Author Archives: billmanzi

Tom, You’re Out!

Posted on February 3, 2009 by billmanzi

Tom Daschle today withdrew from consideration as HHS Secretary, bowing to the mounting pressure from his tax problems. President Obama accepted Daschle’s withdrawal with the requisite “regret”. Obama also had Nancy Killefer withdraw from consideration for the job of Chief … Continue reading →

Posted in National News | Tagged , | 7 Comments

Judd Gregg to be Named at Commerce

Posted on February 3, 2009 by billmanzi

New Hampshire Senator Judd Gregg will be named today to be Commerce Secretary by President Obama. Gregg has been mentioned for over a week as a possible candidate, but has said that he would not take the post if in … Continue reading →

Posted in National News | Tagged , , | 1 Comment

Methuen Eliminates Primary

Posted on February 3, 2009 by billmanzi

The Methuen City Council last night agreed to eliminate the potential for a primary in this election season in order to save $32,400. The cost saving measure must be approved by the State Legislature and would be effective only for … Continue reading →

Posted in Methuen, Methuen City Council | Tagged , | 6 Comments

Eric Holder Confirmed as Attorney General

Posted on February 2, 2009 by billmanzi

Eric Holder was confirmed today as the first African American Attorney General by a vote of 75-21. He did receive some heat over the Mark Rich issue, but picked up a good block of Republican support in winning confirmation. Holder … Continue reading →

Posted in National News | Tagged , | 8 Comments

Sunday Morning Battle on Stimulus

Posted on February 2, 2009 by billmanzi

The “This Week” program had an interesting group of panelists debating the merits of the stimulus package being pushed through Congress. Senator Jim DeMint and Rep. Barney Frank had a pretty good go round on it, with Frank pretty much … Continue reading →

Posted in National News | Tagged , , , , | 11 Comments

Who wins the big game today?

Posted on February 1, 2009 by billmanzi

Who do you like today? Pittsburgh is my choice. Defense will harry Kurt Warner and shut down the high flying Arizona offense. Pittsburgh offense will move the ball with a balanced ball control attack, keeping Warner off the field for … Continue reading →

Posted in Uncategorized | 2 Comments

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