A poll conducted by Citizens United last week shows Mourdock with a five-point lead over the veteran Lugar. The Washington Post says that poll is “part of what seems to be a steady trend in Mourdock’s favor.” And a heavy conservative endorsement for Mourdock on Friday could tip the scales. Indiana’s WTHR has it.

“New this morning, Sarah Palin throwing her conservative clout behind Indiana treasurer Richard Mourdock …”

“The former candidate for vice president and Tea Party icon calls the Mourdock — calls Mourdock, rather, the conservative choice over U.S. Senator Richard Lugar.”

The 80-year-old Lugar is relying on a few big-name endorsements of his own, relying on well-established GOP figures like Indiana Gov. Mitch Daniels and Sen. John McCain.

“I’m not for Dick Lugar because of what he’s done but because of what he can do. Our nation faces huge dangers, and it’ll take people with his big-picture vision and broad respect to see us past them.”

NARRATOR: “Sen. John McCain.”

MCCAIN: “Indiana is fortunate to have a senator like Dick Lugar.”

The Indianapolis Star notes Friday delivered a double dose of bad news for Lugar. After Mourdock picked up Palin’s endorsement, the Star reports:

“With Mourdock getting substantial help from outside groups, Lugar needed the same. But late Friday, a Republican Super PAC that has been backing Lugar -- the American Action Network -- said it is calling it quits … As of Friday, the American Action Network had spent more than $645,153 on ads backing Lugar.”

Lugar’s not the only veteran GOP senator fending off Tea Party candidates in the 2012 cycle. Utah’s Orrin Hatch failed to clinch his state’s Republican nomination for the Senate last week — meaning he’ll face former state Sen. Dan Liljenquist in a June primary. Politico writes it’s all part of a bigger trend.

“Between Obama's election in November 2008 and January of next year, roughly a third of the Senate will have turned over during the course of his first term. It's becoming a younger institution (by Senate standards, that is), but the next Senate will also most likely be even more polarized than the one that confronted him when he stepped into the Oval Office.”

Osama bin Laden Death Resurfaces in Campaign Talk

Sat, 28 Apr 2012 14:14:13 -0500

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(Image Source: The White House)

BY BLAKE HANSON

Politico dubbed it “Osama bin Laden operation, part two.” Approaching the one-year anniversary of Osama bin Laden’s death, The Obama campaign is touting the killing as a campaign tool. The volley of marketing missiles includes a web ad featuring former President Bill Clinton...

“He took the harder and more honorable path, and in my opinion the one that produced the best result.”

So is this a smart campaign move or is taking advantage of the event going too far? The New York Times reports the P.R. blitz is an attempt to reassure Americans who is really in charge...

“Facing an onslaught of criticism from Republican rivals who try to paint him as a lightweight celebrity, the Obama White House and campaign are engaging in a media blitz meant to remind everyone who has been calling the shots on foreign policy.”

The hosts of “Fox and Friends Weekend” expressed their concern over the possible politicization of the event...

DAVE BRIGGS: “That is maybe a little disturbing to me, that we’re not giving credit to the brave men and women who were responsible here.”
CLAYTON MORRIS: “It just seems odd and weird to be using this in a sort of congratulatory way.”

Politico’s Josh Gerstein writes that the Obama campaign is aware it’s walking the tightrope with this issue...

“It’s an all-out push by Team Obama to find the ideal bin Laden balance: harnessing maximum political advantage from the anniversary while minimizing any backlash over politicizing the historic event.”

The Obama campaign’s web ad also features Mitt Romney quoted in the Associated Press as saying “it’s not worth moving heaven and earth spending billions of dollars just trying to catch one person.” Romney has since said “any president would have done that” in response to the mission killing bin Laden. But as Daily Telegraph writes — the Obama campaign’s strategy is to play up Mitt Romney’s alleged fear of risk...

“In the most strident attack so far on his Republican rival's credentials as a potential commander-in-chief, Obama suggested Romney would have demurred if given the opportunity to kill Laden. [Romney’s] biographers claim that he was in fact a risk-averse businessman, notorious for nervously playing with his tie when forced to make difficult decisions ... “

But The Hill reports Republicans have been quick to protect Romney on this issue...

“Seizing on the Obama campaign spot, [Senator John] McCain accused Obama of being hypocritical. ‘This is the same president who once criticized Hillary Clinton for invoking bin Laden to ‘score political points,’ he said.”

Also sparking backlash — Mr. Obama granted NBC’s Brian Williams a rare interview to commemorate bin Laden’s death inside The Situation Room. That interview is set to air Wednesday.

Edwards' Aide: 'I Was Scared for My Life'

Sat, 28 Apr 2012 05:00:05 -0500

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(Image source: The Charlotte Observer )

BY ZACH TOOMBS

He was once John Edwards’ right hand man. But now he’s the man whose testimony could put Edwards in prison for 30 years — and he says, at times, he feared for his life.

Andrew Young served as a campaign aide for Edwards’ unsuccessful run for the Democratic presidential nomination in 2008. Tasked with accompanying Edwards’ alleged mistress, Rielle Hunter, Young and his family traveled cross country with the woman for months.

Friday’s testimony covered new ground in the case. Young told jurors he felt threatened to keep quiet about Hunter in the summer and fall of 2008 — and even feared for his life. CNN has a summary of a story Young told in court — when Edwards invited him to meet on his property.

“They drove country roads for about 10 minutes … and Andrew Young said he thought either there was people out there who might shoot him, or, at the very least, that the senator was going to tape record him.”

Later in his testimony, Young became emotional when he asked why he spent much of Edwards’ illegal campaign cash on his own family — taking Edwards' mistress along with his own family on trips to Disneyland, Legoland and Aspen. According to ABC News, he said:

"For all the stress... put on my family. My wife, who is an amazing person … Sorry, (she) managed to keep my kids very balanced."

The Charlotte Observer reports Young’s decision to use campaign funds meant for Hunter complicates the validity of his own testimony.

“Toward the end of the Thursday court session, Young conceded that he sunk much of the money from two wealthy Edwards’ supporters into the walls, stone, roof and luxurious amenities of his $1.5 million Orange County, N.C., house.”

Friday also marked the first mention in court of the Edwards-Hunter sex tape. Hunter won a lawsuit earlier this year that called for the destruction of any copies of the tape. But Fox News reports court documents suggest the feds might still have a copy — and Edwards’ lawyers are using it to their advantage.

JONATHAN SERRIE: “What the defense was trying to do was establish all the evidence that Andrew Young had collected against his former boss … but the option of discussing the tape in the future may still be on the table.”

Edwards faces charges of using illegal campaign funds to hide the truth about his mistress. With Young taking the stand, the fallout between him and his former boss has been pushed to the center of the case. The Huffington Post writes:

“John Edwards and Rielle Hunter's torrid romance may be over, but their breakup was a happy one compared to what happened between Edwards and Andrew Young … As Edwards' criminal trial reaches the end of its first week, Young has been cast as a spurned lover who was used and discarded once his lie was laid bare.”

Friday was expected to be Young’s last day on the witness stand. If Edwards is convicted on all counts, he could face as many as 30 years in prison.

Media Anticipate Washington's Annual Nerd Prom

Sat, 28 Apr 2012 05:00:04 -0500

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(Image Source: White House Correspondents’ Association)

BY ALLIE SPILLYARDS

ANCHOR MEGAN MURPHY

Washington’s media elite and their guests are puttin’ on the ritz for DC’s annual Nerd Prom— AKA the White House Correspondents’ Dinner.

It all takes place Saturday night at DC’s Washington Hilton Hotel. According to New York Daily News....

This year’s high profile attendees include: George Clooney, Lindsey Lohan and Kim Kardashian... just to name a few.

But not everyone is mesmerized by the glitz and glamour. New York Magazine’s Frank Rich tells CNN’s Piers Morgan...

“To see button down Washington press people and political people just slover over anyone on a red carpet is just really kind of embarrassing.”

And one high-profile invite’s stirring up drama before the red carpet is even rolled out. The Atlantic Wire reports —

“Prom is a bad time to break up with your first true love but Newt Gingrich is doing it anyway. At this weekend's White House Correspondent's Dinner, Gingrich is jilting Fox News and canoodling with the network's competition: CNN and MSNBC.”

Late night talk show host Jimmy Kimmel is hosting this year’s event. He tells The Huffington Post — he’s more anxious about hosting the Correspondents Dinner than he is about hosting the Emmy’s later this year.

“I’m an outsider in Washington, for sure, and I think a mistake that one could make is pretending to be an insider when you aren’t one. I don’t want to do any jokes I might not actually get.”

A writer for the Washington Times suggests, Kimmel has reason to be nervous.

“In theory, the star-studded annual dinner is a plum gig, a once-in-a-lifetime chance for comics... In reality, it’s a nerve-wracking, sweat-through-your-tuxedo pressure cooker for comics and presidential joke penners alike. Off-color and ill-advised jokes can result in national controversy; political cracks can touch off outraged partisan food fights.”

And although Kimmel’s feeling the pressure, President Obama will also be in the spotlight, as nerd promers wait to see if he can live up to highlights like this from last year.

“No one is prouder to put this birth certificate issue to rest than the Donald. He can finally get back to focusing on issues that matter. Like, did we fake the moon landing?” (VIDEO SOURCE: C-SPAN)

GOP Threatens 'Contempt' Charge in Fast and Furious Scandal

Sat, 28 Apr 2012 00:00:01 -0500

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(Image source: Wikimedia Commons)

BY ZACH TOOMBS

House Republicans are threatening legal and legislative retribution against Attorney General Eric Holder — demanding he turn over more documents relating to the Fast and Furious operation, or face contempt charges. CNN has details.

“They claim he and the Justice Department have obstructed their investigation into the Fast and Furious gun tracking operation. That ATF plan allowed illegal gun purchases in order to track weapons to Mexican drug cartel leaders.”

Instead, those weapons ended up at several crime scenes — including a site where U.S. law enforcement officials were shot and killed.

Holder refutes claims made by Republicans that the Justice Department has not cooperated in handing over documents after the House Oversight committee issued a subpoena. South Carolina Republican Trey Gowdy delivered a warning Thursday on Fox News.

“Before Memorial Day, Eric Holder will either comply or he will suffer consequences and when I say consequences I mean contempt of Congress … There will be many amendments gutting the appropriations for his department.”

The Los Angeles Times reports Republican Rep. Darrell Issa — the Oversight Committee chairman — has drafted a 48-page Contempt of Congress citation for Attorney General Holder. The Times reports:

“If adopted by the GOP-led House, the contempt resolution would be sent to the U.S. attorney's office in Washington or perhaps an independent counsel in an attempt to force the Justice Department to provide tens of thousands of internal documents to the committee.”

The Justice Department has turned over about one-tenth of the 80,000 documents requested by House Republicans. According to CBS, Democrats on the House Oversight Committee are labeling the contempt of Congress charge a political stunt meant to embarrass the Obama administration. Rep. Elijah Cummings says:

"Leaking a draft contempt citation that members of our committee have never seen suggests that you are more interested in perpetuating your partisan political feud in the press than in obtaining any specific substantive information relating to the committee's investigation.”

The Los Angeles Times also cites an anonymous source who says House Speaker John Boehner has greenlighted the Contempt of Congress charge. But The Daily Caller isn’t so sure, reporting House leadership might not see eye-to-eye with Issa.

“After the initial reports, a House Republican leadership aide told The Daily Caller that the LA Times and CBS reports were inaccurate. The GOP leadership aide said that ‘while there are very legitimate arguments ... no decision has been made to move forward with one by the Speaker or by House Republican leaders.’”

Student Loan Interest Rate Cuts Causes Controversy

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 21:00:00 -0500

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(Image Source: Estudentaid.com)

BY LOGAN TITTLE

Students will continue to receive low interest rates on their educational loans thanks to a bill passed Friday by the U.S. House—saving scholars a very pretty penny.

Obama explained at the University of North Carolina just how much students can save.

“The average student, with these loans, will rack up an additional $1,000 in debt…That’s basically a tax hike for 7 million students in America.”

(video source: CNN)

And while both parties agreed with keeping the cuts implemented five years ago—they don’t exactly see eye-to-eye with how the cuts are gonna stay in place.

The San Francisco Chronicle reports...

“Obama said…he would veto the House bill because it takes money from a public-health fund to pay for the interest rate freeze…the White House called the proposal ‘politically motivated.’”

Politico explains the Republican plan would eliminate the last $11.9 billion in the prevention health fund which helps pay for medical expenses of women and children.

Something the Democrats view as an attack.

Democratic Representative George Miller said on the House floor—

"’Don’t [stop the interest rate hike] at the risk of birth defects for newborn infants…Don’t do it at the risk of young women and older women being screened for breast cancer and cervical cancer…We’ll find another way to do this.’”

But CBS News reveals this isn’t the first time cuts have been made to the health fund.

House Speaker John Boehner pointed out—

“ … Congress at the end of last year voted to cut spending from the Prevention and Public Health Fund to help pay for the payroll tax credit … ‘So to accuse us of wanting to gut women's health is absolutely not true.’”

And Alan Colmes of the Alan Colmes Show told Fox News—this really isn’t anything new.

“Its part of a campaign for president, which is I believe what the other side is doing as well…All money that is toward the campaign comes from out of different funds…This happens every single president, every single campaign.”

The interest rate for student loans will remain at 3.4 percent unless otherwise vetoed.

Obama Ad: Would Romney Have Gone After Bin Laden?

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 20:00:00 -0500

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(Image source: BarackObama.com)

BY CHRISTINA HARTMAN

It’s been almost a year since this:

OBAMA: “The United States has conducted an operation that killed Osama bin Laden, the leader of Al Qaeda...”

Now — as President Obama seeks re-election — his campaign’s latest web ad called “One Chance” uses a familiar face to tell voters — authorizing the raid that killed Osama bin Laden wasn’t an easy decision.

FRMR. PRESIDENT BILL CLINTON: “Suppose the Navy Seals had gone in there and it hadn't been bin Laden. Suppose they had been captured or killed. … He took the harder and the more honorable path...

The video quotes Obama’s likely Republican general election rival Mitt Romney from an April 2007 interview with the Associated Press, where he’s quoted as saying “It’s not worth moving heaven and earth spending billions of dollars just trying to catch one person.”

The implication — says Yahoo! News’ Oliver Knox is that Romney wouldn’t have killed bin Laden.

No More Mister Nice blog says: “What this tells us is that Romney is no leader.”

But Ed Morrissey of conservative blog Hot Air counters — this is a moot point. Of course Romney wouldn’t kill the 9/11 mastermind, because...

“...Osama bin Laden is already dead.”

Morrissey goes on to call that Romney quote “crap” — saying it was taken out of context and that Romney wasn’t actually saying he wouldn’t have gone after bin Laden. Turns out — that was a little press-on-press fight back in 2007, too. TownHall has Romney’s full response to the AP’s question, which was “Why haven’t he caught bin Laden yet?” TownHall says the rest of Romney’s response was...

“...I wouldn’t want to over-concentrate on Bin Laden. … It is worth fashioning and executing an effective strategy to defeat global, violent Jihad and I have a plan for doing that.”

Romney’s camp is pushing back against the ad — with campaign press secretary Andrea Saul calling it a sad attempt to divide Americans. But The Christian Science Monitor’s Peter Grier says — at least politically...

“...the ad is well timed and constructed. The anniversary of the SEAL raid is Tuesday, meaning the subject will get more media coverage than it has in some time.”

Top News Headlines: Issa Confirms Possible Holder Citation

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 15:15:00 -0500

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(Image source: Darrell Issa)

BY STEVEN SPARKMAN

ANCHOR NATHAN BYRNE

This is Newsy and here are your top headlines.

The Los Angeles Times reports a group of House Republicans lead by Darrell Issa have drafted documents to cite Attorney General Eric Holder for contempt of Congress. Issa confirmed to Fox News that such documents exist, but wouldn’t give details.

“We haven’t seen this document, so we can’t be sure the same it is [sic]. But of course we have gone through and made the case for the various reasons that we have no choice left.”

The House also passed a bill preventing student loan rates from doubling later this year, but President Obama has vowed to veto it. A CNN analyst says both parties agree on keeping rates down, but there’s still a fight brewing.

“There is a fight over this bill, and it’s not exactly a what to do, it’s how to pay for it.”
“How do they pay for it?”
“They would go after the health care law...”

President Obama signed an executive order targeting for-profit schools that he says target veterans with aggressive and deceptive recruiting.

The order will trademark the term “GI Bill.” The president said some schools run deceptive websites and harass veterans in order to get their GI Bill benefits. (Video source: MSNBC)

And new rules have been placed on the Secret Service after reports the scandal in Cartagena, Colombia, was nothing out of the ordinary. HLN reports Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee said agents will be banned from going to -quote “any place of bad acts,” and are going to be chaperoned.

“A professional development officer or personnel officer is going to go on every trip that the agents take out of the country.”

Stay with Newsy for more multisource news analysis throughout the day. For Newsy, I’m Nathan Byrne, highlighting the top headlines, making you smarter, faster.

Walk Softly: Biden Says Obama 'Has a Big Stick'

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 14:25:00 -0500

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(Image Source: New York Times)

BY ALLIE SPILLYARDS

It was a speech meant to speak to the strengths of President Barack Obama’s foreign policy. But Vice President Joe Biden’s comments, quoting Teddy Roosevelt, elicited more giggles than praise. CBS has that moment.

“‘Speak softly and carry a big stick.’ (end of quote) I promise you, the President has a big stick. I promise you.”

Those laughs came from students at New York University, where Biden was presenting a campaign speech. But they didn’t stop there. The media seemed unable to control themselves after this latest vice-presidential gaffe.

MIKA BRZEZINSKI: “I’m just going to move on to something else because I have a feeling this group can’t handle Vice President Biden’s comments.”

DANA PERINO: (Laughter)
GREG GUTFELD: “I don’t see what’s so funny Dana. What’s that mean? Can you explain it to me? Is there some kind of double entendre I’m missing Dana?”

And late-night television hosts didn’t let this one slip by.

JAY LENO: “It’s now time for another segment of something we like to call Mr. Inappropriate. Tonight version features Vice President Joe Biden out on the campaign trail.”

JIMMY FALLON: “In related news, Biden’s now banned from the White House steam room. They don’t even want him... they don’t even want him coming by there anymore.”

The Daily Beast points out, this isn’t Biden’s first time to get tongue-tied. But his verbal missteps are what they say, makes him so lovable.

“But if he hadn’t made these cringeworthy gaffes, he wouldn’t be the off-the-cuff, straight-shooting, error-prone vice president we know. For better or worse, Joe, ‘God love ya.’”

New York Mag was one of several publications to satire the speech, but the writer brought to surface the real point.

“In an important foreign policy address at NYU this morning, Vice-President Joe Biden discussed ... some stuff about foreign policy, probably. Nobody knows, because the only thing that anyone paid attention to or will remember was [what] Biden proclaimed.”

And as the laughter dies down, Democratic strategist Jen Psaki tells CNN’s Wolf Blitzer, let’s get past this.

WOLF BLITZER: “These words can have double entendres, shall we say.”
JEN PSAKI: “Well, Wolf look. I think we can all rely on the Vice President to bring empathy, bring experience, and bring some humor from time to time. So I hope that’s what people take it as.”

Shadow Shogun Survives Scandal

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 07:01:00 -0500

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Image Source: Wikimedia Commons

By Kevin Donnellan

He’s known as the Shadow Shogun in Japan because of his behind the scenes clout in party politics. And in a case that has gripped the country for three years, politician Ichiro Ozawa was found not guilty Thursday of fraud. The Australian reports...

“While Mr. Ozawa's former aides falsified funds reports for his political funds management body, Mr Ozawa did not have a hand in the act.”

The verdict got blanket media coverage in Japan where Ozawa is something of a cult political figure. Wall Street Journal says...

“Love him or hate him, there’s no politician in Japan who generates more media attention than Ichiro Ozawa.”

This verdict could have a bearing on the political landscape in Japan where Ozawa still wields major influence. CNN reports...

“Ozawa, who was forced to resign as head of the governing Democratic Party of Japan in 2009 because of the scandal, is now in a position to reassert his considerable clout within the party.”

How much clout? Well, Ozawa is still a member of parliament and controls a block of about 20 percent of its members. And even though he and Prime Minister Yoshihiko Noda are in the same party, the shadow shogun seems to be setting his sights on the P.M. Here’s the New York Times...

“The acquittal is a blow to Mr. Noda and his plan to double Japan’s 5 percent sales tax, a step that he says is crucial to paring the country’s burgeoning public debt, which has grown to over $12 trillion, more than twice the size of its economy.

But according to BBC’s Japanese business expert, the power of Mr Ozawa is on the wane...

“I think he has now become a spent force in terms of being somebody who will look to get the top job in the future, I don’t think he’s that anymore.”

New Secret Service Prostitution Scandal in El Salvador?

Thu, 26 Apr 2012 15:38:41 -0500

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(Image source: The White House)

BY CHRISTINA HARTMAN

“Wasted” and “heavily intoxicated” with prostitutes is how an unnamed witness describes members of the president’s Secret Service advance team.

And not just in Colombia — but also according to a Seattle CBS-affiliate — in El Salvador. First — here’s the headline:

WBNS: “...during a trip to El Salvador last year, agents engaged in activities similar to conduct in Colombia that forced a dozen agents out of the organization.”

WJXT: “The station interviewed an anonymous U.S. government contractor. That contractor claims about a dozen Secret Service agents and some military personnel took strippers back to their hotel rooms.”

The Secret Service says it’s investigating. This — of course — as the prostitution scandal in Colombia continues to develop and dominate headlines.

The alleged El Salvador debauchery reportedly happened before the president’s arrival to El Salvador in March of last year.

KIRO-TV’s Chris Halsne broke the story — and he told CBS “This Morning” his government subcontractor source didn’t feel comfortable talking until the Colombia story started really gaining traction.

“He says about a dozen Secret Service agents plus some of the military specialists that accompanied those advance team members got in vans and went to a popular strip club.”

Halsne says he verified the story with the owner of that strip club — who he says told him U.S. embassy staff as well as DEA and FBI agents were also involved. And while the owner says prostitution isn’t allowed in his club — Halsne says his witness told him he actually saw the exchanging of money for sexual favors.

On KIRO’s website, he expands: “Although our source says he told the agents it was a ‘really bad idea’ to take the strippers back to their hotel rooms, several agents bragged that they ‘did this all the time’ and ‘not to worry about it.’”

In an opinion piece for The Wall Street Journal — Deputy editorial page editor Dan Henniger calls this “The Age of Indiscretion” — asking: “Doesn’t ANYONE look before they leap anymore?”

“More often than not these days, the answer is, nahhh. … The legions of the indiscreet today include athletes, politicians, bureaucrats, reality TV stars, YouTubers, probably your co-workers, and even the Secret Service agents.”

KIRO says it’s viewed records that quote “add credibility” to the subcontractor’s story — but on its website doesn’t elaborate — pointing instead to a series of stories it says it’ll start airing Thursday evening. As of Thursday afternoon the Secret Service hasn’t commented publicly.

RNC Chair: Obama 'Crossed the Line' With Taxpayer Dollars

Thu, 26 Apr 2012 15:30:34 -0500

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(Image source: Wikimedia Commons)

BY VICTORIA CRAIG

Did President Barack Obama commit campaign fraud?
That’s the allegation coming from RNC Chairman Reince Preibus after a recent presidential tour.
MSNBC explains the controversy.

“President Obama made trips to campuses in North Carolina, Colorado and Iowa to talk about the cost of college. The Republican National Committee filed a formal complaint alleging taxpayer dollars are being used for his campaign events.”

Preibus filed the formal complaint this week to the GAO — the Government Accountability Office. In it, he expresses “concern” about the president’s trips, which the RNC chair calls campaign rallies.

The New York Times says the line between official presidential duties and campaign stops are increasingly blurred — and explains why some believe the president is mixing politics and policy.

“The president sandwiched [a] 34-minute speech, billed as an official address on his so-called Buffett Rule ...amid three overtly partisan fund-raisers that accounted for the bulk of his time along the south Florida coast...The trips yield a payoff not only in donations...but also in local headlines trumpeting Mr. Obama’s message of the day.”

So, campaigner-in-chief on the taxpayer dime? Or official stops for presidential duties? You decide.
Check out this snippet from Mr. Obama’s stop in North Carolina.

“That’s what drives me every single day: Your hopes, your dreams. And I’m not quitting now because in America we don’t quit.”

Cheering crowds, partisan talking points.
Still, not everyone is buying the argument the president is in perpetual campaign mode.
The Huffington Post asks readers to think back to 2004...

“George W. Bush encountered the same when he was running for re-election in 2004. The White House and Obama's campaign insist that they are in compliance with the law. The campaign (and Democratic National Committee) cover the cost of the president's campaign travel.”

So here’s a look at the headlines eight years ago...

USAToday: “Bush enjoys travel advantage on taxpayer-financed Air Force One.”

Washington Post: “Bush election officials broke electioneering law, federal agency reports”

Spokesman Review: "Taxpayers to pick up Bush's travel"

If it’s a method used over and over again, why hasn’t the American public caught on yet? CNN explains there’s an important distinction to be made...but it isn’t always clear-cut.

“There’s sort of this issue of who’s paying for it — is it the taxpayers? Or is this a real official event? And we’ve heard that every time the president goes out on these trips to key battleground states and I think that’s what’s really irked the Republican Party.”

But anchors for “Fox and Friends” say official events or campaign rallies, it’s the perpetual campaigning — for all presidents — that’s really irking the American taxpayer.

“If that’s the case, then maybe it’s time for a little rule change. Because it does seem like campaigning is almost imminent right after inauguration. And that bugs some people.”

A White House correspondent for CBS News notes — since the president filed for re-election a year ago, he’s made 60 domestic trips, including 26 fundraisers.

MTV Hopes New Online Game Will Energize Youth Vote

Thu, 26 Apr 2012 06:01:53 -0500

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(Image Source: Lostremote)

BY GILLIAN STEDMAN

ANCHOR CHRISTINA HARTMAN

MTV launched its “Fantasy Election Game” Tuesday with hopes of boosting the 2012 youth vote. The online game is part of MTV’s “Power of 12” campaign which aims to encourage young people to follow the elections. MTV’s Andrew Jenks explains.

“Every step of the way I’ll be making sure that they’re hearing our concerns, all 45 million of us. It’s our country, it’s our future, it’s our voice. It’s the power of 12.”

The game will reward players who get involved in Election 2012 with real prizes, including tickets to the MTV Music Awards. Bonus points will be allocated to those who “check in” at election events and polling stations on FourSquare and GetGlue. The Futon Critic quotes the CEO of Knight Foundation - the main funder of the game...

“It's a fantasy game but the stakes couldn't be higher. If a fun format, competitive prizes, and credible information give young people the habit of engagement in civic life, it will be a big win."

But not everyone thinks the “gamification” of politics is a good idea. Marc Andreessen, founder of Mosaic internet browser says “software will eat the world”. According to a Forbes article…

“One of the ways that this is playing out is in the social media-izing of everything, from friendship to shopping, activism to politics.”

But according to “Game Politics,” MTV’s efforts to involve youth in politics have come at a cost. Their youth campaigns have faced criticism in the past from conservative and conservative-leaning groups, with many claiming that MTV is in favor of the Democrats.

The online game is available for registration.

Hitler's 'Mein Kampf' Re-Released: Criticism Attached

Thu, 26 Apr 2012 03:00:04 -0500

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BY NIELS SCHACK NORGAARD

ANCHOR CHRISTINA HARTMAN

One of the most notorious books of all time is set for a controversial re-release.
The German state of Bavaria, which owns the copyright on the book, will publish Adolf Hitler’s autobiographical work “Mein Kampf” with notes countering Hitler’s arguments. Here’s Euronews:

“The decision to reprint Hitler’s work comes as the copyright is set to expire in 2015. Concerns that once anyone is free to publish the book neo-Nazis would churn out books favorable to the nazi leader.”

Mein Kampf will also be published in a separate version for schools, educating children about the frightening thoughts of Adolf Hitler – of course along with historians’ commentary and criticism, writes The Guardian.

“‘The expiration of the copyright in three years’ time might well lead to more young people reading Mein Kampf,’ [Bavaria’s finance minister, Markus Söder, said], adding that he hoped the school version would help to demystify the book and emphasise the ’global catastrophe that this dangerous way of thinking led to.’”

Germany has some of Europe’s strictest bans on hate speech. Earlier this year, when British publisher Peter McGee was refused permission to sell excerpts of Mein Kampf, a journalist at German newspaper The Local wrote, it’s time Germany has a showdown with banning hate speech.

He claimed it only mystifies extremist propaganda and makes it more appealing.

“The solution is simple: Allow every perspective to be heard freely. Let the neo-Nazis spout their hate. Let them wave their flags. Let Mein Kampf be read freely by the masses. But let's make sure we shout them down and educate the next generation to think critically and reject their evil propaganda.”

Karl Freller, director of a Bavarian foundation that administers the memorials at two former Nazi concentration camps, told Der Spiegel he hopes bookstores will cooperate with the Bavarian state.

“We are relying on them to voluntarily refrain from selling or printing ‘Mein Kampf’ and choosing to offer the new academic edition instead.”

Many in the Jewish community in Germany also think re-releasing a critical version of Mein Kampf is a good idea. Dieter Graumann, head of the Central Council of Jews in Germany, calls the decision ‘responsible’, according to the Herald Sun. The books will be published just before or in 2015.

Newt Gingrich to Suspend Presidential Campaign

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 18:20:00 -0500

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BY VICTORIA CRAIG

ANCHOR LAUREN GORES

And then there were two. Wednesday, the GOP fight for the nomination got a little less crowded.

“Newt Gingrich will formally suspend or end his campaign.”

“The announcement may happen in Washington on Tuesday with Gingrich’s family and supporters there to hear him out.”

“Gingrich will, quote, ‘more than likely endorse Mitt Romney at that time.’”

But just because he’s getting out of the race doesn’t mean he’s letting go of the spotlight. MSNBC reports the candidate will still push ahead with his campaign schedule this week.

“Newt Gingrich is campaigning in North Carolina all week and he says he’s going to continue to do that. This weekend he’s going to talk to donors, talk with people, all the staff, until he does in fact get out of the race officially.”

With $4.3 million in debt, the Gingrich campaign faced a difficult battle against the Romney campaign going forward. USA Today outlines the factors that led to Gingrich’s decision to end his run.

“Gingrich's campaign has been gasping for air for weeks. Last month, he laid off a third of his staff and cut back on his travel schedule in a bid to engage voters through social media. He recently campaigned heavily in Delaware, but lost last night's primary there to Romney by 30 percentage points...In the past three months, Gingrich has only won his home state of Georgia.”

Romney’s five-state primary win Tuesday night only added to the mounting difficulty facing the Gingrich camp. Still, Bloomberg’s Washington editor says the concession was anything but surprising — given Romney’s stance in the race.

“It was sort of like a team being ahead 20 - 3 in the fourth quarter and then scoring another touchdown. It’s nice, you can do a victory lap, but we already knew who was going to win the game.”

Even so, a writer for NBC’s politics blog says the American public hasn’t seen the last of Newt Gingrich.

“But like a cat with nine lives, throughout his career, Gingrich has shown a penchant for achieving unthinkable political resurrections. While he might have cashed in several lives during this campaign -- and had certainly spent more in his preceding political life -- it seems unthinkable that the public has seen the last of this man.”

Gingrich called Romney Wednesday morning to inform him of his endorsement. To that, Romney said he supported whatever decision the former speaker made.

Georgetown Faculty Upset Over Ryan's Budget Comments

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 17:45:00 -0500

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(Image source: Politico)

BY VICTORIA CRAIG

ANCHOR LAUREN GORES

Separation of church and state? Tell that to Paul Ryan. The Republican chair of the House Budget Committee is under fire for comments he made about his religion and its role in relating to his budget plan. Here’s NPR with the rundown.

“Liberal religious leaders said the Republican plan...was an affront to the gospel...Not so, says Wisconsin Republican Paul Ryan...He recently told Christian Broadcasting Network, that it was his Catholic faith that helped shape the budget plan.”

Ryan is set to speak at Georgetown University on Thursday. But 90 faculty members from the school are more than unhappy with the congressman’s comments.

And they sent a letter to Ryan Tuesday expressing their dissatisfaction. They say the congressman is misinterpreting church doctrines with his budget, which slows spending, lowers taxes, and cuts social welfare programs.

“In short, your budget appears to reflect the values of your favorite philosopher, Ayn Rand, rather than the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Her call to selfishness and her antagonism toward religion are antithetical to the Gospel values of compassion and love.”

A contributor for MSNBC sides with the Georgetown faculty. He says it’s “unusual” the way Ryan crafted his budget with deeper cuts this year — wondering why he’s drawing battle lines when he knows his budget won’t pass.

“The Republicans often want to use the Catholic Church to their advantage on issues such as abortion, but then forget there is another half of the equation and they have been fairly consistent on that.”

The letter from the Georgetown faculty isn’t the start of the controversy, but rather one in a long series.

Catholic bishops sent letters of their own to the Congressman just last week. In a joint letter, they say...

“Congress faces a difficult task to balance needs and resources and allocate burdens and sacrifices. Just solutions, however, must require shared sacrifice by all, including raising adequate revenues, eliminating unnecessary military and other spending, and fairly addressing the long-term costs of health insurance and retirement programs. The House-passed budget resolution fails to meet these moral criteria."

But a writer for the Washington Post fiercely disagrees — saying...

“Put aside for a moment the fact that ‘shared sacrifice’ appears nowhere in the catechism of the Catholic Church. It is a reelection slogan for the Democratic Party. Put aside, as well, the fact that the bishop of Stockton, Calif., has near-zero competence to judge what military spending is necessary or unnecessary. The fact is Ryan’s budget does not cut spending at all — it simply slows the growth of spending.”

Despite all the letters and dissatisfaction with his plan, Ryan is standing firm. He defended his comments — and his budget — on Fox News.

“We think quadrupling spending in this area has not succeeded in getting people out of poverty. One in six people, Martha, are in poverty today. Poverty is at the highest it’s been in a generation under the president’s failed policies.”

Despite the not-so-warm welcome, Ryan says he’s looking forward to his visit to Georgetown.

Fallon and Obama Slow Jam the News

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 15:32:00 -0500

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BY JIM FLINK

ANCHOR MEG MURPHY

President Barack Obama is doing the late-night TV tour. Which comes with some schtick.

Here’s part of his appearance on the North Carolina campus during a special edition of Late Night With Jimmy Fallon on NBC.

Obama: “Now is not the time to make school more expensive for our young people.”
Fallon: “You should listen to the President, or as I like to call him, the Preezie of the United Steezie.”

Some in the media, like two anchors on CNN, saw humor in the gig. Albeit acknowledging the Preezie’s political stance.

Anchor 1: “That was my favorite Jimmy Fallon show so far. And you know what I liked, he was kind of calmly staring ahead, the whole time behind Jimmy Fallon.”
Anchor 2: “I needed him to bop more.”

Of course, along with that came criticism. Like this, from one “Fox Nation” contributor and Washington Examiner writer.

“President Obama's 'celebrity status' reached perplexing new levels last night on comedian Jimmy Fallon's comedy show last night. After watching this sketch, I think it's fair to say that he has 'jumped the shark.'”

And “Fox and Friends’” Gretchen Carlson — who didn’t seem to approve.

“I don’t care. I think it’s nutso.”
“I just personally do not agree with the highest office in the land, the most important figure in the world, going on these comedy shows.”

Fox News pointed out on another show, this isn’t exactly new for sitting presidents. Here’s George Bush on the Jay Leno Show.

But Fallon has a bit of recent history with the GOP. Politico notes, the comedian and his band caught some heat for a 2011 introduction of then-GOP-presidential candidate Michele Bachmann.

“During a November appearance on Fallon's show, the Roots greeted Michele Bachmann with a wordless rendition of a Fishbone tune whose sanitized translation would be ‘Mendacious female dog.’”

All of which, has media pundits questioning the value of such appearances.
The Christian Science Monitor says Mr. Obama is trying to rally the young voter base and to appear hipper than his counterpart — Mitt Romney.

“What will the Romney camp do in response? Hmmm. Doing a Letterman ‘Top 10’ list would only partially counter the current hipster imbalance. Maybe he’ll get into a push-up contest with the folks on ‘Fox & Friends.’”

Rubio Veep Speculation Refuses to Die

Tue, 24 Apr 2012 14:48:00 -0500

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BY BLAKE HANSON AND CHRISTINA HARTMAN

Florida Senator Marco Rubio is trying his darndest to quell rumors he’ll be Mitt Romney’s running mate. Here’s Rubio with Sean Hannity on Monday.

“You know Sean, I think that Governor Romney has now begun a formal process, he’s asked some people to do that process for him and I think that we all should respect that.”

But in politics, no doesn’t always mean no. Which is why if you tuned into TV news the next morning, you probably heard a lot of this:

WBBH: “Add Marco Rubio to Mitt Romney’s audition reel of potential running mates...”

WBZ: “...Florida Senator Marco Rubio, who some see as a potential running mate.”

WFXP: “Rubio is rumored to be a potential vice-presidential pick.”

Still, the Tea Party darling has repeatedly denied he’s interested. But a writer for Bloomberg isn’t buying it, and says Rubio is one of many using that tactic...

“If there is one thing all Romney’s possible running mates have in common, it’s their determination not to comment on their chances or the selection process.”

That’s been the case with pretty much every other rumored running mate.

Including New Jersey Governor Chris Christie, Ohio Senator Rob Portman, and Wisconsin Representative Paul Ryan. All three men have said they’re focused on their current jobs.

But the rumors have grown especially feverish around Marco Rubio — who as a first-generation Cuban-American — analysts say would go a long way to winning over the Latino vote for the GOP. So what are the reasons not to pick him? Political directors from both CBS and NBC echo one concern.

JOHN DICKERSON: “Marco Rubio has no real executive experience. And that was one of the big knocks against candidate Obama and one of the reasons Republicans say the president has been a failure because he lacked that executive experience and that is a hurdle that Marco Rubio just can't clear right now.”

CHUCK TODD: “The drawbacks: inexperience. Do you want to pick somebody who basically has the same amount of time in statewide office that a person who was on the ticket last time by the name of Sarah Palin had.”

But the Miami New Times points out, Rubio IS a popular figure within the GOP.

The Times points to a Quinnipiac poll that has him as the second most popular among potential running mates.

The first most popular according to that poll — is Chris Christie. But in a piece for The American Prospect, writer Jamelle Bouie wonders — when it comes to getting out the GOP vote — does it really matter who Romney chooses as his running mate?

“...conservative anger towards Obama is so fierce that they’ll turn out, regardless of who Romney chooses for the vice presidential nomination.”

Gingrich Hints at Dropping From the Race

Tue, 24 Apr 2012 12:00:00 -0500

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(Image source: Orlando Sentinel)

BY BLAKE HANSON

Newt Gingrich said he’d hang on until the conventions in his race for the GOP nomination — but now there’s speculation he’ll drop sooner.

“We may be witnessing the final hours of Newt Gingrich's campaign.”
“We could be expecting a big announcement from Newt Gingrich.”

That’s after an exclusive interview with NBC News, where Gingrich said...

“‘I think we need to take a deep look at what we are doing ... We will be in North Carolina tomorrow night and we will look and see what the results are.’ He acknowledged that he would have to ‘reassess’ his campaign depending on how he fares in Delaware, a winner-take-all state with 17 delegates at stake.”

So does Gingrich stand a chance in Delaware Tuesday night? Politico offers this analysis...

“Sure, a win by the former House speaker ... in Delaware is still a long shot. But even some Romney backers are becoming increasingly concerned that Gingrich could catch them flatfooted and pull out a surprise victory in the state.”

While the delegate count is low for Gingrich — just 137 compared to Mitt Romney’s 698 — Fox News’ Doug Luzader tells KDFW money is a whole other issue.

“Ron Paul, I don’t think people would be surprised if he stays all the way to the convention but you know, Gingrich is having to face some realities here primarily because of some massive campaign debt he’s built up.”

The financial woes have led Gingrich to lay off most of his staff. CBS News senior political reporter Brian Montopoli says the Gingrich camp is hoping to come back financially by relying on “a bounce”.

“The Gingrich camp is predicting a ‘bounce’ out of Delaware that would prompt donors to take a second -- or, more accurately, fourth -- look at Gingrich despite the perception that Romney has the nomination secured.”

The Gingrich campaign is more than $4 million in debt.

Sarkozy, Hollande Battle for Far-Right Le Pen Supporters

Tue, 24 Apr 2012 06:00:03 -0500

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BY NIELS SCHACK NORGAARD

ANCHOR CHRISTINA HARTMAN

French far-right politician Marine Le Pen might be out of the race herself — but she stunned France by securing nearly 18 percent of the vote in Sunday’s first-round presidential election. France24 says she...

“...now has the potential to swing what is likely to be a close second round on May 6. ’Tonight is historic,’ Le Pen gushed to her supporters. ‘We are the only opposition to the ultra-liberal, libertarian left-wing’.”

Socialist challenger François Hollande won the first round with 28 percent of the votes to centre-right President Nicolas Sarkozy’s 27 percent, meaning those two will go head-to-head for the second-round elections.

But the results also mean Marine Le Pen has the potential to play a big part in who’s going to become the next president of France. BBC’s correspondent says her voters may not automatically go for Sarkozy even though he is the candidate closest to the right wing.

“A lot of them may abstain in the second round and some of them will probably even vote for François Hollande because of that dislike for Sarkozy. … It’s her supporters now who could play a pivotal role in deciding who will win this election.”

Marine Le Pen had been advocating for tougher immigration laws, getting rid of the Euro and isolating France financially. So, it’s those voters Sarkozy will have to pursue. A French political analyst tells CNN, Sarkozy is embarking on a very difficult mission.

“...courting both extreme-right voters and centrists whose votes he desperately needs... The latest poll after the first round shows that Hollande would win by a margin of between 6 percent. However, nothing is written yet.”

So François Hollande might be justified in his optimism when speaking after the first-round victory. The Guardian has the footage:

"The second round represents a punishment for the term that is ending and a rejection for the outgoing candidate, whose speeches over the last months played to the far right.”

Marine Le Pen has yet to tell her supporters who she would prefer them to vote for. And according to RTE, National Front Vice-President Louis Alliot said she wouldn’t endorse either as things stand.

“Based on the ideas in our programme, neither one defends or develops them, so it seems unlikely.”

The second and final vote is scheduled for May 6th.

Top News Headlines: Zimmerman Released on Bail

Mon, 23 Apr 2012 07:24:47 -0500

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BY STEVEN SPARKMAN

ANCHOR DAVID EARL

This is Newsy, and here are your top headlines.

George Zimmerman has been released from Sanford, Florida’s correctional facility after posting $150,000 bail. A Fox News analyst says — he’ll still be kept under supervision.

“George Zimmerman will be closely monitored by police and the county sheriff's department there in Seminole County. They will monitor his every move using a GPS tracking device that he must wear at all times.”

The first round of France’s presidential election voting is over, and results show President Nicolas Sarkozy trailing his socialist rival Francois Hollande. CNN reports — analysts are optimistic about Hollande’s chances.

“The odds aren’t looking good for Mr. Sarkozy. Most pundits predict Hollande has an excellent shot at becoming France’s first left-wing president in 17 years.”

Egypt’s state-run gas company announced it would cancel a deal to deliver natural gas to Israel, sparking fears of increased tension between the two countries.

Haaretz reports the director of the company said the decision was a business dispute over Israel’s failure to transfer funds, and wasn’t influenced by Egypt’s military or government.

And the trial of former Democratic presidential hopeful John Edwards begins today. Here’s HLN.

“He is accused of misusing campaign money, and using some of it to cover up his affair with Rielle Hunter. … Now, he could face up to 30 years in prison if convicted on all six counts.”

Stay with Newsy for more multisource news analysis throughout the day. For Newsy, I’m David Earl, highlighting the top headlines, making you smarter, faster.

Left-Wing Hollande Tops Sarkozy in First-Round Voting

Mon, 23 Apr 2012 06:00:06 -0500

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BY ZACH TOOMBS

Socialist candidate Francois Hollande edged out French President Nicolas Sarkozy in the presidential election’s first round of voting Sunday. The results mean those two candidates alone will enter a runoff election May 6. The BBC has the details on Hollande’s narrow win.

“Francois Hollande, the Socialist candidate … on 28.6 percent. Nicolas Sarkozy behind on 1.6 percent with 27 percent. Marine Le Pen on 19 percent.”

Hollande served as head of the French Socialist party from 1997 to 2008. In a rally with supporters Sunday evening, the left-wing candidate struck a celebratory tone. Sky News has his comments.

“It is an act of trust in the plan which I’ve prevented before French people to bring justice to our country and to control finance.”

ITV reports Hollande’s agenda offers a stark contrast to Sarkozy’s, promising tax reform and a stronger bond with Europe’s progressive elements. But the impressive showing from far-right candidate Marine Le Pen — who grabbed 19 percent of the vote — could help put Sarkozy over the top. ITV explains.

“Those far-right and far-left votes will get put into the mix for the right wing and left wing candidates, so if Hollande doesn’t inherit as much as he’d hoped and Sarkozy gets rather more than he hopes, well, he might not be out of this race at all.”

France 24 reports Le Pen wasn’t alone in beating expectations Sunday. Overall voter turnout rates topped expectations as well.

“Despite fears that a lacklustre campaign combined with school holidays would lead to a historically low turnout, the French flocked to polls. Official results showed that the abstention rate in the first round at 5pm was around 19%. That abstention figure was only slightly higher than the score recorded in 2007.”

A writer for The Guardian says a failing economy has already doomed a series of political heavyweights — from Gordon Brown to Silvio Berlusconi. He writes Sarkozy could be next to fall.

“A victory for Hollande would not just be another run-of-the-mill ousting of any old European incumbent. It would be the victory of a Socialist, and in one of the two most important countries in Europe. That makes it an event with big potential consequences not just for France, where the left has been out of power for 17 years, but for Europe.”

Sunday Soundbite Analysis 04/22/12

Sun, 22 Apr 2012 16:00:00 -0500

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BY ZACH TOOMBS

On the Sunday shows this week: fresh speculation over who will fill the GOP’s vice presidential role. Florida Senator Marco Rubio is considered a fan favorite, but on CNN’s “State of the Union,” he went from coy to no comment.

“Mitt Romney, the leader of the Republican Party, has a vice presidential process in place. And I think from this point moving forward, I think it would be wise for all Republicans to kind of respect that process.”

“The last thing he needs is those of us in the peanut gallery to be saying what we would or would not do.”

Pundits were quick to point out Rubio’s evolving response to the VP question, with Politico calling his comments ...

“… a slight shift from his staunch stated opposition to the No. 2 post …”

And ABC noted Rubio’s deflection came:

“... Days after he adamantly said he would turn down Mitt Romney if he offered him a spot on the GOP ticket this fall …”

On “Fox News Sunday,” Indiana Governor Mitch Daniels showed stronger opposition to his chances at the VP slot.

CHRIS WALLACE: “If he asks you to be his running mate, will you accept?”

MITCH DANIELS: “I think I would demand reconsideration and send Mr. Romney a list of people I think could suit better.”

And, after running with Al Gore in 2000 and endorsing John McCain in ‘08, Independent Senator Joe Lieberman says he’s keeping silent this time around.

CHRIS WALLACE: “Have you decided who you’re going to support this time: Romney or Obama?”

JOE LIEBERMAN: “I’m going to try something different this year."

WALLACE: “Hasn’t worked out so well the last time.”

LIEBERMAN: “I’m going to try to stay out of this one.”

The Hill says neither party is likely to embrace Lieberman in 2012 and that might be one reason he’s not jumping in the ring.

Lieberman, who is retiring at the end of this year, made few friends among Democrats when he came out strongly for Sen. John McCain (R-Ariz.) rather than Obama in the 2008 contest. He suggested the lingering bitterness of that endorsement has influenced his decision to remain silent this year.

And back on CNN’s “State of the Union,” Candy Crowley brought up Secretary of Defense Leon Panetta’s travel expenses. Senior Obama campaign adviser David Axelrod defends the $860,000 spent on Panetta’s flights since last July.

“At the age of 73, after a long career, he followed Bob Gates at the request of the president. I don’t think people are going to begrudge him going home and seeing his family.”

The Washington Post reports Panetta has only partially reimbursed the government for his flights home but that the high cost isn’t necessarily his fault.

"Under government rules established by President George W. Bush, the defense secretary is required to fly on military aircraft, which are outfitted with secure communication links to the White House and Pentagon. Under the same rules, Panetta must reimburse the government for what it would cost for a round-trip commercial flight to the same destination — usually a fraction of the expense of operating a military plane."

But Panetta’s travel expense is hardly the most high-profile scandal President Obama’s administration is dealing with. On NBC’s “Meet the Press,” David Gregory asked Axelrod how the president felt about news of the Government Services Administration’s $820,000 Las Vegas spending spree.

DAVID GREGORY: “Just how mad is the president about all this?”

DAVID AXELROD: “On the GSA issue, he was I think it’s fair to say apoplectic. Because we made a big effort to cut waste, inefficiency, fraud ...”

And on CBS’ “Face the Nation,” Senate Judiciary Committee member Tom Coburn was anything but apoplectic over the well-documented Secret Service scandal. The frequent Obama critic called the incident involving agents soliciting prostitution “an aberration” for the Service and said he was satisfied with the president’s response.

“I’m not critical of what the administration has done thus far ...

“The important thing is that we not allow an overreaction that would do more damage to the secret service than the appropriate response.”

Costs of Failed Campaigns Weigh on Former Candidates

Sun, 22 Apr 2012 09:00:00 -0500

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(Image source: The New York Times)

BY ZACH TOOMBS

For several GOP presidential candidates, when the campaign ended, another challenge began: paying off massive campaign debt. On Bloomberg, a writer for BusinessWeek explains the complicated process of ending a presidential run.

“You’ve got all sorts of invoices to pay off. You’ve got to close offices from all across the country. You have to let go of your many staff members who have been helping you out on the road.”

Those costs can leave a candidate millions of dollars in debt — and filings with the Federal Elections Commission this week provide details. After suspending his campaign April 10, Rick Santorum has become the latest victim. CNN reports the former candidate stands $1.9 million in the hole.

“A Santorum campaign conference call earlier this week ended with organizers asking for donations from supporters to help pay down Santorum’s campaign debt. After suspending his campaign, Santorum said a lack of finances was one of the reasons he ended his bid for the White House.”

Even a few candidates who dropped out of the GOP race months ago remain tied to heavy debt. Michele Bachmann’s campaign owed more than $1 million in March. The Salt Lake Tribune reports Jon Huntsman, who suspended his campaign in January, is in worse shape, despite his personal wealth.

“Huntsman has forked over another $1.5 million from his personal fortune to pay down campaign debt since abandoning his presidential bid, but he still owes more than $1.3 million to vendors. Huntsman, who has now loaned his campaign just over $4 million, said recently that he planned to pay down his debt through a combination of loans and fundraisers …”

But the GOP presidential hopeful in the deepest debt has yet to call it quits. Newt Gingrich is still campaigning with a skeleton crew of top advisers. Despite the candidate’s cuts to staff and campaign expenses, Politico reports:

“... Gingrich’s campaign … began to financially implode. Its debt rose dramatically to $4.3 million in March as the campaign struggled to raise money … Gingrich’s debts are numerous and various: About 50 creditors are owed five- or six-figure amounts. The candidate himself is owed $271,775, according to the report.”

A look back at the 2008 election cycle shows campaign debt has staying power. FEC records show Hillary Clinton still owes $245,000 to a consultant and has yet to close out her campaign. According to BusinessWeek, former Democratic candidate John Edwards’ campaign owes $333,000. And Rudy Guiliani — $2.6 million.