More people should watch NOVA.
Really.
It's not that geeky.
It was a nice try, but it looks like G.W.B. was unable to secure the political capital he wanted post-speech. I did not end up watching it (did anyone actually watch it?!?), but I did read the transcript online. Aside from the obvious wacky ideas (biometric technology identification cards, anyone?) and the typical keep America safe rhetoric, I actually stand back incredulous that G.W.B. insists on a guest worker program despite key members of his own party being completely opposed to it. Ready to be shocked? I think he's right. I think politically speaking in a mid-term election year that is shaping up to be quite a fight, he's right to court the Hispanic vote that was essential to him being re-elected in 2004. Members of his own party are being short-sighted and foolish to ignore the fastest growing population in the U.S. That being said, how's about the Democrats come up with a creative and fair solution to a complicated and heated social issue instead of sitting back and enjoying the Republicans Fall Apart Show? I have yet to hear a plan from either side that is workable and humane. The iron is smoking hot.
I'd guess the administration's decision to brief the Intelligence Committees of the House and Senate has to do with increasing reluctance to green light Hayden as the head of the CIA. I wouldn't sit around with bated breath in anticipation of any real revelations as a result of this move. Hayden's confirmation hearings are set to start tomorrow and the White House needed a pre-emptive strike to pave the way for a yes vote. They need a win and the American public doesn't seem to be too concerned about the major conflict of interest by putting him in that role. Plus, you can bet those on the receiving end of information will be instructed to keep their mouths shut. The appearance of disclosure to Congress will probably be enough to placate the already apathetic public.
NewsHour last night had an excellent piece about Iraq. Judy Woodruff interviewed NYT reporter Sabrina Tavernise. It's worth listening to. After having watched my local and network news which completely ignored Iraq, it was nice to hear an indepth report on just how much of a mess it is over there. I don't have the exact stats (it's mentioned in the piece), but even though Iraq is rapidly leaving our headlines, the morgues are more packed than ever. Last April the Baghdad morgue reported around 500 bodies. This April they reported 1000. Unlike last year where spectacular suicide bombings and foreign insurgents were being blamed for the violence, the current problem is all sectarian. Sunnis and Shia and Kurds are literally shooting each other in the streets. By removing Hussein from power we have unleashed what will no doubt end in full out Civil War. Everyone remains optimistic that the announcement of Cabinet nominations this weekend will tame the violence, but I'll be surprised if politics can save this. And the winner is: no one.
On a personal note, my parents are coming for a visit!!!! I'm deliriously excited with anticipation of mornings spent in pajamas drinking vast quantities of good, strong coffee! I'm bursting with joy of thoughts of a few days at a cottage up north and a trip to Traverse City! I cannot wait to go running with my Dad and yarn shopping with my Mom! There will be baked goods bestowed on many! Maple syrup will rain down upon heads! My favorite beer will be consumed as will really really really good wine! And most importantly, I get to spend an entire week free of work with two of my favorite people in the world.
There will be no blogging from June1-June 7.
Go read some real political analysis, people, not just the ravings of a junkie with too many strong opinions.
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