A WEEK OF IDA, HEALTH CARE, AND THE KILLER AMENDMENT

A WEEK OF IDA, HEALTH CARE, AND THE KILLER AMENDMENT

By: Joshua W. Delano

Well it was long week full of ups and downs, ins and outs. LSU lost, the Saints won, and oh yeah...that evil Health Care Bill that may or may not help the many millions of Americans without health care insurance passed a major hurdle.

While waiting on the Shell Mars platform over the past several days monitoring Tropical Storm Ida, then Hurricane Ida...now Tropical Storm Ida again, it seems I was the only one on the rig interested in CSPAN and the monumental health care reform legislation. Thankfully, yesterday helicopters were sent out to evacuate the personnel from most if not all oil rigs in the Gulf of Mexico.

The debate was full of crazies from both parties. Some bringing children on the floor, and then being scolded for doing so. Others, were really preachy, loud, and excited about the bill and all the historic grandiosity they and the bill carried along with it.

Meanwhile some of the GOP were out on the steps of the Capitol holding rallies, throwing papers all over the place as well as a broad range of theatrics involving screaming about the apocalyptic nature of this deadly legislation.

In the end after much grandstanding and ridiculousness on the House floor and the Capitol steps, the vote passed 220-215. One of those "aye" votes was Louisiana's own Republican Congressman Ahn Cao. He was the sole Republican member of the House to vote yes for the Democrat led legislation.

On one hand it's brining Cao a great deal of press. On the other hand, the GOP and conservatives across the nation are more than a little ticked. I keep waiting to hear a collective chant of 'crucify him!'

Cao voted for the Stupak amendment specifying federal funds could not and would not be used to fund abortions. The Stupak amendment was supposed to bring at least 40 moderate Democrats and maybe a Republican or two into the fold according to Rep. Stupak. If the Stupad Amendment passed, those votes, according to Stupak's logic would translate into votes for the health care legislation, also being dubbed "Pelosi's Bill."

Around 20 of those moderate Democrats voted for the health care bill, and Congressman Cao, the lone Republican. As a result of Cao's vote, Democrats were telling the press after the bill's passage that this was a bi-partisan bill. The Capitol press managed a collective giggle now that 214 Democrats and 1 Republican is considered bi-partisan.

Now the Stupak Amendment may be stripped from the House bill and is causing rumbling from Senator Mary Landrieu and other moderate Democrats in the Senate. It

likely Cao is feeling a little bamboozled by President Obama after their recent meeting in New Orleans before the President's UNO town hall.

It may not be the case, but it sure looks like President Obama and Speaker Pelosi tag teamed the Freshman Congressman Cao and pulled the old bait and switch in order to get his vote.

Even if Cao got hustled, he still did the right thing as far as his district is concerned. New Orleans' 2nd district voted overwhelmingly for Obama last year. If Cao has any hope of being re-elected, this was the right political move to give him a chance to keep his seat.

Thus, the Stupak Amendment in the House could very well become a killer amendment to the upcoming Senate Bill. The Obama Administration doesn't appear pleased that the divisive abortion issue could torpedo health care reform legislation on the Senate side.

Now the GOP has newfound life and will be shouting the abortion buzzword from here on out in a hope to further label health care reform as the devil's work.

I'm just glad to be back on dry land and not on an oil rig in the middle of a hurricane, or tropical storm...or whatever it'll be 10 minutes from now.

One thing will remain constant whether or not the health care legislation passes in the Senate. Insurance companies will make money, there will be no co-op plan, and there will still be Americans left uncovered because they cannot afford the new and improved health care that still won't cover everyone.

As usual, the American people will be the ones who were sold a 'Public Option," that still leaves many poor and unemployed without an option.

God bless and help us all, for He is the only constant in a world where mankind is so duplicitous and inconsistent.

Cao Suckered? Anti-Abortion Measure Likely to Be Stripped from Bill...

Senior Democrat is 'confident' that Stupak amendment will be stripped
By Michael O'Brien - 11/09/09 11:50 AM ET
A House Democratic leader said Monday she's “confident” controversial language on abortion will be stripped from a final healthcare bill.

Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D-Fla.), the Democrats’ chief deputy whip in the House, said that she and other pro-abortion rights lawmakers would work to strip the amendment included in the House health bill that bars federal funding from subsidizing abortions.

“I am confident that when it comes back from the conference committee that that language won't be there,” Wasserman Schultz said during an appearance on MSNBC. “And I think we're all going to be working very hard, particularly the pro-choice members, to make sure that's the case.”

The amendment, offered by Rep. Bart Stupak (D-Mich.), won the support of Republicans and dozens of centrist Democrats in the House, but revealed a deep divide in the Democratic caucus over abortion.



Sixty-four Democrats voted for Stupak’s amendment, without which the House healthcare bill would not have won final passage in a 220-215 vote.

Stupak’s language not only prohibits abortion coverage in the public insurance option included in the House bill. It would also prevent private plans from offering coverage for abortion services if they accept people who are receiving government subsidies.

Allowing the vote represented a major concession by Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) to Stupak and other anti-abortion rights Democrats who had threatened to oppose the bill. But it came at the cost of angering liberals in the Democratic Caucus.

Abortion-rights supporters called it a “de facto” abortion ban and mounted an intense but unsuccessful lobbying campaign against it.

Rep. Diana DeGette (D-Colo.) said Monday she expected a meeting with President Barack Obama next week to press her case against the Stupak amendment. DeGette, the co-chairwoman of the Congressional Pro-Choice Caucus, circulated a letter with the signatures of 40 other House lawmakers vowing to vote against any conference report that still contains the amendment.

The conference between the House and Senate bills after the upper chamber passes its bill will present an opportunity to strip the Stupak amendment, and liberal Democrats have vowed to work hard to get rid of that language during that stage of the legislation.

“It was extremely painful for me to feel compelled to vote for a bill that contained that kind of restriction on a woman's ability to make her own reproductive choices,” Wasserman Schultz said.

Republicans over the weekend signaled they’d seek similar language in the Senate bill, while several centrist Democrats are already wavering on the bill.

It’s not clear how the abortion debate could impact a final vote in the House on the healthcare bill, but it could be difficult for many of the centrists who supported Stupak’s amendment to vote for a healthcare bill that did not include his language.

In addition, the only Republican who voted for the legislation, Rep. Joseph Cao (La.), said the Stupak amendment cleared the way for him to support the legislation.

But it’s also possible liberals could drop their support for the bill if the language is not changed.



Source:
http://thehill.com/blogs/blog-briefing-room/news/66969-senior-dem-confident-stupak-amendment-will-be-stripped

John Georges Leades in Bi-Partisan Support, Campaign Finance Reports Released Today

John Georges Leads In Bi-Partisan Support,
Campaign Finance Reports Released Today

New Orleans - On the heels of a successful fundraiser and diversely packed announcement, John Georges is pleased to announce that his broad range of support is increasing all across the city. Another sign of success is the finance disclosure released today which shows that the Georges for Mayor Campaign has brought in $532,870 in contributions from Democrats and Republicans.


"This is a great first step. It shows that voters believe in my candidacy. It's clear that people are looking for change. They are looking for a strong leader to move us forward, someone who is prepared for the hard work and challenges that lie ahead, and someone who is fair, honest, and trustworthy to unite our city," Georges said.

Georges officially announced his candidacy last week before a large and diverse crowd at L'il Dizzy's Restaurant in historic Treme. Tonight he heads to Lakeview to listen to concerns from neighbors there. The Lakeview meeting takes place tonight at 6 p.m. at Nola Beans Coffee House, 762 Harrison Avenue.


Media Contact:
Liz Reyes
504-491-9691

JOHN GEORGES LAKEVIEW MEETING REMAINS SCHEDULED, GEORGES TO HEAR CONCERNS ABOUT STORM PROTECTION, CRIME AND BLIGHT

JOHN GEORGES LAKEVIEW MEETING REMAINS SCHEDULED, GEORGES TO HEAR CONCERNS ABOUT STORM PROTECTION, CRIME AND BLIGHT

NEW ORLEANS - New Orleans Mayoral Candidate John Georges will meet with Lakeview residents Monday, November 9th, at 6 pm at the Nola Beans Coffee Shop at 762 Harrison Avenue. The meeting remains scheduled since Hurricane Ida is weakening and turning towards the northeast.

Many Lakeview neighbors say they remain frustrated with the lack of progress on attacking crime and fixing the potholes on their streets. Also, Ida is just another reminder that storm protection and preparedness remains a top concern. Georges will hear first hand, neighbors suggestions to fix the problems.

The Lakeview gathering comes less than a week after Georges formally announced his candidacy for Mayor of New Orleans before a packed, diverse crowd at L'il Dizzy's Café in the historic Treme District.

Media Contact:
Liz Reyes
504-491-9691

Vitter and Veterans: Vitter Skipped Vote on Providing Health Care for Iraq and Afganistan Vets

701 Government Street

Baton Rouge, Louisiana 70802

(225)336-4155

(225)336-0046 – fax

communications@lademo.org





For Immediate Release CONTACT: Kevin Franck

November 9, 2009 (225) 336-4155




Vitter and Veterans: Vitter Skipped Vote on Providing Health Care for Iraq and Afghanistan Vets



In 2007, Vitter went ‘AWOL,’ missing key votes on veterans and national security



(Baton Rouge) After confirming that he patronized a Washington, DC brothel, David Vitter missed key national security votes in the U.S. Senate, including one provision to expand research and treatment of traumatic brain injury and post-traumatic stress disorder for veterans returning from Iraq and Afghanistan.



“As we approach Veteran’s Day, it’s important to remember that two years ago, David Vitter chose to go AWOL instead of standing up for the brave men and women who have served in our nation’s armed services,” said Louisiana Democratic Party spokesman Kevin Franck.



After Vitter’s phone number was found in the records of the DC Madam, Louisiana’s junior Senator went “more or less AWOL,” according to the Times-Picayune. The Baton Rouge Advocate reported that Vitter missed at least seven key votes on a bill to authorize all Defense Department funding for 2008 in the immediate aftermath of his confession. [Times-Picayune, 2/23/08; Advocate, 7/14/07]



Among the votes Vitter missed was a provision that authorized funds for the treatment of traumatic brain injury and post-traumatic stress disorder. The same provision eliminated a requirement that severance pay be deducted from disability compensation for disabilities incurred in a combat zone.



Vitter also missed several votes on limiting the length of combat deployments and increasing the minimum amount of time service members get at home between deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan. Vitter also missed two votes concerning the threat posed to the U.S. by Iran and one on increasing the reward for the capture of Osama Bin Laden.



###



Paid for by the Louisiana Democratic Party, 701 Government Street, Baton Rouge, LA 70802. This communication is not authorized by any candidate or candidate’s committee.



FACT SHEET: VITTER MISSED KEY MILITARY, VETERANS VOTES

Times-Picayune: Vitter Went “AWOL” for Seven Months Following DC Madam Scandal. In 2008, a Times-Picayune editorial reported that Vitter re-emerged in public after seven months of staying out of the spotlight following the DC Madam scandal. The editorial wrote, “Vitter has been more or less AWOL from the home front ever since last summer.” [Times-Picayune Editorial, 2/23/08]

In 2007, Vitter Missed Seven Votes For Defense Bill Over DC Madam Scandal. In 2007, Vitter went into seclusion with his family for a week following his admission to involvement in the DC Madam scandal and he missed several defense votes during that time. According to the Advocate, “Vitter missed seven votes in the Senate last week on the defense authorization bill.” [The Advocate, 7/14/07]

Vitter Failed to Vote on Providing Care For Wounded Warriors. The Levin amendment that Vitter missed would establish a Defense Department and Veterans Affairs Interagency Program Office to implement a joint electronic health record system and eliminate the current requirement that severance pay be deducted from disability compensation for disabilities incurred in a combat zone. It would authorize $50 million for the treatment and rehabilitation of service members with traumatic brain injury or post-traumatic stress disorder and create common disability ratings to determine those eligible for care. The amendment was agreed to 94-0. [CQ; Vote 246, 7/12/07]

Vitter Failed to Vote on Establishing Minimum Home Stays Between Deployments. The amendment Vitter missed would require that U.S. troops get at least as much time at home as they spent on their last deployment to Iraq or Afghanistan. The plan also stipulated that for members of the National Guard and Reserve, the deployment to period at home minimum ratio would be 1-to-3. The motion to invoke cloture failed 56-41, and subsequently the Webb amendment was withdrawn. [Richmond Times Dispatch, 7/10/07; Vote 241, 7/11/07]

Vitter Failed to Vote on Limiting Length of Deployment for Armed Forces for Operation Iraqi Freedom. The Hagel amendment that Vitter missed would limit the length of troop deployments in Iraq, with certain exceptions, beginning 120 days after enactment. It would limit the deployment of soldiers in the Army and Army National Guard to 12 consecutive months. Active duty and reserve Marines would be limited to deployments of seven consecutive months. It also would allow the president to waive the provision in times of national emergency. The amendment was rejected 52-45 (three-fifths majority was necessary). [CQ; Vote 243, 7/11/07]

Vitter Failed to Vote on Sense of Congress on Limiting Deployments. The Graham amendment Vitter missed would express the sense of Congress that the goal for operational deployments should be no more than 15 months for active duty members of the armed forces and no more than 12 months for reservists, as consistent with military requirements. The amendment was rejected 41-55. (three-fifths majority was necessary). [CQ; Vote 244, 7/11/07]

Vitter Failed to Vote on Requiring Report on Iranian Support for Attacks on Coalition Forces in Iraq. The amendment Vitter missed would require the commander of multinational forces in Iraq and the U.S. ambassador to Iraq, in coordination with the director of national intelligence, to submit a report on support provided by the Iranian government for attacks against coalition forces in Iraq. The amendment would clarify that nothing in the section shall be construed to authorize the use of force against Iran. The amendment was agreed to 97-0. [CQ; Vote 242, 7/11/07]

Vitter Failed to Vote on Stating Policy on Iranian Ballistic Missiles. The Sessions amendment Vitter missed would make it official U.S. policy to develop and deploy a defense against the ballistic missile threat from Iran as soon as technologically possible and in conjunction with U.S. allies and other nations. The amendment was agreed to 90-5. [CQ; Vote 245, 7/12/07]

Vitter Failed to Vote on Increasing the Reward for Bin Laden’s Capture. The Dorgan amendment that Vitter missed would increase the reward for the capture of Osama bin Laden to $50 million and require that intelligence leaders submit quarterly reports to Congress on the status of capturing al Qaeda leaders. The amendment was agreed to 87-1. [CQ; Vote 247, 7/13/07]

Cao Votes for "Life"; Achieves Legislation to Protect the Health of All Americans

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

November 7, 2009 CONTACT: Princella D. Smith (202)-821-5063







Cao Votes for “Life”; Achieves Legislation to Protect the Health of All Americans







Washington, DC - Tonight, Congressman Anh “Joseph” Cao (LA-2) voted in favor of the comprehensive health reform bill, H.R. 3962, the Affordable Health Care for America Act.



Of his vote, Cao said: “Tonight, I voted to keep taxpayer dollars from funding abortion and to deliver access to affordable health care to the people of Louisiana.



Cao said: “I read the versions of the House [health reform] bill. I listened to the countless stories of Orleans and Jefferson Parish citizens whose health care costs are exploding – if they are able to obtain health care at all. Louisianans needs real options for primary care, for mental health care, and for expanded health care for seniors and children.



The bill passed the House at a 220-215 vote.



Cao said: “Today, I obtained a commitment from President Obama that he and I will work together to address the critical health care issues of Louisiana including the FMAP crisis and community disaster loan forgiveness, as well as issues related to Charity and Methodist Hospitals. And, I call on my constituents to support me as I work with him on these issues.



Cao said: “I have always said that I would put aside partisan wrangling to do the business of the people. My vote tonight was based on my priority of doing what is best for my constituents.



H.R. 3962 included the Stupak-Pitts Amendment, which will keep in place current federal law on abortion funding and conscience protections for health care providers.



Cao said: “Before the Stupak-Pitts amendment was adopted as part of this health reform bill, the bill failed to explicitly include the longstanding policy prohibiting federal funding of elective abortion and plans which include elective abortion.”



According to a letter from the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops dated November 7, 2009, “The [Stupak-Pitts] Amendment will not affect coverage of abortion in nonsubsidized health plans, and will not bar anyone from purchasing a supplemental abortion policy with their own funds.”



Cao said: “Thank to the Stupak-Pitts Amendment, taxpayer dollars will not go to supporting elective abortions, and for thousands of my constituents, this was a top priority. By incorporating this amendment into the health reform bill, my colleagues and I made this bill better, and that is an achievement of which I will always be proud.”



Archbishop Gregory M. Aymond, the archbishop of New Orleans, said: “I am grateful to Congressman Cao for his courage and determination to defend life. I appreciate his work to prevent abortion from being included in health care reform and for protecting conscience rights of health care professionals. I – and, I am sure, many in New Orleans would join me – [I] appreciate Congressman Cao's commitment to the people of New Orleans."




###



Princella Smith

Communications Director

Congressman Anh "Joseph" Cao (LA-2)

2113 Rayburn HOB
Washington, DC 20515

http://josephcao.house.gov/



Main: 202-225-6636

Direct: 202-225-3117

E-mail: princella.smith@mail.house.gov

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Alexander Releases Statement on House Passage of Health Care Reform Bill

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE November 7, 2009

CONTACT: Jamie Hanks (202) 225-8490

Alexander Releases Statement on House Passage of Health Care Reform Bill

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Rep. Rodney Alexander, R-Quitman, today issued the following remarks after voting against the trillion-dollar government takeover, H.R. 3962 the Affordable Health Care for American Act:



“After months of attending town halls and contacting Members of Congress, the American public demonstrated their strong opposition to this government takeover of health care. Millions called on Washington to pass responsible health care reform. Unfortunately, it seems their requests went unanswered by supporters of H.R. 3962.



“Despite the public outcry in the communities across the nation, the U.S. House of Representatives passed H.R. 3962 today. I voted against the measure with 215 of my colleagues; however, we were outnumbered by five.



“This legislation includes the unpopular government-run ‘public option,’ cuts Medicare benefits for seniors, and raises taxes on middle class families. In addition, H.R 3962 does not protect the interests of small businesses nor does it adequately address defensive medicine. In the midst of states struggling with fiscal constraints, it will burden them with more unfunded mandates from the federal government.



“At a time when we need to control spending, lower our deficit, and institute tax breaks that will help our citizens, this bill does just the opposite.



“Our country needs a different direction for our health care delivery system – one focused on empowering our citizens to truly own and control their health coverage. A solution needs to be built upon the principle that when individuals – not the government, insurance companies, or employers – are given control and ownership, we will achieve full access to coverage and see the entire system move in a more positive, patient-centered direction.



“Some might see today as a political victory. But to me, it represents the day the concerns of millions of Americans went ignored.”

###

Rep. Melancon Comments on Vote Against House Health Care Bill

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT:

Nov. 7, 2009 Robin Winchell (202) 226-5220



**Radio Actuality Attached**

Rep. Melancon Comments on Vote Against House Health Care Bill

Cites Concerns with Cost of bill, Public Option



WASHINGTON— U.S. Congressman Charlie Melancon (LA-03) made the following statement tonight after he voted against the Affordable Health Care for America Act (H.R. 3962) in the U.S. House of Representatives:



“I’ll work with anyone, or stand up to anyone, when it comes to what's best for Louisiana. And the healthcare bill I voted against today in the House doesn't work for Louisiana.



“In these tough economic times, we've got to be smarter about getting government spending and the deficit under control, and the House's health care bill simply costs too much.



“And I can’t support a government-run insurance option that the people of Louisiana don't want.



“In the coming months, I will keep listening to folks in Louisiana and working with people from both sides of the aisle.



“And I’ll keep working for smarter, more fiscally-responsible, market-based healthcare reforms that protect the sanctity of life.



“Together, we will find a way to make health care more affordable and accessible for all Louisianians, and bring down the rising cost of health care in this country.”

House Health Care Bill Stands To Worsen Unemployment Rate

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE November 6, 2009

CONTACT: Jamie Hanks (202) 225-8490

House Health Care Bill Stands to Worsen Unemployment Rate

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Rep. Rodney Alexander, R-Quitman, today issued the following remarks after the U.S. Department of Labor reported that the unemployment rate hit 10.2 percent with the nation’s economy losing 190,000 jobs in October:



“With the unemployment rate reaching a level we have not seen since April 1983, America needs economic relief in the form of tax breaks for working families and small businesses, and fiscal discipline in Washington.



“Instead, our federal government keeps pushing policies that will impose harmful taxes and increase our national debt, saddling Americans who are already hurting with even more financial burdens.



“For instance, H.R. 3962, the trillion dollar health care reform bill, will be financed through numerous tax increases on middle class families and small businesses.



“In addition, the House Majority changed a key budgetary offset in the manager’s amendment to the health overhaul bill, adding new language that would prevent paper producers from claiming an alternative-energy tax credit for the production of ‘black liquor,’ an energy source used by paper plants in the production process. This credit does, in fact, help our paper plants in Louisiana.



“Small businesses are the backbone of our economy. In the place of providing them essential tools to make them stronger, Congress is choosing to penalize business owners further, costing even more Americans their jobs.



“As I have said before, and as I will say again, I will not support any type of health reform plan that raises taxes, rations health care, eliminates employer-sponsored health benefits for working families, or allows government bureaucrats to make decisions that should be made by families and their doctors.



“We must support real solutions that will help create jobs and lower health care costs. Our country’s families have suffered long enough. It is time to get our nation back to work.”



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Rep. Melancon Introduces Bill to Block FDA's Gulf Oyster Ban

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT:

Nov. 6, 2009 Robin Winchell (202) 226-5220



Rep. Melancon Introduces Bill to Block FDA’s Gulf Oyster Ban

Bill Would Prohibit Federal Funds for Implementing Proposed Ban



WASHINGTON— U.S. Congressman Charlie Melancon (LA-03) has introduced legislation to prevent the U.S. Food and Drug Administration from using federal funds to implement a proposed ban on the sale of fresh, live oysters from Gulf Coast states during warm-weather months unless they are processed. The ban, which would begin in 2011, would severely impact Louisiana’s oyster and restaurant industries, major sectors of the state’s economy.



“A government regulation banning the sale of fresh Gulf oysters makes about as much sense as bureaucrats telling Louisianians how to make a roux,” said Rep. Melancon. “This proposed ban is a clear example of federal regulation run amok, and would cripple Louisiana’s seafood and tourism industries. Fresh oysters from the Gulf are part of our state’s unique culture, and I am introducing legislation that will prevent the FDA from implementing this harmful policy.”



The Gulf Oyster Protection Act (H.R. 4022) would block any funds the FDA receives from being used to implement or enforce any new rules requiring post-harvest processing treatments for oysters in relation to Vibrio vulnificus. Senator Mary Landrieu (D-LA) has introduced a companion bill in the Senate.



Last week, Rep. Melancon sent a letter to the FDA’s Deputy Director for Food Safety, Donald W. Kraemer, requesting that he meet with Louisiana oyster industry representatives to further discuss the negative consequences of this new policy.



On Wednesday, Senator Landrieu and Congressman Melancon announced that the FDA has agreed to a meeting with Gulf Coast Senators and Representatives to discuss their opposition to the proposed ban. The meeting will be next Tuesday, November 10th.



The Louisiana oyster industry currently employs 3,500 Louisianians and has an estimated $318 million impact on the state.



Last year, there were more than 87 million cases of food-related illnesses, 371,000 hospitalizations and 5,700 deaths. However, only 15 individuals with pre-existing conditions died from eating raw oysters last year, out of over a billion servings consumed.

# # #

Cao Defends Unborn During Special Order

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT: Princella Smith (202)-821-5063





Cao Defends the Unborn During Special Order



Washington, D.C. - Tonight, Congressman Anh “Joseph” Cao (LA-2) participated in a special order led by the Congressional Pro-Life Caucus to defend the lives of the unborn by insisting that House leadership include stronger language prohibiting the federal funding of abortion in the House health care bill, H.R. 3962, the Affordable Health Care for America Act.



In a speech on the House floor, Cao said: “Abortion is a destructive and injurious perversion of our society; it is a distorted emphasis on rights to the disregard of individual responsibility.”



Cao has held several conversations with the White House insisting the current provisions in the bill do not adequately protect the life of the unborn.



Full text and video here: http://josephcao.house.gov/News/DocumentSingle.aspx?DocumentID=153385





###



Princella Smith

Communications Director

Congressman Anh "Joseph" Cao (LA-2)

2113 Rayburn HOB
Washington, DC 20515

http://josephcao.house.gov/



Main: 202-225-6636

Direct: 202-225-3117

E-mail: princella.smith@mail.house.gov

SIGN UP FOR OUR E-NEWSLETTER!

Louisiana Congressman Steve Scalise Lauds Saints Before Congressional Hearing

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT

http://www.neworleanssaints.com/Articles/2009/11/Scalise.aspx



Louisiana Congressman Steve Scalise Lauds Saints Before Congressional Hearing

NewOrleansSaints.com
Wednesday, November 4, 2009 - 5:50 PM

Below are portions of entire statements from Louisiana Congressman Steve Scalise before the Subcommittee on Commerce, Trade, and Consumer Protection Committee on Energy and Commerce

November 3, 2009

"Thank you, Mr. Chairman.

Sports are part of our culture and part of the very social fabric of our nation. Unfortunately, we have recently seen how performance enhancing drugs can cast a cloud over athletes and jeopardize the integrity of sports.

Professional athletes in particular bear a special responsibility. Whether they like it or not, professional athletes are role models. They have a great deal of influence over young people and have the ability to provide a positive impact upon their local communities. We have seen this first hand in Southeast Louisiana. We have seen the influence a league, a team, and its players can have.

The NFL has been committed to helping New Orleans and the Gulf Coast region since Hurricane Katrina. By the end of 2005, the league had raised well over $20 million. Commissioner Goodell, on behalf of my constituents and those that have been helped by the NFL in our region, thank you for your hard work and for the NFL’s strong commitment to our recovery.

I also want to thank you for selecting New Orleans as the host of the Super Bowl in 2013. This will be the 10th Super Bowl we’ve hosted, and is yet another bright sign that New Orleans is still a world-class city that can host major events. And it is another milestone in our recovery.

The Saints organization must also be commended for the support they have shown to the city and state they call home. Following Hurricane Katrina, the Saints set up a relief fund that provided much needed resources to charities around our region. They also made a commitment to return to New Orleans after not being able to play a single game in the city during the 2005 season.

In 2006 at their first game back in New Orleans, the Saints showed what a team can do for a city and for its fans. The atmosphere that September night in the Superdome was electric as the Saints started their most successful season in franchise history, at least until now, with a resounding victory over the Atlanta Falcons.

More importantly, the Saints gave the people of Louisiana hope that their way of life was slowly returning to normal. They galvanized our region and provided a much needed boost and distraction from the difficult recovery process. I am proud to have the Saints headquartered in my district.

The spirit and generosity of the New Orleans Saints start at the top with its owner, Tom Benson, and his wife, Gayle, and Tom’s granddaughter, Rita Benson LeBlanc, who is also Owner and Executive Vice President. They have dedicated countless hours and resources to helping the people of our region. In 2008, the Volunteers of America recognized Tom Benson as the recipient of its annual Good Samaritan Award in Philanthropy in recognition of his “incomparable efforts to rebuild the region following Hurricane Katrina.”

And we have seen the same generosity from the Saints’ players. Drew Brees has become actively engaged in the community along with his wife, Brittany, through their Brees Dream Foundation, which is dedicated to helping advance cancer research, and providing care, education, and opportunities for children in need. Since its founding, the Brees Drew Foundation has raised and/or committed over $4.5 million to help advance cancer research and help rebuild schools, parks, playgrounds and athletic fields in New Orleans and other communities.

Drew has participated in USO tours to the Persian Gulf, Japan, and Guantanamo Bay, and he also serves on the Board of Directors of the National World War II Museum in New Orleans. In recognition of his efforts off the field, Drew was named the 2006 Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year. Drew is a true humanitarian, and we are proud to have him as a member of the New Orleans community.

There are other proud examples of the positive impact NFL athletes can have on our local community. Reggie Bush rebuilt Tad Gormley Stadium’s field, which hosts many high school football games in New Orleans. And we all know the positive impact the entire Manning family has had for decades inspiring the youth of our region.

Mr. Chairman, Southeast Louisiana is a prime example of the influence professional sports can have on a community and region, especially during one of its most difficult periods. The efforts of the NFL, the Saints, and its players are a testament to the integrity of sports…an integrity that should be protected so it does not become jeopardized by the dangers of performance enhancing drugs."

Vitter: talk with rape victim not a "confrontation"

Vitter: talk with rape victim not a "confrontation"

From Politico:



Sen. David Vitter (R-La.) told POLITICO that he didn't think his recent flap with a rape victim in Baton Rouge amounted to a confrontation.

"I didn't consider it a confrontation on my part," Vitter said when asked if he regretted the confrontation.
…
Vitter disputed the woman's interpretation of his vote, and engaged in what seemed to be a heated exchange, and then abruptly Vitter left the facility.






Vitter: talk with rape victim not a "confrontation"
From my colleague Manu Raju:

Sen. David Vitter (R-La.) told POLITICO that he didn't think his recent flap with a rape victim in Baton Rouge amounted to a confrontation.

"I didn't consider it a confrontation on my part," Vitter said when asked if he regretted the confrontation.

But he added that "any incident" like the one described by the rape victim is "absolutely horrific."

"It's just a very, very sad case."

Last Saturday, a rape victim approached Vitter at a Baton Rouge town hall and questioned his decision to vote against an amendment that proponents said would allow victims of sexual assault to take the cases to court, rather than through arbitration. She told Vitter that the person who attacked her was only put behind bars because she took him to court.

Vitter disputed the woman's interpretation of his vote, and engaged in what seemed to be a heated exchange, and then abruptly Vitter left the facility.

Since then, Democrats who are targeting Vitter in next year's Senate race have sought to capitalize on the flap and the Louisiana Democratic Party hosted a press conference call this week with the woman. A YouTube video of the incident has been viewed more than 160,000 times.

Vitter said it's "obvious" that Democrats were using the episode to score political points.

Asked if that was the woman's motivation, Vitter said: "I have no idea, but certainly a case like hers is absolutely horrific."

Vitter wouldn't say whether he planned to reach out to her - only that he hadn't talked to her since the flap.

Posted by Glenn Thrush 07:14 PM

The Young Turks Get it Right Re Fort Hood Shootings

Look folks, i'm not a terrorist sympathizer by any means....so just let me get that out there. I'm a proud gun-owner, hunter

If some terrorists, KKK, white supremecists (remember Timothy McKveigh) or really any other enemies who threatened the liberty of my friends, family or neighbors invaded my hometown or home, I'd be the first to offer a free .45 magnum lesson of diplomacy. Likewise, I wish I was in the interrogation room right now with the assailants responsible for the act of cowardice displayed at Fort Hood yesterday. In short, it wouldn't be nice.

However, I must agree with Cenk on The Young Turks that Fox News has one set of rules for white Americans and another for minorities, especially Muslim and/or Arab-Americans. Just watch the analysis and if you wanna view more I defintely recommend you check out http://www.theyoungturks.com/

My prayers are with the souls of the victims of the Fort Hood shootings as well as their families. God bless and keep them as we honor their memory.

BUFFOON BLAKELY SHOULD APOLOGIZE TO NEW ORLEANS

BUFFOON BLAKELY SHOULD APOLOGIZE TO NEW ORLEANS



By Jeff Crouere



November 6, 2009 ….Former New Orleans Recovery Director Ed Blakely has done it again. He has made condescending, racist and inflammatory comments that are harmful to the City of New Orleans . In a TV interview Blakely said that New Orleans residents are “racists” and that white people sense “blood in the water” post-Katrina and are working to take back political power. Blakely warned that white were trying to “put their foot back on black people’s throats,” and that race riots were possible. These comments were irresponsible and completely divisive. Blakely laments racism, but continues to make comments which exacerbate race problems. His ludicrous statements were reckless and vast generalizations about the white community in New Orleans . Blakely owes an apology to all citizens of New Orleans and especially to white citizens, many of whom have worked with other racial and ethnic groups to rebuild the city.



In the interview, Blakely criticized city workers, blasted the state and federal government and blamed everyone else for the slow recovery. He refused to face the reality that he made the problem much worse by his lack of leadership.



Blakely was hired as Recovery Director, yet he continued to live in Australia and only worked in New Orleans part-time. It is no surprise that recovery has been slow for Blakely spent much of his time as Recovery Director flying all over the world and making frequent forays back to his family in Australia . It was ludicrous for New Orleans Mayor Ray Nagin to hire a person who lived in Australia for such an important position. Being Recovery Director is a full-time job which required a full-time presence in New Orleans . Blakely could never fulfill the requirements of his job partly because he was not in the office enough.



Adding insult to injury, Blakely was paid an outrageous salary of $475,000 for incomplete and incompetent work. He should be thankful for the opportunity to lead the recovery of one of the world’s most unique cities, yet he is more interested in trashing New Orleans . In interviews with the New York Times and other media outlets, Blakely claimed New Orleans is a “third world country,” with an “economy entirely made up of t-shirts that is our major import and export.” For good measure, he claimed that people here were “insular,” and “buffoons.” The real buffoons are Blakely and his boss Mayor Nagin who have harmed the recovery effort by their incendiary and racist comments.



In this TV interview, Blakely said that New Orleans “isn’t likely” to be around in 100 years due to the threat of hurricanes and the Mississippi River . This kind of defeatist statement will not encourage any business to invest in New Orleans , so it seems Blakely is trying to sabotage economic recovery.



Since New Orleans has survived for 300 years, there is no doubt it can flourish if people work together to address flood protection and coastal erosion problems. Without action, Blakely’s prediction will come true, but anyone who loves New Orleans obviously believes that the city can not only be saved, but also can prosper in the future.





Overall, Blakely was an embarrassment from the day he arrived in New Orleans , a perfect compliment to Mayor Nagin. Both of them over promised and under delivered and in the process made a fool of themselves with asinine comments.



Thankfully, Blakely has left town and the countdown to the end of the Nagin era has already started. Unfortunately, this dynamic duo of incompetence and arrogance seriously hindered the recovery of New Orleans . Blakely and Nagin made the job of Mayor much tougher for the next person who will have to clean up the mess they left behind.





Jeff Crouere is the Host of “Ringside Politics,” which airs at 7:30 p.m. Fri. and 10:00 p.m. Sun. on WLAE-TV 32, a PBS station, and 7 till 11 a.m. weekdays on WGSO 990 AM in New Orleans and the Northshore. He is the Political Analyst for WGNO-TV ABC26 and a Columnist for selected publications. For more information, visit his web site at RingsidePolitics.com. E-mail him at jeff@ringsidepolitics.com.