John Rothmann

Around the Political World with John Rothmann ~ May 24, 2013

I will be filling in for my colleague Gil Gross on KKSF 910 AM on Memorial Day, Monday May 27^th from 3:00 to 7:00 PM.  Please join me as we talk about the issues of the day.  The number to call is 1-800- 345-5639.  It will be great to be back on the air with you on Monday.

• President Obama gave a major talk on terror, Guantanamo and drones at the National Defense University. He signed new guidelines that will serve to guide our future actions.   He made clear that “this war, like all wars must end.” The truth is that this war will not end until the terrorists stop their war on us.  He explained that while drones will continue  to be used, he wants to achieve a “near certainty that no civilians will be killed or injured.”  Bluntly, that is virtually impossible to achieve.  No matter what we do, war is not clean and innocents do die.  He further described his personal feelings that the death of innocents haunt him and will continue to haunt him in the years ahead. He is correct, but that should always be our feeling in the midst of war.  He reaffirmed his determination to close Guantanamo. That will be tough to do without Republican support and a clear determination about the future of those we hold in detention. Reaction to his words fell along predictably partisan political lines.  The bottom line is that our efforts to thwart terror and terror plots will continue long into the foreseeable future. The Obama Administration will ultimately be judged not by guidelines or rhetoric, but by whether we are able to live with some degree of safety as we face the unique challenges of the continuing threat of terrorism.  The rising tide of radical Islam continues to gain strength and that is the real challenge that we face.

• What needs to be understood is that terror is with us every day. That reality was demonstrated tragically by what happened on a London street yesterday. The name of the British soldier hacked to death by Islamic extremists in broad daylight has been announced.  His name was Lee Higby and he had served in Afghanistan.  It is reported that British intelligence knew the names of the two men who committed the atrocity, but did not consider them to be a threat.  The attackers are alive and in a London hospital. Their trial will provide a fascinating look into the motivations behind an act of madness.  Britain is nervous about the potential threat of future attacks. The country is now on high alert.  That is the true triumph of terror.

• The ongoing federal budget deadlock and the impact of sequestration have brought about another furlough day.  Four federal agencies will take a day off today.  The I.R.S.,  E.P.A., H.U.D and O.M.B are the agencies impacted. . This move affects 115,000 workers who will not be paid today.  That computes to 5% of federal workers.  Until the Congress acts to resolve the deadlock over the budget, we will continue to feel the effects of Congressional inaction. 

• I.R.S. official Lois Lerner has been placed on administrative leave with pay following her decision to claim her 5^th Amendment rights relative to testimony before Congress. The real question is about what “higher ups” knew and when they knew it must be determined.  The “buck” does not stop with Lerner.  She will be called before Congress again and more questions will be forthcoming.  Let’s hope we get answers!

• Michael Isicoff of NBC News has reported that Attorney General Eric Holder personally approved the investigation of FOX News reporter James Rosen.  The accuracy of that report needs to be confirmed or denied.  If it is true, Holder will have to provide clear justification for an action that has been almost universally questioned.  Freedom of the press and the defense of the 1^st Amendment is the issue. Attorney General Holder has a credibility problem that continues to grow every day.  No matter how close he is to President Obama, it is clear that his ability to continue to serve is on the line. 

• As Obama Care is implemented, more and more questions are being raised about the program.  Union support was critical in getting the Affordable Care Act passed.  Some union officials are raising questions about whether the program is  affordable and  if it will provide more effective healthcare for workers.  The Republicans plan to make this a central issue in the mid-term elections. This is a serious problem for the Democrats who need to hold and expand their base if they are to take control of the House of Representatives.   

• The social divide in America was clearly exposed yesterday as the Boy Scouts of America voted to approve the acceptance of gay scouts.  The vote by the National Council was 61% for and 39% opposed. Boys between the ages of 11 and 18 who are gay will be allowed to join the scouts.  While gay scout masters will not be permitted, this is a major change for the 103 year old movement.  This action has aroused tremendous opposition.   Many troops are sponsored by churches.  The ripple effect of this decision will be felt in the days ahead.  Passions are running high and those opposed to this action will most certainly be heard from as the debate continues.

On this Memorial Day weekend, let us remember those who gave their lives that we might be free.  We owe those brave men and women a debt beyond words.  May their memories be an inspiration and a blessing to all Americans.

Around the Political World with John Rothmann ~ May 23, 2013

Today is filled with important news stories and there is a lot to talk about that will generate much discussion.  Wherever you are, whatever you are doing, the news matters and it is important to be informed.

• The terror attack in London is horrifying. This planned attack by two radical Islamic terrorists has sent shivers throughout the world. The hacking to death of a man, in the British military, in broad day light, on a London street creates an ongoing climate of fear and terror. That is the ultimate goal of terror. What makes it so terrifying is that it can happen to anyone, anytime, anywhere, without warning and can be committed by individuals who simply want to commit an act of terror.   Individual terrorist actions are often even more disruptive in an immediate sense than state sponsored terrorism. 

• President Obama has clearly stated that drone attacks are “needed, legal and just”. The Obama statement today will cause the debate over the use of drones to grow in the days ahead.  It has been revealed by the Department of Justice that drone attacks have killed 4 U.S. citizens. Constitutional and moral issues abound in the debate over the use of drones.

• President Obama has reaffirmed his determination to close Guantanamo and transfer the remaining detainees to 3^rd countries.  Closing Guantanamo is a purely cosmetic gesture.  It will not ameliorate the anti-American feelings of radical Islamists around the world.

• It is now clear that White House Counsel Kathryn Ruemmler and White House Chief of Staff Denis McDonough knew about the I.R.S. scandal but chose not to tell President Obama.  Their goal was to “protect him” from the situation. If I were president they would both be gone. Their decision not to inform the president was completely irresponsible.  What they accomplished was to cause even more questions to be raised.  No doubt they will be called before Congress to provide the ultimate answers to the tough questions that need to be answered.  The bottom line is the question posed by then Senator Howard Baker in the midst of the Watergate hearings, “What did the President know and when did he know it?”

• I.R.S. official Lois Lerner who took the 5^th yesterday, will most certainly be called before Congress again to give testimony.  Ultimately, she will have to testify.  My feeling is that that should be sooner rather than later.

• Texas Republican Senator Ted Cruz is running for president in 2016.  He running as an outside of Washington candidate.  His latest views expressed about the budget and fiscal crisis facing the country sums up his approach clearly.  “Let me be clear.  I don’t trust the Republicans.  I don’t trust the Democrats and I think a whole lot of Americans likewise don’t trust the Republicans or the Democrats because it is leadership of both parties that has got us into this mess.”  His goal is to tap into those cynical, disenchanted voters who are looking for a candidate who can express their frustration.  That is the strength behind the emerging candidacy of Ted Cruz.

• Secretary of State John Kerry, traveling in the Middle East, says that if diplomacy fails, we will give more aid to the Syrian rebels.  Given the fact that radical Islam is now the key force among the rebels, this move would certainly raise even greater problems in the Middle East.  A radical Islamic Syria would be a disaster for the entire region and for the United States.

• The “Nuclear Iran Prevention Act of 2013” passed the United States Senate 99-0.  The resolution affirms that the U.S. will back Israel in the event of a decision to hit Iran. 

• The International Atomic Energy Agency (I.A.E.A.) has revealed that Iran is proceeding to build a research reactor near Arak, Iran.  This move simply serves to escalate the increasing tensions over Iran’s nuclear program.

• Japan’s Nikkei index fell 7.3% in its last trading session.  The ripple effect across financial markets is being felt today.  This unsteadiness is in part due to Ben Bernanke’s statements yesterday. It is even more connected to our own fiscal problems. There is no doubt that it is the American economy which drives the economies of the world.  If we have problems, and we do, so will the rest of the world.

• Reports of increasing violence in Mexico due to the drug cartels should cause us great concern.  President Obama met several weeks ago with the President Enrique Pena Nieto. The meeting did not have any direct effect on the ongoing violence. We will continue to feel the effects of this “drug war” with increasing intensity on our side of the border.

• The Boy Scouts of America will vote today on the question of permitting openly gay scouts.  This is a big issue and will dramatically impact the future of the scouting movement.  This does not deal with the issue of openly gay scout masters.  This is an issue that brings us back to social issues and the “wedge issues” that clearly continue to impact American voters.

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Around the Political World with John Rothmann ~ May 22, 2013

Here is what you should be thinking about and talking about as you go through your day.

• The BIG news in the Bay Area is that the 50^th Super Bowl will be held in Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara in 2016!  Three cheers for Mayor Ed Lee, the leadership in Santa Clara and all of those who worked so hard to score this “touch down”!

• This morning I.R.S. tax exempt office official Lois Lerner decided to plead the 5^th Amendment rather than answer direct questions from the Congress.  She had the Constitutional right to take this action, but it is the wrong thing to do as more questions abound about what really happened in the growing I.R.S. scandal. She clearly was not forthcoming in response to previous questions from members of Congress. One of the finest political reporters in the country Dan Baltz, writing for the Washington Post, observed that the Obama Administration in its attempts to deal with this issue has raised more questions than answers.

• The New York Times editorial board hit hard today at the Obama Administration for its apparent lack of commitment to the 1^st Amendment pointing out what it called “a heavy tilt toward secrecy and insufficient concern about a free press.”  The Associated Press intrusion, coupled with the case of Fox News reporter James Rosen is disturbing to both liberal and conservative observers.  Reports that Rosen’s parents phone was checked during this process, has added fuel to the criticism.

• The White House official whose credibility has been most critically damaged in the last several weeks is Jay Carney.  The press corps depend on the White House Press Secretary to provide reasonably accurate information.  Carney’s confused time-line and less than precise comments have certainly compromised his ability to be trusted. 

• The Senate Judiciary Committee voted 13 to 5 to report out to the full Senate the “Gang of Eight” immigration bill.  Same sex spouses would not be granted rights under this version of the proposed legislation.  The bill has a chance to pass in the Democratic controlled Senate, but seems doomed in the Republican controlled House.  Republicans are struggling to reach out to the Hispanic/Latino voters in advance of 2014 and 2016.  The challenge for the G.O.P. will be to balance that effort, while not alienating the base of the party including the Tea Party grass roots. It appears that whatever they do, Republicans will make someone unhappy.

• The Ninth Circuit Court has struck down the Arizona 20-week law dealing with abortion. This is a very significant case that will most certainly be appealed and will end up in the Supreme Court.  Arizona’s direct challenge to Roe vs. Wade is only one of at least ten challenges by individual states which have passed laws which attempt to limit a woman’s right to choose.  This is not just a legal matter.  The states that have passed these restrictions are all controlled by Republicans.  The efforts to have the Court reverse itself on Roe vs. Wade is a key plank in the Republican Party agenda. The political implications in this battle are clear. 

• The emphasis on social issues in the political battles ahead should not be underestimated. Gay marriage, gun control, immigration, Obama Care, sequestration, abortion and more are the wedge issues that will most certainly motivate the bases of both parties to get out and vote.  Coupled with Benghazi, the I.R.S. and the Associated Press stories, it will most certainly be an exciting election season!

• With all of the critical issues just mentioned front and center, foreign policy concerns continue to mount.  Syria, Iraq, Afghanistan, Pakistan, the upcoming elections in Iran, the continuing turbulence in Egypt, the refugee crisis affecting Jordan, Lebanon and Turkey, the escalating tensions with North Korea, continuing cyber attacks by China, the ongoing threat from the rise of radical Islam should all be put on the front burner for debate and discussion. It is clear that our ability to deal with so many issues at one time is impossible.  Imagine what the life of the President of the United States must be like all of the time! 

The link for “Around the Political World with John Rothmann” is www.johnrothmann.com  Please forward the link to your friends, family and associates.  The more you read the more you will have to talk about through the day.  Keep your comments and feedback coming!

Around the Political World with John Rothmann ~ May 21, 2013

Here is what you should be talking about today …

• The impact of the massive twister that struck Moore, Oklahoma is stunning.  This truly was a “monster” tornado with 200 mph winds that caused massive destruction resulting the tragic loss of too many lives.  The weather for today may well offer more tough going in the hours ahead. President Obama has offered full federal support.  Our thoughts and prayers are with our neighbors in Oklahoma.

• The scandals in Washington continue to grow with each passing day.  The White House continues to change its story line about who knew what, when, in the I.R.S. situation.  After repeated assurance, we are now told that White House Chief of Staff Denis McDonough and White House Chief Counsel Kathy Ruemmrer both knew about the activities of the I.R.S. for more than two weeks prior to the story breaking,  but chose not to inform President Obama.  I can imagine the reaction of other presidents to this sort of revelation.  No doubt, there would have been immediate changes in the White House staff.  As the White House time line continues to change and its credibility is further damaged, President Obama must take the lead in responding to what is clearly a damaging situation.  While this is clearly not Watergate, it is most certainly not a good moment for President Obama and key members of his Administration.

• The report that Fox News reporter James Rosen was investigated by the F.B.I. on instructions from the Department of Justice is deeply troubling.  We are told that Rosen was suspected of espionage related to his covering a story about North Korea.  This revelation coming on top of the seizing of phone records and more from the Associated Press.  These incidents continue to raise many red flags about the Obama Administration and its respect, or lack of respect, for the 1^st Amendment.  In an unusual show of bipartisanship, Democrats and Republicans, liberals and conservatives, are all expressing deep concerns about these developments.

• The really big new that will be announced today is the location of Super Bowl 2016. The revenue generated for the Bay Area could total as much as $500 million. The new Santa Clara stadium would be showcased. This would be the first time that the San Francisco Bay Area would host the Super Bowl since 1985 when Stanford Stadium was the location of that exciting game.  We are all waiting for what we hope will be a positive announcement!

• It turns out that Apple was able to avoid paying billions of dollars in taxes due to tax loopholes.  Apple C.E.O. Tim Cook testifies before the Senate Permanent Subcommittee today.  It appears that nothing illegal was done in this matter. It is simply another case of corporate tax avoidance.  The simple truth is that our tax laws contain huge loopholes and suggestions for major tax reforms are clearly on the horizon.  I wonder if the Congress will have the courage to tackle this very tough issue. Remember, Apple, along with other major corporations that benefit from the current tax laws, provide major campaign contributions to those very members of Congress. This is hardly an incentive to implement changes that would impact corporations.

• Speaking at the University of California at Berkeley graduation yesterday, Governor Jerry Brown was clear about his view on the planned Labor Day opening of the Bay Bridge.  “First we have to make it safe,” said Brown.  He is absolutely correct!  John Fisher, an emeritus professor of civil engineering at Lehigh University, has offered the opinion that the bridge rods should be replaced. Once the questions about bridge safety are resolved, we must find out how this over budget, $6.4 billion project went wrong.  Responsibility and accountability must be established without delay.

• The deeply disturbing image of a Nazi flag being flown near the mosque of Beit Omar in the Gush Etzion region near Hebron, is a chilling reminder of a tragic history that continues to resonate.  A number of your e mails have been received with comments about the enduring relevance of our book “Icon of Evil-Hitler’s Mufti and the Rise of Radical Islam” (Random House, 2008). The book is available from Amazon.com. Unfortunately, what my co-author David Dalin and yours truly wrote about then, is more current than ever.  The rise of Jew-hatred in the world today has caused Secretary of State John Kerry to appoint Ira Forman to the State Department position dealing with this growing concern. 

• Breaking news from the Middle East reveals increased tensions between Israel and Syria.  Rockets have been fired into Syria and Israel has pledged to defend itself as the Syrian civil war escalates.  It has just been announced that Jordan is closing its borders to Syrian refugees.  The ripple effects across the region continue to grow.  Secretary of State John Kerry has his hands full as he returns to the Middle East.

• The questions about what happened concerning the events surrounding Benghazi continue to grow.  This is simply another situation that needs to be addressed more directly by the Obama Administration.

“Around the Political World with John Rothmann” is posted every weekday at www.johnrothmann.com Share this link with all of your friends, family and associates.  This website features the top news stories of the day in clear, bullet point form.  Keep the feedback coming!

Around the Political World with John Rothmann ~ May 20, 2013

These are the top stories in the news today.  Do you have a lunch meeting today?  Going to the gym with friends?  Read on for something to talk about! 

• The last few days have been very tough for President Obama.  On Friday the former acting head of the I.R.S. Steven Miller testified before the House Ways and Means Committee.  Joined by Treasury Inspector General J Russell George, both offered testimony that roused even greater incredulity.  An apology, coupled with a denial that Congress had been deceived in previous testimony continues to raise the level of doubts and concerns about what really happened at  the I.R.S. and in the White House. 

• Dan Pfeiffer, senior adviser to President Obama appeared on all 5 Sunday interview programs. It is very difficult to believe Pfeiffer’s statement that Obama first heard about the problem “ when it came out in the news “ Pfeiffer’s inadequate performance failed to answer the growing concerns about the I.R.S. , Benghazi, and the A.P. stories.  President Obama will have a real challenge this week as more questions are asked and clear answers need to be forthcoming.  For those who remember the statements issued by the Nixon White House at the beginning of the Watergate scandal, the rhetoric is very similar.  The Obama Administration must do more or its problems will continue to grow.

• Democrats in Congress are deeply concerned about the potential damage that is being done as they plan for the 2014 elections.  Their goal is to expand their numbers in the Senate and garner enough seats to take control of the House of Representatives.  The news from the White House hardly inspired confidence. Political pressures continue to grow on the Obama Administration to get out in front about these issues.

• There is some good news for the Democrats from a critical swing state. The Republican Party in Virginia has nominated State Attorney General Ken Cuccinelli for governor and E.W. Jackson for Lt. Governor.  The nominations of these two candidates shows a dramatic turn to the right by Republicans in Virginia.  Opposition to Obama Care, a strict pro-life position, support for voter I.D. cards and a “Tea Party” approach to politics all demonstrate a right of center direction.  If Virginia is any indication of the future of the national Republican Party, a more centrist vision in 2014 and 2016 does not seem likely. 

• North Korea has launched two more missiles.  That makes six launchings since Saturday. Concerns about North Korea continue to grow.  Speculation grows that another nuclear test is on the horizon.  It seems that there is little that the world can do to restrain these incendiary actions.

• Reports from Iraq and Afghanistan of more bombings and death receive little coverage and less attention in the media. The situations in both countries continue to go from bad to worse. Religious tensions continue to grow along with daily reports of growing violence. The silence from Washington and the editorial pages of our national newspapers is deafening. 

• Speaking of an incendiary situation that continues to grow, President Assad gave an interview to an Argentine newspaper.  He dismissed the proposed talks to be sponsored by the U.S. and Russia.  Assad made clear that he is not going anywhere and will continue to fight to retain power.  The Israelis have made clear that they will intervene to prevent Syria from using or transporting weapons that could increase the risk of attack by Syria or Hezbollah.  Assad has threatened to hit back at Israel if they attack.  Questions about the use of chemical weapons in the Syrian conflict remain unanswered.  The refugee flow out of Syria continues to grow.  This multi-layered crisis continues to expand with no solution in sight.

• Charles Piller of the Sacramento Bee has written a deeply disturbing story about the on-going scandal surrounding the new eastern span of the Bay Bridge.  Piller reports of corrosion issues relating to the post-tension tendons .Of particular concern is his report that this problem was first exposed in 2006.  Answers to his tough questions received less than adequate answers.  This latest revelation comes on top of questions about the problems with bolts and rods. Safety concerns continue to grow. What is going on with Caltrans?   Real answers to these questions from responsible media and others need to be given without delay. 

“Around the Political World with John Rothmann” continues to generate many comments and discussion.  Thanks for the positive feedback and continue to spread the word!

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Around the Political World with John Rothmann ~ May 17, 2013

• President Obama has given his full support to Attorney General Eric Holder.  Holder remains a lightening rod for Republicans.  Democrats are very restrained about expressing their continuing support for the attorney general.  One more revelation and the thin ice that supports Holder will almost certainly crack.

• The second term curse seems to continue with this administration.  It is now clear that President Obama’s ambitious agenda has been sidelined by the ongoing issues surrounding Benghazi, the I.R.S. and the A.P.  This is bad news for the Democrats.  It represents a life line to the Republicans.  President Obama must move quickly to resolve the questions surrounding these issues or he will not be able to move forward with his planned agenda.  Second terms historically have been difficult.  F.D.R., Eisenhower, Nixon, Reagan, Clinton, Bush, all had problems.  Self inflicted wounds seem to be a hazard for presidents in a second term.

• The President has emphasized that the Republicans opposed full funding for embassy security.  This was first developed as an issue during the Biden-Ryan vice presidential debate. You will recall that it was pointed out that Ryan and the Republicans had opposed requested funding for Embassy security during the budget battle.  This is an indication of the partisan battle now in focus over issues surrounding Benghazi.  If the rhetorical highly charged political back and forth can be put aside we might find out what we really need to know about what happened on September 11^th. Don’t hold your breath for this to happen!

• David Wierfel is the new head of the I.R.S.  The response to this change has been positive from both sides of the aisle.  The change is welcome, but the questions about what has happened will not go away. We are hearing that this morning as Steven Miller testifies before Congress.  He has stated that there was no partisanship of any kind involved in the I.R.S. scandal.  A lot of doubts about his statements were clearly evident in the hearing room. The sooner complete answers are forthcoming the better for all involved in this scandal.

• How quickly we forget…. John Edwards a former senator, 2004 vice presidential candidate and contender for the  Democratic party presidential nomination in 2004 and 2008, has reactivated his law license and will speak to lawyers in Florida in June.  Polls show there is less public interest in the current scandals in Washington, it is no surprise that Edwards will be accepted as he begins his return on the comeback trail.

• Sexual assault in the military is front and center in the news.  President Obama, members of Congress and our military leadership are all speaking out about this serious and pervasive problem.  Let’s hope that more than words will be employed to make a difference in dealing with this serious reality.

• I know that what follows may seem redundant, but the news from Afghanistan, Iraq, Syria and Iran is not good.  I would be irresponsible not to continue to emphasize these concerns which continue to grow every day.

• In Afghanistan, 6 more Americans and 9 Afghans have been killed in a Taliban assault on a N.A.T.O convoy in Kabul.  The Taliban has said that their spring offensive will continue with what will most certainly lead to more deadly results. 

• In Iraq the civil war between Sunnis and Shiites continues.  More than 21 people died yesterday in attacks throughout the country.  There was another car bombing in a Shiite neighborhood in Baghdad.  The conflict in Syria has spilled over into Iraq which serves to fuel the ever growing cycle of violence in Iraq.

• Even as the United States and Russia are attempting to convene an international conference on Syria, Russia is supplying more weapons, missiles with offensive capability, including advanced radar, to Assad.  In turn, the U.S. has repeated its firm position that Assad must go and we are continuing to supply the rebels with various “materials.” The flow of refugees from Syria, to Turkey, Jordan and Lebanon continues to grow. The concern surrounding the use of chemical weapons remains unresolved.

• In Iran, Saeed Jaili, a key Iranian nuclear negotiator and presidential candidate has spoken chilling words to the Financial Times.  In the interview he clearly states that he does not recognize Israel as a state.  He further declared that he does not recognize the “red lines” drawn in relation to Iran’s nuclear program.  This is not good news for those who hoped for a more constructive stand by Iran after their upcoming presidential election takes place.

• The San Francisco  Bay-to-Breakers is this weekend. The world of care free, public gatherings has been changed forever by the tragedy in Boston. Security will be very tight.  That includes more security cameras all along the running route, no back packs, removal of garbage cans, more police observing and running in the race and other unspecified security arrangements. This is a prelude to other large events scheduled for San Francisco including the Americas Cup this summer.

• .As you know, I am actively seeking full time employment.  The radio market in the Bay Area is tight, especially when it comes to talk show hosts.  I remain hopeful that something will emerge.  In the meantime, I am looking for other opportunities.  If you have any ideas let me know. With tongue firmly planted in cheek I might suggest the following completely unrealistic opportunity.  The Tribune Company, which owns the Los Angeles Times among other properties, is for sale.  The asking price is a mere $660 million.  As a kid who loved everything about Superman, I always though it would be great fun to be “Perry White” and be the “Chief “of a great metropolitan newspaper! Is anybody willing to write a check? This particular suggestion may not be serious, but with all the news breaking about the White House and an increasingly dangerous Middle East it is frustrating not to be behind a microphone on a full time basis. Let me know if you have any thoughts about job opportunities. 

Continue to spread the word about “Around the Political World with John Rothmann” and please sign up to be a Follower on this Tumblr blog!  Have a great weekend, I will be back on Monday.

Around the Political World with John Rothmann ~ May 16, 2013

• President Obama and Attorney General Holder both spoke to the nation yesterday.  They failed to put to rest the growing chorus of questions stemming from Benghazi, the I.R.S. and the A.P. controversies.  Republicans smell “blood in the water” and will continue their attack on a vulnerable Obama administration.  Democrats find themselves on the defensive and continue to hope that the Obama Administration will provide clearer answers.  The decision by the White House to release emails that deal with the prepared and revised talking points about Benghazi raise more questions than answers.  Attorney General Holder’s statement rejecting the idea of an independent council did not go over well with many in the Congress. It appears that these issues will continue to be an ongoing problem for President Obama and his team. The most important advice that I can give the President is to tell the truth.  Any hint of a cover up will cause a fire storm.

• The President will hold a joint press conference with the Prime Minister of Turkey at 9:00 A.M. Pacific time this morning.  We will all be listening.

• Steven Miller, the departing Acting Commissioner of the I.R.S. will testify before Congress tomorrow. Will he talk?  Will he plead the 5^th?  Will he answer questions or raise more questions? All eyes will be on Miller tomorrow.

• The revelation in a note written by Boston bombing suspect Szhokhar Tsarnaev is very revealing. It answers the question of what motivated the bombings.  It also raises very disturbing conclusions.  Szhokhar says the bombings were retribution for United States actions against Muslims in Iraq and Afghanistan.  He proclaimed his dead brother Tamerlan, to be a martyr who is now in paradise.  Szhokhar believes that when he dies, he will join his brother in paradise.  Szokhar Tsarmaev’s words reveal graphically the root of the problem of radical Islam.  This will be an ongoing problem for years to come.

• Bombings continue to rack Iraq and Afghanistan.  At least 11 were killed by a suicide bombing in Kabul.  In Baghdad more bombings have occurred.  At least 33 are dead in bombings throughout Iraq.  These attacks may not be in the headlines, but they should be part of our awareness on a daily basis. These wars are clearly not over.

• Out of Syria comes a very disturbing report.  Opposition rebel forces “executed” 11 Syrian government soldiers.  The 11 were accused of participating in government sponsored massacres.  The question of whether the opposition rebels are any better or worse than Assad remains a disturbing question.  The aggressive leadership among the rebels of radical Islamists remains a serious issue for President Obama. 

• Turkey’s prime minister is meeting with President Obama today at the White House. As I mentioned above, they will hold a joint press conference at 9:00AM Pacific time. Turkey and Jordan are particularly concerned about the flood of refugees from Syria that are coming into the country.  It is a ticking time bomb that will lead to regional destabilization.  Turkey needs help to deal with this growing problem.   

• The United Nations talks with Iran over nuclear issues have failed.  This is not good news.  Repeated failures of all attempts by the U.N. and the international community to deal with Iran’s nuclear threat continue to cause deep concern. This is a very dangerous situation.

• Yet another indication of growing problems relating to global warming is causing concern.  It is reported that nearly 1,000 kinds of fish in our oceans are fleeing in search of colder waters.  I am not a scientist, but it seems to me that given the fact that we all live on this planet, we ought to be responding in a more aggressive way to rising indications that something is happening in our world which will clearly impact the future of the human family.

• A major battle over guns is brewing as a result of legislation about to be signed by Maryland Governor Martin O’Malley.  Provisions of the law include a ban on nearly all semi-automatic rifles, a ban on magazines that hold more than 10 bullets, and a requirement that new gun owner’s fingerprints must be on file with the state police.  The National Rifle Association has announced that as soon as the law is signed, a court challenge will be filed.  Ultimately it will be the Supreme Court that will have to deal with the legality of gun laws that are being passed on a state-by-state basis.

•  Speaking of state-by-state laws, I reported yesterday on the proposal by the N.T.S.B. that the rate for being considered a drunk driver is changing from .08 to .05.  A number of key Republican legislators are saying that this decision should be made on a state-by-state basis.  Senator Roy Blount summed it up simply when he said “it is a state issue.”  The Republican Party has become the great advocate for state’s rights.  On issues ranging from guns, to abortion, to Obama Care, to the drunk-driving blood alcohol rate, the G.O.P. is taking a position that rejects the notion of federal dominance.  How ironic it is that the “Party of Lincoln” is now rejecting the considered position of Abraham Lincoln that, federal laws trump state laws.  At the end of the day it will be the Supreme Court that will decide key constitutional questions.

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Around the Political World with John Rothmann ~ May 15, 2913

• The decision to post this edition of “Around the Political World with John Rothmann” later in the day has proven to be fortuitous.  President Obama has just addressed the nation making a very brief statement..  Speaking directly to the issue of the misuse of the I.R.S. the President stated clearly that the conduct is unacceptable. He has pledged to make sure that this misconduct will not be repeated again.  Acting Commissioner of the I.R.S Steven Miller has either submitted his resignation, which was immediately accepted, or was fired by the President.   President Obama pledged to work with the Congress to insure that this will never happen again.  The statement was brief.  He will hold a press conference tomorrow and will answer further questions at that time.

• .Attorney General Eric Holder gave testimony before the House Judiciary Committee today.  He was asked to answer tough questions dealing with the I.R.S. and its focus on conservative groups as well as questions about the Justice Department action in seizing the Associated Press phone records. His answers were neither direct nor forthcoming.  Holder announced yesterday that he has recused himself in the A.P. case. He repeated that decision today.  Deputy Attorney General James Cole has been assigned to handle the matter.  Holder explained that he was questioned by the F.B.I. in May or June.  Holder made clear that he is not current on the details of the investigation. The suggestion that “lax supervision” is responsible for the I.R.S. situation will not be viewed as credible by those who are outraged by what is viewed as a genuine abuse of power. One is left to wonder how Holder will provide real answers to these ongoing concerns as they continue to be posed in the days ahead by outraged Democrats and Republicans.  There are increasing questions being raised on both sides of the aisle about Holder continuing as attorney general. The Attorney General declined to answer many questions and gave inadequate answers to others. He did not accomplish what was clearly necessary during his testimony. His lack of direct responses did not benefit Attorney General Holder or the Obama Administration.

• Speaking of credibility, the Obama Administration is under an increasing series of attacks over questions surrounding Benghazi, the I.R.S. and the A.P.  The worst nightmare for the Administration is to have these unrelenting attacks from the usual voices on the right, coupled with the serious questions coming from Democrats in the House and Senate. It is time for the Administration to respond quickly and effectively. Its failure to do so will create greater difficulties in terms of effective governance and the practical political problems which will grow as the mid-term elections approach.   

• Sequestration is back in the news.  It has been announced that the Pentagon will furlough 680,000 civilian employees for  11 days before the end of the fiscal year.  This is just another indication of the impact of sequestration.  The ripple effects will continue to be felt with increasing impact on all Americans in the days ahead.  One is left to wonder when the Congress and the Administration will tackle the tough questions surrounding the federal budget.

• The National Transportation Safety Board (N.T.S.B.) has recommended that the level to establish drunk driving be changed from .08 to .05.  This is an important move that could save many lives and I hope this is done quickly.

• Africa is one area of the world that does not get enough attention in the United States.  Africa is in crisis on many levels.  One area that should be of particular concern is the ongoing political and religious battle that is being waged by Muslims and Christians against each other.  In Nigeria, President Goodluck Jonathan has declared a State Of Emergency as radical Islamists take control of more towns and villages.  The rise of Islamic extremists should be of growing concern.  This issue extends to many areas of Africa and other parts of the world including Egypt, Iraq, Afghanistan and parts of Europe.  Few individuals are comfortable talking about this growing problem, but this is a clear and present growing concern.

• Violence is on the rise in Iraq. In addition to ongoing struggles between Sunnis and Shiites, Islamic extremists are now attacking liquor stores. The situation in Iraq continues to go from bad to worse, but tragically it is clear that there is little that the U.S. can do in this unraveling situation.

• In Afghanistan, 3 more U.S. soldiers are dead as a result of a road side bomb attack. We must never forget that 60,000 American men and women are still engaged in combat.  Tragically, there is little or no public discussion about what it is that we are doing in Afghanistan.

• It has been announced that the Palestinian Authority and Hamas are attempting, yet again, to put together what is being described as a national unity government.  Hamas, which rules Gaza, remains committed to the destruction of Israel. If a deal were to be put together, one wonders what would happen to the agreements that the P.A., which controls the West Bank, has signed with Israel.  On this, the 65^th anniversary of the birth of Israel, demonstrations are taking place throughout the West Bank and Gaza commemorating what is called al-Nakkba, or the Day of the Catastrophe.  Sadly, peace appears to be a far distant dream in the Middle East.

• Confidence in government is under attack.  On every level, federal, state and local, governments face a serious credibility gap. The problems facing the Obama Administration continue to mount. The issues surrounding the Bay Bridge continue to grow with no real answers to tough questions. The San Francisco Unified School District now faces the fact that 205 felony charges have been filed against six current and former employees for misusing $15 million of public funds. It is reported that $250,000 may have been used for personal use over a ten year period. Was no one paying any attention to what was going on in this corner of the S.F.U.S.D.?  P.G. & E. and the Public Utilities Commission face increasing questions about their conduct and performance. Concerns about political corruption and massive buying of political influence continue to grow.  This is not a new problem in our political system, but it is becoming a more pervasive concern.  Let us hope that our political leadership on all levels will be prepared to address these issues in a clear and decisive manner.

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Around the Political World with John Rothmann ~ May 14, 2013

·         Shades of Richard Nixon! I want to begin today with a reflection on the clear and present problems facing President Obama.  Three major damaging situations are in the headlines.  Benghazi, the misuse of the I.R.S. and the seizing of the records of the  Associated Press all dominate the news and talk shows.  Three expressions from history come to mind.  They are “credibility gap”, “stone walling” and “full disclosure.”  Listening to President Obama yesterday was all too reminiscent of presidents Johnson and Nixon at their lowest moments. 

On Benghazi, President Obama stated that critics, raising questions “dishonor the dead” and called it a “side show” that “defies logic”. That kind of response is not worthy of the President of the United States. There are genuine concerns and those concerns need to be answered.  Responding by attacking those who are raising legitimate questions is hardly a response worthy of this president.

While condemning the I.R.S. investigation, the President made it clear that he first became aware when he read about it in the paper, just like everyone else. If that is true, President Obama is negligent at best. Can you imagine what the response would have been if President Nixon had uttered those words?   

The Associated Press story is of great concern to all who value a free press. Gary Pruitt, the president and chief executive of the A. P. called the collection of materials a “massive and unprecedented intrusion”. He is absolutely correct. The White House says that they did not know and that this was a Department of Justice action.  The outrage from virtually every corner of the political spectrum is a clear indication that these “responses” are not creditable. Imagine if the Attorney General who gave the order had been John Mitchell!  All hell would have broken out and deservedly so. 

Given the problems that we face in the nation and the world, President Obama owes it to the country to provide better answers.  His credibility is at stake. I am reminded by the famous expression that Richard Nixon gave to David Frost when he said of his enemies, “I gave them the sword.”  President Obama’s enemies see their opportunity and they are seizing the moment.  President Obama needs to “make things perfectly clear” or we will be left with a president who has been severely damaged.

·         Angelina Jolie had a double mastectomy after discovering she carried the BRCA-1 gene, where she had an 87% chance of developing cancer.  Not since First Lady Betty Ford and Second Lady “Happy” Rockefeller had the same procedure done, has the nation focused on this with such care and concern.  Jolie has done a wonderful thing by going public.  Her partner of eight years, Brad Pitt, was at her side and has set an important example. 

·         In one of those amazing moments which inspire complete incredulity, Iran has been named to chair the United Nations Nuclear Disarmament Conference.  What in the world is the U.N. thinking?  No wonder the U.N. has lost so much of its credibility.

·         The effort to insure the future of same-sex marriage received a boost when Minnesota became the 12^th state to pass the necessary legislation.  The governor is set to sign the bill today.  In June we will hear from the Supreme Court as rulings on Proposition 8 and D.O.M.A. are due to be delivered.

·         The Federal Highway Administration is now involved in the Bay Bridge scandal.  Hearings are set to start in Sacramento today.  2300 steel rods and all of those bolts remain essential issues to be addressed.  Let’s hope that answers about responsibility and safety are answered sooner rather than later.

·         Governor Brown will release his revised budget plan for the State of California today.  Under Proposition 98 Brown is required to give the bulk of the presumed surplus money to the schools.  

·         The situation in Syria continues to implode.  The United States and Russia are trying to put together an international conference to try to resolve the situation. The odds of success are virtually none.  The U.S. is calling for the ouster of Assad and the rebels are controlled by radical Islamists.  The question of the use of chemical weapons by both the government and the rebels has raised even more questions about what should be done if anything can be done.  In short, this is an impossible situation with broad regional implications as things continue to go from bad to worse.

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Around the Political World with John Rothmann ~ May 13, 2013

• The ongoing saga of the Bay Bridge debacle continues to dominate the headlines.  The latest disclosure involves the fact that more than 400 steel rods located at the base of the new eastern span may be faulty.  It turns out that serious concerns are now being raised about their safety and ability to withstand an earthquake.  The question of how one can inspect the rods at the base of the structure remains open.  The serious problems facing this new $6.4 billion structure remains a growing scandal.  With the Memorial Day planned opening celebration rapidly approaching, let us hope that Caltrans decides to wait as long as it takes to put safety first.   The “grand opening” should be delayed until all safety questions are answered.

• The most disturbing national story is the now admitted misuse of the I.R.S. to investigate conservative groups. There needs to be a full investigation of this scandal. We need to know how high this scandal extends and we need to know quickly. Those responsible need to be held accountable for this abuse of power. It is important to remember that one of the grounds for the proposed impeachment of Richard Nixon was the abuse of the I.R.S. powers, including audits of political opponents.  The Obama Administration need to be “perfectly clear” about what happened, why it happened, and we must be certain that we know all of the facts.  This is an abuse of power that must disturb all Americans and must be stopped.

• The questions surrounding all of the circumstances involving Benghazi continue to be debated in a partisan fashion.  Republicans are on the attack and Democrats are on the defense. Hillary Clinton is the focus of this battle.  Opponents and supporters of her potential candidacy in 2016 are lining up on either side of this issue. To clear the air, Secretary Clinton should step forward to testify now and explain her role in what happened in Benghazi.  What is necessary is that the whole truth and nothing but the truth be told.

• Senator Rand Paul is almost certainly running for president.  He is reaching out to the evangelical wing of the Republican Party which is an essential part of the coalition needed to win the nomination. He is also using the gun issue to attract supporters.  He is now accusing the Obama Administration of teaming up with “anti-American globalists” to work against the Constitution.  The Republican Party needs responsible leadership in order to be in a potentially winning position in the presidential campaign of 2016.  The more Paul speaks, the less he seems to meet that necessary requirement for future leadership of the G.O.P.

• Pakistan has held elections.  The winner is former two-term Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif. His election raises many questions.  We do not know how he truly stands on the rise of radical Islam in Pakistan. We do not know his views on Afghanistan.  He has called for negotiations with the Taliban in Pakistan. On a positive note it appears that he seems to want to de-escalate the tensions with India.  The questions surrounding Pakistan’s nuclear weapons remain an issue of ongoing concern.  This election raises more questions than answers. What happens in Pakistan is critical to us on so many levels.

• Broadcast legend Barbara Walters has announced that she will retire from T.V. journalism next year. Her presence will be missed.

• In what may be the most important and far reaching story for our world, we are told that carbon dioxide levels in our atmosphere have reached a 3 million year high.  This will certainly have a far reaching effect on our planet and on our lives. There is no doubt that human produced emissions are the cause.  This issue needs to be addressed quickly and effectively by our leaders. Al Gore has been proven to be correct.  The earth as we know it truly is in the balance.

• The good news for California is that we may have a surplus due to the surge in state revenue.  The question is what will be done with the new found money?   May I be so bold as to suggest that we ought to be reducing our $28 billion state debt.  It would also be a good idea to be certain that we have a rainy-day fund to carry us through what will certainly be another financial crisis in the not to distant future.  The decisions will be made by our representatives in Sacramento.  Let’s hope they make the right choices.

• President Obama will hold a press conference this morning.  No doubt he will be asked questions about the I.R.S., Benghazi, and all of the other “hot” issues.  It should be a fascinating session with the press.

• Go Warriors!!

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