Daily Archives: June 17, 2007

Open thread 6/17

June 17, 20071:05 a.m.

By Phillip Brownlee | Filed under Open thread | Comments (50)

Meet the new congressional bosses, just like the old ones?

June 17, 20071:04 a.m.

One reason for Congress’ low approval ratings is that the public is sensing the Democratic leaders may not be much better than the old GOP ones. For example, Democrats are struggling to deliver on their promise to clean up the appropriations process. Rep. David Obey (in photo), D-Wis., chairman of the House Appropriations Committee, announced last week that he was holding all decisions about budget earmarks until after all conference committees present their spending bills for final vote, which could have created a "smoke-filled room" situation. Under pressure from Republicans — who were champions of pork when they were in charge — Obey is backing off and now plans to allow the process to be more open.
Posted by Andie Clum

By Phillip Brownlee | Filed under Congress | Comments (80)

How would Rudy keeps his commitments?

June 17, 20071:03 a.m.

Rudy Giuliani is ambitious, if nothing else. Consider his "12 Commitments to the American People." His generally stated commitments include eliminating illegal immigration, developing a better health care system, ensuring every community is prepared for terrorist attacks and natural disasters and, amid all these promises, tax cuts. And instead of Giuliani saying he would continue the war on terrorism, he promised to keep America on offense in the "Terrorists’ War on Us." What isn’t evident is how he would follow through with his commitments.
Posted by Andie Clum

By Phillip Brownlee | Filed under Presidential race | Comments (35)

If anybody wants Brownback, check Iowa

June 17, 20071:02 a.m.

Sam Brownback will spend Monday through Thursday on a bus, visiting 27 communities in — where else? — Iowa. "My road to the White House began in Parker, Kan., where I grew up on a farm, and now takes me through Iowa," Brownback said in a campaign statement. "It was growing up in the Heartland that I learned the conservative values and principles that will guide me as president. I am thrilled to meet with families, business owners, senior citizens and the hardworking people of the Hawkeye State." Meanwhile, the hardworking people of the Sunflower State have no choice but to put up with his presidential bid. He missed three more Senate votes early last week, bringing his total missed votes for the year to 67 of 212, or 31.6 percent.
But Brownback always can be found on YouTube these days, including in this twisted, unauthorized animation of a campaign statement.
Posted by Rhonda Holman

By Phillip Brownlee | Filed under Presidential race | Comments (42)

Making it hard to imagine a Century II casino

June 17, 20071:01 a.m.

In his preshow remarks at Music Theatre of Wichita’s performances of "Disney’s High School Musical," producing director Wayne Bryan has sounded a caution about the rumors of a possible Century II casino in a subtle but effective way. He mentions that the 77 talented area young performers in the exuberant staging are cause for celebrating that the "beautiful" 38-year-old building is used for its intended purpose. Judging from the positive vocal response his comment has drawn from the sold-out crowds, lots of people agree.
Posted by Rhonda Holman

By Phillip Brownlee | Filed under Wichita elections | Comments (70)