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Politics up to the Minute
Headlines from December 31st, 2008
Burris Asks Court to Force Appointment
The Democrat selected by disgraced Gov. Blagojevich asks the Illinois Supreme Court justices to force Secretary of State White to co-sign the prolcamation that he's the state's new senator. "There is a great and urgent interest of the people of the state of Illinois in being fully represented before the United States Senate," the petition says. Plus: WashPost outlines the possible outcomes if Burris makes good on his promise to show up on Tuesday. Permalink
"I Am the Junior Senator From Illinois"
Roland Burris stands firm on his Senate appointment, insisting to the WSJ that Gov. Blagojevich's decision is legitimate and suggesting he'll fight any effort to block him. "We think they will come around and recognize that the appointment is legal and valid.... By what authority can (Sen. Reid) deny a governor carrying out his constitutional duty?" Plans to attend next month's Capitol swearing-in ceremony, but tells the AP he won't make a scene if he's turned away. "I am not seeking to be confrontational." Permalink
The Quest for Camelot II
In Friday's TIME, Karen Tumulty examines whether "the old magic can still work for a new generation of Kennedys." "...the only thing Caroline Kennedy has established is that she hasn't inherited the Kennedy charisma gene." Permalink
Fitzgerald Wants More Time for Blago Indictment
The U.S. Attorney requests a 90-day extension to return a corruption indictment against the Illinois governor. Prosecutors say "multiple witnesses" have come forward in recent weeks, and investigators must review thousands of intercepted phone calls. Chicago source to Politico: "Senior administration officials have been coming in to present info in droves since the arrest on 12/9." Permalink
Obama Hits the Gym
On his last full day in Hawaii, the president-elect and friends start the day at his beloved Semper Fit Marine gym. At least 100 people gather outside, one of the largest crowds of his vacation. Obama spends several minutes shaking hands and snapping photos. Read pool reports here and here. Meanwhile, Hawaiians overflow with pride at Obama's success. "It means a lot to the state, to the people." Permalink
McConnell Watching Blago Developments "With Great Interest"
The Senate Republican leader again calls for a special election to fill Obama's Senate seat. "I think the whole process up there has been obviously tainted." Permalink
Rep. Davis: I Was Offered Ill. Senate Seat
Rep. Danny Davis says Blagojevich offered him the vacant seat through an attorney, but he turned it down. "I indicated I came to the conclusion there was too much discomfort on my part and the part of my family." Permalink
The Bushes Plan a Quiet a New Year's on the Ranch
The president and first lady plan to mark the new year with a sunrise stroll around their Crawford ranch. Asked if the early-rising president will make it to midnight, a spokesman smiles. WashPost: The sun is setting on the 1,583-acre Prarie Chapel ranch, as Bush prepares to decamp for Dallas. Permalink
Obamas to Stay at the Hay-Adams
The incoming first family will stay at the historic hotel near the White House beginning this weekend. They plan to move to Blair House on January 15. The presidential suite in the penthouse normally goes for $2,500 to $5,000 a night. More on the hotel here. Permalink
Bush, Olmert Discuss Peace
The president and Israeli prime minister speak by phone Wednesday, discussing ways to end the conflict with Gaza. Spokesman: "President Bush wants to see an end to the violence." However, Israel is offering no sign of agreeing to pressure for a cease-fire. Permalink
Obama Plans Marketing Blitz for Stimulus Plan
Obama and top aides plan to hit the road shortly after the inauguration to push for the massive spending plan. LA Times: Obama "will quickly strive to shape public opinion, casting the substantial stimulus package as crucial to the nation's recovery." Top aide Axelrod: "We'll fan out, and this will be a public process." Obama "wants the American people involved in this discussion." Permalink
Burris: "I Am Not Tainted"
Gov. Blagojevich's pick for the U.S. Senate insists he deserves Obama's Senate seat. Click here to watch. Tells NBC's "Today" he's a "qualified, dedicated public servant," says "I have absolutely nothing to do with (the governor's) problems." More Burris interviews here and here. Plus: Burris supporter Rep. Bobby Rush tells CBS that Blago opponents "need to take a chill pill." Permalink
Israel Rejects Truce Call, Continues Attacks
As air strikes on Gaza enter a fifth day, Israel rejects international pressure to suspend its air offensive, sending warplanes to demolish tunnels supporting Gaza's Hamas leadership. The proposed cease-fire would have allowed humanitarian relief to get to Gaza, if Palestinians stop their own rocket fire into Israel. Plus: Wash Post on the president-elect responding with silence. TIME's Joe Klein: There are no decisive blows in Gaza. Permalink
Jobless Numbers Remain Volatile
First-time jobless claims fall last week, amid a shortened holiday workweek. Meanwhile, total jobless numbers reach a 26-year high. Economist: "The underlying picture is terrible for the labor market.” Bloomberg: "The magnitude of the drop in claims last week indicates the figures will remain volatile." Permalink
Report: Kennedy Team Chafing at Bloomberg Aide
NY Daily News: Caroline Kennedy's aides have asked Bloomberg political aide Kevin Sheekey to tone down his support for her, amid her rocky rollout. Source: "There had been huge missteps in the way (City Hall) constructed this." Earlier: Sheekey reportedly reins in his own support for Kennedy. Plus: NY Post: Bloomberg takes "um"brage at critics of Kennedy's reliance on "um's" and "you know's." Permalink
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