The Page
Politics up to the Minute
Headlines from July 4th, 2009
FOURTH FESTIVITIES
Obama thanks service men and women in Independence Day event on the South Lawn Saturday evening. Focuses on Iraq: "Because of what you did a sovereign and united Iraq has taken control of its own destiny." Remarks here. Evening includes BBQ, concert, fireworks show and more. Pool report here. Permalink
Palin Blasts Media Frenzy
Writes on her Facebook page July 4, calling pundits' reaction to her announcement "predictable." "How sad that Washington and the media will never understand; it’s about country." Permalink
Biden: Palin No Victim of "Political Blood Sport"
The VP tells ABC's "This Week" he respects Palin's decision to step down -- but doesn't think she was treated THAT badly. QUOTES: Read them here. Permalink
Palin As Nixon
Sunday NY Times on the possible route to rehab -- and the White House. KEY EXCERPTS: Read them here. Permalink
McCain Plays Nice
Issues statement Saturday saying he thinks Palin "will continue to play an important leadership role" in the GOP after stepping down. Read it here. HALPERIN'S TAKE: 10 possible reasons for Palin's decision. Permalink
Back to the Golf Course
The president, Reggie Love and Marvin Nicholson hit the links Saturday shortly after coming back from Camp David. POOL REPORT: Read it here. Permalink
Second Lady Lunches With Troops
Jill Biden spends her Fourth in Germany meeting with U.S. soldiers there. Permalink
Holiday Agenda Push
Obama uses his weekly radio address Saturday to recall challenges facing the nation's founders, rally support for his domestic initiatives. Cites health care, education and energy as must-fix problems. Click above to watch. TRANSCRIPT: Read it here. Permalink
Cheering on the Troops
Biden attends a naturalization ceremony for soldiers Saturday, has lunch with Delaware brigade (including son Beau) in Baghdad. Says about ceremony: "We did it in Saddam's palace. That S.O.B. is rolling over in his grave right now." POOL REPORTS: Here and here. PHOTOS: See gallery of trip here. Permalink
WHAT'S NEXT?
Politico talks to Palin sources about her resignation, what she'll do now. DETAILS: See what they had to say here. Permalink
NoKo's July 4th Message
Fires at least seven short-range missiles off its eastern coast Saturday in apparent missive of defiance to the U.S. on its Independence Day. Permalink
MEDIA MANIA
NY Daily News analysis says Palin's resignation is "dooming her presidential pipe dream." Tough AP overnight lede: "Even for a nonconformist...Palin defies political logic with her sudden, stunning announcement to leave office..." NY Times: "...Her remarks sounded at times like those of a candidate with continued national aspirations." WashPost: "Once Again, An Enigma Plays It by Her Rules" Permalink
Lady Liberty
The crown of the Statue of Liberty reopens July 4 after being closed to the public for years post-9/11 due to security concerns. Permalink
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