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US Liberal Politics: Most Popular Articles

These articles are the most popular over the last month.
Iraq Stats June 15, 2008
Quick-reading key statistics about the Iraq War, taken primarily from data analyzed by various think tanks, including The Brookings Institution's Iraq Index, and from mainstream media sources. Data is presented as of June 15, 2008, except as indicated.
US Senator Barack Obama
Profile and personal data on U.S. Senator Barack Obama, Democrat from Illinois.
Death Penalty Pros & Cons
Capital punishment (the death peanlty) is the pre-meditated taking of a human life by a government in response to a crime committed by that legally convicted person. The US is sharply divided on the morality of the death penalty. This article sums the arguments for and against the death penalty, and statistics worldwide and in the US. It also discusses felon Stanley Tookie Williams, executed in Dec 2005, who was nominated for both the Nobel Peace and Literature Prizes.
Stem Cell Research Basics
Embryonic stem cell research is not illegal in the US. President Bush banned the use of federal funds to advance such research, but not private and state funding. Most scientists believe that embryonic stem cells hold the key to curing hundreds of diseases. On the other side, staunch pro-lifers believe that it's immoral to destroy a days-old embryo to save existing life.
Pros/Cons No Child Left Behind
The No Child Left Behind Act of 2002 was initially legislated for 5 years, and was then expected to be easily renewed in 2007.But Senate Democrats were divided were divided on reauthorization, while most Senate Republicans heartily despise NCLB.
Illegal Immigration Profits
Illegal immigration into the US is highly profitable for both employers and the US government. In Fall 2005, the US and Mexican governments are silently, and actively, enticing illegal immigrants to enter and work illegally in this country. Poverty-stricken immigrants respond, and then are blamed by US citizenry for being in the US. The purpose of this article is to explain why the federal government can't afford and doesn't plan to to end illegal immigration.
CNN's Anderson Cooper
Anderson Cooper is an impassioned journalist and CNN's lead news anchor. With his taste for covering disasters and wars, Cooper embodies a new style of advocacy journalism. Cooper is the son of heiress Gloria Vanderbilt and her 4th husband, writer Wyatt Cooper.
Profile of Michelle Obama
Candid profile of Michelle Obama in her campaign role as spouse to Barack Obama, 2008 presidential candidate.
US Army General Wesley Clark
General Wesley Clark is a retired four-star US Army general who led the NATO's Kosovo operation from 1997 to 2000 as Supreme Allied Commander. Clark is rumored to be on Barack Obama's VP shortlist.
Immigration Reform Act 2007
Summarizes major provisions, and the pros and cons of the Comprehensive Immigration Reform Act, which Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid introduced on May 9, 2007. The bill was drafted in cooperation with the White House, and co-authored by a bipartisan group of 12 senators.
Voting Rights & Ohio 2004
The 2000 and 2004 US presidential elections were tainted with thousands of verified violations of citizens' sacred rights to vote. Millions were denied the ability to freely and fairly cast votes for their choices. As an example of US democracy willfully derailed, this article summarizes Congressional findings of the 2004 Ohio election for three main areas of voting rights: access to voting, accurate recording of votes, and accurate counting of votes.
Obama on Faith & Politics
Barack Obama's controversial '06 speech on religion and politics that set off a firestorm among both liberals and conservatives. The following is an easier-reading, edited version of his remarks.
Pros/Cons Gun Control Laws
About 80 million Americans, representing half of U.S. homes, own more than 223 million guns. And yet, 60% of Democrats and 30% of Republicans favor stronger gun ownership laws. This article presents an overview of the pros/cons and the politics of U.S. gun ownership and use laws.
Free Trade Pros/Cons
Pros and cons of U.S. free trade agreements, including a brief explanation and history of U.S. free trade pacts, and of presidential fast-track trade authority.
2002 - Obama on Iraq War
Senator Barack Obama (D-Il) delivered these passionate remarks opposing the Iraq War, in October 2002 at the Federal Plaza in Chicago...
Who Voted NO in 2002 on War
It's time we honor Congress members who voted in 2002 to stop the Bush Administration's hasty rush into the unprovoked attack and occupation of Iraq. The much-debated vote on Joint Resolution 114 was taken on October 11, 2002. It passed the Senate by a vote of 77 to 23, and the House by 296 to 133. In the end, 156 members of Congress from 36 states had the information and wisdom to make the correct decision for our nation. These discerning leaders should be reelected in 2006 and beyond.
Obama's Famed '04 Speech
On the evening of July 27, 2004, Barack Obama, then candidate for US Senator from Illinois, delivered an electrifying speech to the 2004 Democratic Convention. As the result of the now-legendary speech (presented below), Obama rose to national prominence,and his speech is regarded as one of the great political statements.
CNN's Christiane Amanpour
Christiane Amanpour is CNN's Chief International Correspondent and one of the most distinguished and honored TV correspondents in the US. She's also said to be the highest-paid correspondent in the world, and is globally respected. She is commonly given entree to situations and events where other journalists are neither welcomed nor allowed. She's considered an authority on Islam.
Kyoto Protocol Explained
The Kyoto Protocol became effective on Feb 16, 2005 when it was signed by 141 industrialized countries, including all of Europe. This pact is the first world agreement to fight global warming. Vice President Al Gore was an architect of it and President Clinton signed it in 1997. Despite campaign promises, George Bush withdrew US support for it in 2001, citing that compliance was too costly for US businesses.
Partial Birth Abortion Debate
Partial-birth abortion is a non-medical term used to describe an abortion procedure which is performed after the first trimester of pregnancy, with the goal of delivering a fetus that is not alive. It's also one of the most hotly contested right-to-life political issues in American life today. Most legal battles over banning this procedure relate to the inclusion of exemptions for certain circumstances, most notably to save the life or health of the woman.
Funding Faith-Based Services
Discusses the White House Office of Faith-Based and Community Initiatives and the $1 billion in federal funds given to faith-based gorups in 2003. The White House initiative allows faith-based groups to discriminate in employment for any reason when using federal funds, and to disregard federal employment discrimination laws. In February 2004, the President earmarked another $3.7 billion for faith-based service providers.
Elizabeth Vargas of ABC News
In January 2006, Elizabeth Vargas, a respected 20-year broadcast journalist, began as co-anchor of ABC's World News Tonight. Of Hispanic heritage, Vargas exudes an cool air of thoughtful authority that viewers find reassuring, and has a penchant for social and religious issues. In May 2006, she resigned from World News Tonight, and was named co-anchor of ABC's 20/20.
Mandatory Health Insurance
In April 2006, MA Governor Mitt Romney signed into law a broad new program requiring all citizens to obtain health insurance. The state legislatures both strongly approved this landmark legislation on a bipartisan basis. The program's ambitious aim is to cover 95% of the state's 500,000 uninsured within three years. There are both pros and cons to this radical reform plan.
Obama on Education, NCLB
Sen. Barack Obama takes a strongly progressive stance for public education and for teachers, and against the use of publicly-funded vouchers to pay for private school education. His remarks include a number of controversial proposals and statements, including across-the-board pay raises for teachers, and redesign of standardized tests to support learning, not punishment of teachers
Iraq War Info Center
This Information Center chronicles the Iraq War, and the U.S. occupation of Iraq, via the most-read and most searched-for articles, columns and posts on statistics, vital information, news and views.
Obama on Immigration
An overview and quick-reading details of '08 presidential candidate Barack Obama's policies and plans for reform of U.S. immigration laws, regulations and practices.
Obama on Iraq
An overview of '08 presidential candidate Barack Obama's plan for ending the Iraq War, including bringing U.S. troops home, an aggressive diplomatic effort in the region, and the moral imperative for a humanitarian initiative for Iraqis.
McCain Rejects New GI Bill
The new GI Bill, introduced by Sen. Jim Webb, was co-sponsored by 57 U.S. senators, including all Senate Democrats, both Independents and 10 Senate Republicans. But President Bush and Sen. John McCain opposed the bill as providing overly generous benefits to U.S. soldiers.
US Senator Hillary Clinton
Sen. Clinton is a strong, outspoken leader with sharp intelligence, political sensibilities, predilection for working hard, and persistence in pursuing her agenda. She touts herself as an aggressive fighter, and openly savors the tough thrust and parry of political campaigning. In private...
Obama on AIDS & Faith
The following is the text of Senator Barack Obama's courageous, savvy speech on AIDS, faith and politics he delivered on Dec 1, 2006 at the Global Summit on AIDS at Pastor Rick Warren's Saddleback Church.
Gov. Janet Napolitano of AZ
Janet Napolitano was elected as Arizona Governor in 2002, and reelected in 2006. In November 2005, Time magazine named her one of the top five U.S. governors. A little know fact about her: In 1991, Janet Napolitano served as the attorney for law professor Anita Hill when Hill testified against U.S. Supreme Court nominee Clarence Thomas...
Brad Pitt, Activist
As film star Brad Pitt has aged, the more publicly active he's become in supporting Democratic candidates and causes, including John Kerry in 2004, environmentalism, alternative fuels and energy-efficient cars, and global issues of trade, poverty and AIDS. And like close pal George Clooney, Pitt, is increasingly using his film skills and connections to bring political issues to the Hollywood silver screen.
Pell Grants Updated for 2006
Description and current status of Pell Grants, including 2004 eligibility changes that caused 90,000 students to lose their grants and a million more students to have their grants greatly reduced.
US Senator Bill Nelson
Sen. Bill Nelson of Florida was first elected to the US Senate in 2000, and reelected in 2006. Nelson, a politician for 30 years and an Army veteran, is a moderate Democrat and a member of the centrist Democratic Leadership Council.
Profile of Elizabeth Edwards
Candid profile of Elizabeth Edwards in her campaign role as spouse to John Edwards, 2008 presidential candidate.
Politics of George Clooney
"I'm a liberal. I'm confused when that became a bad word...." actor George Clooney told CNN's Larry King on February 16,2006. "...the liberal movement morally, you know, has stood on the right side of an awful lot of issues. We thought that blacks should be allowed to sit at the front of the bus and women should be able to vote, McCarthy was wrong, Vietnam was a mistake."
Al Franken - 2008 Senate Race
In Feb 2007, author/comedian Al Franken announced his candidacy for the 2008 Democratic nomination for the U.S. Senate seat from Minnesota. Franken holds strongly progressive beliefs, and is a bright, serious intellectual. Franken was a writer/actor on Saturday Night Live for 15 years, for which he won 3 Emmy awards for writing.
Wesley Clark in 2008
A guide to Wesley Clark at About.com Liberal Politics, including the most-read articles, profiles and links to books authored by the general.
Obama-Universal Health
Delivered by Sen. Barack Obama of Illinois, a candidate for the 2008 Democratic nomination for the presidency: THE TIME HAS COME FOR UNIVERSAL HEALTH CARE on Thursday, January 25, 2007 at the Families USA Conference, Washington, DC.
Obama in 2008 Race
On Feb 10, 2007, Sen. Barack Obama declared that he's a candidate for the 2008 presidential race. This is a directory to top articles and profiles about, and speeches by, Barack Obama, at About.com Liberal Politics.
Bono's Prayer Breakfast Speech
This speech, dubbed a sermon by many, was delivered on February 2, 2006 at the Washington DC Hilton, by activist and rock star Bono, to the 51st annual National Prayer Breakfast, attended by President George Bush and hundreds of national leaders. Bono is an energetic, non-partisan AIDS and anti-poverty activist who focuses his crusade on Africa. His remarks at the 2006 National Prayer Breakfast have been widely acclaimed as a uniquely powerful blend of faith and the mission of governments.
Obama on Health Care
An overview and quick-reading details of '08 presidential candidate Barack Obama's health care policies.
Gov. Eliot Spitzer of New York
Democrat Eliot Spitzer was elected in 1998 and 2002 as New York state Attorney General. In November 2006, Spitzer was elected to a 4-year term as Governor of New York state, but was forced to resign from office in March 2008 due to charges of his involvement in prostitution.
US Senator Joseph Biden
Six-term Sen. Joseph Biden is he's one of the most charismatic and articulate members of the US Senate. In the 110th Congress, Biden is the powerful Chair of the Senate foreign Relation Committee. He briefly ran as a presidential candidate in the 2008 race.
Obama Victory Speech
The full text of Sen. Barack Obama's primary season victory speech remarks on June 3, 2008 in St. Paul, Minnesota, on the final night of the primary season.
US Senator Harry Reid
Profile and biographical sketch of US Senator Harry Reid, Democrat from Nevada. Senator Reid was elected the new Senate Democratic leader in November 2004, succeeding Tom Daschle of South Dakota. Senator Reid seems an unlikely candidate to be a Democratic leader, as he opposes abortion rights and gun control.
Obama on Martin Luther King
The complete text of the inspiring remarks of U.S. Senator Barack Obama delivered at the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. National Memorial Groundbreaking Ceremony on November 13, 2006.
Nancy Pelosi, House Speaker
Profile of Congresswoman Nancy Pelosi, Democrat from San Francisco, California. In January 2007, Nancy Pelosi became the first female Speaker of the House, and thus, become the most politically powerful woman in U.S. history.
Obama Fundraising Stats
The following fundraising statistics and key contributor info for the Obama for America campaign were taken from the most recent Federal Election Commission report.
Obama Rejects Torture Bill
Senator Barack Obama delivered this speech on the floor of the US Senate, in reaction to Senate passage of S. 3930, Military Commissions Act of 2006, which approved US torture of detainees and strips Constitutional rights away from detainees. Senator Obama decries the placement of politics over human rights, and condemns S. 3930. He states, "This is not how a serious Administration would approach the problem of terrorism."
US Senator Russ Feingold
Profile of Senator Russ Feingold of Wisconsin, who has the distinction of being the only Senator to vote against the US Patriot Act in 2001. When he did so, many thought it spelled the end of his career. He's now seen as visionary by many. He also voted against the Iraq War in 2002, and was the first senator to call for a specific timetable for US tropps to exit Iraq. He's a maverick who has passion for civil rights, education and especially, fiscal ethics and responsibility.
2008 Race: Mark Warner
In Sept 2007, former Virginia Governor Mark Warner announced that he will run in 2008 for the Senate seat being vacated by Republican Sen. John Warner. Warner was a popular governor due to his record of bipartisan successes, centrist stances and management skills.
Obama Debate Scorecard
Dissects and rates Sen. Barack Obama in each of the Democratic 2008 debates and at certain conventions and conferences at which the Democratic candidates spoke.
Obama on Patriotism
Full text of Barack Obama's insightful speech on June 30, 2008 on the meaning of patriotism, entitled "The America We Love."
Profile of Harold Ford, Jr.
Ford, a 5-term Congressman, was Tennessee's 2006 Senate Democratic nominee. In January 2006, he became leader of the Democratic Leadership Council. He's a young, attractive African-American, born to a wealthy, scandal-ridden Memphis family.
US Senator Debbie Stabenow
Sen. Debbie Stabenow of Michigan was first elected to the US Senate in 2000 in a bitter contest with the incumbent Republican. She was reelected in 2006. Sen. Stabenow is a skilled legislator, tenacious advocate for her causes, and was one of 23 senators to vote against the Iraq War in 2002.
Gov. Kathleen Sebelius of KS
Democrat Kathleen Gilligan Sebelius was elected the 44th Governor of red-state Kansas in 2002, and reelected by wide margin in 2006. A popular moderate with pro-business, pro-military leanings, she served in 2007 as President of the Democratic Governors Association, which is often a launching pad for national political plans.
Tom Udall, Senate Candidate
Rep. Tom Udall is a five-term Congressman from New Mexico. Hailing from a family famed for its passion for preserving the environment, and is a champion of all environmental issues. Udall voted against the Iraq War in 2002.
LA Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa
Antonio Villaraigosa was firmly catapulted onto the national stage as a leading Latino Democratic superstar with his election in May 2005 as Mayor of Los Angeles, his birthplace. He's a dynamic speaker, tireless campaigner and shrewd politican with an optimistic spirit and restless energy. His story is one of a hardscrabble and troubled youth, the education and redemption followed by leadership and occasional stumbles.
Iraq's 18 Benchmarks
A listing of the 18 benchmarks for "success in Iraq." The benchmarks were drafted by Iraqi leaders, and inserted into U.S. Congressional bill H.R. 2206, a supplemental Iraq War funding legislation which was passed by Congress in late May 2007.
Greenspan-Ayn Rand Loyalist?
Alan Greenspan is "one of the biggest political hacks in Washington" declared four-term Senator Harry Reid. Princeton economist Paul Krugman said Greenspan "betrayed the trust placed in the Fed chairman." What has the leading US economist of the 1980s and 1990s doe to inspire such anger? The answer may be found in his political loyalties to Geroge Bush. Or they may be in his 20-year association with Ayn Rand, famed atheist Social Darwinist.
Bush Education Cuts
George Bush's education budget cuts of $2 billion for fiscal 2006 actually provide more funds for wealthier students, while taking educational opportunities and assistance away from poor, disabled and immigrant students. Meanwhile, Donald Rumsfeld has an additional $20 billion to spend on bombs, battleships and even spiffy new Army uniforms.
Gov Bill Richardson Profile
Gov. Bill Richardson of New Mexico was elected in 2002 and reelected in 2006. On May 21, 2007, he declared his candidacy for the 2008 presidency, and was on John Kerry's 2004 VP short list. He was a Congressman for 14 years, UN Ambassador from 1997-98 and Energy Secretary from 1998-01.
Profile of Barbara Richardson
Candid profile of Barbara Richardson in her campaign role as spouse to Bill Richardson, 2008 presidential candidate.
Obama on the Economy
An overview and quick-reading details of '08 presidential candidate Barack Obama's policies and plans to repair the U.S. economy for middle-class Americans.
Obama on Israel, Iran, Iraq
Sen. Barack Obama (D-IL) delivered these remarks on Israel, Iran, Iraq and the Middle East to the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC) Policy Forum held on March 2, 2007 in Chicago, Illinois.
2008 Presidential Debates
The dates, locations and formats of the three debates between the 2008 presidential candidates and one debate between the vice-presidential candidates. Also lists the eligibility qualifications to be included in 2008 debates.
Martin Luther King ,Jr Words
The Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. (1929-1968), a Baptist minister, was the best-known leader of the US civil rights movement. The crowning achievements of Dr. King's drive for equality for all Americans were the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Voting Rights Act of 1965. The inspiring words selected for this article are taken mainly from "The Words of Martin Luther King, Jr," published in 1984.
NCLB Info Center Hub
This Information Center reports and describes the status, politics and pros/cons of the controversial Child Left Behind Act, via the most-read and most searched-for articles and columns at About.com's Guide to Liberal Politics.
Profile of Bill Clinton
Candid profile of Bill Clinton in his campaign role as spouse to Hillary Clinton, 2008 presidential candidate.
Who Was Cesar Chavez?
Cesar Chavez, admired by world leaders, never owned a home. Never earned more than $6000 in a year. He was a California migrant worker all his life who did much to secure better wages, health care and working conditons for Latino migrant workers. He was awarded the Prsidential Medal of Freedom by Bill Clinton. His 1993 funeral, attended by 50,000, was presided over by Catholic Cardinal Roger Mahoney.
Profile of Sen. Jim Webb
James H. "Jim" Webb was elected to the U.S. Senate on November 7, 2006, in a surprise defeat of incumbent Republican Senator George Allen. Webb's margin of victory was less than one-half of 1% of the vote. Webb is a highly decorated Vietnam veteran and the former Secretary of Navy under President Reagan. Webb is also the author of 6 acclaimed Vietnam-based novels, and an award-winning filmmaker.
Obama on Education
An overview and quick-reading details of '08 presidential candidate Barack Obama's policies on education reform, increase support for teachers, and college affordability.
Chris Matthews of MSNBC
Chris Matthews is the feisty, outspoken host of MSNBC's Hardball, a top-rated program devoted to poltical news. Matthews is known for his "hardball" grilling of interviewees, and for his in-depth knowledge and deep love of politics.
Profile of Judge John Roberts
The President nominated federal appeals court Judge John Roberts in July 2005 to fill the Supreme Court vacancy. Described as smart, cautious and fair-minded, Roberts is a conservative Washington insider who has worked at the White House, the Justice Department and in private practice. In his 2 years as judge, Roberts authored 40 opinions, only 3 of which drew any dissent. He won 25 of 39 cases he argued in front of the Supreme Court. Roberts' wife is also an accompished attorney.
Jon Stewart, Serious Comedian
With his fearlessly brilliant and biting politically-laced humor, comedian Jon Stewart gives a clear voice to widespread American frustration over Bush administration missteps and hypocrisies, and to all of today's politicians and political climate. His four-night weekly Comedy Central cable program The Daily Show is a must-watch program among the young, liberals and political-insiders.
US Senator Kent Conrad
Senator Kent Conrad of North Dakota was first elected to the US Senate in 1986, and was reelected in 2006. Conrad is the most fiscally astute of Senate Democrats, and is Chairman of the Budget Committee in the 110th Congress. He's known as driven and honorable, and holds no political ambitions beyond the Senate.
US Senator Jeff Bingaman
Sen. Jeff Bingaman, five-term senator from New Mexico, is an intelligent, low-key senator dubbed by his home state newspapers as the "education" senator, and is a passionate advocate of energy conservation.
US Senator Dianne Feinstein
Senator Dianne Feinstein (D-CA) is an astute liberal voice of authority and reasoned moderation and an effective, prolific legislator with a passion for preserving the environment. Feinstein catapulted to prominence in 1978 when San Francisco Mayor Moscone was assassinated.
Social Security Facts
Seventeen facts about why most Americans correctly believe that Social Security should NOT be privatized.
MLK I Have a Dream speech
Presents the text of Martin Luther King's "I Have a Dream" speech, delivered on August 28, 1963 at the Lincoln Memorial in Washington D.C. as part of the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom. Historians consider one of the greatest of American political speeches.
Permanent US Bases in Iraq
Here is info published by the world's leading news media sources about the new US Embassy in Baghdad's Green Zone. It is/has the largest embassy in world history; the only building project in Iraq on-time and on-budget; a bomb-proof super-bunker; 21 buildings on 104 acres, the size of 80 football fields; and wired for state-of-the-art communications and surveillance. Congress was told that the cost is $592 million.....
Edwards Fundraising Stats
The following fundraising statistics and key contributor data for the John Edwards for President campaign were taken from the most recent Federal Election Commission report.
Obama Speech on Race
Courageous remarks entitled "A More Perfect Union" by Sen. Barack Obama on March 18th, 2008 in Philadelphia.
Bush Moves to Privatize Amtrak
The Bush budget for 2006 proposes ending federal support of Amtrak, the only US national passenger rail service. Eliminating federal support will force Amtrak into bankruptcy and will cause it to shut operations. This move will push more riders into gas-guzzling, polluting cars and planes. Some claim that the Bush Administration has sold the railroads out to oil, airline and automotive interests. Even Senator Rick Santorum said "It's not acceptable to me."
US Senator Maria Cantwell
Senator Maria Cantwell of Washington was first elected to the Senate in 2000, and reelected in 2006. Cantwell is best known for her pro-environment stances and leadership in developing alternative energy sources.
Senate Committee Chairs
On November 15, 2006, the new Senate Democratic leadership team announced the slate of Democrats who will serve as Chairs of the various Senate Committees for the 110th Congress, from 2007-08. Committee chairs are highly sought after, and are determined by party leadership based on seniority, expertise and proven interest. The US Senate's 20 committees will be chaired in the 110th Congress by the following long-serving Democratic senators...
Sen Bob Casey, Jr. of PA
Bob Casey, Jr., former State Treasurer of Pennsylvania, was elected as US Senator, defeating Republican incumbent Rick Santorum. Casey will be up for reelection on November 8, 2012. Casey is a firm believer in fiscal discipline. As state Auditor General, he compiled an impressive record of fighting wasteful spending and bureaucratic inefficiencies and errors. A devout Catholic, Casey does not support abortion and holds pro-life views, which is at odds with Democratic Party stances.
More Than Two Moral Values
Jim Wallis, bestselling author of "God's Politics: Why the Right Gets It Wrong and the Left Doesn't Get It" is barnstorming the country, preaching his message of connecting public policies with biblical teachings. "When did God become pro-war, pro-rich and only pro-american" he asks. He's a captivting speaker who loves the stage. He has a infectious smile, loads of energy and plenty of polish.
US Senator Joe Lieberman
"Democrats are losing patience with Joe Lieberman" writes the SmirkingChimp.com blog. DemocraticWings.com nominated Joe Lieberman to the Democratic Hall of Shame.There's even a "DumpJoe" Yahoo user group that asks, "Had enough of Joe Lieberman playing both sides of the aisle? Sucking up to Sean Hannity and Bill O'Reilly on FoxNews?" Bluntly, US Senator Joe Lieberman (D-CT) is up for reelection in 2006, and he has a problem.
Bush Budget Slashes Education
In his fiscal budget plan for the federal 2006-2007 year that commences on October 1, 2006, President Bush proposes to end 42 US Department of Education programs and significantly reduce spending for four other Education programs, for total budget cuts of $4.279 trillion. This article is a complete listing of those 46 programs, along with program descriptions per the US Department of Education website.
Obama's Iowa Win Speech
Sen. Barack Obama delivered this eloquent, soaring speech to thunderous ovation and public accolade after he won the Iowa Democratic caucus on January 3, 2008. His words were strongly reminiscent of Obama's inspiring 2004 Democratic convention speech.
Journalist Jeff
The tawdry and mysterious tale of Bush White House pseudo-reporter Jeff Gannon, aka James Guckert, would be amusingly juicy if it wasn't so scary and slimy.
Obama on Civil Rights
An overview of '08 presidential candidate Barack Obama's policies and plans on U.S. civil liberties and rights.
US Senator Barbara Boxer
Profile and brief biographical sketch of US Senator Barbara Boxer, Democrat from California.
NAY Votes in 2002 on Iraq War
It's time we honored Congress members who voted in 2002 to prevent the Bush Administration's hasty rush to attack and occupy Iraq. The vote was taken on October 11, 2002. It passed the Senate by a vote of 77 to 23 and the House by a vote of 296 to 133. Here are the names of the 156 members of Congress with the wisdom and foresight to make the correct decision for our nation.
Medicaid Made Simple
President Bush and the Republican-led House want to radically slash Medicaid by up to $20 billion over five years. Medicaid provides health care to 50 million Americans, including 1 of 4 children in the US and 7 million blind and disabled persons. The Senate, in a bipartisan blow to the President, rejected the Bush Medicaid cuts. I simplify and explain Medicaid so you can be part of the conversation.
Dems to End 95% of Abortions
Democratic members of Congress joined Democrats for Life of America (DFLA) in April 2005 to kick-off the organization's "95-10 Initiative," which consists of 17 programs designed to reduce US abortions by 95% within 10 years. At a press conference at DNC offices, Congressmen Tim Ryan (D-OH), Bart Stupak (D-MI) and Lincoln Davis (D-TN) jointly appeared to unveil the abortion-reduction plan. Ryan will be introducing the 95-10 Initiative soon in Congress.
Clinton Fundraising Stats
The following fundraising statistics and key contributor info for the Hillary Clinton for President Exploratory Committee were taken from the most recent Federal Election Commission report.
Iraq-Nat'l Security Statistics
This statistical data on National Security (Iraq, the US military, North Korea, DArfur, oil politics, aid) was taken from multiple sources, including the Department of Defense reports, Congressional hearings, United Nations reports, Brookings Institute, the Veterans of Foreign Wars and more than a dozen of the top national newspapers. This information was compiled by the Democratic Policy Committee, the research arm of the Senate Democratic Leadership, and released on September 6, 2005.
Rosie O'Donnell, Activist
Rosie O'Donnell assumed the moderator role in September 2006 on popular ABC talk show "The View," where she was the outspoken liberal foil to conservative co-host, Elisabeth Hasselbeck. After a heated May 23, 2007 argument with Hasselbeck over the Iraq War, Rosie was granted her request to not return to "The View."
Top 10 Books by Dem Senators
The following is my personal holiday season 2006 list of the Top Ten Books by Democratic US Senators. It's a varied list that includes serious tomes, two touching memoirs, an enchanting book for children, two abosrbing novels, and two delineating the newly influential Democratic economic populism.
2008 Dems on Free Trade
Free trade has evolved into a divisive issue among the top Democratic candidates in the 2008 presidential race. This is a brief summary of the top candidates' stances on U.S. free trade.
Army Recruiting of Teenagers
Buried in Bush's No Child Left Behind Act was a requirement that all high schools receiving federal funds must provide access to students' names, addresses and phone numbers to military recruiters. It also requires a high school to allow military recruiters the same campus access to students as granted to college recruiters. And in June 2005, the Pentagon began working with an outsourced direct marketing company to develop a database of personal information about every American age 16 to 18.
HR 810 - Stem Cell Act
The House passed H.R. 810, Stem Cell Research Enhancement Act of 2005, on May 24, 2005, by a vote of 238 to 194, and was passed by the Senate on July 18, 2006 by a vote of 63 to 37. Despite overhwhelming public support for it, President Bush vetoed the bill on ideological grounds supported by the religious right.
Sen Sherrod Brown of Ohio
Sherrod Brown, a 7-term member of the House of Representatives, was elected to the US Senate in November 2006, defeating the Republican incumbent. Brown is a passionate progressive, and critic of US free trade policies. He voted against the Iraq War in 2002. [p]
Profile of Coretta Scott King
Coretta Scott King is the widow of civil rights leader and Nobel Peace Prize winner Martin Luther King, Jr, assassinated in 1968. In her own right, Mrs. King is a tireless, effective advocate for human rights. For 27 years, she was CEO of the King Center she founded to continue her husband's principles of nonviolent social change. On August 16, 2005, Mrs. King suffered a major stroke that caused paralysis and left her unable to walk or speak.
US Liberal Politics - Articles
An index of Articles for the US Liberal Politics guide site.
Estate Tax Pros & Cons
President Bush wants to entirely end the federal estate tax. To do so would cut taxes of $745 billion of the wealthiest taxpayers over 10 years exactly when Social Security solvency becomes an immediate concern. In reality, this is a "back-door" way for Bush to accomplish two cherished Republican goals: to give even more tax breaks to wealthy families like the Bushes and Cheneys, and to erode or end Social Security benefits.
Clinton in 2008 Race
On January 20, 2007, Senator Hillary Clinton of New York declared that she's establishing an "exploratory committee" to investigate a run for the 2008 presidential race. Such a committee is a precursor to running for the White House. This is a directory to Hillary at About.com Liberal Politics, including articles and profiles about her, and books authored by the senator.
Obama - Financial Security
On Nov 7, 2007, Sen. Barack Obama delivered an unusual and inspiring campaign speech in which he outlined specific, outside-the-box plans to address the financial hardships facing middle-class Americans. Among the specific interesting points in Sen. Obama's "Agenda to Reclaim the American Dream" were...
Senator Mary Landrieu
US Senator Mary Landrieu of Louisiana was first elected in 1996 by a margin of less than 6,000 votes. She was reelected in 2002 in a hotly-contested election full of mud-slinging. Landrieu is a moderate Democrat who boasted in her 2002 campaign that she "voted with President Bush 74% of the time." She is a member of the "Gang of 14" moderate senators who crafted a 2005 compromise to the threatened filibuster of judicial nominees.
Gov. Jeanne Shaheen of NH
Jeanne Shaheen was elected to three two-year terms as Governor of New Hampshire, in 1996, 1998 and 2000. Politically powerful in New Hampshire, Shaheen used her shrewd instincts to help Gore win the Granite state in 2000 and Kerry in 2004.
Democratic Plan for Security
Republicans delight in falsely claiming that Democrats have no ideas on issues facing the US. It's a partisan mantra, not reality, of course. In March 2006, the Democratic Party issued "The Democratic Plan to Protect and Restore our Leadership in the World," which covers the military in the 21st century, the War on Terror, Homeland Security, Iraq and Energy Independence.
Obama Education Plan
In late November 2007, Sen. Barack Obama presented a thoughtful, fully-detailed plan to reform public schools, reward and support teachers, and correct the excesses/errors of No Child Left Behind Act. This article includes a brief summary of Sen. Obama's plan, the text of his interesting remarks, and a link to his complete plan.
5 Books-Take Action for Change
If you want to change our world by supporting a cause, a candidate or a movement, but you don't know where to start, here are five excellent, quick-reading books that I personally recommend to you. In fact, I recommend that everyone read and own these books as handy reminders of hundreds of practical and imaginative ways we can express our views and cause change.
Bush Ends Life-Saving Services
The Bush budget for fiscal 2006 includes $788 million in cuts to Health & Human Services programs, including the termination of 14 life-affirming and life-preserving programs for children and families. And despite impassioned pleas on behalf of Terri Schiavo., Bush and DeLay want to end the federal Traumatic Brain Injury Program that has helped thousands of Terri Schiavos in 49 states since 1997.
Obama's Plan for Iraq
Barack Obama's realistic, visionary plan for peace in Iraq, outlined in an important speech delivered on September 12, 2007 in Clinton, Iowa.
Rulings of Alberto Gonzales
The "paper trail" of Gonzales' judicial rulings and stances is scant and sketchy on hot-button issues as Gonzales was a Texas Supreme Court Justice only from 1999-2001. This is a summary of Gonzales' quotations and rulings gives a snapshot of past Gonzales positions on high-profile issues.
Peter Jennings (1938-2005)
Peter Charles Archibald Ewart Jennings was a dedicated and respected newsman, a 41-year employee of ABC News and lead ABC evening news anchor for 22 years. With handsome movie-star looks, a thirst for knowledge, a flexible intellect and extensive knowledge of the Middle East, Jennings was widely regarded as a leading journalist of his time who reported most of the milestone events of the late 20th century.
Obama-Iraq War Lessons
The eloquent and wise remarks of Senator Barack Obama on the lessons of the Iraq War, delivered on Wednesday, March 21, 2007.
Churches Slam Bush Budget
This statement (Ecumenical statement on Bush's 2006 federal budget) was released jointly in March 2005 by 5 leading US Christian denominations: The Episcopal church, USA; Evangelical Lutheran Church in America; Presbyterian church (USA); United Church of Christ; and United Methodist Church. Leaders of these denominations sent a letter to President George W. Bush in early December 2005, reiterating this joint statement.
Blue Dog Democrats
The Blue Dog Coalition was founded in 1994 to provide a unified voice for moderate members of the Democratic Party in the US House of Representatives, particuarly on economic issues. Although views of the 43 Blue Dogs of the 110th Congress (2007-07) range from conservative on social issues to populist on trade, Blue Dogs are strongly united on fiscal responsibility and budgetary matters.
Closing Public Libraries
The Salinas, California public library, home to the archives of Nobel Prize winning writer and resident John Steinbeck, will close its doors at the end of 2005,unless private donors soon contribute $3.2 million to replace funds taken by state government from city revenues. Salinas is not alone. Over the past few years, our worsening economy and Bush Administration budget cuts have caused massive waves of cutbacks at libraries nationwide.
Sen. Claire McCaskill of MO
Claire McCaskill was elected in November 2006 as U.S. Senator from Missouri in a close election that hinged, in part, of McCaskill's support of embryonic stem cell research. Sen. McCaskill is a national co-chair of the 2008 Obama for President campaign.
Democrats on Ethics
The Democratic Party agenda on honest and open government includes real ethics reform and meaingful finance reform to restore accountability, honesty and openness at all levels of government.
Obama on Energy
An overview and quick-reading details of '08 presidential candidate Barack Obama's policies on energy and the environment.
Democrats on Retirement
The Democratic Party Agenda on retirement security[/link] includes pledges to protect Social Security and to fight for pension reform that protects employees.
Ten Films with social Message
A Great Film uplifts while sending a profound message. And a Great Film also superbly entertains, with an interesting story and appealing actors. This is a list of some of my favorite Top Ten Classic Films with a Social Message. My choices include classics released from 1940 to 2006.
Obama or Clinton?
The lively and frank, most-read articles at About.com Liberal Politics dissecting the too-close-to-call race between these two outstanding presidential candidates.
Obama Announcement
Full text of Senator Barack Obama's announcement for the 2008 presidential race on February 10, 2007 in Springfield, Illinois.
Democratic Agenda in '07
The Democratic Party's agenda, as it takes control in January 2007 of both houses of Congress, is set forth in its report, A New Direction for America[/link], which was initially published 100 days before the November elections. The following is a summary of that Democratic six-point priority plan.
Liberalism 101 Hub
In 2006, the Democratic Party promised to address six important areas in Congress. This guide links to articles explaining the Democratic Party Agenda for these areas and issues.
Majority Whip James Clyburn
As House Majority Whip in the 110th Congress, Rep. James Clyburn (D-SC) is the highest-ranking African-American in Congress, and the most powerful Democrat in his home state. Clyburn's annual Fish Fry is the Democratic political event of the year in South Carolina.
Sen. Ted Kennedy of MA
When Ted Kennedy was first elected to the U.S. Senate in 1962 at age 30, he was widely regarded as a lightweight, there only by dent of having his brother as President. But 46 years later, Sen. Kennedy is one of the most accomplished and passionate legislators in U.S. Senate history.
Democrats Set US Agenda
Senate Democratic Leader Harry Reid on April 25, 2005, invoked a little-known Senate procedure called Rule XIV, and scheduled for full Senate vote nine bills that help everyday Americans cope with conditions under the bush Administration. The 9 bills are part of the new Democratic "Promise of America"Agenda.
House Committee Chairs
In December 2006, Speaker Nancy Pelosi announced the chairs of House Committees for the 110th Congress, which is in session from January 2007 to December 2008. House Committee chairs are powerful and highly sought after, and are determined based on expertise, leadership on the issue and seniority. The US House of Representatives committee chars in the 110th Congress are...
Feinstein Supports FISA Law
On August 3, 2006, Senator Dianne Feinstein, a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, delivered this insightful speech, urging the committee to reject S.2353, the National Security Surveillance Act, sponsored by Senator Specter (R-PA) and strongly supported by the Bush Administration. After Senator Feinstein's bold statement, the Senate Judiciary Committee rejected S.2453, thus disallowing it from proceeding to vote by the full Senate.
John Kerry on Vietnam
"How do you ask a man to be the last man to die for a mistake?" This article presents, in full, the famed testimony that John Kerry, then a decorated, 27 year old Navy veteran of Vietnam, made before the Senate Foreign Relations Committee on April 23, 1971 about the Vietnam War.
Democrats on Natl Security
The following is the Democratic Party agenda on national security. ""We will protect Americans at home and lead the world by telling the truth to our troops, our citizens and our allies... "
Landmark Al Gore Speech
On January 16, 2006, which was the Martin Luther King, Jr. federal holiday, Al Gore delivered one of the great speeches in American history to numerous standing ovations at the standing-room-only Daughters of the American Revolution Constitution Hall in Washington DC. This article presents excerpts of that 13-page blunt-spoken speech, which assailed President George Bush for breaking US law, and repeatedly and consciously violating the US Constitution.
Anti-War Events Sept 2007
Events around the U.S., to register protest, through both small, meaningful gestures and large-scale events, of the continuing Iraq War. Major marches, planned and supported by a myriad of organizations, are planned for D.C. on September 15th and again on the September 29th. Below are but a few of the most exciting, energizing events, with links for more info.
Immigration Reform Hub
This Info Center describes the status and politics of immigration reform and illegal immigration, via the most-read and most searched-for articles, columns and posts at About.com's Guide to Liberal Politics.
Bush Approval at Record Low
This article reports extracts from a CBS News poll which was conducted on October 3-5, 2005. President Bush's overall job approval rating has reached the lowest ever measured in this poll, and evaluations of his handling of Iraq, the economy and even his signature issue, terrorism, are also at all-time lows. More Americans than at any time since he took office think he does not share their priorities. 69% of Americans say things in the United States are pretty seriously off on the wrong track.
Convention Delegate Diary
I was elected in January 2007 to be a voting delegate for both the 2007 and 2008 California Democratic Party Conventions. I blogged an online diary to be able to share the experience as delegate with readers. This I can tell you: I found the experience of being a convention delegate to be more rewarding and eye-opening than I ever imagined. And much more fun than anyone told me...
Bush Kills Kids Health Care
Summary of the Bush administration's drive to cripple bipartisan Congressional bills to expand the SCHIP program, which provides federal funds to states to give health care services to uninsured children from lower-income families.
Oprah Winfrey, Activist
Oprah Gail Winfrey is considered by many to be the most influential woman in the world. Oprah believes that the causes and candidate she champions transcend liberal or conservative labels. Some detractors charge that her top-rated show has a liberal slant.
Sen Ben Cardin of Maryland
Ten-term Rep. Ben Cardin was elected in November 2006 to Maryland's US Senate seat vacated by retiring Sen. Paul Sarbanes. Cardin is up for reelection on November 8, 2012. Cardin is a respected bipartisan legislator who voted against the Iraq War in 2002. He opposes Social Security privatization, and supports embryonic stem cell research. He's widely respected for his ethical leadership.
Sen Sheldon Whitehouse of RI
Sheldon Whitehouse, former Attorney General of Rhode Island, was elected US Senator in November 2006, defeating the incumbent Republican. Whitehouse is a classic New England liberal with a heart for public service who believes that fixing health care is a top priority.
Catholic Cardinal Slams Law
In response to an immigration bill passed in late 2005 by the US House, Catholic Cardinal Roger Mahony, Archbishop of Los Angeles, the largest US diocese with five million Catholics, wrote this letter to President Bush, decrying the new mandate that organizations first check immigration status before providing services to any person

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