The Merrillville Brewers

46.3 Million Reasons for Health Care Reform

2009-09-12T12:19:00.002-05:00

The U.S. Census Bureau reports that the number of uninsured people living in the U.S. increased in 2008 to 46.3 million from 45.7 million in 2007. President Obama today notes a Treasury Department report showing that under the status quo, around half of all Americans under 65 will lose their health coverage at some point over the next ten years.

Breaking News on the Health Care Reform Debate

2009-08-21T17:35:00.004-05:00

NPR's Special Series:Prescription for Change is an excellent source of news and information on this key public policy issue. There is no doubt in my mind that health care reform and health insurance reform is needed and needed now. If you are an family or individual with health care needs -- waiting for a better political environment is not an option. Providing health care for all of our fellow citizens is a long overdue obligation and moral imperative.

Details on the Plans
The Kaiser Family Foundation also has a Side-by-Side Comparison of Major Health Care Reform Proposals that may help you better understand the details of the debate

Chicago Business Aug 11

2009-08-11T22:03:00.003-05:00

See More Chicago Business News

Chicago Business

2009-08-01T16:00:00.001-05:00

http://link.brightcove.com/services/player/bcpid1681730445?bclid=1519676900&bctid=32657284001

Recovery Act Signed -- Middle Class Relief Next

2009-02-17T20:03:00.000-06:00

President Barack Obama signed the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act today setting the course for the long journey to economic recovery. President Obama said this legislation represents only the first part of the broad strategy we need to address our economic crisis. Every recognizes the need to stabilize, repair, and reform the banking system, get credit flowing again, halt the wave of foreclosures and falling home values and usher in an era of corporate and personal responsibility. However I stand resolute on the fundamental need to address the systemic economic inequalities in our system that has led to the greatest disparity in wealth that this country has seen. And this is the greatest economic threat to the middle class.

As one simple example of the inequity you can look at CEO pay. According to the Economic Policy Institute in 1965, U.S. CEOs in major companies earned 24 times more than a typical worker; this ratio grew to 35 in 1978 and to 71 in 1989. The ratio surged in the 1990s and hit 298 at the end of the recovery in 2000. The fall in the stock market reduced CEO stock-related pay (e.g., options), causing CEO pay to tumble to 143 times that of the average worker in 2002. Since then, however, CEO pay has recovered and by 2007 was 275 times that of the typical worker. In other words, in 2007 a CEO earned more in one workday than the typical worker earned all year.

Another way to look at this is to examine wealth inequality. This wealth gap continues to grow larger over time. EPI says the richest 1 percent of wealth holders had 125 times the wealth of the typical household in 1962; by 2004 they had 190 times as much. These conditions are at the heart of what ails the middle class and their borrowing binge. When you're working harder and harder to just break even, then it is time to examine the rules of the game. Hopefully Vice President Biden's White House Council on the Task Force on the Middle Class will take a serious look at this problem as seek to solve our nation's economic woes.

Remember to visit www.recovery.gov for the latest progress of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.

Obama to Sign Stimulus Plan

2009-02-15T21:28:00.000-06:00

President Obama announces Recovery.gov where you can monitor how the money is being spent. Everyone will also be watching to see if the plan saves or creates more than 3.5 million jobs.

Economic Worries Call for Bi-Partisan Approach

2009-02-15T20:25:00.000-06:00

According to Gallup Poll Daily tracking, Americans, on average are currently spending 40 percent less in stores, restaurants, gas stations, or online as compared to the same period a year ago. Gallup says consumer confidence remains low as nearly a quarter of working Americans are worried facing cut backs in wages and hours. A Pew Center poll finds 80 percent of people that say jobs are difficult to find in their local communities. And things are likely to get worse. President Obama has said that the stimulus plan will have only a marginal impact in the short term. Now even more affluent families are feeling the pinch and they have become much more pessimistic . The survey finds that only about a third of those with family incomes of $100,000 a year or more say they expect national economic conditions to be better a year from now. That is down 22 points from 56 percent in early October 2008. These statistics point to the need for big bold action. While I support the plan going to the president's desk, I think more is needed to address this problem. In addition to addressing our issues at home we must be mindful of how other countries are responding to this global economic crisis. To succeed, we'll need to work more cooperatively with countries around the world than what was displayed in the halls of Congress this past week. We need to remind Congress that this is not the time for partisan gamesmanship.

Do You Support the Stimulus Plan?

2009-02-07T14:33:00.000-06:00

Take my LinkedIn Poll and see the results of how others view the stimulus plan.

Now that the Senate has agreed to a nearly $830 billion economic stimulus plan, they will have to hammer out differences with the House. The two houses have taken different approaches to the stimulus. There are many good things in both bills that will stimulate public and private spending. The House and Senate differ on how much help should go to states and local governments, the degree of emphasis on tax cuts and assistance to the unemployed. The House Republicans voted against the plan and the Senate Republicans have not been on board. But despite the bitter fighting, a bill is expected to be sent President Obama by mid-February.

Listen to the President's weekly address:

Obama's American Recovery and Reinvestment Plan

2009-01-25T09:54:00.000-06:00

In his first weekly address since being sworn in as the 44th president of the United States, President Barack Obama discussed how the American Recovery and Reinvestment Plan will jump-start the economy.

Read more about the plan at http://www.whitehouse.gov/agenda/economy/

President Obama Sworn In: We are ready to lead once more

2009-01-25T08:34:00.000-06:00

On January 20, 2009 President Barack Obama was sworn in as 44th President of the United States and delivered his Inaugural Address.

The speech hit all of the right buttons and set a very serious and somber tone for what will continue to be a very difficult time in America. Looking back to the speeches of Roosevelt, Kennedy, Reagan and Clinton -- modern presidents who came into office facing difficult times -- the speech was very workmanlike and you saw echoes of his predecessors. However, the biggest similarity I noted among these speeches was the confidence displayed in getting America on track. Going back to the Clinton speech you are struck by how he "owned" the stage. His stage presence brought life to his words as he promised an end to gridlock and a season of renewal. You can watch many of the inaugural speeches on C-SPAN.org.

President Obama's headline was "we are ready to lead once more..." He answered Reagan in the line "The question we ask today is not whether our government is too big or too small, but whether it works -- whether it helps families find jobs at a decent wage, care they can afford, a retirement that is dignified..."

He was FDR-like with "Today I say to you that the challenges we face are real. They are serious and they are many. They will not be met easily or in a short span of time. But know this America: They will be met..."

He channeled JFK answering the cold war's foreign policy challenge with "To the Muslim world, we seek a new way forward, based on mutual interest and mutual respect. To those leaders around the globe who seek to sow conflict, or blame their society's ills on the West, know that your people will judge you on what you can build, not what you destroy..."

And on the domestic scene you have this phrase that is Kennedy-like, "We will harness the sun and the winds and the soil to fuel our cars and run our factories. And we will transform our schools and colleges and universities to meet the demands of a new age. All this we can do. All this we will do..."

There were shades of Clinton with "What is required of us now is a new era of responsibility -- a recognition on the part of every American that we have duties to ourselves, our nation and the world; duties that we do not grudgingly accept, but rather seize gladly, firm in the knowledge that there is nothing so satisfying to the spirit, so defining of our character than giving our all to a difficult task..."

However he also harkened back to the lofty rhetoric of campaign with " On this day, we gather because we have chosen hope over fear, unity of purpose over conflict and discord. On this day, we come to proclaim an end to the petty grievances and false promises, the recriminations and worn-out dogmas that for far too long have strangled our politics. We remain a young nation. But in the words of Scripture, the time has come to set aside childish things. The time has come to reaffirm our enduring spirit; to choose our better history; to carry forward that precious gift, that noble idea passed on from generation to generation: the God-given promise that all are equal, all are free, and all deserve a chance to pursue their full measure of happiness..."

He also set his on foreign policy doctrine with " To those who cling to power through corruption and deceit and the silencing of dissent, know that you are on the wrong side of history, but that we will extend a hand if you are willing to unclench your fist..."

All in all a very good speech that has the potential, like Kennedy's, to become more highly regarded over time.

Obama: One Week to Go

2008-10-31T20:31:00.000-05:00

Time for Change: Share the Wealth

2008-10-30T20:42:00.000-05:00

A new study examining income inequality shows that average pre-tax incomes in 2006 jumped by about $60,000 for the top 1 percent of households, but just $430 for the bottom 90 percent, after adjusting for inflation. The analysis by economists Thomas Piketty and Emmanuel Saez found that the top 1 percent and top 0.1 percent of households share of national income was higher than in any year since 1928.

According to the report, the uneven distribution of economic gains in recent years continues a longer-term trend that began in the late 1970s. In the three decades following World War II (1946-1976), robust economic gains were shared widely, with the incomes of the bottom 90 percent actually increasing more rapidly, on average, than the incomes of the top 1 percent. But in the three decades since 1976, the incomes of the bottom 90 percent of households have risen only slightly, on average, while the incomes of the top 1 percent have soared.

In a time of economic downturn everyone's income is affected. However, as we rebound it is time for all boats to rise equally...its time for change!

It's Time for Mugabe to Go; Crisis in Zimbabwe

2008-07-03T23:44:00.000-05:00

The latest reports from Harare, Zimbabwe are that more than 300 Zimbabweans sought shelter at the U.S. Embassy on Thursday, July 3, 2008. According to news reports the number of people killed since the election has increased to nine and the total number of people killed since March in election-related violence is nearing 100.

Robert Mugabe and his supporters have waged not only a campaign for the presidency; but a campaign of violence and intimidation that includes burning homes, threatening residents, beating opponents and their children and as already mentioned, killing people.

The United States UN Ambassador Zalmay Khalilzad submitted a resolution today that would impose targeted sanctions against Mugabe's government. The sanctions are intended to incentivize Mugabe to cooperate and resolve the crisis of legitimacy. We want him to assist in creating a government that genuinely represents the legitimate representatives of the people of Zimbabwe. The resolution also deals with the humanitarian situation by calling on the removal of all obstacles for the provision of aid. It is expected that there will be a vote on the resolution sometimes next week. However, Reuters says that South Africa, Russia and China oppose the idea of sanctions, though it is not clear if Moscow and Beijing are prepared to use their veto powers. Some in the African Union have argued that sanctions will only serve to make Mugabe dig in further and become even more entrenched. They point to Libya and Kenya as examples of where sanctions did not lead to a speedy resolution of the problem. They argue that by reaching out to Mugabe and creating a government of national unity, you will be able to affect change.

I strongly disagree with those in the AU who would buy time for Mugabe. This is the time for sanctions. While tough sanctions may adversely affect Zimbabweans, they are already suffering under Mugabe. I agree with TransAfrica and their assessment that: Given the current level of violence and instability, three months after Zimbabwe’s March 29 "Harmonized Elections," there seems only one approach that can lead to a peaceful and just solution in Zimbabwe: a Temporary Transitional Government. During which, government and stakeholders would draft a new constitution, work towards the democratization of internal structures of government, and the creation of an environment for free and fair elections by 2010. Other outcomes of this transitional arrangement should be the stabilization of the Zimbabwe dollar, inflation reduction, restoration of industrial and agricultural productivity as well as the democratization and professionalization of state institutions, most importantly, the security forces, the judiciary and the electoral commission.

This situation has gone on too long and the entire world, particularly the AU should speak clearly and with one voice that Mugabe must go and new government be instituted so the people of Zimbabwe can have a fresh start.

I know this is not an issue that is on the radar screen for many Americans, but it is important for us to become informed and speak out. Let President Bush and/or Secretary Rice know you support them in seeking sanctions, but also that a Temporary Transitional Government is needed.

To help you become more informed about this issue watch Tavis' Smiley's interview with Nicole Lee, executive director of TransAfrica Forum—the nation's oldest African American advocacy organization for justice in Africa and the Diaspora.

Tavis Smiley Video

Click Here for background on Ms. Lee, the text of the interview and the video.

Zimbabwe Fact Sheet

Charley Rose provides some interesting insights:

Let the Good Times Roll; Louis Jordan Honored in Congress

2008-06-28T09:00:00.000-05:00

On June 23 the House of Representatives passed two resolutions (H.Res. 372 and 1242) that are related to African-American music.

H.Res 372 resolves that Congress--
(1) supports the goals and ideals of Black Music Month;
(2) honors the outstanding contributions that African-American singers, musicians, composers, and producers have made to this country;
(3) calls on the people of the United States to take the opportunity to study, reflect on, and celebrate the majesty, vitality, and importance of African-American music; and
(4) requests and authorizes the President to issue a proclamation calling upon the people of the United States to observe such with appropriate ceremonies and activities.

The House also recognized and honored the life, musical accomplishments, and contributions of Louis Jordan by passing H.Res. 1242.

In 1938 Jordan started his band, the Elks Rendez-Vous Band, and in 1939 he changed the name of the group to the Tympany Five. His prolific musical career consists of 54 hit singles including, 'Five Guys Named Moe', 'Let the Good Times Roll', 'Don't Let the Sun Catch You Cryin', and 'Barnyard Boogie'. In addition there were 18 number 1 hits on Billboard's R&B chart including 'Beans and Cornbread', 'Run Joe', 'Ain't That Just Like A Woman', and the 1946 hit 'Choo Choo Ch'Boogie', which topped the Billboard's R&B chart for 18 weeks. His hits made it onto the Pop charts, including 'Baby It's Cold Outside', 'Caldonia', 'Is You Is or Is You Ain't My Baby', 'Ain't Nobody Here But Us Chickens', and 'Beware'. Jordan was also featured in a variety of short musical films in the 1940s, such as the 1945 short film 'Caldonia" and played cameo roles in movies like 'Follow the Boys' and 'Swing Parade of 1946.' His 1949 recording of 'Saturday Night Fish Fry' is often considered one of the earliest musical examples of what would later become known as 'Rock and Roll.' Jordan died on February 4, 1975, in Los Angeles, California. He was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland, Ohio, in 1987 and Rolling Stone Magazine named him one of the 100 Greatest Artists of All Time. Later this year Jordan will be highlighted on a United States Postal Service stamp, as part of the 2008 commemorative stamp program.

For more information visit the Louis Jordan Website or listen to samples on Amazon.

Time to Revisit the Poor People's Campaign

2008-06-21T09:04:00.000-05:00

In April the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities and the Economic Policy Institute issued a new study noting that the gap between the richest and poorest families, and between the richest and middle-income families, grew significantly in most states over the past two decades.

The study highlights the longstanding trend of growing inequality in the country. Unfortunately the trend has accelerated since the late 1990s as incomes fell for poor families and stagnated for middle-income families in a number of states, according to CBPP.

Low- and middle-income families have reaped few gains since the late 1990s, despite the recent years of economic prosperity. Average incomes actually fell by 2.5% for those in the bottom fifth of the income scale and rose by just 1.3% for those in the middle fifth. Meanwhile, incomes climbed 9% for those in the top fifth.

“Before the recent downturn hit, our economy was generating solid income gains. The problem was that high levels of inequality meant these gains failed to reach middle- and low-income families, whose living standards stagnated or even declined,” said Jared Bernstein, senior economist at the Economic Policy Institute and co-author of the report. “As we head into an economic downturn, these families are ill-prepared to weather the storm.”

Elizabeth McNichol, senior fellow at the Center and the other co-author, added, “Rising inequality raises basic issues of fairness, and harms the nation’s economy and political system. It dampens economic prosperity as incomes stagnate for tens of millions of average Americans and it threatens to widen the nation’s political cleavages, generating more cynicism about political institutions.”

During the longer time period – from the late 1980s to the mid-2000s – in 37 states, incomes grew much more slowly for the bottom fifth of families than for the top fifth. In these states, the incomes of the richest fifth grew by an average of $36,300 (39 percent), while the incomes of the poorest grew by only $1,600 (9 percent). The purchasing power of the poorest families increased by just $93 per year.

The states facing the largest income gaps between the top and bottom fifths of families are New York, Alabama, Mississippi, Massachusetts, Tennessee, New Mexico, Connecticut, California, Texas and Kentucky. Nationally the average income of the top fifth of families is more than seven times larger than the average income of the bottom fifth of families.

Economic Trends, Government Policies Contribute to Growing Inequality
Income inequality grew over the last two decades due to both economic trends and government policies. Wages and salaries grew faster for those at the top of the income scale. Various factors explain growing wage inequality including long periods of higher-than-average unemployment, globalization, the shift from manufacturing jobs to low-wage service jobs, immigration, the weakening of unions, and the declining value of the minimum wage.

Those in the highest reaches of the income scale also reaped the benefits of the growth in the stock market through income from interest, dividends, and the sale of assets such as stocks.

CBPP's Policy Approach to Address Growing Inequality
While many of the causes of widening income gaps are outside states’ control, states can mitigate the problem of growing inequality in a number of ways.

Specifically, states can close the budget gaps that the downturn has caused without widening income gaps. For example, states can avoid raising sales taxes and fees that hit low-income families hardest, and rely more on income taxes. Or, they can enact or expand tax credits to low-income taxpayers to offset the impact of regressive tax increases.

State policy makers can also bolster the safety net in order to improve economic opportunity for those struggling to make ends meet. States can:

update unemployment insurance systems to better reflect today’s workforce,

extend the amount of time workers receive benefits during an economic downturn,

raise the state minimum wage and index it for inflation, and

maintain or improve support services such as transportation, child care and health coverage.

Brewer's Two Cents:
CBPP's suggestions are a starting point but it will require a fundamental shift in the country's priorities. See my blog entry March 4, 2008 for where the candidates were at on poverty.

Also listen the NPR report on the Poor People's Campaign from 1968: A Dream Unfulfilled.
The Poor People's campaign ended June 19, 1968 but the problem remains 40 years later. The percent of our country in poverty is essentially the same today as it was in 1968. It is time for a new commitment to addressing this problem.

Eyes on the Prize -- The Poor People's Campaign

This time we must sustain the effort until victory is won!

Bush, Obama and Kennedy on Negotiating

2008-05-19T07:06:00.000-05:00

President George W. Bush takes a swipe at Barak Obama in his speech to the Knesset on the 60th Anniversary of Israel's Independence.

"Some seem to believe that we should negotiate with the terrorists and radicals, as if some ingenious argument will persuade them they have been wrong all along. We've heard this foolish delusion before. As Nazi tanks crossed into Poland in 1939, an American senator declared: "Lord, if I could only have talked to Hitler, all this might have been avoided." We have an obligation to call this what it is: the false comfort of appeasement, which has been repeatedly discredited by history.

Watch Pres. Bush's entire speech

Here's how Barack Obama responded:

Here's what President John F. Kennedy said:
"So let us begin anew -- remembering on both sides that civility is not a sign of weakness, and sincerity is always subject to proof. Let us never negotiate out of fear, but let us never fear to negotiate.

Obama uses this issue as a way of distinguishing himself as being a different type of politician. Obama argues that strong countries and strong presidents talk to their adversaries. And he has historical and current day examples of this approach being useful. He is able use this to argue that we need to look at our problems in a new light: the "politics as usual" approach has not worked and its time for a change.

This issue allows Obama to highlight the contrast between his approach and McCain's more traditional view that brands dialog as unproductive and reckless. Obama taps into the common sense view that dialog can be constructive. The international failures of the Bush administration's secrecy and "go it alone" approach heightens the public's interest in changing direction.

Score on for Obama because he understands that his openness to the idea of meeting with the leaders of countries like Cuba, Iran, Syria, and Venezuela is in line with the thinking of the American people.

The Centennial of Vibraphonist Lionel Hampton

2008-04-19T15:49:00.000-05:00

In honor of Lionel Hampton's centennial birthday tomorrow I have provided a link to NPR's Artist Page which features interviews and/or performances archived at NPR Music. He was unique talent that I always enjoyed -- Hope you do too!

House Approves Jubilee Debt Relief Act

2008-04-17T20:52:00.000-05:00

The U. S. House of Representatives stood up and reaffirmed the compassion and wisdom which characterizes the American people by voting 285 to 132 in favor of the Jubilee Act yesterday.

Let me thank those of you that responded to my e-mail and contacted your Congressperson -- this is truly what Democracy is all about!

Now the bill moves to the Senate and we will have to press the case once again. But first I encourage you to take a moment and thank your Congressperson for his or her vote ( assuming it was the right vote) We should also give special thanks to Reps. Barney Frank (D-MA), Maxine Waters (D-CA) and Spencer Bachus (R-AL) for their leadership. The vote yesterday was particularly appropriate because it occurred on the day Pope Benedict XVI arrived in Washington, D.C.

While we celebrate the victory today -- keep in mind that according to the The Center for Individual Freedom opponents to this bill generated nearly 30,000 letters to Congress urging their Representatives to vote against the bill.

Concerned that American tax dollars may go to fund debt relief initiatives that benefit corrupt foreign rulers and dictators they see this measure as counterproductive and will lead to waste and greater indebtedness.

But we must keep in mind that according to the World Bank, more than 10 million children in developing countries die every year before the age of five, most from preventable illnesses. More than a billion people in developing countries do not have access to safe drinking water, and approximately 100 million school-aged children do not attend school. In Sub-Saharan Africa, 41 percent of the population lives on less than $1 a day.

Debt cancellation has proven to be effective at freeing up resources for poverty reduction. In my last post I mentioned Uganda but here are two more success stories: Cameroon is using its savings of $29.8 million from debt cancellation in 2006 for national poverty reduction priorities, including infrastructure, social sector and governance reforms. Zambia is using its savings of $23.8 million to increase spending on agricultural projects and to eliminate fees for healthcare in rural areas. Debt relief has and can make a difference to real people struggling for a better existence.

As I have said before ending poverty will not occur simply because we provide debt relief. The U.S. government must also work to raise the level of education and healthcare in these countries. Additionally we must become partners with in trade and economic development. Through this type of involvement we will also be helping to end the corruption that concerns the opponents of aid. Once again, this is the right thing to do and is in our best long-term interests.

Honor Roll of Shame:
(Iowa - Indiana and Illinois Reps that opposed the measure)
As always, Number 1 on my hit parade is Rep. Steve King (R-IA). Out there in western Iowa, King is by far the state's worst Congressperson and is an embarrassment. King was the only Iowa representative to oppose the measure -- it figures!

In Illinois only Donald Manzullo and Tim Johnson opposed the measure. Johnson's vote is no surprise given the district he represents.

Most of the representatives in Indiana went the wrong way. Only the two representatives in Northwest Indiana and the southern most district supported the bill. Indiana's representatives in the 3rd, 4th, 5th, 6th and 8th district all opposed the bill.

House will begin Consideration of Jubilee Act (H.R. 2634) this Week

2008-04-12T11:59:00.000-05:00

The Committee on Rules is scheduled to meet Monday, April 14, 2008 at 5 p.m. to report a rule which will structure the amendment process for floor consideration of H.R. 2634, the Jubilee Act for Responsible Lending and Expanded Debt Cancellation of 2007.

This is the time to call or write your representative and ask them to vote Yes on HR 2634.Capitol Switchboard 202-224-3121

Here are the key points to share:
This legislation builds on previous successful efforts to provide debt relief for the world’s poorest countries. It is an essential component in the overall effort to help alleviate the poverty and misery that exists in many parts of the world.

Debt cancellation has proven to be effective at freeing up resources for poverty reduction, and it makes a real difference in the lives of millions of impoverished people around the world.

Since 1996, more than 30 developing countries have had $80 billion in debt to the World Bank, International Monetary Fund, and similar lending banks forgiven. Many of these countries were so poor that it was unreasonable to expect that the loans would ever be paid back. Now these countries can use the money they save in interest payments for poverty reduction and growth.

Uganda serves as an example: it used $57.9 million in savings on improving energy infrastructure, primary education, malaria control and water projects

The legislation also includes prioritizing grants over lending in future development assistance and adoption of a legal framework to prevent some creditors from profiting from debt relief by providing high-cost loans to countries that are newly debt-free.

Here's the final point -- Poverty reduction in these poor countries will only cost the average American $3. Debt relief will help stabilize these countries and it is the right thing to do!

The Senate is scheduled to hold hearings on the Senate version of the bill later this month.

Support Debt Relief to Poor Countries; The Jubilee Act

2008-04-06T18:12:00.000-05:00

Congresswoman Maxine Waters (CA) and Senators Robert Casey (PA), Richard Lugar (IN), and Chris Dodd (CT) have introduced H.R. 2634 / S. 2166, the Jubilee Act, which calls for the U.S. Treasury to support 100 percent debt relief to poor countries that need it most. This legislation would help deeply indebted countries to improve infrastructure, education, housing and health care and to ensure access to adequate nutrition and clean drinking water. At the current rate of progress, the world is still decades behind in fulfilling the completion of the MDGs. Passage of the Jubilee Act will greatly bolster efforts to get the international community back on track toward meeting these goals by 2015.

On April 3, 2008, the House Financial Services Committee approved of H.R. 2634 the Jubilee Act; the next step is consideration by the full House of Representatives which may occur as early as the week of April 7, 2008. We must encourage both the House and the Senate to act swiftly and send this bill to the President’s desk for his signature as soon as possible.

This bill is supported by the NAACP and many religious groups. Attached is an action alert from the NAACP and links to sites from which you can directly contact your Congressperson.

NAACP Action Alert
Church World Service
Africa Action

Dr. King on Meet the Press

2008-04-06T11:35:00.000-05:00

The MEET THE PRESS Web site has a special "Take Two" Web extra, a look back at the highlights from Martin Luther King Jr.'s five historic appearances on MEET THE PRESS from 1960 until 1967. You can view them here:

What Obama Couldn't Say About Rev. Wright's Comments

2008-03-22T12:12:00.000-05:00

"The black church has always had prophetic preachers," according to Professor Cheryl Sanders Howard University Divinity School, Washington, D.C. "Prophetic voice goes all the way back to the days of slavery, when people were protesting being in bondage. And so protest is just kind of a part of how we do ministry."

Dr. Robert Franklin president, Morehouse College, makes the following point that Rev. Wright uses the language of speaking truth to power, of condemning the misuse of power, of oppressing the poor and powerless -- that is rooted in biblical models -- Ezekiel, Isaiah, Amos -- that's biblical language and there's a long history of American prophetic discourse that follows in that line. Generally it is rooted in a love for the nation, a hope that it will be redeemed, that it will repent. That's what Dr. King did -- that was the genius of Dr. King -- confrontation and an openness to negotiation.

You can view a report from Religion & Ethics Newsweekly that puts the comments of Rev. Wright into much better perspective than the slap and dash segments compiled on the cable news programs.

There is also more on the Religion & Ethics Newsweekly Blog One Nation.

Was Rev. Wright Right?

2008-03-20T22:15:00.000-05:00

In today's age of sound bite journalism and gotcha politics, it really doesn't matter much if one is actually right or wrong -- the paramount issue becomes is it entertaining, provocative and able to be distilled down to a single thought. Ergo "God Damn America" becomes the phrase that pays for the talking heads and news editors. Meanwhile the veracity, context, substance and even actual relevance of the statement all take a back seat.

Anyone with a smidgen of background instantly recognized what Rev. Wright was talking about and was able to put it into proper context. Unfortunately, many Americans don't have the historical and cultural background to properly frame the issue. So shame on the journalists and media outlets that either refused to put the comments into the proper perspective or were too ignorant to be able to frame the issue.

Lets be clear, in winning both Iowa and South Carolina, Obama earned "honorary" status in two worlds that sometimes collide. (Honorary status has its historical roots in the apartheid system of South Africa) Obama has tried to transcend the issue of race and is not running as a candidate of any race. He is trying to navigate the tricky waters of racial stigmatization. However, the paradigm of race is still too powerful to ignore and he has been granted "honorary" status in both the African-American and White communities. A privilege bestowed upon very few politicians.

Shelby Steele argues "For whites, here (the Obama candidacy) is the opportunity to document their deliverance from the shames of their forebears. And for blacks, here is the chance to document the end of inferiority."

Early on in this campaign we saw an effort to remove his honorary status from the African-American community. "Is Obama Black Enough?" Now there is strident effort to remove his honorary status in the White community.

For all the discussion of Rev. Wright and comments he has made in the past, this is really about exposing honorary white Obama as secretly being an angry black man. As Cedric the Entertainer said in the Kings of Comedy referring to Bill Clinton as the first Black President, "Come on, ya'll. Now, you know we got Clinton -- that's close. He's got negro tendencies." Well some on the right are in essence saying "...See, Obama has negro tendencies" Those are grounds for the removal of honorary status.

But back to the question of was Rev. Wright right -- while the word choice may have been hard to hear, they were chosen to drive home a point. His statements were not given as a political candidate seeking votes. He was speaking as a preacher of the gospel -- not worried about whether it was politically popular. I invite you listen to his remarks in context as posted by Trinity UMC. Direct link to the "Chickens come home to roost" remarks in context.

Also NPR ran a segment on Black Liberation Theology you might find interesting.

40 Years Later -- Today's Candidates on Poverty

2008-03-04T17:23:00.000-06:00

Forty years ago the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr., announced final plans for a march on Washington for his Poor People's Campaign. While Dr. King was unable to lead that march, the Poor People's Campaign signals the direction he was taking the movement. King well knew that civil rights and economic rights are inextricably intertwined.

Today, Rev. Al Sharpton and others are planning marches and demonstrations in Memphis to honor Dr. King and the effort for which he gave his life. NPR had a segment "Fighting for 'Poor People,' 40 Years Later" that discusses King's political goals.

It is somewhat ironic that 40 years after King's death, a new political leader is on the scene that has the potential to take "The Dream" to the next level. In a symbolic sense Barack Obama is a child of Dr. King and America is judging him by the content of his character. In a metaphorical sense, the presidency is the political promise land and Obama's run could be that mountaintop vision of King.

However, the candidate that best embodied a passion for ending poverty has already bowed out the race. John Edwards' crusade to fight poverty was as he would say, "the cause of my life." Unfortunately, fighting poverty has never been and is not likely to be a theme upon which a candidate can win the White House. Edwards took two bites at the apple but his message did not capture the attention of the media or the American people.

Take a walk down memory lane and 44 years ago we had a president that waged war on poverty. President Lyndon Johnson said that our country's goal is "an America in which every citizen shares all the opportunities of his society, in which every man has a chance to advance his welfare to the limit of his capacities.

"We have come a long way toward this goal.

"We still have a long way to go.

"The distance which remains is the measure of the great unfinished work of our society..."

He said that his program was more than just a beginning. He meant for it to be a commitment, a trust that the country would keep. "It is a total commitment by this President, and this Congress, and this nation, to pursue victory over the most ancient of mankind's enemies," said Johnson.

But where are we today? Certainly great progress has been made, but we can not claim victory -- the distance which remains is still the great unfinished work of our society. Where do the candidates stand on poverty issues? The Cleveland Plan Dealer asked that question, but in the world of sound bite journalism, there is not much there. While I am sure there may be better resources out there here are a few links that will provide you with some insight on where the candidates stand on this issue.

"Fighting Poverty and Creating a Bridge to the Middle Class" by Barack Obama

"Tackling Poverty and Inequality in America" by Barack Obama

"Pragmatic Solutions for Reducing Poverty and Inequality" by Hillary Clinton

John McCain on Welfare and Poverty

Bush Heads to Africa

2008-02-13T20:58:00.000-06:00

In announcing President Bush's second visit to the African continent since 2001, and Mrs. Bush's fifth visit, National Security Advisor Stephen Hadley outlined the Administration's priorities since coming to power. The Bushes will travel to Benin, Tanzania, Rwanda, Ghana and Liberia. The Administration's African Policy has not garnered a great deal of attention in the mainstream media and our efforts continue to be pale in comparison to the need but nevertheless Bush has made a contribution to the effort to fight HIV/AIDS, malaria and other infectious diseases. You can visit the Kaiser Center for more info about the Aids fight in Africa.

Here's what Hadley said: The trip will be an opportunity to demonstrate America's commitment to the people of these countries and to Africa as a whole. The trip will highlight how the United States has partnered closely with the people of Africa to address the challenges of disease, poverty and security; and how, together, we've really made remarkable progress. There's more hope in Africa and the American people can be proud that many of our innovative programs are making a real difference.

The President will stress the importance of supporting his commitment to combating HIV/AIDS, malaria and other infectious diseases. The United States is the largest contributor to the Global Fund for HIV/AIDS, Malaria and Tuberculosis, pledging more than $3.5 billion and providing over $2.5 billion since 2001.

On May 30, 2007, President Bush announced that he will work with Congress to double America's initial commitment and provide an additional $30 billion to the President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief for the following five years. The President is committed to working with Congress to pass reauthorizing legislation consistent with this program's successful founding principles.

The trip will demonstrate the President's strong commitment to growth and development on the African continent, a commitment shared throughout his administration. The President has partnered with African leaders to increase development assistance, support greater prosperity through increased trade and investment, and work closely with international organizations to increase international involvement, both public and private, in African development.

The trip will also be an opportunity to reaffirm the enduring commitment of the United States to bringing peace and stability to the region. President Bush's partnership with allies, regional leaders and subregional organizations has helped wind down wars in Liberia, Sierra Leone, the North-South conflict in Sudan, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Angola and Burundi. The United States is also leading international efforts to help stop the genocide in Darfur.
The United States has trained over 44,000 African peacekeepers from 19 countries. The United States has trained over 80 percent of African peacekeepers that are currently deployed in African Union and United Nations peacekeeping missions, both inside and outside of Africa.

He Was A Great Piano Player; I Never Knew He Could Sing

2008-02-06T20:44:00.000-06:00

Now that's a quote...NPR's Jazz Profiles features Nat King Cole today and his piano playing ability. Always a musical treat...I thought I'd share it with you.

While you're in the mood for music try this one from NPR's World Cafe -- Sonny Rollins: Elder Statesman of Jazz. Hear the interview and in-studio performance.

A Future of Hope and Opportunity Begins with a Growing Economy

2008-02-02T07:20:00.000-06:00

"A future of hope and opportunity begins with a growing economy – and that is what we have. … This economy is on the move, and our job is to keep it that way, not with more government, but with more enterprise.."– President George W. Bush, State Of The Union Address, 1/23/07

Nice words...but the Bureau of Labor Statistics newly released jobs figures for January show that the after 52 straight months of job growth, the longest period on record, employment decreased by 17,000 jobs.

There is no dispute, we are in a period of economic uncertainty. As the cost of gas, food and health care increase, the financial markets plunge and the housing sector remains stagnant; the economy is on the verge of a recession. While not meeting the official definition of a recession -- it sure feels like we are already in one for a lot of people.

President Bush and the U.S. House have proposed a $145 billion economic stimulus package designed to jump start the economy. They are urging the Senate to quickly pass the legislation with no changes. The plan is based on the idea that the economy needs a strong but temporary shot in the arm to increase spending and encourage job creation. Eligible taxpayers would get rebates of up to $600 for individuals and $1,200 for couples, with a minimum of $300 per person and $600 per couple. It also contains business investment incentives.

However, you can count on the Senate to "fine tune" the legislation. But, in this case they have the opportunity to make this legislation better.

While I will do my patriotic duty and promptly spend the money -- I am not sold on the idea of rebates because the economy needs more comprehensive economic reform. I think Congress would be wise to spend more time to craft a program that will more fully achieve the economic goals that the proposed stimulus is intended to accomplish. In the current political environment Congress has to provide some immediate assistance. But you have to consider the merits of spending more time on this issue since it will take probably 90 to 150 days before checks can be cut. Shouldn't we use the time to do this right.

I like some of the ideas being considered by the Senate. Lets make sure low and moderate income families get sizable rebates, make sure the rebates don't negatively affect financial assistance programs such as food stamps and other benefits, extend the rebate to low and moderate income seniors who receive Social Security but do not have earnings, and provide rebates to higher income families. Since this would increase the overall size of the proposal, some households would have to get slightly smaller checks.

The key to the stimulus is to get the money into the hands of the people who will spend it and the Senate plan does a better job. Senator Barack Obama's economic stimulus plan as well as Sen. Hillary Clinton's plan goes much further than the proposal advanced by Bush and the House.

New Report on Aging Out of the Foster Care System

2008-01-26T15:34:00.000-06:00

The Joint Center for Political and Economic Studies published a report in December that discusses the plight of young people who age out of the foster care system. Imagine being 18 and resourceful enough to navigate through the foster care system, persistent enough to obtain a education that will enable you to get into college and then find yourself temporarily homeless because you did not have a home to go back to over the holiday break. The report notes that youth who age out of foster care are less likely to have completed high school or earned a GED, and more likely to suffer from mental health problems, be involved in or be victims of crime, and be socially isolated compared to their peers who live within a family. As adults, they also are more likely to be unemployed or homeless, and to be living in poverty. At the core of these problems is the lack of connectedness between these young people and caring adults that can assist them as young adults. Additionally, the lack of coordination among social services agencies, academic institutions and health care providers leave these young people too often at a significant disadvantage as they make take their first steps in adulthood. The Joint Center report highlights the fact that these young people lack trusted, supportive relationships because they have been removed from their extended family setting and too often have experience multiple placements as youth. Much more needs to be done for these young people who too often do not have strong advocate championing their long-term interests. Read the Report: Aging Out of the Foster Care System to Adulthood: Findings, Challenges, and Recommendations

In November 2007, H.R. 4208 The Reconnecting Youth to Prevent Homelessness Act of 2007 was introduced. While this bill does not directly address the significant problems facing young people who age out of the foster care system, it does attempt to help some of the most vulnerable young people in society and provide for extension of child welfare services to emancipated youth between ages 18 and 21. See the Take Action Section of the blog for information on this bill.

Obama's Success and Race Relations

2008-01-12T12:49:00.000-06:00

After watching Bill Moyers Journal last night I experienced a reoccurring thought, "we really have not advanced very far in how we discuss race relations." These are essentially the same conversations we were having in the 1990s, the 1980s, the 1970s and the 1960s. From what I read, these are the same conversations that we have always had on the issue of race relations in the United States.

I am intrigued by the idea of the country having a productive conversation about race. However, in my little corner of the world, I wonder if there is any point to these discussions. I often see books written by people with far more intellectual horsepower than me exploring the issue. "Sellout: The Politics of Racial Betrayal" by Randall Kennedy, "A Bound Man: Why We are Excited about Obama and Why He can't Win" by Shelby Steele and "Racial Paranoia: The Unintended Consequences of Political Correctness" by John L. Jackson offer insight into the current discussion. However, generally speaking, at the end of the day they really don't advance the conversation very far.

With Obama winning the Iowa Caucus and finishing a very close second in New Hampshire, some think Obama has transcended race. But, the question of race relations is just under the surface. Comments this week coming from the Clinton camp have some claiming that the attacks smack of racism. Others think Obama's team is playing the race card.

These types of claims and counter claims, just as the comments of Shelby Steele on PBS, miss the real issues that separate the races. Media attention to the issue of race too often focuses on the irrelevant. Public opinion polls clearly show that on many issues African-Americans and Whites see the world from very different vantage points. The Gallup Poll explores the topic of race relations each year. You can examine the result of several recent Gallup polls by clicking the previous link or go to a July 6, 2007 poll with this link: A Downturn in Black Perceptions of Racial Harmony Two-thirds of blacks are dissatisfied with society's treatment of blacks. One in three blacks today say they are satisfied with the way blacks are treated in society, down from a year ago. A majority of blacks -- 55% -- are still positive about race relations, saying relations between whites and blacks in the United States are good; however, this evaluation is also down from last year.

The success of Barack Obama getting White votes proves very little about race relations. It is a huge mistake to extrapolate his current popularity into anything more significant than that. Obama has provided some hope and inspiration but the entrenched problems did not change following his DNC speech in 2004 or victory speech in Iowa earlier this month. While it may be a new hour in race relations, it most certainly is not a new day.

Interesting TV -- Bill Moyers Journal Jan. 11, 2008

2008-01-11T21:45:00.000-06:00

Kathleen Hall Jamieson spoke with Bill Moyers last week about life after Iowa and the power of good speechmaking. She returns this week to look behind the flurry of post-New Hampshire predictions and how to watch debates. Moyers talks with Shelby Steele, who has written widely on race in American society and is author of the recent book A BOUND MAN: WHY WE ARE EXCITED ABOUT OBAMA AND WHY HE CAN'T WIN. ESSAY MARGIN OF ERROR: POLL READING TIPS: Fourteen questions you need to ask before trusting the numbers, the history of polling and an interview with the founding father of public opinion research, Daniel Yankelovich. You can watch the show and comment on the blog - Bill Moyers Journal.

Obama Scores Decisive Victory in Iowa

2008-01-04T16:15:00.000-06:00

The margin of victory in the Iowa Caucuses for U.S. Sen. Barack Obama (D-IL) over challengers U.S. Sen. Hillary Clinton (D-NY) and former U. S. Sen. John Edwards (D-NC) was by all accounts impressive. Iowa will serve as a springboard for the Obama candidacy as the race moves quickly to New Hampshire. With record turnout, Obama was able to carry virtually all of the major population centers. Leaving Clinton only the most conservative western counties. (See Map for county breakdown and links to the key speeches)

In addition to Obama, there were at least two other big winners -- The Iowa Poll and the people of Iowa. When the final Iowa Poll was released Jan. 1 many people were skeptical. However, take a look at the Iowa Poll again to refresh your memory of what it said and then look at what Edwards' advisor Joe Trippi had to say to Real Clear Politics. The Iowa Poll pretty much nailed it. A huge turnout of independents, young people, first time caucus goers and a sprinkle of Oprah magic sealed the deal for Obama.

The people of Iowa were also big winners as they may have set the stage for another generational swing in politics. The votes for Obama, age 46, and Huckabee, age 51, come from a state that was fourth in the nation in terms of population older than 65, according to the 2000 census. Yet young people helped to make the difference.

While Iowa's population is growing more diverse, it is still essentially 95 percent White. However, the paradox that is Iowa points you to a legacy of taking bold steps in regard to race relations.

Stops on the Underground Railroad ran through Iowa. In the 1860s, nearly 100 years before the 1954 Brown Decision whereby the U. S. Supreme Court outlawed segregation in the public schools, Alexander Clark, Sr, and the Iowa Supreme Court had already legally resolved the question of equal access to public schools. In 1884, the Iowa Legislature become one of the first four or five states to enact a civil rights act dealing with public accommodations. This law was used in the late 1940s (perhaps 1950 - my memory is not what it used to be) by folks like Edna Griffin and the Des Moines NAACP legal Redress Committee to integrate lunch counters -- more than a decade before the sit-in and student protests of the early 1960s. Just 10 days after my birth Iowa Gov. Loveless established the state's Human Relations Commission.

When I left Des Moines and moved to Gary, Indiana - I left a city with a roughly 10 percent African American population for a city that had a roughly 10 percent White population. However, Des Moines had an African-American mayor and Gary had a White mayor. We live in a time where the old stereotypes are breaking down.

This is not to say that Iowa is not without its problems (one only need to look at the civil justice system) or that the early laws were adequate or fairly enforced -- but it does speak to the fact that Iowans are more than up to the task of fairly judging a candidate --particularly one with a message of hope and inspiration.

Many of the media pundits only see the obvious -- Black man/White state -- Iowans are more sophisticated than that. In my earlier blog entry I noted that only a small percent of Iowans would be victims of that small-minded sort of thinking. The key to victory had to be energizing people to come out and be part of history. Obama was able to get his message to those non-traditional voters in a very big way.

Now its on to New Hampshire where polls taken before the Iowa caucuses had Clinton with a 6 point lead over Obama. New polls should be out soon and that lead may have evaporated. Again if memory serves me no Democrat has won both Iowa and New Hampshire and not been the nominee.

Stay Informed about Health Issues...
Summary of Health Disparities-Focused Legislation in 110th CongressThe Kaiser Family Foundation has issued a summary of health disparities-focused legislation introduced in the first session of the 110th Congress. "Key Health Disparities-Focused Legislation Introduced in the 110th Congress" is available. An archived webcast and transcript is also available. Scroll down to "A Little This...A Little That"

Keep Your Eye On Jan. 9 Voter ID Case

2007-12-28T17:22:00.000-06:00

January 2008 promises to be very significant regarding election news. Everyone is aware of the caucuses and primaries occurring but we should be sure to put January 9 on the radar screen. An Indiana voter ID case, perhaps the most important voting rights case since Bush v. Gore, will be heard by the U.S. Supreme Court that day. Indiana law requires residents to present a government issued photo ID at the polls in order to vote. Previously, Indiana only required a signature to vote. The Indiana law is the nation's most restrictive ID law. Opponents are concerned that it prevents many eligible citizens from voting. Studies have shown that this type of requirement targets elderly, poor and minority voters. Supporters argue that this approach is a reasonable hurdle in order to prevent voter fraud. For details about this case, amicus briefs and other legal documents visit Brennan Center for Justice NYU School of Law: Crawford v. Marion County Election Board

As the world's leading democracy we should be looking for ways to enfranchise citizens. Establishing arbitrary barriers such as a government issued photo ID should be rejected.

Bhutto's Assassination Leaves US with No Options

2007-12-27T22:47:00.000-06:00

It has been another sad and tragic day as Benazir Bhutto, former prime minister of Pakistan and head of the Pakistan Peoples' Party, was assassinated in Rawalpindi . Bhutto's life was under constant threat since she returned to the country in October as part of a last ditch effort to bring new direction and strong leadership to the country.

The death of Bhutto is yet another significant blow to the Bush administration's foreign policy and War of Terrorism. Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice was instrumental in convincing Bhutto that a power sharing agreement was in the country's best interest and could be reached with Pakistani President Pervez Musharraf. The U.S. promised increased aid as an incentive for Bhutto and Musharraf to work out an arrangement. When that failed and Musharraf did not or could not provide the necessary security for Bhutto, this outcome was most unfortunately -- predictable.

Pakistan is (and has been) the true frontline in war on terror. It is Pakistan, not Iran or Iraq, that is under siege by both the Taliban and Al Qaeda -- Pakistan is the country that has nuclear weapons. Pakistan, under Musharraf, suffers from weak leadership and with the jihadist forces exerting influence, there should have been a greater focus on bringing stability to this country.

The Bush Administration's reliance on Musharraf continues to be a disaster. Now it seems we are left with no options. Musharraf can not be allowed to fail because the country will fall further into chaos and that is unacceptable.

Many people criticized Barack Obama this fall when he spoke out against Musharraf and was critical of the Bush policy, but he was absolutely correct.

The NewsHour as always had solid coverage of the story.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

2007-12-25T07:54:00.000-06:00

We wish everyone a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. The weather extremes of the past few days kept us home bound. However, the connectedness we share is ever with us and is particularly intense as we reflect on the meaning of today's celebration.

The Holiday Season, from Thanksgiving to New Year, is a time of reflection, re-dedication and committing oneself to embark on new journeys. We wish you the best, God's peace and grace!

Over the next few days as you reflect on the holidays, I hope you will have time to look at some of the linked articles and share your thoughts and comments about the subjects and points being made by the authors.

In particular, I'd like to read your comments regarding:

Jesus as radical and what those implications are for us in today's society...According to accounts of Pope Benedict XVI's Christmas message he encouraged followers to make time for God, be more involved with those in need. AP quotes the Pope saying, "Man is so preoccupied with himself, he has such urgent need of all the space and all the time for his own things, that nothing remains for others, for his neighbor, for the poor, for God," Additionally the Pope used his homily to highlight environmental concerns. Ah, now we're getting into the political realm. The Dallas Morning News ran this OpEd today discussing politicians' and their use or misuse of the "Jesus Card." What are your thoughts about how William McKenzie essentially re-phrases the question, "What would Jesus do?" and then cautions political leaders to not condense "Jesus down to the candidate of the left, right or middle."

Why are Christians, who supposedly have the most powerful force in the universe living inside of them, fearful of the power of retailers and others in the public square who choose to be more inclusive in their marketing and approach to a season where there are a variety of traditions... An online poll taken by WSET-TV in Dansville, VA found that 62 percent of 7,464 people responding (this is FAR from scientific polling) were offended if stores don't say Merry Christmas? Here's what Creflo Dollar has to say on the matter...Do you agree or feel like I do that Dollar doesn't make any sense on most religious questions.

A Musical Tribute to Oscar Peterson who died this week
One one most amazing piano meetings of all time! Two of the greatest pianists, the incredible Oscar Peterson and Herbie Hancock play "Billie´s Bounce."

There is also NPR's "Oscar Peterson's 'Jazz Odyssey' -- Pianist Looks Back at His Life Among Legends"

U.S. Rep. Julia Carson (D-Ind.) Laid to Rest

2007-12-22T21:59:00.000-06:00

U.S. Rep. Julia Carson was laid to rest today surrounded by hundreds of family, friends, colleagues and supporters who turned out to observe her burial. The Indy Star has multimedia coverage. A special election will be held to fill Carson's seat. Carson was the first African-American and first woman to represent Indianapolis in Congress.

Three Tickets Out of Iowa

2007-12-22T09:24:00.000-06:00

Conventional wisdom says that only three candidates from each party will emerge from Iowa with a legitimate chance for the presidency. Those three tickets on the Democratic side of course will be punched for Clinton, Obama and Edwards. The Iowa Republicans will only advance two candidates, Huckabee and Romney. While McCain will have a solid third place finish, his efforts will ultimately fall short as his stock drops in future contests.

The major story coming from Iowa will be "Huckabee Populism." The governor is connecting with the Republican voters that enabled "W" to win two terms in the WH. Romney, who should be the clear front runner in this race, has morphed into John Kerry - and we all know how that candidacy ended.

In the past few weeks and months, Huckabee has hit his stride. The contrast between the two campaigns could not be more apparent than in the way they talk about their personal religious beliefs. Huckabee, an ordained Baptist minister, is very much at ease with his religion and in the evangelical wing of the GOP. His recent Merry Christmas ad is a demonstration of that and was a stroke of genius in a campaign that emphasizes candidates being authentic.

In contrast, Romney, with his long-awaited speech "Faith in America," missed an opportunity to put the real issue of his candidacy behind him. The larger issue for Romney is what do you believe? Not, religiously-speaking, but what are your core convictions. His "faith of my fathers," line did not cut it. The outline for his speech should have been: JFK answered the question over 40 years ago and I stand with him. Yes, I am a Mormon. I'm very proud of the virtues and values my faith has taught me. This is what I believe, this is how it has shaped my view of the world. I am not running as a Mormon, but as Mitt Romney. The real outline was not far from this, but he failed to lay out the bedrock principles guiding his beliefs. If had gone deeper into what he believes, perhaps that would have provided insight into why he is not a flip-flopper -- which is the real issue he needed to answer coming out of Iowa.

The secondary story out of Iowa
The historic nature of the Clinton/Obama candidacies will automatically garner significant media coverage, but neither candidate will gain much advantage. However, the under-reported story out of Iowa will be the impact of Oprah.

In some cases, polls will over-estimate the popularity of African-American candidates. It goes by many names, some call it the 15 percent factor or the Wilder effect (after Gov. Doug Wilder in VA). In other words a significant number of voters will say they are likely to vote for an African-American candidate but when it comes time to vote, they choose the white candidate. So, assuming that Obama's tight lead in the opinion polls is inflated by some voters who want to be politically correct, he'll need to draw in people who are not likely voters. No one is saying that people will vote of Obama because of Oprah's support. However, the "O-Factor" may have attracted enough voters into the process to correct the margin of error in the polls. See Oprah's rally in Des Moines

What's in the News This Week...

2007-12-20T21:50:00.000-06:00

The Center on Budget and Policy Priorities has an interesting report that makes the point that "Despite relatively strong economic growth since 2001, poverty has remained stubbornly high, and today’s poverty rate is higher than it was during the last recession." As the report points out, with today's fragile economy this should be of concern to us all. Read the report IN THE NEWS Poverty and Hardship Affects Millions of Americans .

Jesse Jackson is right on point with his comments, “It is an outrage that Chairman Martin continues the FCC’s shameful legacy of rewarding Big Media companies at the expense of communities of color and the public. The idea that the FCC is permitting further media consolidation without first addressing the appalling lack of media diversity is a slap in the face to the communities that have been excluded too long." Read his statement IN THE NEWS Rev. Jackson’s Response to the FCC’s Vote .

Harvard professor and pastor Peter Gomes discusses his latest book on NPR. Gomes as always has an interesting perspective, but you can be judge of that, listen to him talk about the book IN THE NEWS Gomes Preaches 'The Scandalous Gospel' .