Archive - December 5, 2008 - The Page by Mark Halperin

The Page

Politics up to the Minute

Ayers on Obama: "We Didn't Pal Around"

The former radical leader continues to speak out, this time in a NY Times op-ed. Defends his militant past and says Obama bears no responsibility for his views or his actions. Permalink

WSJ: The president-elect and top aides are debating whether to create a "White House-level post to coordinate policies on climate change and dependence on Middle East oil." Discussions expected to continue this weekend, along with debate over choices for Interior, Energy and EPA. Permalink

Many Dallas Neighbors Welcome the Bushes

Most residents of Dallas' Preston Hollow neighborhood seem to be happy the outgoing first couple is moving to town. But not all: "I am afraid with all the negative press the president has been getting, the whole neighborhood is going to be a target." Permalink

Stern Praises Obama's Cabinet Picks

In an interview with the Wall Street Journal, the head of the powerful SEIU says Geithner and Summers are "experienced" and "steady." Also praises Daschle at HHS. Permalink

President-Elect to Hawaii for the Holidays

Associated Press: Arrangements are being finalized for the Obamas and the families of a few friends to stay at a Kailua beachfront with three multi-million-dollar homes. Obama and his friends plan to rent the privately owned homes for several days including Christmas. Permalink

Kennedy, Paterson Discuss Senate Seat

An insider says Caroline Kennedy has reached out to the New York governor to discuss the Senate seat Hillary Clinton will vacate next month. Paterson spokesman: "He has been approached by several candidates. Any discussions related to that selection are private...." Permalink

Wanted: Ideas to Fix Health Care

President-elect Obama calls for everyday citizens to hold "health care community discussions" later this month and share their ideas. Expected HHS Secretary Daschle will attend at least one session and report back to Obama. Permalink

Obama Transition Team Disclosing Details, Documents

The president-elect is making public details and documents of official meetings between his transition team and outside organizations. The policy, outlined in a memo obtained by the AP, is effective immediately. It's retroactive to the election and covers the transition period until Jan. 20. Permalink

New White House Staff Announcements

Obama transition team selects Christina Tchen as director of public liaison. Also picks Michael Strautmanis as chief of staff to the assistant to the president for intergovernmental relations and public liaison. Get all the details here. Permalink

Veep to Get Own Economic Adviser

Incoming VP Biden announces a new position -- chief economist and economic policy adviser to the vice president. Position is created "given the critical nature of the economic challenges facing America." Read full release here. Economist Jared Bernstein named to the post. Permalink

Franken Camp: Recount Not Over!

Latest Star-Tribune count shows Coleman leading Franken by 251 votes, after the last of the 2.9 million Minnesota ballots were stored away Friday. And/But: Franken camp claims a four vote lead according to their own running count. Permalink

Bush Avoids Talking About New House

The President brushes off a reporter who asks about the new home the outgoing couple purchased in Dallas. Tells a reporter from the Dallas Morning News: "Todd, why do you care? You live in Washington, D.C." Permalink

Bush "Concerned" About Job Losses

The President tries to reassure Americans in a morning statement following news that more than 500,000 jobs were lost last month. "A market that was frozen is thawing. There's still more work to do, but there are some encouraging signs." Adds he's also worried about the automakers, thinks it's important that taxpayer money is paid back if any is given to them. Watch video clip above. Full remarks here. Permalink

Automakers On the Hill, Day Two

House Financial Services Committee questions the Big Three CEOs and hears testimony from a panel of auto and economic experts. Read lineup here. Chrysler's Nardelli on his company's plan: "We believe this is the least costly alternative" for survival, bankruptcy likely without government help. Chairman Frank says "the country is held hostage" by the continued debate and that unemployment numbers out Friday make auto industry rescue more urgent. Permalink

Dean Suffering White House Envy?

Speaking to CNN’s D.L. Hughley, the outgoing DNC chair jokes that he wishes he had Emanuel’s job. Takes credit for the party’s “50-state strategy” but adds, “I might have been right but I’d rather be chief of staff.” Click above to watch. Permalink