Archive - December 9, 2008 - The Page by Mark Halperin

The Page

Politics up to the Minute

Obama: I Was "Not Aware" of Blagojevich's Actions With Senate Seat

The president-elect makes a brief statement on the Illinois Governor's arrest after meeting with former VP Al Gore in Chicago Tuesday. "I had no contact with the governor or his office so I was not aware of what was happening. As I said it's a sad day for Illinois. Beyond that I don't think it's appropriate for me to comment." Also says he was "saddened and sobered" by the news. Watch video above. Read pool report here. Plus: RNC Chair Duncan calls Obama's comments "insufficient at best." Full statement here. And: Politico on how the scandal will test Obama. Update: Obama strategist Axelrod says he was "mistaken" when he stated that Obama had spoken with Blagojevich about the Senate vacancy. Read statement here. Permalink

Lawyer: Blagojevich Won't Resign

Governor's attorney: "He didn't do anything wrong. A lot of this is just politics." Adds that Blagojevich was "surprised" by the day's events. Earlier: The Illinois governor is released on his own recognizance following a bond hearing in Chicago. Ordered to relinquish his passport and firearm owner's identification card. Permalink

Obama, Gore Speak About Climate Change

The former vice president sits down with the president- and VP-elects in Chicago Tuesday to talk about the work he has done on the issue. Obama says at media spray that the "time for denial is over," his administration will make climate change a priority. "We all believe what the scientists have been telling us for years now, that this is a matter of urgency and national security..." Read pool report here. Permalink

Lt. Gov. Quinn: Blagojevich Should Step Aside

Quinn says at a presser his boss should at least temporarily step down because he's "seriously impeded from carrying out his oath of office." "I think that should certainly be considered by the governor today. I think he knows what he needs to do for the people." Quinn will become acting governor if Blagojevich steps down. Permalink

David Plouffe, Live from the White House

Obama’s campaign manager e-mails another video message, this one from behind Obama’s new home. Calls for Obama supporters to attend upcoming “Change is Coming” house parties. Click above to watch. Permalink

Sen. Kennedy Denies Pushing For Niece

A spokesman for the Senator says he has not urged Gov. Paterson to appoint Caroline Kennedy to Sen. Clinton's seat. Says "Senator Kennedy has not contacted anyone in New York" regarding the position, contradicting a NY Times report. Permalink

"Governor Blagojevich Has Taken Us to a Truly New Low"

U.S. Atty. Patrick Fitzgerald calls it a "sad day for government" in a news conference on the Illinois Governor's arrest on federal corruption charges. Says Blagojevich was "in the middle of a political corruption crime spree," including allegedly seeking to sell the appointment of Obama's Senate successor. Adds the governor's alleged conduct "would make Lincoln roll over in his grave." Read full complaint filed by U.S. Attorney's office here. Watch Fitzgerald video above. Plus: Chicago Tribune's editor says some stories on Blagojevich were delayed at Fitzgerald's request. See how the New York Times breaks down the complaint here. Permalink

New Yorkers Split on Clinton Replacement

Marist poll released Tuesday finds 25% of constituents back Caroline Kennedy filling the soon-to-be-vacant seat, while another 25% want AG Andrew Cuomo. 26% say they aren't sure who should be the replacement. Permalink

The Big Five: Tuesday Edition

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

Chicago Neurosurgeon Considered for Surgeon General

Chicago Tribune: Gail Rosseau is one of the president-elect's potential picks to be the next U.S. Surgeon General, sources close to the talks say. Permalink

Reid Meeting With Geithner, Holder

The Senate Majority Leader sits down Tuesday with the Treasury, AG nominees. Afternoon photo op expected at the Capitol. Permalink

Former Fannie Chief Pushes the Blame

Appearing before Congress Tuesday, former CEO Franklin Raines faults lawmakers, regulators for encouraging risky expansion decisions saying they “made no visible effort to enforce any limits.” Permalink

Vote Along With Mitch

The Kentucky Senator -- whose support for the auto bailout is crucial to its passage -- is expected to voice his opinion Tuesday. Said Monday: “Troubled automakers cannot expect taxpayer help without a serious commitment to change their ways — permanently.” Sen. Reid says Tuesday morning he sees auto bailout by Wednesday. Permalink

Obama Skips Trip to Chicago FBI

Obama doesn't receive scheduled briefing at Chicago's FBI office Tuesday, traveling instead to his transition office. No word if the change is linked to the governor's arrest. Read pool report here. Permalink

Bush Makes Final Visit to West Point

The President thanks cadets for their courage, says it's been honor to serve as commander in chief of the “greatest armed forces in the world.” Also pledges that their counter terrorist efforts will not go unrewarded in history. “The day will come when they receive the justice they deserve.” Read prepared remarks here. Permalink