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Peace, Love, and Rock-n-Roll from a proud Lefty, Liberal, Socialist Hippie

Friday, April 28, 2006

Where's the Outrage?

Cross-posted at Washblog

Specter threatens to cut off NSA funding

Not enough outrage over domestic spying, GOP senator says


Attention Democrats! The Republican Chair of the Senate Judiciary Committee doesn't believe there is enough outrage over Bush's illegal wiretapping operation. ARE YOU LISTENING? (Yes Russ, I know you are listening). " Specter said he had informed President Bush about his intention and that he has attracted several potential co-sponsors of his amendment to a spending bill." Several POTENTIAL co-sponsors???? Democrats who give a damn about the civil liberties of this country should be all over this like white on rice!!! Oh wait, maybe this is it, ""We have a Congress which candidly is more concerned about re-election and fund raising and who controls the House and the Senate than in asserting constitutional prerogatives," Specter said. "That's not the way it ought to be.""

Can I get an Amen brothers and sisters?


Peace,

Chad (The Left) Shue

It's about our values

I have been writing to voice my support of Mark Wilson and debating the “Cantwellians” for a few months now and it has occurred to me that, with very few exceptions, I have spent most of my time discussing Mark’s shift from the Libertarian and Green parties to the Democratic Party, going back and forth with folks over the wisdom of challenging a “vulnerable” incumbent (well, she is vulnerable or not vulnerable depending on what point they are trying to make), I have even had to defend Mark’s lack of money (this from folks who, on the one hand, decry the effect of money on the process and yet, on the other hand, use it as a measuring stick to support their millionaire candidate).

So here’s the thing, no one is challenging his issues! More to the point, no one is disputing the facts that Maria Cantwell has voted to give George Bush sole authority for invading Iraq (and says she has no regrets about that vote to this day). She voted twice for the USA Patriot Act (The only Washington Democrat to do so). She voted for both NAFTA and CAFTA, voted for the confirmation of “Mushroom Cloud” Condi Rice, and voted to shift class action lawsuits to Federal Court and move the process out of the reach of ordinary Americans. Now we hear that she has co-sponsored S-333 with Rick Santorum, again giving George Bush sole authority to determine Iran’s compliance with our demands that they cease further nuclear activities (Would YOU trust George Bush with ANYTHING?). Instead, what we hear from the Cantwellians is, “We can’t risk the seat. When we have a majority in the House and Senate, then we afford to challenge incumbents over the issues.” Huh???

Of the claims I have heard about Mark Wilson that were not about his “viability” or “electability”, one person didn’t approve of his desire to establish a Peace Academy and someone else had a problem with his support for decriminalization of marijuana. So here is my challenge: if you were offered a choice between someone with the undisputed voting record listed above and someone who would stand in direct opposition to those votes – and you were voting for a choice to challenge for an OPEN SEAT, which candidate would you choose? If you believe that six more years of a foreign policy based on aggression and social voting that leans toward the corporation-as-person model is acceptable or even preferable, I would like to hear that argument. If, on the other hand, you believe it’s time for a return to Democratic values then I would direct you to http://votemark.org.

Do not be fooled. You do have a choice in September. Vote your values not your fears. Vote Mark Wilson for US Senate - Democrat

Peace,

Chad (The Left) Shue

IWR News

Iraq Body Count: 4/28/06
Americans Killed: 2396
Americans Wounded: 17,648
Iraqi Dead: Est.: 38,661
http://icasualties.org/oif/
.......................................................

Latest Confirmed Casualties:

*Lance Cpl. Aaron W. Simons, 20, of Modesto, Calif., died April 24 in Al Anbar province, Iraq.

*Sgt. Robert W. Ehney, 26, of Lexington, Ky. died of injuries sustained in Taji, Iraq, on April 23.

*Cpl. Jason B. Daniel, 21, of Fort Worth, Texas died of injuries sustained in Taji, Iraq, on April 23.

*Cpl. Shawn T. Lasswell Jr., 21, of Reno, Nev. died of injuries sustained in Taji, Iraq, on April 23.

*Staff Sgt. Metodio A. Bandonill, 29, of Honolulu, Hawaii, died in Baghdad, Iraq on April 24.

*Pfc. Raymond L. Henry, 21, of Anaheim, Calif, died in Mosul, Iraq on April 25.


Peace,

Chad (The Left) Shue

Thursday, April 27, 2006

More Mushroom Cloud Condi Watch

Rice:
U.N. Credibility at Stake on Iran

By PAUL AMES
SOFIA, Bulgaria Apr 27, 2006 (AP)—

Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice said Thursday the credibility of the U.N. Security Council was as stake as it decides how to deal with Iran's likely rejection of a deadline to bring its nuclear program in line with international demands.......

Copyright 2006 The Associated Press.



cred·i·bil·i·ty-n

1. The quality, capability, or power to elicit belief: “America's credibility must not be squandered, especially by its leaders” (Henry A. Kissinger).

2. A capacity for belief: a story that strained our credibility.

The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fourth Edition
Copyright © 2000 by Houghton Mifflin Company.



Top Bush officials push case against Saddam
WASHINGTON (CNN)
September 8, 2002 Posted: 8:46 PM EDT (0046 GMT)

"The tubes, Rice said, "are only really suited for nuclear weapons programs, centrifuge programs." "

"National security adviser Condoleezza Rice said President Bush hasn't made a decision yet about whether to attack Iraq."


Peace,

Chad (The Left) Shue

P.S. To Maria:
You REALLY can't trust these people. Just thought you should know.

Wednesday, April 26, 2006

IWR News

Iraq Body Count: 4/26/06
Americans Killed: 2390
Americans Wounded: 17,648
Iraqi Dead: Est.: 38,660
http://icasualties.org/oif/
.......................................................


Latest Confirmed Casualties:

*Staff Sgt. Jason C. Ramseyer, 28, of Lenoir, N.C., died April 20 in Al Anbar province, Iraq.

*Capt. Clayton L. Adamkavicius, 43, of Fairdale, Ky., died of injuries sustained in Abu Ghurayb, Afghanistan, on April 21.

*Pvt. Travis C. Zimmerman, 19, of New Berlinville, Pa., died in Baghdad, Iraq on April 22.

*Cpl. Eric R. Lueken, 23, of Dubois, Ind., died April 22 in Al Anbar province, Iraq.

*Sgt. Kyle A. Colnot, 23, of Arcadia, Calif. died of injuries sustained in Baghad, Iraq on April 22.

*Pfc. Jacob H. Allcott, 21, of Caldwell, Idaho died of injuries sustained in Baghad, Iraq on April 22.

*Pvt. Michael E. Bouthot, 19, of Fall River, Mass. died of injuries sustained in Baghad, Iraq on April 22.

*Spc. Eric D. King, 29, of Vancouver, Wash.(46) died of injuries sustained in Baghad, Iraq on April 22.

*******************************************************************************

Washington State Memorial:

Justin W. Hebert, Specialist 01-Aug-2003 - Arlington

Curt E. Jordan Jr., Sergeant 28-Dec-2003 - Green Acres

Benjamin J. Colgan, 1st Lieutenant 02-Nov-2003 - Kent

James A. Shull, Captain 17-Nov-2003 - Kirkland

Kerry D. Scott, Private 1st Class 06-Oct-2003 - Mount Vernon

Nathan W. Nakis, Specialist 15-Dec-2003 - Sedro-Woolley

Robert T. Benson, Specialist 04-Nov-2003 - Spokane

Duane E. Longstreth, Private 1st Class 07-Aug-2003 - Tacoma

Cedric E. Bruns, Lance Corporal 09-May-2003 - Vancouver

Jonathan J. Santos, Specialist 15-Oct-2004 - Bellingham

Christopher Bunda, Staff Sergeant 25-Jan-2004 - Bremerton

Michael Lee Burbank, Staff Sergeant 11-Oct-2004 - Bremerton

David G. Ries, Staff Sergeant 08-Nov-2004 - Clark

Jacob R. Herring, Specialist 28-Apr-2004 - Kirkland

Nathan R. Wood, Lance Corporal 09-Nov-2004 - Kirkland

Andrew M. Ward, Private 1st Class 05-Dec-2004 - Kirkland

Cody S. Calavan, Private 1st Class 29-May-2004 - Lake Stevens

Steven A. Rintamaki, Corporal 16-Sep-2004 - Lynnwood

Caleb J. Powers, Lance Corporal 17-Aug-2004 - Manfield

Jeffrey R. Shaver, Specialist 12-May-2004 - Maple Valley

Marvin Best, Staff Sergeant 20-Jun-2004 - Prosser

Damien T. Ficek, Sergeant 30-Dec-2004 - Pullman

Jeremiah W. Schmunk, Specialist 08-Jul-2004 - Richland/Kennewick

Michael R. Adams, 1st Lieutenant 16-Mar-2004 - Seattle

Jason Cook, Sergeant 21-Aug-2004 - Okanogan

Gregory A. Ratzlaff, Captain 03-Aug-2004 - Olympia

Jacob H. Demand, Sergeant 14-Sep-2004 - Palouse

Kane M. Lance Funke, Corporal 13-Aug-2004 - Vancouver

Yadir G. Reynoso, Sergeant 05-Aug-2004 - Wapato

Blain M. Ebert, Specialist 22-Nov-2004 - Washtucna

Dustin L. Sides, Lance Corporal 31-May-2004 - Yakima

Regina R. Clark, Petty Officer 1st Class 23-Jun-2005 - Centralia

Joseph P. Bier, Corporal 07-Dec-2005 - Centralia

Shane C. Swanberg, Lance Corporal 15-Sep-2005 - Kirkland

Christopher W. Dickison, Specialist 05-Jul-2005 - Seattle

Daniel Chavez, Lance Corporal 09-Jun-2005 - Seattle

Steven M. Langmack, Sergeant 1st Class 31-May-2005 – Seattle

Jeffrey B. Starr, Corporal 30-May-2005 - Snohomish

Curtis L. Wooten III, Private 1st Class 04-Jan-2005 - Spanaway

Casey Crate, Staff Sergeant 30-May-2005 - Spanaway

Lawrence E. Morrison, Sergeant 1st Class 19-Sep-2005 - Yakima

Jaime L. Campbell, 1st Lieutenant 07-Jan-2006 - Ephrata

Christopher J. Vanderhorn, Staff Sergeant 01-Jan-2006 - Pierce

Abraham G. Twitchell, Staff Sergeant 02-Apr-2006 - Yelm

Charles E. Matheny IV, Sergeant 18-Feb-2006 - Stanwood

Eric D. King, Specialist 22-Apr-2006 - Vancouver


Peace,

Chad (The Left) Shue

Monday, April 24, 2006

IWR News

Iraq Body Count: 4/24/06
Americans Killed: 2389
Americans Wounded: 17,469
Iraqi Dead: Est.: 38,660
http://icasualties.org/oif/
......................................................

Latest Confirmed Casualties:

*Capt. Ian P. Weikel, 31, of Colorado, died in Balad, Iraq on April 18.

*Pfc. Robert J. Settle, 25, of Owensboro, Ky., died in Taji, Iraq, on April 19.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Washington State Memorial:

Justin W. Hebert, Specialist 01-Aug-2003 - Arlington

Jonathan J. Santos, Specialist 15-Oct-2004 - Bellingham

Christopher Bunda, Staff Sergeant 25-Jan-2004 - Bremerton

Michael Lee Burbank, Staff Sergeant 11-Oct-2004 - Bremerton

Regina R. Clark, Petty Officer 1st Class 23-Jun-2005 - Centralia

Joseph P. Bier, Corporal 07-Dec-2005 - Centralia

David G. Ries, Staff Sergeant 08-Nov-2004 - Clark

Jaime L. Campbell, 1st Lieutenant 07-Jan-2006 - Ephrata

Curt E. Jordan Jr., Sergeant 28-Dec-2003 - Green Acres

Benjamin J. Colgan, 1st Lieutenant 02-Nov-2003 - Kent

Jacob R. Herring, Specialist 28-Apr-2004 - Kirkland

James A. Shull, Captain 17-Nov-2003 - Kirkland

Nathan R. Wood, Lance Corporal 09-Nov-2004 - Kirkland

Andrew M. Ward, Private 1st Class 05-Dec-2004 - Kirkland

Shane C. Swanberg, Lance Corporal 15-Sep-2005 - Kirkland

Cody S. Calavan, Private 1st Class 29-May-2004 - Lake Stevens

Steven A. Rintamaki, Corporal 16-Sep-2004 - Lynnwood

Caleb J. Powers, Lance Corporal 17-Aug-2004 - Manfield

Jeffrey R. Shaver, Specialist 12-May-2004 - Maple Valley

Kerry D. Scott, Private 1st Class 06-Oct-2003 - Mount Vernon

Jason Cook, Sergeant 21-Aug-2004 - Okanogan

Gregory A. Ratzlaff, Captain 03-Aug-2004 - Olympia

Jacob H. Demand, Sergeant 14-Sep-2004 - Palouse

Christopher J. Vanderhorn, Staff Sergeant 01-Jan-2006 - Pierce

Marvin Best, Staff Sergeant 20-Jun-2004 - Prosser

Damien T. Ficek, Sergeant 30-Dec-2004 - Pullman

Jeremiah W. Schmunk, Specialist 08-Jul-2004 - Richland/Kennewick

Michael R. Adams, 1st Lieutenant 16-Mar-2004 - Seattle

Christopher W. Dickison, Specialist 05-Jul-2005 - Seattle

Daniel Chavez, Lance Corporal 09-Jun-2005 - Seattle

Steven M. Langmack, Sergeant 1st Class 31-May-2005 - Seattle

Nathan W. Nakis, Specialist 15-Dec-2003 - Sedro-Woolley

Jeffrey B. Starr, Corporal 30-May-2005 - Snohomish

Curtis L. Wooten III, Private 1st Class 04-Jan-2005 - Spanaway

Casey Crate, Staff Sergeant 30-May-2005 - Spanaway

Robert T. Benson, Specialist 04-Nov-2003 - Spokane

Charles E. Matheny IV, Sergeant 18-Feb-2006 - Stanwood

Duane E. Longstreth, Private 1st Class 07-Aug-2003 - Tacoma

Cedric E. Bruns, Lance Corporal 09-May-2003 - Vancouver

Kane M. Lance Funke, Corporal 13-Aug-2004 - Vancouver

Yadir G. Reynoso, Sergeant 05-Aug-2004 - Wapato

Blain M. Ebert, Specialist 22-Nov-2004 - Washtucna

Dustin L. Sides, Lance Corporal 31-May-2004 - Yakima

Lawrence E. Morrison, Sergeant 1st Class 19-Sep-2005 - Yakima

Abraham G. Twitchell, Staff Sergeant 02-Apr-2006 - Yelm



Peace,

Chad (The Left) Shue

Sunday, April 23, 2006

The Politics of Fear

If you are like me, you have become tired of the politics of fear being employed by the other side. You know, the speeches where they say, "Vote for our candidate or something evil will surely happen to all of us." - Playing sound-bytes from the "evil doers" and saying that they will surely prevail if we waiver in any way in our support of the anointed one.

At my LD caucus on Saturday, I was once again treated to this tactic, sitting through sound-bytes of Dr. Evil (aka Dick Cheney) saying how it would give him great pleasure to swear in Slade McGavick as the new senator from Washington State. This was followed by an acknowledgment that many Democrats have expressed disappointment in many of the votes Senator Cantwell has cast. This acknowledgment was followed by an admonition that the McGavick scenario could play out if we don't vote for Maria Cantwell anyway. Hmmmm, "the lesser of two evils"? In fact, friends, there is a campaign of hope. There is a candidate of hope and that candidate is Mark Wilson. The Cantwell camp and indeed our own State Party Chair do not want you to know this.

ATTENTION DEMOCRATS!!!!


ON SEMPTEMBER 19, 2006, THERE WILL BE A PRIMARY ELECTION TO DECIDE WHICH DEMOCRAT WILL REPRESENT US IN THE NOVEMBER GENERAL ELECTION!!!!



I find it amusing and frustrating at the same time that, while glossing over Cantwell's role in the invasion and occupation of Iraq and her two votes to suspend our civil liberties via the USA Patriot Act and her continuing reliance on the Bush "neo-con" vision of foreign policy (See her co-sponsorhip of S-333 with Rick Santorum), her supporters dwell on her support for environmental issues and her valiant fight against "big oil" and Enron in particular. The thing is, with the exception of Mary Landreau in Louisiana and the two Hawaiian senators, there is not a Democrat that takes an opposing position on these issues. In fact, many "real Republicans" join her in these fights. In other words, these issues pose no risk to Senator Cantwell.

This is where the politics of fear comes into play. Knowing that Mark Wilson would also be a strong voice on these important issues, while continuing his strong opposition to the fiasco which is the neo-con (DLC?) foreign policy mess we find ourselves in, they use the bait and switch tactic of denying our choice in the primary and going straight to the November General election. On September 19th, Slade McGavick will not appear on your Democratic ballot! Those that do acknowledge the primary race will tell you that Mark Wilson cannot defeat McGavick in November but...and this is the good part...they tell you it is because Mark is "too far left in a divided state". Yes, it is the "we have to appeal to the middle" tactic that has worked so well for us in the past. Make no mistake, in a race that was decided by less that 2500 votes in 2000, the Cantwell campaign had originally determined that they could cede the Progressive (Liberal) element of the party and play for the DLC middle. The fly in the ointment? The 2004 governor's race has proved that the state is much more divided than they originally thought and there is not that much DLC middle that won't be giving their sympathy votes to Slade Jr. (Just check out Maria's falling polls numbers in each of the past three months since the right decided on their candidate)


Plan B - stop the bleeding from the left.


Mark Wilson has a better plan! Stop the concessions to the right! However, in order for this plan to work Progressives must raise their voices and their votes. We are looking at an opportunity for Democratic majorities in Congress BUT, who do you want to be the deciding vote on national security? Cantwell seems to believe that "shoot first, ask questions later" is a good national defense policy. Mark Wilson believes that a strong homeland defense demands good international alliances and an ethical foreign policy based upon the recognition of universal human rights. Who do you want to represent you when it comes time to vote on issues that affect worker's rights? Cantwell supports so-called Free (for all) Trade ( NAFTA, CAFTA, WTO) while Mark Wilson, former Teamster, believes in Fair Trade where worker's rights and environmental protections are negotiated before any trade agreement can be signed. With a Democratic majority, there will be a move to repeal the USA Patriot Act. Who would you want to count on the restore our civil liberties? Senator Cantwell has twice voted for this act (the only Washington Democrat to do so). Mark Wilson has been speaking out about this since it's initial passage.


The next step in the Cantwell-Pelz plan will be in securing the state party's sole endorsement for Maria Cantwell at the State Convention in June. By doing this, they hope to further shut Mark out of the primary race by keeping his literature out of view at party functions and events. Progressives must stand up to this tactic. Identify and reach out to your LD and County delegates to the State Convention and tell them that you demand our party stand up for the open and transparent primary process. Tell them they must respect Mark's right to participate (and your right to be choose) and they should vote for no endorsement and allow the primary to be "the decider".


Who you vote for should not be based on your fears but, rather, on your hopes. If you would like to help Mark get his message across to more Washington voters, you can contribute on my Act Blue with The Left Shue page.

Peace,
Chad (The Left) Shue

Friday, April 21, 2006

In Bush She Trusts

Some time ago, during one of my many rants about Maria Cantwell’s vote to authorize military action in Iraq, someone suggested to me that the time to ask her about how she would vote for that kind of thing should have been in 2000 before she was elected to the Senate. Well, not realizing that Senator Cantwell was clairvoyant, it never entered my mind that she could tell me about an invasion that would be some three years away. As for the Patriot Act, it also never entered my mind that any Democrat would be so quick to vote away our civil liberties. Having learned from my mistakes, I decided that, with all the noise the Bush Administration is making about Iran, I should ask Sen. Cantwell how she feels about the situation in that country and if she would support a pre-emptive strike there. As it turns out, someone has already begun that ball rolling for me. What follows is the response from Sen. Cantwell to a constituent’s question about the recent Seymour Hersch piece on the run up to pre-emptive action in Iran. (It is Hersch’s conclusion that the Bush Administration is already in the planning stages of a pre-emptive strike against Iran.)
*********************************************************************************

Dear Mr. Eachus,

Thank you for contacting me to express your concerns for the development of nuclear weapons in Iran. I appreciate hearing from you on this important issue.

As you may know, international nuclear inspectors continue to monitor whether Iran is developing nuclear weapons. Such a program would be in contravention to the nuclear non-proliferation agreement that Iran has signed. In November 2004, the countries of Britain, France, and Germany negotiated an agreement with Iran, in which Iran agreed to cancel its nuclear programs. Unfortunately, Iran has recently backed away from its commitments. The International Atomic Energy Agency has reported that Iran is accelerating its nuclear fuel enrichment activities and has failed to comply with international nuclear inspectors. Specifically, Iran began resuming uranium conversion in August 2005 and then announced its intentions to begin research on enriching uranium in February 2006.
On March 29, 2006, the United Nations Security Council issued a Presidential Statement on Iran’s nuclear programs requesting that Iran suspend its uranium enrichment programs within 30 days and cooperate with the International Atomic Energy Agency.
Although I continue to support efforts to engage the Iranian government in constructive cooperation and dialogue that will encourage Iran to become a peaceful and responsible member of the international community, we simply cannot allow any government to development weapons of mass destruction.
Given Iran’s unwillingness to suspend its nuclear programs, I co-sponsored legislation introduced by Senator Rick Santorum that would hold the current Iranian government accountable for its threatening behavior. If enacted, the Iran Freedom and Support Act (S. 333) would continue U.S. imposed sanctions, controls, and regulations relating to Iran’s weapons of mass destruction until the President certifies to Congress that Iran has permanently dismantled its weapons programs and committed to non-proliferation. The President would also be given the authority to aid foreign and domestic individuals or groups financially or politically that support democracy and advocate for non-proliferation in Iran. In addition, this legislation would amend the Iran and Libya Sanctions Act of 1996 to impose sanctions on any individual or group that provides Iran assistance in acquiring or developing weapons of mass destruction.
At this time, S. 333 is awaiting further review by the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations. Please be assured that I will continue to monitor this situation closely.

Sincerely,
Maria Cantwell United States Senator
***********************************************************************************

Considering that we are still living under the Bush Regime, and knowing what they did with the last resolution involving one of Bush’s so-called Axis of Evil countries, I am deeply concerned that Senator Cantwell would still be so trusting of them to do the “right thing.” I mean let’s consider what we know and some of the lessons learned through the invasion of Iraq.

To begin with, even though Bush, Cheney, Condi, and Rummy told us that Iraq was the greatest threat to the United States, we have learned that they posed no threat not only to us but to hardly anyone else. Now they tell us that Iran is the greatest threat to the United States and yet our own State Department says that IF they were attempting to create a nuclear weapon, they are at least 10 years away from accomplishing that.

The resolution to authorize the use of force in Iraq was based solely on George Bush’s judgment that Iraq had not disarmed and he had to act to protect America. Senator Cantwell was amongst the group that trusted that judgment. 23 Democratic Senators, including Patty Murray, did not trust that judgment. Guess who was right. The act - S.333 - that Senator Cantwell has co-sponsored with Rick Santorum (a model of moderate virtue) bases the ending of sanctions and controls on when “the President certifies to Congress that Iran has permanently dismantled its weapons programs and committed to non-proliferation.” This president has already proven he either has no clue when that happens or simply lies about it.

I also find it disingenuous that we (the world’s leader in the development and deployment of weapons of mass destruction) have a selective policy of who may and who may not engage in nuclear technology. The recent offer to share technology with India jumps immediately to mind. Then there is this strange relationship with another of Iran’s nuclear neighbors, Pakistan. We invaded Iraq because Bush said they had designs on making nuclear weapons and delivering them to Osama bin Laden. Neither thing was true. Pakistan –”our staunch ally in the war on terror”, on the other hand, already has nuclear weapons and, oh by the way, is the last known residence of Osama bin Laden. And then there is the matter of Iran’s other regional nuclear neighbor, Israel. Obviously, with no love lost between these two countries, whether you approve or not, Iran has an interest in at least projecting some ability to counter any perceived threat from the Israel. Come to think of it, I don’t believe we have ever required Israel to acknowledge the extent of their nuclear program.

I would like to think that Senator Cantwell might have learned something from her Iraq vote but, unfortunately, it appears that, for whatever reason, she seems to believe that saber rattling and pre-emptive punishments have permanently replaced diplomacy in the arsenal of the United States. While this philosophy fits in quite well with the Santorum-Bush-Rice crowd, it is far from what I believe our obligation is as the “last remaining super-power”.

So if there were any questions remaining about how Maria Cantwell views American foreign policy in light of her “no regrets” vote to authorize Bush to invade Iraq, I think her answer to the question of Iran sums it up for me. In Bush She Trusts.


Peace,

Chad (The Left) Shue

Tuesday, April 18, 2006

IWR News

Iraq Body Count: 4/18/06
Americans Killed: 2377
Americans Wounded: 17,269
Iraqi Dead: Est.: 38,641
http://icasualties.org/oif/
.......................................................

Latest Confirmed Casualties:

*Lance Cpl. Darin T. Settle, 23, of Henley, Mo., died April 14 accident in Al Anbar province, Iraq.

*Lance Cpl. Derrick J. Cothran, 21, of Avondale, La. died April 15 in Al Anbar province, Iraq.

*Cpl. Pablo V. Mayorga, 33, of Margate, Fla. died April 15 in Al Anbar province, Iraq.

*Lance Cpl. Justin D. Sims, 22, of Covington, Ky. died April 15 in Al Anbar province, Iraq.

*Pfc. Ryan G. Winslow, 19, of Jefferson, Ala. died April 15 in Al Anbar province, Iraq.

*Spc. Mark W. Melcher, 34, of Pittsburgh, Pa., died in Al Taqaddum, Iraq on April 15.

*Master Sgt. Clinton W. Cubert, 38, of Lawrenceburg, Ky., died on April 16, in the Lexington Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Lexington, Ky., of injuries sustained when an improvised explosive device detonated near his HMMWV during combat operations in Samarra, Iraq, on Sept. 11, 2005.


Peace,

Chad (The Left) Shue

Saturday, April 15, 2006

Drinking Liberally Comes to Snohomish County

On Thursday, April 13th, Drinking Liberally came to Monroe. 39th LD Chair, Steve Galea, tells me that he has taken on the pleasant task of hosting the monthly get-togethers where more “progressive-leaning folks” share a few brews (or their drink of choice) and conversation about the issues and news makers of the day. Drinking Liberally began in New York in 2003 and there are now over 138 chapters around the country. In Washington State, there are chapters in Bellingham, Olympia, Seattle, Tacoma, Burien, Spokane, Tri-Cities, and Walla Walla. The Monroe Chapter will be the first in Snohomish County.

While I have not attended any of the Seattle meetings, I do keep up with their activities on the various Blogs that write about the visitors and discussions that ensue at the events. The visitors to the Seattle events have included the likes of Jay Inslee, Dwight Pelz, Ron Sims, and Darcy Burner (candidate for Congress in the 8th CD) to name but a few. Steve is hoping to attract some of our local dignitaries such as Aaron Reardon and Mark Hintz to share some of their insight (or just be there to pick up the tab).

The Monroe Chapter of Drinking Liberally will meet on the second Thursday of each month at Eddie’s Trackside Bar & Grill , 214 N. Lewis Street, Monroe beginning at 7:00PM. Next month’s (May) will be on the 11th. I am making plans to attend and I encourage you all to do the same. For more information, contact Steve Galea at: asgalea@gte.net.

Peace,
Chad (The Left) Shue

IWR News

Iraq Body Count: 4/15/06
Americans Killed: 2371
Americans Wounded: 17,269
Iraqi Dead: Est.: 38,280
http://icasualties.org/oif/
.......................................................

Latest Confirmed Casualties:

*Lance Cpl. Philip J. Martini, 24, of Lansing, Ill., died April 8 in Al Anbar Province, Iraq.

*Spc. Scott M. Bandhold, 37, of North Merrick, N.Y. died of injuries sustained in Misiab, Iraq on April 12.

*Pfc. Roland E. Calderon-Ascencio, 21, of Miami, Fla. died of injuries sustained in Misiab, Iraq on April 12.

*Lance Cpl. Marcus S. Glimpse, 22, of Huntington Beach, Calif., died April 12.

*Cpl. Salem Bachar, 20, of Chula Vista, Calif. (died) in Al Anbar Province, Iraq on April 13.

*Lance Cpl. Stephen J. Perez, 22, of San Antonio, Texas (died) in Al Anbar Province, Iraq on April 13.


Peace,

Chad (The Left) Shue

Friday, April 14, 2006

2006 – A Year of Transition…

…The Saga Continues

There has been much blog chatter this week about comments made at a fundraiser for Senator Maria Cantwell . It seems that our junior senator has finally muttered those long sought after words, “Bring the Troops Home.” But wait! In what context were those words spoken? I mean, is there really a shift in the Iraq policy of “no regrets” Cantwell? Not exactly. Senator Cantwell was simply bringing out the D(L)C Democrats’ election year Iraq policy – “2006, a year of transition in Iraq.” In an increasingly publicized meeting with some local anti-war activists on the day before the fundraiser, Cantwell reminded those in attendance that she had voted for the Werner-Frist Resolution declaring 2006 a year of transition in Iraq. The resolution speaks of benchmarks and milestones that should be met in regard to the training of the Iraqi security forces and the establishment of a functional government in that country. The congress will somehow measure the progress in these areas to determine when and how many American troops can be deployed out of the country (presumably back home).

Where did this resolution come from? You may remember Rep. John Murtha (D-PA); a previously strong supporter of the invasion of Iraq, who broke ranks with the administration late last year, saying that it was time to set a time table for bringing the troops out of Iraq. His contention was that our military had done everything that they could and that their further involvement in that country was only adding fuel to the insurgency. He said that he thought we should have the bulk of our forces out of the country in six months. Under his breath, he made it known that this was also an assessment shared with many field officers and Pentagon brass. Murtha was immediately attacked by republicans and Democrats alike for advocating a “cut and run” policy. The republicans went so far as inventing a fraudulent resolution calling for immediate (as in NOW) withdrawal from Iraq and referred to it as the Murtha Resolution. The resolution was brought to the floor of the House and soundly defeated. At the same time, members of Congress were starting to read the poll numbers that now showed a solid majority of Americans calling for withdrawal from Iraq. This brings us to Werner-Frist. This resolution says all the right things to give the Cantwells of the world all the cover they would need in an election year. Establish “guidelines” without solid timelines for achievement and tie those to troop withdrawal. All tied up with a pretty bow.

So where are we in this “Year of Transition”? According to conflicting reports from the Generals on the ground or in the Pentagon, after three years of occupation, there are only between one and three battalions of Iraqis capable of defending themselves without our help at any given time. There is no reliable timeframe for increasing that number in the foreseeable future and, according to reports coming from the commanders in the field, Iraqi troops are able to come and go from duty at their own discretion with little or no punishment for desertion. Iraqi police and other security forces are being killed by the ongoing sectarian violence faster than they can be trained. As for the functional government, in the months since the parliamentary elections in December, the members of that body have decided on a place to hold their meetings and have met approximately a half dozen times. Major differences remain between the three primary factions – Shiite, Sunni, and Kurd - in forming an inclusive and representative government. The fact that the country is in the beginning stages of a civil war is either a result of this power vacuum or a prime cause of it, depending on who you ask.

How well is this policy of “benchmarks and mileposts” working out for our troops and the average Iraqi? From January through March of this year, American deaths reached one hundred, forty seven. April is already on pace to reach seventy more. In this same time period, Iraqi deaths are estimated to be in excess of two thousand. The confirmed number of American casualties as of this writing stands at two thousand, three hundred sixty nine while the estimated total of Iraqi civilian deaths is well in excess of forty thousand as a direct result of our invasion and occupation (this would include acts of the insurgency or resistance). Basic necessities such as electricity and clean water are still limited in availability and certainly nothing close to even pre-invasion standards (which were somewhat diminished by our previous bombings during the Gulf War and the economic sanctions imposed after that). As I mentioned before, a civil war is breaking out and with it various militias representing the various religious and secular factions are forming death squads and either running people from their homes and villages or killing entire families as examples to others. The increasing exodus from Iraq is creating refuge problems in neighboring countries.

Senator Cantwell, Rick Larsen, and the rest of the “Year of Transition” delegation need to rethink this non-position that is being paid for with the lives and limbs of our brave men and women in uniform and innocent Iraqis. They should realize that, without a timeline and enforceable benchmarks, you might as well just say “Stay the Course.”


Peace,

Chad (The Left) Shue

This Mike I Like...

Representative Mike Sells , 38th Legislative District, (Position 2) has had an excellent freshman term in Olympia. In the two legislative sessions he has participated in, Mike has sponsored and co-sponsored bills that are already bringing good things to the citizens of this district. Mike is Vice-Chair of the Committee on Higher Education and Workforce Education and also sits on the Housing and Transportation Committees. From his work on these committees, Mike has been able to help move legislation through that is bringing vital transportation projects to Everett and Marysville as well as many other parts of the state. He is an effective advocate for affordable housing and “green building” while stressing the “responsible” in responsible growth.

It is his role in education, however, that is helping to distinguish Mike Sells as a truly effective leader. Mike has had bills signed into law in both of the past two sessions that deal with diverse aspects of education. Along with his district partner, John McCoy (D-Tulalip), Mike has established a legislative priority for needed apprenticeship training. In the 2005 session they co-sponsored and had signed into law a tuition tax credit for apprenticeship training at the community college level. He is working in partnership with the cities of Everett and Marysville and the Snohomish County Council to help establish a four year college in the region. In the just ended session of the legislature, Sells and McCoy combined to sponsor legislation to fund 250 additional upper division or graduate level positions at Everett Community College. Governor Gregoire signed the legislation into law on March 23rd.

Even with the busy schedule he and all of our legislators deal with when they are in session, Mike is always quick with responses to constituent questions and concerns. He is willing to listen to a variety of view points and doesn't back away from making decisions. The one common theme I have found in the conversations I have had with him is ‘value from the vote’. Mike’s primary concern on every issue is, “Will this vote bring value to the folks in the 38th LD and the State of Washington?” I believe he has represented my values well in Olympia and I look forward to working for his re-election this year.


Peace,

Chad (The Left) Shue

IWR News

Iraq Body Count: 4/14/06
Americans Killed: 2369
Americans Wounded: 17,269
Iraqi Dead: Est.: 38,280
http://icasualties.org/oif/
.......................................................

Latest Confirmed Casualties:


*Lance Cpl. Eric A. Palmisano, 27, of Florence, Wis., died April 2 near Al Asad, Iraq.

*Spc. Shawn R. Creighton, 21, of Windsor, N.C., died in Rawah, Iraq on April 8

*Cpl. Kenneth D. Hess, 26, of Asheville, N.C., died in Rawah, Iraq on April 11.

*Cpl. Joseph A. Blanco, 25, of Bloomington, Calif. died in Taji, Iraq on April 11.

*Pfc. James F. Costello III, 27, of St. Louis, Mo. died in Taji, Iraq on April 11.

* Pfc. George R. Roehl Jr., 21, of Manchester, N.H. died in Taji, Iraq on April 11.


Peace,

Chad (The Left) Shue

P.S. To Congressional Democrats:
These Americans have completed their "Transition in 2006"

Wednesday, April 12, 2006

Scott Olson to challenge for 39th LD House Seat

Is this the year that the Democrats begin to undo the damage created by redistricting in the 39th LD? The Snohomish County Democrats believe that it is and Scott Olson is the man they are counting on to do it. I was introduced to Scott by Steve Galea , Chair of the 39th LD Democrats at the Snohomish County Convention on Saturday. I was impressed with his knowledge of the issues facing the district and his enthusiasm for the challenge. Scott has lived in the 39th LD for nearly 20 years and has been active in many areas. He has owned a small business in the area and is keeping in touch with the locals as a bartender at the Sailfish Grill. His previous electoral experience includes a term on the Sultan City Council. Scott will be challenging Dan Kristiansen, who is coming off his second term in the legislature.

In 2004, the Democrats made spirited efforts for all three positions in the 39th but were not able to gain enough momentum to reach the finish line due, in part, to a division of available resources (read $$). Due to Democratic gains made in other districts in 2004, there is hope that there might be a more committed effort on the part of the party to get behind a single candidate and finally make that break through in the 39th. Scott is certainly receiving some excellent guidance from solid mentors like Rep. Hans Dunshee (re-districted in 2003 from the 39th to the 44th) and Dave Somers (former Chair of the 39th and current County Councilman) as well as Joel Selling who was one of the three Democratic candidates from the 39th in 2004. There is also a serious effort at volunteer and financial recruitment coming from Steve Galea and County Chair, Mark Hintz .

As of this writing, I believe Scott and his team are working on creating and deploying that increasingly important web site and I will be quick to post that information when it becomes available. In the meantime, if you would like more information about Scott (or would like to make a contribution of time or money), you may reach his campaign at:

Committee to Elect Scott Olson – 39th LD Democrat
PO Box 1394
Monroe, WA 98272
(425) 293-9226


Peace,

Chad (The Left) Shue

IWR News

Iraq Body Count: 4/12/06
Americans Killed: 2361
Americans Wounded: 17,269
Iraqi Dead: Est.: 38,164
http://icasualties.org/oif/
......................................................

Latest Confirmed Casualties:

*Lance Cpl. Bryan N. Taylor, 20, of Milford, Ohio, died April 6 near Al Qaim, Iraq.

*Cpl. Richard P. Waller, 22, of Fort Worth, Texas, died April 7 in Al Anbar province, Iraq.

*Lance Cpl. Juana NavarroArellano, 24, of Ceres, Calif., died April 8 in Al Anbar province, Iraq.

*Pfc. Joseph I. Love, 22, of North Pole, Alaska, died in Balad, Iraq, on April 9.

*Spc. David S. Collins, 24, of Jasper Ga., died in Ar Ramadi, Iraq, on April 9th.

*Spc. James W. Gardner, 22, of Glasgow, Ky., died in Tal Afar, Iraq, on April 10.

*Sgt. 1st Class Randall L. Lamberson, 36, of Springfield, Mo., died in Balad, Iraq on April 10th.

Peace,

Chad (The Left) Shue

Tuesday, April 11, 2006

IWR News

Iraq Body Count: 4/11/06
Americans Killed: 2354
Americans Wounded: 17,269
Iraqi Dead: Est.: 38,164
http://icasualties.org/oif/
.......................................................

Latest Confirmed Casualties:

*Sgt. 1st Class Gregory S. Rogers, 42, of Cincinnati, Ohio, died in Ar Ramadi, Iraq on April 9.

*Pvt. Jody W. Missildine, 19, of Plant City, Fla., died in Tal Afar, Iraq, on April 8.


Peace,

Chad (The Left) Shue

Saturday, April 08, 2006

IWR News

Iraq Body Count: 4/08/06
Americans Killed: 2349
Americans Wounded: 17,269
Iraqi Dead: Est.:37,943
http://icasualties.org/oif/
.......................................................

Latest Confirmed Casualties:

*Pfc. Chase A. Edwards, 19, of Lake Charles, La., died April 6 in Al Anbar province, Iraq.

*Spc. Dustin J. Harris, 21, of Bangor, Maine, died in Bayji, Iraq on April 6.


Peace,

Chad (The Left) Shue

Thursday, April 06, 2006

IWR News

Iraq Body Count: 4/06/06
Americans Killed: 2344
Americans Wounded: 17,269
Iraqi Dead: Est.:37,943
http://icasualties.org/oif/
.......................................................

Latest Confirmed Casualties:

*Hospitalman Geovani Padillaaleman, 20, of South Gate, Calif., died Apr. 2 in Al Anbar Province, Iraq.

*Lance Cpl. Jacob W. Beisel, 21, of Lackawaxen, Pa. died March 31 Al Anbar Province, Iraq.

*Capt. Timothy J. Moshier, 25, of Albany, N.Y. died in Baghdad Iraq on April 1.

*Chief Warrant Officer Michael L. Hartwick, 37, of Orrick, Mo. died in Baghdad Iraq on April 1.

*Staff Sgt. Darrell P. Clay, 34, of Fayetteville, N.C. They died in Baghdad, Iraq, on April 1.

*Sgt. Israel Devora Garcia, 23, of Clint, Texas died in Baghdad, Iraq, on April 1.

*Lance Cpl. Kun Y. Kim, 20, of Atlanta, Ga. died April 2 Al Anbar Province, Iraq.

*Staff Sgt. Eric A. McIntosh, 29, of Trafford, Pa. died April 2 Al Anbar Province, Iraq.

*Cpl. Scott J. Procopio, 20, of Saugus, Mass. died April 2 Al Anbar Province, Iraq.

*Cpl. Andres Aguilar Jr., 21, of Victoria, Texas died April 2 near Al Asad, Iraq.

*Cpl. David A. Bass, 20, of Nashville, Tenn. died April 2 near Al Asad, Iraq.

*Lance Cpl. Patrick J. Gallagher, 27, of Jacksonville, Fla. died April 2 near Al Asad, Iraq.

*Lance Cpl. Felipe D. Sandoval-Flores, 20, of Los Angeles, Calif. died April 2 near Al Asad, Iraq.

*Cpl. Brian R. St. Germain, 22, of Warwick, R.I. died April 2 near Al Asad, Iraq.

*Staff Sgt. Abraham G. Twitchell, 28, of Yelm, Wash.(45th from Washington State) died April 2 near Al Asad, Iraq.

*Spc. Ty J. Johnson, 28, of Elk Grove, Calif., died in Kirkuk, Iraq, on April 4.


Peace,

Chad (The Left) Shue

Tuesday, April 04, 2006

IWR News

Iraq Body Count: 4/04/06
Americans Killed: 2342
Americans Wounded: 17,269
Iraqi Dead: Est.:37,943
http://icasualties.org/oif/
.......................................................

Latest Confirmed Casualties:

*Staff Sgt. Robert Hernandez, 47, of Silver Spring, Md., died in Al Taquaddum, Iraq on March 28.

*Pfc. Joseph J. Duenas, 23, of Mesa, Ariz., died in Kirkuk Province, Iraq on March 30.

*Pfc. Jeremy W. Ehle, 19, of Richmond, Va., died on April 2 in Hit, Iraq.


Peace,

Chad (The Left) Shue

Monday, April 03, 2006

IWR News

Iraq Body Count: 4/03/06
Americans Killed: 2332
Americans Wounded: 17,269
Iraqi Dead: Est.:37,936
http://icasualties.org/oif/
.......................................................


Latest Confirmed Casualties:

*Pfc. Sean D. Tharp, 21, of Orlando, Fla., died in Baghdad, Iraq on March 28.


Peace,

Chad (The Left) Shue

Sunday, April 02, 2006

PCSCD Endorsements

The Progressive Caucus of Snohomish County Democrats (PCSCD) is pleased to announce their endorsement of Lillian Kaufer for State Senate, 44th LD in the September primary election and, hopefully, beyond. The primary winner will challenge incumbent republican Dave Schmidt in November. The PCSCD played an active role in the successful primary and general election campaigns of Dave Somers in 2005 as he reclaimed his seat on the Snohomish County Council from republican Jeff Sax. We are hoping for similar success for Lillian Kaufer.


Lillian will be facing off against another good Democrat, Steve Hobbs, in the primary election. In the end, the PCSCD based its endorsement on Lillian’s compelling story as a wife and mother, small business owner, community activist, and active PCO in her LD. Lillian has a real-time understanding of the issues that face working people in the 44th LD and, with a background as a Girl Scout leader, fundraiser for the Everett Family YMCA, and “work from home mom”, she brings solid “family values” credentials that will be hard to challenge in November. As a community activist, she has recently helped lead Citizens for a Better Mill Creek, an organization that supports living wage jobs and planned growth in south Snohomish County. Lillian has also been a leader in the effort to stop the encroachment of another Wal-Mart into Mill Creek. To help Lillian help us increase our Progressive opportunities in Olympia, visit her on the web at Lillian Kaufer for Senate

The PCSCD is comprised of some 30 plus members; active in six of the seven legislative districts in Snohomish County . Amongst our members are PCOs, LD-County-State Officers, and elected Democrats. While we are not an official arm of the county or state party, by encouraging participation in those organizations, we do seek to influence the policies and activities of those bodies. As we collect no dues from membership, our support to candidates and causes comes in the form of volunteer efforts such as door belling and phone banking. In addition to Lillian Kaufer, we have endorsed I-937 (The Clean Energy Initiative) and Mark Wilson for US Senate so far this year. For more on the Progressive Caucus of Snohomish County Democrats, visit us on the web at:
http://pcscd.home.comcast.net

Peace,
Chad (The Left) Shue

Saturday, April 01, 2006

Mushroom Cloud Condi Watch II

"Rice Says Era of U.S. Supporting Non-Democratic Regimes Is Over

April 1 (Bloomberg)
--
U.S. Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice said the U.S. will no longer give explicit support to governments that are not elected, suggesting that spreading democracy now takes priority over maintaining political stability."..."Seeking to win over opponents of U.S. actions, Rice called the change in policy ``one of the most important'' her government has made. She didn't say specifically what the change would mean or name countries that are affected."
***********************************************************************************

Should we help the Princess of Doom with that list? Let's start with Saudi Arabia and The United Arab Emirates. Anybody care to add more? It probably won't matter. I'm sure they already have their list all worked out.


Peace,

Chad (The Left) Shue

Impeachment News

Nixon looms over hearing on censure
By James Kuhnhenn
Knight Ridder Newspapers
March 31, 2006

"WASHINGTON — Memories of Watergate, break-ins and cover-ups hovered like the ghosts of shamed presidencies over a Senate hearing Friday on whether to censure President Bush.
There was John Dean, the former White House counsel who exposed Richard Nixon in the Watergate cover-up nearly 33 years ago, calling for Bush's censure.
Of fresher vintage was Sen. Lindsey Graham, R-S.C., who as a House member eight years ago helped manage the impeachment trial of President Clinton. Though Graham once advocated censure for Clinton, on Friday he made a case for sparing Bush."
******************************************************************************

For those who require a bit of a history lesson, Richard Nixon resigned rather than face the impending impeachment that was being put together in the House. One of the articles being debated involved illegal wiretaps and searches of American citizens. The FISA Act was a direct result of Nixon's actions.

**********************************************************************************
"The motion has attracted only two other co-sponsors and only two of the Senate Judiciary Committee's eight Democrats showed up Friday at a hearing convened by Chairman Arlen Specter, R-Pa. No votes were taken.
Significantly, however, the panel's top Democrat, Sen. Patrick Leahy, D-Vt., said for the first time that he "is inclined to believe" censure is an appropriate sanction against Bush.
"We know the president broke the law," Leahy said. (emphasis added) "Now we need to know why."
Graham and Specter disagreed with Bush's claim of having the legal authority to wiretap U.S. citizens ( emphasis added) but rejecting that the president deserves an official reprimand."..."Conservative legal scholar Bruce Fein, an active supporter of Bush's judicial nominees, condemned the president's wiretapping program and said Bush's justifications undermine the government.
"You can lose a republic on the installment plan every bit as efficiently as, at one fell swoop, with a coup d'état," he said."

***********************************************************************************
So here we have it; republicans and Democrats alike agreeing that George W. Bush has broken the law and violated the US Constitution. If you are keeping score, we are now at three Senators who favor holding him accountable and 97 who are looking for a rock big enough to hide under.

Peace,

Chad (The Left) Shue