Monthly Archives: January 2009

The Very Sudden Departure of Michael Festa

Posted on January 31, 2009 by billmanzi

The Patrick Administration announced yesterday the resignations of Secretary of Economic Affairs Daniel O’Connell and Secretary of Elder Affairs Michael Festa, O’Connell will be replaced by Greg Bialecki. Festa’s portfolio was reduced in the new budget submitted by Governor Patrick, … Continue reading →

Posted in State News | Tagged , | 3 Comments

President Signs Pro Labor Executive Orders

Posted on January 31, 2009 by billmanzi

President Barack Obama has signed a series of executive orders designed to “level the political playing field” for unions. From MSNBC: In another move favorable to organized labor, the president signed three executive orders that union officials say will undo … Continue reading →

Posted in National News | Tagged , , | 3 Comments

President Obama’s Weekly Radio Address

Posted on January 31, 2009 by billmanzi

President Obama gave his weekly radio address amidst new signs of economic trouble. New figures from the Commerce Department show a decline in Gross Domestic Product of close to 4 percent last year. While that number is below the expected … Continue reading →

Posted in National News | Tagged , , | 2 Comments

Gregg to Commerce?

Posted on January 31, 2009 by billmanzi

New Hampshire Senator Judd Gregg is under consideration for appointment as Secretary of Commerce. Gregg is a former member of the United States House, as well as a former Governor. If he were to be appointed New Hampshire Governor John … Continue reading →

Posted in National News | Tagged , , | 4 Comments

Steele Elected Chair of the R.N.C.

Posted on January 31, 2009 by billmanzi

Former Maryland Lt. Governor Michael Steele was elected as the new Chair of the Republican National Committee yesterday. Steele defeated a large field of candidates, including the incumbent Mike Duncan, who had been handpicked by President George Bush. Steele’s election … Continue reading →

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Daschle Hits the Tax Skids

Posted on January 31, 2009 by billmanzi

Tom Daschle’s confirmation as H.H.S. Secretary appears to be in doubt with the revelation yesterday of tax problems. Daschle has filed amended tax returns for three years that have added $128,000 to his tax liability. His problems are in three … Continue reading →

Posted in National News | Tagged , , | 4 Comments

Bye Bye Blago

Posted on January 29, 2009 by billmanzi

Illinois Governor Rod Blagojevich was today convicted by the Illinois State Senate, and removed from office by a vote of 59-0. Blagojevich had addressed the State Senate and defended his actions as Governor: From MSNBC: Blagojevich acknowledged he sometimes mingled … Continue reading →

Posted in National News | Tagged , | 3 Comments

The Governor’s 2009 9-c cuts detailed

Posted on January 29, 2009 by billmanzi

Governor Deval Patrick yesterday detailed his 9-c cuts by community, as well as producing a plan to balance the FY2009 state budget. The cuts were not good news for cities and towns in the Merrimack Valley. Methuen’s mid year cut … Continue reading →

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House Passes Stimulus

Posted on January 29, 2009 by billmanzi

The House of Representatives yesterday passed the federal stimulus bill by a 244-188 margin, with not one Republican voting in favor. Republicans had offered a substitute that was weighted towards tax cuts. but that measure was handily defeated. I have … Continue reading →

Posted in National News, State News | Tagged , | 7 Comments

Gore Testifies

Posted on January 28, 2009 by billmanzi

Al Gore testified today before the Senate Foreign Relation Committee. In that testimony Gore called for passage of President Obama’s stimulus package as well as quick action on climate change. He urged Congress not to let the myriad of problems, … Continue reading →

Posted in National News | Tagged , | 2 Comments