July 10, 2009
Election 2008: Hillary Clinton in the news
Few job prospects for '09 graduating class
As he prepared to find a job after college, Mark Alexander did everything right.
Where the jobs are
Amid the glum news for 2009 college graduates, recruiters have good news about jobs in some fields:
Obama's mother, Hillary Clinton shared a belief
From July 1993 to the end of 1994, Barack Obama's mother was hard at work in New York City convening experts, compiling surveys and drafting papers for a major United Nations conference in Beijing, where she hoped to show how much good can be done by lending small sums to poor women.
Kennedy says 9/11, Obama led her to seek public service
Caroline Kennedy emerged from weeks of near-silence Friday about her bid for a Senate seat by saying that after a lifetime of closely guarded privacy, she felt compelled to answer the call to service issued by her father a generation ago.
Questions abound about Caroline Kennedy's assets
At this time last year, Caroline Kennedy was promoting "A Family Christmas," a collection of essays that featured the memory of her father letting her use the White House switchboard to call Santa.
WELL, LOOK WHO’S BACK?
Who woulda thunk it? After downward spirals, former Hollywood pariahs Britney Spears, Mickey Rourke and Robert Downey Jr. managed to turn it around this year. And file under TV turnaround: NBC's "Saturday Night Live" became culturally relevant again.
Clinton campaign aide to aid Bloomberg's bid
The chief spokesman for Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton's presidential campaign is going to try to win a third term for New York City's mayor.
Poll: Half think Kennedy to get seat
ALBANY - Though New Yorkers are split on whether Caroline Kennedy is qualified to be the next junior senator from New York, half believe Gov. David A. Paterson will name her to the post.
Aide: Kennedy will back Dems' pick for NYC mayor
WASHINGTON - An aide to would-be senator Caroline Kennedy says she will back the Democrats' pick next year for New York City mayor, possibly putting her in the uncomfortable position of backing a rival to her friend Mayor Michael Bloomberg.
Rep. Israel, Gov. Paterson make surprise visit to Iraq
WASHINGTON - Gov. David A. Paterson joined Reps. Steve Israel and Anthony Weiner on an unannounced congressional delegation trip to visit troops in Iraq that landed in Baghdad early yesterday.
Ackerman compares Caroline Kennedy to Sarah Palin
WASHINGTON - A Democratic congressman compared
Paterson, congressmen make surprise visit to Iraq
Gov. David A. Paterson joined Reps. Steve Israel and Anthony Weiner on an unannounced congressional delegation trip to visit troops in Iraq that landed in Baghdad early Sunday.
First peek at Caroline Kennedy's policy positions
ALBANY - In a first peek at her positions on policy matters, Caroline Kennedy supports gay marriage rights, restoring a ban on assault weapons and keeping the Bush administration's tax cuts in place for now.
Tour Versace's South Beach mansion, for a price
For years, the iconic South Beach mansion best known as the place where Gianni Versace lived and died was open only to the privileged few.
Obama fills out Cabinet with two more picks
President-elect Barack Obama named his transportation, trade and labor choices Friday, saying the three new members of his team "will help craft a 21st-century economic recovery plan."
Caroline Kennedy confronts qualification questions
Caroline Kennedy, confronting continuing questions about her qualifications, yesterday provided a list of public service veterans whom she admires as she attempted to describe how she'd perform as a U.S. senator.
Clinton releases foundation's contributor records
WASHINGTON - The world opened its wallet for Bill Clinton.
Five questions Washington has for Caroline Kennedy
WASHINGTON - The first question most people ask about Caroline Kennedy's pursuit of Hillary Rodham Clinton's Senate seat is: "Why should she get it just because of her name?" But once you get past that threshold query, some longtime Washington analysts and insiders have other questions about a Kennedy Senate candidacy - none of which have clear answers. Here are five:
Tour Versace's South Beach mansion, for a price
For years, the iconic South Beach mansion best known as the place where Gianni Versace lived and died was open only to the privileged few.
Caroline Kennedy confronts qualification questions
Caroline Kennedy, confronting continuing questions about her qualifications, Thursday provided a list of public service veterans whom she admires as she attempted to describe how she'd perform as a U.S. senator.
Five questions Washington has for Caroline Kennedy
WASHINGTON - The first question most people ask about Caroline Kennedy's pursuit of Hillary Rodham Clinton's Senate seat is: "Why should she get it just because of her name?" But once you get past that threshold query, some longtime Washington analysts and insiders have other questions about a Kennedy Senate candidacy - none of which have clear answers. Here are five:
Obama to name LaHood, Schapiro to top posts
CHICAGO - President-elect Barack Obama intends to name GOP Rep. Ray LaHood of Illinois as his transportation secretary and former Securities and Exchange Commissioner Mary Schapiro to head the much-criticized agency, Democratic officials said yesterday.
If not Paterson's pick, Caroline Kennedy vows '10 Senate run
SYRACUSE - Caroline Kennedy, traveling upstate yesterday to win support for her quest to succeed Hillary Rodham Clinton in the U.S. Senate, vowed to run for the seat in 2010 even if Gov. David A. Paterson doesn't appoint her.
Poll: Patterson will pick Kennedy to fill Senate seat
ALBANY - While New York voters are not sure who should replace Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton if she becomes the secretary of state, many believe Gov. David A. Paterson will choose Caroline Kennedy, according to a poll released yesterday.
Peter King: Kennedy not qualified for Senate seat
WASHINGTON - In his toughest attack yet on Caroline Kennedy, Rep. Peter King (R-Seaford) said yesterday there's "no evidence she's qualified" to fill Hillary Rodham Clinton's Senate seat and predicted that if she's appointed to it he'll beat her in the 2010 election.
Peter King: Kennedy not qualified for Senate seat
In his toughest attack yet on Caroline Kennedy, Rep. Peter King (R-Seaford) said yesterday there's "no evidence she's qualified" to fill Hillary Rodham Clinton's Senate seat and predicted that if she's appointed to it he'll beat her in the 2010 election.
Caroline Kennedy tours state in bid to become senator
Caroline Kennedy finally made public her desire to serve in the U.S. Senate, reaching out to a handful of mayors and some political leaders Wednesday in a choreographed effort to win support for her quest to succeed Hillary Rodham Clinton in the U.S. Senate.
Weighing fame wisely
The hottest political contest in the state is a battle for just one vote. It belongs to Gov. David A. Paterson. He alone will choose who succeeds Hillary Clinton as New York's junior senator. Deciding won't be easy. Not with dynastic names like Kennedy and Cuomo in the scrum, and powerhouses Clinton, Sen. Charles Schumer and New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg having more than a passing interest.
December 17: Absentee senator, baseball fortunes, state economic development,
Save money, NY: only one senator
December 16: Throwing shoes, SNL on Paterson, Caroline Kennedy speculation
Heads up
Fully privatized, Bruno eyes bidding on county work
"Always be closing," the overbearing Alec Baldwin character urges salesmen in the film version of David Mamet's "Glengarry Glen Ross."
Can Caroline Kennedy handle glare of political spotlight?
Caroline Bouvier Kennedy, JFK's only surviving child, has spent a lifetime on one podium or another, but has never sought elected office, a gap in her resume that is leading some fellow Democrats to ridicule the notion of naming her as Hillary Rodham Clinton's replacement in the U.S. Senate.
Peter King could be spoiler in race for Clinton seat
ALBANY - Rep. Peter King, through nine congressional campaigns, has burnished his image as a Republican pugilist. But now he may well become a spoiler to Democrats hoping to replace Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton.
Velazquez: No to Senate
WASHINGTON - Brooklyn congresswoman Nydia Velazquez has taken herself out of contention as a potential successor for Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton.
Rep. Ackerman is unpopular upstate after Utica comment
WASHINGTON - Rep. Gary Ackerman is not so popular up in Utica right now.
Clinton to take salary cut in her new job
WASHINGTON - Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton would make about $4,700 less as secretary of state than her predecessor, Condoleezza Rice.
December 12: School lunch, Hillary, diocese, Plum Island
Plum Island demise welcome
Cuomo noncommittal on vying for Senate seat
ALBANY - State Attorney General Andrew Cuomo neither ruled himself out or in yesterday as a replacement for Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton.
NY politicians could learn from Illinois scandal
New York has lots to learn from this huge statehouse scandal in Illinois. And pronouncing Blagojevich as "Blah-goya-vitch" is the least of it.
NY politicians could learn from Illinois scandal
New York has lots to learn from this huge statehouse scandal in Illinois. And pronouncing Blagojevich as "Blah- goy a-vitch" is the least of it.
King plans to run against Clinton replacement in 2010
ALBANY - Republican Rep. Peter King of Seaford plans to run for the U.S. Senate in 2010, challenging whomever replaces Hillary Rodham Clinton.
Clinton, Rice discuss State policy, challenges
WASHINGTON - Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice and designated successor Hillary Rodham Clinton have met and broken bread for the first time since the former first lady was tapped to become America's next top diplomat.
Fran Drescher eyes Hillary Clinton's Senate seat
ALBANY - The star of "The Nanny" wants to go from playing nasally New Yorkers to succeeding Sen. Hillary Clinton in the U.S. Senate.
King plans to run against Clinton replacement in 2010
ALBANY - Republican Rep. Peter King of Seaford plans to run for the U.S. Senate in 2010, challenging whomever replaces Hillary Rodham Clinton.
Bloomberg: Kennedy "very competent" to fill Senate seat
WASHINGTON - New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg gave a boost to Caroline Kennedy as a possible Senate candidate, saying she is experienced and "can do anything."
Paterson's re-election could hinge on senatorial pick
ALBANY - Gov. David A. Paterson faces a complicated political choice in appointing a replacement for Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton. His wish to be returned to the Executive Mansion in 2010 could hinge on his pick, experts said.
Hillary Clinton visits with Condoleezza Rice
WASHINGTON - Hillary Rodham Clinton yesterday made her first visit to the State Department since she was named to be America's next top diplomat and planned to dine with Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice.
Paterson's tough decision
Gov. David A. Paterson’s drive to remain in the Executive Mansion could be impacted by his choice of replacement for Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton. Here’s how he fared in two hypothetical matchups for governor in 2010:
SPIN CYCLE: GUIDE TO POLITICS AND POLITICIANS
The Suffolk County Police Department's official hate-crime statistics, which show one anti-Hispanic hate crime in 2007 - down from 15 in 2004 - have been questioned by immigrant and Latino activists and county legislators. The chairman of County Executive Steve Levy's Hispanic Advisory Board, Alexander Gutierrez, called them "hard to believe."
Janison: Strategists look to future of Thomas DiNapoli
New York's biggest political drama still surrounds who will succeed Hillary Rodham Clinton in the U.S. Senate, and how Democrats Pedro Espada Jr. and Malcolm Smith could ever co-manage the State Senate - if that's even possible - once the clock runs out on Dean Skelos' defeated GOP majority.
Sen. Schumer not ready to back a NY senate replacement
WASHINGTON - Sen. Charles Schumer said yesterday he won't publicly push for Caroline Kennedy or any of the other 10 possible candidates to succeed Hillary Rodham Clinton in the Senate.
Rice regrets flawed intelligence in lead-up to Iraq war
WASHINGTON - Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice said yesterday she regrets the United States relied on flawed intelligence as the basis for going to war in Iraq and took partial responsibility for mismanaging the post-invasion occupation.
Clinton successor must complement Schumer
Gov. David Paterson faces a significant challenge in finding a replacement for Sen. Hillary Clinton, who is expected to be confirmed as secretary of state in January. Not only is Clinton a hard act to follow, but the job of representing New York State is no easy task.
Caroline Kennedy a possible Senate seat contender
Media reports Friday said Caroline Kennedy has talked to Gov. David A. Paterson about the Senate seat of Hillary Rodham Clinton, who is preparing to become secretary of state.
Hillary building secretary of state's team of experts
WASHINGTON - Preparing for her new role as secretary of state, Hillary Rodham Clinton is moving to surround herself with a cast of die-hard loyalists and veterans of her husband's administration to help her cope with world crises and backstage Washington power plays.
Caroline Kennedy a possible Senate seat contender
Media reports Friday said Caroline Kennedy has talked to Gov. David A. Paterson about the Senate seat of Hillary Rodham Clinton, who is preparing to become secretary of state.
46 TO INAUGURATION
In a change from tradition, the entire length of the National Mall will be open to the public for the inauguration of Barack Obama, his inaugural committee announced yesterday. The committee has pledged to make Obama's inauguration "the most open and accessible in history," allowing those who can't get the 240,000 tickets to the swearing-in ceremony on the Capitol grounds to fill the mall. In the past, parts of the mall have been closed off as a parade staging area. The National Park Service has said jumbo TV screens will line the mall to give crowds a glimpse of Obama's swearing-in.
New Mexico Gov. Richardson to be commerce secretary
CHICAGO - President-elect Barack Obama selected New Mexico Gov. Bill Richardson as his commerce secretary yesterday, naming a prominent Hispanic to his new cabinet and calling him a leading "economic diplomat for America" in troubled times.
47 DAYS TO INAUGURATION
Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton (D-N.Y.) is expected to give up a $4,700 pay raise given the secretary of state in January to get around a Constitutional ban on senators and representatives taking federal jobs whose pay was increased when they were in Congress. President George W. Bush on Jan. 4 ordered the raise to $191,300 from $186,600. Old Clinton foe Judicial Watch and some scholars say the raise should bar her from the job. But historically, Congress has stepped around the ban by rescinding the raise. Democratic aides say they will take that step for Clinton; many scholars say it satisfies the Constitution.
Concerns over Clinton's close ties with India
WASHINGTON - Secretary of State-nominee Hillary Rodham Clinton's close ties with India forged during her years as a U.S. senator and presidential candidate could complicate diplomatic perceptions of her ability to serve as a neutral broker between India and its nuclear neighbor, Pakistan.
With her new job, will the Clintons desert New York?
As of today, Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton can feel free to hurl her Yankees cap into the Hudson. She can skip county Democratic dinners. She can forget about the dairy farmers and the snows of Buffalo. She can limit the spontaneous press scrums even more and - who knows - maybe even sell that big old house in Westchester.
Arabs, Israelis weigh Clinton nomination
WASHINGTON - Barack Obama's decision to name Hillary Rodham Clinton secretary of state is causing Arabs and Israelis to adjust expectations of his administration's policies toward the Middle East.
Obama announces Clinton, rest of national security team
CHICAGO - Along with Hillary Clinton as secretary of state, President-elect Barack Obama picked a national security team yesterday that included Bush administration holdover Robert Gates, who would remain as defense secretary.
Observers cite Clinton's human rights commitment
It was a startling speech coming from a first lady - indeed, Hillary Rodham Clinton's 1995 speech at the United Nations Conference for Women in Beijing is credited as a watershed moment.
Paterson will wait to name Clinton's Senate successor
ALBANY - Gov. David A. Paterson won't appoint a replacement for Hillary Rodham Clinton until she leaves the U.S. Senate, which is unlikely before next month.
Clinton accepts secretary of state nomination
WASHINGTON - Hillary Rodham Clinton said she's ready to leave New York and the Senate to return to the world stage after President-elect Barack Obama announced yesterday he would nominate his former political rival as his secretary of state.
Tuesday, Dec. 02, 2008
A story yesterday about possible replacements for Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton misidentified the ethnicity of Rep. Nita Lowey (D-Westchester).
Clinton accepts secretary of state nomination
WASHINGTON - Hillary Rodham Clinton said she's ready to leave New York and the Senate to return to the world stage after President-elect Barack Obama announced yesterday he would nominate his former political rival as his secretary of state.
Paterson will wait to name Clinton's Senate successor
ALBANY - Gov. David A. Paterson won't appoint a replacement for Hillary Rodham Clinton until she leaves the U.S. Senate, which is unlikely before next month.
Observers cite Clinton's human rights commitment
It was a startling speech coming from a first lady - indeed, Hillary Clinton's 1995 speech at the United Nations Conference for Women in Beijing is credited as a watershed moment.
With her new job, will the Clintons desert New York?
Starting today, Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton can feel free to hurl her Yankees cap into the Hudson. She can skip county Democratic dinners. She can forget about the dairy farmers and the snows of Buffalo. She can limit the spontaneous press scrums even more and - who knows - maybe even sell that big old house in Westchester.
Obama advisers could include five with New York ties
There's the senator from upstate Chappaqua, the financial whiz president of the Federal Reserve Bank in Manhattan, a Queens native turned federal prosecutor, the Bronx borough president and a legislative guru with roots in Baldwin.
As secretary of state, Clinton faces tough juggling act
WASHINGTON - When Hillary Rodham Clinton steps up next to President-elect Barack Obama in Chicago today to accept the nomination as secretary of state, she will be taking on a portfolio whose importance was underlined dramatically by the recent deadly terrorist attacks in Mumbai, India.
Paterson has much to weigh in filling Clinton's seat
ALBANY - Gov. David A. Paterson would prefer to appoint a minority to replace U.S. Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton if she becomes secretary of state, his aides said last week.
Questions and answers about our health care system
What's wrong with our health care system?
Word due on cabinet post
Democratic officials say President-elect Barack Obama will nominate Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton to be his secretary of state tomorrow.
Nation briefs: Ex-Obama aide who insulted Clinton back
Samantha Power, the Harvard professor who was forced to resign from Barack Obama's presidential campaign last spring after calling Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton "a monster," is now advising the president-elect on transition matters relating to the State Department - which Clinton is slated to head. Power is listed on Obama's transition Web site as part of the team reviewing national security agencies. She is part of a team that is likely to work directly with Clinton, a potentially awkward situation.
Problems linger as LIRR cleans up derailment site
People heading to holiday celebrations with families or friends today - traditionally one of the year's busiest travel days - could have their trips complicated by still-lingering service disruptions on the Long Island Rail Road following the train derailment at Jamaica, LIRR officials said.
LIRR back on track, with some delays
The Long Island Rail Road announced Wednesday that its train schedule was back on track just in time for "getaway day," traditionally the busiest travel day of the year.
Paterson must weigh senate seat, fiscal plan carefully
Schools of government might want to consider offering courses in leak etiquette.
Why Hillary became first cabinet pick
WASHINGTON - How did Hillary Rodham Clinton become the first in line to join the Obama cabinet?
Obama outlines expanded economic stimulus plan
WASHINGTON - President-elect Barack Obama said yesterday he was crafting an aggressive stimulus plan to revive the troubled economy, in an effort to combat what he called a "crisis of historic proportions."
Clinton would be great for State
She is perhaps the most widely known woman on the planet, with the brainpower and the steely toughness to match her celebrity. A Secretary of State Hillary Clinton would be a powerful voice for the United States abroad, at a moment in history when the election of Barack Obama as president has the world listening to our nation in a new and hopeful way.
Obama outlines expanded economic stimulus plan
WASHINGTON - President-elect Barack Obama said yesterday he was crafting an aggressive stimulus plan to revive the troubled economy, in an effort to combat what he called a "crisis of historic proportions."
LIRR doomsday budget could delay fixing gaps
The Metropolitan Transportation Authority's doomsday budget would delay completion of the Long Island Rail Road's efforts to fix dangerous gaps between platforms and train cars by as much as two years by cutting the number of workers on the project, LIRR officials said Friday.
TRANSITION WATCH
The European Union's foreign policy chief said Friday he expects President-elect Barack Obama to move quickly to deal with top trans-Atlantic goals, including Middle East peace, negotiations with Iran and slowing global warming. Javier Solana also said the appointment of Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton as secretary of state would be well received in Europe, especially because her husband, former President Bill Clinton, remains popular on the continent.
BUILDING THE OBAMA CABINET
IT'S Washington's favorite parlor game during a presidential transition: trying to figure out who'll land a top spot in the new administration. President-elect Barack Obama is weighing an array of Washington insiders and outsiders, including some Republicans, for cabinet and other top positions, according to Democratic officials. Here's a look at some of the speculation.
Obama plans to tap Geithner for Treasury post
President-elect Barack Obama picked Timothy Geithner, head of the Federal Reserve Bank of New York, to be his Treasury secretary, with Lawrence Summers getting a senior White House role, a Democratic aide said Friday.
Paterson's political chess game gets underway
For Gov. David A. Paterson, there is more at stake than the choice of a U.S. senator to succeed Hillary Rodham Clinton pending a special election in 2010; there is also a statewide Democratic Party ticket to be shaped.
Report: Clinton ready to accept sec'y of state job
WASHINGTON - Hillary Rodham Clinton is ready to accept the job of secretary of state, according to a report that came a day after the Obama transition team worked out an arrangement with her husband, Bill Clinton, on his worldwide charities and business dealings.
November 22: Big Three bailout, sports gambling, Clinton at State, media sexism
Clinton for State
Report: Clinton ready to accept Sec'y of State job
Hillary Rodham Clinton is ready to accept the job of secretary of state, according to a report that came a day after the Obama transition team worked out an arrangement with her husband, Bill Clinton, on his worldwide charities and business dealings.
LIRR doomsday budget could delay fixing gaps
The Metropolitan Transportation Authority's doomsday budget would delay completion of the Long Island Rail Road's efforts to fix dangerous gaps between platforms and train cars by as much as two years by cutting the number of workers on the project, LIRR officials said Friday.
Anti-war groups fear Obama appointees are too hawkish
WASHINGTON - Anti-war groups and liberal activists are increasingly concerned at signs that Barack Obama's national security team will be dominated by appointees who favored the Iraq invasion and hold hawkish views on other foreign policy issues.
Obama aide says Hillary Clinton to be nominee
An aide to Barack Obama's transition team says the president-elect is on track to nominate Hillary Rodham Clinton as secretary of state after Thanksgiving.
Bill Clinton to name most of his foundation donors
Former President Bill Clinton has agreed to publicly disclose the names of most donors to his presidential foundation and library, a significant concession aimed at helping smooth the path for his wife to become the next secretary of state.
Clinton fans, foes weigh in on secretary of state post
Clinton fans, foes weigh in on secretary of state post
Barack Obama may be the new leader of the free world, but Topic A this week has become the will-she-or-won't-she speculation about Hillary Rodham Clinton and the secretary of state's job.
Obama transition team eyes Bill Clinton's dealings
The all-but-public process of vetting Hillary Rodham Clinton as a potential secretary of state is, by all evidence, now focusing on how to keep her husband's sprawling global network of charitable and private activities from becoming an ethical or national security problem.
Obama transition team eyes Bill Clinton's dealings
The all-but-public process of vetting Hillary Rodham Clinton as a potential secretary of state is, by all evidence, now focusing on how to keep her husband's sprawling global network of charitable and private activities from becoming an ethical or national security problem.
Obama and McCain to work on Washington's "bad habits"
CHICAGO - President-elect Barack Obama and former Republican rival John McCain pledged yesterday to work together on ways to change Washington's "bad habits," though aides to both men said it was unlikely McCain would serve in an Obama Cabinet.
Paterson: He's 'happy serving' as governor
ALBANY - Gov. David A. Paterson yesterday ruled out appointing himself to replace Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton if she were tapped for a cabinet post by President-elect Barack Obama.
Schumer to give away inauguration tickets via lottery
With requests for tickets to President-elect Barack Obama's inauguration pouring in by the thousands, Sen. Charles Schumer yesterday announced a statewide lottery to distribute his office's 350 tickets.
GOP applauds Clinton as potential secretary of state
Yes, there are several names being floated for secretary of state in the Obama administration. But it was the trial balloon named Hillary Rodham Clinton that drew praise from several Republicans this past weekend, as well as from her own husband, who claimed not to be privy to details of her talks with the president-elect.
GOP applauds Hillary as potential secretary of state
Yes, there are several names being floated for secretary of state in the Obama administration. But it was the trial balloon named Hillary Rodham Clinton that drew praise from several Republicans this past weekend, as well as from her own husband, who claimed not to be privy to details of her talks with the president-elect.
Clinton, Obama's foreign policy views not so different
Last February, when Hillary Rodham Clinton had her back to the wall in the Democratic primaries, she questioned Barack Obama's readiness to lead with a TV ad asking voters who they'd want picking up the phone at 3 a.m.
Clinton, Obama's foreign policy views not so different
Last February, when Hillary Rodham Clinton had her back to the wall in the Democratic primaries, she questioned Barack Obama's readiness to lead with a TV ad asking voters who they'd want picking up the phone at 3 a.m.
Long Island libraries an inspirational resource
I agree with your article ["Life-Changing Books," Nov. 8], that books certainly can be life-changing. Some books can be priceless at your neighborhood library! A library card affords entrance to a world of books you can borrow at no charge. Given the trying times today, when everything has a price, why not try out something for free? Why buy what you can rent? And if one book can be life-changing - imagine what hundreds of books at the library can be!
The 'Who might replace Hillary?' guessing game returns
Dust off your scouting reports, update your conspiracy theories, and revise your fantasy baseball sheets.
IF SHE LEAVES SENATE
VACANT SEAT. If Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton were nominated for a federal cabinet post and confirmed by the Senate, she would give up her seat there next year, with four years remaining until her term expires on Dec. 31, 2012.
Bill Clinton's a factor if Hillary is invited to cabinet
WASHINGTON - If Barack Obama asks Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton to be secretary of state, she likely will face questions about the global network her husband Bill has created with his foundation, speaking engagements, and business ventures, experts said Friday.
Is she or isn't she: Will Hillary be Obama Secretary of State?
Speculation continued to swirl Friday on reports that Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton is among contenders for secretary of state in President-elect Barack Obama's administration.
Clinton would bring experience, star power to State
WASHINGTON - Traveled to more than 80 countries - check. Formulated foreign policy platform as presidential candidate - check. Serve on Senate Armed Services Committee - check.
Will she or won't she -- be Obama sec'y of state?
Speculation continued to swirl Friday on reports that Sen. Hillary Clinton is the top candidate for secretary of state in President-elect Barack Obama's administration.
WORLD & NATION UPDATE: AT HOME
The mother was running out of more than patience when she abandoned her 18-year-old daughter at a hospital in Lincoln last weekend under Nebraska's safe-haven law. She was also running out of time: State lawmakers would soon meet to amend the law so that it would apply to newborns only. To the state's embarrassment, more than half of 33 children legally abandoned since the law took effect in mid-July have been teenagers. It was intended to save "Dumpster babies" by allowing desperate young mothers to abandon their newborns at hospitals without fear of prosecution. But the law uses only the word "child." The Lincoln mother said her 18-year-old had been diagnosed with a mental illness when she was 12 and had psychological scars from childhood abuse. State authorities refused to take her into custody, saying Nebraska law on juveniles does not let authorities take in anyone older than 17. The woman left with her daughter.
Sources: Hillary Clinton considered for secretary of state
Could a plum spot in Barack Obama's administration be in the offing for Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton?
Edwards sticks to politics during speech
BLOOMINGTON, Ind. - John Edwards didn't have to dodge tough questions from an Indiana University audience yesterday, when the former presidential candidate returned to the stage three months after admitting to an extramarital affair.
Bush helps rededicate newly restored Intrepid
Marking his final Veterans Day in office, President George W. Bush landed in a helicopter on the flight deck of the newly restored aircraft carrier Intrepid Tuesday and helped rededicate the popular shipboard museum at Pier 86 on the Hudson River.
TRANSITION WATCH
Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton's former campaign manager has been approached by President-elect Barack Obama's transition aides about taking a senior White House post, Democratic officials say. They say Patti Solis Doyle is considering taking the job, although she worries about the effect it would have on her two young children. She was contacted about possibly becoming cabinet secretary, a job that involves coordinating the efforts of the White House and cabinet-level agencies. The officials who described the developments did so on condition of anonymity, saying they were not authorized to disclose them. Doyle has worked for Clinton in a number of capacities, first in the White House and most recently when she made her bid for the Democratic presidential nomination.
Young: Was Palin's candidacy a step forward for women?
Election 2008, which shattered the ultimate barrier by bringing an African-American to the White House, also turned out to be the Year of the Woman Who Failed.
RUNNING FOR PRESIDENT
Obama officially launches his campaign Feb. 19, 2007, in Springfield, Ill., in front of the Old State Capitol building where Abraham Lincoln once served. Twenty-one days earlier, on Jan. 20, Hillary Rodham Clinton had announced her intent to run for president, and she is seen as the favorite for the Democratic nomination.
POLITICAL RISE
Obama becomes a community organizer in Chicago in 1985 with the Developing Communities Group, an experience he calls the best education of his life and which he says leads him to Christianity.
Descendants of slave mark significance of Obama victory
Michael Higgins didn't go to the polls alone on Election Day.
Obama adds North Carolina to White House win
RALEIGH, N.C. - President-elect Barack Obama won North Carolina yesterday, a symbolic triumph that underscored his political strength as he turned nine states that President George W. Bush won in 2004 to Democratic blue.
For Schumer, undecided Senate seats still in play
WASHINGTON - For Sen. Charles Schumer (D-N.Y.), the 2008 election continues.
First lady Michelle Obama's top priority is family
Chicago native Michelle Obama will turn 45 just three days before she is set to take on a new title: first lady.
Obama has to touch many bases in picking 15 for cabinet
Now that he's won the presidency, Barack Obama faces a "Rubik's Cube-type" task in forming a cabinet that can both run the federal bureaucracy and satisfy the political, geographic and ethnic interests vying for representation on it, experts said yesterday.
Obama taps Illinois Rep. Emanuel as chief of staff
WASHINGTON - President-elect Barack Obama pivoted quickly to begin filling out his new administration yesterday, selecting hard-charging Illinois Rep. Rahm Emanuel as White House chief of staff.
Fashionistas excited about Michelle Obama's style
Barbara Bush did the matronly thing when it came to fashion. Hillary Rodham Clinton is a pantsuit kinda gal. Laura Bush depended on classics from Oscar de la Renta and Carolina Herrera for her ladylike, if not particularly distinctive, flair.
Campaign '08 ignites young Long Islanders' interest
From get-out-the-vote drives on college campuses to student blogs from the campaign trail, this presidential election unleashed a wave of enthusiasm among young voters.
Obama's next task: Form cabinet, White House staff
Now that he's won the presidency, Barack Obama faces a "Rubik's Cube-type" task in forming a cabinet that can both run the federal bureaucracy and satisfy the political, geographic and ethnic interests vying for representation on it, experts said yesterday.
Grassroots efforts shifted red to blue on LI
The nation's red and blue map wasn't the only one that changed with the election of Barack Obama as the nation's 44th president.
Fashionistas excited about Michelle Obama's style
Barbara Bush did the grandma thing when it came to fashion. Hillary Rodham Clinton is a pantsuit kinda gal. Laura Bush depended on classics from Oscar de la Renta and Carolina Herrera for her ladylike, if not particularly distinctive, flair.
Campaign '08 ignites young Long Islanders' interest
From get-out-the-vote drives on college campuses to student blogs from the campaign trail, this presidential election unleashed a wave of enthusiasm among young voters.
Reps all hold on to power
A new president in the White House is likely to face a wish list from Long Island's congressional delegation as lengthy as any department store Santa's.
Jon Cooper's fortunes rise on Obama win
In the past 20 months, Jon Cooper went from being an eight-year Suffolk legislator to Long Island's go-to guy on Barack Obama's presidential campaign.
Voting to expand our kids' American dream
I did not have to sell very hard to persuade my children to join me in the voting booth yesterday. At 9 and 11, they have been fascinated by the dramatic turns of this election for almost a year. They followed along as I made my choices, then each put a hand on the red-topped lever to register the vote, and they pulled.
Jon Cooper's fortunes rise on Obama win
In the past 20 months, Jon Cooper went from being an eight-year Suffolk legislator to Long Island's go-to guy on Barack Obama's presidential campaign.
New president faces wish list from Island's reps in House
A new president in the White House is likely to face a wish list from Long Island's congressional delegation as lengthy as any department store Santa's.
Better food-safety alert system urged
Richard Lin, manager of the Warehouse Food Outlet in Hicksville, seemed shocked to learn recently that he had cookies on his shelves that had been on the Food and Drug Administration's recall list for almost two weeks because of possible melamine contamination.
Paterson: NY unlikely to see more money after election
ALBANY - New York probably won't see a significant increase in federal aid if Democrat Barack Obama wins the White House, Gov. David A. Paterson said yesterday.
Leaders, groups want upgrade of food safety alert
Richard Lin, manager of the Warehouse Food Outlet in Hicksville, seemed shocked to learn recently that he had cookies on his shelves that had been on the Food and Drug Administration's recall list for almost two weeks because of possible melamine contamination.
Monday-morning quarterbacking the political campaigns
On the eve of this political judgment day, reviews have already begun of what could have been done and what should or should not have been said. To honor the wrap-up of this longest-ever, costliest-ever national campaign, here's a bipartisan sampling of statements that our power players would like to have worded differently, or not made at all, or later apologized for, or would just as soon have everyone forget:
Monday-morning quarterbacking the political campaigns
On the eve of this political judgment day, reviews have already begun of what could have been done and what should or should not have been said. To honor the wrap-up of this longest-ever, costliest-ever national campaign, here's a bipartisan sampling of statements that our power players would like to have worded differently, or not made at all, or later apologized for, or would just as soon have everyone forget:
History just a few days away
WASHINGTON - On Tuesday night, history will walk across the American stage, no matter who wins.
GOP's influence in Suffolk will be tested Election Day
Republicans still outnumber Democrats in Suffolk County, but their influence will be tested on Election Day.
Vote for gay marriage a tough call this election
Vice presidential candidate Gov. Sarah Palin recently broke from her running mate, Sen. John McCain, by announcing that she would support a constitutional amendment banning gay marriage.
Manorville residents look past economic, tax woes
If John McCain manages to trump the pollsters and pundits by winning the presidency on Tuesday, it will be because of the support found in places like Manorville.
Tuesday surprise possible, depending on expectations
Every round of legislative elections seems to bring a surprise.
An Obama camp first: Bill Clinton joins him on trail
KISSIMMEE, Fla. - Portraying harmony like never before, Bill Clinton hailed Barack Obama yesterday, a power pairing designed to inspire Democrats already smelling victory.
He said, she said on president race
John McCain supporters, take heart: This thing's not over.
Still on the fence?
Greenlawn, a Suffolk County community south of Centerport and east of Huntington, has a low-key, hometown vibe and a comfortable mix of blue and white collars. Business may be slower than usual on its tree-lined main street, Broadway, but traffic is still steady with people dropping off dry cleaning and picking up pizza.
Campaign '08: A view from Greenlawn
Greenlawn, a Suffolk County community south of Centerport and east of Huntington, has a low-key, hometown vibe and a comfortable mix of blue and white collars. Business may be slower than usual on its tree-lined main street, Broadway, but traffic is still steady with people dropping off dry cleaning and picking up pizza.
Obama gives his closing argument in pivotal Ohio
CANTON, Ohio - Closing his case for the presidency, Barack Obama promised yesterday to restore economic prosperity and a sense of "higher purpose" to a tired, embattled nation.
Amy Poehler of "Saturday Night Live" gives birth to boy
"Saturday Night Live" just won't be the same without Amy Poehler - who gave birth to a son hours before the "Baby Mama" star was to appear on the NBC show, The Associated Press reports.
King, lone LI Republican, stands firmly with Bush
WASHINGTON - With Republican presidential nominee John McCain denouncing the Bush administration and the president nowhere to be found in close Senate and House races, Rep. Peter King nonetheless is standing firmly behind President George W. Bush.
McCain, Obama campaign in New Mexico, Nevada
ALBUQUERQUE - John McCain and Barack Obama's presidential duel moved west yesterday as the candidates held rallies in New Mexico and Nevada, key contests in the final 10 days of the race.
Candidate's new clothes
Even the mice knew that Cinderella needed a new frock and shoes in order to get attention at the prince's ball.
Obama crisscrosses Florida as early voting begins
TAMPA, Fla. - Barack Obama yesterday promised he would halt foreclosures in this hard-hit state, but his campaign suffered a blow itself as it announced Obama would cancel events Thursday and Friday to visit his suddenly gravely ill grandmother in Hawaii.
Plumbing the depths of Nassau County politics
How ironic was it that Sen. John McCain chose the Town of Hempstead as the place to start making Joe the Plumber into a campaign legend as he attacked Sen. Barack Obama's tax plan in their final debate?
Red states slip from GOP grip
WASHINGTON - In presidential politics, states don't get much more Republican red than Indiana.
6th District Assembly race seems sure thing for Ramos
Democratic Assemblyman Phil Ramos of Central Islip is all but certain to retake his 6th Assembly District seat for a fourth term in office.
Uncertainty in red states hurting McCain
In presidential politics, states don't get much more Republican red than Indiana.
LI's Democratic reps score high on conservation report
WASHINGTON - A National Environmental Scorecard released Friday rates Long Island's four Democratic U.S. representatives among the most pro-environment lawmakers in the state, while Republican Rep. Peter King tied for second worst.
Rail transit unions reject need to tighten disability
Leaders from a dozen transit unions have written New York's congressional delegation urging members to reject an overhaul of the federal pension system that has allowed nearly all railroad workers who apply for disability benefits to receive them.
Rail unions reject need to tighten disability
Leaders from a dozen transit unions have written New York's congressional delegation urging members to reject an overhaul of the federal pension system that has allowed nearly all railroad workers who apply for disability benefits to receive them.
Obama and McCain trade humorous shots at Smith dinner
With 18 days left to go, John McCain and Barack Obama spent Thursday campaigning in crucial swing states, fundraising and briefly sharing a stage, where they took shots at themselves and each other.
Obama and McCain trade humorous shots at Smith dinner
With 18 days left to go, John McCain and Barack Obama spent Thursday campaigning in crucial swing states, fundraising and briefly sharing a stage, where they took shots at themselves and each other.
Candidates try to make points in testy debate
In their last and most aggressive debate, John McCain and Barack Obama brought their increasingly negative campaigning to an across-the-table conversation that often grew testy, even as they tried to make their economic and domestic policies relevant to the average voter.
At long last, a debate with fireworks
Again, Sen. Barack Obama sported an American-flag lapel pin.
Punchlines
Comedy writer Doug Austen: "In an interview with Fox News, Hillary Clinton says her chances of running for president again are 'Probably close to zero.' Translation: She hasn't yet chosen a design for the Hillary 2012 bumper sticker."
Political, union activists rally for Obama near Hofstra
About 1,000 union and political activists whooped and shouted their way through a late-evening rally yesterday in Eisenhower Park in East Meadow, less than two miles from the site of the presidential debate.
At long last, a debate with fireworks
Again, Sen. Barack Obama sported an American-flag lapel pin.
Candidates try to make points in testy debate
In their last and most aggressive debate, John McCain and Barack Obama brought their increasingly negative campaigning to an across-the-table conversation that often grew testy, even as they tried to make their economic and domestic policies relevant to the average voter.
Report: McCain sought Clintons' advice on mortgage mess
On Sept. 24, John McCain called Hillary Rodham Clinton to ask about her proposal for the federal government to buy up bad mortgages, according to Politico.com.
A thousand rally for Obama at Eisenhower Park
About 1,000 union and political activists whooped and shouted their way through a late afternoon rally Wednesday in Eisenhower Park, less than two miles from the site of the presidential debate.
Boo! There's a Halloween costume for you
Whether you're a follower or an iconoclast, there's a costume out there for you. But just like the perfect mate, the challenge is finding it. Here are some outposts where transformation awaits.
Hillary Clinton downplays another White House run
WASHINGTON - Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton puts the chances of her running for president again at near zero - slightly higher than the chances she gives for becoming Senate majority leader or a Supreme Court justice.
Hillary Clinton campaigns for Obama in Philadelphia
PHILADELPHIA - Seeing the U.S. in an economic crisis eight years after Democrats left the nation in sound fiscal shape is heartbreaking, Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton said yesterday.
Presidential debate a hot topic at Hofstra University
Wonder what Harriet Tubman might say about Barack Obama running for president? Or how Susan B. Anthony would feel about Hillary Rodham Clinton's candidacy?
Halloween costume shops
Whether you're a follower or an iconoclast, there's a costume out there for you. But just like the perfect mate, the challenge is finding it. Here are some outposts where transformation awaits.
Presidential debate a hot topic at Hofstra University
Wonder what Harriet Tubman might say about Barack Obama running for president? Or how Susan B. Anthony would feel about Hillary Clinton's candidacy?
Some want presidential debate to take up immigration
Immigration policy has drawn remarkably little mention in this huge general-election campaign - and some want to see the presidential candidates confront the issue in their final debate Wednesday at Hofstra University.
Biden says McCain's barbs trying to distract voters
SCRANTON, Pa. - Democratic vice-presidential candidate Joe Biden yesterday accused the McCain campaign of trying to distract Americans from their economic woes by launching "unbecoming personal attacks" at Barack Obama.
Palin criticizes Obama's position on abortion
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. - Republican vice-presidential nominee Sarah Palin has turned her attention toward attacking Barack Obama's position on abortion.
Newsday poll: VP picks have little effect on Long Island
For all the hubbub over Sarah Palin and Joe Biden, they've had little effect on how most Long Islanders are choosing a presidential candidate this year.
Rocco DiSpirito may have to leave 'Dancing'
THE DANCING FOOL: Rocco's goose may be cooked
Some LIRR retirees could lose disability pensions
Some Long Island Rail Road retirees who took advantage of a federal disability pension that gave benefits to nearly anyone who applied could have those benefits taken away if changes being considered by the U.S. Railroad Retirement Board are enacted, federal lawmakers from New York said after meeting Friday with the retirement board's members.
Gloria Steinem to be at Hofstra two days before debate
Just two days before the presidential debate at Hofstra University, feminist icon Gloria Steinem is scheduled to appear there to tackle the issue of gender and race in politics.
Lawmakers seek swift probe of LIRR disability payouts
New York congressional leaders plan to meet today in Manhattan with members of the U.S. Railroad Retirement Board to discuss reform of the agency, which is under scrutiny for granting disability benefits to nearly everyone who applies for them - including a large number of Long Island Rail Road retirees, officials said yesterday.
McCain's plan for troubled home loans called impractical
WASHINGTON - John McCain's proposal to have the federal government directly buy and refinance troubled home loans would cost about $300 billion, his campaign said yesterday, as the plan was criticized in light of the scale of the mortgage meltdown.
McCain, Obama offer very different health care plans
It would be hard to come up with two more starkly different approaches to reforming American health care than those advanced by presidential nominees John McCain and Barack Obama.
LI Democrats plan outdoor pre-debate Obama rally
Long Island Democrats plan an open-air rally at Eisenhower Park on the day of the final presidential debate at Hofstra University to whip up support for Barack Obama.
ON THE TRAIL
The son of a Democratic Tennessee state lawmaker pleaded not guilty yesterday to hacking the e-mail account of Republican vice presidential candidate Sarah Palin. David Kernell, 20, of Knoxville, Tenn., entered the plea in federal court in Knoxville, the same day prosecutors unsealed an indictment charging him with intentionally accessing Palin's e-mail account without authorization. Kernell, an economics student at the University of Tennessee, was brought into court wearing handcuffs and shackles on his ankles. He was released without posting bond, but the court limited his computer use to checking his own e-mail and doing class work. Kernell's father is Rep. Mike Kernell of Memphis.
Numbers show GOP's hold on Nassau has vanished
Ronald Reagan would not recognize Nassau County today.
GOP's hold on Nassau vanishes
Ronald Reagan would not recognize Nassau County, as its Democratic leaders yesterday said they have a voter registration edge over the Grand Old Party.
Clinton: Use bailout funds for small business, students
WASHINGTON - Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton (D-N.Y.) yesterday called on the Treasury Department to allocate $150 billion of the recently approved $700-billion economic rescue package to struggling small businesses, colleges, students and municipalities.
Rep. King's opponent blasts his support of bailout
Congressman Peter King's Democrat opponent yesterday lambasted the recent Bush administration-approved $700-billion bailout for Wall Street financial institutions, as well as King's support of it.
State to give company $1.2 billion to move here
ALBANY - Despite a fiscal crisis hitting the state and a $2-billion budget shortfall for the year, Gov. David A. Paterson said yesterday that the state will go ahead with a plan to bring a new microchip plant upstate, luring the company with $1.2 billion in financial support.
Clinton: Use bailout funds for small business, students
Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton yesterday called on the Treasury Department to allocate $150 billion of the recently approved $700 billion economic rescue package to struggling small businesses, colleges, students and municipalities.
Steve Israel skillfully uses incumbency to gird for challenger
WASHINGTON - With the Capitol dome behind him on a recent clear day, Rep. Steve Israel unveiled a legislative package to help the middle class: 13 bills that he conceded could not be enacted until next year.
Nation in brief: Supreme Court keeping a low profile
The Supreme Court is doing its best to stay out of the spotlight in the final days of the presidential campaign and while the other two branches of government struggle to deal with turmoil in the financial markets. The justices open their new term tomorrow with no cases on abortion, race or other social issues that might split the court and the nation. The most entertaining case of the term involves celebrities' use of profanity on live television.
LIRR's largest unions have donated thousands to LI politicians
The LIRR's largest unions, under scrutiny for its members' huge numbers of disability pensions, have donated tens of thousands of dollars to local politicians in the past decade, campaign finance records show.
LIRR head calls for disability system overhaul
Saying she could not stand idle as Long Island Rail Road employees continue to abuse a flawed pension system that grants disability benefits to nearly anyone who applies, railroad president Helena Williams yesterday called for widespread reforms both at the federal level and in her own agency.
Lazio admits mistake in debate with Clinton
Eight years ago, Rick Lazio walked across a debate stage in Buffalo and stuffed a campaign pledge in front of Hillary Rodham Clinton.
What Biden, Palin must accomplish in their debate
WASHINGTON - Sarah Palin can't sound like comedian Tina Fey.
Crisis on the home front
While Washington's big dogs are trying to rescue the country's banking system from the top, things are getting steadily worse here on the ground. Lenders repossessed 134 homes on Long Island last month. That's despite millions of state dollars being funneled into agencies that provide foreclosure prevention counseling and legal services.
What Biden, Palin must accomplish in their debate
WASHINGTON - Sarah Palin can't sound like comedian Tina Fey.
Geraldine Ferraro, Sarah Palin: a woman's impact
By the time vice-presidential candidate Geraldine Ferraro took the stage at Philadelphia's Civic Center 24 years ago for the very first debate featuring a woman on a national ticket, weeks of punishing media coverage about her finances had already turned any advantage gained by the novelty of her selection into a political liability.
Clinton speaks to Long Island business, civic group
The fundamentals of the economy may not be so strong, but Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton has crafted her own reply to John McCain's fumbled pep talk earlier this month.
Minister, a German citizen, caught in immigration tangle
Preaching in a Lutheran church in Franklin Square on Sundays, the Rev. Haiko Behrens speaks in English and German about the importance of love, mercy and compassion.
Women are starting to achieve political parity
I moved to New York in 1984, during the '80s version of our nation's "historic year for women's leadership." Before there was talk of Hillary Rodham Clinton and Sarah Palin, New York was abuzz with women taking the political lead: Geraldine Ferraro had just been named the first woman to appear at the top of a major party ticket, Elizabeth Holtzman had just served three Congressional terms, and the indomitable Bella Abzug was planning her next foray into politics.
LI House delegation to back $700B bailout
Members of Long Island's congressional delegation said they will vote today for a $700-billion rescue of the country's financial markets.
Mayor may be Carolyn McCarthy's major rival in years
After nearly 12 years in Washington, Carolyn McCarthy is no longer a newcomer to politics.
ON THE TRAIL
While neither candidate decisively won the debate nor committed any game-changing gaffe, that didn't prevent each campaign from proclaiming victory and spending much of yesterday trying to shape perceptions of the forum in the days going forward. Obama's campaign quickly produced an advertisement criticizing McCain for never uttering the term "middle class" in the debate. McCain's campaign meanwhile readied a spot on a topic that came up in the debate: Obama's vote in 2007 against funding troops in Iraq and Afghanistan. The ad uses the words of Obama's running mate, Joe Biden, against him, saying the Illinois senator had been trying to make a political point by voting in 2007 against a funding bill for troops in Iraq and Afghanistan. Biden will debate GOP vice presidential contender Sarah Palin Thursday at Washington University in St. Louis.
After debate, race between McCain, Obama still tight
Their first debate behind them, Barack Obama and John McCain head into the homestretch with the race largely where it was before the debate - tight but tilting toward Obama.
Review: "American Wife" by Curtis Sittenfeld
AMERICAN WIFE, by Curtis Sittenfeld. Random House, 558 pp., 26.
Clinton asks CDC to probe if foreclosures, West Nile are linked
Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton called on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Friday to examine a possible connection between foreclosures and the West Nile virus.
Economy's meltdown moves NY pols to center stage
Less than nine months ago, many people believed that one of this state's two Democratic U.S. senators would appear in a national spotlight this fall.
McCain: After Wall Street bailout, more oversight
FREELAND, Mich. - Republican presidential candidate John McCain said yesterday that he supports a $700-billion bailout of U.S. financial markets, but suggested improvements to the Bush administration's proposal to increase oversight and limit compensation for executives.
Hillary Clinton: "No doubt" Obama will be president
WASHINGTON - Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton said yesterday Barack Obama is going to be elected the next president and that she has "no doubt" about it.
Report says financial sector gave nearly $24M to NY pols
The financial services sector, one of the most powerful lobbying forces in Washington, D.C., shelled out more than $23.2 million over six years to New York's two U.S. senators and about $661,000 in the past two years to the Long Island House delegation, according to the Center for Responsive Politics.
Senators insist bailout not reward Wall Street insiders
IN A DAY of often rancorous debate, members of a Senate panel insisted that any federal bailout of financial firms should not reward the Wall Street insiders who caused the meltdown or ignore taxpayers and struggling homeowners.
Paterson: Congress should probe LIRR disability plan
Gov. David A. Paterson yesterday asked Congress to launch an investigation into possible abuses of a federal disability compensation plan by employees of the Long Island Rail Road.
McCain wants nongovernmental oversight on $700B plan
SCRANTON, Pa. - Republican John McCain yesterday called for greater oversight of the Bush administration's proposed bailout of U.S. financial markets, saying the massive $700-billion plan being crafted by Treasury Secretary Henry Paulson needed broader supervision.
Paterson asks feds to help LI hard clams fisheries
Citing the dramatic decline of hard clams in the Great South Bay and persistent water quality problems there, Gov. David A. Paterson asked the federal Commerce Department to declare a commercial fishery failure.
Poll suggests race could cost Obama White House
WASHINGTON - Deep-seated racial misgivings could cost Barack Obama the White House if the election is close, according to an AP-Yahoo News poll that found one-third of white Democrats harbor negative views toward blacks - many calling them "lazy," "violent" or responsible for their own troubles.
Turn up the heat on heating help
While Wall Street rode a roller coaster last week, the bottom dropped out less dramatically for a number of working-class people - those who will lose jobs or who depend on stock dividends, like some retirees. This group, which generally never looks to government for help, joins the already vulnerable who are facing a cold winter, with fuel bills expected to be far higher than they were last year.
WAY TO GO! 'Junior' at Dems' convention
Julie Greenberg, a senior at Syosset High School, was one of 250 students nationwide to recently attend the Democratic National Convention through Junior State of America, a nonpartisan political organization for high schoolers. Greenberg networked with government officials and attended Sen. Barack Obama's Aug. 28 acceptance speech, in which he promised a break from the "broken politics in Washington."
LI pols: Don't neglect middle class in bailout
WASHINGTON - Long Island congressional leaders said they supported the idea of a sweeping federal bailout of financial companies - but also said the government must take care of the middle class along the way.
ON THE TRAIL
Hillary Rodham Clinton is stepping up efforts to swing her supporters behind Democratic presidential candidate Barack Obama, her former rival for the nomination. In an outreach dubbed "Hillary Sent Me," the New York senator was inviting her primary-season partisans in Minneapolis Friday to get involved directly in Obama's campaign and donate to it. As part of that, she was urging them to travel to a specific battleground state each weekend, beginning with New Hampshire next Saturday, when she will campaign for Obama in Michigan.
Jewish groups disinvite Palin to anti-Iran event
WASHINGTON - First, no Hillary. Now, no Sarah.
Looking at Hillary's stumping for Obama
After most members had left the Democratic state committee meeting on Monday evening, Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton greeted a small gathering of party regulars and activists in a penthouse suite at the Sheraton New York in midtown and talked about Barack Obama's presidential campaign.
Turmoil in wake of rally that sought Palin, Clinton
WASHINGTON - Hillary Rodham Clinton dropped out of an anti-Iran rally at the United Nations Monday, but Sarah Palin will be there and will try to use her visit to full advantage - meeting with overseas leaders as a way to burnish her foreign policy credentials.
Clinton fundraiser backs McCain over Obama
WASHINGTON - A top Hillary Rodham Clinton fundraiser threw her support behind Republican John McCain yesterday, saying he will lead the country in a centrist fashion and accusing the Democrats of becoming too extreme.
Clinton plays it cool while stumping for Obama in Ohio
CLEVELAND - Hillary Rodham Clinton went back to work for Barack Obama's presidential campaign in the battleground state of Ohio yesterday, but amid rapidly heating political rhetoric in the race she continued to play it cool.
Biden plans to do more to promote Obama, knock McCain
MANCHESTER, N.H. - The vice-presidential nominee you aren't hearing so much about, Democrat Joe Biden, is planning a more prominent role to help validate Barack Obama among white working-class voters and criticize the Republican rival he's long called a friend.
Palin defends projects she sought fed funding for
Republican vice-presidential candidate Sarah Palin on Friday defended the nearly $200 million in federal pet projects she sought as Alaska governor this year even as John McCain told a television audience she had never requested them.
Saturday Night Live still casting for a Palin ringer
Tina Fey as Sarah Palin on " Saturday Night Live?" The possibility is alluring, no doubt - if only because they (sort of) resemble each other. And yesterday, show czar Lorne Michaels confirmed: It could still happen.
Obama, Bill Clinton meet up in Harlem
Barack Obama took a break from the campaign trail yesterday but did the next best thing, talking politics, national security and the economy with Bill Clinton, who knows a thing or two about winning national elections.
McCain's lipstick attacks on Obama smudge campaign
'Now it's getting really dirty," gasped the lead in one city paper.
ON THE TRAIL
Joe Biden says Hillary Rodham Clinton might have been a better pick for the No. 2 spot on the Democratic ticket than he. A YouTube video showed Biden telling an audience in Nashua, N.H., yesterday that, "Hillary Clinton is as qualified or more qualified than I am for vice president of the United States of America ... And, quite frankly, it might have been a better choice than me."
Democrats worry about gains made by GOP ticket
While Barack Obama spent yesterday explaining lipstick, pigs and politics, many Democrats spent the day nervous that their White House takeover plans were coming undone by a Palin-powered ticket.
ON THE TRAIL
Democratic presidential nominee Barack Obama said yesterday that GOP presidential nominee John McCain says he'll change Washington, but he's just like President George W. Bush. "You can put lipstick on a pig," he said to an outbreak of laughter, clearly drawing a connection to a joke by Republican vice-presidential nominee Sarah Palin's joke that lipstick is the only thing that separates a hockey mom like her from a pit bull. "It's still a pig. You can wrap an old fish in a piece of paper called change. It's still going to stink after eight years." McCain's campaign called on Obama to apologize for calling Palin a pig. Obama's campaign said he wasn't referring to Palin, but to McCain. McCain has used the lipstick phrase, too. Last year he said Hillary Rodham Clinton's health plan resembled the failed one she offered as first lady during the 1990s. "I think they put some lipstick on a pig, but it's still a pig," McCain said.
Clinton focuses on issues, not Palin, at Fla. rally
KISSIMMEE, Fla. - Anyone wanting a Hillary vs. Sarah smackdown might be in for a letdown.
Cabrera, Ramos to face off in 1 of 13 LI primary races
Political heavyweights from Gov. David A. Paterson to County Executive Steve Levy have weighed in on the Democratic primary between Assemb. Philip Ramos and his challenger Waldo Cabrera. Today the Democrats in the 6th Assembly District have their say.
Biden says Palin hasn't aired her stance on issues
WASHINGTON - Democrat Joe Biden says he's debated "an awful lot of tough, smart women" throughout his career and that next month's vice-presidential debate with Republican Sarah Palin will be no exception. But he'd like to know where she stands on issues.
Children copy it all: Palin, our partisan battles
I was overcome with pride when I saw Gov. Sarah Palin first address a national crowd at the end of August, after she was introduced as John McCain's vice-presidential pick.
Long Island primaries feature series of rematches
Long Island's primaries Tuesday could be considered the political version of television summer reruns.
Palin questions Biden's record as 'agent of change'
COLORADO SPRINGS - Republican vice-presidential nominee Sarah Palin yesterday challenged the reform credentials of her Democratic counterpart, Joe Biden, contrasting his many years and many friends in Washington with her reputation as a reformist outsider.
Parties over
The last colorful balloon has dropped in St. Paul. The faux-Greek columns have been struck in Denver. The Republican and Democratic conventions, with their silly hats and swooning partisans, are history. We've had our diversions. Will Hillary Clinton get with the program? Can Sarah Palin deliver red (moose) meat? Will Barack Obama's stagecraft dwarf his message? Can John McCain spark it up?
The big one could be coming - are you ready?
Coming so soon after the televised images of Hurricane Gustav on the Gulf Coast, the wet and windy embrace of Tropical Storm Hanna delivers to our own doorstep this useful message: Beware, and be ready.
Obama: McCain speech out-of touch with middle class
DURYEA, Pa. - Democrat Barack Obama called Republican rival John McCain's acceptance speech the final piece of an out-of-touch convention that focused on its nominee's biography instead of the struggles of the middle class.
Livni may become first Israeli female leader since Meir
JERUSALEM - For the first time since Golda Meir more than three decades ago, a woman is within reach of becoming the prime minister of Israel, a nation dominated by macho military men and a religious establishment with strict views on the role of women.
PALIN PITCHES: VP hardball
ST. PAUL, Minn. - Capping a five-day rise from near-obscurity to the cusp of history, Sarah Palin accepted the Republican vice-presidential nomination last night with a wry but blistering attack on Barack Obama - while portraying herself as a no-nonsense PTA mom who will help John McCain put the "Washington elite" on the run.
Giuliani's spirited attack on Obama: 'He led nothing'
ST. PAUL, Minn. - Ridiculing Sen. Barack Obama, citing the Sept. 11 attacks anew and suggesting that freedom and safety depend on John McCain's election, former New York City Mayor Rudy Giuliani stirred the convention hall as a buildup to Sarah Palin, the vice-presidential candidate, last night's main event.
Palin pick expected to boost Clinton's role for Obama
The naming of Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin as Republican presidential candidate John McCain's running mate has boosted the importance of New York Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton's help to his Democratic opponent, campaign operatives say - but not for the reasons you might think.
McCain needs to take the reins at GOP podium
ST. PAUL, Minn. - When John McCain steps up to the podium tonight to accept the Republican nomination for president, he must make one thing clear: The "maverick" is back and it's his party now.
Obama focuses on women's issues in Ohio
NEW PHILADELPHIA, Ohio - Seeking to capitalize on the inroads he's made with Hillary Rodham Clinton Democrats, particularly women, Barack Obama yesterday held a small economics forum centered on women's issues in this swing state, signaling that his campaign isn't going to cede any ground or momentum to the Republican ticket.
Polls: Obama makes inroads with Clinton voters
CHICAGO - As Barack Obama prepares to resume campaigning today, polls show that he has made inroads with former Hillary Rodham Clinton backers and hit the 50 percent support mark among registered voters for the first time.
MORE IN ISLIP GOP WANT TO OUST TRUNZO AS LEADER
Paterson won't join party's disparaging of Sarah Palin
ISLIP GOP: More want Trunzo to yield reins
Key role for America's mayor
Rudy Giuliani, the fast-moving conventional wisdom now has it, is the wrong choice to deliver the keynote address at the Republican convention in St. Paul this week. The New York and Long Island native who's never been more than a mayor was debunked as a national figure, goes the thinking, by his poor performance in the GOP primaries, where he'd once been the favorite.
August surprise
Who? That had to be a common reaction to presumptive Republican presidential nominee John McCain's choice of Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin as his running mate. He presented her in Ohio Friday as a maverick and a reformer. But Palin, 44, is also a neophyte on the national political stage, has no foreign policy experience and is a relative unknown outside her home state.
Analysis: Clinton does her part for Obama, party
DENVER - Hillary Rodham Clinton arrived in the Mile High City last week viewed by many as the bitter also-ran, a lurking threat to steal Democratic presidential nominee Barack Obama's limelight and spoil his big week.
Dems rally for Obama at Ohio congresswoman's memorial
DUBLIN, Ohio - A memorial service for an Ohio congresswoman turned into a rallying cry for party unity and a strong show of support for Barack Obama yesterday, as the Clintons and Obama flanked the stage and took turns at the podium.
Ex-LI woman thrust into DNC spotlight
Former Long Island resident Janet Lynn Monaco said she simply pretended the more than 75,000 people at Denver's Invesco Field - and the millions more watching on nationwide TV - weren't there Thursday night when she delivered a short talk just before Barack Obama took the stage.
5 things McCain must do at convention
PITTSBURGH - John McCain has given people a reason to watch the Republican Convention this week - to find out just who is this hard-charging Alaskan governor that McCain made his historic choice as the first woman on a GOP presidential ticket.
Why Obama treads carefully on GOP's veep pick
PITTSBURGH - With one calculating ad and a surprising vice-presidential nomination, Republican John McCain is seeking to turn the tables on Democrat Barack Obama.
MILESTONES FOR WOMEN IN U.S. POLITICS
1848: First women's rights convention is held, in Seneca Falls, N.Y.
LI Republicans praise McCain's choice of Palin
Top Long Island Republicans praised John McCain's vice presidential choice of Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin on Friday though some admitted they knew next to nothing about her.
Obama's reversal
MONACA, Pa. - Barack Obama's spokesman fired off a fast criticism of Republican John McCain's new running mate Friday, but the Democratic candidate himself quickly stepped in to offer her congratulations and praise.
For women voters, Palin's gender may be her only draw
DENVER - Hillary Clinton's supporters were clamoring just a week ago to see a woman added to a presidential ticket.
Palin brings excitement, but little experience, to ticket
DAYTON, Ohio - By unexpectedly choosing Sarah Palin as his running mate Friday, Republican John McCain appears to be gambling that the excitement and energy she brings to the ticket will outweigh her obscurity and inexperience.
DNC NOTES
Democratic presidential candidate Barack Obama may have missed a chance to score bigger with New Yorkers who supported their senator, Hillary Rodham Clinton. Democratic Gov. David A. Paterson says Obama could have overcome disappointment in the New York delegation over Clinton's loss by stopping by to visit or sending a top surrogate. Paterson, who had supported New York Sen. Clinton, says it would have been wise for Obama to try to defuse hurt feelings among New York's Democrats. Paterson made the comments from Denver to Talk 1300 AM radio in Albany. Paterson says he doesn't think Obama made a mistake, but he may have missed an opportunity to win over New Yorkers more quickly.
Crowds awaited Obama with sense of history, excitement
DENVER - Hiawatha Foster, a North Carolina delegate to the Democratic National Convention, already had two flags in her hands ready to wave yesterday afternoon, and an American flag jacket she said she'd worn to other political events.
Obama is first African-American presidential nominee
DENVER - In a watershed moment that drew tears of amazement and joy on the convention floor, Illinois Sen. Barack Obama secured a place in history last night, becoming the first African-American presidential nominee of a major party.
Lawyer named as new Nassau County public administrator
A politically connected attorney has been selected as the new $134-000-a-year public administrator of Nassau County, a highly coveted position from which he can appoint lawyers to handle the estates of people who die without leaving a will.
DNC 2008: THE LI POLS
Question: "Coming from Hillary Rodham Clinton's home state, what goes through your mind as the first African-American major-party nominee moves ahead into his general- election run?"
Rudy, Republicans hammer at Obama's experience
DENVER - Former New York City Mayor Rudy Giuliani appeared a few miles from the convention hall where Barack Obama was to be nominated and cited past statements from Giuliani's twice would-be rival Hillary Rodham Clinton to make his case for Sen. John McCain.
Obama is first African-American presidential nominee
DENVER - In a watershed moment that drew tears of amazement and joy on the convention floor, Illinois Sen. Barack Obama secured a place in history last night, becoming the first African-American presidential nominee of a major party.
Five things Obama's speech needs to accomplish
1 Recognize the historical import of his nomination, with a nod to the 45th anniversary of Martin Luther King's "I have a dream" speech. Obama is often reluctant to talk about his role as a pioneer but people will want to hear something from him about it tonight.
Bill Clinton gives Obama candidacy his blessing
DENVER - Bill Clinton bestowed a potent blessing on his would-be successor last night - telling a fervent convention crowd in blunt terms, "Barack Obama is ready to be president of the United States."
ACROSS PARTY LINES: D'Amato, Biden are friends first
Alfonse D'Amato is one of John McCain's top surrogates in New York, but last night the former New York GOP senator was rooting for Joe Biden to give a rousing speech.
Obama faces a night full of history - and challenge
DENVER - So many Americans thought this moment would never come.
Clinton urges party unity, McCain's defeat
DENVER - Vowing "no way, no how, no McCain," Hillary Rodham Clinton urged divided Democrats last night to come together to elect her primary opponent, Illinois Sen. Barack Obama.
Political conventions are just as fun on TV
I attended my first Democratic Convention in 1980 in New York City, and I went to every single other one for the next 24 years. Thanks to Newsday, I even attended two Republican conventions. And then, as I was about to depart for my 10th convention this weekend, something inside me said, "Don't go!"
THE REACTION: Pride, support and misty eyes
DENVER - Hillary Rodham Clinton's long-awaited and much-debated first appearance at the Democratic convention won a boisterous cheer from the crowd - and that was just the video.
Clinton supporters protest to honor her failed bid
DENVER - Shouting "Honest Roll Call!" and "Yes We Can!" several hundred of Hillary Rodham Clinton's most loyal supporters took to the streets of Denver yesterday to march in honor of her failed presidential bid.
Punchlines
David Letterman, "Late Show with David Letterman": "The theme of the Democratic convention is 'unity.' Unfortunately, they can't agree on how that works."
Clinton urges party unity, McCain's defeat
Vowing "no way, no how, no McCain," Hillary Rodham Clinton urged divided Democrats last night to come together to elect her primary opponent, Illinois Sen. Barack Obama.
EAST FARMINGDALE: Airport to get safety funding
Republic Airport will receive an additional $3.95 million for ongoing safety improvements, New York Sens. Hillary Rodham Clinton and Charles Schumer announced yesterday.
DNC NOTES
Former Virginia Gov. Mark Warner, keynoting the Democratic National Convention, said last night that American voters "have one shot to get it right" by electing Barack Obama president to end Republican leadership that is stuck in the past. Warner rebuked President George W. Bush and GOP nominee-to-be John McCain, but his address was hardly a summons to political arms against them. He mentioned McCain's name only twice, and the entrepreneur said he'd learned in the cell phone business that made him millions that a strategy of tearing down the competition doesn't suffice. "I know we're at the Democratic convention, but if an idea works, it really doesn't matter if it has an R or a D next to it," Warner said. "Because this election isn't about liberal versus conservative. It's not about left versus right. It's about the future versus the past." And "in George Bush and John McCain's America, far too many" people don't know whether that future will hold what they need, said Warner, who argued that Obama will change that. - The Associated Press
DNC 2008: TODAY'S HIGHLIGHTS
Obama's vice presidential pick, Sen. Joe Biden of Delaware, is the main speaker, but he'll have to share the spotlight with former President Bill Clinton. Pundits and commentators are watching to see if Clinton puts aside his issues with the Illinois senator and becomes an Obama loyalist.
DNC 2008: TODAY'S HIGHLIGHT
For supporters of Hillary Rodham Clinton, the Democratic convention was to be her grand party. Tonight, Clinton faces the monumental task of delivering a speech that Obama hopes will persuade her supporters to back her formal rival.
What Hillary must accomplish in Tuesday's speech
DENVER - No speech this week - not even Barack Obama's - will be parsed and pulled apart, combed for sincerity or hesitation, more than Hillary Rodham Clinton's convention address tonight.
DNC NOTES
The FBI is looking into reports in Denver media outlets that a man under investigation for drug and weapons violations may have made threats against Barack Obama, officials said yesterday. "It's premature to say that it was a valid threat or that these folks have the ability to carry it out," said a U.S. government official familiar with the investigation. FBI spokeswoman Kathy Wright confirmed the FBI was investigating the reports but declined to elaborate.
Plan to limit roll call for president
DENVER - Hillary Rodham Clinton and Barack Obama have worked out a convention-city deal to limit the divisive roll call for president, a step toward an uneasy alliance of former rivals and their still-bitter supporters.
DNC NOTES
Democrats adopted a platform yesterday that commits to Barack Obama's policy ideas, but also credits his primary rival Hillary Rodham Clinton with putting "18 million cracks in the highest glass ceiling." The phrasing refers to the 18 million votes Clinton got in the primary. The platform reasserts Obama's promise of health care for all, energy rebates to struggling families, pension subsidies, a crackdown on predatory lenders, higher taxes for families earning over $250,000, tax breaks for others, billions for economic stimulus and "direct high-level diplomacy, without preconditions," in the case of Iran.
THE BEST OF SPIN CYCLE
1:24 p.m. - At her Monday news conference at the DNC, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi took a few shots at the journalists fixated on any beef between Barack Obama and Hillary Rodham Clinton. When questioned about the reported tensions between the two camps, Pelosi told reporters:
Pelosi acknowledges that Democrats aren't united
DENVER - House Speaker Nancy Pelosi acknowledged yesterday that Democrats are not yet united following the bitter primary fight that divided supporters of likely Democratic nominee Barack Obama and rival Hillary Rodham Clinton.
Frustration over Clinton voters' resistance to Obama
DENVER - As she greeted party colleagues and delegates from around the state and country yesterday, Hillary Rodham Clinton encountered rising anxiety and frustration here over the stubborn resistance of many of her primary-season voters to transfer their allegiance to Obama.
Obama still dealing with Clinton factor
KANSAS CITY, Mo. - Even as he made his way West to accept his party's nomination in Denver Thursday night, Barack Obama could not shake the Clintons.
Janison: Obama, McCain face same voter challenges
Fellow Sens. Barack Obama and John McCain may not be talking shop together these days, but they face a similar problem - partially involving the Clintons - as their presidential nominations approach.
Hillary Clinton dismisses McCain's 'Passed Over' ads
DENVER - Hillary Rodham Clinton plans to formally release her convention delegates to Barack Obama on Wednesday - hoping to ensure a show of party unity this week with concrete proof of her support for Obama's ticket.
TODAY'S PICKS
WORLD'S FUNNIEST COMMERCIALS 2008 (9 p.m., TBS) - Kevin Nealon and Susan Yeagley host this annual look at the wackiest spots from around the globe.
Hillary Clinton's impact on, future in Democratic party is great
You either love her or you hate her. That is the sentiment that wise men and women of political punditry wanted voters to believe about Sen. Hillary Clinton going in to the 2008 presidential cycle.
Clinton backers wish she was picked but praise Biden
For many Hillary Rodham Clinton supporters, hopes of a "Dream Ticket" - marrying Barack Obama's appeal to the young and educated with the New York senator's more working-class constituency - were dashed yesterday.
Hillary's speech at convention carries high stakes
The woman who almost won the Democratic presidential nomination will fly to Fresno, Calif., today, to urge farm workers to vote for the man who beat her. Then she'll fly to her party's convention in Denver, where she headlines an Emily's List unity luncheon Tuesday with her opponent's wife and House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, who have been anything but allies.
New Obama running mate Biden criticizes McCain
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. - At a campaign rally here yesterday, Barack Obama's just-named running mate, Sen. Joe Biden, wasted no time filling his new role on the Democratic ticket - he tore into Republican John McCain, put himself at America's kitchen table and became a passionate cheerleader in chief for Barack Obama.
Obama hopes Biden can fill in the blanks
WASHINGTON - Barack Obama is hoping Joe Biden can be all the things he's not in this campaign.
Janison: Biden? To copy a phrase, Let's get ready to rumble
Oh, great, you might think. Barack Obama, the man who stood up for the power of words, went with a plagiarist.
No surprise in Obama's text message
In a polemic against government secrecy, the late Sen. Daniel P. Moynihan once said they can keep only one or two secrets at once in Washington - and then only for a short period of time. Maybe that was the lesson to be drawn for Sen. Barack Obama's political campaign from his just-ended drumroll over the vice presidency.
THE DELEGATES
Who are they? There are three basic types of delegates to the Democratic convention: pledged delegates, at-large delegates and superdelegates. The pledged delegates were elected during the primary election and the at-large delegates were selected this summer by Obama campaign officials. The pledged and at-large delegates consist primarily of low-level party activists and campaign volunteers. The superdelegates are elected officials - members of Congress, governors, national committee members - and senior officials within the state and national party.
ON THE TRAIL
The suspicious white powder found in a letter sent to a Colorado campaign office for John McCain is not anthrax or another lethal substance, officials determined Friday. The Colorado National Guard Civil Support Team completed its testing of the powder around 2 a.m. Friday, Guard spokesman Rick Breitenfeldt said. Officials do not know what the powder is, but they determined it was not lethal. Officials said the threatening letter was sent by an inmate at the Arapahoe Detention Center. Arapahoe County Sheriff's officials identified the suspected inmate as Marc Harold Ramsey, 39, incarcerated since September 2007 on investigation of felony menacing, harassment and second-degree assault on a police officer. Ramsey may face federal charges for Thursday's incident, which sent at least 19 people to hospitals for testing.
Clinton wasn't vetted for VP, her aides say
WASHINGTON - With Barack Obama set to break his silence on a running mate Saturday morning, Hillary Rodham Clinton's long-shot hopes dimmed further Friday - as Clinton aides signaled Obama never seriously vetted her for the job.
Obama says he has made his pick for running mate
CHICAGO - Barack Obama says he's decided on a running mate, but he won't say who.
Paterson, Schumer added to Dem's convention lineup
ALBANY - It took a while, but a few New Yorkers are now being added to the speakers' lineup at next week's Democratic convention - first Gov. David A. Paterson, and last night Sen. Charles Schumer.
They're baaaack
Remember Harry and Louise? They were that fictional couple last seen in mid-1990s television ads disparaging Bill and Hillary Clinton's health care reform plan. Their overblown fear of losing choice in doctors and treatment to government bureaucrats was a key element in the successful campaign by insurers and others to derail the sweeping proposal.
Obama set to announce VP; Clinton a long shot
WASHINGTON - Barack Obama is poised to announce his running mate any day now, and all signs say it won't be Hillary Rodham Clinton - even though Clinton told supporters on Long Island just last week that she'd take the job if offered, two Democratic sources said.
Mom fears worst as son is stranded in war-torn Georgia
RATHER than letting her son stay home in Middle Island and play computer games, Marina Tsartsidze sent him to Tbilisi, Georgia, to enjoy the summer with his grandparents.
ON THE TRAIL
John McCain's presidential campaign had no comment yesterday about a controversial book that attacks Barack Obama and many say is riddled with errors. Jerome Corsi's book, "The Obama Nation," depicts the Democratic candidate as a dangerous, radical figure filled with "black rage." The Obama campaign and its allies have criticized the book, citing dozens of assertions that they say are inaccurate. Corsi has espoused a number of unorthodox views, including claims that the federal government was untruthful about what caused New York's Twin Towers to collapse after being struck by hijacked jets on Sept. 11, 2001. Some independent groups, including Catholics United, also have called on McCain to condemn Corsi's book. McCain campaign spokeswoman Brooke Buchanan said the campaign had no comment.
Airlines to cut baggage fees for military travel
WASHINGTON - Many of the nation's largest airlines have begun giving military personnel on official travel a pass on expensive baggage fees when they carry heavy duffel bags stuffed with combat gear.
Deal gives Clinton roll call vote at convention
WASHINGTON - Hillary Rodham Clinton's die-hard supporters yesterday got their wish - her name will be placed in nomination at the party convention this month, a move Barack Obama hopes will win over her 18 million voters.
Despite reports, Clinton will not be keynote speaker
WASHINGTON - Hillary Rodham Clinton will not be the keynote speaker at the Democratic National Convention later this month after all.
Intruder kills Democratic superdelegate in Arkansas
LITTLE ROCK, Ark. - A man barged into the Arkansas Democratic headquarters yesterday and fatally shot the state party chairman before speeding off in his pickup. Police shot and killed the suspect after a 30-mile chase.
Homeland Security might close Plum Island center
The Department of Homeland Security has ruled out keeping the Plum Island Animal Disease Center open to continue its current research if a proposed National Bio and Agro-Defense Facility is built in another state.
Does shock jock hate speech lead to violence?
On July 27 a man walked into the Tennessee Valley Unitarian Universalist Church in Knoxville and opened fire, killing two people and seriously wounding seven others.
Memos show Clinton turmoil
WASHINGTON - In a fresh postmortem on Hillary Rodham Clinton's presidential bid, newly published staff memos and e-mails reveal a campaign hobbled by internal rivalries, faulty planning, bloated spending - and perhaps most important, Clinton's own failure to make the hard decisions.
DID HE CHEAT HILL?
Clinton aide says
Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton would be the Democratic presidential nominee if John Edwards had been caught in his lie about an extramarital affair and forced out of the race last year, insists a top Clinton campaign aide.
ON THE TRAIL
John McCain won't eclipse the enormous fundraising advantage his Democratic rival has built in New Jersey, but he is hoping to narrow the gap a little when he and his wife visit the Garden State today. McCain will attend a private fundraiser in Bergen County, while his wife seeks votes in Monmouth County. The presumptive GOP presidential nominee plans to make an evening campaign swing through Teaneck, while wife Cindy attends a money-raising luncheon and makes campaign stops in Republican-friendly Monmouth. Today marks McCain's sixth visit to New Jersey since he declared his candidacy for the Republican nomination.
Hillaryto headline her own night at convention
HONOLULU - Hillary Rodham Clinton will headline her own night at the Democratic National Convention, Barack Obama's campaign announced yesterday in a nod to her strong second-place showing in the party's presidential primary.
Shame-filled Edwards admits affair with video producer
WASHINGTON - Former presidential candidate John Edwards, who won nationwide praise and sympathy as he campaigned side-by-side with his cancer-stricken wife, Elizabeth, admitted in shame Friday he'd had an extramarital affair with a woman who produced videos for his campaign.
Clinton tells rally she wants Obama to win White House
LAS VEGAS - Hillary Rodham Clinton told an exuberant crowd Friday she wants Barack Obama to win the White House, even though he dashed her own presidential dreams - and she wants her supporters to vote that way, too.
Clinton may seek roll-call vote at Dems' convention
WASHINGTON - Egged on by die-hard supporters, Hillary Rodham Clinton is giving every indication that she will not go quietly or meekly into the Democratic National Convention in Denver later this month.
Feds add $210 million for LIRR East Side project
Senators Charles Schumer and Hillary Rodham Clinton yesterday announced $210 million in federal funding for East Side Access, the $7.2-billion project to link the Long Island Rail Road to Grand Central Terminal by 2015.
Us Weekly's fashion police pan Nassau garb on Ashanti
It wasn't exactly what the Nassau County Executive wanted from the kickoff of his Nassau tourism promotion late last month, but, hey, they say any advertisement is a good advertisement.
Further relief as crude oil prices fall again
Crude oil and gasoline futures fell again yesterday, signaling further relief for motorists and homeowners who heat with oil in coming months.
Obama taunts McCain over tire inflation take
ELKHART, Ind. - Democratic presidential candidate Barack Obama yesterday taunted Republican John McCain for agreeing on the importance of keeping tires inflated as an energy-conservation measure after having joined the GOP in mocking the idea.
Clinton backers to march during Democratic convention
WASHINGTON - Ardent Hillary Rodham Clinton backers plan to parade through Denver during the Democratic National Convention later this month in a last-ditch effort to win her the presidential nomination.
Poll: Clinton paved way for first woman president
WASHINGTON - Hillary Rodham Clinton paved the way for the first woman president, a milestone that could be reached within the next eight years, according to a nationwide poll of women released yesterday.
Bill Clinton denies racist remarks in campaign
WASHINGTON - Former President Bill Clinton acknowledges there are some things "I wish I hadn't said" during the Democratic presidential nomination fight, but denies he made racist statements about Barack Obama.