Peace Activist Cindy Sheehan Arrested at Congress
WASHINGTON - Calling for the impeachment of U.S. President George W. Bush and Vice President Dick Cheney, Cindy Sheehan and 45 fellow Iraq war protesters were arrested on Monday after they refused to leave a U.S. lawmaker’s office and adjoining hallway, authorities said.
Before police escorted her away, Sheehan, who emerged as a leading peace activist after her son Casey was killed in Iraq in 2004, announced what she had earlier suggested — that she would be a candidate for Congress next year. 
Sheehan said she would challenge House of Representatives Speaker Nancy Pelosi, a California Democrat. Pelosi has refused calls to start impeachment of Bush and Cheney for what critics charge was misleading the United States into war.
The new Democratic-led Congress has been hit with approval ratings of less than 25 percent largely because of its failure to deliver on a campaign vow to withdraw troops from Iraq.
Sheehan and fellow protesters were led away in plastic handcuffs after they refused to heed repeated calls by Capitol Police to depart the office of Democratic Rep. John Conyers of Michigan, and a hallway outside his office.
“What do we want? Impeachment. When do we want it? Now,” Sheehan and others chanted while seated on the floor of Conyers’ office following her private meeting with him.
A spokeswoman for Capitol Police said the 46 protesters were being charged with disorderly conduct, a misdemeanor, and were likely to be released within hours after processing.
Conyers had raised the possibility of impeaching Bush more than a year ago while Republicans were in charge of Congress.
But Pelosi rejected the idea during last year’s campaign that saw Democrats win control of the House and Senate, saying she wanted to concentrate efforts on ending the war.
“The speaker is focused on changing course in Iraq by bringing our troops home safely and soon and refocusing our effort on protecting Americans from terrorism,” said Brendan Daly, Pelosi’s press secretary.
When Sheehan and others arrived on Capitol Hill they were confronted by a number of backers of the war. One held a sign reading, “Patriots want victory in Iraq.”
© Reuters 2006.
This woman is inspiring.
I guess under the new order signed by the insano on July 17th, Cindy could be declared disruptive of the Iraq war policy and have her assets frozen by the Treasury department. What a fascist world this little mad man has woven and we just watch.
The thugs in charge of the U.S. government better not harm one hair on Cindy’s head.
I thought bush said the mission was accomplished years ago. Pelosi says she wants to concentrate efforts to end the war. What war? It’s an occupation now. She’s just another Republican in Democratic clothing, a DINO — as most Democrats are.
End the friggin’ occupation!
By the way, how come the U.S. wasn’t concerned about how Kim Jong Il treats his people? They’re starving to death. Why didn’t the U.S. attack and occupy N Korea the way it did Iraq. The Iraqis by comparison were better off under Saddam; women were the best educated in the middle east. Now they have to sell their bodies in order to survive, thanks to King George and his greed.
All the other mothers out there who have lost a son or daughter, widows who have lost husbands, husbands who have lost wives and anyone else who has a heart should stand with Cindy in her brave efforts to stop the bloodshed.
I am reminded of Sting’s song about the mothers, wives and daughters of the disappeared during Pinochet’s regime, who were only allowed to walk in a circle silently.
“Why are these women here? Why is there a sadness in their eyes?”
“Dancing with their missing, dancing with their dead…their anguish is unsaid . . .dancing with their fathers,dancing with their sons, dancing with their husbands, they dance alone.”
“One day we’ll dance . . . one day we’ll win our freedom … One day we’ll dance in our joy.”
It is so sad that today, there are families suffering under a U.S.President, as families in other countries have by dictators. But, we too, will one day, will win our freedom from Bush, Cheney, & Co.
And you say we don’t have a dictatorship here?
The illegal invasion of Iraq has RUINED the United States and the world IS NOT better off with Sadaam removed from power.
Had the US focused it’s attention on Osama and brought him to justice, the world would have renounced the actions of terrorists and a new day would have dawned. Unfortunately, the US is ruled by MILITARY CORPORATIONS who instead desire a world at war FOREVER for their own greed.
It is ESSENTIAL that the Bush Administration be IMPEACHED so that these wrongs can be righted. Bush MUST be made example of if there is to be any hope of defeating terrorist tactics. As long as people rejoice after a terrorist attack, they will continue. The demolition of the Bush Administration will demonstrate that ALL EVIL-DOERS can be brought to justice. A lesson the world deserately needs to learn.
IMPEACH!!!
KUCINICH ‘08
Peace to you and yours.
lillulu,
North Korea has no OIL and they have a military that would actually fight back.
Here in the US, it’s worse than a dictatorship, because it’s presented as a democracy.
I hope she had the chance to present the petitions to Conyer’s office staff. Keep his phone lines jammed!
The formula is tried and true.. Their action, your reaction, and the ultimately the solution, the war/occupation will end.. But in the mean time profits are made and they who profit play out as long as they can on the public’s sentiment until it reaches a saturation point, then they let it end and they cash in and move on to the next war/conflict, that they can create.
The scenario has played it’s self out many times before.. Most recently in history, Vietnam.
Even if we don’t like to think about it. It really is just that calculated
“Here in the US, it’s worse than a dictatorship, because it’s presented as a democracy.”
And imposters used the latest tricks MAdison Avenue so good at. But thanks bush the smoke is fading and more people see our government the way it really IS.
So, forget Democrats, I would not bothewr even to vote for them, least of all canvas for them. I worked hard for Bob Menendez (D-NJ) only to watch in horror him voting for Military Commissions Act days before Novemer 6, 2006.
“This woman is inspiring.”
She would have been a lot more inspiring if more than a paltry 300 would have turned out for the event.
You all need to get over this culture of celebrity. Were not the fourty five who stayed to get arrested along with her also inspiring?
When they have to arrest a million of of us trying to get in the Rayburn building, then things will change.
The real question is how many of us are willing to get arrested; to have our credit screwed; to have our assets seized; to lose our jobs because we were thrown in jail; to risk everything to finally take a stand. How many people have to step up before we, the rest of us, get up the courage to do the same?
The charges are minor it is not going to affect your credit rating, nor are assets going to be seized.
And with enough people turning out they cannot arrest us all.
How many, within a 5 hour drive of DC, knew of ths action in DC yesterday and were supportive of it. And how many turned out - a measily 300.
Pathetic.
Yeah, sure, to the media, we were just Cindy’s “entoutrage” yesterday.
Cindy is NOT the movement - she’s not even a good speaker.
I just wonder what Ms. Sheehan hoped to accomplish by sitting in @ Conyers office. Rep. Conyers is definitely in the choir on this one.
It’s also clear with the small Dem minorities in both the House and Senate that the Dems cannot initiate impeachment proceedings until there are calls from at least some GOP representatives and senators for Bush and Cheney’s impeachment.
Let’s say they do and the whole Democratic caucus votes in the affirmative. The impeachment resolution will pass, but just barely. Only a simple majority is necessary. Then it goes on to the Senate for trial. There a two thirds majority is necessary for conviction. If there is no GOP support for impeachment, it will fail. That’s a lock.
Although there is no restriction to passing additional articles of impeachment if the first set fails, I suspect it will be politically impossible to do so. I can hear the press conferences of the GOP members now: “blah, blah, blah, vendetta, blah, wasting time, blah, blah, sore losers…” etc. etc. It would be a PR field day for them and would likely be a huge bump to GOP election prospects in 2008.
Get smart here. Stop jamming Rep. Conyers lines. He’d impeach tomorrow if he could. Work on the GOP reps and Senators. Turn them and we’re in business. There have been some encouraging cracks already showing. Spectre, Lugar, Voinovich, Snow for a few. The Senators that voted for withdrawal from Iraq and those that publically called for it then voted against it. The hypocrisy of their position is a huge lever.
In the House, work on the members of the House Judiciary committee. The Admin ordering Harriet Miers to “ignore” a Congressional subpoena is a great lever there. Do the GOP reps really want that precedent to stand? Let’s say we have another President Clinton in a few years. Do they want Hillary to be able to cite this precedent and ignore their subpoenas? They’ve got to be losing sleep over that already.
Stop being just angry and focus on the goal. I’d love to see Mr.’s Bush and Cheney in the dock at The Hague for their war crimes after being run out of office in the US, but it will not happen until the GOP stops protecting them. Turn up the heat on the GOP.
It’s not how many got arrested yesterday that matters, it’s how many will be arrested TODAY, that does.
Keep the heat on!
Peace to you and yours.
So people will be arrested, assets stolen, credit messed up and lose their jobs now if they dare protest the “war?” WTF?? How long are the fascists going to get away with taking our rights away from us? This is unbelievable!
These smug, arrogant, condescending criminals in charge of the U.S. need to be charged with war crimes, crimes against humanity, abuse of power, treason, etc.
Cindy has shown Congress does indeed have the power to arrest, but apparently only those seeking truth and accountability. What a sad state of affairs. An empire with a petty little tyrant at the helm with his ship of fools to propagate his misinformation and lies.
Our Holy Warrior safe in the conviction that Jesus talks through him, that it is not enough that we invade and occupy a nation of 27 million people with nothing but a desert sitting upon a sea of oil. Indeed, Jesus tells him that the evil that is the nation known as Iran must be also be attacked. The Lord tells him to trust our Saudi “friends” however, though they compromised 15 of the 19 hijackers in 9/11, and though they represent 45 percent of the foreign militants and suicide bombers in Iraq.
The top 3 nations with the largest amounts of oil, of course entirely by coincidence, are:
1) Saudi Arabia
2) Iraq
3) Iran
*according to Wikipedia
Canada would come in at #2 only if the huge tar sands are
included, which would be prohibitively expensive to extract, with
enormous environmental damage as a consequence.
oneguy July 24th, 2007 9:21 am
Wow oneguy it looks like you want to impeach. Who in the government is going to impeach the Shrubs & Bushes? That represents a giant dilemma since the 1st Amendment is creamed along with the 2nd, 3rd, 4th and 5th. An impeachment is only possible with a functioning Bill of Rights. One possibility is to readdress the Declaration of Independence to this George rather than King George and do the abolish thing that the colonials did.
Ah, if only Reagain were alive; what did he do in Lebanon? Cut and ran!
RICK: Calculated, yes; but the ultimate calculus will alter as new variables such as climate change erupt the old formula.
COYOTITA: thanks for the Sting lyrics. I adore him! And those words were so apt to this discussion.
IKSAFFORD: You are an excellent strategist. Good ideas!
Conyers:
http://judiciary.house.gov/Contact.aspx
Along with IMPEACH! The mantra should include:
“WHERE IS OSAMA BIN LADEN? WHERE IS OSAMA BIN LADEN? WHERE IS OSAMA BIN LADEN? WHERE IS OSAMA BIN LADEN? WHERE IS OSAMA BIN LADEN? WHERE IS OSAMA BIN LADEN?”
There is no spin to make to that question; no place to hide from the reality that we are no safer from the terrorists who bombed us. “WHERE IS OSAMA BIN LADEN?”
When Pelosi loses the primary, she’ll run as an independent and vote with the Republicans. So will the rest of the DNC crowd.
As someone who has done their fair share of bi-partisan work with legislators, I can honestly say that until protesters are willing to do much more than sit-in at a legislator’s office - much less a Democratic one - it is indeed hopeless. In order to get GOPers to cross the isle on impeachment, censure, or what have you, one has to actually make it hard or impossible for those legislators to do their job, from their office at least. Actually occupying legislators offices is the way to go. You see, when it gets to the point that they have to actually close off access to the legislators offices, because so many people are willing to block the entrance to their office, they will get the message.
I have actually gone to a lobby meeting at a Republican Senator’s office, while anti-war protesters were sitting in the lobby of the office, quietly chanting peace prayers. While it was heartwarming and all, the staffers were literally laughing about it behind closed doors. Now, if those protesters would have made it uncomfortable for the Senator to conduct his meeting, it would begin to actually irritate him. Dig?
Surely those with the sign had some shared qualities:
To make voting mandatory.
1) They were misrepresenting the “Patriots.”
2) They were representing the Petrol-iots.
3) They did not know where Iraq is.
4) They did not know what victory means.
5) They were paid demonstrators, AND,
6) They were zombies with an extra butt for a head.
This country needs:
1) To have more than two political parties.
2) To trash Electoral College.
3) To trash electronic voting machines that give no paper trail.
4) To criminalize campaign financing.
5) To criminalize lobbying.
6) To prohibit media concentration.
7) To set Sundays for voting to make it easier to vote
9) To look at some European countries to see what democracy is.
10) To try Bush/Cheney and members of the Congress for, among others, war
crimes and crimes against humanity.
Run Cindy Run! Pelosi is worse than incompetent, she is complicit in continuing the war. She never had any intention of taking on the Bush-Cheney criminal enterprise. Her goals are parochial and partisan. Hey Nancy, how many more American soldiers and innocent Iraqis are you willing to sacrifice in order to ensure no Republican can be elected in 2008?!!
Nobody runs for Congress anymore to represent us. Come on, would you? Seriously, have you seen the benefits they give you? Healthcare, retirement, kids’ college, nice paycheck. And you only have to be in Congress for one term to get all that! And on top of that, think of how much money you’ll get from lobbyists! That’s the best incentive for running again and again, building up that bank account and getting those free vacations. Who doesn’t love a free vacation?
Impeach? Why are you going to bite the hand that feeds you? As long as Bush is in office, there’s a reason for Democrats to exist.
Happystead,
“…the world IS NOT better off with Sadaam(sic) removed from power”.
The world IS a better off with Saddam removed from power. In fact had the U.S. not betrayed Iraqis, they would have removed him before BushCo. Forget about the BushCo claim of removing Saddam to bring democracy; he was just an obstacle to get to the oil, as I’m sure you know.
I think you are comparing the horrible disaster BushCo have created after removing Saddam with the disaster when Saddam was in power. In that case you’re right.
Saddam for long used to be a U.S. lackey and a despicable tyrant like Bush is now. It is good that he’s gone. What Bush did AFTER removing him is a discredit to Bush, not a credit for Saddam.
I thought she quit?
Hey Pelosi (et al), need a reason?
Lying, torture, spying, treason!
That’s a keeper!
lksafford if the Dims REALLY wanted to impeach Bush they’d be out working the media circuit, making speeches on the floor of Congress, etc. No the Dims are not serious because many of them voted for the war and are up to their necks in war profiteering gravy.
I hope Cindy runs and kicks coward Pelosi’s ass all the way around the block getting at least 60% of the vote. If that happened the Dim would know they can’t both hold onto power and go against the majority who wants us out of Iraq.
Why is everyone so critical of those that are on “our side”? I think if all those who want our Democracy back, or a similar facsimile thereof, would UNITE and encourage each other in what they do instead of always looking for something to criticize, perhaps we could be effective???
Here’s what I am doing.
I attend a peace stand every Saturday.
I am working on the Kucinich campaign..doing such things as tabling.
I am collecting votes in the Impeach Cheney poll.
Criticize me. Say it will do no good. Say I am a poor speaker, etc.
Now, tell me what are you doing?? I’m open to ideas!
Dear SkySonia, and everyone else out there:
I am going to make myself a great big button asking:
“Where is OSAMA BIN LADEN?”
and I pass out flyers on busy street corners, and I pay for the copies, and I talk to people. And I want Kucinich and Edwards and Obama to win the presidential election.
Nauseating favoritism for the Dem war profiteers last nite on CNN “debate”. Go Cindy. We love you.
If ever there was a time to dismantle the status quo it’s now. Cindy should be an inspiration to anyone and everyone fed up with the DemoRepub stranglehold on this nation. Every Green, every Libertarian, every Independent, every Whatever (make one up!)should either run for office or fiercely support anyone but a DemoRepub Dog! Run for Congress, for Mayor, for City council, for the school board, for dogcatcher. Let’s stir this stagnant putrid pot up, better yet, let’s throw it out and start over.
lksafford - did the Repusgs wait around for Dim support when they impeached Clinton for lying about a BJ? No! they had their “moral high ground” and they went fo it, dragging the rest of the country along kicking and screaming. It is up to the “leadership” of the house of representatives to LEAD the way, not sit around and wait for the repugs to give them permision.
Cindy (and her fans),
Pleeeaaaaasse . . . don’t wait until the general election to run against Pelosi. Run a two-step race. Run against her as a Democrat in the Primary. Then if you don’t win, get on the Green Party ticket and run on their 2008 Progressive Platform against her in the general election for the House seat she currently disgraces. By working with both parties Cindy, you can get lots of support from true progressives in both parties–and support from the San Francisco progressive majority. Don’t deprive San Francisco folks of the choice to vote for you in the Democratic Primary. Remember, San Francisco voters already voted to impeach Bush.
conyers…that is not your office..it’s the PEOPLES
what next you freakin hack..gonna get some German Shepard attack dogs, and get out the fire hoses?
LEAD, FOLLOW, OR GET THE HELL OUTTA THE WAY!!
IMPEACH NOW
Symbolic statement/protest/martyrdom may sometimes help, but I’d submit that this is one technique, among many, in the movement. Rather than head-banging politicians, in a co-dependent/dysfunctional relationship, we need to engage, convince, activate, etc. our fellow American. We should approach politicians more like forces of nature, rocks, mountains, etc. They’re either onboard or not for the most part, since being elected, and probably cannot be convinced otherwise without a large amount of money (a huge bribe otherwise known as a campaign contribution) or massive shift in the political winds.
Lacking the money, our job is to get our fellow American engaged. Each of us should “work on” 5 new people, and get them to each work on 5 new people, etc. We need to encourage people to be active and engaged.
Run the warhawks out of office, and no such protests will be necessary.
Ha ha! So “Bull” Conyers shows us what happens when peace activists git all uppity. What’s next, dogs and fire hoses?
Paul has it absolutely right. We need to consolidate the masses and expand our base. Be prepared for people to hurl profanities, insults, and objects at you. But stand together and keep fighting. Do not be afraid to hit below the belt (metaphorically, not physically) if you need to. Folks, the time has come. Let’s get to work!
I have a great deal of respect for Cindy, and strongly support her cause, but could we PLEASE learn some new chants? we’re creative animals arent we?
Prior to the start of the Iraq invasion, millions marched in protest worldwide; half million in Florence Italy, 1.5 Million in Rome, 1 million in London, half million in NYC, 200,000 in San Francisco, most every community had some form of protest. Entire cities were shut down.
Marking the one year anniversary the numbers of demonstrators were large (still in the 100’s of thousands)but probably half that prior to the invasion.
Two years after, the numbers were down to 10’s of thousands.
Three years after 100’s showed up.
Four years after, in 2007, more people were killed in one week in car bombs in Iraq than showed to protest.
—–At the start of the Vietnam invasion, who knew?
A year later a handful of college professors and radical beatniks started to make a little noise, they were dismissed as kooks.
Two years later a few more profs and beatniks.
Three years later, enter the hippies, thousands start to show up to demonstrate.
Four years later, 100’s of thousands,
Five years later millions of protesters took to the streets!
Are we in BIZARRO WORLD?
claudius: If approached correctly, no insults are forthcoming. ALL progressives need to all take a course entitled “Interfacing Outside the Choir 101″.
* Establish respect. Show them what you can do with your hands, working on your house, your art, some expertise, something you can DO that they’ll see and respect. Without respect, forget it. And keep in mind that, once lost, respect may be impossible to regain later.
* Show humor. People are drawn to people having fun. I met Paul Wellstone a couple times and saw him speak on a few occasions here in Minnesota. Even when he made his veins pop out in speaking earnest and frustration, he could manage a wink & grin to his audience. He was charged.
* Lead mainly by example, not by rhetoric.
* Never preach.
* When speaking, frame it in qualities your audience already understands. Don’t waste time redefining labels (collections of qualities) they’ve long since departed from, don’t understand or don’t trust. Drop the word “liberal” like a lead balloon.
* Never solicit for money because it’s pretty clear that this is a battle for heart & soul, dreams and hopes, not another excuse to make people depart with their hard-earned money.
In general, there’s a joie de vivre out there which progressives too rarely tap into.
“The speaker is focused on changing course in Iraq by bringing our troops home safely and soon and refocusing our effort on protecting Americans from terrorism,” said Brendan Daly, Pelosi’s press secretary.
“protecting americans from terrorism” is what got us in this disastrous crime in the 1st place. is this pelosi’s press sec, or w’s? given that the war in iraq has made terrorism worse, wouldn’t impeachment of w. and his black pope cheney make us safer?
here’s a new chant:
DEFEAT TERRORISM! IMPEACH BUSH/CHENEY!
I think Pelosi might lose this challenge by Sheehan, and she better get wise quick. I don’t think this is something that will pass or she can shrug off.
Some of what Cindy says is a bit over the top and anguished for my taste, but I can’t hold it against her because she has suffered a terrible loss and was not given the dignity and respect from the President of a personal consolation.
Then, there is no doubt she has become a national hero. She is going to loom large in the history books. If California can hire the Terminator as Governor, it can hire Sheehan for Congress.
Paul,
Thanks for the tips. I will keep them in mind.
Hopefully Cindy can help transform the movement to end the war into something even larger — a movement to end the empire. The American people are sick of the predator corporations using this nation’s government and its people as pawns in their quest to dominate the planet for their insatiable greed.
Mr. Bramscher,
I grew up in one conservative area and currently live in another conservative area and so I have had conservative friends and family members my entire life, though I have been progressive since my teen years. I agree with much of what you say, though I would add some bitter medicine for some progressives. Positions on issues that may be interpreted as celebrating victimhood and the sexual issues are non-starters with any conservatives I know and it is impossible to make any meaningful progress in communication as long as those issues are part of the discussion.
kivals,
I agree with what you are saying. I too have gotten into contentious discussions with conservatives and concluded that no matter how suave and sophisticated I present my case, it would take moving heaven and earth to get them to even listen. It is an area that often gets overlooked. We are a divided country. Maybe it will take debate among the people since we are by no means monolithic in our political views. Either way, it is an uphill battle, but one worth fighting. However, your point is noted.
These insurgents like Sheehan are a waste of life. Imagine the nerve of that lady disturbing that nice mild man who loves us all enough to hold hearings! Shame on these Godless animals who would attack our beloved congress persons!
Before Conyers called the coppers on Americans holding a million signatures he said if he has three more sponsors he will go forward.
Three Three Three. Where art thee?
They can waste time with non binding resolutions and all night sleepovers to put on the record how public servants are voting on Iraq, but they can’t put Impeachment on the table.
Mmmm the math.
One million American, Patriotic citizens want impeachment vs. 535 public servants.
Kucinich is the only sane and humane choice for President.
For More of My Modern Musings
2007 Blogathon | July 28th, 2007 | 48 Posts in 24 Hours | For and To Resist
taureandevi July 24th, 2007 4:18 pm
Dennis wants the assault weapon ban back and wants a handgun ban. Then you will see that he carries a 9mm.
We are not going to get to ‘08 at this rate. If we get there it is amazing how many people are willing to accept more degradation of the Constitution. I’m supporting Ron Paul and realize he is the only true candidate running at all!
kivals: That’s been my experience as well. The conservatives I grew up around, and in my current neighborhood, are conservative primarily due to their over-reliance on corporate media and a certain parochialism that goes along with not having much money. But they are open to suggestion. And they probably represent the majority, in numbers, of citizens in this country.
Wealthy conservatives, on the other hand, are arguably lost causes — some may be pathologically greedy, and perhaps would sell their own grandmothers if they stood to profit. They’re on top of the game, and they know it. Short of a religious conversion, they’ll seek only to increase their already-sufficient economic footprint.
I should clarify that I can’t speak for Cindy’s situation, since losing a child puts one into a whole different category. But her situation reaffirms to me that we should not subjugate our moral capacity with regard to who/when to kill. This should not be mistaken as a call for pacifism. Defending family/community against a real aggressor is arguably a noble call to duty. But anyone who joins the military, in today’s circumstances, should understand that he’s signing up for empire & oil expansion. It’s too bad our military has descended to this (my father and all my uncles served, and I came extremely close to joining ROTC myself), but the duty contract goes both ways. Our military expects unquestioning loyalty among its soldiers, and I — as a private citizen — expect it, in return, to defend against real threats to this country’s people. Neither imaginery, optional, concocted, manufactured, or some other country’s battles & problems.
I agree it would be politic for Cindy to run in the primary as a Democrat. I can understand her disgust for the Democratic Party, I share it. But winning the primary (and polling strongly during the campaign) would send a message to outsider candidates and a shudder throughout the DLC.
macchendra, Pelosi’s San Francisco district is not Connecticut. If Pelosi lost the primary, she would not win as an independent. Connecticut had a lot of Republicans cross over, and a lot of Democrats who wanted Lieberman’s proven ability to pull money into Connecticut. His ties to the Administration are beneficial to Connecticut and the voters know it. There are also a lot of single issue Jewish voters in Connecticut who support Lieberman’s loyalty to Israel. San Francisco is an entirely different story. I believe Cindy can end Pelosi’s career.
For what it is worth, the State of Washington had an impeachment bill before it. Apparently, Pelosi and I think Murray came from DC to Washington to lecture the state government on Democratic solidarity and that impeachment would be counterproductive. It worked. The bill was not acted upon and died at adjournment. There were a hell of a lot of us that wrote our state reps asking for positive action on the bill.
Every time I link to the Populist website, I don’t get posted, but you may find an article interesting, titled “The Drones Respond.” It has, amongst other things, Murray’s computer generated form letter on impeachment.
Malatesta, the reason support increased against the Vietnam war was because of the draft. We have no draft so most Americans do not feel personally imposed on by the war in Iraq. The people on this blog care about people everywhere, but it seems many of our coutrymen can only be motivated by self-interest.
Therefore, when we are trying to gain their support we must appeal to whatever they care about. This should not be hard, since Bushco have destroyed or damaged everything in the coutry, college scholarships, the environment, the constitution, healthcare, tax cuts for the rich, destruction of unions, New Orleans,
etc. I am sure you all can come up with your own list.
Another thing we all can do is support public financing of elections, this would go a long way to help get rid of corporate money and give canidates with integrity and third party canidates a chance at election. See www.jimhightower.org if you want more information on this subject.
Sheehan challenging Pelosi for her seat only divides the left. Its a poor political calculation. The Democrats didn’t win in November, the Republicans lost. If the left wants to win two branches of government in 2008, we must stop fighting ourselves.
Observer - “Don’t vote for Democrats” ??
Oh right, let’s all make sure romney gets in and continues the “screwing of America”
Get real observer, and anyone else with those idiotic ideas - I think it’s pretty damn blatant by now why the Dems can’t get anywhere when it comes to Iraq - and if you haven’t been paying attention them maybe it’s time!!
Getting rid of more pubs in 2008 will help end this war.
I’m all for impeachment and getting bush/cheney out .. but this war isn’t going to end that easily… not as long as the pubs control the votes!!
Cindy, I wish I could vote for you … I hope San Fran makes it a landslide for you!!
Cindy, your timing couldn’t be better,as right now bush is in the mood to be giving out pardons.
Cindy does what millions of us should be doing, calling loud attention to a mad, power bent oligarchy who have seized power in America. I hope she does run against Pelosi and beats the socks off her! I am sick of “realists” in Congress who can’t bring themselves to act decisively on principle. Congress should pass a budget that sets a limit beyond which no funds except for redeployment would be voted. Force Bush to do what the American people want him to do! At the same time, impeach him and Cheney and throw them out of office.
Voting Democrat today is counterintuitive for the progressive/leftwing.Fear of splitting “the party” is how-DLC-banks on getting your vote. That-Mentality- got-Kucinich-to vote
Kerry,2004!
———
Think we are seeing the front for anew
representative/people’s party?
Perhaps it’s finally time to challenge the electoral.No longer vote Democrat.Put Green’s in the House and Senate.
Show the Democrats we won’t put up with them any longer.They can’t have our votes by default.
Hit hard.&Push limits Say,“Kucinich,change party or no support.”
2004,he defaulted and supported mainstream,DLC.
Stop backing Democrats simply because we are told it’s the only way we will be represented and that they’ll winseats.All we end up getting are Blue-Dogs-&-DLC.They haven’t represented liberals for decades.
Take the vote away.Call yourself progressive?Don’t back Democrats.Vote where you count!
Watch them come and talk to you.Today,they ignore
you.Tomorrow,weignore them.
There is provision in the Constitution for a military reaction, perhaps that is what it would take. Pelosi would probably a likely candidate as she is a republican posing as a democrat, cheating the people by conspiracy, of genuine democratic representation. Her interests are strictly corporate! As such she represents the Fascism that is or has overtaken the U.S.A.
There’s a lot that’s wrong with the war (on all fronts), there’s a lot wrong with how our government operates (and both parties share the blame) and there’s even a lot wrong with how our society and economy operate (and we ALL share the blame in that) - all of which desperately needs attention and corrective measures. However, (and I’d probably best don my flameproof suit) Ms. Sheehan isn’t a good representative of much of anything other than that some people really, desperately need some mental health care they’re not getting - and a close look at some of her comments help prove that (like her comment about Bush killing her son). Ms. Sheehan isn’t a visionary or a leader, she’s someone who’s publicly having great difficulty getting over the loss of her son (and yes, I know that’s painfully difficult under any circumstances) and who’s being taken advantage of by parties on all sides.
And anyone, who’s being disruptive and who refuses to leave ANYWHERE (and especially government buildings under the current circumstances) is deserving of arrest and removal - even Ms. Sheehan and her associates. Really, considering the political climate, I suppose she’s kind of lucky it went peacefully. But no sympathy from me for Ms. Sheehan or her associates over their arrests for refusal to leave upon request.
Why was Sheehan arrested and Bush and Cheney not?
Jaded Prole:
“I hope she had the chance to present the petitions to Conyer’s office staff.”
Yes, she presented the petitions directly to Conyers. I was there along with 400 others.
Conyers said that he would not introduce the articles, that there were not enough votes for it. He also said that the only way to “remove” Bush from office was to do so during the 2008 election. It was very disappointing.
I cannot even imagine what Ms. Sheehan has been through in losing a son. It is literally the worst thing that can happen to a mother. But it is obviously a great source of courage to her. She is fearless, which is where we all have to be if we are going to stop the empire. Impeachment will not end the military-industrial complex,or the power of the rich and their lackeys, the politicians. But it will keep the empire chasing its own tail for a while. It will further expose the contradictions of the system. And it will keep the lackeys busy spying on each other instead of us. The reality is that the rich, as well as the political establishment, are not a monolith. These people really do believe in the dog-eat-dog philosophy. Every one of them is out for themselves. As Thomas Pynchon once said, “No politician gives a shit about any life but his own.” If we turn them loose on each other, the job is half done. Pelosi is not going to sacrifice her own political career for the emperor. If we push hard enough even the sell-outs will go along for their own preservation.
I would like to suggest trying another angle - something I read on another post, earlier today, and it makes sense:
“We keep trying to persuade people to take action, but this continually leads no where, except to more disappointment and frustration…”
“There is ONE in Congress that has been working his tail off - doing all the things we want done - but he’s putdown by the press, and ignored by the public because the “propaganda” about him say he’s unelectable for President. According to whose agenda, I ask? Follow these statements and ask what is the motivation? …”
“When are we going to wise up and actually support someone who represents what we want and STOP giving all the attention to Pelosi, Conyers, etc.? Let them beg us to visit their offices! Let them beg us to support them in re-election. Turn your back on the Washington Wasteland…”
“… Visit Dennis Kucinich’s office - you’ll be welcomed and your words, heard - AND you won’t be arrested! Can you imagine what this groundswell of support for the author of the Bill to Impeach would look like? It would certainly have a better ‘flavor’ to it!”
“Get behind Dennis Kucinich and send the other senators and representatives, suckers with a tag that says “Yo - Sucker for Bush & Cheney. You want to talk to us? Come over to Kucinich’s office and chat!”
IMPEACH BUSH/CHENEY! They are only puppets put in place by Israel.
http://www.biblebelievers.org.au/bushlist.htm
They would be replaced with the same low quality AIPAC bribed henchmen that are in office now.
http://www.wrmea.com/archives/July_Aug_2004/0407027.html
Am I “Anti-semitic” NO, PRO TRUTH, YES……
Go Congresswoman Sheehan!
time4peace July 24th, 2007 6:48 pm
Kucinich?!Why?
Tell-Kucinich–“change party or no support.”
2004–he backed out and supported mainstream,DLC.
redux,2008:
“DETROIT, Michigan (CNN) — With the Democratic National Convention set to begin next week, U.S. Rep. Dennis Kucinich announced his support Thursday for Sen. John Kerry as the party’s presidential candidate, representatives for both Democrats said.
“The next critical step we must take is to help elect John Kerry as the next president of the United States,” Kucinich told reporters. “The word is unity. That is the operative word.”
http://www.cnn.com/2004/ALLPOLITICS/07/22/kucinich.kerry/index.html
lksafford and a few other posters have made cogent observations. But a number of posters are woefully ignorant of the heroic efforts of John Conyers following the Blackwell-Republican theft of the 2004 election in Ohio that stole the presidency for Bush. Nor do they seem aware of Conyers’ groundbreaking report that should have led straight to impeachment. I agree with those who believe we are targeting the wrong people. The Republican leaders in Congress are the ones to be striking against. Cindy Sheehan, for all courage and determination, has got it wrong. I cannot believe that, after Conyers met with her, that she and her people would do this. It makes no sense.
And what would the purpose be, at that late date, when Kucinich’s own losing is so obvious? His options at that point would have been to either remain a powerless outsider or inflict the greatest damage on his chief opponent.
Kucinich’s problems didn’t begin there — they ended there. They began when the DP primaries, whether cooked or honest, campaign donors, and corporate media marginalized him into public psychology “not electable”.
” When Sheehan and others arrived on Capitol Hill they were confronted by a number of backers of the war. One held a sign reading, “Patriots want victory in Iraq.” ”
There will be opposition.
300 showed up??? Only 300??? Where’s the people on this?? I am a Canadian located in Canada and I knew about this march.
I can see why they needed to get arrested, they were forced to, both sides, to try and become visible, because 300 is pretty much invisible, a blip.
The masses are still asleep. Sleepy widdle Murikan public. Asleep at the wheel of democracy and peace. GIVEN all the peaceful remedies possible. I wonder if they’ll wake up to use them or does it take wall-to-wall coverage of an “event” to get their attention? A peaceful “event” has to be large to get notice.
I am afraid that they’ll awaken with a start before long, once they realize that men, wearing clever masks, have taken over.
In teh USa the people who ask questions are arrested and the free people are in jail, while the corrupt and bought who take orders from their corporate masters are in Congresss , the White House and the Supreme Court.
In all others countries these people are caleed “Compradores” , here they are called “Honorable”.
go figure
go here:
http://www.cnn.com/ELECTION/2008/debates/scorecard/youtube.debate/
to vote for Dennis.
Let’s show some support for a non-monied candidate!
Paul Bramscher writes:
“…we need to engage, convince, activate, etc. our fellow American… lacking the money, our job is to get our fellow American engaged.
“Each of us should “work on” 5 new people, and get them to each work on 5 new people, etc. We need to encourage people to be active and engaged… If approached correctly, no insults are forthcoming″.
* Establish respect.
* Show humor. People are drawn to people having fun.
* Lead mainly by example, not by rhetoric.
* Never preach.
* When speaking, frame it in qualities your audience already understands.
* Never solicit for money because it’s pretty clear that this is a battle for heart & soul,
In general, there’s a joie de vivre out there which progressives too rarely tap into.”
[-’scuse my editing Paul]
Lovely stuff –good, intelligent insights, thankyou for your very PRACTICAL and postive help!
__________
Claudius wrote:
“I too have gotten into contentious discussions with conservatives and concluded that no matter how suave and sophisticated I present my case, it would take moving heaven and earth to get them to even listen… It is an area that often gets overlooked.
“…We are a divided country. Maybe it will take debate among the people since we are by no means monolithic in our political views. Either way, it is an uphill battle, but one worth fighting.”
Thanx Claudius, -an important issue you raised here:
You use the word *LISTENING*, and this is crucial in relationships (of any worth).
When one stops listening, there IS no useful relationship.
In my work (counselling / psychotherapy) or when teaching, it is crucial to LISTEN to people, I’ve often said ‘ears are the therapist’s main tools’.
I have worked with many people, (in many different areas), -and often with those I don’t have a natural (personal) affinity with.
What has rescued many situations has been my ability to at least LISTEN to folk,
** [Hint: people LIKE to be HEARD!] **
If they are being *heard* then they are then more likely -in turn- to listen to YOU!
Whoopee! –we now have a relationship cooking! (as opposed to just two beings just abusing / yelling at each other and getting nowhere).
If you don’t believe this works, just give it a try? - find someone you innately disagree with, and try just *listening* to what they have to say, (put your own ideas on the backburner till they’ve finished).
Maybe also ask questions, -points of clarification etc. Look for points of *unity* between your and their viewpoints.
Then ask if they would like to hear *your* point of view, and if so, tailor this so that you are being somewhat ‘real’ (phoniness is often picked up) but maybe slightly modify your words, - a bit of diplomacy and politeness is no bad thing here!
Bear in mind that you are seeking to WIN (not shove) them over!
godda go, –hope that helps a bit?
to: rob.price July 24th, 2007 6:59 pm
I do support Kucinich, and if you want an honest President you will too.
HOWEVER, the discussion here - is about IMPEACHMENT.
Going to Conyers gets you arrested. Kucinich should have the support of all Americans. He’s doing it for all of US! Maybe showing up at his office - in large numbers, 1000’s of supporters, would motive those THREE, that need to come forward. At least no one would worry about being arrested. It is a matter of positive reinforcement. We don’t have many that’s worthy of that in our government, at this time. Lets shine a little light on the ones that deserve our attention!
For arguments sake, let’s say Bush is the worst President to be elected to two terms of office. His indifference to the social needs of millions is appalling. His Iraq policy is filled with controversy. He is the poster boy for all that I
dislike my government to be. Still, Cindy acts like an impetuous child with her ” I want this now” campaign of meaningless activism. She wants to represent the fears we all share, but she scares me with her self -serving comments that don’t have any basis for LEGAL impeachment.
uncommon-dreams–
[chuckle] At this point if I must be subjected to the in-person ramblings of someone on the far “up” side of the spectrum (as I’ve indicated, I see it in terms of up vs. down, not left vs. right), and if I determine it to be hopeless, I usually fake a nod of agreement, and reply “That’s right!” I then change the subject and find something totally unrelated to politics that we agree on, to save respect.
But I do it in a way that leaves them, just slightly, wondering whether I was pulling their leg in mock-agreement.
There’s the long-lost art of the highly respected, but bullshitting, mountain-man in dire need of revival in our society. Others say that it’s the Fool’s traditional role in society (Parabola magazine ran an issue on this a year or two ago). Either way works, and allows the other side to save face.
Earthian July 24th, 2007 1:25 pm
“Cindy (and her fans),
Pleeeaaaaasse . . . don’t wait until the general election to run against Pelosi. Run a two-step race. Run against her as a Democrat in the Primary. Then if you don’t win, get on the Green Party ticket and run on their 2008 Progressive Platform against her in the general election for the House seat she currently disgraces.”
I agree that Cindy should run, but I don’t think that she can run in the general election as a Green if she runs and loses in the Democratic primary. Most states have “sore loser” laws that forbid this.
No significant social change has been made in the US without massive civil disobedience. Whether it was ending slavery, Women’s Right to vote, Workers Right to Organize, the Civil Rights movement of the sixties, or the Anti-Vietnam War Movement, it was, as Jesse Jackson once put it, “street heat” that brought victory. Cindy Sheehan is in the tradition of Nat Turner, Mother Jones, Harriet Beecher Stowe, Ida Wells, Father Berrigan, Joe Hill, and the countless others who have stood up against inhumane authority. We must follow her example and remain organized until we win peace and justice and economic equality. And even after that, we must remain active to insure there will be no regression. Long Live Cindy Sheehan!!!
I would love to build her website, even though I’m not local to her district. Still, there are all kinds of database technologies that can be harnessed for good. For example, I would love to help Cindy implement a system so that she votes exactly as her constituents want her to vote, with a majority rules. It would be very easy to do so, and to prevent vote stuffing: 1 vote per constituent.
Or, would you rather have the NS using dbases to spy on your every move?
time4peace July 24th, 2007 7:32 pm
HOWEVER, the discussion here - is about IMPEACHMENT.
My/mistake./
Guess/I’m/looking/to/the/bigger/picture/and/why/Conyers/
doesn’t/get/the/votes/he/says/he/needs/and/how/to/remedy-fix
the/bigger/problem//
Kucinich/2004/was/willing/to/go/with/the/program/like/most/progressive/when
they/voted/Kerry’04.
beside/’that/point,going/to/Conyers/and/not/Kucinich/is/because/Conyers/
can/get/the/issues/tabled/Dennis/can’t.He(Kucinich)/doesn’t/have/the/authority.
however,drawing/attention/to/Conyers/decision/not/to/table/the/discussion/doesn’t
hurt/the/process.And/all/it/took/was/40-50/arrests/to/make/it/public/knowledge/.
Going/to/Kucinich/would/to/discuss/terms/would/not/make/news.//The/point/is
to/make/waves/and/get/impeachment/up/on/the/frontpage//
——————————————-
sorry/for/forward-slash-use/abuse
space-key/is/jammed-broken!!
off/to/get/new/keyboard/soon—Arrgghh!
we have to be pretty desperate..as we are!.. to have HER as a spokesperson..acting (out) of her grief (not to be dismissed..i have it, too! But ye gods!!! I don’t have such delusions of grandeur as she~! (poor thing)
Delusions of grandeur?, have you checked out the state of mind of those in Washington lately, don’t blame it on Cindy.
We live in a make believe “democracy” where totalitarian system is labeled “democratic republic”. The billionaires in charge decide who will lead and what will happen, until/unless millions of us take to the streets or find someone to steadfastly rally behind.
This is a post we posted on SCIFRAUD but think it needs to be on commondreams. It is a story about journalism ethics, prostitution and Adminstration buying news coverage.
Cordially,
S. Ray DeRusse
www.bccmeteorites.com
_____________________________________________________________________________
Secret Service records raise new questions about discredited conservative reporter
By John Byrne| RAW STORY Editor
In what is unlikely to stem the controversy surrounding disgraced White House correspondent James Guckert, the Secret Service has furnished logs of the writer’s access to the White House after requests by two Democratic congressmembers.
The documents, obtained by Rep. Louise Slaughter (D-NY) and Rep. John Conyers (D-MI) through a Freedom of Information Act request, reveal Guckert had remarkable access to the White House. Though he wrote under the name Jeff Gannon, the records show that he applied with his real name.
Gannon’s ready access to President Bush and his work for a news agency that frequently plagiarized content from other reporters and tailored it to serve a conservative message may raise new questions about the White House’s attempts to seed favorable news coverage. Democrats have sought to paint Guckert in the context of other efforts by the Administration to “plant” positive spin by paying for video news releases and columnists to espouse their views.
Guckert made more than 200 appearances at the White House during his two-year tenure with the fledging conservative websites GOPUSA and Talon News, attending 155 of 196 White House press briefings. He had little to no previous journalism experience, previously worked as a male escort, and was refused a congressional press pass.
Perhaps more notable than the frequency of his attendance, however, is several distinct anomalies about his visits.
Guckert made more than two dozen excursions to the White House when there were no scheduled briefings. On many of these days, the Press Office held press gaggles aboard Air Force One–which raises questions about what Guckert was doing at the White House. On other days, the president held photo opportunities.
On at least fourteen occasions, Secret Service records show either the entry or exit time missing. Generally, the existing entry or exit times correlate with press conferences; on most of these days, the records show that Guckert checked in but was never processed out.
In March, 2003, Guckert left the White House twice on days he had never checked in with the Secret Service. Over the next 22 months, Guckert failed to check out with the Service on fourteen days. On several of these visits, Guckert either entered or exited by a different entry/exit point than his usual one. On one of these days, no briefing was held; on another, he checked in twice but failed to check out.
“I’d be worried if I was the White House and I knew that a reporter with a day pass never left,” one White House reporter told RAW STORY. “I’d wonder, where is he hiding? It seems like a security risk.”
Others who have covered the White House say not checking in or out with the Secret Service is unusual, especially in the wake of Sept. 11. The Secret Service declined to comment.
“We responded to the FOIA request and can provide no further information,” Service spokesman Jonathan Cherry said.
Guckert declined to comment, directing all questions to the Service.
The records furnished by the Service are unlikely to finally answer who approved Gannon’s “temporary” day passes into the presidential residence. The Service keeps a record of who approved passes only for the last sixty days; previous records are kept by the White House.
Since December 2004, all but one of Gannon’s forty-eight temporary appointments were requested by Lois Cassano, a White House Press Office media assistant. One additional request was made by Peter Watkins, a press assistant who now works as deputy press secretary to First Lady Laura Bush.
Guckert sometimes stayed for an extended period of time before and after press conferences, particularly early in his tenure. This was especially common during his first few months, when he might be in the White House for as long as six hours.
A White House reporter dismissed this as insignificant, noting that sometimes reporters stay between events.
“You could probably find people who stayed there for nine hours,” the reporter said.
Occasionally, the former Talon News reporter visited the White House twice on the same day. This was also most common in the early months.
The Secret Service furnished the records after a Freedom of Information Act request from Reps. John Conyers (D-MI) and Louise Slaughter (D-NY).
Guckert drew fire from liberals after asking a question of President Bush earlier this year in which he misquoted the Democratic Senate Minority Leader Harry Reid (D-NV). Investigative bloggers at Daily Kos and AmericaBlog.org discovered that Guckert owned male escort sites, and was himself a male prostitute.
The now-blogger has also been accused of lifting copy from press releases and other reporters.
A Massachusetts editor and reporter have accused Guckert of plagiarism , which RAW STORY reported in March. The watchdog Media Matters for America has also found that many of Guckert’s stories lifted directly from White House press releases.
Talon News, which shut down after the fracas over Gannon erupted, was self-avowedly Republican. Bobby Eberle, the site’s founder, told the Washington Post , “We make no bones about it: It’s a partisan site.”
In a February letter to President Bush, several Senate Democrats raised concern about Gannon in connection with what they believe is an attempt to “buy” coverage.
“The Gannon/Guckert affair is disturbing because of what we have recently learned about apparent efforts by some in your Administration to try to “buy” favorable news coverage,” the Democrats wrote. “These other efforts include paying news personalities … large sums of money to promote your Administration’s education and marriage initiatives, and using taxpayer dollars to produce video news releases promoting the new prescription drug benefit for Medicare beneficiaries and other policies the Administration regards as accomplishments.”
The Administration has defended such efforts, and has sought to downplay their significance.
______________________________________________________________________________
The first set of times for each date is Guckert’s login and logout. The second set is the briefing time. Research conducted by Raw Story researcher Muriel Kane. No briefing does not necessarily mean no briefing took place, only that none was scheduled by the White House press office. We have tried to make note of other briefings held on the dates there was no White House press briefing.
*ANALYSIS UPDATED — 12:24 A.M. Dates without briefings reduced to thirty.
2/25/03 11:46 - 1:25 (briefing 12:26-1:03)
2/26 9:56 - 2:17 (unusually long) (briefing 1:25-1:53)
2/27 11:49 - 1:34 (no briefing)
2/28 11:20 - 1:26 (briefing 12:35-1:10)
3/3/03 9:51 - 1:32 (unusually long) (briefing 12:21-1:00)
3/4 11:48 - 1:45 (briefing 12:46-1:20)
3/5 11:56 - 1:57 (briefing 12:21-1:00)
3/6 11:58 - 12:42 (no briefing)
3/6 9:11 pm exit - no entry (Bush press conference, 8 pm)
3/7 3:22 pm exit — no entry (briefing 2:20-3:00)
3/10 12:47 - 3:11 (briefing 1:23-2:10)
3/11 12:25 - 1:47 (briefing at 12:38 - no end time given)
3/12 12:55 - 2:40 (briefing 1:20-1:59)
3/13 12:12 - 1:55 (briefing 12:40-1:19)
3/14 12:02 - 1:49 (briefing 12:35-1:06)
3/17 12:01 - 1:30 (no briefing)
3/18 12:09 - 1:31 (briefing 12:21-1:05)
3/19 9:38 - 3:27 (unusually long) (12:15-12:59) (Bush speech, 10 pm)
3/20 12:19 - 1:38 (briefing 12:32-1:15)
3/21 10:52 - 12:31 (briefing 2:31-3:12 — doesn’t match)
3/24 1:02 - 2:43 (briefing 1:00-1:44)
3/25 1:45 - 3:30 (briefing 2:30-3:15)
3/28 12:34 - 3:51 (unusually long) (briefing 12:35-1:15)
4/4/03 12:18 - 1:31 (12:20-12:59)
4/9 1:48 - 3:48 (2:32-3:20)
4/10 12:14 - 2:00 (12:20-1:03)
4/11 12:24 - 1:52 (12:15-12:45) (arrives late)
4/14 12:34 - 1:46 (12:30-1:15) (arrives late)
4/21 3:33 - 4:19 (no briefing)
4/22 11:36 - 1:37 (12:30-1:14)
4/23 12:16 - 2:26 (1:17-1:55)
4/25 11:21 - 1:25 (12:19-1:00)
4/28 3:01 - 4:40 (11:08-11:23 — doesn’t match)
4/29 11:25 - 1:10 (12:23-12:58)
4/30 11:37 - 3:14 (unusually long) (12:32-1:19)
5/6/03 11:27 - 12:56 (11:50-12:30)
5/7 11:53 - 1:29 (12:30-1:10)
5/8 1:09 - 7:10 (unusually long) (1:45-2:26)
5/9 9:49 - 11:38 (no briefing)
5/14 12:02 - 1:47 (12:35-1:15)
5/14 5:15 pm - 6:56 pm (second evening visit)
5/15 12:27 - 2:25 (1:08-1:47)
5/16 12:05 - 1:40 (12:35-1:19)
5/20 12:27 - 2:04 (12:55-1:34)
5/27 11:56 - 1:31 (12:23-1:05)
5/28 11:50 - 12:53 (12:05-12:44)
5/28 3:26 - 4:53 (second visit)
5/29 11:42 - 1:43 (12:20-1:00)
6/10/03 12:13 - 1:19 (12:33-1:12)
6/17 12:29 - 1:41 (12:32-1:11)
6/18 12:16 - 1:42 (12:50-1:34)
6/22 3:32 - 4:49 (no briefing)
6/23 1:41 - 2:21 (no briefing)
6/25 12:16 - 1:01 (12:30-12:55)
6/26 11:32 - 12:35 (11:45-12:24)
7/1/03 11:25 - 1:42 (12:50-1:26)
7/2 11:50 - 1:20 (12:35-1:12)
7/3 3:04 - 4:16 (Condi Rice briefing, 3:40-4:10)
7/14 11:33 - 1:32 (Ari’s goodbye party) (12:03-12:56)
7/15 12:15 (no exit) (12:38-1:23)
7/16 12:26 - 2:05 (12:50-1:20)
7/17 4:43 - 6:13 (12:36-1:17 — doesn’t match)
7/22 12:23 - 1:53 (12:58-1:35)
7/23 12:21 - 2:23 (1:17-2:07)
7/25 2:08 - 3:30 (2:39-3:15)
7/27 3:08 - 5:24 (no briefing)
7/28 12:53 - 2:04 (briefing 10:12-10:23 — doesn’t match)
7/30 12:13 - 12:45 (no briefing) (Bush press conference earlier than that)
8/1/03 12:18 (no exit) (12:24-12:54)
8/1 12:39 - 1:20 (two sets of times if put together seem to match the briefing)
9/2/03 12:37 (A4 HC Entry Lane, no exit) (12:42-1:23)
9/3 12:10 - 1:18 (12:30-1:10)
9/10 12:17 - 1:32 (12:49-1:23)
9/16 12:23 - 1:59 (1:00-1:39)
9/17 12:12 - 1:55 (1:00-1:41)
9/22 1:54 - 3:06 (no briefing) (Bush meets with Iraqis, remarks end 4:35)
9/25 12:49 - 1:53 (12:48-1:35)
9/26 12:09 - 2:24 (12:36-1:15)
9/29 12:09 - 1:10 (12:18-1:03)
10/1/03 11:51 - 1:37 (12:44-1:30)
10/2 11:52 (no exit) (12:47-1:26)
10/6 12:58, 6:10 (no exit; checks in twice but doesn’t check out)
10/7 12:46 - 2:03 (12:58-1:46)
10/8 12:10 - 1:27 (12:16-12:42)
10/14 12:22 (no exit) (12:40-1:14)
10/27 12:32 - 1:33 (12:39-1:15)
10/28 10:54 - 12:22 (Bush press conference 11:15-12:03)
10/29 12:20 - 1:08 (12:20-12:57)
11/6/03 12:09 - 1:09 (12:35-1:04)
11/12 12:09 - 1:58 (1:10-1:47)
11/14 12:54 - 2:07 (1:36-2:00)
11/21 5:25 - 6:49 (no briefing)
11/24 8:49 - 9:43 (no briefing)
12/2/03 2:08 - 3:29 (no briefing)
12/3 12:03 - 1:11 (12:32-1:06)
12/7 3:25 (no exit - entry via A4 HC Entry Lane) (no briefing)
12/9 12:33 - 1:45 (12:55-1:21)
12/10 12:05 - 1:23 (12:35-1:15)
12/12 11:51 - 1:35 (12:15-12:52)
12/15 10:45 - 12:42 (Bush press conference 11:15-12:03)
12/18 12:44 - 2:28 (2:05-2:43)
12/19 12:21 - 12:56 (B4 Entry Lane 2) (12:30-12:50)
12/19 1:36 - 2:13 (second visit)
12/22 12:15 - 1:23 (12:28-1:01)
1/14/04 12:30 - 1:33 (12:41-1:15)
1/16 12:08 - 12:48 (12:11-12:44)
1/23 11:52 - 1:12 (12:33-1:06)
1/28 11:53 - 1:26 (12:50-1:20)
1/30 12:30 - 1:23 (12:37-1:09)
2/2/04 12:32 - 1:35 (12:48-1:28)
2/3 12:44 - 1:55 (12:54-1:20)
2/4 11:50 - 1:38 (12:56-1:36)
2/6 11:58 - 1:44 (Bush announcement 1:32-37)
2/10 11:50 - 1:55 (12:53-1:38)
2/11 11:57 - 1:09 (12:30-1:02)
2/13 12:07 - 1:08 (12:30-1:02)
2/18 12:04 - 1:29 (12:36-1:08)
2/19 12:05 - 1:30 (12:37-1:14)
2/20 12:32 - 1:29 (12:33-1:03)
2/23 12:55 - 1:17 (12:43-1:10) (arrives late)
2/24 12:06 - 1:52 (1:00-1:36)
2/27 1:55 - 3:39 (2:18-2:48)
3/1/04 12:50 - 2:04 (1:20-2:00)
3/2 12:29 - 1:23 (12:46-1:14)
3/9 12:40 - 1:49 (1:03-1:37)
3/12 12:54 - 1:00 (unusually short) (no briefing)
3/16 12:43 - 1:52 (1:10-1:46)
3/17 12:18 - 1:56 (1:26-1:50)
3/22 12:03 - 2:10 (1:24-2:04)
3/23 12:03 - 1:34 (12:47-1:10)
3/24 12:17 - 2:03 (1:10-2:02)
3/30 exit only, 12:04 (no briefing)
3/30 4:22 - 4:55 (no briefing)
4/1/04 12:42 - 1:57 (1:25-1:53)
4/13 9:42 - 10:29 (no briefing) (Bush speaks to reporters on the WH lawn)
4/13 6:59 pm - 9:49 pm (Bush press conference)
4/16 10:51 - 3:08 (2:41-3:09) (Bush/Blair press conference)
4/21 12:14 - 1:00 (12:31-1:00)
4/27 12:10 (no exit, entry via A4 HC Entry Lane instead of Entry Lane 2) (12:27-12:59)
4/28 12:26 - 1:47 (1:20-1:47)
4/29 11:10 no exit (well before briefing) (Bush and Cheney testify to 9/11 commission)
4/29 2:15 - 2:57 (2:23-2:56)
4/30 1:24 - 2:47 (2:22-2:45)
5/5/04 12:02 - 2:25 (1:38-2:16) (arrives unusually early)
5/6 12:01 - 3:35 (12:20-12:54) (stays unusually late)
5/10 1:22 - 2:50 (2:02-2:33)
5/12 11:56 - 1:03 (12:34-12:55)
5/24 no entry, exit logged twice, 2:04:43 and 2:04:51 (1:14-1:46)
5/26 12:09 - 1:51 (1:15-1:51)
5/28 2:17 - no exit (3:02-3:34)
6/1/04 9:20 - 12:03 (Condi Rice briefing, 9:45)
6/3 9:02 - 10:32 (no briefing)
6/14 10:02 - 11:45 (no briefing)
6/15 11:03 - no exit (2:25-2:52) (there well before briefing)
6/15 5:19 - 6:38 (B4 Exit Lane instead of usual A4 Exit Reader) (after briefing)
(Bush and Karzai in Press Availability)
6/16 2:50 - 4:34 (no briefing)
6/17 11:57 - 1:25 (12:47-1:20)
6/21 9:27 - 10:03 (no briefing)
6/22 12:13 - 5:04 (unusually long) (Al Gonzales briefing, 3:12-4:55)
6/24 1:27 - 2:13 (Condi Rice briefing, 1:51-2:03)
6/30 12:21 - 1:55 (1:15-1:55)
7/1/04 12:22 - 1:36 (1:01-1:37)
7/2 9:43 - 11:53 (no briefing)
7/6 12:15 - 12:58 (12:33-12:48)
7/8 1:07 - 2:21 (1:53-2:22)
7/15 12:48 - 1:48 (12:54-1:23)
7/19 1:04 - 2:24 (1:52-2:22)
7/21 12:22 - 2:02 (1:10-1:40)
7/22 10:11 - 10:47 (no briefing)
7/29 6:03 - 6:21 (no briefing)
8/2/04 10:59 - 1:47 (1:02-1:39) (there 2 hours early)
8/9 12:07 - 1:03 (12:31-12:59)
8/17 11:06 - 12:31 (no briefing)
8/27 9:10 - 9:37 (no briefing)
9/10/04 11:19 - 12:55 (no briefing)
9/15 12:17 - 1:56 (1:11-1:45)
9/22 11:57 - 12:34 (no briefing)
9/23 11:19 - 1:14 (Bush press conference with Allawi)
11/2/04 1:31 - 2:20 (no briefing) (Election Day)
11/4 9:16 - 12:11 (Bush press conference 11:17-11:57)
11/8 11:50 - 1:08 (12:20-12:52)
11/10 12:35 - 12:58 (12:26-12:45) (arrives late)
11/12 10:57 — no exit (Bush press conference with Blair)
11/16 12:26 - 1:51 (12:20-1:32) (arrives late)
11/17 12:07 - 2:14 (12:38-1:10)
11/29 12:23 - 1:49 (12:56-1:32)
12/6/04 12:37 - 1:59 (1:03-1:36)
12/8 12:07 - 1:41 (1:05-1:39)
12/10 12:32 - 1:51 (1:06-1:32)
12/13 12:18 - 1:36 (12:50-1:18)
12/14 12:46 - 1:53 (12:48-1:23)
12/17 12:16 - 1:48 (12:47-1:14)
12/20 10:05 - 11:49 (Bush press conference, 10:32-11:25)
12/21 12:00 - 2:04 (12:35-1:10)
12/22 12:04 - 1:08 (no briefing)
12/23 12:31 - 1:26 (no briefing)
1/18/05 12:05 - 1:36 (12:28-12:57)
1/19 12:26 - 1:38 (12:48-1:19)
1/25 12:19 - 1:04 (12:23-12:53)
1/26 9:54 - 10:56 (Bush press conference, 10:00-10:47)
1/31 12:27 - 1:24 (12:45-1:16)
2/1/05 12:11 no exit (12:18-12:47)
2/7 12:10 - 3:00 (1:45-1:06)
Correction: The first edition of this article incorrectly referred to “presidential briefings,” instead of “White House press briefings.” As our research continues, we will update the date log listing to reflect additional briefings other than White House press briefings held on dates Guckert visited.
Article originally published Apr. 24, 2005.
_________________________________________________________
Cordially,
S. Ray DeRusse
www.bccmeteorites.com
arrest me now and water-board me
VA Green writes about ’sore loser laws’ in elections.
I am not conversant with the technicalities of US elections, but didn’t Joe Lieberman successfully retain his Senate seat as an independent Democrat after missing out in the Democrat primaries?
What is to prevent Cindy Sheehan following a similar strategy?
” Well behaved women rarely make history.” Cindy, this vet Thanks You for having the courage.
I don’t know what the answer is…but I sure know what the question is….”Who the F++K is driving this bus?” ((and yes…I jumped out a window and ran from it a long time ago.)) I’d rather walk than be part of this train wreck.
sign me…not amused, but wide awake.
madame speaker, condi, hillary and coulter can go fvk themselves. this is a REAL woman addressing REAL issues. too bad murdoch inc. doesnt have the balls to show this women in a positive light.
Cindy you are in my thoughts!
Semper Fi…..
Cindi Sheehan is addressing real issues. But she should be doing her sit-ins in the offices of the members of Congress who are doing the stonewalling. Her problem is that they won’t let her and her people in the way Conyers did. Aside from disrupting the work in his office, they sat in the outer hallway so that the building’s security people would be certain to call the police. This isn’t the first time Sheehan has set her people up for being arrested. But it is the first time that she’s put it on the doorstep of the wrong man.
WHERE IS OSAMA BIN LADEN????????????????????????
When the people fear their government, there is tyranny; when the government fears the people, there is liberty.
Thomas Jefferson
Where has the LIBERTY gone? Into the pockets of the rich people…
Conyers is not what he seems.
Conyers has been acting as a conduit for people who want to impeach for the democratic party and to try and place himslef in a position of power but not by impeaching.
Conyers has had notyhing prepared before the last election even while always stndign in front of anti wr demonstrators promising impeqachment as soon as democrats win.
His first Bill had nothing at all to do with Bush impeachment, Iraq war, or even the h=rse and pony show over Gonzalerz and the Judges.
When interviewed directly after the election , two days later, he was right back in the Black Caucus kiss ass bunch looking for welfare handouts for his constitunecy.
This man is deadly afraid of Pelosi and the GOP because of his own skeletons in closet. Go to Congressional record and read wht he says in Amendeded sppechs and then look at how he votes very contradictory and when pressed he always quotes his Congressinal Records speeches.
Conyers is playing the same politcal games as the Demos agreed to with Clinoton put a spokesman in place and let him diffuse and delay the righteous anger of popualce.
Conyers showed his true stripes when he did not stand with those who came to visit him and also get arrested.
Not even one of his staff members, the laziest bunch of staffers and hardest party crowd in DC. One of most stuck up groups who act as if they rule the roost and are the eptimone of Black Culture in US.
Conyers is a consumate politico who knows th4r game real well and he is not going to stand for anything that could harm his chances of relection.
Rmember the Demo party can delay his funding as they did to a
Washington State female Senator Smith until just four days before the actual election so a Republican could win or their favored Demo in the primary. Going against an incumbent of their own party because she said they were more interested in campaign funds than Legislating.
Conyers is a
Demo whimp and has always been so.
W@e need people of a strong character not more Conyers.
Cindy should know her friends from her enemies by now.
Conyers is no friend.
Is Cindy still going to NYC, then to Jordan? Why ???!!!! Someone in DC needs to out the gov’t infiltraitors and prove to Cindy and Co that the logical course of action is to stay in DC.
Don’t let Congress go on vacation!
i don’t know the medium age for most the posters here, but I’m willing to bet there are a few here that remember Daly Square in Chicago,1968, Democratic Convention, Me thinks there’s going to be a repeat of history concerning the control for the Democratic Party, in 2008.
I busted the nuts of one Dalys finest that day and received my come en uppance for my pugnacious,were just about there again, does the public have the balls to display their dissatisfaction once again? with the establishment? we shall see what we see.
PELOSI the right wings bladder bag, Time for her to go, along with Reid.
How can we beat Karl Rove at his own game?
In response to a couple of posts regarding A) the fact that Sheehan is no visionary leader, and B) the Dems should stop fighting amongst themselves…
I agree that Cindy is not scholarly in the ways of the law or even all that effective of a communicator. However, what most of us believe will benefit the country most right now is some honesty and some compassion for the working class. Cindy seems to have those.
I also agree she should have been arrested, as she openly acknowledged going in. Small price to pay as far as protest goes…
As for democratic in fighting, it’s precisely the fictitious belief that the Democrats are the opposition party to the Republicans in this country that have allowed for both party’s success and control. It’s the standard good cop bad cop routine, at least some of us believe.
It’s time to put policy in front of party. Both parties seem to be equally elitist and suppressive if not oppressive.
Thank you marctileston, although the end of your post would be more accurate as suppressive and oppressive.
Yes nightslider, I remember Daly Square in 1968. It was shocking to see police beating and clubbing demonstrators. They just charged right into the crowd. And I think ever since the Kent State murders by the National Guard the American public has been afraid of the government. There wasn’t a public uprising of outrage. The majority of people said “Serves them right. Now maybe they will stop”.
Thank you colbalt for your quote.
When the people fear their government, there is tyranny; when the government fears the people, there is liberty.
Thomas Jefferson
I wish Cindy well, although frankly at the rate things are going with Dictator Bush I don’t think there is going to be an election in 2008 in order for Cindy to have the opportunity to be elected.
With the Dems’ help since 2000, the illegitimate Bush regime has been installing a dictatorship. Bush has all but unofficially dissolved congress already. He has made them irrelevant and of course the congress has been complicit in this. Why would Rove/Cheney/Bush install a dictatorship and then up and leave in 2009? That’s why I don’t think they have any plans of going anywhere in 2009. Period.
Some people who are still drinking the Dems’ koolaid are chanting to get more (useless, Bush-helping) Dems in congress in 2008 as if anything would change if there were more Dems. This is the same wishful-thinking delusional garbage I heard before the 2006 election. I knew then nothing would change by putting more Dems in because I had observed the Dems’ Bush-enabling since 2000, and surprise, surprise, NOTHING has changed. Imagine that!
Now of course the Dems’ apologists and excuse makers trot out the “you have to give them tiiiiiiiiiiime” card. Yeah right. How much time are you talking about? Answer that question. Mind you, when the Repugs are in the minority or the majority you don’t have to give them tiiiiiiiiiiime. They get their agenda through congress regardless of whether they are in the minority or the majority. They supporters don’t have to resort to making excuse after excuse for them the way the pathetic Dem supporters are STILL doing to this day. When will you folks stop drinking the Dems’ koolaid and realise who and what the Dems really are? They are and have been part of and complicit with the Bush regime. They are pro-Bush, pro-war, pro-corporate and pro-imperalistic just like the Repugs, despite their posturing, charades and theatre to the contrary on occasion.
What Conyers did is repugnant and reprehensible. He says they don’t have the votes for impeachment. Well, as I understand it, it was said that they didn’t have the votes to impeach Nixon either but as the impeachment process unfolded they got the votes.
Regardless, impeachment is not about to happen. The Bush-enabling Dems are not about to impeach the two guys they have been enabling (with their “yes” votes, their complicity and their silence) since 2000. They are not about to impeach one of their “own.”
You are an inspiration Cindy. We watch in Australia while our corrupt administration supports your corrupt administration and we see both crumbling under the weight of their own lies and the light shone on their disgusting conduct by the like of you. Thankyou,
Speaking of attention whores, how about those activists who resent the attention that Sheehan receives? Like it or not, some are just natural leaders–often emerging in heed of the times–and people follow. It is the way it is. Thank our lucky stars for the leaders among us.
And anyone who whines about her being in the limelight–let me tell you, it is NOT a pleasant place to be–she gets it from all sides for rocking the boat–and her life is at risk. I saw her surrounded by violent bullies yesterday.
Jesus Christ, all you hear is this frustration about the futility and then when someone stands up and shuts we knock them down as an “attention whore”?
Disgusting.
I’ve never seen Cindy speak, etc. so I can’t comment one way or the other. But we should all keep in mind, very critically, that the corporate media “selects” leaders, it is very picky about who is allowed through the airtime sieve.
It selected, for instance, “Hanoi” Jane Fonda during Vietnam (which is starting to look more like a False Flag to discredit the entire movement). And while the extreme agony/anguish/vocal protesting by Cindy is — beyond any doubt — a wake-up call to compassion, it is not leadership in the sense of mobilizing Middle America onto a correction course in D.C., nor should we fall into the media trap of tragedy=hero. Let the progressive blogs speak. And they seem to be accepting of Cindy, so that’s a very good sign.
My idea of a leader isn’t a protestor — but someone who does, by example, something that catches on like wildfire, people follow naturally, they need little or no convincing. I’m unsure we have people like this today or — if we did — they’d even be interested in politics.
It’s important for Cindy to step very carefully, since she’s become a public icon in the movement for many. The only advice I could give would be to NOT stop, and to translate her grief into positive compassion for the civilians and combatants (on all sides of the conflict). My own motivation as a progressive populist, while often angry in verbiage, is not ultimately rooted in anger, protest, etc. But rather love of the good things in life. For me, there’s nothing better than sitting around my gardens with a beer.
I posted this idea on another message board and am curious to see what everyone thinks. I have read all the threads and it seems to me that we can do one of two things. We can keep expressing our outrage, frustration, and political concerns on this messageboard. Or we can do this: clearly the vast majority of us are fed up with the Republicans, Democrats, and most of all, the Bush Administration. And we have made this abundantly clear to each other through intelligent discourse. Here is my thought: we organize into small teams. Each team will have a responsibility. For example, the naysayers who paint the gloom and doom picture for everyone should get out amidst the public, hype that view, and hook it on the Republicans. Those of us who still have faith in the Democratic Party should work closely with the Party to encourage its members to pass legislation changing the status quo. For those of us who want to see a third party and radical change, we should work diligently to push for change through grassroots efforts, form alliances with other grassroots organizations to get the word out, stay on top of the protest schedule in various cities and inform each other of when and where they will take place. Each team will have a captain, and once a week, everyone will report their progress. This might seem like an exercise in futility, but it is not. WE are taking an ACTIVE role by maximizing our resources, expanding our base, and getting the word out that the status quo no longer is acceptable. Your thoughts or suggestions on this???
Conyers talks with iron resolve, but put a fire under his ass and he melts like butter.
What is leadership?
In our society today we think leadership is an appointed position granted by someone of high rank to a minion who will adminiser thier policys.
Your Boss may not be a leader but he is your administrator and you have to do as he says.
WE all know of people placed in those positions and the more stringent the work rules are the less real leadership is needed.
Leadership comes from individuals who react in ways that do not always conform to an established system, can find ways to get around restrictions and improve and inspire followers by examples not always able to be printed on paper.
Why do the GOp beleivers look towards Regan bush I and present Bush as great leaders/
They were and are indeed great leaders because they work by allowing delegates to have an almost free reign when assigned a task by any innovative methods they can.
they delegate to people who in the main do indeed have leadership qualities, those who can inspire folowers to join in the programs.
Even men like Rumsfeld carried a lot of weight because of those followers who beleived in him and acted in a common cause.
Karl Rove is nto just an ingenious player in politics because he knows the rules he makes breaks the rules and rulemakers and has a strong cadre of beleivers in him and his views and that is indeed power of leadership.
It does not mean it is in best interest of humanity is done by those leaders, we know historys bad guys, and sometimes it takes a few filures before thier r4eal talent in leadership becomes obvious but such is Sheehan today.
It is her ideals and her own personna and character that make so many want to see her succeed.
A great leader does not need a majority of populace or a large army to rule,for the peopel will rule themselves in his model; in fact it is the worst of rulers who need more administraors and largest Armys to enforce its rule to keep such leaders hidden from view.
I continue to admire and support Cindy, and am sorry to find that Conyers is now proved to be just another dog in the Democratic leadership’s dog-and-pony show.
I suppose the Lesser-Evilist Democratic progressives (pardon the oxymoron), who are so ready to denounce Cindy as an erratic amateur, will rationalize Conyers’ treatment of the activists who occupied his office. But aren’t these the same people who assured skeptics that politicians like Conyers were keeping their powder dry until the time was ripe to launch a desperately-needed assault against the criminal Executive Branch?
Someone upthread suggested that activists invading the hallowed halls of Congress are typically received with open scorn– they’re a joke. (I paraphrase, since I don’t have time to retrieve and copy the comment.) The writer was trying to be helpful, suggesting that activists might need to find a more successful approach. Perhaps. But I think that it’s telling to suggest that low-level flacks and staffers see themselves as responsible and virtuous, while activists are viewed as misguided fools imbued with madness or badness.
I’d rather cheer Cindy on in her fool’s errand than revel in the rottenness of the political “game”, as the Lesser-Evilists implicitly recommend.
Why is everyone asking where Osama is? He’s hanging out with the CIA! Can no one see that 9/11 was a scam? Once you understand that Al Qaeda did not attack the US on 9/11, you will see why no one is looking for them. Follow the facts. Its a tough thing to overcome, but it will lead to the impeachment you seek.
Now go ahead and flame me….
Conyers likes to pretend he’s part of the choir.It’s time for a Michigander with ITEGRITY to challenge him. Go Cindy, I will contribute to your campaign. I feel certain that you will not go over to the Dark Side when you get to DC.
So Pelosi wants to end the war… well one of the most effective ways to end the war would be to Impeach Bush and Cheney… then she’s be temporary president and could end the war and bring the troops home… but the reality is that she’s in bed with the same people as all the other corrupt bastards in DC. She must have been promised something tasty when BushCo seizes power next year due to some false flag operation and the US becomes officially a Fascist dictatorship… It’s ALMOST there… they just need one or two small pieces of the puzzle to do yet. That’s why impeachment NOW is so important. Soon, that will no longer be an option. You poor dumb fuck Americans.
Someone wrote, “those th