Archive - December 8, 2008 - The Page by Mark Halperin

The Page

Politics up to the Minute

Poll: Country Split on Auto Bailout

New CBS News poll finds 45% of Americans approve and 44% disapprove of using federal dollars to bail out the industry. Details here. Permalink

"We Just Don't Want to Put Good Money After Bad"

The president discusses his concerns about bailing out the auto industry in an interview with ABC News' Cynthia McFadden on "Nightline" Monday. Also doesn't rule out the condition of having top employees step down from the auto companies as part of their restructuring. Read more excerpts here. Permalink

Dems Send White House $15B Auto Bailout Proposal

Congressional leaders draft a plan that would rush bridge loans to Detroit's Big Three in exchange for the auto industry's restructuring. It would also put an overseer chosen by Bush in charge of monitoring promised renovations within the companies. White House officials give cool initial response, are concerned it doesn't follow a broad agreement to give long-term financing only to viable companies. Permalink

Dean Joins Calls for Blago to Go

In a statement, the DNC chair says he hopes Illinois' legislature "will take action" if the Democratic governor does not "resign immediately." "The conduct alleged represents a disgraceful abuse of the public trust." Read full statement. Permalink

Inauguration Round-Up

Inaugural committee announces first wave of organizations to march in the inaugural parade. President-elect Obama orders his first new tuxedo in 15 years. Permalink

Steele to Critics: "Wake Up, People"

The former Maryland lieutenant governor, now running for RNC chairman, says conservatives need to make room for moderates in the party. "Are you going to kick these folks out of the party?" Also tells CBN's David Brody that President Bush should have pressured Sen. Stevens to resign and calls Obama a "creation" of the media. For more, click here, here and here. Permalink

Bulls Visit Wall Street

The Dow Jones begins the week up 300 points. Traders welcome plans for national spending, aid to Detroit. Permalink

Illinois Gov. Meets With Rep. Jackson About Obama's Seat

Gov. Blagojevich says he's sitting down Monday with the Chicago Democrat to discuss the position, calls him a "very strong" candidate. He won't say who's on his short list; hopes to pick a replacement before the holidays. Permalink

Congress to Move Quickly on Justice Appointees

Senate Judiciary Chair Leahy says he's planning early January hearings for attorney general nominee Holder and any others, hoping for a confirmation vote soon after Obama is inaugurated. Says he wants the Justice Department to be able to say, “OK, Justice is back, and we’re going to do what needs to be done.” Holder held brief meetings with Leahy and Judiciary ranking Republican Specter on Monday. Permalink

Teachers Union Honcho Possible Clinton Replacement

NY Daily News: Two sources confirm "talks" have been had by the Paterson administration and Randi Weingarten about her interest in the New York Senator's seat. Permalink

A Foggy Bottom Dinner for Two

Secretary of State Rice will host dinner Monday night for her probable successor Hillary Clinton. Comes after Clinton spends the day in transition meetings at State. Permalink

The Big Five: Monday Edition

HALPERIN'S TAKE: The five most important people in American politics right now -- who aren't Barack Obama. Permalink

Mayors Convene With Dems on the Hill

A delegation of U.S. mayors are sitting down with lawmakers Monday to ask for a piece of the economic stimulus package taking shape. They’re asking Congress to send money for infrastructure projects directly to cities instead of going through state governments, where it could get caught up in red tape. Permalink

Bloomberg Gushes About Caroline Kennedy

The New York City mayor touts the potential Clinton replacement candidate's work in the Big Apple while speaking with reporters on the Hill Monday. "Caroline Kennedy is a very experienced woman, she's worked very hard for the city. I can just tell you she's made an enormous difference in New York City." Permalink

Bush Thanks Counterterrorism Team

The president expresses his gratitude Monday to employees at the interagency National Counterterrorism Center in Virginia for their work during his administration. Tells them the best response to the ongoing terror threat is to “keep the pressure on constantly” with surveillance and intelligence. Visit is part of a final swing Bush is making through federal agencies.Read full remarks here. Permalink