General Wes Clark Endorses Hal Spake
Citing “Strong Moral Values and Ethics Reform for Washington”
Clark says, “Oklahoma Needs a Leader Like Hal Spake”

October 31, 2006, Little Rock, AR--Former NATO Supreme Allied Commander, General Wesley Clark endorses the candidacy of Hal Spake for the U.S. Congress from the 4th Congressional District of Oklahoma.

“Hal Spake will bring a level of international understanding and expertise to Congress that is sorely needed in these critical days,” says General Clark, “With twenty-two years of service to our country in the US military and the US Diplomatic Corps with duty stations around the world, Spake will bring an understanding of cultures and diplomacy desperately needed in the critical missions and crises facing America in the near future.” General Clark notes that, “Hal Spake has represented the United States on immigration issues from the diplomatic viewpoint and understands legal immigration. He has a strong commitment to work to secure our borders and keep America safe.”

Spake’s long history of foreign policy expertise has led to his consideration of an exit strategy such that the U.S. needs to "announce to the world what we expect to happen and set goals for what needs to happen militarily." He described these goals as "tripwires" that, when tripped, will correspond with the withdrawal of certain numbers of U.S. troops until the American occupation is over.

Concerning the current situation with Iran and the Israeli-Lebanese conflict, Spake said, "Hezbollah is a proxy agent for the Iranians and Iran is just showing the Muslim world how weak the U.S. is. The President has so weakened us strategically that we're not sure what to do."

General Clark said, “A candidate of the strong moral values and invaluable expertise such as Hal Spake comes along once in a lifetime. Join me in working hard to send Hal Spake to Congress. He will bring the intelligence, experience and passion for the issues that face our country to bear that will serve our country well in the days we face ahead. In voting for Hal Spake, Oklahomans will have the rare opportunity to change the current corrupt politics-as-usual in Washington, DC.”

General Wesley K. Clark is a retired four-star general and served as the Supreme Allied Commander of Europe where he commanded NATO forces and directed Operation Allied Force in the Balkans, putting a stop to the ethnic cleansing by the Serbs. More recently, he was drafted in 2003 to seek the Democratic nomination for President. General Clark remains engaged in public policy and private business development. Authoring two books, Waging Modern Wars and Winning Modern Wars, he and his wife, Gert, still live in Little Rock. He can be reached through his website, www.securingamerica.com.

Doctor Says Jones Violated Rights; Calls for Republican to Pull Ad
McMahan Says Jones’ “lie-filled campaign” Hits New Political Low


Republican Gary Jones drug Oklahoma political campaigns to a new low this week by dramatically distorting Christmas-time video footage of his opponent in a desperate attempt to deceive voters and divert attention from his own stalled campaign and personal failures.

The doctor who owns the footage said he was “shocked and outraged” by the illegal use of his proprietary material.

“This is an improper use of material that belongs to me. I did not authorize its use. I did not sell the material to Mister Jones. I would never allow this type of material to be used in a political commercial like this,” Dr. Don White of Edmond said.

White is a clinical hypnotherapist who routinely does stage shows, events and parties where he hypnotizes guests and gets them to do or say something they would never normally do.

“This material was copied illegally from one of my shows. Gary Jones should know this recording should not have been made and he is, in my opinion, illegally and improperly using this material and I demand he stop immediately.”

White also demanded television stations stop airing the ad or face the potential consequences. An attorney representing White is contacting Jones’ campaign and television stations, demanding the ad be pulled down or face potential legal action.

White said that while he had McMahan under hypnosis at a holiday party he gave him an instruction that he could not count or use the number 6, thereby causing McMahan to appear to be unable to count. White said the skit is a standard show routine that is done “all in fun and is particularly funny when you have an accountant, banker or auditor on the stage.”

The holiday festival footage was taken prior to McMahan taking office four years ago.

“Gary Jones’ entire campaign when talking about Jeff McMahan is a lie. He lies to the press. He lies to Oklahoma voters,” Pat Hall of the McMahan campaign said.
“Gary Jones has taken advantage of Jeff McMahan’s good-natured participation in festivities, where everyone was enjoying the most important holiday of the year, and used it in a desperate smear campaign,” Hall said.

Hall said Jones has resorted to the smear campaign to cover up Jones taking campaign contributions from indicted scam artist who robbed taxpayers, and from the fact that he was audited and cited for improperly shuffling money in his brief tenure as a Comanche County Commissioner.

“Gary Jones was such a poor manager of taxpayer dollars that his actions may have forced the people of Comanche County to repay nearly $200,000 to a federal agency,” Hall said on behalf of the campaign.

Jones and his former business partner, according to court records, also battled it out in court after a special court-appointed accountant found Jones making questionable payments to himself from company funds. Jones paid his partner a cash settlement in the case.

“Gary Jones from all appearances cannot manage his own money. He looks like a failed businessman who has never conducted the types of audits done by the state agency he seeks to lead.

“If Jones is elected, he could turn the only state agency guarding the expenditure of our tax dollars into a cesspool of corruption and personal political vendettas,” Hall said.

GOP’s Tricks Leave Little Treats for American Voters

The Republican Party’s legacy under George Bush is more than just a little scary to working American families according to the Chairman of the Oklahoma Democratic Party.



“It's Halloween, and right on cue, President Bush is back to scaring the American people with the same tired, old attacks of 2004. But this time, the trick is on him. Americans want change, and a new direction,” Lisa Pryor said. “The list of tricks the GOP has played on the public is long and gives me the chills to know our Administration and Republican-controlled Congress think they can continue to run over our rights and liberties.”

Pryor said from the Iraq debacle, to the Jack Abramoff and Duke Cunningham lobbying scandals to the alleged cover-up of sexual predator Representative Mark Foley to wire-tapping the phones of Americans, the Republicans have proven to be out of touch with American voters. Pryor said Bush’s “War on Terror” has made America less safe at home and cost the lives of thousands of U.S. soldiers in Iraq because of the Republicans’ failed plans and policies.

“Democrats offer real solutions and honest leadership. Republicans have been inept at the issues they campaigned on like international safety and they have abandoned issues like job creation, affordable and accessible health care for all Americans, and equal educational opportunities. These are the issues that matter. These are the issues important to the American people,” Pryor said.

The Oklahoman Endorses Jim Roth

“County Commissioner: Four years ago, Jim Roth was largely unknown when he unseated Republican incumbent Beverly Hodges to gain the District 1 Commissioner's seat. Since that time, Roth has proven himself an outstanding public official interested in serving his constituents and bringing professionalism to county government. His fiscal responsibility is unmatched. We're also supportive of his efforts to bring ‘home rule’ to county government, which would put him out of a job. This Democrat's accomplishments in the past four years have earned him another term. Along with newly elected District 3 Commissioner Ray Vaughn, a Republican, we're hopeful the pair can restore much-needed order to the commission and make the days of county government as a laughingstock a mere memory.”

ODP Media Release: There’s Something About Mary; A Weak Spot for Corruption, Perhaps?

Mary Fallin, Republican candidate for Congress, proved today that she is part of what is wrong in Washington by inviting morally corrupt Speaker Dennis Hastert to headline a fundraiser for her in Oklahoma City, the chair of the Oklahoma Democratic Party said today.



“Dennis Hastert has overseen the most corrupt Congress in U.S. history. Already several Republican members of the U.S. House have pleaded guilty to some form of corruption, one is already in prison, and the majority leader has been forced to resign,” said Lisa Pryor, Oklahoma Democratic Party Chair. “I don’t know what Mary Fallin was thinking when she invited the leader of the morally bankrupt Republican House of Representatives to Oklahoma.”

Dr. David Hunter, Democratic candidate for Congress, held a press conference this morning that questioned Fallin’s judgment. “Mary is a career politician who has shown that she can’t be trusted to do the right thing. She’s proven time and again that she has poor judgment,” Hunter said.

“There has been a massive failure of leadership in Congress under Republican Speaker Dennis Hastert and Mary Fallin showed us today that she will not help take America in the new direction we are clamoring for, but will simply be a rubber stamp for staying the course in Iraq and more cover-ups and corruption,” Pryor said.

“Dr. Hunter has been a physician for 25 years. Everyday, his patients put their lives in his hands,” Pryor said. “Oklahomans in the 5th congressional district can trust Dr. Hunter to work for them and to follow his mantra to ‘first, do no harm,’ ” she said.

“On November 7, Democrats will regain the majority in Congress and Oklahoma will want Dr. Hunter to join Congressman Dan Boren in the majority so that together they will deliver for Oklahoma,” Pryor said.

“Voters have a stark choice to make on Election Day. They can send a career politician with a taste for scandal and corruption to represent them in Washington or they can vote for Dr. David Hunter, a man committed to improving the lives of working families by expanding education opportunities, creating jobs and making health care more accessible and affordable,” Pryor said.

THUS SPAKE HAL

For pithy insight into the differences between 4th District Congressional Democratic nominee Hal Spake and the Republican check out Spake's new political cartoon series at http://www.halspake.com/thusspakehal.html.

Barton Forum in Stillwater

Democratic nominee for the 3rd Congressional District Sue Barton and Rep. Frank Lucas will participate in a candidate forum sponsored by the Stillwater League of Women Voters on Thursday, November 2, at 7:15 p.m. in the Stillwater Commission Room of City Hall.

The forum will be moderated and questions relating to the issues will be accepted on index cards from the audience before the candidates speak. Duplicate questions will be combined, and each candidate will receive the same questions.

Please come out and support Sue! Get there early for a good seat. There will be a district attorney candidate forum from 6:00 - 7:00 just prior to the congressional candidate forum at 7:15.

The forum will be broadcast live on Stillwater's city channel 23 and will be re-aired at 2:00 p.m. on Sunday.

Hunter Press Conference

Dr. David Hunter, CD5 Democratic nominee, will have a press conference at 10 a.m. Monday immediately following his opponent's breakfast fundraiser with Speaker of the House Dennis Hastert. The press conference will be at ODP headquarters in the Krumme Center, 4100 North Lincoln Blvd. in Oklahoma City.

Many Republicans have distanced themselves from Hastert since the Foley sex scandal unfolded in DC a couple of weeks ago. Some have even cancelled fundraising events with Hastert due to his alleged cover up of the matter. Fallin, however, has moved ahead with her event embracing Hastert and the GOP leadership she hopes to join.

Meanwhile, Hunter is gaining momentum in the 5th District as voters become acquainted with his platform delivered in the soft spoken manner of a surgeon who is keen on listening to his patients before offering solutions to their life and death conditions.

Read more about Dr. Hunter here.

Haskell County Democrats in Action

Haskell County Democrats held a successful fundraiser Saturday night at Stigler, with almost 100 people in attendance at the Kiamichi Career Tech center. Sen. Richard Lerblance (above) described the lack of leadership from the Republican House over the past two years, and encouraged a high voter turnout November 7. Haskell County gave Brad Henry 60% of their vote four years ago, and this year's support should be even stronger.

I had the pleasure of meeting Doyle Hamm of Keota, a World War II veteran who spent 208 days as a prisoner of war after being shot and left for dead. He's a solid Democrat who will turn 82 the day after the election. Let's give him a great birthday present with a Democratic sweep! He and all our veterans deserve our thanks and support.

County officers Kim Risenhoover, Glen Kates and Sally Barnett and a host of good volunteers put on a great event. Gale and Pat Maxwell (right) are two of the great Democrats who make things happen in Stigler. Keep up the good work, folks!

Best,
Walt

To Be a Liberal

"If you mean by liberal someone who looks ahead and not behind, someone who welcomes new ideas without rigid reactions, someone who cares about the welfare of people -- their health, their housing, their schools, their jobs, their civil rights, their civil liberties. If that is what they mean by liberal then I am proud to be a liberal."

-- John F. Kennedy

Consequences of Majority

If Oklahomans want to have any say in the next Congress in Washington they will elect Democrats in November. Every indicator points to a Democratic Majority in the U.S. House of Representatives and a majority in the U.S. Senate is possible. Majority matters. It matters because the majority party controls the legislative agenda and assigns the chairmen of powerful committees. If Oklahoma sends Republicans to Washington then our position will diminish significantly with their minority status.

Representatives Tom Cole, Frank Lucas, and John Sullivan will be yesterday's news as will their Republican cronies in D.C. Only Congressman Dan Boren, CD2, will be in the majority unless Oklahomans rise up and recognize they have an opportunity to improve our state's position by electing Democrats in the other four Congressional districts.

A Tulsa World story by Jim Myers today says "Oklahomans could wake up the day after the upcoming elections facing dramatically less clout in their nation's capitol.

If Republicans lose control of the U.S. House of Representatives as expected by more than a few, the state will suffer its biggest loss in congressional power and influence in more than half a century.

As many as four members of the state's House delegation could end up in the minority, leaving only one Oklahoman in the majority party that will be controlling that chamber's agenda.

Wiped out would be a current subcommittee chairmanship, the chances of gaining others and opportunities to even get a hearing on legislation the majority of the delegation wanted to sponsor. " To read the whole story click here.

Clearly, Oklahoma has an opportunity here to elevate our position in Washington. Clearly, Oklahoma voters MUST elect DEMOCRATS on November 7th.

This IS about Majority and it IS about our PARTY. Elect Democrats Alan Gentges, CD1; re-elect Dan Boren, CD2; elect Sue Barton, CD3; elect Hal Spake, CD4, and elect Dr. David Hunter, CD5.

This is Baghdad. What could be worse?

Today's Washington Post features a piece on the editorial page by Pullitzer Prize winning journalist Anthony Shadid, an Oklahoma native. The piece is long but every word is worth reading as he describes the reality of Iraq's capital today. For Shadid and his subjects this is not Democrat versus Republican, not Shiite versus Sunni. It is much bigger than that, it's such a cataclysmic mess that "only God can fix it." Read it below.



By Anthony Shadid
Sunday, October 29, 2006; B01

BAGHDAD

There was an almost forgettable exchange earlier this month in the Iraqi National Assembly, itself on the fringe of relevance in today's disintegrating Iraq. Lawmakers debated whether legislation should be submitted to a committee to determine if it was compatible with Islam. Ideas were put forth, as well as criticism. Why not a committee to determine whether legislation endorses democratic principles? one asked. In stepped Mahmoud Mashadani, the assembly's speaker, to settle the dispute.

"Any law or decision that goes against Islam, we'll put it under the kundara!" he thundered.

"God is greatest!" lawmakers shouted back, in a rare moment of agreement between Sunni and Shiite Muslims.

Kundara means shoe, and the bit of bluster by Mashadani said a lot about Baghdad today.

It had been almost a year since I was in the Iraqi capital, where I worked as a reporter in the days of Saddam Hussein, the U.S.-led invasion in 2003, and the occupation, guerrilla war and religious resurgence that followed. On my return, it was difficult to grasp how atomized and violent the 1,250-year-old city has become. Even on the worst days, I had always found Baghdad's most redeeming quality to be its resilience, a tenacious refusal among people I met over three years to surrender to the chaos unleashed when the Americans arrived. That resilience is gone, overwhelmed by civil war, anarchy or whatever term could possibly fit. Baghdad now is convulsed by hatred, paralyzed by suspicion; fear has forced many to leave. Carnage its rhythm and despair its mantra, the capital, it seems, no longer embraces life.

"A city of ghosts," a friend told me, her tone almost funereal.

The commotion in the streets -- goods spilling across sidewalks, traffic snarled under a searing sun -- once prompted the uninitiated to conclude that Baghdad was reviving. Of course, they were seeing the city through a windshield, the often angry voices on the streets inaudible. Today, with traffic dwindling, stores shuttered and streets empty by nightfall, that conceit no longer holds.

Even the propaganda, once ubiquitous and often incongruous, is gone. One piece I recalled from two years ago: a map of Iraq divided into three colored bands. In white, it read, "Progress." In red, "Iraq." In white again, "Prosperity." The promises are now more modest: "However strong the wind," reads a new poster of a woman clutching her child, "it will pass." More indicative of the mood, perhaps, was one of the old banners still hanging. Faded and draped over a building scarred with craters from the invasion, it was an ad for the U.S.-funded Iraqi network, al-Iraqiya. In Arabic, its slogan reads, "Prepare your eyes for more."

As I spoke to friends, some for the first time in more than a year, that was their fear: more of the kundara.

"When anyone is against you, when anyone has differences with me, I will put a kundara in his mouth, I will shove a kundara down his throat, I will hit him with a kundara, and so on," another friend told me.

"We live in a kundara culture today."

I had first met Karima Salman during the U.S. invasion. She was a stout Shiite Muslim matriarch with eight children, living in a three-room apartment in the working-class district of Karrada. Trash was piled at her entrance, a dented, rusted steel gate perched along a sagging brick sidewalk. When I visited last year, the street, still one of the safer ones in Baghdad, exuded a veneer of normalcy. Makeshift markets overflowed with goods piled on rickety stands: socks imported from China, T-shirts from Syria and stacks of shoes, sunglasses and lingerie. Down the street were toys: plastic guns, a Barbie knockoff in a black veil, and a pirate carrying an AK-47 and a grenade. There was a "Super Mega Heavy Metal Fighter" action figure and a doll that, when squeezed, played "It's a Small World."

On this day, the metal stands were empty, as were the streets.

"Praise God," Karima said as I asked how she was. In a moment, her smile faded as she realized the absurdity of her words. "Of course, it's not good," she said, shaking her head. "There's nothing that's ever happened like what's happening in Iraq."

On June 23, 2005, three car bombs detonated in Karrada, outside her home, wrecking the Abdul-Rasul Ali mosque and spraying shrapnel that sliced into the forearm of one of her five daughters, Hiba. Friends at school nicknamed her "Shrapnel Hiba." Two months ago, yet another bomb hurled glass through their window, cutting the head of Hiba's twin sister, Duaa. Four stitches sealed the wound. Over that time, Karima lost her job as a maid at the Palm Hotel, where she had earned about $33 a month.

"People are too scared to come," she said matter of factly.

Next to her sat her son Mohammed. During the invasion, Mohammed, an ex-convict, had joined a motley unit of a dozen men patrolling Baghdad's streets as part of the Baath Party militia. Now he had entered the ranks of the Mahdi Army, a Shiite militia loyal to a young cleric, Moqtada al-Sadr, and blamed for many of today's sectarian killings in Baghdad. Karima's son-in-law Ali had been an officer in the American-equipped police force, earning $300 a month. He quit after receiving a death threat. Now he, too, had joined the Mahdi Army.

"Not all of them are good," Karima told me, casting a glance at her son.

Stocky and a little surly, Mohammed smiled. "Who else is going to protect Iraq?" he asked.

They debated the causes of the violence that, these days, is the topic of almost every conversation. Radical Sunnis, the Americans, Iranian agents, other militias. "Even the Egyptians," Karima offered. "And the Sudanese," Mohammed added.

"Brothers are killing their brothers," she said.

Stories poured forth: a bomb amputating the arm of a 10-year-old neighbor; another killing Marwan, the barber.

"If they brought the Israelis, the Jews, and they ruled Iraq, it would be better," said Karima, her face framed by a black veil. Sunlight bathed the room; electricity, as usual, was cut off. "It would be a million times better than a Sunni, a million times better than a Shiite."

Her first grandchild, 2-month-old Fahd, sat next to her. His expression was rare in Baghdad: eyes expectant, fearless.

"Is it not a pity to bring a baby in a world like this?" she asked. "It's a shame."

Her eldest daughter, Fatima, looked on.

"One-third of us are dying, one-third of us are fleeing and one-third of us will be widows," she said.

"This is Iraq," Karima added.

The last time I had visited Faruq Saad Eddin, he and his wife, Muna, had argued over whether their eldest son should have left the country. We sat in Jihad, a neighborhood so dangerous now that a stranger risks death by entering it. A generator droned in the background; occasional bomb blasts thundered in the distance, probably homemade mines targeting U.S. patrols. An urbane former diplomat, Faruq had been upset. He worried about what would become of his ancient land if its capable fled.

"You can't just cut out and run away," he told me. "This is our country and sooner or later our children will come back. The resilience of the people, that's what 11,000 years means," he said. "Someone who has 11,000 years, 100 years to lose here or there is not that much."

On April 17, Faruq and Muna left Iraq at the insistence of their son, who had paid a year's rent for an apartment in Jordan. A month later, a car bomb detonated outside their Baghdad home, shattering the windows in the room where we once had shared bitter coffee.

On a cool morning in the Amman neighborhood of Umm al-Summaq, Faruq shook his head at the arbitrariness of fate.

"We would have been killed, no doubt about it," he said.

"We are all stranded, here and there, Iraqis," he added.

A friend once compared the elderly who are reluctant to leave Baghdad to the blind. Take them away from the familiarity of their home, garden and street, and they become lost and disoriented. Faruq has sought new routines: morning strolls, e-mails to friends, a voracious appetite for news and late-night updates on his favorite baseball team, the St. Louis Cardinals. His apartment overlooked the rolling hills of Amman, glowing in the morning's soft sun; his granddaughter Mayasa played giddily next to him with a stuffed toy.

"I should feel happy," he said.

He shook his head again, a gesture that meant he wasn't.

"We have a heavy heart, really," he said after a few moments of silence. "Just knowing what's happening makes us grieve."

I had come to know Wamidh Nadhme in 2002, before the invasion. A professor of political science at Baghdad University, he was a forthright voice in those tense, uneasy days when Hussein was still in power. He tried to speak with complete honesty despite the possible consequences of doing so in a police state. With an ever-present Dunhill cigarette, he would slowly field questions back then, reasoning out every intricate response, surrounded by his French-style furniture, worn Persian carpets and a framed piece of papyrus from Egypt, where he had spent time in exile as a young activist. But on this visit, reason eluded him, as did explanation.

"I find myself unable to understand what's going on," he said.

Wamidh had settled into what he called "withdrawal." He still visited the university once a week, but Baghdad was simply too dangerous to venture outside. After nightfall, the streets of his neighborhood of Adhamiya look like they might an hour or so before dawn: dark, without traffic, and menacing. As we talked, helicopters rumbled overhead. Gunfire burst almost continuously.

"You feel like the country is exploding," he said.

We traded stories. One I had heard from a friend: Insurgents stopped a driver at a checkpoint. They opened his trunk. "Why do you have a spare tire?" the insurgent asked solemnly. "You don't have trust in God?"

Well into 2005, Wamidh has bristled at the notion of a sectarian divide, even as the very geography of Baghdad began to transform into Shiite and Sunni halves divided by the Tigris River. Like many Iraqis, he blamed the Americans for naively viewing the country solely through that sectarian prism before the war, then forging policies that helped make it that way afterward. He ran through other "awful mistakes": the carnage unleashed by Sunni insurgents affiliated with al-Qaeda, the assassination of a Shiite ayatollah in 2003 who may have bridged differences, the devolution of Sadr's movement today into armed, revenge-minded mobs.

As Wamidh finished, he flashed his customary modesty. "Perhaps you could correct me?" he offered.

I asked him whether it would become worse if the American military withdrew.

He looked at me for a moment without saying anything, as though he were a little confused.

"What could be worse?" he asked, knitting his brow.

I saw Wamidh again a week later, and the question had lingered with him. "I sometimes wonder what I would do if I were the Americans," he said over a traditional Ramadan dinner. His answer seemed to hurt him. "I have no idea, really."

"It's like a volcano that has erupted. How do you stop that?"

On April 9, 2003, Firdaus Square became the lasting image of the U.S. entry into Baghdad. In its center was a metal statue of Hussein in a suit, his arm outstretched in socialist realist fashion. Like an arena of spectators, columns of descending height encircled him, each bearing the initials "S.H." on their cupolas. By early afternoon that day, hundreds of Iraqis swarmed around the statue with one task in mind: bring it down. It marked the fall. A year later, amid uprisings by Sunni insurgents in Fallujah and Sadr's militia in Baghdad and the south, it spoke of occupation. The square was deserted, guarded by U.S. tanks whose barrels read, "Beastly Boy" and "Bloodlust." Soldiers, edgy, had orders to shoot anyone with a weapon. At times, music blared over speakers on a Humvee.

One song: "Ring of Fire," by Johnny Cash.

As I stood in Firdaus Square this day, after invasion, liberation and occupation, I wondered what word described Baghdad.

"This is a civil war now," Harith Abdel-Hamid, a psychiatrist, had told me, trying to diagnose the madness. "When you see hundreds of people killed every day, corpses of people tortured in the streets every day, what else does it mean?"

"Call it what you will," he said, "but it is a civil war."

Perhaps. But I felt as though I was witnessing something more: the final, frenzied maturity of once-inchoate forces unleashed more than three years ago by the invasion. There was civil war-style sectarian killing, its echoes in Lebanon a generation ago. Alongside it were gangland turf battles over money, power and survival; a raft of political parties and their militias fighting a zero-sum game; a raging insurgency; the collapse of authority; social services a chimera; and no way forward for an Iraqi government ordered to act by Americans who themselves are still seen as the final arbiter and, as a result, still depriving that government of legitimacy.

Civil war was perhaps too easy a term, a little too tidy.

I looked out on the square. On one side were rows of concrete barricades and barbed wire, having faded almost organically into the landscape. In another direction, a billboard read: "Terrorism has no religion." Across the street, a poster portraying Iraqi police pleaded: "We are the heroes fighting for the sake of Baghdad." In the middle of the square, on the stone perch where Hussein's statue once stood, were torn scraps of other posters: "Your voice," "the nation," "patriotism," "dialogue," "building the future." The words were isolated, without context, like fragments of a clay tablet.

Sirens soon pierced the square. Two armed police escorts, headed in opposite directions, rushed along the street. Each frantically waved at the other to pull over. Guns dangling from the window, they fired volleys into the air to intimidate each other.

In time, the one with fewer rifles and fewer men let the other pass. They were playing by the rules of the kundara.

In the square, Salam Ahmed sat with a friend, Saad Nasser, under the statue, looking out at the scene.

"They died under Saddam, and they're dying now," Salam said.

Unshaven, wearing a baseball cap, Saad looked at the ground. He was grim, angry and dejected.

"No one can stop it but God," he said. "Only God has the power."

shadida@washpost.com

Anthony Shadid, a Washington Post foreign correspondent, won the 2004 Pulitzer Prize for coverage of the U.S. invasion of Iraq. He is the author of "Night Draws Near: Iraq's People in the Shadow of America's War" (Picador).

The General and The Doctor


With the war in Iraq spinning wildly out of control, Americans are looking to Democrats to fix the mess. Military leaders understand this best and that's why General Wesley Clark has endorsed Democrat David Hunter for Congress in Oklahoma's 5th District.

The war in Iraq continues to be the number one election issue this year. American deaths are nearing 3,000 with 99 this month. "Stay the course" is not a strategy for success. And "stay the course" is clearly not working. Yet, the "stay the course" rubber stamp Congress remains in a state of denial. Our soldiers, their families, and America deserve better, not more of the same.

General Wesley Clark knows that a strong Democratic majority in the US House of Representatives will lead America in a new direction with a strategy for success in Iraq. That majority must include Democrat David Hunter, he said.

“Dr. Hunter understands that our government is going in some wrong directions while ignoring the needs of its people for better jobs, access to quality health care, and better schools for our children so that they can succeed in the 21st century. He understands people’s concerns about the war in Iraq and supports a responsible and definable plan to transfer responsibility to the Iraqis and to bring our troops home. He sees that the government’s spending is out of control and knows what it will already cost all of us, our children, and our grandchildren. It is now Washington that needs healing, which is why David has chosen to run for Congress.”

Mary Fallin represents more of the same. She is a career politician who will be another rubber stamp for her party in Washington. We believe voters must trust our military leaders in these very serious matters. General Clark says we should trust Dr. David Hunter to get the right things done in Washington.

Vote Hunter for Congress on November 7th.

"Abuse of the Public Trust"

It's something we've come to expect from the GOP in Washington, abuse of the public trust, but this behavior knows no borders.

When you are a public servant, and drawing a government pay check, you gotta know that every phone conversation, every piece of correspondence, and now every email could be subject to scrutiny. Throughout history some have claimed executive privilege but the truth always comes out. Surely some of you remember Watergate and the missing tapes and the great investigative journalism that changed the way Washington worked, for a while. And who could forget the image of Nixon leaving the White House.

A man associated with Jack Abramoff was sentenced yesterday to 18 months in prison for his "abuse of the public trust." The evidence used against him was largely in a stack of emails. In addition to the emails he was found to be lying to a government ethics officer about his dealings with the now disgraced GOP fundraiser. Read the story from today's Washington Post here.

Ballot Issues

We've had several calls this week about the four State Questions that will appear on the November ballot. Sadly, the RAISE Oklahoma campaign to put an increase in the minimum wage did not make it to the ballot this year. But it did in eight other states. Read about it here. Thankfully the TABOR issue didn't make it either. The State Questions for November 7th, 2006 as outlined on the Oklahoma State Election Board website are as follows:

STATE QUESTION NO. 724 LEGISLATIVE REFERENDUM NO. 339
This measure amends Article V, Section 21 of the State Constitution. That Section deals with State pay to legislators. The amendment restricts State pay to some legislators. The pay restriction would apply to some legislators while in jail or prison. The pay restriction would apply to legislators found guilty of a crime. It would also apply to legislators who plead either guilty or no contest. Affected legislators must return any State pay received for time while in jail or prison.

SHALL THE PROPOSAL BE APPROVED?
FOR THE PROPOSAL — YES
AGAINST THE PROPOSAL — NO

STATE QUESTION NO. 725 LEGISLATIVE REFERENDUM NO. 340 This measure amends the State Constitution. It amends Section 23 of Article 10. The measure deals with the Constitutional Reserve Fund also known as the Rainy Day Fund. The measure allows money to be spent from the Rainy Day Fund. The purpose of the authorized spending is to retain employment for state residents by helping at-risk manufacturers. Payments from the Fund would be used to encourage such manufacturers to make investments in Oklahoma. All such payments from the Fund must be unanimously approved by three State officers. Those officers are the Governor and the head of the Senate and House of Representatives. Those officers could only approve payments recommended by an independent committee. Such spending is allowed in years when there is Eighty Million Dollars or more in the Fund and other conditions are met. Such spending is limited to Ten Million Dollars a year. The help given to a manufacturer is limited to ten percent of its in-State capital investments. The Legislature could make laws to carry out the amendment.

SHALL THE PROPOSAL BE APPROVED?
FOR THE PROPOSAL — YES
AGAINST THE PROPOSAL — NO

STATE QUESTION NO. 733 LEGISLATIVE REFERENDUM NO. 341 This measure amends the Oklahoma Constitution. It amends Article 28. This Article deals with sales of alcoholic beverages. Section 6 of Article 28 bans the sale of alcoholic beverages by package stores on certain days. Package store sales of these beverages are prohibited on election days while the polls are open. This measure would remove the ban on sales on election days. If this measure passes, package stores could sell alcoholic beverages on election days.

SHALL THE PROPOSAL BE APPROVED?
FOR THE PROPOSAL — YES
AGAINST THE PROPOSAL — NO

STATE QUESTION NO. 734 LEGISLATIVE REFERENDUM NO. 342 This measure amends the Oklahoma Constitution. It amends Section 6A of Article 10. This section provides an exemption from property tax. The exemption applies to goods that are shipped into the state, but which do not remain in the state for more than ninety days. This is sometimes known as the freeport exemption. This measure would allow laws to be enacted. The laws could provide for an application process to claim this exemption. The laws could require the application to be filed by a certain date. The laws could require certain information to be included with the application. The application would be filed with the county assessor.

SHALL THE PROPOSAL BE APPROVED?
FOR THE PROPOSAL — YES
AGAINST THE PROPOSAL — NO

Cardinals Over Tigers

The St. Louis Cardinals won the World Series last night!

General Wes Clark Endorses Dr. David Hunter
Citing “Common Sense Solutions for Oklahoma”

*Immediate Release* Contact: Erick Mullen
(202) 409-8803 or emullen@securingamerica.com

October 27m 2006. Little Rock, AR. Former NATO Supreme Allied Commander, General Wesley Clark today endorsed the candidacy of Dr. David Hunter for Congress in Oklahoma’s 5th Congressional District.

“Dr. Hunter knows the needs of the people of Oklahoma because his roots are deep. His grandparents came to Oklahoma in a covered wagon in the early 1900s and raised their 8 children here. David grew up in a working class family and played football in high school where his performance on the field earned him an athletic scholarship to the University of Kentucky. David chose medicine as his career and has been serving the people of Oklahoma for 25 years, most recently as Chief of Staff and Surgery at St. Anthony Hospital in Oklahoma City.”

“Dr. Hunter understands that our government is going in some wrong directions while ignoring the needs of its people for better jobs, access to quality health care, and better schools for our children so that they can succeed in the 21st century. He understands people’s concerns about the war in Iraq and supports a responsible and definable plan to transfer responsibility to the Iraqis and to bring our troops home. He sees that the government’s spending is out of control and knows what it will already cost all of us, our children, and our grandchildren. It is now Washington that needs healing, which is why David has chosen to run for Congress.”

“In voting for Dr. Hunter, the people of Oklahoma have an opportunity to turn things around now before it’s too late. To change politics-as-usual, we have to vote for someone besides the usual politicians,” said General Clark.

General Wesley K. Clark is a retired four-star general and served as the Supreme Allied Commander of Europe where he commanded NATO forces and directed Operation Allied Force in the Balkans, putting a stop to the ethnic cleansing by the Serbs. More recently, he was drafted in 2003 to seek the Democratic nomination for President. General Clark remains engaged in public policy and private business development. Authoring two books, Waging Modern Wars and Winning Modern Wars, he and his wife, Gert, still live in Little Rock. He can be reached through his website, www.securingamerica.com.

###

Senator Connie Johnson Media Release:
Governor Henry Signs African-American Centennial Plaza Bill At Ceremonial Event

OKLAHOMA CITY– Gov. Brad Henry signed into law Thursday Senate Bill 1919 which authorizes creation of the African-American Centennial Plaza on the grounds of the State Capitol as part of Oklahoma’s Centennial Celebration in 2007.

The governor was joined at the ceremonial signing by State Senator Constance N. Johnson, D-Oklahoma City, and Rep. Jabar Shumate, D-Tulsa, who co-authored the legislation.

“This is an historic day for Oklahoma and African-Americans and it’s long overdue,” Johnson said. “Rep. Shumate and I faced many hurdles in getting this legislation passed, but we were determined to see it through.”

Gov. Henry added at the ceremony, “I think the African-American Centennial Plaza is an extremely important project for Oklahoma. It highlights a wonderful heritage and culture. I pledge to work as hard as I can to make this a reality.”

Although SB1919 provided authorization for the creation of the plaza, it didn’t provide funding for it.

Rep. Shumate said he and Johnson will work to secure state funding in the next legislative session for the plaza.

He added that a private fundraising campaign has been underway for some time, and is spearheaded by Clara Luper, a well-known Oklahoma civil rights leader, and Thelma Parks, an Oklahoma City school board member, who also attended the bill signing.

Johnson said fundraising should increase once the design committee makes its final recommendation.

“People want to have a visual picture of what they are donating to,” Johnson said. “Once a final design is selected, I believe we will start seeing more donations come in for this very worthy project.”

Shumate said it would take both legislative and community efforts to complete funding for the plaza.

“Legislation and funding for projects like this one don’t happen in a nice, clean package,” Shumate said. “It’s going to take both public and private efforts. Today, we saw what it’s going to take to see this Centennial Plaza become a reality.

“We brought so many of the groups together today that championed this idea,” Shumate continued. “Senator Johnson and I are going to work hard to see that the Legislature does its part and we are going to have to have community support. Together we can do it.”

The project’s design is being overseen by the African-American Centennial Design Committee which will provide advice to the Oklahoma Department of Central Services in the design, construction, and funding sources of the project.

The committee is chaired by Johnson and includes members appointed by the Speaker of the House of Representatives, the Governor, Lieutenant Governor, Oklahoma Historical Society, Department of Central Services and the Oklahoma Arts Council.

Bruce Fisher of the Oklahoma Historical Society and a design committee member, said the committee will meet Nov. 15 at the State Capitol to hear from the two project design finalists. The finalists were selected from a design competition that was sponsored by an earlier steering committee.

A winning and an alternate design will ultimately be chosen and forwarded on to the executive director of Department of Central Services.

“Oklahoma is going to be on the cutting edge,” Fisher said. “We are going to be only the second state in the United States to have this type of representation of African-Americans on the capitol grounds. It is something that we are going to be absolutely proud of. It will be something that other states will emulate. We wouldn’t be where we are today without the efforts of Senator Johnson, Rep. Shumate and the entire community.”

Themes for the plaza may include Oklahoma’s African American military history such as black Civil War soldiers in Indian Territory; the founding and development of historically black towns like Boley and Langston, which houses Langston University; Tulsa’s Black Wall Street, and Deep Deuce in Oklahoma City, which was the home of some of the most prominent African-American jazz musicians in the country.

“Oklahoma will take the lead among state capitol facilities as far as recognizing the thousands of contributions of the African-American community,” said Currie

Ballard, former historian-in-residence at Langston University, and design committee vice-chair. “I’m very proud of this state for stepping up and looking forward. This is something that will stand the test of time.”

Johnson said she looks forward to seeing the African-American Centennial Plaza completed.

“As Oklahoma celebrates its first 100 years, it will be fitting to have the African-American Centennial Plaza on the grounds of the state capitol as a lasting memorial and tribute to Oklahoma’s rich African-American history,” Johnson said.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Senator Constance Johnson
State Capitol: (405) 521-5531
Email: johnsonco@oksenate.gov

Indian Country Today Editorial

This op-ed was written by Oklahoma native Suzan Shown Harjo, Cheyenne and Hodulgee Muscogee. She is now is president of the Morning Star Institute in Washington, D.C., She says the GOP is self-destructing at an amazing rate and that "Republicans in Washington seem to be a bit overwhelmed by the sheer number of their colleagues who are copping pleas and telling on each other.

Read the whole story.

ODP Media Release: Anthony’s Above the Law Antics Questioned

In a sworn affidavit, a former employee of the Oklahoma Corporation Commission told Tom Daxon that Commissioner Bob Anthony asked to be removed from agency internet tracking because he was an elected official and not a state employee. The incident occurred when Daxon, currently the Republican State Party Chairman, was the Commission’s Acting General Administrator and conducting a computer audit for pornography.



“One would think that if you receive a monthly paycheck from the State of Oklahoma that you would be considered a state employee,” Oklahoma Democratic Party Chairman Lisa Pryor said. “This issue is about transparency and accountability in state government. If Bob Anthony draws a monthly paycheck from the state then he is a state employee and he is certainly not exempt from administrative and operational checks and balances within his own office.”

Graves offers real leadership to a Commission that he knows well, as he previously served as Chairman of the Commission.

“Bob Anthony has lost his way at the Oklahoma Corporation Commission. If Anthony wants to hide his Internet activity, what else is he willing to hide from Oklahomans? Enough is enough. It is time for honest leadership and time for change at the Commission,” Pryor said. “Once an idealistic reformer, Anthony stands in the way of transparent and accountable government at the Corporation. Cody Graves won’t play games with the public like Bob Anthony.”

Some interesting thoughts on Rush Limbaugh.
Why, he must be suffering from
CHRONIC FOOT-IN-MOUTH DISEASE!

Once again conservative radio talk show host, Rush Limbaugh, has stuck his foot in his mouth. His recent attack against Michael J. Fox is only one of many character assassinations directed against anyone opposed to his extremist right-wing political philosophy.

How dare he even suggest that Fox was over-exaggerating the effects of his Parkinson's Disease affliction. Has Limbaugh no shame?

Limbaugh should be exposed as the hypocrite he is. Here's a man who's come down hard on drug users and addicts, only for us to discover that he's one himself! Here's a man who has falsely discredited the military combat records of John McCain, John Kerry, and John Murtha, but has never served in the military himself. Here's a man who conveniently tries to overlook the fact that Donald Rumsfeld, Dick Cheney, Karl Rove and President Bush (the War President) never served in combat.

Mr. Limbaugh has no credibility. When are his gullible admirers going to discover that the Emperor is wearing no clothes?

Paul G. Jaehnert of Vadnais Hts., MN

The next 20 people to come into our headquarters at 41st and Lincoln in Oklahoma City will get a free (much-sought after) bumpersticker:

ENOUGH IS ENOUGH.
Vote Democratic.

Pick up some yard signs while you're here, and show your Democratic support for the next 11 days.

Ken Luttrell, Candidate for HD-37, Is Making Democrats Proud

A note from Kay County Democratic Party Chair Bret Carter...

This morning was the Ponca City Chamber of Commerce forum for state house seat 37 candidates. Our guy -- Ken Luttrell -- did a fantastic job! He was well armed with facts and data, and spoke wonderfully without showing the signs of arrogance that his opponent displayed. He even was able to shoot down what his opponent was going to say in response to several questions before his opponent even had a chance to talk! And Ken did this while still showing that he will be a fighter for the people of Ponca City and there rest of his district instead of a puppet of a few that his opponent would be.

In addition, his opponent really bombed on a couple of high-priority questions - regarding health care insurance and the minimum wage. The fact that he is out of touch with the working middle class and the retired was painfully clear to me, and you could feel the negative reaction in the audience to both his answers, even packed as it was with people I recognized as ardent Republicans.

Clearly, Ken Luttrell will do a great job for us in Oklahoma City. When you talk to your friends, family, and neighbors about the upcoming election, be sure to speak highly of Ken Luttrell - just as I know you will do for the other Democratic candidates on the ticket in Kay County.

As usual, one of the best comments I heard came from an audience member who said "Why shouldn't we vote for Stan? He was good enough for four different women to marry!" Hum....

Ken, you are doing a great job!

I also heard that the forum in Kaw City last night where our candidates Ken, State Senate candidate Joe Sweeden, County Treasurer candidate Christy Kennedy, and county commissioner candidate Robert Howard spoke went fantastic for our candidates. There was a great turnout to hear the message of all these competent, caring, and qualified candidates. Good job all!

It is so clear to me as I hope it is to you that DEMOCRATS this year, as always, have a great slate of candidates who care deeply about doing what is right for ALL Oklahomans. Please spread the word! These guys will do a great job FOR us in Newkirk and in Oklahoma City, instead of doing bad things TO us!

--Bret Carter, chairman, Kay County Democratic Party

Rock The House Phone Party at Governor David Walters

Please join us for the Rock The House Phone party at Governor David Walters office on Sunday, November 5. Bring your cell phones and chargers, and we'll be calling people to get out the vote. There will be plenty of land lines if you don't have a cell phone. This is very important to winning back the House.

The event details are:
Rock The House Phone Party
6312 N. Villa (Walters Power International)
Oklahoma City, OK 73112

Sunday, 5 Nov 2006, 5:00 PM

To sign up for this event, click here.

For more information, contact Darla Shelden 840-0244

TAKE SIX in '06

TAKE SIX is an innovative program designed by the Women's Vote Center to reach the 20 million unmarried women who did not vote in 2004 -- the biggest potential group of new voters in the country, and the most likely to vote for Democrats -- but only if they vote.

Come by our office to pledge to TAKE SIX unmarried women to the polls and pick up a "Ask me about TAKE SIX" button. Or you can sign up here.

Getting this group of voters to the polls will be critical to victory in 2006 -- and by committing to TAKE SIX unmarried women to the polls, you can make sure women are the margin of victory in this election.

We know that women trust what they hear from other women. That is what the TAKE SIX campaign is all about; women talking to other women about the issues that matter to them, like health care and economic security, and making clear that they can do something to bring change to our country - if they vote.

TAKE SIX participants commit to identifying SIX unmarried women they will be responsible for getting to the polls. Unlike other efforts that focus only on registration, TAKE SIX asks women to build a relationship with their 6 voters, and stay in touch with them through Election Day -- or ensure their votes have been cast early.

Find out more here, and get involved!

VOTE EARLY

You can vote early at your county election board on the following days:

Friday, November 3, from 8 am to 6 pm.
Saturday, November 4, from 8 am to 1 pm.
and
Monday, November 6 from 8 am to 6 pm.

Hal Spake at Forum for Democratic Action
DINNER AND A VIDEO
Thursday, November 2

Hal Spake, Democratic candidate for Oklahoma's Fourth Congressional District, will speak at the November 2nd Forum for Democratic Action at the Santa Fe Cattle Co. Steakhouse. Mr. Spake, an Oklahoma military veteran and retired diplomat, will introduce the video "Iraq for Sale: The War Profiteers" (Who's getting killed. Who's making a killing.), from Brave New Films. The public is invited to attend.




Dinner service starts at 6:30 p.m. with speakers starting at 7:00 p.m. The cost is $12 for a full dinner or $10 for a soup & salad dinner, which includes tip and contribution to the Democratic Party. The Santa Fe Cattle Co. Steakhouse is located at 760 N. Interstate Dr., Norman. The Forum for Democratic Action, a Cleveland County Precinct 82 project, meets the first Thursday of each month at the Santa Fe.

For more information, contact Deb Kirsner at 360-4481.

Monopoly, Risk, Sorry, Life, Clue

Board games are great metaphors for every day life. We have a stack of them in our closet and when the kids come home to visit they often pull then out for some family fun.

A recent tv commercial by struggling GOP Lt. Gov. candidate Hiett features Democrat Jari Askins as a playing piece on a Monopoly board. If I had the money I'd do a commercial that shows Oklahomans can't afford the Risk of electing Hiett; that Life under Hiett would be Sorry and that voters with any Clue will vote for Askins on November 7th.

Then again, we could mention how many times Hiett passed Go in his Trivial Pursuit for power and collected $200 during the last legislative session for a legislative race that he was ineligible for then traded those dollars in for his Lt. Gov. race. Now, that's monopoly and someone got played. Get the Chutes and Ladders ready.

But hey, politics is not a board game and we don't live in Candy Land. It's real Life made possible by policies that matter and priorities that serve and protect the people. At least, those are the rules outlined by our Constitution.

Chalkboard Math

State Treasurer Scott Meacham has challenged his Republican opponent's simple math skills as outlined in this story in the Oklahoman today.

In addition, Meacham's chalkboard television ad, which began airing yesterday, points out that it's not just simple math that the GOP candidate can't handle. If you haven't seen the commercial yet, check it out later today on Meacham's website at www.votemeacham.com.

State Employee

One would think that if you receive a monthly paycheck from the State of Oklahoma that you would be considered a state employee. Nothing partisan about that analysis to be sure. But there is a statewide office holder, who draws a monthly paycheck from the state, who alleges he's not a state employee and thus is exempt from certain administrative and operational checks and balances within his office.

Developing story. Details coming later today.

Senate Democrats Lead in Key Races

Democrat Sean Burrage leads his Republican opponent in Senate District 2 by 48.7% to 39.2% with 12.2% undecided. This has been a great campaign run by a great candidate, good luck Sean!

Democrat John Mark Young has earned a 7.8% lead over his Republican opponent in the race for Senate District 12. Keep up the good work John Mark, Oklahoma needs you in the State Senate!

Democrat John Sparks has a commanding double digit lead over the Republican in Senate District 16. Not to rub it in or anything but the Republican is polling barely over 30%. Way to go John!

Democrat incumbent Senator Mary Easley has a double digit lead over the Republican challenger in Senate District 18. Thanks Senator for your leadership and sensitivity to your constituents!

Democrat Tom Ivester has a 25 point lead over the Republican in Senate District 26 in western Oklahoma. Tom's a fabulous candidate, a veteran, an attorney, and a farmer. He'll be a great voice for western Oklahoma.

ODP Media Release: Hunter Supports Smart Science; Fallin Denies Life-Saving Research

Oklahoma Democratic Party Chairman Lisa Pryor today said Democratic 5th Congressional District candidate, Dr. David Hunter will support smart science and support funding for embryonic stem-cell research if elected to Congress on Nov. 7th. His opponent, Mary Fallin has said she would follow party lines and not support this life-saving research.



“Democrats like Dr. Hunter, a long-time health provider, support this life-saving research. Oklahomans in the 5th District have a choice between a candidate who believes in crafting public policy based on extremist, limiting ideological beliefs, and one who believes in making decisions based on the best evidence available and the advice of experts,” Pryor said.

Pryor said voters can elect Hunter, a forward-thinking health professional committed to improving health care for all Oklahomans.

Stem cell research could open doors to new and improved solutions to medical problems and be the answer to curing diseases that effect millions of Americans living with ailments that scientists believe can treated or cured based on stem cell research.

“The extreme ideology of Republicans like Fallin is standing in the way of public policy,” Pryor said. “Americans overwhelmingly support expanding federal funding for stem cell research, and yet, Republicans continue to cater to their extreme right-wing base. We derserve a Congressman in the 5th District who understands the need to find new and creative solutions to our health care problems.”

Mary Fallin Opposes Breast Cancer Research;

Sen. Judy Eason McIntyre At Home Recovering

Last week, the Oklahoma Democratic Party exposed Mary Fallin's votes against breast cancer research, click here for the press release.

Today, Sen. Judy Eason McIntyre released a statement about her fight against breast cancer. Her doctors found it in August and after a double mastectomy she's in good spirits recovering at home.

Here at the Oklahoma Democratic Party, our prayers are with her. Click the link below to read her statement.

Oklahoma State Senate
Communications Division
State Capitol

Sen. Eason McIntyre Says Faith Got Her Through Breast Cancer;
Urges Women to Get Screened

State Senator Judy Eason McIntyre, D-Tulsa, had always been careful to have an annual mammogram, and had always gotten a clean bill of healthuntil this past August. When she saw the cluster of white flecks on the mammogram image, she knew something was wrong. A couple of weeks later a biopsy confirmed it was cancer.

"Emotionally, I went from shock, fear, denial, a feeling of helplessnessI started really thinking funeral plans," Eason McIntyre said.

But the Tulsa senator soon turned her energy and emotions into approaching the cancer pro-actively. She read everything she could about breast cancer and talked to women who had lived through it and she turned to her faith.

"While the physicians and everyone related to the medical team can do wondersat least for me, if I didn't give it to a higher being, I would probably swim in the same negative thoughts over and over again which will not do you any good during this process," Eason McIntyre said. "I put it in the hands of the good Lord."

Eason McIntyre first underwent a lumpectomy, but learned the cancer was invasive, which meant a mastectomy would be needed. Once again, she opted for a pro-active approach.

"I had already decided that if the cancer was invasive, I would have the other breast removed as well, rather than risk the cancer returning," Eason McIntyre said. That was three weeks ago. Recovering at home, Eason McIntyre said she felt just great and was looking forward to returning to the Capitol.

Because she opted for the double mastectomy and the cancer had not spread to the lymph nodes, Eason McIntyre will not have to undergo chemotherapy or radiation treatments. However, she will be on a five-year regime of the medication Tamoxifen to help keep her cancer-free. Now Eason McIntyre wants to use her experience to help other women

I really see this as an opportunity to help other women who are afraid and let them know they can get through this," Eason McIntyre said. "I want women to know even though they may be frightened, early detection can save their lives."

Hunter ad hits Fallin on Hastert visit

October 26, 2006 Thursday
By RON JENKINS, Associated Press Writer

A new television ad that began running Wednesday by Democrat David Hunter attempts to tie Republican congressional opponent Mary Fallin to the "moral crisis" in Washington because she is accepting fundraising help from House Speaker Dennis Hastert. ...

Hunter, the underdog in the 5th Congressional District race to replace Istook, began airing a 30-second TV spot in which he says: "Washington is broken and Mary Fallin's part of the problem. She's raising money with the politician who protected a sexual predator.

"That's wrong. This is not a political crisis, it's a moral crisis, and we deserve better."

The commercial spotlights headlines cobbled from newspaper accounts of Hastert's response to the congressional page scandal and his planned fundraising event in Oklahoma City on Monday on behalf of Fallin.

"It's time to give up on the politicians, fix the mess that they made of jobs and health care and get back to living our values, not just talking about them," Hunter says to end the ad.

Hunter had previously criticized Fallin for accepting money from GOP congressional political action committees and called on the three-term lieutenant governor to cancel the fundraiser with Hastert.

At least two incumbent Republican congressmen, Ron Lewis of Kentucky and Don Sherwood of Pennsylvania, canceled Hastert appearances after the page scandal broke. Hastert said he had no knowledge of sexually suggestive text messages that were reported to have been sent by disgraced Rep. Mark Foley, R-Fla., to congressional pages.

An aide said Fallin was in northeast Oklahoma on Wednesday campaigning for legislative candidates and could not be reached for comment. ...

ODP Media Release: Desperate Hiett Latches on to Democratic Party Success

Lisa Pryor, Oklahoma Democratic Party Chairman, said today the GOP’s candidate for Lt. Governor, Todd Hiett, is misleading Oklahoma voters by running ads that suggest a strong connection between Hiett and popular Democratic Governor Brad Henry. She said the advertisement is a thinly veiled attempt to distract voters from the Republican’s failed record in the last legislative session.



“This is a simple act of desperation by a Republican trying to plug into the success of a an extremely popular Democratic Governor. If House Speaker Todd Hiett spent more time working for Oklahoma families and less time obstructing progress and playing partisan games, the last legislative session would not be remembered as one of the least productive in Oklahoma history,” Pryor said. “Republicans like Hiett are so desperate to win, they will do and say anything to distract voters from their deceitful and divisive legacy of pay to play."

Pryor said Democrats have a real leader in Lt. Governor Jari Askins. A Lt. Governor candidate who can truly work with Governor Henry and who will get Henry’s vote on Nov. 7. Hiett, in two head-to-head debates with Askins, has avoided answering who he will vote for in the Governor’s race – Henry or challenger Ernest Istook, a fellow Republican.

“He avoids answering a simple question. What else is he hiding from Oklahoma voters? We deserve a Lt. Governor who cares about education and health care access for all Oklahomans,” Pryor said. “Jari Aksins, a candidate committed to job creation and fiscal responsibility, can honestly team with Governor Brad Henry and lead our state forward.”

Things Are Looking Up In Kansas

As previously mentioned on this blog, many Kansas politicians are abandoning the Republican Party and now running as Democrats. Most say that the GOP moved away from them with their hard-right politics that don't benefit the country. One newspaper editorial tells their own story quite nicely.

From the Overland Park, Kansas, newspaper, THE JOHNSON COUNTY SUN:

Why our shift?

Steve Rose, Chairman
October 05, 2006

As we prepare ourselves to make political endorsements in subsequent issues, I can tell you unequivocally that this newspaper has never endorsed so many Democrats. Not even close.

In the 56 years we have been publishing in Johnson County, this basically has been a Republican newspaper. In the old days, before the Republican civil war that fractured the party, we were traditional Republicans. That is, we happily endorsed Jan Meyers for Congress, Bob Dole for U.S. Senate, Nancy Kassebaum for U.S. Senate; virtually every Republican state legislator from here, with a few rare exceptions; and most governors, although we did endorse the conservative Democrats George and Bob Docking and John Carlin.

The point is, I can name on two hands over a half century the number of Democrats we have endorsed for public office.

This year, we will do something different.

You will read why we are endorsing Kathleen Sebelius for governor and Mark Parkinson for lieutenant governor; Dennis Moore to be re-elected to the U.S. Congress; Paul Morrison for Kansas attorney general; and a slew of local Democratic state legislative candidates. These are not liberal Democrats. They are what fairly can be described as conservative Democrats, and we can prove that in our forthcoming endorsements.

But I could not help but put in perspective a more global phenomenon that has led us to re-evaluate our traditional support for Republicans.

This change may come as no surprise to our most cynical conservative readers who would dismiss me (and others on the editorial board) as being a moderate Republican and, therefore, the same as a Democrat. To them, there is no difference.

But the shift, frankly, shocks me, because I have pulled the lever over and over since my first vote in 1968 for Republicans. If I was a closet Democrat, I must have hidden it well, especially from myself, since I always beat up on Democrats in my columns. I have called them leftists, socialists, and every other name in the book, because I thought they were flat-out wrong.

And, for the most part, I still do. I am opposed to big government. I have little use for unions. I never liked the welfare plans. I am opposed to weak-kneed defense policies. I have always been for fiscal prudence. I think back to the policies of most Democrats, and I cringe.

So, what in the world has happened?

The Republican Party has changed, and it has changed monumentally.

You almost cannot be a victorious traditional Republican candidate with mainstream values in Johnson County or in Kansas anymore, because these candidates never get on the ballot in the general election. They lose in low turnout primaries, where the far right shows up to vote in disproportionate numbers.

To win a Republican primary, the candidate must move to the right.

What does to-the-right mean?

It means anti-public education, though claiming to support it.

It means weak support of our universities, while praising them.

It means anti-stem cell research.

It means ridiculing global warming.

It means gay bashing. Not so much gay marriage, but just bashing gays.

It means immigrant bashing. I'm talking about the viciousness.

It means putting religion in public schools. Not just prayer.

It means mocking evolution and claiming it is not science.

It means denigrating even abstinence-based sex education.

Note, I did not say it means "anti-abortion," because I do not find that position repugnant, at all. I respect that position. But everything else adds up to priorities that have nothing to do with the Republican Party I once knew.

That's why, in the absence of so-called traditional Republican candidates, the choice comes down to right-wing Republicans or conservative Democrats.

And now you know why we have been forced to move left.

Very Short Stories

Recently, Wired magazine asked many authors to submit a short story written with only six words. Several of the authors used the task to comment on our current political situation - those are listed below. Read the rest here.

Parallel universe. Bush, destitute, joins army. - Steven Meretzky

Democracy postponed. Whence franchise? Ask Diebold... - David Brin

Three to Iraq. One came back. - Graeme Gibson

Bush told the truth. Hell froze. - William Gibson

K.I.A. Baghdad, Aged 18 - Closed Casket - Richard K. Morgan

What's Your Personal Platform?




Take the CNN Quiz here, as part of their America Votes 2006, and then share your platform and views with others...

Oklahoman Profiles HD 98 Candidate Rae Weese

Rae is dedicated to improving Oklahoma schools and is doing a great job in her race against incumbent John Trebilcock, the kind of Republican we need to send home.

Read the Full Story....



Candidate puts high priority on interaction


By John Estus
The Oklahoman

BROKEN ARROW -- Rae Weese grew tired of hearing her fellow House District 98 constituents complain about not being able to reach Rep. John Trebilcock, R-Broken Arrow, on the phone.

Her solution? File for office and unseat the incumbent herself.

Weese, a Democrat, said voters need to elect somebody who interacts with the community. She said Trebilock doesn't.

"He's not accessible," Weese said.

Trebilock wasn't accessible to The Oklahoman, either. He did not return repeated phone calls during a four-day period.

Living in District 98 for 30 years has helped Weese get to know the people there better than most, she said.

That's why campaigning against someone with a larger bankroll doesn't worry her.

"I don't know that we need all that much money. I think sometimes people spend an obscene amount of money on campaigns.

"The secret is talking to people one-on-one. Walking down Main Street and meeting all the merchants. Going house-to-house, business-to-business," Weese said.

Weese never has run for elected office but was a delegate for Sen. John Kerry's 2004 presidential campaign and said she regularly volunteers for state candidates.

Her children attended Broken Arrow Public Schools, and Weese spent much of her time volunteering at the schools. She said it gave her first-hand knowledge of struggles faced by educators.

She said while teachers received admirable raises of $3,000 this past year, she would like to see all school workers get a raise.

"The support staff got nothing. They're equally important, from the janitor to the cafeteria to the office workers," Weese said.

She said she won't vote party line if elected and said her opponent has done so too often during his term.

Weese's husband, Dennis, is the Democratic candidate for Senate District 36.

Stay the Course?

ODP Media Release: Oklahoma Republicans Must Change Course Not Rhetoric

Lisa Pryor, Oklahoma Democratic Party Chairman, today said the Republican philosophy of “stay the course” continues to hurt America and Oklahoma. The Center for American Progress Action Fund today released a report card on the Bush Administration's failing record in Iraq. The report gave the Republican Administration two D's and three F's on their inability to create security and stability, governance and democracy, economic reconstruction and the impact on U.S. national security. The report comes out at the same time as a story in the Washington Post which says the Administration will no longer use the phrase "stay the course" in talking about their failed strategy in Iraq.



“President Bush needs to provide Americans a plan, not more rhetoric, which is carefully crafted in response to plummeting poll numbers on the eve of Election Day,” Pryor said. “Oklahoma soldiers, their families and the American people deserve better. We want to defeat the enemy in Iraq and keep America safe. But, the Bush Administration's failed Iraq policy is feeding terrorism, not fighting it.”

But President Bush isn't the only one who has advocated the stay the course strategy even in the face of evidence of its failure. Oklahoma Congressional Republicans Tom Cole, John Sullivan, Frank Lucas, as well as nominee Mary Fallin, have continued to spout Washington Republican talking points, refusing to admit that the Bush Administration's current policy on Iraq, the war on terrorism, and the economy is just not working. Now that even the Bush Administration has backed off from their failed rhetoric, will Oklahoma Republicans flip flop too?

“Oklahomans already know that staying the course in Iraq is not an option," said Pryor said. “The rubber-stamp set of Cole, Sullivan and Lucas must do more than just change the way they talk about Iraq, they must change their permanent commitment to a failed strategy on the economy, the war on terror, privatizing social security and failing to fund education."

THE 10 WORST CONGRESSMEN

Is anyone else surprised that 9 out of the 10 worst Congressmen belong to the Republican Party? Check out the list by Rolling Stone here, and prepare to be shocked by number 1 - he's only the leader of the Republicans in the House. He's their leader, no wonder the entire delegation is full of corruption!

Let's change things - vote Democratic on November 7!

A Note From President Bill Clinton

Our way works. Their way doesn't.

That isn't just a theory anymore - it's historical fact.

Under Democratic leadership, we created millions more jobs; we lifted millions more people out of poverty and gave them health care; we expanded the middle class and raised the incomes of our families.

The Republicans who control the White House and the Congress have led us down a very different path. They've chosen ideology over community, harsh politics over good government, and personal destruction over common ground. They've left ordinary Americans to fend for themselves, and left the United States isolated around the world when we should be leading it instead.

Democrats have already won the battle of ideas. By a large majority, Americans are ready for a change. But now we need to win the battle on the ground - and that's where you come in. With your help, we can take back the House and Senate and move America forward.

Opportunities like this one come once in a lifetime. The far-right wing that is running the Republican Party has never been more vulnerable.

We are going to pick up seats in the Senate in November. The only question is how many: will we merely narrow the difference between us and Republicans, or will we elect a Democratic majority that gives us a chance to start putting our government back in our hands?

If you see the polls and read the newspapers, you know that every day, more and more Americans from all sorts of backgrounds and every corner of the country are demanding change in Washington.

Republicans are seeing it, too. And they're turning to one of the oldest and dirtiest tricks in the book: they're trying to scare people. They want folks to stop thinking. So when they spread fear, we need to spread facts.

Democrats across the nation are helping candidates all over the country to do just that. Already, they have knocked on hundreds of thousands of doors and made millions of phone calls. They've reached out to thousands of new voters every day. But we need to do more.

I am going to do everything I can over the next 13 days to reelect Democrats across our country to the House and Senate.

The races are close, and in these final days, your help makes all the difference. Americans are turning against the Republicans and are thinking for themselves. They're not afraid. They're hopeful.

If we have the resources to answer Republican fear-mongering with Democratic truth-telling, we are going to win this election.

That isn't a theory either - and with your help, the days of Republican control in Washington will be history.

Jackson County Democratic Party Headquarters

I just spoke with Sweet Pea Abernathy on the phone this morning, and she and the other Jackson County Democrats are working hard for our victory in 13 days. They opened their headquarters about a month ago, and have it stocked full of signs and supplies. If you're in the neighborhood, stop by and or just give them a call at 580.480.0044, and thank them for all the hard work they've done this year.

Partnership Project Staff

On November 7th Oklahoma Democrats will reap the benefits of the hard work of our three DNC Partnership Project staffers Teresa Hill, Jason McCarty, and Courtney Ruark. These three are part of the project envisioned and funded by DNC Chairman Howard Dean to build up the state parties in all 50 states.

Teresa, Jason, and Courtney have been working throughout the year to develop precinct and county organizations and to provide a positive message and image to the work of the party -- they have provided dozens of trainings, made thousands of phone calls, knocked thousands of doors, provided creative messages and communications to voters, and developed new networks of Democrats in places where there were none.

Please let them know how much you appreciate their hard work. Call them at 405.427.3366. Better yet, make a contribution to the DNC to support the good work of the Partnership Project.

Special Thanks to Kitti

Special thanks to Kitti Asberry, Oklahoma County Democratic Party Chair, for her dedication and support to the ODP staff and officers. Kitti's smile and energy are contagious! She has a great group of volunteers working out of the ODP HQ to help our GOTV efforts. Call her at our office, 427.3366 and thank her for all she's doing to help elect Democrats.

Mayflower Candidate Forum

Last night's forum at Mayflower Congregational Church in OKC was a breath of fresh air and civility. Sponsored jointly with the Temple B'nai Israel, organizers invited Democratic and Republican candidates for local, congressional, and statewide offices. Participants and audience members were welcomed by Dr. Robin Meyers who prefaced the evening with a strong admonition of the importance of the separation of church and state. Meyers clearly stated the ground rules, including no distribution of campaign literature, then invited the audience to listen carefully to the candidates. The audience was polite and obviously very serious about their politics and their faith. Candidates running as Democrats on the ballot who were present included CD5 nominee Dr. David Hunter, Oklahoma County Commissioner Jim Roth, SD40 nominee Pat Potts, HD85 nominee Jennifer Seal, HD87 nominee Dana Orwig, and SD38 nominee Andrew Rice. Sheriff John Whetsel attended but was not on the program.

Congressional Endorsement - New York Style

Today's NY Times carries an endorsement for the Democratic Party's Diane Farrell. Their endorsement changes course from long time support of Republican Chris Shays. While this is a New York race, the arguments to elect the Democratic candidate, individuals aside, hold up across the board from state to state. A vote for Republican incumbents, no matter their local stature, is a vote to continue the egregious failures of the GOP. So, in Oklahoma, a vote for incumbents Sullivan, Lucas and Cole is a vote in favor of failed policies in Iraq and failure to bring "oversight to a reckless White House." Read the story below from the Times. Then encourage all your friends and families, neighbors and coworkers to vote for Democrats on November 7th. It's not personal, it's politics and it's about a new direction for America. Vote for Alan Gentges in CD1. Vote for Dan Boren in CD2. Vote for Sue Barton in CD3. Vote for Hal Spake in CD4. Vote for Dr. David Hunter in CD5.



October 25, 2006
Editorial
A Congressional Endorsement

The most fundamental rule of democracy is that when elected officials fail repeatedly, voters throw them out of office. If the polls are anywhere near accurate, most Americans have concluded that the Republican Party — particularly the Republican majority in the House of Representatives — has failed egregiously. On Iraq. On ethics. On oversight of a reckless White House. But that conviction sometimes comes into conflict with the feeling that a good representative should be rewarded with re-election, without regard to party.

All of that brings us to Representative Christopher Shays, a Republican from Connecticut’s Fourth District. Mr. Shays has been in office for nearly 20 years, during which his state has grown increasingly Democratic. This year his race with Diane Farrell, a former first selectwoman of Westport, is regarded as one of the tightest in the nation.

The Times has endorsed Mr. Shays in every race in which he has faced a serious opponent. While this page has disagreed with him on many issues — from tax cuts for the wealthy to warrantless wiretapping — we have admired his independence and respected his leadership on issues like campaign finance reform.

Still, as his party has moved to the right, Mr. Shays has taken more and more stands with which we have profound disagreement. His position on immigration reform is far closer to the crabbed, xenophobic stance of the House Republicans than the fairer, bipartisan approach of the Senate. During the campaign, his remarks about the treatment of prisoners at Abu Ghraib prison — which he minimized as “something less than torture” — were disturbing.

Ms. Farrell, Mr. Shays’s opponent, is an excellent candidate. After eight years as first selectwoman, she has a better understanding than most legislators of the impact of federal mandates and tax policy on local government. She is smart and articulate, and her positions on the issues are extremely well thought-out.

When Ms. Farrell first challenged Mr. Shays two years ago, The Times chose to endorse him as a rare voice for moderation within a Republican caucus that seemed bent on distracting the electorate with assaults on gay marriage, flag burning and abortion while running up the deficit, encouraging a ruinous war in Iraq and supporting a White House bent on exalting the power of the president at the expense of the Constitution.

Now it is time to draw the line. Mr. Shays may be a beacon of integrity, but if he is re-elected, he will vote to continue House control by a party that has repeatedly sold out the country to special-interest lobbyists. His position on Iraq, which has gone through tortuous re-evaluations, now seems basically sensible. But if he is re-elected, he will support a Republican leadership that has refused to question even the most ruinous decisions by George Bush, Dick Cheney and Donald Rumsfeld about the conduct of American foreign policy.

Mr. Shays has been a good congressman, but not good enough to overcome the fact that his re-election would help empower a party that is long overdue for a shakeup. This decision is painful, but not difficult, given the high caliber of his opponent. With due respect for Mr. Shays’s service, we strongly endorse Diane Farrell for Congress.

No Bush Left Behind
The President's brother Neil is making hay from school reform

Across the country, some teachers complain that President George W. Bush's makeover of public education promotes "teaching to the test." The President's younger brother Neil takes a different tack: He's selling to the test. The No Child Left Behind Act compels schools to prove students' mastery of certain facts by means of standardized exams. Pressure to perform has energized the $1.9 billion-a-year instructional software industry.

Now, after five years of development and backing by investors like Saudi Prince Alwaleed Bin Talal and onetime junk-bond king Michael R. Milken, Neil Bush aims to roll his high-tech teacher's helpers into classrooms nationwide. He calls them "curriculum on wheels," or COWs. The $3,800 purple plug-and-play computer/projectors display lively videos and cartoons: the XYZ Affair of the late 1790s as operetta, the 1828 Tariff of Abominations as horror flick. The device plays songs that are supposed to aid the memorization of the 22 rivers of Texas or other facts that might crop up in state tests of "essential knowledge."

Bush's Ignite! Inc. has sold 1,700 COWs since 2005, mainly in Texas, where Bush lives and his brother was once governor. In August, Houston's school board authorized expenditures of up to $200,000 for COWs. The company expects 2006 revenue of $5 million. Says Bush about the impact of his name: "I'm not saying it hasn't opened any doors. It may have helped with some sales." (In September, the U.S. Education Dept.'s inspector general accused the agency of improperly favoring at least five publishers, including The McGraw-Hill Companies, which owns BusinessWeek. A company spokesman says: "Our reading programs have been successful in advancing student achievement for decades; that's why educators hold them in such high regard.")

The stars haven't always aligned for Bush, but at times financial support has. A foundation linked to the controversial Reverend Sun Myung Moon has donated $1 million for a COWs research project in Washington (D.C.)-area schools. In 2004 a Shanghai chip company agreed to give Bush stock then valued at $2 million for showing up at board meetings. (Bush says he received one-fifth of the shares.) In 1988 a Colorado savings and loan failed while he served on its board, making him a prominent symbol of the S&L scandal. Neil calls himself "the most politically damaged of the [Bush] brothers."

While hardly the first brother to embarrass a President -- remember Billy Carter's Billy Beer or Roger Clinton's cocaine? -- Neil could be the first to seek profit from a hallmark Presidential crusade. And also that of a governor: Jeb makes school standards a centerpiece in Florida, too.

Neil says he never talks shop with his brothers. He attributes his interest in education to his struggles with dyslexia. His son, Pierce, also had difficulties in school, he says. "Not one of our investors has ever asked for any kind of special access -- a visa, a trip to the Lincoln Bedroom, an autographed picture, or anything."

Cody Graves is a dedicated to cleaning up the Corporation Commission

We elected Cody to fix it before and now we need to send him back. It is time for responsibility and accountability from our public officials. Cody will make sure the workings of the Commission are transparent and work for the middle class families of Oklahoma.

His opponent, Bob Anthony, approved a six-figure payment in a utility rate case settlement that include payments to a former aide who worked as a consultant in the case after working on the matter while he was still employed by the commission, e-mails and commission documents reveal. Commission documents and e-mails in the case against Oklahoma Natural Gas Company also reveal that Anthony may have conducted improper, secret negotiations with the plaintiff in the case. Bob Anthony failed to disclose the improper communication with the plaintiff in this case, he knowingly voted to approve a settlement that included paying his one-time aide for work he performed as a state employee.

Read More

Is Everyone Sick of Republicans?

It seems so! Yesterday, while having lunch with my mom, she started talking to me about one of my family members - one of the staunchest Republicans in my entire family. She said that even HE is so fed up with the failed leadership of the Republican Party that he told her he was voting a STRAIGHT DEMOCRATIC TICKET on November 7. I couldn't believe it!

If this is happening to their true-believers here in Oklahoma, then we are going to have a huge Democratic Victory on Election Day. I can't wait!

Only 14 Days Left - We Really Are In The Home Stretch



Thank you to everyone who attended our very successful event - Off To The Races - The Home Stretch - at Remington Park on Friday! We have two weeks to bring home victory for Democrats across our state, and on November 7, all of your hard work will be worth it.

THE WORST CONGRESS EVER

Read in the Rolling Stone about "how our national legislature has become a stable of thieves and perverts -- in five easy steps."

Matt Taibbi writes, "There is very little that sums up the record of the U.S. Congress in the Bush years better than a half-mad boy-addict put in charge of a federal commission on child exploitation. After all, if a hairy-necked, raincoat-clad freak like Rep. Mark Foley can get himself named co-chairman of the House Caucus on Missing and Exploited Children, one can only wonder: What the hell else is going on in the corridors of Capitol Hill these days?"

You can help change things on November 7 - VOTE DEMOCRATIC!

Read More

MUST READ:
REPUBLICANS SPEND TO SAVE STRONGHOLDS FROM IDAHO TO MINNESOTA

Reports show that Republicans have been reallocating money to what are normally "safe" districts as the number of competitive Congressional races increase. This news reinforces that voters across the country are rejecting Republicans' failed leadership and want Democrats to provide new direction for America.

Read the entire article here.

Republican Corruption...
From Jack Abramoff to Karl Rove to the RNC

"I DON'T RECALL": MEHLMAN'S ABRAMOFF DEFENSE

On CNN, RNC Chairman Ken Mehlman gave evasive explanations on whether, while he served as Political Director in the Bush White House, he helped the clients of convicted former GOP superlobbyist Jack Abramoff by having a State Department employee fired. Three times during his interview, Mehlman said I dont recall." [CNN, 10/15/06] The fact is Mehlman met with Abramoff on at least six occasions, and he may have delivered for his clients at least three times.

“I Don’t Recall”: Mehlman’s Abramoff Defense
Outstanding Questions For Ken Mehlman

On CNN, Republican National Committee Chairman Ken Mehlman gave evasive explanations of whether, while he served as Political Director in the Bush White House, he helped the clients of convicted former GOP superlobbyist Jack Abramoff by having a State Department employee fired. Three times during his interview, Mehlman said “I don’t recall." [CNN, 10/15/06] Despite Mehlman’s statement yesterday on CNN that he “let the decision makers make the decisions” on issues important to Abramoff's clients while he was White House Political Director, hundreds of pages of recently released emails tell a different story. In fact, Mehlman worked so closely with Abramoff that other White House staff asked Abramoff to “contact Ken only” when he needed assistance.

The fact is Mehlman met with Abramoff on at least six occasions, and he may have delivered for his clients at least three times. Abramoff and his associates claimed that Mehlman got a State Department employee that Abramoff didn't like fired; Mehlman allegedly “took care” of getting $16 million released for one of Abramoff’s tribal clients; and there are questions about whether Mehlman got the White House to weigh in on behalf of Abramoff’s chosen candidates in an upcoming election in Guam.

Outstanding Questions For Ken Mehlman

1) What exactly did you do on behalf of Abramoff’s clients while you were one of President Bush’s top political strategists?
2) What meetings did you set up for Abramoff’s clients?
3) What, if anything, did you receive in return from Abramoff for your assistance?
4) Did you authorize or know about the leaking of top secret information relevant to Guam to Jack Abramoff?
5) Did you free up millions for a jail for Abramoff’s clients in return for RNC campaign cash?

Commonwealth Of The Northern Marianas Islands
Abramoff’s CNMI Lobbying Team Had “Extensive Access” to Bush Administration Officials. According to his lobbying firm’s billing records, Jack Abramoff and his Marianas Islands lobbying team had almost 200 contacts with Bush Administration officials. The records include meetings with Cheney policy advisers Ron Christie and Stephen Ruhlen, Attorney General Ashcroft at the Justice Department, White House intergovernmental affairs chief Ruben Barrales, U.S. Trade Representative Robert Zoellick, Deputy Interior Secretary Steven Griles and others. While records show that many of the meetings were handled by Abramoff’s lieutenants, Abramoff personally with Top Interior Department officials, “whose Office of Insular Affairs oversees the Mariana Islands and other U.S. territories.” [AP, 5/6/05]

Abramoff Had At Least Six Direct Contacts With Ken Mehlman.
“The lobbying of Mehlman…includes a dinner…at Signatures Restaurant, a discussion between Abramoff and Mehlman regarding political appointments at a White House reception, and a meeting with Tony Rudy regarding efforts to secure Federal funds for the Mississippi Band of the Choctaw Indians, an Abramoff client.” There is a possibility that Mehlman also attended a U2 concert in Abramoff’s suite at the MCI Center. [House Government Reform Committee, 9/29/06; Los Angeles Times, 10/15/06]

• Mehlman Delivers: Mehlman, Abramoff, and CNMI. Former State Department Official Allen Stayman, was a particular target of Abramoff’s because of his work advocating labor changes in the CNMI. Abramoff worked for months to get Stayman replaced. “State Department officials resisted the dismissal, and negotiations dragged on for months. In May 2001, one of Mehlman's deputies assured Abramoff's team that, ‘Obviously, this guy cannot stay’…That July 9, Ralston e-mailed Abramoff with news of a deal on Stayman: ‘He'll be out in four months.’” [Report by the House Government Reform Committee and Emails Released, 9/29/06; Los Angeles Times, 10/15/06]

Mehlman: I Don’t Recall. On CNN this weekend, Mehlman was asked about an article in the Los Angeles Times which asserted that he helped get a State Department official fired, at the request of convicted former Republican Lobbyist Jack Abramoff. The official, Allan Steyman, was working on issues relating to one of Jack Abramoff’s clients, the Northern Marianas Islands. On three different occasions, Abramoff said could not remember the affair: “… I also don't recall the specifics of this matter involving Mr. Stayman. But as a matter of course, and certainly the first term, I had, frequently, people come to see me with political issues they wanted talked about. … I don't recall that specific matter that he came to me for, but I had a way of dealing with all these matters, which is to let the policy-makers or the personnel deciders know exactly what people said. And they made the decisions. What's interesting about this, though, Wolf,
while I don't recall it specifically …” [CNN, Late Edition, 10/15/06, emphasis added]

The Mississippi Choctaws
Norquist and Abramoff Arranged For Pay-To-Play Meetings For Bush And The Choctaw.

"An arrangement involving two Indian tribes, the head of an anti-tax organization and a lobbyist now under criminal investigation - plus $50,000 - secured Indian leaders a private audience with President Bush. … At the behest of Abramoff, two Indian tribes - the Coushatta Tribe of Louisiana and Mississippi Band of Choctaw - paid $25,000 each to Norquist’s group to underwrite a 2001 event that included a private meeting with Bush. Two other entities, which the group declined to identify, also helped underwrite the event.” [AP, 6/8/05]

• After $15,000 Contribution To The RNC, Mehlman Delivers.
Abramoff was working to free up $16.3 million for a jail that his Choctaw Indian clients were planning to build in Mississippi. After meeting with Mehlman about the Choctaw request for Federal funds, Rudy wrote Abramoff: “Mehlman said he would ‘take care of this.’ He was a rock star.” Shortly after that meeting, Rudy recommended a $15,000 contribution to the Republican National Committee. “Let's give the check to Ken Mehlman at the White House,” Rudy said. Two weeks after the RNC received their donation, a staff member for Representative Chip Pickering, a Mississippi Republican whose district includes the Choctaws, e-mailed Rudy to say that she had discussed the issue with Mehlman and that they had “promised to work with us on it.” DOJ eventually released the funding for the jail. [Report by the House Government Reform Committee, 9/29/06; Time, Sunday 10/23/05; Los Angeles Times, 10/15/06]

Guam

Abramoff Lobbied for Guam. Abramoff received about $400,000 for his work lobbying against a “judicial bill” in Guam and asked Tony Rudy, Rep. Tom DeLay's deputy chief of staff, to see if he could garner any assistance in helping the 1998 gubernatorial candidacy of former Gov. Joseph Ada and then Sen. Felix Camacho in an effort to land a larger lobbying contract. [Pacific Daily News, 4/3/06]

• Mehlman Delivers: Mehlman, Abramoff, and Guam. “On October 9, 2002, Abramoff e-mailed Mehlman to seek an endorsement from President Bush for Republican candidates running in Guam. Within two weeks, Susan Ralston emailed Abramoff with a message from Mehlman: “Ken asked me to let you know that he has the quote to be approved for your Guam candidates.” [Report by the House Government Reform Committee and Emails Released, 9/29/06; Los Angeles Times, 10/15/06]

DOJ Suspicious of Abramoff and Mehlman; Abramoff Was Provided with Top
Secret FBI Report on Homeland Security and Guam. The lobbying of Mehlman by Abramoff and his colleagues has also been examined by the Inspector General at the Department of Justice. According to the IG, an official in the White House Office of Political Affairs, Leonard Rodriguez, “kept Abramoff aware of information relevant to Guam…at the behest of Ken Mehlman, the White House political director, who ‘recommended or suggested that I reach out to make Jack aware’ of issues related to Guam.’” The Inspector General’s concerns were sparked by the fact that Abramoff was given access to a top-secret FBI report on security concerns in the Pacific, including the possibility of attacks on Guam and the Northern Marianas. It is currently unclear who leaked the document to Abramoff and whether it was provided to him at Mehlman’s direction. [Report by the House Government Reform Committee and Emails Released, 9/29/06; Salon 7/6/06]

FROM BAD TO WORSE: VIOLENCE IN IRAQ RAGES ON

USA Today reported, “The news from Iraq is going from bad to worse…Violence among rival religious sects is eclipsing the insurgency and pushing Iraq toward all-out civil war.” [USA Today, 10/19/06]

Top UN Humanitarian Official Says Violence In Iraq is “Totally Out of Control.” “The violence inside Iraq has ‘spiralled totally out of control,’ the United Nations' top humanitarian official said today as he appealed to the country's religious, ethnic and other community leaders to do much more to try to stop the killings and massive displacement of people. At least 315,000 people have fled their homes in the past seven or eight months, driven by military operations or sectarian violence that has escalated since a key Shiite shrine in Samarra was bombed in February, Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs Jan Egeland told a press
briefing in Geneva.” [States News Service, 10/11/06]

UN Secretary General Asserted That Iraq Could Slide Into Full-Fledged Civil War. U.N. Secretary-General Kofi Annan asserted that Iraq is in danger of sliding into full-scale civil war. [St. Louis Post-Dispatch (Missouri), 9/28/06]

BIN LADEN BEEN MISSING
Check Out New DNC Ad

The Democratic National Committee released video recently showing the Bush Administration's willingness to use fear and smear tactics to gain political advantage in a tough election year. This ad makes the point that Osama bin Laden is still on the loose because of the record of failure of this administration to capture him. As you know, the Bush Administration closed a unit that for a decade had the mission of hunting Osama bin Laden and his top lieutenants.

Click here for the new DNC ad.

Two new polls are out tonight from Washington Post/ABC and the Cook Political Report.


* Dems Hold Largest Head-to-Head Margin in Two Decades. The ABC/WP survey gives Democrats a 54%-41% lead over Republicans, the highest level of Dem preference in this survey this close to Election Day since 1984. Dems also lead among independents (59%-31%) and men (54%-42). The Cook Political Report survey gives Dems a 57%-35% lead among most likely voters.



* By a 20-Point Margin, Dems are Much More Enthusiastic About Midterms. 69% of Dems call the 2006 midterms more important than other congressional elections in their lifetime, versus just 49% of Republicans. (ABC/WP)



* Dems' Early Voter Contact Effort Is Paying Off. As many registered voters say, they've been contacted on behalf of a Democratic candidate as often as on behalf of a Republican candidate (about two in 10 in both cases). And the Democratic calls seems better targeted: People who've been solicited on behalf of a Democratic candidate favor the Democrat in their district by a 45-point margin; people who've been contacted on behalf of a Republican prefer the Republican by a narrower 19 points. (ABC/WP)



* Dems Lead On Every Issue. The ABC/Post poll has Dems leading on every issue, including terror (+1), Iraq (+8), North Korea (+7), ethics (+13) and the economy (+9). Almost two-thirds of independents disapprove of Iraq, including a quarter of Republicans. Of the nearly 60% of registered voters who oppose the war in Iraq, more than three quarters say they favor Democrats for Congress. (ABC/WP)



* Bush's Numbers Sink Again. Bush approval ratings fell another five points this month to 37%, his second-lowest approval rating ever in the ABC/Post poll. Even worse: Nearly twice as many registered voters say they'll cast their ballot as a way to show opposition to the president (31 percent) as to support him (17 percent). (ABC/WP)



Full Cook Political Report/RT Strategies Results

Might Support Republicans on November 7?

First See What The Republican Failure of Leadership
Has Done To The Real Terrorists:

Taliban Resurgence In Afghanistan
Violence On The Rise Over The Past Year In Afghanistan. "Hewing closely to a strategy used by Iraqi insurgents, Taliban militants are increasingly targeting top government officials in Afghanistan, which has seen a spike in assassinations and attempted killings the last six weeks. ... Violence has spiked alarmingly in Afghanistan this year, and insurgents have adopted tactics used in Iraq , such as roadside bombings and suicide attacks." [AP, 10/19/06]

NATO Commander: US Didn't Follow Through In Afghanistan. "The U.S.-led coalition in Afghanistan failed to follow through as it should have after ousting the Taliban government in 2001, setting the stage for this year's deadly resurgence, the NATO commander in the country said Tuesday. The mistake consisted of adopting 'a peacetime approach' too early, British Gen. David Richards told Pentagon reporters. He said the international community has six months to correct the problem before losing Afghan support, reiterating a warning he issued last week. 'The Taliban were defeated. And it looked all pretty hunky-dory,' Richard said of the environment at the end of 2001. 'We thought it was all done and didn't treat it as aggressively as, with the benefit of hindsight, we should have done.'" [AP, 10/17/06]

Our Troops Aren't Equipped
Pentagon Study Found That 80 Percent Of Marines Killed By Wounds To Upper
Body Could Have Been Saved If They Had the Right Kind of Armor. A Pentagon
study has found that as many as 80 percent of the marines who have been killed in Iraq from wounds to the upper body could have survived if they had had extra body armor. Such armor has been available since 2003, but until recently the Pentagon has largely declined to supply it to troops despite calls from the field for additional protection, according to military officials. [New York Times, 1/7/06]

Americans Still Aren’t Safe At Home
Under Bush Republican Leadership, the 9/11 Commission Recommendations
Have Not Been Properly Implemented. The 9/11 Commission gave the Bush
Administration 5 F’s and 12 D’s on the implementation of the Commission’s recommendations for homeland security. [Final Report on 9/11 Commission Recommendations, 12/05]

FIRST RESPONDERS: Emergency Preparedness Still Inadequate. The President’s
budget for 2007 proposed to cut $612 million from first responder grants and training programs. The budget cuts funding levels for programs designed to assist state and local law enforcement agencies by more than $1 billion compared to FY 2006, the Firefighters Grant Program was cut by 50 percent, and the National Domestic Preparedness Consortium, which trains first responders, was cut by 66 percent. In addition, the President’s 2007 budget requested no funding to enhance interoperable communications. [“The State of Homeland Security, 2006” prepared by the Democratic Staff of the Committee on Homeland Security; 2/06]

Feeling Safer Because Bush Invaded Iraq,
or Because He Ignored North Korea and Iran?
Understand What Is Really At Stake

Iraq Occupation Is Hindering The War On Terror
NIE Said Iraq Made Overall Terrorism Problem Worse. The National Intelligence Estimate “says that the Iraq war has made the overall terrorism problem worse.” [New York Times, 9/24/06]

North Korea Testing Nuclear Weapons
North Korea Now Has Nuclear Weapons. In October 2006, North Korea tested a nuclear weapon.A report by the National Security Advisory Group issued in July of 2005 states that “North Korea’s runaway nuclear program could be a direct path to nuclear terror…North Korea sells missiles and other dangerous technology worldwide, with no apparent limits or compunction…[the country’s] leaders and elite engage in smuggling, counterfeiting, and other illicit activities. These same people might traffic in nuclear materials the way A.Q. Khan trafficked in Pakistan’s nuclear technology.” [Washington Post, 10/19/06; Worst Weapons in Worst Hands, The National Security Advisory Group, July 2005]

Iran And Nuclear Weapons
Iran Pursuing Nuclear Arms Program. Iran hid its nuclear program for more than a
dozen years from the International Atomic Energy Agency, the nuclear monitoring arm of the United Nations, and now the United States and Europe contend that Iran is pursuing an arms program. In January of 2006, Iran restarted its effort to make atomic fuel after negotiations with Britain, France and Germany over the fate of its atomic program broke down. [New York Times, 4/28/06; New York Times, 8/7/06]

NIE: Iraq War Spread Jihad Ideology. An opening section of the report, “Indicators of the Spread of the Global Jihadist Movement,” cites the Iraq war as a reason for the diffusion of jihad ideology. The classified National Intelligence Estimate attributes a more direct role to the Iraq war in fueling radicalism than that presented either in recent White House documents or in a report released Wednesday by the House Intelligence Committee, according to several officials in Washington involved in preparing the assessment or who have read the final document. [New York Times, 9/24/06]

North Korea Testing Nuclear Weapons
North Korea Now Has Nuclear Weapons. In October 2006, North Korea tested a nuclear weapon. A report by the National Security Advisory Group issued in July of 2005 states that “North Korea’s runaway nuclear program could be a direct path to nuclear terror…North Korea sells missiles and other dangerous technology worldwide, with no apparent limits or compunction…[the country’s] leaders and elite engage in smuggling, counterfeiting, and other illicit activities. These same people might traffic in nuclear materials the way A.Q. Khan trafficked in Pakistan’s nuclear technology.” [Washington Post, 10/19/06; Worst Weapons in Worst Hands, The National Security Advisory Group, July 2005]

Experts Say Bush Administration Strategy Has Claimed Credit For Diplomatic
Process But Failed to Take Any Responsibility for a Lack of Results. A report by the National Security Advisory Group issued in July of 2005 states that “Since 9/11, in the face of North Korea’s runaway nuclear program, U.S. policymakers: did nothing as North Korea crossed redline after redline; claimed credit for diplomatic process (the Six-Party Talks) but have taken no responsibility for total lack of results; attempted to outsource the issue to China and then blame the failure on China; [and] tried to blame the Clinton administration, the administration that actually stopped plutonium production in North Korea.” The report continues by saying that during the Clinton Administration, North Korea had no plutonium, but during the Bush Administration, North Korea has at least four to six nuclear weapons worth of plutonium. [Worst Weapons in Worst Hands, The National Security Advisory Group, July 2005]

Iran And Nuclear Weapons
Iran Pursuing Nuclear Arms Program.Iran hid its nuclear program for more than a dozen years from the International Atomic Energy Agency, the nuclear monitoring arm of the United Nations, and now the United States and Europe contend that Iran is pursuing an arms program. In January of 2006, Iran restarted its effort to make atomic fuel after negotiations with Britain, France and Germany over the fate of its atomic program broke down. [New York Times, 4/28/06; New York Times, 8/7/06]

Experts Say Bush Administration Strategy Emboldened Iranian Nuclear Program. The Bush Administration refused to negotiate with Iran for years, when the country was willing to make real concessions on its nuclear program. Just after the U.S. takeover of Baghdad in 2003, Iran proposed a dialogue with the United States. According to former senior director of the National Security Council, Flynt Leverett, the offer was “a serious effort.” The Bush Administration’s refusal to enter into talks, according to Middle East expert Trita Parsi, “strengthened the hands of those in Iran who believe that the only way to compel the United States to talk is not by sending peace offers, but by being a nuisance.” [Washington Post, 6/18/06; American Prospect, June 2006]

Don't Think Your Vote Matters?
Look At The Real Stakes

Troops Dying In Iraq
Eleven US Troops Killed. "Eleven more U.S. troops were slain in combat, the military said yesterday, putting October on track to be the deadliest month for U.S. forces since the siege of Fallujah nearly two years ago. In addition, Iraqi civilians are dying at a rate of 43 a day." [AP, 9/19/06]

Despite Bush Administration's Past Rhetoric, Coalition Death Toll Has Now Topped 3,000. "Early in the Iraq conflict, Defense Secretary Donald Rumsfeld dismissed insurgents as 'dead-enders.' In 2004, President Bush said the battle against these fighters was 'turning a corner.' In 2005, he described a 'turning point,' and Vice President Dick Cheney said the insurgency was in its 'last throes.' Now, those descriptions lie buried beneath thousands of bodies -- U.S. troops, Iraqi police, and everyday citizens tortured and killed simply because of their religious sect. The U.S. death toll is well above 2,700, and the coalition death toll just passed 3,000. Last month 776 U.S. troops were wounded -- the highest number in nearly two years. There is no sign the insurgency is waning, and no evidence to suggest it will any time soon." [www.cnn.com, 10/17/06]

THE REAL STAKES: RNC AD SHOWS DESPERATE GOP

Democrats across the nation have denounced the Republican National Committee's latest fear and smear attack ad, as a desperate ploy to once again try to scare voters and distract from Republican failures on everything from the economy to the war in Iraq, their inability to handle a natural disaster, to the war on terror.

Instead of offering voters any kind of positive vision for America, the RNC released a shameful ad invoking the image of despicable terrorists to scare the American people.

THESE ARE THE REAL STAKES:

Osama bin Laden On The Loose
Bush Let Bin Laden Escape At Tora Bora. "The Bush administration has concluded that Osama bin Laden was present during the battle for Tora Bora late last year and that failure to commit U.S. ground troops to hunt him was its gravest error in the war against al Qaeda, according to civilian and military officials with first-hand knowledge. ... Afteraction reviews, conducted privately inside and outside the military chain of command, describe the episode as a significant defeat for the United States." [Washington Post, 4/17/02]

Bush Pulled Out Special Operations Troops Hunting For Bin Laden To Prepare for Iraq War. In March 2002, “Bush decided to pull out most of the special operations troops and their CIA counterparts in the paramilitary division that were leading the hunt for bin Laden in Afghanistan to prepare for war in Iraq, said Flynt L. Leverett, then an expert on the Middle East at the National Security Council.” [Washington Post, 9/10/06]

Bush Administration Closed CIA Unit Focused On Capture of bin Laden. The Central Intelligence Agency closed a unit that for a decade had the mission of hunting Osama bin Laden and his top lieutenants. The unit, known as Alec Station, was disbanded in late 2005 and its analysts were reassigned. Michael Scheuer, a former senior CIA official who was the first head of the unit, said the move reflected a mistaken view within the agency that bin Laden was no longer the threat he once was. “This will clearly denigrate our operations against Al Qaeda,” he said. “These days at the agency, bin Laden and Al Qaeda appear to be treated merely as first among equals.” [New York Times, 7/4/06]

Cargill Says Self Motivation is Key to Improved Health

Lance Cargill, R-Harrah, says that the way to improve the overall health of Oklahomans is "self- motivation with regard to physical activity" in other words, "just jog y'all." Not surprising that he would ignore more traditional and proven strategies to address this issue like research, preventive care and expanded physical and nutrition education in public schools. He somehow confuses his own personal access to and use of walking trails in Harrah with availability of childhood immunizations and access to affordable health care. But that's his Republican way, "me, myself and I" and "I got mine you get yours" which is almost as bad as believing Mary Fallin's line that a lot of those 46 million uninsured Americans choose not to have health insurance.

For more on Cargill and his Democratic challenger Abe Warren check out "On the Ballot 2006" published by the Citizens Policy Center. While you're at it, read about Cargill's involvement in the Hiett Pay to Play scandal exposed by the Oklahoma Gazette earlier this year. And for really good reading, review his ethics reports. (You'll have to type in his name.) Why would someone whose opponent has spent less than $1,000 spend close to $300,000? What's really going on here?

Voting for Brad Henry?
Yes or No?

We know that Jari Askins is voting for Brad Henry on November 7th. On today's Flashpoint program Askins asked Todd Hiett if he was voting for Henry. He refused to answer, even though his latest campaign ad touts the Henry-Hiett Budget Plan. Truth is, Hiett's a Republican of the worst, most partisan kind and he was the reason we didn't get a budget approved in regular session. So, Mr. Hiett, answer Jari Askins' question: Are you voting for Brad Henry on November 7th? Yes or No?

Hiett's Heist

On Flashpoint this morning Jimmy Todd Hiett attempted, once again, to take credit for the effective, smart work of Democrats. He and the other GOP leaders apparently cannot help themselves from helping themselves to the good work done by others.

I warned about his penchant for political thievery last year. Read our press release from June 28, 2005:

For Immediate Release
June 28, 2005

Contact: Lisa Pryor, Chair
Oklahoma Democratic Party
405.427.3366


Oklahoma Democratic Party Calls for Speaker Hiett to Stop the Deception, Play Fair with Others

OKLAHOMA CITY – To hear Republicans tell it, just about the only positive things to come out of the 2005 legislative session were Republican ideas. Nothing could be further from the truth.

To be fair, Republicans did push various initiatives that became law, but they always have. And to be truthful, it was Democrats (who still control the majority in the Senate and hold the Governor’s mansion) that wrote and guided to passage most of the legislation that Democratic Governor Brad Henry signed into law. Democratic ideas and bi-partisan compromises were prevalent throughout the 2005 legislative session, but you wouldn’t know it if you listened to the Republican noise machine.

The reality is, Democrats were responsible for much of the best legislation to come out of the Legislature in 2005, while Republicans were busy trying to take the credit. For example:

Higher Education Bond Issue: Governor Henry and House and Senate Democrats proposed the $500M bond issue to improve facilities in Oklahoma colleges and universities from the earliest days of the 2005 legislative session, while Republicans had NO plan for improving higher education. Several weeks into the session, Speaker Hiett cut $25M from the Democratic plan, added a backup revenue source and called the finished product “his” plan.

Medicaid Funding: Democrats proposed a plan to fully fund Medicaid and leverage federal dollars to provide $300 M for healthcare for Oklahoma’s neediest citizens, including children. The plan was supported by the state’s major metropolitan newspapers, hospitals, doctors and various healthcare groups. Speaker Hiett and the Republicans had NO proposal and opposed the Democratic plan. However, after constant pressure from Democrats and the public in the waning days of the session, with two days left before Sine Die adjournment, the Speaker miraculously produced “his” plan to “create sweeping reforms of Oklahoma’s broken Medicaid system.” Interestingly, “the Speaker’s plan” produced the same results in Medicaid funding as the Democratic plan he had previously opposed.

Tax Relief: Pledging to bring tax relief to working Oklahomans, Governor Brad Henry and Democratic leaders in the Senate and House announced a comprehensive plan for tax cuts (HOPE plan) and funding the EDGE research endowment at the beginning of the 2005 session. Again, Speaker Hiett refused to get on board until he forced some of his ideas into the bills. Then, in an editorial commentary published on May 16, he boasted, “This year, the new Republican majority in the State House of Representatives has passed pro-growth, pro-family legislation at a clip not seen before in our state’s history.” Trouble is, the two key measures in the Legislature’s $150 M tax reduction package (SB 435 and HB 1547) were authored in the Senate by Democrat Jay Paul Gumm. And, the bills passed with overwhelming bi-partisan support. One other thing. The Speaker’s hyperbolic habit of exaggeration and carelessness with the facts again got the better of him when he praised the bi-partisan agreement achieved on tax cuts. Said the Speaker, “It’s only right to give relief to Oklahoma taxpayers in year of a billion dollar surplus in state coffers.” In reality, the surplus for the year was only about $463.8 M, so the Speaker was only off-base by about $536 M. Makes one wonder how many other times he’s played fast and loose with the truth.

Pro-Life Legislation: On May 12, 2005, the day the House passed HB 1686 by a vote of 95-3, Speaker Hiett and his Republican colleagues held a press conference to congratulate themselves for enacting “pro-life” legislation. No Democrats were invited to attend. A press release distributed through the House Media Division stated “numerous members of the House Republican caucus are listed as authors.” Speaker Hiett exclaimed, “This is one of the most significant accomplishments for the new Republican majority in the House.” Two days before, Republican Representative Lance Cargill had announced, “In the very first session that Republicans have control of one chamber of the Legislature, we will enact meaningful legislation to protect the unborn, pregnant women, and their families. If anything, Democrats should apologize for their membership in a political party that has boldly supported abortion policies that have hurt so many women, not to mention so many innocent, unborn children.” The trouble with these wildly misleading statements is that the “pro-life” legislation they referred to was actually authored not by Republicans, but by Democratic Senator Daisy Lawler and Democratic Representative Rebecca Hamilton. Said Rep. Hamilton, “There was a genuine bi-partisan effort to pass pro-life legislation in the Senate. Unfortunately, the Republican House leadership refused bi-partisan cooperation. They did not want to allow the bill to come to a vote because it had a Democratic author. They (House Republicans) refused to do so until pro-life Democrats held a press conference publicly exposing what they were doing. The bill was placed on the agenda for a vote a couple of hours after that.” In fact, prior to sending HB 1686 to the floor for a vote, Speaker Hiett tried to strong-arm Representative Hamilton into taking her name off the bill. Representative Hamilton would not give in to the pressure and stood firm in the face of the Speaker’s pressure. Then, after the bills passed, in an editorial column distributed through the House Media Division on May 31, the Speaker had the audacity to take the credit for the Democratic-authored bills: “As the new majority party in the House, Republicans have pushed through the first significant pro-life legislation in Oklahoma in over a quarter of a century…”

Sadly, these are just a few examples of Todd Hiett’s “me first” strategy. Throughout the session he obstructed Democratic legislative proposals until he could turn them into “his” plans and grab the credit. Democrats understand that governing involves the art of compromise, sharing the credit for success and taking responsibility for failure. It’s a lesson Speaker Hiett and his Republican glory-hogs would do well to learn. And it wouldn’t hurt them to learn to tell the truth.

Endorsements

Today's Oklahoman editorial page is worth reading. In addition to op-ed columns by the two party chairs you will find positive endorsements for four Democrats in statewide races: Attorney General Drew Edmondson, State Treasurer Scott Meacham, State Superintendent Sandy Garrett, and State Insurance Commissioner Kim Holland.

We think it telling that they have no preference in the Corporation Commissioner and State Auditor and Inspector races. Interesting because they refuse to endorse long time GOP commissioner Bob Anthony and former GOP party chair Gary Jones.

We of course believe that Democrat Cody Graves is the best choice for citizens on the Corporation Commission. Graves' intellect, extensive service as Corporation Commissioner and experience in areas regulated by the Commission will serve the ratepayers of Oklahoma well. Graves' reasonable, common sense approach surpasses the department store heir's record on the board.

State Auditor and Inspector Jeff McMahan has proven to be an advocate of good government who has continually performed audits to expose waste, fraud and abuse. The Tulsa World's recent endorsement was partly based on McMahan's work recognized by national groups for Accountability and Achievement in Government. McMahan deserves four more years and has earned the respect and trust of Oklahomans.

In the Labor Commissioner race Lloyd Fields should get the people's nod on November 7th. Brenda Reneau's adoption of a proven national safety in the workplace program shows little initiative or ability on her part and certainly her support of right to work for less has done nothing to improve pay, safety, labor relations, or economic development in this state. Oklahoma needs a Labor Commissioner who will be an advocate for Labor, not a shill for broken down GOP interests.

Today's Oklahoman Op Ed

For those of you who read the Oklahoman, catch today's op ed columns from the two state party chairs. I think you'll find the contrast is striking. While I wrote about what Democrats stand for and have delivered for Oklahomans, the Republican piece was based on deceit, distortion, division, and their old standby of smear and fear. GOP chair Tom Daxon repeated the same old tired rhetoric that Republicans always use disregarding the facts.

I wasn't surprised at what Daxon wrote, I've read their tall tales many times. GOP ideas don't work for America and they aren't working in Oklahoma. So they just recycle the same old buzzwords, story lines, and fear tactics (lies) they've been using for decades.

What a surprise, one of the Republicans' favorite tactics is to blame lawyers. And Daxon did it again today. I know that facts are confusing to many Republicans but note this: lawyers don't control the Oklahoma Democratic Party, Democrats do.

The name it, claim it, blame it game practiced by the GOP is not leadership.

Anyone who is paying attention can see that the progress made in Oklahoma over the last four years is due to the strong, sensible, and honest leadership of the Senate Democrats and Democratic Governor Brad Henry working with the House of Representatives. Even more could have been done for the good people of Oklahoma but for the Republican bullies in the House.

The GOP leadership is so narrowly focused on its thirst for power and far right ideology that it has failed to truly serve the citizens. They want to take credit for progress made in our state while conveniently forgetting that none of that progress would have occurred without the leadership of Democrats in the Senate and the authority of Governor Brad Henry.

I suppose the Republicans can't help themselves, it seems that there's nothing they won't lie about. Today's fiction by the GOP chair is further evidence that Republican politicians are out of touch with reality and out of the mainstream for Oklahoma.

Off To The Races: The Home Stretch!

What a great event last night at Remington Park! We had a great turnout -- elected officials, candidates and supporters.

We're down to the home stretch with just over two weeks before election day. Our candidates are putting the final touches on their get out the vote plans and we're working hard to help them. It all comes down to the 72-hour plan and that's where the Party comes in. We will be working to get our voters to the polls in anticipation of victory for all our Democrats.

HELP WANTED IN TULSA: MAKE POLITICAL SIGNS!

SIGNS! SIGNS! SIGNS!

HELP MAKE CANDIDATES SIGNS

TRANSPORT WORKERS SIGN SHOP

11929 East Pine

Back of the Lot

Saturday, October 21

6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Drop by to help

or

Call the Sign Shop-438-8122

GOP Trick or Treat Comes Early and Often
Republican Ad: A Desperate Attempt to Scare Americans and Hide Their Failures

The Republicans latest dirty trick to play politics with national security is such act of desperation that even Former House Majority Leader Dick Armey agrees "people are embarrassed by Republicans." It is a disingenuous attempt to disguise this administration's failures. They have failed to capture or kill Osama Bin Laden. They have created more terrorists in Iraq. They have failed to implement the 9/11 recommendations. Under their watch North Korea has quadrupled its nuclear arsenal and the Taliban and Al Qaeda have become stronger in Afghanistan. This latest act of desperation reaffirms the fact that they cannot be trusted to keep America secure. Instead of stubbornly clinging to a failed policy in Iraq. The time has come for a new direction. The time has come to elect Democrats to the Congress. Oklahomans have the opportunity to elect Democrats who will make national security a top priority, not just political strategy. Check out the Oklahoma Democratic candidates for Congress at http://www.okdemocrats.org/candidates2.htm.


Terrorist attacks rise to an all time high while Republicans fail to implement 9/11 Commission Recommendations: Terrorist attacks are at record highs of over 11,000 attacks per year and have more than tripled since we went into Iraq. A report card compiled by the 9/11 Commission gave the administration a grade of D or lower on almost half of its 41 measures. [9/11 Commission, National Counterterrorism Center]



Poor planning and incompetence in Iraq create more terrorists around the world: The nation's 16 national intelligence agencies all agree. Iraq has created a "cause celebre" for Jihadists, increased terrorism and is making Americans less safe. [National Intelligence Estimate]



North Korea Quadruples nuclear arsenal and sets off a bomb: When Bush came to office North Korea had 1-2 nuclear weapons now it has as many as a dozen This is George Bush's bomb. [Washington Post, 10/9/06]



Taliban and Al Qaeda Resurgent in Afghanistan: The Bush Administration took its eye off the ball in Afghanistan and failed to capture Osama bin Laden in Tora Bora because it was moving military equipment to Iraq. Now, opium production and terrorist attacks in Afghanistan are at an all time high while the same people who attacked us five years ago are still sitting comfortably in Afghanistan and are still plotting to kill us. [ABC, 10/2/06]



The Republicans fail to make America safe at home. Five years after 9/11, Congress and the White House failed to implement legislation to protect chemical plants and transportation systems. They have also failed to dedicate funds to allow our first responders to communicate in a crisis. [Washington Post, 9/24/06]

Women Voters Will Deliver Democratic Majority

Suppose we could do something to:

• Lower the cost of health insurance and make it easier to get health care
• Increase good jobs in the U.S., and make sure women get equal pay for the work we do
• Get better education for our children, and lower the cost of college tuition
• Make sure that Social Security will be there for us when we retire
• Feel safe in our homes, our neighborhoods--and our country!

WE CAN'T DO IT ALONE--
BUT IF WE GET TOGETHER WITH OUR FRIENDS, WE CAN!
Visit the DNC's Women's Vote Center for more information.

Homecoming 2006

Tomorrow is Homecoming at OU and at OSU. Fans will line the parade routes to view the floats as the bands play and the teams prepare for the big game. Back in the old days local florists scrambled to produce oversized mum corsages with streaming ribbons of red or orange that matched the tissue paper floats carrying the homecoming royalty. Not so much now, but the idea remains evoking memories of younger years.

It's a cinch that tomorrow's events will include a full lineup of politicians in the parades. These folks, and their volunteers, have been showing up at every festival, parade, meet and greet, debate, forum, bean dinner, and pie supper for months because they want to meet the folks they represent "eye to eye" and to listen to their concerns. It's heart and soul of door to door, store to store politics. And Democrats have a whole lot of heart and soul. Their big game is November 7th. That's Homecoming for all Democrats and the way things are shaping up it looks like a lot of moderate, reasonable Republicans will be joining us this year. Our team is experienced, honest, trustworthy. They know the game, they know the players, and the know the opponents. Our team is prepared for offense and defense. Our team is ready for the big game. We are ready for Homecoming 2006!

Now, we've been talking to a lot of real people and they tell us they are tired of extreme politics, they are sick of negative attacks on good people and they will give their vote to the candidates who have earned their trust. That's why people are coming home to the Democrats. Won't you join us? Call us at 405.427.3366 for more information about the Oklahoma Democratic Party and our candidates, or visit us at www.okdemocrats.org.

President Clinton Kicks Off Campaign Tour;
He'll Make 40 Appearances in 16 States

Bill Clinton began his efforts to help Democrats take back the U.S. Congress Wednesday morning with a speech at his alma mater Georgetown University in Washington, D.C.

Below is a transcript of his speech. Not surprisingly, it's inspiring.


Mr. President, thank you for that wonderful introduction and for your leadership at Georgetown and for your commitment to the Clinton Global Initiative, and I'm grateful that you made it for more than one reason. When people come to the CGI, we tell them that they have to make a commitment of time or money, and it doesn't matter how much, but they have to promise to do something, and if they don't they can't come back next year, so I hope you'll come back next year now. (Laughter.)

I want to thank John Podesta for inviting me to speak today. He held any number of very important posts in the White House during my eight years and finished as my chief of staff. I never had a better one. He's an extraordinarily able person, and nothing much has changed: he
told me exactly what he wanted me to talk about today just like he did when I was president. (Laughter.)

There are many people in this audience today who were active in my administration, and I hesitate to mention them because I just glanced out at the crowd and I know I missed half of them, but it's worth noting because of their continuing commitment to public service. Bruce Reed, who was my domestic policy advisor just wrote a very important book with Congressman Rahm Emanuel called The Plan; Gayle Smith who worked with me on Africa, still works at the Clinton Global Initiative; P.J. Crowley; Ambassador Elizabeth Bagley; Nancy Soderberg, who was very important in our Irish peace initiative and many other national security matters; Peter Rundlet, a White House Fellow; and Bruce Lindsey who's probably been my friend longer than anybody else here, who is still the chairman of my foundation. I thank them all for being here. And Mr. President, I thank you for being here. I'm glad you've come across the water to teach at Georgetown. I'm glad to see you.

I have been asked to talk today about the common good in terms of how it affected my presidency; therefore, I will not, unless the questions arise, spend an enormous amount of time talking about the way forward, although I have views on all of that. (Laughter.) You have heard that I came here nearly 15 years ago to deliver a series of speeches outlining my philosophy of government and the ideas that I proposed to pursue if I got elected. When I gave the first speech, I believe I was still running fifth in the polls in the Democratic primary in New Hampshire, so it was probably an act of hubris, but I felt good here.


I first came to this hall 42 years ago, and I have come many times since. I love it very much. In the context of late 1991, I defined the common good as a new covenant for equal opportunity, shared responsibility, an inclusive community, and an aggressive approach to try to create those values throughout the world at the end of the Cold War. It was what I thought America should do to advance the common good - really just a restatement of what our founders pledged their lives, their fortunes, their sacred honor to: to form a more perfect union.

Given the nature of the political debate today, I think it's important to point out that that 18th century construct in 21st century language meant the following: we are not perfect, we never will be perfect, no one has the whole truth, but we can always do better. That's what a more perfect union meant: it is a permanent mission for America designed to make America a permanent work in progress.

Now, as Jack and John have said, I try to do that work as a private citizen through the foundation's work here in America and around the world on AIDS, on climate change, on economic development, and through the Clinton Global Initiative. But I know politics still matters, and I believe ideas matter. I loved the four years I spent here at Georgetown. When I wrote my memoirs, my editor made me take out several pages that I - believe it or not, as long as it was - (laughter) - several pages I'd written about Georgetown. He says, "No one will believe that you remember every professor and all these lectures and that you saved all your papers; no one will believe this. You've got to take some of this out."

I say that for all of you who are students here - say that this was seminal experience in my life coming here. The professors that I had then affected me in ways that continues in my life today. And the most important point I can make about that, for the purposes of my remarks today is that I really believed more strongly when I left here than when I came that ideas matter, that evidence matters, that thinking and reasoning matter, that ideas have consequences, and that in politics that means ideas lead to policies which have positive or negative effects in people's lives. I believed that then; I believe that now.

I believed then, based on the experiences I had here, that not everyone who disagreed with me was my enemy, that I might be wrong, that as forcefully as I pursued anything I believed in and any argument that I embraced, I had to always be willing to listen to others; and that in
the interplay - the dialectic - between my position and another, the searching for more facts, the searching for better arguments, and frankly just facing the evidence of what did and didn't work and what the consequences of various courses were, that I would come to a better place as a public official. I believed that then; I believe that now.

You heard in President DeGioia's remarks - I wonder how many college presidents even quote Latin anymore. I loved it. (Laughter.) - the same conviction.

When I gave these Georgetown speeches, they allowed me to set out this construct of equal opportunities, shared responsibilities, inclusive community, and an aggressive approach to engagement with the rest of the world. I thought that they were consistent with the traditional
American values of work and family, freedom and responsibility, faith and tolerance; that as a Democrat I was being faithful to Andrew Jackson's credo of opportunity for all and special privileges for none, to President Kennedy's call for mutual responsibly and citizen service,
and to Franklin Roosevelt's commitment to continuous innovation, to bold, persistent experimentation.

I also asked there and throughout the '92 campaign for a political debate that engaged these things, that moved away from what I then thought was an unacceptable level of partisanship and rancor and a tendency to let elections turn on issues that had nothing to do with the decisions that leaders would make after the election was over, or the consequences on ordinary people's lives - the politics of division and personal destruction.

I frequently cited in that year a book that was written that I think has special relevance today, even though for all of you 15 years is a lifetime ago. And I swear this was in my notes before I saw him in the audience, but E. J. Dionne, this distinguished columnist for The Washington Post wrote a book called Why Americans Hate Politics, and the central thesis was that Americans hate politics because it seems irrelevant to them and they feel like they're being manipulated because
they're always being asked to make false choices: you're either pro-labor or pro-business, you're pro-growth or pro-environment, you're for a strong national defense or for trying to make an agreement with everybody no matter how crazy they are - that there's always an either/or choice. And the truth is most of us don't think that way, most of us don't live our lives that way, and most of us long for a politics where we have genuine arguments, vigorous disagreements, but we don't claim to have the whole truth and we don't demonize our opponents and we're really trying to work on what works best for the American people.

Everybody knows this kind of down deep in their gut. That's why – I think that's why I've gotten such a strong response to the work I've done with former President Bush since I left office on the tsunami and on Katrina, and with former Senator Dole, who was my opponent in '96. We raised $100 million to guarantee a college education to the spouses and children of all the people killed or disabled on 9/11.

It's not that we want a bland, mushy, meaningless politics. We like our debates. The country has been well-served by its progressive and by its conservative traditions. We understand that campaigns will be heated and only one side can win, but we want it to be connected somehow to the real lives of real people, to the aspirations of ordinary Americans, to the future of our children and grandchildren.

Now, this sort of politics - striving for the common good - for me stands in stark contrast to both the political and governing philosophy of the leadership in Washington today and for the last six years. The more ideological, right-wing element of the Republican Party has been building strength, partly in reaction to things that happened 40 years ago: to Barry Goldwater's defeat, to what they saw is the excesses of the '60s. It got a lot of legs when President Reagan was elected, but this is the first time when on a consistent basis the most conservative,
most ideological wing of the Republican Party has had both the executive and the legislative branch, with a very distinct governing philosophy and a very distinct political philosophy.

Where us common-good folks favor equal opportunity and empowerment, they believe the country is best served by the maximum concentration of wealth and power in the hands of the right people - right in both senses. (Laughter.) We believe in mutual responsibility. They believe that in large measure people make or break their own lives and you're on your own. We believe in striving at least to cooperate with others because we think that there are very few problems in the world we can solve on our own. They favor unilateralism whenever possible and
cooperation when it's unavoidable.

And you may think that's laughable, but even today in the press there's a story about the administration's new policy on national security in space, which points out that 160 nations were asked to vote to begin negotiations - not to prejudge the outcome, just to begin negotiations -
on making outer space weapons-free, and the vote was 159 to 1 to do it. We were the only country that didn't do it.

I'll give you another example which has caused us a lot of problems, which I almost never read about it in the press. There is legitimate concern about the North Korean nuclear test, about what Iran's nuclear ambitions are, and neither of these problems have easy solutions now.

But our position has been weakened because for at least half - I'm sorry I don't know how many - but at least half of the last six years the administration has asked for funds to research the development of two new nuclear weapons. One, a nuclear bunker buster, even though we have
a conventional nuclear bunker buster that's quite powerful; and two, a so-called tactical battlefield nuclear weapon, which the administration admits had it been deployed - they say it's small, but had it been deployed in the Iraq conflict would have taken out 25 percent of
Baghdad.

So there is this sense that the world is divided between the good guys and the bad guys, and the good guys should have their nuclear weapons and the bad guys shouldn't. We might all feel that way, but it's a very hard argument to make.

I had an 8th grade science teacher who was one of the most physically unattractive people I ever met in my life. (Laughter.) He had thick Coke-bottle glasses and he smoked cheap cigars in a cigar holder that caused his mouth to pinch. And he had been a football coach before he
became a science teacher and he gained a little weight after he turned to science and he still wore the same clothes. (Laughter.)

Let me tell you why I said this. (Laughter.) One day in class he said to us - I was 13 at that time; 47 years ago - he said, "You won't remember anything about science in a few years, so if you don't remember anything else in class that I teach you, remember this: every day I get
up and I go to my bathroom and I wash my face, throw water in my eyes and I shave, I wipe the shaving cream off. I look in the mirror and say: Vernon, you're beautiful." And by the end of the year he was beautiful to me. I say that to remind you it is very hard to succeed inpolitics when you're telling people they're ugly all the time. You haveto oppose people who do things that are wrong, but it very hard to say there's going to be one set of rules for me and another set for everyone else.

I think the common-good approach on national security worked. It was a combination of carrots and sticks. We did have military encounters. We didn't succeed at everything we tried to do, but I think on balance the world was safer when we stopped than when we started.

Now, the same thing works in politics. I think the central challenge to American politics today is that what I would call the uncommon-good approach has been so successful. It may not be in three weeks, but it has been. We believe in a politics - us common-good folks - dominated
by evidence and argument. There is a big difference between a philosophy and an ideology, on the right or the left. If you have a philosophy, it generally pushes you in a certain direction or another, but like all philosophers you want to engage in discussion and argument. You are open to evidence, to new learning, and you are certainly open to debate the practical applications of your philosophy. Therefore, you might wind up making a principled agreement with someone with a different philosophy.

If you look at the welfare reform legislation which passed, for example, when I was president, I veto the first two bills because they took away the guarantee of food and medicine for poor people. When those things were put back in, I signed it. Some people who shared my philosophy did disagree with my decision because they said that we shouldn't have a hard and fast requirement for people on welfare who were able-bodied to work. I disagreed. I thought work was the best social program and I thought it would help to overcome a lot of the pathologies in the families of poor people. And I also think you should never patronize
the poor: they're basically as smart as the rest of us without the same breaks. So I thought that.

So we had a conservative idea in welfare reform: if you can work, you've got to go to work. But in addition to that, we had - one of the reasons that it worked is that there was a huge increase and support for people to go to work, a huge increase in child care, a huge increase in transportation assistance - a lot of these people didn't have cars – a huge increase in worker training and support and other things that were essential. In other words, because we had a philosophical debate with plenty of politics and two vetoes, we had a creative tension which led
us to a dynamic center - not a mushy center, a dynamic center that worked.

The problem with ideology is, if you've got an ideology, you've already got your mind made up. You know all the answers, and that makes evidence irrelevant and argument a waste of time, so you tend to govern by assertion and attack. The problem with that is: that discourages thinking and gives you bad results.

This new Bob Woodward book, State of Denial, is well named, but I think it's important to point out that if you're an ideology, denial is an essential part of your political being - whichever side. Listen to me. You've got to - because if you're an ideologue, you've got your mind made up, so when an inconvenient fact pop up, you have to be in denial. It has to be a less significant fact.
Ron Suskind wrote a related book called The One Percent Solution. I don't know if any of you read that. He also co-wrote former Bush Treasury Secretary Paul O'Neill's memoirs. But the most interesting thing to me in this One Percent Solution is not the part that people have talked about - about 9/11 - that - no one - I don't know whether that's true or not, but Mr. Suskind says in The One Percent Solution that the ideologues within the current government refer to people not just like me, although I'm included, but even moderate Republicans like Colin Powell and Admiral Scowcroft as somehow lesser political mortals because we are trapped in, quote, "the reality-based world." (Laughter.) And what they mean by that - in fairness to them, what they
mean by that is that we are an empire, we're the world's only military superpower, and if - you can use power to change reality. And if you don't see that, then you will always be condemning your country to a lesser status.

When I was a kid, I grew up in an alcoholic home. I spent half my childhood trying to get into the reality-based world and I like it here. (Laughter, applause.) People ask me all the time, "What great new idea did you and Bob Rubin bring to economic policymaking in Washington?" I
say, "You know, Rubin came down and he put all that sort of fancy Goldman-Sachs-type spin on what we were doing, but the truth is all we brought to Washington was arithmetic." (Laughter.) I had this dumb idea that if two and two four in Little Rock, it probably was in Washington. (Laughter.) And sure enough, it turned out to be right.

Now, we're all laughing here, but I'm laughing to make - I want you to laugh so I can make a point. This is not about conservative or liberal philosophies. You can argue whether on problem X or Y or Z you need more or less government. You can argue whether you get more growth from stimulating the business side of things or training workers better. You can have an argument about trade, about whether you should be more protectionist or more free trade, or you need what I think: trade plus labor and environmental standards to lift everybody around the world.

You can have these arguments, but in every case the evidence is relevant. In every case, the act of entering into a conversation with someone else and listening to what they have to say means that you know you might not be right about everything. You might have something to learn. There might be an ongoing process in which when you put all these perspectives together you come out with something that will actually move the ball forward toward a more perfect union, that will actually make lives better for ordinary Americans.

I believe while much has changed in the last 15 years - the acceleration to an interdependent global economy based on information technology is more apparent. It's clearer than it was then that we're all vulnerable to terror, to weapons of mass destruction, to climate change. Much has changed, but that has not changed. The relentless search for the common good - to devise policies that promote equal opportunity, shared responsibility, and inclusive community - is still relevant to the present day. And to have a politics that celebrates our partisan differences, loves our brawling debates, but has just enough humility to know that we all might be wrong and that we have something to learn from one another, I believe that is still relevant. And I believe that you can make a compelling case that it works.

For me, the ultimate test is not whether the intellectual architecture of my view as opposed to the view of those that are running things now is more pristine and less messy, but whether people are going to be better off when you quit than when you started. So these common-good
philosophies - when I was president, we had 22.9 or 22.8 million new jobs: 50 percent more in our eight years than in the previous 12 years, and the ratio will be better compared to the subsequent eight years. More important to me, based on what President DeGioia said about the
percentage of low-income people getting four-year college degrees, 100 times as many people moved out of poverty in our eight years as in the previous 12 years - 100 times. That was policy for the common good.

What were these policies? Well, we changed the Community Reinvestment Act, which requires federally-insured banks to invest in their communities. $800 billion was invested under those provisions in those eight years. That was 95 percent of all the money ever invested under the Community Reinvestment Act, which was passed in the 1970s. Just one example - something people don't even know about, something we did by executive order, but it was a common-good philosophy and it turned out to be good for the banks, too.

The empowerment zones, the enterprise communities, all the urban development initiatives, the welfare reform initiatives I talked to you about. When we passed the budget in 1993, it was passed by one vote in a strict party line vote, one vote in both houses. It raised taxes on
upper-income people, raised the gas tax 4.3 percent as I remember, and cut taxes on lower-income working families. Fifteen times as many people got a tax cut as a tax increase. We doubled the Earned Income Tax Credit. That alone took over 2 million children out of poverty.
When we raised the minimum wage, it lifted the earnings of 10 million people. And I tried to do it twice, and we haven't done it since. We provided more healthcare options for low-income families. We had the biggest expansion in healthcare coverage since Medicaid in the '60s with
the Children's Health Insurance Program. We had the biggest increase in college aid sine the G. I. Bill at the end of World War II: ten million more people were getting college assistance through tax credits or Pell grants or work-study programs than when we started. There was – average hourly wages actually went up in my second term as against inflation for the first time since 1973. Now, the number of people without health insurance went down.

I won't - I could keep you here all day talking about other statistics, but the point is this works - a focus on the common good. It turns out to be good. We had more millionaires and billionaires than ever before, but the biggest income gains percentage-wise were in the bottom quintile. It works. It's good for everybody.

And it's more important now than ever because whenever an economic paradigm changes there is anyway a concentration of wealth in the beginning. When we moved from factory to farm and people had to come into the cities to make a living and we had this huge (wave?) of immigrants around the turn from the 19th to the 20th century – people coming here looking for these jobs - there was a yawning increase in inequality. It always happens when you change the economic paradigm. If you have a government committed to the common good, a politics committed to the common good, you try to sand the rough edges off of that so you can keep the economy growing but you can lift everybody up and they can all be part of it.

As far as I can determine, these last five years have been the first time since economists have been keeping the figures when we've had five years of economic growth, five years of productivity increase in the workforce, a 40-year high in corporate profits, CEO executive pay
averaging 369 times the pay of people in the companies, and average wages are flat or declining. Last year, 2005, for the top 1 percent of Americans income increased 12.5 percent; for the bottom 99 percent, 1.5 percent, which means for the bottom half it was flat or negative. Now, I don't think that's very good. I don't think that's a common-good policy. And I believe that we can do better than that, and we should.

To achieve the common good, you have to believe in equal opportunity. I also believe it was inconsistent with the common good to give me - and I love saying this - I never had any money till I left the White House and now I'm one of those really important people. I'm a millionaire. I'm the - I get more help from the federal government than anybody. (Laughter.) But I think it was inconsistent with the common good to give me five tax cuts and cut college aid at a time when the cost of a college education is going through the roof. Go figure. I'd rather them - because I'm a common-good sort of guy and because I don't need another home - (laughter) - or another car or another vacation, they should have kept my money and put it into making it possible for more people like you to go to college. That's what I believe.

I think it was a mistake to give me a tax cut and cut funding for after-school programs for poor kids. We know this works to increase academic achievement and to reduce the drop-out rate. We know it does. We were given no support to that - the federal government - till my second term, but when I left we were supporting 1.3 million people.

With evidence that the crime rate is going up in some places (and tensions?), I think it was a mistake to give me five tax cuts and get rid of the COPS program, which put over 100,000 police officers on the street. I don't think it's consistent with the common good.

We keep being told we can't afford to implement the recommendations of the 9/11 Commission, but last year the number one priority in Congress or in this Congress that's just finished was giving further estate tax relief to about 8,000 families at a cost of $250 billion over ten years.
At $25 billion a year, that's several times what it would cost to restore the cuts in college aid, the cuts in after-school programs, and implement the 9/11 Commission's recommendations.

Now, if you believe in the concentration of wealth and power and you believe that money in the hands of the right people will spark an economic renaissance in America, you embrace that. If you believe in the common good, you think we all ought to kick in a little.

I'll give you a tougher example. I was often criticized by people in my own party, by liberals, for being so tight-fisted and insisting on running a balanced budget and trying to get a surplus because they said, you know, it only matters if the deficit is a small percentage of the
GDP. Who cares? And if you'd spend this money we could spend even more kids to college. We could provide even more healthcare. We could do even better. So I was criticized, if you will, to my left. My reasoning was twofold: one is if you get the deficit down and keep it down interest rates will be so low you'll be giving another couple thousand dollars a year to working middle-class families; and two, the baby-boomers are fixing the retire and they will impose a great burden on society when they quit working. So if we were running a surplus for several years and paying down our debt, we would stabilize Social Security by putting the interest savings into the Social Security Trust Fund and have the funds necessary to meet whatever healthcare challenge
was there, but that's a common good theory. And again, people can argue whether I was right or wrong, but I believe it was right.

Now we have added about $3 trillion to the national debt and we have a trade deficit annually that's more than twice as a big as the budget deficit. And I think there's another common good question: is it in the interest of the common good for the United States to borrow money every
day from China, Japan, South Korea, Saudi Arabia, and the United Kingdom to finance my tax cut and our soldiers in Iraq and Afghanistan? And that's what we do. We basically knock on the door of these banks every day and say - this is a weekday, we'll say, can you give us a little
more money to pay for Bill Clinton's tax cut and our soldiers and Afghanistan and Iraq? We don't use those words, but that's what it is. And we say, "Our kids will pay you back."

Now, to me that's not consistent with the common good. Our tenth biggest creditor - do you know who our tenth biggest creditor is? Mexico. So we're having all these big debates now about immigration, but we know - whatever you think should be done there, and I have my own
views, but we know one thing: the overwhelming majority of these poor Mexicans that pour across the Rio Grande River wherever they can get across every day are coming to this country because they can make more money here, and they send a bunch of their money home to their mothers and fathers and their children. Whatever you think about it, no one disputes that, right? So it seems to me like it'd be a better deal if the Mexicans kept their money, invested it in their own people, gave them a good education, and gave them a good chance to have a decent job. Even the Chinese have enormous problems in rural areas where I work with AIDS problems in trying to stabilize the economy of rural areas, keep everybody from moving to the cities, and manage their growth.

There was a story in the paper yesterday that said they're about to get a trillion dollars in cash money - the Chinese. Forty-five percent of our debt is now held by people who are non-Americans. One country alone could (crater?) the currency. So I was a big free-trader and a lot of people thought that was inconsistent with the common good, but I did believe in enforcing our agreements. There are only 20 percent as many trade enforcement actions taken today as there were when I was president. Part of the reason is that a lot of our trade disputes are
with the Chinese and they're our banker. When is the last time you got tough on your banker? (Laughter.)

The point I want to make is, you don't have to agree with me about any of this, but we should solve this problem based on what we think is the common good. I do not think it makes any sense to borrow money to pay my tax cut and ask my daughter's generation to pay it off. I don't
think it's good economics today or good economics tomorrow. And I think it is a big gamble to say that everybody will always have to pay our debt. But we don't talk about it in these terms. I haven't heard anybody say - actually get up and explain to the American people how we finance our deficits. From whom do we get the money? What are the consequences? What are the alternatives?

So as you think about not only this election year, but you - all of you are students or you think about your future: whether you're a Republican or a Democrat or an independent, whether you consider yourself a traditional liberal or a conservative, I ask you to remember the tradition that you learned here. This is a religious institution that believes in the life of the mind. This is a Jesuit institution representing an order which for hundreds of years now has been legendary for developing people's intellectual capacities. The man who taught me comparative religions when I was at Georgetown, popularly known as Buddhism for Baptists (laughter), Father Joseph Sebes (ph) gave - we had 204 people in the class: he gave oral examinations to the non-American
students who didn't comfortable writing their exam questions in nine languages. We had a Hungarian economics professor when I was here named Joseph Sarini (ph) that made everybody sit in an assigned seat till Thanksgiving, took roll every day, then you could sit wherever you
wanted. And at the end of the second semester - not the first, the second semester - a friend of mine and I were walking up to him and he said, "Father, I think I'm going to have trouble on the final." And he looked at him and he said, "What do you expect? You missed three classes." (Laughter.) He kept roll in his head from people not sitting in assigned seats for a whole semester and he had 200 kids in five classes.

In other words, what does this mean? It means these deeply religious people believed, as all religious people do of whatever faith, that there is a truth, but they believe life was a journey toward it. And they believed in the most humbling possible way in the relentless search to develop the mind that God had given them to the maximum possible degree to aid in the search. But they knew no matter how smart they were, no matter how many students they remembered, no matter how many languages they spoke, they would never be in full possession of the truth, much less be able to turn it into a political program that was absolutely true that you were somehow less human if you did not embrace. And so they created this university and so many like it to help people in their journey in life.

And they, like the Founders from a much more secular point of view, did so because they realized that what we have in common is more important than our interesting differences. I try always to mention in every speech I give now that when the human genome was sequenced, the most
interesting finding to me was that all human beings are genetically more than 99.9 percent the same, yet all of us spend over 90 percent of our lives - I no less than anyone else - thinking about that one-tenth of 1 percent: I'm older, I'm younger, I'm taller, I'm shorter, I'm smarter, I'm richer, I'm poorer, I'm this and that or the other thing. If you think about the way we organize our lives, it's all about that one-tenth of 1 percent. All the common good is a reaffirmation of the fact that in the end in order for your one-tenth of 1 percent to flower - to
amount to a hill of beans - you have to give others the same chance; that the 99.9 percent is ultimately more important and without tending to that, you can't possibly unleash the one-tenth of 1 percent.

Does this answer everything we should do in Iran or what we should do now in Iraq or exactly how we should move to universal coverage and stop spending 50 percent more than any other country and insuring 16 percent fewer people? No. And healthcare - it doesn't answer all those things, but it will put you on the right road. I know it will because it worked for us. Did we make mistakes when I was president? Sure. Did everything we try work? No. But on balance people were way better off when we stopped than when we started.

Why? Because of the commitment to equal opportunity, shared responsibility, and an inclusive community - the basic building blocks of the common good. I long for the day when my party does not represent both the progressive and the conservative strains in the search for the common good, but we do today. We are the conservative party on the budget, on natural resources, on military resources; and the progressive party on the minimum wage, on healthcare, on education. I long for the day when we will return to a debate that is not about who is a good
person and who is a slug, not about who represents the religious truth and who is basically running for office on his or her way to hell. (Laughter.) You laugh, but you know I'm telling you the truth. (Laughter.)

I long for the day when Republicans and Democrats will sit around and have these raucous, exciting arguments and actually love learning from one another, and when we create the common good out of a dynamic center. It works. You can just look at the evidence and compare it to what went before and what happened after. Ideological, divisive, demonizing, distracting politics - they may be very good for an election, particularly when people feel unsettled and insecure, but they don't do much to advance the common good.

So whatever your politics are, I hope that throughout your life you will try to advance it because that's what our founders told us to do, and they turned out to be pretty smart. They figured it out more than two centuries before the scientists discovered that we are 99.9 percent the same.

Thank you very much.

Bush Loses His Grip on Iraq

Today, as President Bush campaigns for Don Sherwood in Pennsylvania, Iraq is deteriorating. By hitting the campaign trail when he should be tackling the bruising situation in Iraq, the President has demonstrated that he's losing his grip. It's time for a new direction.

• 11 US Soldiers Killed in Iraq. "At least 11 more U.S. troops were killed in the unyielding violence across Iraq that forced the U.S. military yesterday to throw out its strategic playbook in order to stop revenge killings north of Baghdad. Ten Army troops and a Marine died in combat, including four soldiers killed by a roadside bomb west of Baghdad, to bring the U.S. death toll to 70 this month." [New York Daily News, 10/19/06]

• October on Track to Be Deadliest Month in Two Years. "With nearly four troops killed daily, October is on a pace to be the bloodiest month of the war since 137 died in November 2004." [New York Daily News, 10/19/06]

• Maj. Gen. William B. Caldwell Said the Bid to Secure Baghdad Has Not Met Expectations. "In Baghdad, Operation Together Forward has made a difference in the focus areas but has not met our overall expectations in sustaining a reduction in the level of violence." [AP, 10/19/06]

• Despite the Second Baghdad Security Initiative, Attacks Have Recently Increased by 22%. "Attacks in the Baghdad area went up 22 percent during the first three weeks of Ramadan in comparison with the three weeks before, an increase General Caldwell called "disheartening.'" [New York Times, 10/19/06]

• President Agrees Situation in Iraq is Similar to Tet Offensive. "In an interview last night on ABC's 'World News with Charles Gibson,' President Bush said it's possible Iraq is undergoing the equivalent of the 1968 Tet offensive in Vietnam - which weighed heavily in the U.S. decision to withdraw. 'He could be right,' Bush said of the Tet comparison, made yesterday by New York Times columnist Thomas Friedman." [New York Daily News, 10/19/06]

• Militias Splintering Into Radicalized, Independent Cells. "The fragmentation poses new obstacles to U.S. and Iraqi forces trying to quell the sectarian strife that U.S. commanders fear could plunge the nation into civil war. Militias have already replaced the Sunni Arab insurgency as the biggest challenge to U.S. efforts to bring stability to Iraq. Senior U.S. military officials privately acknowledge they do not have the manpower to conduct urban sweeps in every neighborhood or prevent areas they have cleared from again becoming havens of lawlessness and killing." [Washington Post, 10/19/06]

• Currently, there are 144,000 Troops in Iraq. Currently, there are 144,000 U.S. service men and women in Iraq, the vast majority of them Army. This is an increase from 126,900 in June of this year. [Brookings Iraq Index, p. 20, 10/12/06]

• 43% Increase in Attacks on U.S. Military and Iraqi Police. According to the U.S. military there has been a 43 percent increase in attacks on U.S. and Iraqi forces in Bagdhad since midsummer as casualties among Iraqi troops and civilians are soaring far higher than at any previous time in the war [Washington Post, 10/19/06]

• The Civil War Has Reached New Levels. 767 Iraqis have been killed so far in October, nearly double the average number. 45 Iraqis have died everyday this month putting it on pace to be the deadliest month for Iraqi civilians since the war began. More than a million people have either fled the country or been forced to move. [AP, 10/17/06]

Meet and Greet Pictures



I just wanted to share a few of the pictures from House District 99 Candidate Anastasia Pittman's Meet and Greet

What's the Matter With Kansas? Nothing Anymore!

On November 7, nine former Republicans will run as Democrats for statewide office in Kansas. Why? To quote the former Kansas GOP chair, who is running as a Democrat for Lt. Governor: "I want to work on relevant issues and not on a lot of things that don't matter."

The Republican Party is out of touch across this nation, focusing on wedge issues to drive people apart rather than solving the problems we face.

Click here to read the entire Washington Post article.

Carry the battle to them. Don't let them bring it to you. Put them on the defensive and don't ever apologize for anything.
-Harry S. Truman

Highlights of New NBC/WSJ poll include:

- 16% approve of the job Congress is doing and 75% disapprove.
- Control of Congress: 37% said Republicans and 52% say Democrats.

VIDEO of Tim Russert interview on NBC Tonight:
http://www.shadowtv.com/redirect/notification.jsp?vid=8d47690c33efcc5df559d68873d5f1ab



TRANSCRIPT:

ANCHOR BRIAN WILLIAMS: Joining us for that is moderator of "meet the press" Tim Russert. Start us off with the president's approval.

TIM RUSSERT: Only 38% of Americans give president bush a positive job approval. 57% Disapprove. There is an increase in anxiety over the war in Iraq. Are you more optimistic about the war in Iraq, 20% and less optimistic, 68%. In June we asked that same question and it was 45 and 44.

WILLIAMS: With the war looming and with the elections coming up there's been a lot of other issues out there. The Foley congressional page scandal and Bob Woodward book. How is it all playing out?

RUSSERT: People have paid attention. This is how they responded. Are you more fafrle to keeping the republicans in control, 14% and less favorable, 47% and look at this number, Brian. Job approval for Congress, 16% approve of the job congress is doing and 75% disapprove. Compare that to October 1994, congress had a 24% job approval.

WILLIAMS: On this final question about how people plan to vote I know the answer is also a history

RUSSERT: It is a generic question maker. This is what we found. 37% Said republicans and 52% say democrats. It is the highest disparity since we have found since the beginning of this poll and certainly since 1994 and just a month ago there was a nine-point spread. Back in 1994 the republican his a six point advantage going into that election in November of 1994. The democrats have three times that. Republicans are very, very nervous tonight.

WILLIAMS: Numbers are on the move in the days ticking down to the election. Thanks for joining us tonight with that.

Baghdad Strategy Not Working, U.S. General Says;
Follows British General's Call to Withdraw

News from Iraq this morning is only getting worse. So far in October, 73 American soldiers have been killed.

Just last week, a British general said he believed his troops should be withdrawn from the nation as it falls into civil war.


October surprise, or more of the same? The Bush Administration and the rubber-stamp, Republican-led want to stay the course. That means more Americans dead in a war we should never have started.

Click here for the complete news article.

Hal Spake Endorsed by National Magazine

The November issue of Esquire magazine weighs in on the 2006 elections and Oklahoma Democrats come out ahead.

Oklahoma, District 4
Tom Cole (R)
Hal Spake (D)
Tom Cole placed all his chips in the Bush basket, serving as RNC chief of staff in 2000 and, infamously, calling a Bush loss a bin Laden victory in 2004. He deserves to get the chop--a judgment made easier by the shining credentials and democratic (small d) principles of his opponent, Hal Spake.
Esquire endorses: Spake

Duck and Cover:
Republican Candidate for OK Education Superintendent Hunts Textbooks

You may have heard that Bill Crozier, Republican of Union City who is running against Sandy Garrett, believes school children should be required to wear backpacks filled with text books to protect them from school shootings.

Click here to see actual video of Crozier hunting text books.

National Magazine Endorses Dr. Hunter

Esquire magazine's November issue takes a position on every national race in the country. Here's what they have to say about Dr. Hunter and his opponent:

OK-5
Mary Fallin (R)
David Hunter (D)
Fallin is a family-values mouth-piece and little more. Her opponent, surgeon David Hunter, is new to politics but sounds like a pro. Informed, measured, and realistic, he possesses qualities sorely lacking in Congress right now.
Esquire endorses: Hunter

America was not built on fear. America was built on courage, on imagination and an unbeatable determination to do the job at hand.
-Harry S. Truman

New Polling Shows Democrats Widening Their Lead

NPR released a new poll today that shows even more Americans are preparing to vote for Democrats on election day, Nov. 7. In fact, 51% said they'd support the Democratic candidate and only 40% said they would vote for the Republican. Fully 64% of voters think the country is on the wrong track and 56% disapprove of Bush's performance in office.

Click here for the complete poll results.

Where Have All the "W"s Gone?

Is it just me or are those obnoxious "W" decals disappearing? In my daily commute up I35 there are fewer and fewer of the decals and certainly the BushCheney bumper stickers are now nearly obsolete. At our office we're getting calls daily for Democratic bumper stickers. We often have calls for the Had Enough? Vote Democratic ones, and then there's one of my personal favorites, You Voted for Bush? How Embarassing. We can't keep a supply of Christian and Democrat. I tell you, people have had enough of the extremist ideology that practices fear and smear. People are ready for real solutions and real leadership to real problems. People are sick and tired of bumper sticker political rhetoric masquerading as public policy. This is not my imagination, the President's approval rating in Oklahoma is under the breakeven point and shows no sign of any significant comeback. Check out the most recent SurveyUSA poll showing Bush at 51% disapproval. One local GOP candidate, who at one time, hitched his political wagon to Bush, is now claiming BFF status with Democrat Governor Brad Henry! Yeah, right.

Report on Imprisoned Republican Rep. Randy "Duke" Cunningham Spells Out His Corruption

Another October surprise hit the books Tuesday night when the final report on Duke Cunningham's graft -- $2 million in bribes from defense contractors while serving on the appropriations committee -- was made public.

Cunningham, Republican of California, is currently serving an eight-year prison sentence for bribery. We knew he was corrupt, but now we know the details. Apparently several staff members objected to his activities.

This report is just another black mark on the Republican Party, who, three weeks before Election Day, are trying to contain the damage from accusations that former Rep. Mark Foley, Republican of Florida, made inappropriate sexually explicit remarks in e-mail messages to Congressional pages. There's also the Jack Abramoff scandal, and don't forget the occupation of Iraq...

Republicans Cut and Run From Several Losing Campaigns

Talk about cutting and running. The GOP pulled their financial support from Sen. Mike DeWine of Ohio this week because he's about to lose his seat to Democrat Sherrod Brown. They need the money elsewhere to prop up other losing Republicans like Sen. George Allen in Virginia, who is now tied with Democrat Jim Webb.

Keep it up Democrats!

Read the article here.

America's #1 Populist Jim Hightower and Hal Spake Putting the Party Back Into Politics

You are invited to an event Wednesday at the Cleveland County Fairgrounds, Norman, with Jim Hightower on behalf of the Hal Spake for Congress campaign. For details go to http://halspake.com/hightower.pdf

McCurtain County Democrats Online

Joyce McCombs, McCurtain County Democratic Party Chair, announced yesterday that the group has launched a web page at www.mccurtaincountyview.com.

Access the McCurtain County Democrats by clicking on the logo on the right sidebar or just click here.

Governor Brad Henry recently visited with McCurtain County Democrats at an event in Idabel. Joyce McCombs, left, and Betty Pollard, right, attended the event to honor Governor Henry.

Latimer County Chili and Democrats

Latimer County Democratic Party Chair Steve Brinlee invites you to join the Latimer County Democrats for a free bowl of chili and a political rally October 30th at 6 p.m. at the Choctaw Community Center in Wilburton.

Steve has invited the statewide candidates and the local Democratic candidates to speak. For directions call Steve Brinlee at 918.448.2104.

Every Voter Counts 2006


The DNC/Oklahoma Project staff would like to thank all the counties that participated in the every voter counts 2006; We would like to see all the counties working to get out the vote on Election Day. If you need help in your county With your GOTV plans, please contact; Courtney Ruark, or Teresa Hill at (405) 427-3366

Jason McCarty, Teresa Hill, Courtney Ruark and Kitty Asberry are all working together to spread the word about the Oklahoma Democratic Vision. The six points are: Honest Leadership, Real Security, Energy Independence, Economic Prosperity, & Educational Excellence, A healthcare System that Works for Everyone and Retirement Security.

Talking Points: October 16

Key Point: Bush Republicans have failed. Iraq is in civil war. Iran is going nuclear. North Korea is testing nuclear weapons. America is less safe. Now Republicans think smears are a substitute for solutions, but the American people know it's time for a new direction.




The GOP Smear Machine

Bush Republicans have no ideas for the economy, no solutions in Iraq, and nothing but excuses for their failures.

With Americans facing a historic choice, Democrats have a comprehensive agenda for the future. Republicans have almost $100 million in attack ads.

It's time for accountability in Washington. Republicans try to talk tough, but they can't get the job done-and it's nobody's fault but their own.

This country deserves leaders who will fight for every American. Democrats are fighting to take this country in a new direction.


Iraq

Iraq is in civil war. The intelligence community knows it, the military knows it, and the American people know it. Only the White House is stuck in a state of denial.

The intelligence community says Iraq makes terrorism worse. Even some top Republicans say we need to change course. It is time for a new direction.

America deserves better than leaders who talk tough but don't act smart. Democrats have the tough AND smart policies to give the American people the real security they deserve.

North Korea

North Korea is building bombs with weapons-grade plutonium made on President Bush's watch. This is George W. Bush's bomb. His North Korea policy is a failure.

The Bush Administration wants to blame anyone else for their own failures. They've had six years. They ARE the previous Administration.

In Iraq, Iran, Afghanistan, and North Korea, Bush Republicans have failed. It's time they stop pointing fingers and start protecting America.

The Bush Administration must finally get off the sidelines, rally the international community, and come up with a winning strategy to address the North Koreans.

Daily Oklahoman: Democrats criticize Republican's claim

State Democrats criticized Republican Rep. Randy Terrill this week for saying on his Web site that he worked "to pave the way for the National Weather Center to be constructed in Norman." Lisa Pryor, the Oklahoma Democratic Party chairman, said Terrill should not take credit for the new weather center because he was not in the Legislature when the bill creating the center was approved in 2002.

Terrill, who represents Moore and parts of Norman, first was elected to the House in 2004.

"That statement is a bald- faced lie," Pryor said.



Terrill said he did not write the exact language on this Web site and is in the process of retooling his entire site. But he said he has been on record even before he was in the Legislature of being supportive of the weather center and has supported an annual appropriation to the University of Oklahoma to fund the center.

"It is sad and unfortunate that Lisa Pryor and the Democratic Party has resorted to nasty personal attacks, which are clearly an attempt to bolster the desperate and failing campaign of my opponent," Terrill said.

Terrill's opponent, Democrat Troy Green, said he thinks "it is a shame somebody has to stoop to that to try to win people over."

Go for Green

HD 53 Democratic candidate Troy Green is making forward progress in his challenge to unseat Republican incumbent Randy Terrill. A story in last week's Daily Oklahoman, initiated by a press release from our office, puts a fine point on Terrill's willingness to exaggerate his accomplishments and involvements in the district. Read our release here. Read the DOK version here. Seems that Terrill is most interested in self-promotion and not the good people of the district. More than one voter in my neighborhood has told me that Terrill is aggressive, to the point of being a bully and now we've found him lying about his achievements.

Voters DO HAVE a CHOICE in this election and for good government, for integrity, honesty and discipline, voters must elect Troy Green. To help Troy in his efforts you can now make a secure online contribution at www.active.com\donate\troy2006.

I couldn't believe my ears.

I caught most of the discussion between Dr. David Hunter and "Million Dollar" Mary Fallin in KFOR's Flashpoint this morning. Out of the blue, Mary Fallin shared her expertise about the health care crisis facing Americans.

"Some of these people," she said, "choose not to have health insurance." That's a paraphrase, actually - I'll have to listen to the playback at www.kfor.com, but that's what I heard her say.

As Dr. Hunter responded - I think he was stunned by what she'd said - that's a very very small percentage of people. I remember one of them. Rush Limbaugh. I once heard him talking about how much easier it was to simply go in to the doctor and pay cash for a doctor's visit, and not mess with the paperwork of filing insurance claims and deductibles and all those nuisances. Of course, that was before he got caught doctor-shopping and abusing prescriptions. Yeah, that's a great role model on which to base a health care policy.

The truth is, too many American's don't have health care because they can't afford it. It's not a question of choice for most Oklahomans, but a question of affordability and availability. That shows how out of touch Mary Fallin is with the real problems facing voters. She's been on the public dole for the past sixteen years, and thinks people without health insurance choose to do without. When they need health care, it becomes an unfunded burden on the system. That's not the best way to operate. Dr. David Hunter will bring a wealth of expertise on this issue to Congress, and is the right choice for the Fifth District November 7.

Best,
Walt

Epic 2014

If you are reading this blog you are already interested in personal journalism, politics and news. For an interesting take on future packaging of politics and news view Epic 2014 at http://www.robinsloan.com/epic/.

Osage County Democratic Homecoming
By Mack Miller, CD 3 Chairman

The Osage County Democrats held a `Democratic Homecoming' Saturday evening at the Osage County Fairgrounds. The large building was nearly full with attendance estimated at close to 200.

Everyone enjoyed charcoaled hamburger and hotdogs with all the trimmings as well as homemade deserts.

Osage County Democratic Party Chair Larry Stewart was the MC for the evening. Larry welcomed everyone and introduced the current county Democratic elected officials as well as several former county Democratic officials, along with a Pawnee County Commissioner.

3rd District Democratic Party Chair Mack Miller was present and presented a plaque to Senator J. Berry Harrison. The plaque is for Senator Harrison's 16 years of dedicated service. He is being forced out of the senate by term limits. Senator Harrison spoke to the large group after the presentation.

Chair Stewart then introduced the following statewide elected officials and candidates who were allowed to speak: Lt. Governor Candidate Jari Askins, Attorney General Drew Edmondson, State Insurance Commissioner Kim Holland, State Auditor & Inspector Jeff McMahan, Labor Commissioner Candidate Lloyd Fields, and Corporation Commissioner Candidate Cody Graves. 3rd District Congressional Candidate Sue Barton spoke immediately following the statewides.

Representative Joe Sweeden then spoke to the group as he is the Democratic Candidate for SD10 who is running for Senator Harrison's seat. Also speaking were HD 37 Candidate Toby BigHorse as well as HD36 Candidate Joe Vickers.

Several items were auctioned off that had been donated and the proceeds went to the Osage County Democratic Party. Chair Stewart gave his closing remarks thanking everyone for coming and urged everyone to have a safe trip home!

On The Ballot 2006

The Citizens Policy Center released a comprehensive guide to candidates and issues this week. "On The Ballot 2006" is available in pdf format at www.citizenspolicycenter.org under New Publications. The document is 295 pages of information keyed to candidates for the state house and state senate. Candidate bios and responses are thorough and provide the in-depth information voters need to make informed decisions. If you don't have time to read the whole guide, check out your local candidates and read the executive summaries.

The forward includes the following promise:
"You can trust that the information in this publication is objective, truthful and credible. We don’t believe in pushing candidates to answer subjective questions to promote a particular legislative agenda. We do believe in transparency, straight answers and the power of our citizens to make smart choices at the polls."

The guide will be followed up by an Opportunity Index that will analyze legislators' voting records on health, education and economic development issues.

Tulsa World Endorses Steve Gallo, HD 23

For Steve Gallo
Newcomer best choice in House District 23

By World's Editorial Writers
10/14/2006

Voters in House District 23 in east Tulsa have a chance to send a strong voice to Oklahoma City on Nov. 7 by electing Democrat Steve Gallo to the post.

Gallo is taking on incumbent Sue Tibbs, who has held the seat since 2000.

While Tibbs' legislative career has not been alarmingly unsatisfactory, the district could have more effective representation. An outgoing and energetic schoolteacher who works with children at a local shelter, Gallo certainly could provide that.

Tibbs, 71, and Gallo, 35, both are from Tulsa and are familiar with their district. Gallo, in fact, still lives in the home where he grew up.

A former Marine, Gallo graduated from East Central High School and has a bachelor's degree in education from Oklahoma State University. He currently is working to finish his law degree at the University of Tulsa College of Law.

He is employed with Tulsa Public Schools and is assigned to work with at-risk youth at the Laura Dester Youth Shelter. It takes a special individual to want to work with these children, most of whom will be at the shelter only a matter of days. His willingness to take on such difficult demands surely suggests Gallo has the mettle to work in the legislative arena.

Gallo clearly has done his homework on the issues and shows he can work to achieve thoughtful, reasonable resolutions. Being a teacher, it is not surprising he understands the importance of education to children and the state's future.

"Oklahoma's hard-working parents should know their children are in excellent schools -- mediocrity is unacceptable. Education is the key to more and better opportunities for all Oklahomans. It's simple, great schools will attract great jobs. Excellence in education is a solution to most of Oklahoma's pressing problems," he states in his campaign material.

Gallo decries the squabbling that dominated the last legislative session, contending that education and infrastructure have been hurt by the bickering.

He supports more scholarship programs for Oklahoma students and ensuring that early childhood education programs ultimately are available to all Oklahoma children who need them.

Gallo is one of the refreshing new candidates who exhibit energy, earnestness and dedication in both their professional lives and their public pursuits. He would be an effective representative for his district, Tulsa and the state. He deserves election to the House District 23 seat.

T-Town DFA: Hard at Work Electing Democrats

T-Town DFA got its start this past summer and has attracted many new members -- 46, at last count -- because they are working smart and being pragmatic. The Tulsa group is led by Jack Boyte and Gordon Holmes, but "led" is a tricky word. These gentlemen set the dates and the agenda for the choir practice, they also lead the group along, but really what they do is enable the members to get things done for Democrats.

T-Town DFA also does the regular stuff like man the Tulsa County Democrats fair booth, as seen in the above photos. Below is a report from co-founder Jack Boyte on their recent activities.

There were two new members at our meeting Thursday night, including Scott Byrd. Elaine Dodd was there and stayed for the whole event, even though she had emailed saying she would only drop in because she was going to the "Women's Voter Forum," too. Her input played a significant part in the success of the meeting.

I took a stack of the left-over Democratic Party door hangers from the summer to the meeting. I wrote "Had Enough, Vote Nov 7" with a Sharpie on 2" X 2" post-it notes and put them on a few door-hangers, as an example for all to emulate. When the meeting was over, all the hangers were gone! Craig, Matt(new member), and Ed asked for precinct voter lists.

Brad has done a personal mailing to Democrats in his precinct and will do another before the election.

Bottom line: I think there are now 4 others willing to do precinct social events and we have 46 online members.

The turnout for the TCDP 'Bean Dinner' last night was about 150. Alan made a good talk. But really it just intensified the commitment of both Gordon and myself to build from grass-roots up, one precinct at a time.

Meet Tulsa County Commissioner Wilbert Collins

Wilbert Collins was first elected in 1998. During the past eight years, Commissioner Collins has proven himself to be a strong advocate for Tulsa County.

He worked hard on 4 to Fix the County, as well as to secure improvement projects through Vision 2025.

Collins is a native Tulsan who was educated in Tulsa Public Schools. He is also a veteran of the Army and the Army Reserves, where he served for more than 20 years.

Wilbert and his wife Joan have two sons Wilbert Jr., who is married and lives in Dallas, and Douglas, who serves in the Army and is stationed at Fort Belvoir, VA.

Tulsa County Democrats Are Tops

Democrats in Tulsa County have fielded an impressive team of nearly 20 candidates running for offices from U.S. Congress to statewide to county commissioner. Like Democratic candidates across Oklahoma, the Tulsa County candidates will represent their constituents with honesty, integrity and accountability.

Click below for a list of the candidates and their websites.


Below is a list of the Tulsa-area candidates with a link to their websites where available.

Kim Holland, Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner
Alan Gentges, U.S. Congress, CD-1
Jack Gordon, Tulsa County Assessor
Wilbert Collins, Tulsa County Commissioner, District 1
Sen. Mary Easley, Senate District 18
Jim Ward, Senate District 34
Dennis Weese, Senate District 36
Steve Gallo, House District 23
Kathryn Thompson, House District 29
Melinda Ryan, House District 30
Cory Spocogee, House District 69
Mike Workman, House District 70
Wayne Guevara, House District 74
Eric Proctor, House District 77
Rep. Jeannie McDaniel, House District 78
Kimberly Fobbs, House District 80
Rae Weese, House District 98

Senator Jim Inhofe Is a National Embarrassment!

There have been other editorials in the New York Times about Oklahoma politicians, but Inhofe and his rantings seem to appear most often. The latest piece ran yesterday and was titled, "Doubting Inhofe." Earlier this year one editorial about Inhofe was titled, "Who's Crazy Now?"

Read the latest on the senior senator from Oklahoma.

Republican Corruption May Start at The White House, But It's a Party-Wide Attitude That Oklahoma Republicans Share

Ohio Republican Bob Ney pled guilty this morning in the influence-peddling scandal involving disgraced lobbyist Jack Abramoff that has already led former Majority Leader Tom DeLay of Texas to resign under a cloud of indictment. Ney faces up to 10 years in prison for corruption in the United States Congress.

The scandal has tainted both the Republican-controlled Congress and the White House. Just last week, a top aid to Karl Rove resigned after it was reported she'd also been a top aid to Abramoff and arranged meetings between the two.

Sadly, it's become obvious the Republicans care more about maintaining their political power than doing what's right for the rest of us.

Now we've learned that the whole faith-based initiatives that Bush touted in his first term was just a political ploy to keep the rabid right in line with his administration. He's even lying to his base. Can Republicans be trusted to govern? In 12 years as the majority in the U.S. Congress and nearly six in The White House Republicans have proven without a doubt that they cannot govern.

LIST OF THINGS TO REMEMBER ON ELECTION DAY, Nov. 7

Iraq
Abu Ghraib
Guantanamo
Unwarranted Phone Taps
Unprecedented Powers
Unmatched Incompetence
Unparalleled Corruption

Governor Bob Taft
Representative Tom Delay
Representative Roy Blunt
Representative Ken Calvert
Representative John Dolittle
Representative Tom Feeney
Representative Katherine Harris
Representative Jerry Lewis
Representative Gary Miller
Representative Marilyn Musgrave
Representative Richard Pombo
Representative Rick Renzi
Representative John Sweeney
Representative Charles Taylor
Representative Curt Weldon
Representative J.D. Hayworth
Representative Don Sherwood
Representative Bob Ney
Representative Duke Cunningham
Representative Tom Reynolds
Representative Chris Cannon
Jeff Gannon
Representative Mark Foley
Representative Dennis Hastert
Senator George Allen
Senator Bill Frist
Senator Conrad Burns
Senator Rick Santorum
David Safavian
The Vice Presidential Energy Task Force
Three bucks a gallon
Record oil company profits
Anwar Pipeline
Anbar Province
Adelphia
Merck
Halliburton
Arthur Anderson
Qwest
Tyco
WorldCom
Global Crossing
Global Warming
Global Boiling
Exxon
Enron
Abramoff
Adam Kidan
Timothy Flanigan
Ralph Reed
Rita
Katrina
FEMA
Terri Schiavo
Condi
Harriet Miers
The Supreme Court
Diebold
John Bolton
Florida, 2000
Ohio, 2004
North Korea
Iran
Darfur
Stem Cell Research
Scooter Libby
Valerie Plame
Golden Parachutes
Shrunken Pensions
Bernie Kerik
Eminent Domain
Social Security
Habeas Corpus
Ahmad Chalabi
The Baghdad Museum
Tora Bora
Taliban Resurgence
Iraqi Insurgents
General Eric Shinseki
General Anthony Zinni
Mission Accomplished
Illegal Immigration
Intelligent Design
Kenneth Tomlinson
Claude Allen
Swift Boat Hit Squads
Ari Fleischer
Scott McClellan
Tony Snow
Ann Coulter
Expiration of Assault Weapons Ban
John Ashcroft
Alberto Gonzales
George Tenet
Paul Bremer
Paul Wolfowitz
Richard Perle
Kissinger Redux
Dick Cheney
Donald Rumsfeld

And finally, the Uniter-Decider-Reader of Camus, Shakespeare and "My Pet Goat," who describes the party that successfully prosecuted World War I and World War II as people who cut and run.

JARI ASKINS MAINTAINS LEAD OVER HIETT IN NEW POLL

A News 9/TVPoll.com statewide ballot survey released on October 9th, 2006, showed that Askins is still leading.

When asked, "If the election for Lieutenant. Governor was held today, and you had to make a choice, for whom would you vote?," voters responded:

Jari Askins: 48.0%
Todd Hiett: 41.3%
E.Z. Million: 1.7%
Unsure: 8.9%

Keep up the great work, Jari. At the Oklahoma Democratic Party, we are waiting to work with you as Lt. Governor.

Jari Askins Receives Endorsement From Claremore Daily Progress


FOR JARI ASKINS

Jari Askins is a rare public servant with vision for both fiscal prudence and ample funding of vital government programs.

In seeking the post of lieutenant governor, Jari Askins faces Todd Hiett. He is a penny-wise, dollar-foolish opponent of historically important efforts of civilization that belittle Oklahoma's heritage and wisdom of quality, family-oriented life.

Jari Askins owns a career of public service that is unblemished. While careful about spending taxpayers' money, Jari Askins knows that governments were formed as a method of cooperation among people for certain common good despite the fact that taxes are required.

Like a hog running wild at the slop trough, Hiett became infamous for ripping and tearing at the very fabric of society and civilized behavior. His narcissistic selfishness had him on the brink of being ousted from the House's top job by his own party near the end of the past session.

Jari Askins would work in harmony with the governor's office. No telling what stunts Hiett might pull. As speaker of the Oklahoma House of Representatives, he took huge sums of money for his own campaign that past speakers used to help re-elect their partisan colleagues, creating the smoldering resentment among fellow House Republicans.

Todd Hiett ran amok for first two years Oklahoma voters allowed the GOP to own a majority in the House. Republicans are supposed to be conservative, deep thinkers who ponder instead of rant. Hiett's self-absorption became so nauseating that many pundits of his own political persuasion lay the blame at his feet if republicans lose control of the House this year.

Jari Askins, serving as minority leader in the House, was a forceful but gentle voice of reason who sided with the majority when possible but spoke plainly when she discovered the Hiett house was running amok. That has been the historic pattern of public and private conduct of the bright 53-year-old former judge and parole board chairman from Duncan.

In business, Jari Askins ran the family's technical and precise abstract business that protects the right of private property ownership. Her reputation was flawless. Todd Hiett, in contrast, ran a dairy that he inherited and boasts so much about in television commercials without mentioning that as the fourth generation owner he sold the place. Askins' abstract business remains in the family while someone else is milking the Hiett family cows. Such reflects the true "family values" of the two candidates.

Choosing Jari Askins for lieutenant governor is imperative for Oklahoma's progress, fiscal soundness and improved government.

COME MEET ANTI-NUCLEAR ACTIVIST SATURDAY IN TULSA

Author and activist HARVEY WASSERMAN will speak about his decades long work as a pioneer of the global movement against atomic reactors and as a promoter of renewable energy for developing energy sources. He will also discuss his work promoting local and farmer-owned wind energy and solar energy projects.

He has co-authored many books including, "SOLARTOPIA: Our Green-Powered Earth, A.D. 2030."

DETAILS:

Saturday, October 14

1 p.m.

Fellowship Congregational Church

2900 South Harvard Avenue-Tulsa

WOMEN CANDIDATES FORUM IN TULSA TONIGHT!

5:30 to 7:30 p.m., Thursday, October 12

Tulsa Community College-Metro Campus

909 South Boston Avenue

Sponsored By:

The Mayor's Commission on the Status of Women

The League of Women Voters

The American Association of University Women

For More Information, Please Contact:

The Department of Human Rights

918-596-7826

www.cityoftulsa.org

SENATOR MARY EASLEY, SD-18, is well on her way to retaining her seat in the State Senate, but she has to keep working. She could use your help walking her district this Saturday, October 14.

Walkers will meet at 9:15 a.m. at McDonalds, 1829 South Garnett, and will walk from 10 a.m. until dusk. If you can give any time, please just show up or call Amber England at 493-9200.

Hope to see you Saturday. Remember to wear comfortable shoes.

Tulsa County Democratic Party Hosts Annual Bean Dinner

On Friday, October 13, the Tulsa County Democratic Party is holding its annual Bean Dinner to celebrate local candidates and to raise money for Party activities. There will be a silent auction of political memorabilia as well.

Author and Activist Harvey Wasserman is the keynote speaker. His latest book is "How the GOP Stole America's 2004 Election and Is Rigging 2008."

DETAILS:
Tulsa County Democratic Party Bean Dinner and Silent Auction
6:30 p.m., Friday, October 13, 2006
Pipeliners Union Hall
4823 S. 83rd E. Ave.
Tables for 10 are $250; Adults are $25
Children under 18 are free

Oklahoma On The Move

In yesterday's gubernatorial forum at the Reed Center in Midwest City, Governor Brad Henry said he's used a balanced approach to raising teachers' salaries and tax cuts. (Perhaps this approach is what has earned him the respect of Democrats, Republicans, and Independents across the state and an approval rating of nearly 70%.)

Henry insisted that Oklahoma is on the move and backed it up with figures released earlier this month from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics showing "Oklahoma's rate of job growth has exceeded the national average for nine consecutive quarters" and that Oklahoma's economy has created more than 100,000 jobs since July 2003.

Henry pointed to many accomplishments from his term as governor unlike the folks in Washington who hold hearings, point their fingers, assess blame and get nothing done. Henry's opponent, Ernest Istook is part of the Do Nothing Congress and is steeped in the Washington Way, something Henry opposes in favor of the Oklahoma Way. If you haven't seen them, check out Henry's tv commercials and compare them to Istook's. (Oh, that's right, Istook doesn't have any tv commercials and some are wondering if he even has a campaign.)

Meet Jim Roth

Check out Oklahoma County Commissioner Jim Roth's bio and accomplishments for the citizens of Oklahoma County here.

When some talk about local government, Jim Roth walks it. Roth has a proven record of accomplishments that make it clear to all that he is the best man for the job - again - and for as long as he wants it! We need men and women like Jim Roth who are dedicated to public service, not addicted to power and ideology, to represent us at every level of government. If you live in his district and don't have a sign in your yard, get one. We have some at the ODP or you can call his campaign office at 609.1929 and they will get one to you.

Celebrating Leadership
State Superintendent Sandy Garrett

As the only woman in Oklahoma history to be elected to the constitutional post of State Superintendent of Public Instruction, Sandy Garrett is also the only Oklahoma woman elected to a statewide office for a fourth consecutive term.

Sandy Garrett was born in Muskogee and graduated from Stilwell High School. She received her bachelor's and master's degrees from Northeastern State University and pursued postgraduate studies at the University of Oklahoma and the John F. Kennedy School of Government at Harvard University.

After 15 years as a classroom teacher and gifted programs coordinator in Muskogee County schools, she joined the State Department of Education as Gifted and Talented Programs Coordinator then became Executive Director of Education Programs, which included rural education, technology, satellite instruction, media applications, and library resources.

Throughout her career, Superintendent Garrett has been an outspoken advocate for children and Oklahoma 's acknowledged leader in education reform and school improvement. Her pivotal role implementing the Learning by Satellite program and establishing a two-way interactive fiber-optic instruction system in the Panhandle region drew national attention to Oklahoma in the 1980s. In 1988, she was named Cabinet Secretary of Education by Republican Governor Henry Bellmon, a position she was later reappointed to by Democrat Governor David Walters.
She began her first term as State Superintendent in 1991.

As Chief Executive Officer of the State Department of Education, Superintendent Garrett has led the timely implementation of the mandates of Oklahoma 's landmark Education Reform Act of 1990 and the federal No Child Left Behind Act of 2001. Additionally, since taking office in 1991, she has downsized the Department, saving taxpayers a cumulative $52.7 million.

A hallmark of Superintendent Garrett's administration has been the development of Pre-Kindergarten programs to the extent that Oklahoma is recognized as the national model by the National Institute for Early Education Research. Increasing academic standards, improving reading skills, bringing technology to the classroom and making schools safer are also priorities Superintendent Garrett continues to pursue. In 2001, she received the prestigious Silver Beaver Award from the Boy Scouts of America for her work promoting character education.

With her fellow members of the State Board of Education, school deregulation has been initiated, a uniform financial accounting system for schools enforced and Oklahoma's first state core curriculum adopted along with aligned assessments for accountability. Among Superintendent Garrett's initiatives is the nation's first statewide school safety hot line (1-877-SAFE-CALL, ext. OK1), which allows anonymous reports of suspicious or potentially dangerous activity in schools.
Her constitutional posts include Chair of both the State Board of Education and the State Board of Career and Technology Education and membership on the State Board of Equalization, the Board of Regents of Oklahoma Colleges and the School Land Commission. The state superintendent also serves numerous other statutory roles both state and national.

In July 2004, she was elected treasurer of the Education Commission of the States.
Among numerous honors, Superintendent Garrett was named one of the “Fifty Making a Difference” in Oklahoma by The Journal Record. She was inducted into the Oklahoma Educators Hall of Fame in August 2000, and is a member of the Northeastern State University Alumni Association Hall of Fame. In November 2000, she received the First Lady's Leadership in Literacy Award for her statewide efforts to improve reading instruction for children and expand literacy programs for adults.

McMahan (The People's Watchdog) Seeks Credit Card Audits to Safeguard Tax Dollars

By Randy Ellis

The Oklahoman State credit cards are being used to make millions of dollars in purchases each year with little or no oversight or approval, state Auditor and Inspector Jeff McMahan said Wednesday.

Violations of state purchasing laws, potentially illegal destruction of state credit card records, missing receipts and numerous questionable purchases were uncovered by a preliminary review of a small sample of state credit card purchases, McMahan said.

Auditors found employees using state credit cards to shop at places such as "Saks Fifth Avenue, pawn shops, convenience stores and video stores," he said.

Questionable purchases included Christmas decorations, "smiling elephants," food, gasoline and travel, McMahan said.

Since problems appear to be widespread, McMahan said he is asking Attorney General Drew Edmondson to request a series of detailed investigative audits to look at credit card use in every state agency.

Charlie Price, spokesman for the attorney general, said Edmondson's office has not received McMahan's report. "When we do receive the report, it will be reviewed to see if an investigative audit is warranted," Price said.

What is legitimate?The state auditor's office initiated its special audit of state credit card use after The Oklahoman published reports detailing credit card abuse in selected state agencies.
"We have agencies that are using state credit cards to purchase doughnuts and refreshments for their staffs every day," McMahan said. "This might be legal -- I've been told that it was, but I don't see how. We don't do that in the auditor's office, and I don't believe that's how taxpayers expect their money to be spent."

Auditors said they discovered significant problems in a review of just 609 of the nearly 80,000 state credit card transactions made between July 1, 2004 and June 30, 2005. State credit card purchases totaled more than $18.2 million that year.

Auditors didn't look at Oklahoma higher education credit card purchases, which totaled more than $91.8 million during a similar one-year time period, he said. Universities contract with outside auditors to examine purchases, he said.

Required receipts were missing from a quarter of the credit card purchases examined, making it impossible for auditors to determine if the items were bought for legitimate state purposes, McMahan said.

The Department of Consumer Credit and J.M. Davis Memorial Commission were particularly bad about having large numbers of credit card transactions with missing receipts, the audit revealed. The Department of Consumer Credit was cited for having 61 transactions totaling $11,697 with missing receipts, and the J.M. Davis Memorial Commission was cited for having 16 transactions totaling $642 with missing receipts.

Many of the purchases that lacked receipts were made at Wal-Mart and similar stores which sell items that might be used for state or home use, McMahan said. He said he may ask the attorney general to issue subpoenas for corporate records so that auditors can determine what was bought.

"When you spend taxpayers' dollars, if you don't have a receipt, you probably should pay for it out of your own pocket," McMahan said.

The auditor said he was also concerned by the lack of safeguards in place at the Oklahoma Housing Finance Agency, where two cardholders control 24 credit cards. The agency has separate credit cards for each of 12 cost centers. Each card has a single purchase limit of $25,000 and monthly purchase limit of $50,000, which gives the agency a potential financial exposure of $14.4 million a year.

"That seems ridiculous and extremely dangerous," McMahan said.

Cards can be coded to prohibit the purchase of certain categories of items, but that wasn't done at this agency, so the cards could be used in liquor stores, pawn shops, adult entertainment stores and similar places, McMahan said.

A problem developed when one of the housing agency's cardholders loaned a credit card to another employee, who lost it. The lost card was then used to make $992 in purchases, including $970 at Common Wealth Tobacco, $21 at a 7-Eleven and $1.12 at Staples. The agency was able to recoup all but the $1.12 spent at Staples.

Credit card purchases of Christmas decorations, treasure chests, "smiling
elephants," and other items were questioned in an audit of the Pardon and Parole Board that was released last November and summarized again in the audit released Wednesday.

Election Day: Take a Day Off and Get to Work

Start planning for Election Day by taking November 7th off work. You can't help get out the vote if you have other obligations. Take a minute today to ask your boss for Election Day off. Clear your calendar so you can help on this important day. Then contact us about volunteering. Thanks to the DNC's 50 State Partnership Project, the Oklahoma Democratic Party is running an aggressive organizing program coordinated by Oklahomans Teresa Hill, Jason McCarty and Courtney Ruark. The key to making our program work is simple: YOU. Our organizers simply can't organize the whole state without the help of the dedicated activists that have made the Democratic Party what it is today, and your help -- no matter how much time or money you have to give -- is vital.

Oklahoma GOP Running from Bush and Rove?

Oklahoma GOP Running from Bush and Rove?

Did you see that Bush's brain--Karl Rove--was in Oklahoma City on Monday? Pictures of the protests have been posted and newspaper articles published, but you wouldn't know he was anywhere near this state by looking at the OK GOP website.

Strange, huh?

The scandal-ridden Republican Party wants you to forget about George W. Bush, Dick Cheney and Donald Rumsfeld when you go to the polls on November 7. They want you to forget that their failed policies have brought us the occupation of Iraq, historically high budget deficits, corrupt lobbyist Jack Abramoff, imprisoned former Rep. Duke Cunningham, disgraced former Majority Leader Tom DeLay and a cover-up of a sex scandal involving a Congressman and underage male pages. And, don't forget the images of those poor, stranded people in New Orleans waiting for a government that never came.

We've seen it in Oklahoma City and we've seen it in Washington: the Republican Party cares more about power than about doing what's right for the people.

Happy Birthday Eleanor

Today we’re celebrating former First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt’s birthday. Eleanor Roosevelt famously said, “It’s up to women” to help make the country better. The Oklahoma Democratic Party agrees and is proud to have three strong, principled women leaders running for statewide office, as well as many other equally capable women running across this great state.

State Rep. Jari Askins of Duncan is leading in her bid for Lt. Governor. Sandy Garrett, Superintendent of Public Instruction, is working hard to earn a fifth term overseeing our schools. And, Insurance Commissioner Kim Holland has proven herself as the appointed Insurance Commissioner; now she is using her great reputation to gain a first full term.

Just this past weekend, the Associated Press reported that the Republicans have continued to lose support from married mothers, the majority of whom supported George W. Bush in the last presidential election. Echoing what we’ve been saying for months, the new polling cited economic concerns as a top issue with American mothers, who, as the manager of their households, know first hand how difficult it has become to make ends meet under this Republican administration and congress.

The AP-Ipsos poll shows that married moms care as much about health care and the economy as they do about terrorism. The situation is Iraq is a greater concern that taxes and Social Security. According to the poll, married moms believe that Democrats would handle Iraq and the economy better than the Republicans.

“The Republican Party’s failed agenda and misplaced priorities are leaving mothers and families behind, but Democrats are fielding an excellent team of women from the courthouse to the statehouse,” said Oklahoma Democratic Party Chairwoman Lisa Pryor. “We have more than 100 women seeking election in Oklahoma’s from Boise City to Idabel and Hollis to Miami who are ready to take over and focus on the priorities Oklahoma’s families care about.”

Cody Graves receives bi-partisan endorsements of all former Corporation Commissioners

J.C. Watts and Jim Townsend lead Graves’ endorsement group Democrat and Republican commissioners join in unprecedented support

OKLAHOMA CITY – In a move unprecedented in state political history, every Democrat and Republican former Corporation Commissioner today urged Oklahoma voters to elect Democrat Cody Graves to be Oklahoma’s next commissioner, saying Graves is best suited to serve and protect taxpayers’ interests at the commission.

Two of the state’s best known former commissioners, Republicans J.C. Watts, who also served in Congress and Democratic populist Jim Townsend led the impressive list of bi-partisan former commissioners backing Graves.

Besides Townsend, Democrats Hamp Baker, Norma Eagleton, Charles Nesbitt and Rex Privett all are supporting Graves.

Former Republican commissioner Ed Apple joined Watts in breaking party ranks to back Graves, a life-long Democrat.

Never before in Oklahoma history has such a prestigious bi-partisan group of former elected officials come together over political party lines to endorse a candidate for public office.

“I am honored to have the unwavering support of these men and women who have shown, once again, that they are true leaders for the people of Oklahoma,”
Graves said. “I am a Democrat and I am proud of it, but the goal of my campaign has been to unite people in a single cause – to protect Oklahoma taxpayers and their interests.

Graves is running against 18-year incumbent Republican Corporation Commissioner Bob Anthony. Graves currently runs a company that helps major businesses monitor and reduce their utility costs. He is a recognized national expert in utility and energy matters.

“I want to change the commission. I want to open its decision-making process to more public review. I want to expand consumer protection efforts and I want to end the questionable actions that have become a part of Bob Anthony’s record at the commission,” Graves said.

“The help of these men and women is a tremendous step toward winning this election.”

Comments from each of the former Commissioners:

Republican J.C. Watts, who also served as an Oklahoma’s 4th District Congressman:
“I have known Cody Graves for years and I believe he is truly the best person to serve as our next corporation commissioner.

“My decision to endorse and support Cody is based upon Cody’s sincere desire to do more to open commission operations to public review and to strengthen the agency’s consumer protection efforts to ensure taxpayer’s and their interests are protected.

“To me this is not a decision about which political party a person belongs to, but a decision about what is in the best interest of the people of Oklahoma. The people of Oklahoma should always come first in these matters. I know Cody Graves will be an extremely effective commissioner who will serve with honor and integrity and in a way that will make every Oklahoman proud that they voted for him.”

Democrat James Townsend:
“People. That’s what Cody Graves is all about. Doing what’s right for people. I know Cody as one of the most honorable, honest public servants I have ever met or had the privilege of working with. His Democratic beliefs are unquestionable. His desire to help people is beyond reproach. I know he will do much to make the Corporation Commission Count Again.”

Democrat Norma Eagleton:
“My campaign slogan was that I would always keep an ‘Eagle Eye’ out for taxpayers as a corporation commissioner. I know that’s Cody will do and that’s why I’m excited about voting for him. I think a change is needed at the commission and I think Cody is the person best suited to bring about those changes.”

Republican Ed Apple:
“Cody is simply the best man for this job. His experience, his honesty, his ability to fairly judge matters are all reasons I support his election. I’m voting for Cody Graves because we need a new commissioner now more than we ever have before.”

Democrat Hamp Baker:
“My campaign slogan was always ‘Put Your Stamp On Hamp.’ Now it’s ‘Put Your Stamp On Cody.’ I believe the corporation commission can do more to protect consumers. With the right man in office, the commission can have a dramatic impact on the state’s efforts to bring new jobs to our cities and towns.
Cody Graves is that right man. There’s no doubt about it.”
Democrat Charles Nesbitt:
“I judge a candidate by his actions and his record. I know Cody Graves’ record and I know Bob Anthony’s – and believe me I know which one is better, Cody’s. If the people are looking for someone to clean up the commission; to make the commission an active player in the effort to bring new jobs to Oklahoma; if they want someone who will put an end to shenanigans that all too often permeate commission procedures – then Cody Graves is the man who will do it.”

Democrat Rex Privett:
“It should be pretty clear to everyone that things need to be changed at the corporation commission. I know both of these candidates and I know which one I can count on to make the changes that are so desperately needed – and that’s Cody Graves.”

Cody Graves
Oklahomans for Cody Graves
405-496-4824

P.O. Box 1515
Oklahoma City, OK. 73101-1515

Faith Leaders Host Meet and Greet for Anastasia Pittman



Pastors J.A. Reed Jr., Arnelious Crenshaw Jr., James H. Tucker, George E. Young Sr, and the Oklahoma Democratic Party will host a “Meet & Greet” with Anastasia Pittman, Democrat Nominee for State Representative - House District 99 for the faith community and religious leaders.

All are invited to meet and greet Anastasia Pittman on Thursday, October 12, 2006,
6:00 p.m to 8:00 p.m. at the Oklahoma Democratic Party located at 4100 N. Lincoln Blvd. The meet and greet is open to the public.

Please call Teresa Hill at (405) 427-3366 to RSVP

Send Oklahoma Democrats to Congress

The country's mood is clearly to throw out the Republicans in Congress and to elect Democrats to lead. And in Oklahoma voters can start with re-electing Dan Boren in the 2nd District. The Congressional Republican leadership has betrayed the people's trust; Democrats will provide a new direction and honest leadership. Each of our nominees have signs just waiting for a yard. Each of our nominees could benefit from another $10, $100, or $1000. Each of our nominees need your support today. Each needs your vote on November 7th. Please contact the congressional campaign nearest you and start working today to elect Oklahoma Democrats to Congress.

CD 1 Alan Gentges
CD 2 Dan Boren
CD 3 Sue Barton
CD 4 Hal Spake
CD 5 Dr. David Hunter

Numbers

An October 6-8 telephone interview of 1,028 adult Americans conducted by Opinion Research Corporation for CNN reveals the following:

56% of respondents DISAPPROVE of the way George W. Bush is handling his job as president.

55% of respondents said if the elections for Congress were held today, they would vote for the Democratic candidate.

Only 36% of respondents said their Republican member of Congress should be re-elected. (Listen up Sullivan, Lucas, and Cole.)

Overall Congress gets a 63% DISAPPROVAL rating from the respondents.

On ethics the Democrats have a 54 to 47% lead over the Republicans in Congress.

3rd District Events


Oct 12 - Payne County Democratic Party's Annual Brayfest, Payne County Expo Center at the fairgrounds, 6 p.m. Tickets $25, Catered Meal.

Oct 12 - Fundraiser/Reception for HD59 Candidate Richie Oakes. 6:30 pm. Flying G Steakhouse banquet room. BBQ Beef sandwiches served.

Oct 14 - Texas County Democrats "Every Voter Counts", 10:00 a.m., Meet at the No Man's Land Senior Citizens Center, 15th and East Street in Guymon. Call Ken Burton at 580-338-0834 for more information.

Oct 14 - Osage County Democrats HOMECOMING. 6 p.m. Osage County Fairgrounds. Picnic atmosp-here, Casual (real casual), Food & Beverages Provided.

Oct 20 - Meet & Greet for Sue Barton, Cherokee. Courthouse Community Room

Oct 24 - Noble County Fundraiser, Doors open at 6:00, Program starts at 6:30 p.m. Womens' Building, Noble County Fair Grounds, Perry, All candidates or represenatives are welcome, and will be alloted time to speak. For more information, Please call Anita Norman (580) 336-5939. Tickets $5.00, Potato Bake with all the trimmings

For more information, contact the County Chair in each county or you may call Mack Miller, 580 764 3498

The NOC Young Democrat Forum

Young Democrats at NOC are hosting a forum at 1 p.m. Monday, Oct. 16 in Montgomery Hall, located in the Hallie Gantz Student Center, 100 South University Drive (on The Northern Oklahoma College Enid Campus) Enid, Oklahoma.

Candidates in the races for Oklahoma House Districts 40 and 41, and for the U.S. Congressional Oklahoma District #3 have been invited to speak.

For more information, call (580) 548-2217

For Meacham
By World's Editorial Writers
10/8/06

Banker-lawyer has right credentials

In the two positions he has held in Gov. Brad Henry's administration, Scott Meacham has proven himself to be a hardworking, intelligent and capable public servant. He deserves election to the office of state treasurer on Nov. 7.

The 43-year-old Democrat holds a bachelor's degree in finance, a Master of Business Administration and a law degree from the University of Oklahoma.

A fifth-generation Oklahoman, Meacham, a certified financial planner, was chief executive officer of First National Bank & Trust of Elk City when Henry tapped him to become director of state finance.

While serving as the bank's CEO, the institution more than doubled in size and profits increased by more than 150 percent.

When former State Treasurer Robert Butkin resigned that post to become dean of the University of Tulsa College of Law, Henry asked Meacham to become state treasurer. He assumed that post on June 1, 2005.

In a little more than a year on that job, Meacham took steps to double state investment earnings, from about $47.7 million in fiscal 2005 to more than $98 million in fiscal '06. One strategy he adopted for increasing earnings was to move about $1 billion held in

checking accounts into safe, higher-yielding investments.

While serving as director of state finance, Meacham was the governor's chief negotiator and policy adviser. In those roles he helped draft the state budget four years in a row, assisting in the development of unprecedented tax cuts and major initiatives in education and health care.

Meacham also oversees investing Oklahoma's share of the national tobacco settlement, and in that capacity has helped save the state more than $3 million in investment services.

Meacham also took the lead in pursuing changes to the Oklahoma College Savings Plan that will enable Oklahoma families to qualify for state income tax deductions.

Meacham's greatest challenge was negotiating new agreements with Indian tribes over gaming and tobacco sales. While his detractors might blame him for problems that developed after a few of the compacts were signed, the fact remains that more revenue is flowing into state coffers as a result of the new gaming and tobacco agreements.

Meacham and his wife Susan have four children and live in Edmond.

He faces Republican Tulsa businessman Howard Barnett, who served in Gov. Frank Keating's administration, in the general election.

Barnett has a business background and considerable experience as a banker and publisher to his credit, but in this case, Meacham has the edge. He should be elected Oklahoma state treasurer.

Roundup on Henry campaign trail
By MICK HINTON World Capitol Bureau 10/8/2006

On one of his RV tour's 'whistle-stops,' the governor hears what Hobart residents have to say, and does a bit of talking himself.

HOBART -- Jackie Maggard told his buddies at the Cozy Diner the day the governor was coming to town that he used to refer to Brad Henry as "Coach Switzer's pet."
"Barry Switzer sure helped get him elected four years ago," Maggard said.
"But the governor turned out to be a lot more," Joe Funkhouser chimed in.
"He hasn't done nothing wrong so far," said Maggard, one of the regulars who shows up at the diner most mornings to talk about next Saturday's football games and to help solve the world's problems.

A block away, folks were gathering around the courthouse square, awaiting the governor's arrival for a campaign stop last Tuesday. The men at the diner said they thought it had been four years since Henry had visited their town, but they had never met "the other candidate," Republican U.S. Rep. Ernest Istook.

Voters will choose their next governor on Nov. 7.

About 50 townspeople had congregated by the time Henry's campaign RV arrived with its horn blasting shortly after 11 a.m.

Nellie Perry, 77, was there, decked out in bright Oklahoma State University orange. Perry, who has Parkinson's disease and writes a column for the local newspaper, told the governor and first lady Kim Henry that she was grateful for their efforts to fight the disease.

Several people had come with their cameras, including local Municipal Judge Marian Pfenning.
"The governor is very honest and straightforward. He does what he says he'll do. Look what he's done for teachers," Pfenning said.

Stephen Boyd, director of the Chamber of Commerce and head of the $2.5 million Main Street Project, was ready to escort the Henrys around town. The thing that folks need most in this community is completion of Oklahoma 183 from Cordell through Hobart and on south to Mountain Park, locals said. The highway already has been four-laned from Cordell to Interstate 40. At the south end, the highway has been improved almost from the Red River to Snyder, and the Snyder-Mountain Park link is under construction.

At the courthouse square, Henry and his wife greeted people as if they had met them before.
Boyd guided Henry to the gazebo at the southwest corner of the square and asked the governor to say a few words.

He got more than a few.

"What I'm seeing is this community is bustling with energy. This is indeed a most exciting time. I believe Oklahomans feel better about this state than ever before," Henry said.
"Will Rogers said, 'Even if you're on the right track, you'll get run over if you sit there too long.'
"We're not gonna just sit there," he said.

The governor reiterated what he considered to be major accomplishments during his administration: early education, meth lab eradication and helping small businesses provide health insurance for their employees. Henry also boasted about the condition of the state's "rainy day" reserve fund. Four years ago, "we faced the largest shortfall in history. Our rainy day fund was wiped out. This year, we balanced the budget without raising taxes, and we've filled the rainy day fund to the constitutional limit. I'm very proud of that."

"And Highway 183 is going to be completed," said Henry, which was the only time during his speech that the crowd burst into cheers and applause.

Henry also noted that during his watch taxes have been cut, and the state has been lucky enough to have money for things such as teachers' raises and roads.

Back at the diner, Funkhouser had cautioned that Henry and other politicians should not cut taxes too much. Living in these parts, Funkhouser said, he has seen the fortunes of the oil field come and go, "and people don't seem to learn."

Henry's campaign crew had arranged for the governor to walk around town.
His first stop was the old corner drug store, where owner Truett Guthrie was ready to serve up a chocolate shake.
"You look 20 years younger in person," Guthrie kidded the governor.
Henry talked to everyone in sight and didn't get his shake right away. His wife caught Henry's attention when she said, "Bradford, your shake is here."

The governor confirmed later that his actual name was Charles Bradford, after his father Charles, also an attorney, but the governor goes by the name Brad.

After stopping by the newspaper office for a picture with Joe Hancock, editor of the Hobart Democrat-Chief, it was off to Roy's Barbeque for lunch, where Henry and his wife made sure they stopped by every booth to shake hands and hand out campaign brochures.

Henry ordered a chicken fried chicken sandwich, which turned out to be bigger than expected. During the meal, he kept talking much of the time.
The governor was about the last person to be served, and he wasn't finished when it was time to go. Henry said he'd better leave the sandwich anyway, because he was still full from that shake at the drug store.

Among those waiting to meet the governor at his next stop in Cordell was Diane Glennie, who told Henry she wanted to ask him a few questions because Glennie's 16-year-old son, Caleb, was portraying the governor for an upcoming mock election at nearby Corn Bible Academy, and she wanted to know some more about the governor's platform.
She asked his view on school vouchers. He replied, "Opposed," and there wasn't much discussion after that.

Inside the courthouse, Kim Cooper identified herself to Henry as a former prison inmate incarcerated for drugs and asked the governor to get out of the pardon and parole process.
Cooper said she'd been granted release by the Pardon and Parole Board on June 20, but it took until Aug. 23 for the governor to sign her release. "It costs another $5,000 a month for an inmate," she said.

Henry politely listened, then went on to greet others.

Charley Morris, a retired teacher and counselor at Cordell and Rocky, told the governor that the town needed help to create more jobs. Morris said most of the time, people around Cordell voted Republican. "But Henry's the most popular governor we've had in a long time."

Democratic Response to W's Saturday Radio Address

If you missed it this morning, listen here to the Democratic Congressional Candidate Patty Wetterling's response to the president's Saturday morning radio address. Wetterling speaks directly from personal experience, as a candidate and as an American mother about this week's scandal involving the Republican leadership's handling of disgraced Congressman Foley's predatory sexual behavior and exploitation of young pages entrusted to the program run by the Republican House of Representatives. Listen to this powerful speech about a new direction and accountability. You'll be glad you did.

CD 2 Congressman Dan Boren Looking Forward to a Democratic Majority

At a recent event in OKC CD 2 Rep. Dan Boren told the audience he is looking forward to a Democratic Majority in November. And we Democrats are looking forward to that as well!

Boren is campaigning throughout the 2nd District for a second term. Check out his campaign at http://www.borenforcongress.com/.

Boren is part of the growing fiscal conservative Blue Dog Democrat coalition of House Democrats. The coalition was established by Congressman John Tanner.

Gentges' Challenge Race Could Be Pickup in CD1

Congressional District 1 Democratic nominee Alan Gentges is making strong headway in his race against Republican incumbent John Sullivan. Check out the campaign and Alan's blog at http://www.gentges4congress.org/cat/blog. This three-way race could be a pickup for Democrats given Sullivan's past combined with a smart campaign strategy by Gentges. The indie candidate Bill Wortman will pull votes from Sullivan and the recent Republican sex scandals will likely discourage some of the district's values voters. CD 1 Democratic voters could pick up this seat if they will get behind Gentges and make the next 30 days count. Gentges has laid out his views on the important issues and deserves the voters' consideration. Contact the Gentges campaign to see how you can help.

Your Opinions and Their Opinions

Do you approve or disapprove of the way George W. Bush is handling his job as president?

If the 2006 elections for U.S. Congress were being held TODAY, would you vote for the Republican
Party’s candidate or the Democratic Party’s candidate for Congress in your district?

What matters more to you as you think about your vote for Congress this fall?

These and other questions were answered by 1,804 Americans between Sept. 21 and Oct. 4. Check out their responses in this Pew Research Center poll just released and see where you agree and disagree.

Edmondson AGain!

Show your support for our Attorney General Drew Edmondson with a yard sign or bumper sticker!

Would you like a large (2x4 ft.) Edmondson AGain sign for your property on a busy street?

Maybe a small yard sign for your home or business?

How about bumper stickers?

Please contact your Democratic Party County Chair for materials. You may also contact Andrea Hamor at 405.521.1385 or andreahamor@EdmondsonAgain.com to volunteer or request materials.

If requesting materials by email, please include your name, delivery address, number and type of signs/bumper stickers, and a phone number in case we need to contact you.

Sign Pick-Up Locations in Tulsa and OKC

Tulsa County Democratic Party Headquarters - 3930 E. 31st Street, Tulsa, (Mon-Fri 10am-2pm or by appointment), 918.742.2457

Oklahoma Democratic Party Headquarters - 4100 N. Lincoln Blvd., OKC (Mon-Fri 9am-7pm), 405.427.3366

Edmondson for Attorney General Headquarters - 3815 N. Santa Fe, Ste. 109, OKC (Mon-Fri 9am-5pm, please call ahead), 405.521.1385

GOP Broken Promises Hurting Our Troops

NEW POLL SHOWS GOP BROKEN PROMISES HURTING OUR TROOPS Washington, DC - At a time when our nation is asking great sacrifices of our brave men and women serving in Iraq and Afghanistan, a new poll indicates that too many have not received the resources they need and were promised.

According to a poll released this week by VoteVets.org Action Fund, 42 percent of the veterans who served in Iraq and Afghanistan reported receiving sub-standard equipment while on duty.

Close to two-thirds believe the wars have left the Army and the Marine Corps overextended at this time.

This follows the latest NBC News/Wall Street Journal poll, which found that the President's approval rating has fallen three points to 40 percent and "46 percent of registered voters believe the war in Iraq has hurt the United States in its ability to win the war on terrorism." [MSNBC, 10/3/06]

The VoteVets.org Action Fund poll also makes clear that, for many of the men and women fighting to defend our freedoms, their service has come with great sacrifice for their families. It found that 32 percent of National Guard and Reserve veterans said their families experienced economic hardship as a result of their service, while 79 percent of all veterans of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan said that National Guard and Reserve veterans should receive the same access to Tri-Care as the men and women serving on active duty. Instead of expanding the program, the Bush Administration's budget cuts would drive a million veterans off Tri-Care by hiking premiums and co-pays.

"Despite the President's rhetoric about supporting our brave men and women serving in Iraq and Afghanistan, the Bush Republicans in Washington have not kept their promises to them or their families," said Don Fowler, co-chair of the Democratic National Committee's Veterans and Military Families Council.
"With so many giving so much in defense of our freedoms, the President and Congress have a solemn obligation to keep our promise to the to our veterans and military families. It is time for a new direction for America, one that honors our soldiers and veterans by fully funding veterans health care programs, and making a commitment to never again send troops into harms way without proper body armor."

The following is a fact sheet on the Bush Administration's failure to stand up for our veterans:

THE BUSH ADMINISTRATION: BAD FOR AMERICA'S VETERANS HEALTH CARE AND LONG TERM CARE Bush Proposed $10 Billion in Veterans Health Care Cuts Over Five Years. Over five years, the budget cuts funding $10.0 billion below the level the Congressional Budget Office (CBO) estimates is needed to maintain purchasing power at the 2006 level. Almost all appropriated funding for veterans goes to provide medical care and hospital services. [House Budget Committee, Democratic Staff; 3/21/06]

Bush Tried To Impose New User Fees and Double Prescription Drug Co-Payments For Veterans -- Driving 1 Million Veterans Out of the System - For Fourth Year in a Row. For the fourth year in a row, Bush's proposed 2007 budget would more than double the co-payment charged to veterans for prescription drugs and would require some to pay a new user fee of $250 a year for health care. Bush would also increase the co-payment for a month's supply of a prescription drug from $7 to $15. Veterans' groups said that at least 200,000 veterans would be driven out of the system entirely, and this would cost veterans remaining in the system more than $2 billion over five years. [Budget of the US Government, 2/06; House Budget Committee, Democratic Staff; 3/21/06]

Bush Blocked Access to VA Health Care For Some Veterans For Third Year in a Row; Over 500,000 Locked Out of System. In 2003, the Bush Administration also suspended new enrollments by veterans in Priority Group 8, the one with the lowest statutory priority. This group includes veterans who are not being compensated for a military-related disability and who have "higher incomes," generally about $30,000 or more. The Administration estimates that 522,000 veterans will have been turned away by the end of Fiscal Year 2005 as a result of this ban. [Defense Link, 1/24/03; Senate Democratic Policy Committee, 3/17/05]

Bush 2007 Budget Cuts Medical and Prosthetic Research. The budget cuts medical and prosthetic research by $13 million below the 2006 enacted level. Among the R&D activities within this program are efforts to help new war veterans - to improve treatment of post traumatic stress disorder, blast-related injuries, and Gulf War related illness. [Budget of the US Government, 2/06; House Budget Committee, Democratic Staff; 3/21/06]

Bush 2007 Budget Cuts Funding For Nursing Homes; Leaving 28,000 Veterans Without Care. Despite growing demand for extended care in VA nursing homes, the Administration's budget request cuts $351 million from nursing homes by serving 28,000 fewer veterans. It also would significantly limit assistance to states, by cutting state nursing home grants from $114 million to $12 million. This cut would place the burden of extended care almost completely on resource-starved state governments. [Senate Democratic Policy Committee, 3/17/05]

52,000 Veterans on Waiting Lists Nationwide; Veterans Groups Believe Number is Understated. As of third quarter 2005, VA reports that 52,000 veterans are waiting to receive care at VA facilities. However, independent groups believe that ".the accuracy of reported veterans' waiting times and facility wait lists is undermined by variability in VA's compliance with outpatient scheduling procedures." [The Independent Budget, FY2007]

Facilities Are Falling Apart And Veterans Must Wait Months For Appointments. While Nicholson said VA health care has not diminished, critics say otherwise. They point to a system already in disrepair in which veterans must wait months for appointments or surgeries. At the White River Junction VA Medical Center in Vermont, three operating rooms were closed June 27 because of a broken heating, ventilation and air conditioning system that had not been repaired because maintenance funds were used to cover the budget shortfall. San Diego VA Medical Center has delayed filling 131 vacancies on it staff. The VA medical center in Portland, OR,, is delaying non-emergency surgery for at least six months. "Right now, medical facilities are literally falling down around their patients," said Rep. David Obey of Wisconsin. [Navy Times, 7/18/05]

TAX HIKES FOR MILITARY FAMILIES Bush Budget Refused To End The Disabled Veterans' Tax. The President's budget fails to repeal the Disabled Veterans Tax, which forces disabled military retirees to give up one dollar of their pension for every dollar of disability pay they receive. The budget continues to require nearly 400,000 military retirees with service-connected disabilities to continue to pay the Disabled Veterans' Tax. [Office of House Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi, 2/06]

Bush Budget Failed To End The Military Families' Tax. The Survivor Benefit Plan penalizes survivors, mostly widows, of those killed as a result of combat. These individuals lose their survivor benefits if they receive Dependency and Indemnity Compensation benefits because their spouse has died of a service-connected injury. The President's budget forces these 53,000 spouses to continue to pay this unfair tax. [Office of House Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi, 2/06]

Bush 2007 Budget Increased Health Care Tax on Military Retirees. The President's 2007 budget also increases health care enrollment fees and deductibles for military retirees under the age of 65, saving $735 million for 2007, and $11.2 billion over five years. Over two years, this proposal triples fees for retired officers and doubles them for senior enlisted retirees. For junior enlisted retirees, fees will increase more than 40 percent over two years. [Budget of the US Government, 2/06; House Budget Committee, Democratic Staff; 3/21/06]

BOTCHED RESPONSE TO DATA THEFT Officials Kept Worst Breach of Government Data Ever Secret for 19 Days. Authorities waited almost three weeks to alert the public that personal data on more than 26 million U.S. veterans had fallen into the hands of thieves, a government source said Tuesday. The computer disk [that was stolen] contained the names, Social Security numbers and birth dates of every living veteran from 1975 to the present, Veterans Affairs Secretary Jim Nicholson said Monday. The theft has been described as the worst breach of government data ever. [CNN, 5/23/06; New York Times, 8/6/06]

Veterans Administration Offers to Monitor Credit; Then Renegs. Initially, VA Secretary Nicholson said the credit monitoring was part of his agency's effort to atone for the ''terrible, unfortunate, regrettable'' data loss that appears certain to cost taxpayers much more than $20 million. However, once the data was recovered, the VA dropped the service. ''We are outraged that the administration would renege on its offer,'' said Bob Wallace, executive director of Veterans of Foreign Wars. ''There is no 100 percent assurance that the laptop was not compromised.'' [New York Times, 6/22/06; New York Times, 7/19/06]

Second VA Laptop Missing. "The VA reported that a desktop computer had disappeared [containing] unencrypted information on up to 38,000 patients at the medical centers, including their names, addresses, Social Security numbers, insurance information and claims data. Local police, VA officials and the FBI were investigating the disappearance, which Unisys had reported to the VA August 3. In recent weeks, the VA has also acknowledged losing sensitive data for more than 16,000 veterans in at least two other cases in Minneapolis and Indianapolis. [Facts on File, 8/10/06; AP, 8/9/06]

### Paid for and authorized by the Democratic National Committee, www.democrats.org. This communication is not authorized by any candidate or candidate's committee.

Bush Republicans

(Oklahoma's Bush Republicans include Congressman John Sullivan, Congressman Frank Lucas, Congressman Tom Cole, and Congressman Ernest Istook)

Bush Republicans have failed the American people. They continue to ignore a civil war in Iraq, they ignored a sexual predator in their ranks in Congress, and they refuse to hold anyone accountable for anything. It is time for a new direction.

Iraq

Iraq is in civil war, Afghanistan is in decline, and America's intelligence community says terrorism is getting worse.

The Republican Chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee says we need to change course in Iraq. He joins the entire intelligence community, the military, and the American people.

Everyone in America knows we must change course in Iraq-everyone but the Republicans who run the White House and the Congress.

President Bush is not protecting the American people. His government won't even read the mail of terrorists in prison to find out what they are saying. It is time for a change.

America deserves better than leaders who talk tough but don't act smart. Democrats have the tough AND smart policies to give the American people the real security they deserve.

Foley / Failed Republican Leadership

This Republican Congress has completely failed the nation. Americans did not expect much from the Republican leadership, but they did expect their kids to be kept safe.

Americans demand accountability for House Republican leaders who had evidence of a sexual predator in their ranks and chose to cover it up.

It is time for Republican leaders to testify under oath about what they knew, when they knew it, and why they didn't properly act.

Your Gas Tank and the GOP

As you fill up your gas tank for the weekend think about the strong probability that recent low prices are part of the GOP election strategy. In Norman last night at a Shell station the price was $2.09 a gallon. At the same station a couple of weeks ago it was nearly $3.00. (To track OKC gas prices go to http://www.oklahomacitygasprices.com/.

Read the following from Bob Woodward about oil price manipulation, the GOP, and elections.

Oil Price Manipulation as Part of GOP Election Strategy? Energy Industry
Today Offers Extended News Coverage of Bush Administration & Energy Prices

WASHINGTON, October 5 -- According to Bob Woodward, in 2004 Saudi
Ambassador Prince Bandar Bin Sultan promised George Bush that the Saudis
would help bring oil prices down before the election by increasing the
country's crude oil production.

Just weeks before this year's elections, oil prices have been falling fast
and several report