GILLIBRAND GIVES SEC TEETH

New York's very own Senator Kirsten Gillibrand has submitted a bill that would address the issue of insider trading. Insider trading by members of Congress anyway. The act is already illegal for everyone else though we rarely hear about the frequent cases that occur everyday.
  
This bill, should it survive the process and become law, would enable the SEC, Securities Exchange Commission, to prosecute our state and federal elected and appointed officials for insider-trading cases as well as make insider trading against the rules of the House and the Senate.
 
Who, if any of us, have faith in Congress to police itself? Yeah, I didn't think so.  As you can watch in the video above, Kirsten told Chris Wagge from the CBS Early Show that “it’s incumbent upon us to make the kinds of changes that the American people would expect we would make so that we live by the exact same exact rules that everyone else does. While there is disclosure now, it has to be illegal, just like it’s illegal for everyone else.”

GILIBRAND FENDS OFF ANOTHER

One of the few things that Paterson did right, was appoint Kristen Gillibrand to the Senate seat vacated by Secretary Clinton. Initially perceived as a gun toting, cow milking, upstate offspring of political parents, has morphed from an upstate red-neck to a very astute and political savy advocate for all new Yorkers.

Meanwhile, the ConservaDem from Tennessee hopped in his helicopter and made the journey to New York to challenge Kirsten in a Democratic primary. After a brief fluster in the press, and making a tour of the wealthiest homes in the state, Harold Ford has decided he doesn't have the support he thought he would.

After weeks of pressure from the White House, Senator Schumer and numerous party bosses, a prior Democratic challenger, Rep Carolyn Maloney, relinquished her attempt to primary Kirsten from the left. It seems Sen Gillibrand might make it through the gauntlet of Democratic challenges as we get closer to the closing days.

As of Monday morning, Harold Ford told the Washington Post: "I've examined this race in every possible way, and I keep returning to the same fundamental conclusion: If I run, the likely result would be a brutal and highly negative Democratic primary -- a primary where the winner emerges weakened and the Republican strengthened. I refuse to do anything that would help Republicans win a Senate seat in New York, and give the Senate majority to the Republicans."

Note to Harold: I think you would do much better in Kansas.

GILLIBRAND AT HRC DINNER 2010

This is a video of our Junior Senator, Kirsten Gillibrand at the February 6th GALA Dinner in NYC:

FLIP FLOP FORD

Harold Ford has a problem. Video tape. Just like so many politicians before him, he cant escape the fact that there are recordings of him venting his opinions on issues of great import. Issues that now prompt new revised opinions to match the new surroundings on which to run for office.

Remember John Kerry with his voting for the war before voting against? John McCain proposing to lower Medicare to 55 and letting our generals decide the repeal of DADT? The list is long and growing. That wont stop Harold Ford as he joins that list of flip floppers as he heads to New York.

You see, Harold had been beat up pretty badly by Steven Colbert last week for these glaring reasons of flip floppery. With a complete turnaround on his stance on women's reproductive rights, marriage equality, the middle class tax cuts and gun ownership it's easy to see why people see him as a convenient chameleon candidate for his Senate run against Gillibrand.

Having only registered to vote in NY just this fall, Ford was pounded by Colbert right from the beginning. Steven said; "Evidently, six minutes at my interview table counts as New York residency." Colbert was referring to the fact that he is a recent transplant from Tennessee where his prior values were more suited.

Colbert followed: "Again, I think this is a great thing, you're saying these things in the media capital of the world - New York City is "gotcha-town" and here you are saying come and gotcha me."

Ford retorted; "It's a changed position, I would agree with you."

The thing that troubles most of those who are paying attention is Ford wont disclose what he'd been doing at Merrill Lynch since his failed Senate run in 2006. You know; In the role of lobbyist (congressional liaison consultant) where he also enjoyed those well advertised bonuses that helped bury the company. Good track record.

With his uncle still in the big house, the Ford political machine has a family history that includes federal charges and insurance scams. My friends tell me about the booze, babes, bullets, ballot-stuffing, & barrelling down the highway that is synonymous with the whole gang. Even with the steadfast grooming by his father, Tennessee didn't want another Ford in the Senate. Why would New York?

I think in this atmosphere of public distrust for the Banking, Pharma and Insurance companies, Harold "the corporatist" Ford is going to feel the push back from New York democrats at the onset. He may as well move to Arizona and run against John McCain like everyone else is.

CAROLYN MALONEY WONT PRIMARY

For those of us who support Kirsten Gillibrand, we can stop planning for a primary challenge. It seems U.S. Rep. Carolyn Maloney said she won't take on Gillibrand next year.

Carolyn was the last of a short list of possible challengers who have since decided not to bother. Pressure from the folks in Washington as well as the daunting task of raising money in these tough economic times are two possible factors in her decision.

During an interview on NPR, She said her decision was based on a desire to deal with current challenges including health care reform, clean energy issues and the economy.

Maloney has been in Congress for almost 20 years and has been a champion on numerous social and safeguard issues during her tenure. As much as I admire her record, I have grown to appreciate the centrist positions demonstrated by Sen Gillibrand.

From what I've read, the Republicans have yet to embrace any candidates to face her in 2010. But there's still time.

http://www.kirstengillibrand.com/

CONGRESSWOMAN MALONEY REPEATS SLUR

The Freeman published an article from the AP bringing an issue to light about what you can and cant repeat when quoting another source.

New York Congresswoman Carolyn Maloney had to apologize for repeating a racial slur when she quoted another person during an interview. This time it was the 'N' word.

The AP article offered: "I apologize for having repeated a word I find disgusting," Maloney said. "It's no excuse, but I was so caught up in relaying the story exactly as it was told to me that, in doing so, I repeated a word that should never be repeated."

Maloney is is expected to be the primary challenger of Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand. Also from the AP: Maloney says she got a call from someone who used the slur in accusing Gillibrand of backing English-only public education.

So this could be simply a good learning experience for all of us. You don't repeat a number of words when recalling a past conversation. It just doesn't get past the bad taste that comes with the use. Its still offensive in every context. I recall a former Alderman used the 'C' word a while back. But we got past that, didn't we?

Maloney will learn from this as so many of us have learned from our own mistakes. As far as the english-only public education issue, there is plenty of rhetoric on both sides of that issue and should be dealt with without using racial slurs and foul language.

Gillibrand is just as open to helping elevate the education of all legal immigrants who come into this country. Immigrants are the foundation of this country and I think we all know that a good education helps to build a stronger America.

Question is, what was Carolyn Maloney thinking?

KIRSTEN GILLIBRAND PRESS RELEASE

July 15, 2009

Washington, D.C. - Today, as the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee passed comprehensive health reform legislation that includes a public option, U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand issued the following statement praising her colleagues and reinforcing the urgent need for the Senate to pass a bill that includes a public option:

"I want to commend my colleagues Chairman Edward M. Kennedy, Senator Chris Dodd, and all the Democrats on the HELP Committee for passing comprehensive health care reform legislation that includes a public option. They have shown the leadership necessary to seize the opportunity and make real progress to fix America's broken health care system.

"We can't afford to wait any longer to finish the job in the full Senate. More than 46 million Americans are uninsured. Health care costs are crippling businesses of all sizes and pushing families in every corner of America to the brink. It's time now to finally fix the broken health care system and pass comprehensive reform legislation.

"As I've said before, a not-for-profit, public plan option absolutely must be included in comprehensive health care reform. I will continue to push for a ‘Medicare for all' plan that anyone could buy into to ensure every American has access to quality, affordable health care regardless of income. In 2009, it is unconscionable that in the world's wealthiest nation, people are being dropped and turned away from coverage because of pre-existing conditions, and that families are just one illness away from bankruptcy.

"A public plan will compete with private insurers - improving quality, ensuring access in underserved areas, setting a standard for coverage and efficiency that private insurers would have to compete with, and lowering costs for everyone.

"The days of having nearly 50 million uninsured and another 25 million underinsured Americans must end. Our families and our economy can't afford us to wait any longer. A not-for-profit public plan that can cover anyone and lower costs for everyone is the only way to get the job done right."

SCOTT MURPHY FOR CONGRESS

Hunter Mountain, like so many other ski resorts, is impressive in any season. Early spring is no exception.

This past Saturday, after an afternoon of canvassing for Scott Murphy in Catskill, my friend Amee Peterson and I were invited to attend the "Meet Scott Murphy" event at the base lodge. The gorgeous setting was appropriate.

It was one of those rare moments when timing worked in our favor. A number of key guests were there as well as plenty of familiar faces from Ulster County and Kingston. We had joined what was considered a regional movement toward economical stewardship through the potential leadership of Scott Murphy.

Before 100+ attendees, Scott demonstrated how his meteoric rise in popularity took hold. His charisma, grasp of the issues and charming good looks have made this long shot seem inevitable.

Sure, I've followed the feeble attempt to link Scott with AIG bonuses and "All things depressing in NY" during the campaign, but when you meet the real deal in person...All of the negative rhetoric washes away.

Amee had his ear for quite a while after the speaking session and I just know Scott is aware of what she thinks of his opponent. I had to shake my head and smile while the immediate crowd nodded in agreement as she spoke. Funny stuff.

This special election has captured the attention of the nation. The values of the electorate in the 20th Congressional district are going to provide a platform for the election season to come. With a 2 to 1 Republican registry in the 20th district, the numbers were expected to be something other than 50/50.

March 31st is closer than you think, and yet this will feel like the longest yard. Why all the effort? Having someone help Maurice Hinchey, and John Hall in Congress is a worthy goal. There's comfort in knowing that Amee and I are not alone.

The district includes Delaware, Greene, Columbia and the northern half of Dutchess Counties. It also extends north-west of Albany.

WALKWAY OVER HUDSON: QUAD FUNDING

The Federal Omnibus Appropriations Bill includes $950,000 for the Walkway Over the Hudson!

With an extra push from Sen. Charles Schumer and Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand, this chunk of change will better prepare the historic Poughkeepsie-Highland railroad bridge into the world's longest elevated pedestrian walkways. Just in time for this years 400 year celebration.

If this funding survives the vetting process both on the floor of the Senate and House, then the fast track to the crossing is a sure thing.

Schumer quoted in the AP: “The Walkway Bridge is poised to become one of the greatest tourist attractions in New York, and its opening will be the culminating event of the Quadricentennial Celebration, we are taking a landmark piece of the Hudson Valley’s industrial past and turning it into something that will draw visitors from every corner of the state and beyond—providing terrific opportunities for our local businesses and delivering a shot-in-the-arm to the Hudson Valley economy.”

Senator Gillibrand said: “These federal dollars will go a long way in helping local business make the Hudson Valley a destination for families and businesses. I will continue to work with Senator Schumer to ensure that New York receives its fair share.”

State Assemblyman Frank Skartados heaped praise on our two DC reps and expressed continued support for the project in any way possible. Noting that this is the opportunity for tourism economic growth to really accelerate in the midhudson region. The 100th AD includes both Poughkeepsie and Lloyd.

PATAKI FOR U.S. SENATE?

I know, you think I'm crazy. But I'm not making this up.

One of the AP sources I follow, says George Pataki met with John Cornyn, the head of the Senate Republican campaign committee about possibly running for the Senate in 2010.

First approached by national Republicans, George has been rumoured to be testing the waters for a challenge to Gillibrand in 2010.

Keep in mind, the AP has no proof of a Senate run in the conversation, but why else would they meet?

I understand that with the leadership positions all but consumed with Democrats from Dog Catcher to President, the Republicans need a big name to set their come-back in motion. Is Pataki the one to do it?

Close friend and former Representative Tom Reynolds told the Gannett News: "Pataki is enjoying the private sector and spending time with his family, I just don’t know that George Pataki wants to pursue a senatorial race.”

Granted, we have time to watch the many possible candidates formulate their strategies, but you can count on Pataki visiting Kingston if this were the goal. Our own Mayor Jim Sottile bent over backwards to endorse and campaign for Pataki in 2002[right on the steps of City Hall]

The outcome of the Governor's race in 2010 between Giuliani and Cuomo will give George a good indication of what to expect from a Senatorial race in 2012.

SENATOR KIRSTEN GILLIBRAND

Congratulations to Kirsten Gillibrand! She has been chosen by our Governor, David Paterson to succeed Hillary Clinton as the Junior Senator for New York State.

I have no doubt that New York is in good hands, as both of Paterson's final two choices were tremendously qualified. Kisten is already in the nation's Capitol and quite familiar with the key players and the mechanisms that make the Senate function. So, the transition will be a non issue.

Andrew Cuomo is still our Attorney General and performs an impressive job in that capacity. Yes, I was leaning toward Andy, but for no other reason than having met him and knowing his political opinions better.

Now, Paterson will have to appoint a successor to Kirsten's seat in Congress. This will also become a more localised state wide concern rather than national since the seat represents a smaller portion on New York.

There will be no fewer candidates petitioning the Gov for this Congressional spot than the Senate seat, just a different lot to chose from. If I head upstate and get an apartment in that district, should I throw my hat in the ring and ask the Governor for an interview?

All joking aside, I have to offer my sincere congratulations to Kirsten Gillibrand on the Paterson choice, and the job well done for New York State so far.
May the task at hand fixing the state and national economy be your number one priority. Continue the great causes that Hillary left unfinished and help muster public support for Schumer's long term plan for rail service on the west side of the Hudson.

US SENATOR GILLIBRAND?

If you had noticed, many of the local papers have been speculating on the future of one of our US Representatives here in the upper Hudson Valley. Kirsten Gillibrand has been a media focus ever since Hillary was rumored to be picked as Secretary of State in the Obama cabinet.

Clinton’s departure leaves a tremendous void to be filled by someone just as dynamic. Could Kirsten achieve such a role?

Asked about speculation that she could be picked to succeed Clinton, Gillibrand replied: “That’s for the governor to decide.”

Indeed it is. I made this the base of a prior Blog Post with the focus on the joy of Clinton in the White House, but we really do have to consider, what does Gov. Dave think is the best option; something that helps the state and our economy? Or an appointment that better insures his re-election?

Gillibrand said she plans to advocate for investment in middle-class tax cuts, noting that property taxes are too high mostly due to unfunded mandates at the federal level as well as promote targeted tax credits for college tuition and early childhood education.

Quoted in the Freeman article: Kirsten will increase attention to infrastructure; roads, bridges, sewer and water systems, high-speed Internet access in rural areas and health-care information technology. She has also gotten health-care IT money for Columbia Memorial Hospital in Hudson because “mistakes are the biggest costs in health care.”

I have to point out, Gillibrand also said she would also like to see high-speed rail or light rail in the Hudson Valley. This sounds like she studied the DelaroseToSenate website. That was one of Larry’s babies.

Gillibrand has some well thought out views on alternative energy production and speaks openly against the super corporate bailouts that the Fed has been touting, so she may have enough spine after all.

If Dave were to appoint Kirsten to the Junior Senator seat, she may do New Yorkers just as much good as Chuck and Hillary have.

Keep your schedule open Kirsten.