Michigan on this list!!!
Top 10 most competitive Senate races - David Catanese - POLITICO.com
Monday, January 31, 2011
Sunday, January 30, 2011
Where the Obama Administration Intends to Take the Country and How It Plans to Do So -- New York Magazine
This is an important article on the Presidency, interrelationship with Congress and re election politics. Also important to budgeting at federal level. Worth a read.
Where the Obama Administration Intends to Take the Country and How It Plans to Do So -- New York Magazine
Where the Obama Administration Intends to Take the Country and How It Plans to Do So -- New York Magazine
Mexico’s Universal Health Care Is Work in Progress - NYTimes.com
The budget implications of this program are huge but the Mexicans have come up with different approach to budget analysis. Only 9 percent of Mexico's population is over 60 so this is a great time for them to do this health care coverage expansion--before their population ages more. Lower costs. Note references to GDP to health care spending.
Mexico’s Universal Health Care Is Work in Progress - NYTimes.com
Mexico’s Universal Health Care Is Work in Progress - NYTimes.com
Budgeting: State vs. Local Govt: In California, a Proposed Cut Angers Local Officials - NYTimes.com
In two weeks when the Governor of Michigan issues his FY 12 budget recs you will see exactly the same arguments and angst in Michigan.
In California, a Proposed Cut Angers Local Officials - NYTimes.com
In California, a Proposed Cut Angers Local Officials - NYTimes.com
Political News Sites See 2012 as Breakthrough Year - NYTimes.com
the new force in political campaigns--blogs. very powerful.
Political News Sites See 2012 as Breakthrough Year - NYTimes.com
Political News Sites See 2012 as Breakthrough Year - NYTimes.com
Budgeting and Governing: Are Michigan's politicians ready to answer Gov. Snyder's call to 'invest' in state?' | MLive.com
very interesting column on how complicated governing is even when you control all the branches of government, in addition to both houses of the legislature. It is not going to be easy getting this budget done.
Are Michigan's politicians ready to answer Gov. Snyder's call to 'invest' in state?' | MLive.com
Are Michigan's politicians ready to answer Gov. Snyder's call to 'invest' in state?' | MLive.com
Congress: Boehner Misses Bachmann’s Speech - Washington Wire - WSJ
Congress and conflicts within the majority party. Speaker cannot be happy about this development.
Boehner Misses Bachmann’s Speech - Washington Wire - WSJ
Boehner Misses Bachmann’s Speech - Washington Wire - WSJ
Snyder: Foreign nationals could help Michigan economy | Detroit Free Press | freep.com
state's need to attract talent and get involved in immigration reform so we can attract talent and innovation. Agree or disagree? Budget issue or immigration issue?
Snyder: Foreign nationals could help Michigan economy | Detroit Free Press | freep.com
Snyder: Foreign nationals could help Michigan economy | Detroit Free Press | freep.com
Congress and Communications
a congressman who knows power of social media, internet and cable 24 hour news.
Poli-Bites: U.S. Rep. Hansen Clarke makes his mark on TV | Detroit Free Press | freep.com
Poli-Bites: U.S. Rep. Hansen Clarke makes his mark on TV | Detroit Free Press | freep.com
Budget Cutting in Local Govt
Detroit cost-cutting plan for buses reduces mechanics, merges routes
1:06 AM, Jan. 30, 2011 |
By JOHN WISELY
Detroit Free Press Staff Writer
FILED UNDER
Local News
Michigan
Each weekday, about 125,000 people ride Detroit buses. Nearly one in four buses is out of service, city officials say. / WILLIAM ARCHIE/Detroit Free Press
Detroit's bus system has too many routes, too many mechanics and can't account for nearly a quarter of its fare box revenue -- up to $9 million a year, according to city officials looking for ways to cut costs.
The bleak picture of the system, which moves about 125,000 people each weekday, is spelled out in a plan Detroit filed in November with the state to explain how it will attack a $76-million deficit in the city's public transit fund.
The plan said about 100 of the city's 445 buses are out of service, even though there is one mechanic for every 2.5 buses -- more mechanics than many other cities and Detroit's suburban bus counterpart, SMART. A union official said the city does not keep motors and transmissions in stock to allow mechanics to keep the buses running.
The plan calls for consolidating routes, reducing the number of mechanics and getting more riders to use prepaid debit-style cards to reduce the need to handle cash.
"Obviously, we're looking at a lot of efficiencies and a lot of improvements," said Dan Lijana, spokesman for Mayor Dave Bing.
Megan Owens, executive director of Transportation Riders United, said she fears more cuts could leave people stranded.
"They've already cut about one-third of the service over the past five years," she said.
Detroit buses lag on routine maintenance, report says
Detroit's bus mechanics have a relatively light workload compared with other transit systems, but they fail to perform routine maintenance, and that keeps about a quarter of city buses from running on any given day, according to a city report.
Mechanics acknowledge that roughly 100 buses sit idle without motors or transmissions, but attribute high costs to poor management and the excessive use of outside vendors to do repair work.
"The men are there and doing the work," said Leamon Wilson, president of AFSCME Local 312, which represents about 160 mechanics and 165 other department employees. "They take pride in their job and they are working the best they can with what they've got."
1:06 AM, Jan. 30, 2011 |
By JOHN WISELY
Detroit Free Press Staff Writer
FILED UNDER
Local News
Michigan
Each weekday, about 125,000 people ride Detroit buses. Nearly one in four buses is out of service, city officials say. / WILLIAM ARCHIE/Detroit Free Press
Detroit's bus system has too many routes, too many mechanics and can't account for nearly a quarter of its fare box revenue -- up to $9 million a year, according to city officials looking for ways to cut costs.
The bleak picture of the system, which moves about 125,000 people each weekday, is spelled out in a plan Detroit filed in November with the state to explain how it will attack a $76-million deficit in the city's public transit fund.
The plan said about 100 of the city's 445 buses are out of service, even though there is one mechanic for every 2.5 buses -- more mechanics than many other cities and Detroit's suburban bus counterpart, SMART. A union official said the city does not keep motors and transmissions in stock to allow mechanics to keep the buses running.
The plan calls for consolidating routes, reducing the number of mechanics and getting more riders to use prepaid debit-style cards to reduce the need to handle cash.
"Obviously, we're looking at a lot of efficiencies and a lot of improvements," said Dan Lijana, spokesman for Mayor Dave Bing.
Megan Owens, executive director of Transportation Riders United, said she fears more cuts could leave people stranded.
"They've already cut about one-third of the service over the past five years," she said.
Detroit buses lag on routine maintenance, report says
Detroit's bus mechanics have a relatively light workload compared with other transit systems, but they fail to perform routine maintenance, and that keeps about a quarter of city buses from running on any given day, according to a city report.
Mechanics acknowledge that roughly 100 buses sit idle without motors or transmissions, but attribute high costs to poor management and the excessive use of outside vendors to do repair work.
"The men are there and doing the work," said Leamon Wilson, president of AFSCME Local 312, which represents about 160 mechanics and 165 other department employees. "They take pride in their job and they are working the best they can with what they've got."
Saturday, January 29, 2011
Tax Credits
The Michigan Department of Treasury issues an annual report on so-called tax expenditures -- the credits, deductions and exemptions that reduce the hypothetical maximum burden on Michigan taxpayers. The total for 2011 is estimated at $33.8 billion. Gov. Rick Snyder has ordered a review of tax credits and may propose that some be reduced or eliminated.
Here's a handful under scrutiny:
Film credits: $100 million. The nation's most generous subsidies for movie and TV productions are popular with the public but rapidly escalating in price.
Investment Tax Credit: $240 million. Businesses claim this credit for the purchase of new equipment, computers, etc., purchased to expand operations.
Small Business Alternate Tax Credit: $463 million. A means of sparing small businesses from taxation. It is likely to survive.
Earned Income Tax Credit: $353 million. A program that forgives state income tax liability for low-income Michiganders.
Here's a handful under scrutiny:
Film credits: $100 million. The nation's most generous subsidies for movie and TV productions are popular with the public but rapidly escalating in price.
Investment Tax Credit: $240 million. Businesses claim this credit for the purchase of new equipment, computers, etc., purchased to expand operations.
Small Business Alternate Tax Credit: $463 million. A means of sparing small businesses from taxation. It is likely to survive.
Earned Income Tax Credit: $353 million. A program that forgives state income tax liability for low-income Michiganders.
Wednesday, January 19, 2011
Snyder gets earful of advice | detnews.com | The Detroit News
Budgeting and taxes are the key drivers in this speech.
Snyder gets earful of advice | detnews.com | The Detroit News
Snyder gets earful of advice | detnews.com | The Detroit News
Snyder's tax plan business tax plan gets mixed reviews | freep.com | Detroit Free Press
Voters and taxes. Always a difficult relationship. Always causes strong feelings and debate amongst voters.
Snyder's tax plan business tax plan gets mixed reviews | freep.com | Detroit Free Press
Snyder's tax plan business tax plan gets mixed reviews | freep.com | Detroit Free Press
Michigan Education Association offers plan to fund, improve schools | freep.com | Detroit Free Press
More on budgeting and taxes. This proposal from the MEA is driven by Michigan's $1.8 billion deficit for FY 12.
Michigan Education Association offers plan to fund, improve schools | freep.com | Detroit Free Press
Michigan Education Association offers plan to fund, improve schools | freep.com | Detroit Free Press
Michigan manufacturers call for tax slash | freep.com | Detroit Free Press
Tax cuts impact revenue and revenue drives the budget process. This is all part of the Michigan budget process for this year and is part of restructuring Michigan government. Not the first call for restructuring and not the last you will see in the coming months.
Michigan manufacturers call for tax slash | freep.com | Detroit Free Press
Michigan manufacturers call for tax slash | freep.com | Detroit Free Press
Sunday, January 16, 2011
Here’s an Easy One for Congress - NYTimes.com
A budget cut? Subsidies are a form of "silent taxation" on those not getting the subsidy.
Here’s an Easy One for Congress - NYTimes.com
Here’s an Easy One for Congress - NYTimes.com
Nigeria’s Promise, Africa’s Hope - NYTimes.com
We spend not enough time listening to, talking about and working with Africa and her nations. More Muslims live in Africa than anywhere in the world. Four fifths of Muslims live OUTSIDE of the middle east and most in Africa. It is a continent rich in history, natural resources,people and culture. It is also a continent with huge poverty and huge problems that impact millions of its citizens. Too much suffering by its citizens. So read this column. Read all you can about Africa. Read a book called "The Tenth Parallel". Very important book.
Nigeria’s Promise, Africa’s Hope - NYTimes.com
Nigeria’s Promise, Africa’s Hope - NYTimes.com
Boehner Ends Retreat With Spending Warning - NYTimes.com
Federal debate on budgeting and budget cuts will be even more divisive and partisan now that we have divided government with Republicans controlling the House and the Democrats controlling the Senate and the White House. Divided government. Not so easy to bring resolve and to change how Washington governs and creates.
Boehner Ends Retreat With Spending Warning - NYTimes.com
Boehner Ends Retreat With Spending Warning - NYTimes.com
Governor’s Budget Cuts Will Not Affect Those With the City’s Universal Health Care Plan - NYTimes.com
New York's Governor has budget problems like Michigan and has equally tough decisions. Included is how to handle the nation's biggest and most famous city--New York City. It's budget alone is bigger than many, many state budgets.
Governor’s Budget Cuts Will Not Affect Those With the City’s Universal Health Care Plan - NYTimes.com
Governor’s Budget Cuts Will Not Affect Those With the City’s Universal Health Care Plan - NYTimes.com
Barack Obama's 2012 cash challenge - Jeanne Cummings - POLITICO.com
Michigan's budget problems are huge but so are the federal budget issues. Differences are that the feds can print money and go into debt. Michigan cannot do either--it must balance its budget and it cannot print money. It can raise taxes. All of which leads us to the phrase "politics confronts policy".
Barack Obama's 2012 cash challenge - Jeanne Cummings - POLITICO.com
Barack Obama's 2012 cash challenge - Jeanne Cummings - POLITICO.com
Column: Gov, tear down these schools | detnews.com | The Detroit News
this is a budget issue but also a conflict building between the governing powers and authority of the Executive Branch and the Legislative Branch, all walking towards a conflict/confrontation with local government--school districts. Now through in parents and students and you have a huge "food fight".
Column: Gov, tear down these schools | detnews.com | The Detroit News
Column: Gov, tear down these schools | detnews.com | The Detroit News
Tom Walsh: We'll soon see how Gov. Rick Snyder handles crises | freep.com | Detroit Free Press
a Governor has to handle big and small problems and crises. He has to be concerned but his main job or real job is to make the business of governing cost effective and service efficient AND effective for the state's citizens. It is about governing and operating--being like a business but being like a head of a family and taking care of family members who are having personal crises.
Tom Walsh: We'll soon see how Gov. Rick Snyder handles crises | freep.com | Detroit Free Press
Tom Walsh: We'll soon see how Gov. Rick Snyder handles crises | freep.com | Detroit Free Press
State of the State: Painful budget cuts coming | freep.com | Detroit Free Press
which one or more of these cuts do you think would be he most effective? How would you get the votes to support it? How would privatization or public to public partnerships play into your budget cutting plans?
State of the State: Painful budget cuts coming | freep.com | Detroit Free Press
State of the State: Painful budget cuts coming | freep.com | Detroit Free Press
Saturday, January 15, 2011
Michigan recovery battles with $1.8B deficit | detnews.com | The Detroit News
The deficit remains even with better revenue increases but not enough to get at the deficit without very severe budget cuts. Tough times coming.
Michigan recovery battles with $1.8B deficit | detnews.com | The Detroit News
Michigan recovery battles with $1.8B deficit | detnews.com | The Detroit News
Economists predict uptick in tax revenue; schools may benefit | freep.com | Detroit Free Press
State revenue projects are the start of the budget cycle debate. this forecasts set the base line for revenue and spending for the next fiscal year.
Economists predict uptick in tax revenue; schools may benefit | freep.com | Detroit Free Press
Economists predict uptick in tax revenue; schools may benefit | freep.com | Detroit Free Press
State budget chief gets top salary at $250K | freep.com | Detroit Free Press
Now this will make the debate on the Gov's plan to reduce other public employee salaries. I can hear it now--only the Gov's direct employees can have higher salaries and the others should be cut.
State budget chief gets top salary at $250K | freep.com | Detroit Free Press
State budget chief gets top salary at $250K | freep.com | Detroit Free Press
Public worker costs likely target in Snyder speech | freep.com | Detroit Free Press
will be interesting to watch the Gov try to adjust or reduce public employee compensation and benefits. Some studies suggest that Michigan public employee salaries are not out of range of where they should be and some studies are showing that they are severely out of whack.
Public worker costs likely target in Snyder speech | freep.com | Detroit Free Press
Public worker costs likely target in Snyder speech | freep.com | Detroit Free Press
Friday, January 14, 2011
Debbie Stabenow: Barack Obama will be an asset in 2012 campaign - David Catanese - POLITICO.com
Senator Stabenow is up in 2012. The 2012 election campaign has already started.
Debbie Stabenow: Barack Obama will be an asset in 2012 campaign - David Catanese - POLITICO.com
Debbie Stabenow: Barack Obama will be an asset in 2012 campaign - David Catanese - POLITICO.com
DETNEWS | Weblogs | Washington Bureau Blog
Hmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm. What do we think of this? I think it is a good idea and we should one of these programs at Northern.
DETNEWS | Weblogs | Washington Bureau Blog
DETNEWS | Weblogs | Washington Bureau Blog
Snyder fails to release salaries | detnews.com | The Detroit News
Budget reform includes openness in government data and funding. Salaries of top officials need to be public at ALL times.
Snyder fails to release salaries | detnews.com | The Detroit News
Snyder fails to release salaries | detnews.com | The Detroit News
GOP pushes for help for businesses | freep.com | Detroit Free Press
It will be interesting to see if the Republicans can get a majority vote on these proposed cuts and tax reforms. Many constitutes back home are proponents of various tax incentives and tax benefits--not to mention various state programs.
GOP pushes for help for businesses | freep.com | Detroit Free Press
GOP pushes for help for businesses | freep.com | Detroit Free Press
GOP warns: Painful cuts coming to fix state deficit | freep.com | Detroit Free Press
Budget debate will be intense. Not to mention nasty.
GOP warns: Painful cuts coming to fix state deficit | freep.com | Detroit Free Press
GOP warns: Painful cuts coming to fix state deficit | freep.com | Detroit Free Press
Thursday, January 13, 2011
Michigan must get 'much more aggressive in everything that we're doing,' says new economic development chief | MLive.com
creating jobs as part of the reinventing Michigan puzzle. Also part of the budget cutting and rebuilding process.
Michigan must get 'much more aggressive in everything that we're doing,' says new economic development chief | MLive.com
Michigan must get 'much more aggressive in everything that we're doing,' says new economic development chief | MLive.com
New House Speaker Jase Bolger says 'right-to-work' status is 'on the table' | MLive.com
Big issue and big confrontation coming with the debate over right to work laws.
New House Speaker Jase Bolger says 'right-to-work' status is 'on the table' | MLive.com
New House Speaker Jase Bolger says 'right-to-work' status is 'on the table' | MLive.com
Young GOP hopeful stands by her ideals | detnews.com | The Detroit News
Will the Arizona shootings/assassinations change how we work together in Michigan while doing our state public policy? Good recap of political news here.
Young GOP hopeful stands by her ideals | detnews.com | The Detroit News
Young GOP hopeful stands by her ideals | detnews.com | The Detroit News
Republicans take over Lansing | detnews.com | The Detroit News
Michigan has not had divided government for decades. The Republicans have a huge burden now to govern and deliver the legislative votes to support their Governor. Seems like the public is ready for Governor Snyder's positive mode of doing business. After the "cuts" are proposed we will begin the real challenges of governing. Special interests and the media will launch their attacks on the government restructuring and cuts.
Republicans take over Lansing | detnews.com | The Detroit News
Republicans take over Lansing | detnews.com | The Detroit News
Opinion: Hold bad political actors accountable - Joe Scarborough - POLITICO.com
Language matters. No civility without understanding our culture and how we use language. Our culture drives and defines our politics.
Opinion: Hold bad political actors accountable - Joe Scarborough - POLITICO.com
Opinion: Hold bad political actors accountable - Joe Scarborough - POLITICO.com
Wednesday, January 12, 2011
Members of Michigan's House, Senate prepare for oath | detnews.com | The Detroit News
Let the games begin. State budget moves to forefront.
Members of Michigan's House, Senate prepare for oath | detnews.com | The Detroit News
Members of Michigan's House, Senate prepare for oath | detnews.com | The Detroit News
Tuesday, January 11, 2011
Nathan Deal: Jailing Drug Addicts Is 'Draining To Our State'
Most big states are having this same problem: prison operations costs and sentencing policies that jam up the prisons--versus citizen demands that the legislature and the courts be tough on crime.
Nathan Deal: Jailing Drug Addicts Is 'Draining To Our State'
Nathan Deal: Jailing Drug Addicts Is 'Draining To Our State'
Pat Buchanan to politicians: Tone down rhetoric - Jennifer Epstein - POLITICO.com
More on "language matters" and so does our behavior.
Pat Buchanan to politicians: Tone down rhetoric - Jennifer Epstein - POLITICO.com
Pat Buchanan to politicians: Tone down rhetoric - Jennifer Epstein - POLITICO.com
Opinion: Hold bad political actors accountable - Joe Scarborough - POLITICO.com
Language matters and what we all individually say and how we say it has ramifications. The media and politicians need to remember this but so do we as citizens.
Opinion: Hold bad political actors accountable - Joe Scarborough - POLITICO.com
Opinion: Hold bad political actors accountable - Joe Scarborough - POLITICO.com
Monday, January 10, 2011
Owing the Government, Money for Nothing
Budgeting and budgeting: revenue. Governments need to be better at collecting what is owed to them by taxpayers, vendors, etc...
Owing the Government, Money for Nothing
Owing the Government, Money for Nothing
West Des Moines Cleans up on Trash Collection
Innovation: this is good example of budgeting innovation.
West Des Moines Cleans up on Trash Collection
West Des Moines Cleans up on Trash Collection
Michigan's governor faces daunting task to tame state budget | lansingstatejournal.com | Lansing State Journal
The budget problems confronting the Governor are huge but not unprecedented. However if he wants to make major state government reforms using budget cuts is one way to make major, major changes in the structure of government and in tax policy.
Michigan's governor faces daunting task to tame state budget | lansingstatejournal.com | Lansing State Journal
Michigan's governor faces daunting task to tame state budget | lansingstatejournal.com | Lansing State Journal
Sunday, January 9, 2011
Arizona Violence from European Point of View
EUROPEANS ARE EATING IT UP -- They’ve always been fascinated with American gun violence. Throw in the West, plus a good-looking congresswoman, and the story got huge, immediate play in the Brit papers:
--The Sunday Telegraph, “US Democrat is shot in head as 'loner' kills six”: “The attack immediately focused attention on the shrill political climate in the US. Miss Giffords had narrowly beaten off a tough challenge in November’s congressional elections by a Tea Party-backed Republican candidate, she had previously received death threats and her offices had been shot at. … Another chilling twist was the presence of John Roll, a district judge, among the dead. … The Congresswoman, who is Jewish, is a gun-owner and supporter of the right to bear arms. … It is believed to be the first time that a woman politician has been the object of an assassination attempt in America, a country where elected leaders have often been the subject of attacks.”
--The (London) Sunday Times, top of page, with half-page-wide photo of Giffords: “Congresswoman shot as gunman goes on rampage.”
--The tabloid Mail on Sunday: “18 SHOT IN SAFEWAY MASSACRE.”
--The Sunday Telegraph, “US Democrat is shot in head as 'loner' kills six”: “The attack immediately focused attention on the shrill political climate in the US. Miss Giffords had narrowly beaten off a tough challenge in November’s congressional elections by a Tea Party-backed Republican candidate, she had previously received death threats and her offices had been shot at. … Another chilling twist was the presence of John Roll, a district judge, among the dead. … The Congresswoman, who is Jewish, is a gun-owner and supporter of the right to bear arms. … It is believed to be the first time that a woman politician has been the object of an assassination attempt in America, a country where elected leaders have often been the subject of attacks.”
--The (London) Sunday Times, top of page, with half-page-wide photo of Giffords: “Congresswoman shot as gunman goes on rampage.”
--The tabloid Mail on Sunday: “18 SHOT IN SAFEWAY MASSACRE.”
Study Finds Family Connections Give Big Advantage in College Admissions - NYTimes.com
This is what is called rich people's affirmative action.
Study Finds Family Connections Give Big Advantage in College Admissions - NYTimes.com
Study Finds Family Connections Give Big Advantage in College Admissions - NYTimes.com
Obama names Sperling to head National Economic Council
A key actor in the budget battles between the President and the Congress. His leadership will be key in getting resolution to issues like the debt limit, etc..
Obama names Sperling to head National Economic Council
Obama names Sperling to head National Economic Council
Saturday, January 8, 2011
President and Foreign Affairs
SUDAN INDEPENDENCE REFERENDUM TOMORROW, in which southern Sudanese are expected to vote to separate from the north and form a new nation:
--THE STAKES FOR WASHINGTON - "Sudan vote tests Obama's Africa diplomacy: U.S. sees tough road ahead after Sudan vote -- Obama seeks to avoid 'Rwanda moment,'" by Reuters' Andrew Quinn: "South Sudan's independence referendum Sunday marks the start of a new test for U.S. diplomacy in the region, which analysts say could yet present President Barack Obama with his 'Rwanda moment' if violence explodes in its wake. U.S. officials are cautiously optimistic about the vote, which is expected to see southern Sudan opt to split off as an independent country in the last step of a 2005 peace deal that ended one of Africa's bloodiest civil wars. ... In Sudan, a credible referendum would be welcome news in Washington ... But officials are less confident about the next phase, a tricky six-month transition as the two countries separate ... Crucial issues including borders, citizenship, and division of Sudan's oil revenues are yet to be decided, any of which could trigger bloodshed that some warn might potentially rival the 1994 genocide in Rwanda if it expands into full-blown war."
--WHITE HOUSE DIPLOMATIC EFFORTS -- Assistant Press Secretary Tommy Vietor e-mailed reporters yesterday: On Sunday, "Sudan will hold its referendum on self determination. This has the potential to be a historic event, not just for the people of Sudan, but for the region. ... Because the stakes are so high, the President made peace and stability in Sudan a priority from the first days of his administration. And as the referendum drew closer, [he] drastically increased diplomatic activity to ensure it was on time, peaceful, and that the results were respected. ... The President [held a] half dozen meetings at the White House with Special Envoy [to Sudan Scott] Gration to discuss Sudan ... The Vice President ... Raised Sudan during a [September] meeting with Egyptian President Mubarak ... Discussed Sudan during a [December] call with Sudanese Second Vice President Kiir ...
"[Former National Security Adviser James] Jones Held weekly meetings from August-October with his UK, French, German counterparts where Sudan was discussed ... [National Security Adviser Tom] Donilon Regularly discusses Sudan with his counterparts in the UK, France, and Germany ... [Deputy National Security Adviser Denis] McDonough Met [in November] with Sudanese Second Vice President Taha ... Met [in December] with Sudanese First Vice President Kiir ... Met [in December] with Sudanese Second VP Taha ... [S]ince mid-September, ... McDonough has chaired more than two dozen White House-led interagency meetings on Sudan. Some of these meetings lasted as long as 3 hours. ... [T]hese are only the efforts by the President, Vice President and [the National Security Staff]. Not listed are the countless calls and meetings on Sudan by Secretary Clinton, [U.N.] Ambassador Rice, Assistant Secretary [of State for the Bureau of African Affairs] Johnnie Carson, or the 24 trips to the region by Special Envoy Gration."
--THE STAKES FOR WASHINGTON - "Sudan vote tests Obama's Africa diplomacy: U.S. sees tough road ahead after Sudan vote -- Obama seeks to avoid 'Rwanda moment,'" by Reuters' Andrew Quinn: "South Sudan's independence referendum Sunday marks the start of a new test for U.S. diplomacy in the region, which analysts say could yet present President Barack Obama with his 'Rwanda moment' if violence explodes in its wake. U.S. officials are cautiously optimistic about the vote, which is expected to see southern Sudan opt to split off as an independent country in the last step of a 2005 peace deal that ended one of Africa's bloodiest civil wars. ... In Sudan, a credible referendum would be welcome news in Washington ... But officials are less confident about the next phase, a tricky six-month transition as the two countries separate ... Crucial issues including borders, citizenship, and division of Sudan's oil revenues are yet to be decided, any of which could trigger bloodshed that some warn might potentially rival the 1994 genocide in Rwanda if it expands into full-blown war."
--WHITE HOUSE DIPLOMATIC EFFORTS -- Assistant Press Secretary Tommy Vietor e-mailed reporters yesterday: On Sunday, "Sudan will hold its referendum on self determination. This has the potential to be a historic event, not just for the people of Sudan, but for the region. ... Because the stakes are so high, the President made peace and stability in Sudan a priority from the first days of his administration. And as the referendum drew closer, [he] drastically increased diplomatic activity to ensure it was on time, peaceful, and that the results were respected. ... The President [held a] half dozen meetings at the White House with Special Envoy [to Sudan Scott] Gration to discuss Sudan ... The Vice President ... Raised Sudan during a [September] meeting with Egyptian President Mubarak ... Discussed Sudan during a [December] call with Sudanese Second Vice President Kiir ...
"[Former National Security Adviser James] Jones Held weekly meetings from August-October with his UK, French, German counterparts where Sudan was discussed ... [National Security Adviser Tom] Donilon Regularly discusses Sudan with his counterparts in the UK, France, and Germany ... [Deputy National Security Adviser Denis] McDonough Met [in November] with Sudanese Second Vice President Taha ... Met [in December] with Sudanese First Vice President Kiir ... Met [in December] with Sudanese Second VP Taha ... [S]ince mid-September, ... McDonough has chaired more than two dozen White House-led interagency meetings on Sudan. Some of these meetings lasted as long as 3 hours. ... [T]hese are only the efforts by the President, Vice President and [the National Security Staff]. Not listed are the countless calls and meetings on Sudan by Secretary Clinton, [U.N.] Ambassador Rice, Assistant Secretary [of State for the Bureau of African Affairs] Johnnie Carson, or the 24 trips to the region by Special Envoy Gration."
Immigration
--WashPost Ombudsman Andrew Alexander, "The debate over immigration language": "Many [newsrooms] adhere to the ... guidance of the Associated Press, which prefers 'illegal immigrant.' The Post's internal stylebook says 'undocumented immigrant' also may be used. Discussion was renewed recently when Leo E. Laurence, a San Diego journalist and member of the diversity committee of the Society of Professional Journalists, wrote a column for the organization's magazine urging 'undocumented' rather than 'illegal.' 'Simply put, only a judge, not a journalist, can say that someone is an "illegal,"' he wrote. Laurence ... soon ended up in a spirited on-air disagreement with Fox News Channel's Bill O'Reilly, who suggested that refusing to use the term 'illegal' is 'political correctness gone mad.' ... A review of Post terminology in stories during the second half of 2010 shows that 'undocumented immigrant' was used about six times more frequently than 'illegal immigrant.'" http://wapo.st/hkxr5s
Language is important and is a driver in how our culture treats people.
Language is important and is a driver in how our culture treats people.
Friday, January 7, 2011
340 state workers face privatization - JSOnline
How much of this will we see in Gov. Snyder's new budget proposals? Will we see privatization of state and local government services and units or will we see more public to public partnerships instead of privatization.? Will state and local government have any choice?
340 state workers face privatization - JSOnline
340 state workers face privatization - JSOnline
Hopper's political legacy - NATASHA LENNARD | POLITICO CLICK
Culture drives politics not the other way. Cultural drivers and influencers have huge impact on the politics of our day--and days of past.
Hopper's political legacy - NATASHA LENNARD | POLITICO CLICK
Hopper's political legacy - NATASHA LENNARD | POLITICO CLICK
Budget panel's new power couple - Scott Wong and Manu Raju - POLITICO.com
These two men will have a huge impact on the tone of the budget and political debate between the President and the Congressional Republicans--and to a lesser degree the Democrats.
Budget panel's new power couple - Scott Wong and Manu Raju - POLITICO.com
Budget panel's new power couple - Scott Wong and Manu Raju - POLITICO.com
Dems, GOP jockey over debt ceiling - Jonathan Allen and Jake Sherman - POLITICO.com
First step in budget battle with President and House Republicans. H
Dems, GOP jockey over debt ceiling - Jonathan Allen and Jake Sherman - POLITICO.com
Dems, GOP jockey over debt ceiling - Jonathan Allen and Jake Sherman - POLITICO.com
William Daley takes Barack Obama back to the future - Glenn Thrush and Carol E. Lee - POLITICO.com
Will this new moderate leadership of COS Bill Daley make a difference in how the Administration tries to govern and how it relates to Republican Congressional leadership? Will it make a difference in policy proposals from the Administration?
William Daley takes Barack Obama back to the future - Glenn Thrush and Carol E. Lee - POLITICO.com
William Daley takes Barack Obama back to the future - Glenn Thrush and Carol E. Lee - POLITICO.com
Gay unions, yes — marriage, no | detnews.com | The Detroit News
Moving trends among voters. Younger people versus older people on social issues.
Gay unions, yes — marriage, no | detnews.com | The Detroit News
Gay unions, yes — marriage, no | detnews.com | The Detroit News
Northern Michigan aging faster than rest of state | detnews.com | The Detroit News
This demographic data describes why some areas of the state will have higher costs in public services in the local government budgets AND in the state budget. Older citizens demand more services and cost more to give them services. Should we allow budgets to reflect regional demands and needed services because of rural nature of the local government or because of who lives in these rural areas? Are should we say services are provided in these areas and not in others? If want this service you travel to it or move? Hospitals? Airports? Senior medical services? More?
Northern Michigan aging faster than rest of state | detnews.com | The Detroit News
Northern Michigan aging faster than rest of state | detnews.com | The Detroit News
Legislature's leaders say they'll cooperate, but it may not be so easy | freep.com | Detroit Free Press
This is why it will be very, very difficult for the new Governor to get his budget cuts and reforms done--even when your party controls ALL of the government. The legislature will be difficult to say the least to get together on the same page as the Governor.
Legislature's leaders say they'll cooperate, but it may not be so easy | freep.com | Detroit Free Press
Legislature's leaders say they'll cooperate, but it may not be so easy | freep.com | Detroit Free Press
Snyder: Supreme Court pick will be 'rule of law justice' | freep.com | Detroit Free Press
A big, big decision for new Governor Snyder. This pick will say alot about his political philosophy and his view of how justice should be dispensed.
Snyder: Supreme Court pick will be 'rule of law justice' | freep.com | Detroit Free Press
Snyder: Supreme Court pick will be 'rule of law justice' | freep.com | Detroit Free Press
Honest Debate Needed on Public Employee Pay | DomeMagazine.com
We do need to get good data out there that tells us what are the real facts about public employee compensation (including public employer contributions to public employee pension plans and health plans)and how they compare to private sector salaries. As this article says there will have to be cuts in public employee benefits and salaries because the state's revenue is not enough to cover the state budget/expenses. The public does deserve good facts and good data. As the saying goes, you are entitled to your own opinion but you are not entitled to your own facts.
Honest Debate Needed on Public Employee Pay | DomeMagazine.com
Honest Debate Needed on Public Employee Pay | DomeMagazine.com
Thursday, January 6, 2011
95,000 Poor Minnesotans to Get Medicaid
Health care in the states. Cost? this will be part of the congressional budget debate. What should the states do on health care budgeting and services versus the federal government.
95,000 Poor Minnesotans to Get Medicaid
95,000 Poor Minnesotans to Get Medicaid
Wednesday, January 5, 2011
David Kolb: 'Pickett's Charge' may hurt GOP worse than 'Waterloo' | MLive.com
More on the Tea Party and impact on the government.
David Kolb: 'Pickett's Charge' may hurt GOP worse than 'Waterloo' | MLive.com
David Kolb: 'Pickett's Charge' may hurt GOP worse than 'Waterloo' | MLive.com
Editorial: How to save money for local governments | MLive.com
Yup. We will lots of these kinds of editorials as the Governor issues his budget and likely big cuts in aid to local governments.
Editorial: How to save money for local governments | MLive.com
Editorial: How to save money for local governments | MLive.com
Snyder's pick to head agency has major Supreme Court implications | freep.com | Detroit Free Press
This is an important and hot issue because Snyder needs strong, conservative court to back him up on reapportionment, budget cuts and pension/health care reforms that could get up to the Court real fast and delay Snyder reforms. So republicans and Snyder need a full bench.
Snyder's pick to head agency has major Supreme Court implications | freep.com | Detroit Free Press
Snyder's pick to head agency has major Supreme Court implications | freep.com | Detroit Free Press
Sunday, January 2, 2011
House Republicans to bring up repeal of health-care law 'early' in new Congress
Congressman Upton is a moderate Republican who is chairman of one of Congress's most powerful committees. He has to deal with the far right of the Republican Party and the far left of the Democratic Party on his committee. It will very interesting to watch him work this mine field. The other interesting question is will the US Supreme Court expedite this issue and rule on lower federal court rulings on the Obama health care proposals. With the Court deal with constitutional issues versus the practical application issues of this law--in other words will they only deal with the issue of whether a law may force citizens to purchase health care insurance? If yes then can states force one to purchase automobile liability insurance? Life insurance? This will be a fascinating debate inside the Court and outside the Supreme Court.
Three branches of government clashing over a very big, big issue: Judiciary, Executive and Legislative. Classic confrontation and maybe a constitutional crisis between the powers of the three branches of Government.
House Republicans to bring up repeal of health-care law 'early' in new Congress
Three branches of government clashing over a very big, big issue: Judiciary, Executive and Legislative. Classic confrontation and maybe a constitutional crisis between the powers of the three branches of Government.
House Republicans to bring up repeal of health-care law 'early' in new Congress
Leadership Definition and Examples
Lou Gerstner, former CEO of IBM: to create change, understand why people behave the way they do. Understand the culture of the institution . What do people value, what makes them tick? What makes them come to work every day and do what they do.
Leadership Definition --Military
Admiral Mike Mullen, Chairman Joint Chief of Staff:
Leaders are clear eyed, frank and not shy about what they say.
Leaders are clear eyed, frank and not shy about what they say.
Leadership Definition in Higher Education
President Levin of Yale on leadership in higher education and in government.
Faculty have chosen their profession because they do not want to be managed, so how do you manage them? There is a common sense of purpose and marching in same direction--that is leadership. Job of a leader is to paint a common vision, a clear sense of direction and clear themes. Get everyone to march in the same direction. If you do not do this everything will be fractured.
Try to persuade. Not everyone will join in and support but you have to try and then move on.
Clear sense of what you need to get buy in to vision.
Realize what is important to employees and be very cautious when changing it.
Faculty have chosen their profession because they do not want to be managed, so how do you manage them? There is a common sense of purpose and marching in same direction--that is leadership. Job of a leader is to paint a common vision, a clear sense of direction and clear themes. Get everyone to march in the same direction. If you do not do this everything will be fractured.
Try to persuade. Not everyone will join in and support but you have to try and then move on.
Clear sense of what you need to get buy in to vision.
Realize what is important to employees and be very cautious when changing it.
Leadership And Governor's Role in Leadership
Former Governor Whitman of NJ: Leadership is getting people to do what you want them to do because they want to do it.
More from Whitman: Every policy you do as a governor will hurt somebody. It is not like running a business where your only obligation is to do what is best for your business or for your shareholders. A Governor must recognize that she has to do what is best for the largest number of people not just for friends, special interest or even for deserving citizens. A Governor has to make decisions as a state leader and those decisions, all of them, will hurt somebody or something. that is the role of public policy leader of a Governor.
More from Whitman: Every policy you do as a governor will hurt somebody. It is not like running a business where your only obligation is to do what is best for your business or for your shareholders. A Governor must recognize that she has to do what is best for the largest number of people not just for friends, special interest or even for deserving citizens. A Governor has to make decisions as a state leader and those decisions, all of them, will hurt somebody or something. that is the role of public policy leader of a Governor.
Change
One of the tasks of the new Governor is get Michiganders to NOT fear change. To get all of us want to be change agents at the same time as we understand that change needs to treat everyone equally--give everyone the same opportunity to succeed and equal opportunity to be a change agent. Teach us how to not fear change.
Feds to Return Power to States--Influence of Tea Party in New Congress--the 112th
HUFFPOST banner, "TEA PARTY FURY: Activists Already Angry With GOP Leaders As New Congress Begins" - links to N.Y. Times A13 (bottom of "National" dress page), "As New Congress Begins, Actions of G.O.P. Leaders Anger Tea Party Activists," by Kate Zernike: "Just a month ago, Tea Party leaders were celebrating their movement's victories in the midterm elections. But as Congress wrapped up an unusually productive lame-duck session last month, those same Tea Party leaders were lamenting that Washington behaved as if it barely noticed that American voters had repudiated the political establishment. ... 'Do I think that they've recognized what happened on Election Day? I would say decisively no,' said Mark Meckler, a co-founder of Tea Party Patriots. ... 'The Republicans, frankly, have been a disaster' ... Tea Party leaders scoffed at the Republicans' greatest victory from the lame-duck session - the extension of the Bush tax cuts as part of a compromise with the White House. Instead, Tea Party leaders complained that Republicans had abandoned a push for a full repeal of the estate tax. ... Incoming Tea Party lawmakers said they would push for drastic cuts to federal agencies whose functions they believe would be better handled at the state level, like the Department of Education." http://nyti.ms/eQlsH5
What Should We Cut
What are the top ten things the Governor should eliminate from the budget? Big and Small?
First thing I would cut is symbolic--I would sell the Governor's State Mansion on Mackinaw Island. Has its own staff of cooks and maintenance people. In today's world we do not need to provide a Governor with a vacation home worth millions and staff it with hundreds of thousands of staff.
Next I would sell the Governor's Mansion in Lansing. It too has its own paid state staff of cooks and maintenance people. Give every Governor a housing allowance.
Both a bad symbols of an old state budget. elimination of both won't solve the budget crisis--not even close. BUT both are good symbols of an old world and we need to tell the people that it is time to change, time for even the Governor needs to "feel the fiscal pain"
First thing I would cut is symbolic--I would sell the Governor's State Mansion on Mackinaw Island. Has its own staff of cooks and maintenance people. In today's world we do not need to provide a Governor with a vacation home worth millions and staff it with hundreds of thousands of staff.
Next I would sell the Governor's Mansion in Lansing. It too has its own paid state staff of cooks and maintenance people. Give every Governor a housing allowance.
Both a bad symbols of an old state budget. elimination of both won't solve the budget crisis--not even close. BUT both are good symbols of an old world and we need to tell the people that it is time to change, time for even the Governor needs to "feel the fiscal pain"
Time to Reform the Budget Process - TheFiscalTimes.com
With every new Congress we get this call: reform the budget process. We all know it is not working, it never seems to get done. New House leadership might make us begin to take a harder look but the issues are the same--cut somebody else's project not mine, not my state, not my district. Bartlett's points in the below article are a good review of the arguments. Worth reading.
Time to Reform the Budget Process - TheFiscalTimes.com
Time to Reform the Budget Process - TheFiscalTimes.com
Gov. Christie Defends 'Disney World' Trip During Blizzard
This story is about "all politics is local". This governor has been out there talking about government needs to be run like a "business" and needs to be ALL about serving citizens with good state and local services that are efficient and effective. Well the recent snow storm put him in a real jam when he did not return to his state from Disneyland. Citizens demand to know why he would not come back to NJ and do what he was saying he was doing--being the CEO of NJ. Well the question is would a business CEO really stay on vacation while her/his business faced a crisis or a collapse of services to their customers? Is that not what happened in NJ? Now the governor and the legislature are battling over local services guaranteed by the state and did the Governor and his team deliver. A classic Executive and Legislative branch conflict. Two lessons: be careful about what you say because in todays world of internet and 24 hour cable everything you say will be repeated over and over again. Second, all politics is local.
Gov. Christie Defends 'Disney World' Trip During Blizzard
Gov. Christie Defends 'Disney World' Trip During Blizzard
Peter Luke: Gov. Rick Snyder has the right goals; can he make the Legislature accomplish them? | MLive.com
"Fixing Michigan will not be easy". Gov. Snyder's choices are going to be very difficult. It is easy for all of us to say we will work with the new Governor to find new solutions. But when he and the legislature have to cut some of the things each of us have supported over the years or we spend our time supporting now we will react with a normal human reaction: opposition and fear. Everyone has a pet project and/or a pet issue-including every member of the state legislature--both parties. The Lt Gov was not even sworn in a few weeks ago and he was trying to get the legislature to approve funding of a program important to him and his family--and thousands of others. He was trying to use his new upcoming title/office to get something done he could not get done just as a regular legislator. That is normal and ethical behavior by him. It did not work but we should all remember that this is what will happen everyday, every minute as the new legislature and Administration tries to cure our failing economy, state system and society in Michigan. Article below is a good review.
Peter Luke: Gov. Rick Snyder has the right goals; can he make the Legislature accomplish them? | MLive.com
Peter Luke: Gov. Rick Snyder has the right goals; can he make the Legislature accomplish them? | MLive.com
Saturday, January 1, 2011
Rick Haglund: Look at the positives of Michigan's population decline | MLive.com
Looking for some positives in Michigan's population decline? Well this article helps you find some or at least think about some.
Rick Haglund: Look at the positives of Michigan's population decline | MLive.com
Rick Haglund: Look at the positives of Michigan's population decline | MLive.com
Reapportionment Impact on the Midwest
The Midwest and specifically Michigan are facing huge implications from the loss of many congressional seats and resulting power that will have a major impact on state and local government budgets and operations.
The region's economy has been struggling for decades - the Great Recession just worsened problems.
Midwestern manufacturing employment has been declining since at least 1980. Michigan hasn't had a year of net job growth since the Clinton administration.
No state between Minnesota and Pennsylvania has gained congressional seats since the 1960 Census.
Will the Midwest matter in Congress and in the 2012 Presidential elections with such huge gains in populations in the south, southwest and west?
The region's economy has been struggling for decades - the Great Recession just worsened problems.
Midwestern manufacturing employment has been declining since at least 1980. Michigan hasn't had a year of net job growth since the Clinton administration.
No state between Minnesota and Pennsylvania has gained congressional seats since the 1960 Census.
Will the Midwest matter in Congress and in the 2012 Presidential elections with such huge gains in populations in the south, southwest and west?
Snyder Inaugural Address today
What will he proposed that is dramatic or will it be a motivational address getting Michiganders to come together to make tough choices?
what were the most intriguing proposals? The most dramatic? The most troubling?
what were the most intriguing proposals? The most dramatic? The most troubling?
Happy New Year
Today is 1.1.11
This is going to be a very traumatic year in the political and public policy arena.
We are going to see so much proposed change that it may bring about a lot of discord and maybe civil service.
Below is an interesting observation by a DC based political consultant and observer (from today's Washington Post)
Topic A: What will be 2011's biggest political surprise?
Sunday, January 2, 2011
The Post asked political experts to predict the biggest political surprise of 2011. Below are responses from Ed Rogers, Jennifer Palmieri, Douglas E. Schoen, Robert Shrum, Dan Schnur, Dana Perino and Catherine A. "Kiki" McLean.
ED ROGERS
Chairman of BGR Group; White House staffer to Ronald Reagan and George H.W. Bush
The biggest political surprise in 2011 may come in the form of the shock produced by public-sector labor strikes and demonstrations that could stray into civil disorder as state and local governments cut budgets. Government workers could be laid off by the thousands, and millions of the beneficiaries of government-supplied salaries, pensions and benefits could see reductions in pay and program allowances they have been told to expect.
The same kind of protests that have rocked Paris, London and Rome could erupt in California, New York and Illinois.
We are heading into uncharted political territory as state and local governments face the reality that promises can't be kept. Will the unionized government institutions go down without a fight? Will the dependent class of Americans that government has created just shrug and accept the spending-cut medicine?
The schism between the governed and those governing could become greater than ever as the government tries to protect itself for its own sake and not for the public good. The millions of Americans who have lost jobs or face increasing economic uncertainty resent the relative posterity and security that government now provides for itself. President Obama will say he is for more "stimulus," but even the money-making printing presses in Washington are at their limits.
Besides, with a Republican majority in the House and Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell having veto power in the Senate, there will not be a bailout from Washington.
Fasten your seat belts; there is trouble ahead.
This is going to be a very traumatic year in the political and public policy arena.
We are going to see so much proposed change that it may bring about a lot of discord and maybe civil service.
Below is an interesting observation by a DC based political consultant and observer (from today's Washington Post)
Topic A: What will be 2011's biggest political surprise?
Sunday, January 2, 2011
The Post asked political experts to predict the biggest political surprise of 2011. Below are responses from Ed Rogers, Jennifer Palmieri, Douglas E. Schoen, Robert Shrum, Dan Schnur, Dana Perino and Catherine A. "Kiki" McLean.
ED ROGERS
Chairman of BGR Group; White House staffer to Ronald Reagan and George H.W. Bush
The biggest political surprise in 2011 may come in the form of the shock produced by public-sector labor strikes and demonstrations that could stray into civil disorder as state and local governments cut budgets. Government workers could be laid off by the thousands, and millions of the beneficiaries of government-supplied salaries, pensions and benefits could see reductions in pay and program allowances they have been told to expect.
The same kind of protests that have rocked Paris, London and Rome could erupt in California, New York and Illinois.
We are heading into uncharted political territory as state and local governments face the reality that promises can't be kept. Will the unionized government institutions go down without a fight? Will the dependent class of Americans that government has created just shrug and accept the spending-cut medicine?
The schism between the governed and those governing could become greater than ever as the government tries to protect itself for its own sake and not for the public good. The millions of Americans who have lost jobs or face increasing economic uncertainty resent the relative posterity and security that government now provides for itself. President Obama will say he is for more "stimulus," but even the money-making printing presses in Washington are at their limits.
Besides, with a Republican majority in the House and Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell having veto power in the Senate, there will not be a bailout from Washington.
Fasten your seat belts; there is trouble ahead.
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