The Next Global Nuclear Race – About to Begin
One reason I’ve always said that our leadership needed global expertise is that without it they can’t see the storm coming – that is what caught them flat footed on 9 11 (that and failing to listen to those who did see it coming and take action --like firing missiles when that August 6 memo turned up that Al Qaida was planning an immient strike on the U.S.).
North Korea’s centrifuge technology to enrich uranium came from Pakistan, before Dr. Khan was booted in 2004. By then he had visited 18 countries~!
So we are looking at the prospects of a second nuclear race –this time among regional powers.
Our leadership can avoid this but hasn’t. That is the challenge we face. If we screw up and let countries from Syria to Nigeria go nuclear, we end up with less security from terrorists who can gain access to fuel from that many more sources globally.
We need to reform the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) of its so-called “Atoms for Peace” that has created these baby nuke powers that could grow into serious threats as Sunni Saudi Arabia and Egypt decide to go nuclear to counter Shitte Iran, South Korea and Japan do the same, etc.
We need to see that IAEA ends its “Atoms for Peace” program….it is inconsistent for the same agency to both prevent and promote nuclear technology at the same time! Where is the U.S. on this? Check out this article on how to deal with North Korea...
Sunday, October 15, 2006
Saturday, October 14, 2006
A "third way" for Iraq?
Polls have arrived in Iraq, so we can gauge how Iraqis feel about issues. In a recent one 75% said it was time for U.S. and foreign troops to go. They felt that the presence of the troops was now contributing to the violence.
If we are a democracy that listens to the majority, then why isn’t anyone listening to what the ordinary Iraqis think? After all, it is they that are paying the price, and will pay the price in the future. Former Sec. of State James Baker is said to be working on a "third way" to deal with Iraq, which has cost nearly a half trillion dollars so far. But the question begging to be answered is: Why not listen to the Iraqi majority? Isn't that following democracy instead of dictating to them?
If we are a democracy that listens to the majority, then why isn’t anyone listening to what the ordinary Iraqis think? After all, it is they that are paying the price, and will pay the price in the future. Former Sec. of State James Baker is said to be working on a "third way" to deal with Iraq, which has cost nearly a half trillion dollars so far. But the question begging to be answered is: Why not listen to the Iraqi majority? Isn't that following democracy instead of dictating to them?
Thursday, October 12, 2006
NY Plane Crash - N Korea
I was calling a local radio station yesterday about the Governor’s race after Democrat Chris Bell had asked independent Kinky Friedman to “drop out” which is something I disagree with--the more candidates the better. That was when I heard the news about the plane flying into a New York building. Although it reminded people of 9 11 it wasn’t, but it is a warning.
It was not terrorism but shows how easy it could have been one.
The real mystery is why a private plane would be allowed to fly so low and close to Manhattan after 9 11 -- and why it went out of control with Yankee pitcher Cory Lidle at the controls.
His plane has a parachute which can be used in an emergency, but wasn’t. As a pilot, it is hard to say that pilot error was not involved. As a counter – terrorism advisor, I think it shows that Homeland Security has got some major holes yet. Pack a small plane with military explosive and it would have been a major event.
I have more info on what went wrong with North Korea. Unfortunately, the nuke threat is increasing, not decreasing. The Bush administration act in cutting oil supplies to a desperate Kim Jung Il in 2002 pushed the wrong buttons – instead of keeping him from developing his nukes, it pushed him further toward development, exactly the opposite of what our geniuses in DC intended…now they want to sanction North Korea, which has nothing left to lose. Kim's people are starving but our attacking him will only increase his domestic support - people always rally around a leader when their country is threatened. We need some smart answers this time..
Again I say, bring in James Baker along with former President Carter who has met Kim Jung Il, and knows his character better than those who are operating in the dark…This is no time to make false assumptions like those made prior to invading Iraq. Unlike Saddam, Kim has missiles and could kill a million South Koreans in 30 minutes if we do something stupid…(like dropping a bomb on North Korea).
It was not terrorism but shows how easy it could have been one.
The real mystery is why a private plane would be allowed to fly so low and close to Manhattan after 9 11 -- and why it went out of control with Yankee pitcher Cory Lidle at the controls.
His plane has a parachute which can be used in an emergency, but wasn’t. As a pilot, it is hard to say that pilot error was not involved. As a counter – terrorism advisor, I think it shows that Homeland Security has got some major holes yet. Pack a small plane with military explosive and it would have been a major event.
I have more info on what went wrong with North Korea. Unfortunately, the nuke threat is increasing, not decreasing. The Bush administration act in cutting oil supplies to a desperate Kim Jung Il in 2002 pushed the wrong buttons – instead of keeping him from developing his nukes, it pushed him further toward development, exactly the opposite of what our geniuses in DC intended…now they want to sanction North Korea, which has nothing left to lose. Kim's people are starving but our attacking him will only increase his domestic support - people always rally around a leader when their country is threatened. We need some smart answers this time..
Again I say, bring in James Baker along with former President Carter who has met Kim Jung Il, and knows his character better than those who are operating in the dark…This is no time to make false assumptions like those made prior to invading Iraq. Unlike Saddam, Kim has missiles and could kill a million South Koreans in 30 minutes if we do something stupid…(like dropping a bomb on North Korea).
Monday, October 09, 2006
North Korea's Nuke Test - a U.S. Fumble
North Korea’s Nuke Test
I have said for years that we would not prevent North Korea from becoming nuclear by NOT talking to them. The policy of not talking just failed with North Korea’s nuke test.
Prior dialogue in talks between the U.S. and North Korea could have delayed or even avoided it. Now the genie is out of the bottle.
Our leadership needs to learn talk to our global neighbors to address these issues. Had we done so before this test, the U.S. would have had greater influence. Now it has less.
Diplomacy and dialogue were things people by former Secretary of State James Baker knew how to do—and had the world on our side.
That was also the great hallmark of the President’s father, George H.W. Bush, a man of the world who was a statesman who would talk to everyone in the pursuit of global solutions to difficult issues.
So far, it has been missing in this administration. Unless it changes soon, the legacy for Bush 43 will not be a pleasant one.
In a nuclear world, we cannot afford party loyalty above mistakes and failures to communicate…because those can be deadly mistakes.
Too many mistakes have been made already, and Iraq could be a failed state as a result. We don’t need more mistakes with Iran and North Korea. Anyone remember the result of the last Korean war?
Or the fact that our entire army is now in Iraq… (bombing N. Korea would get tens of thousands of South Koreans killed since they live within artillery range of N. Korea, so that is not a real option).
I wish we had people like Jim Baker and Bush 41 and Bill Clinton running things now.
I was on Fox TV Houston in 1998 when Clinton shot missiles into Afghanistan right after one of our African embassies was bombed by Al Qaida. If Bush 43 had done the same --shooting missiles at bin laden’s camp in Afghanistan and following up on an FBI’s agents warning on Mr. Atta, et al. in flight training schools after getting the August warning –and done it by September 10 --then 9 11 may have been cancelled and never would have happened.
We can’t afford any more mistakes by our leadership in this global nuclear age, including leaving child predators in Congress whose attentions are misguided… Another great opportunity was missed with North Korea by this administration. Americans will pay a high price as a result...(Note: PLEASE LET JIM BAKER HAVE RUMSFELD'S job --TODAY). AND - Start talking to Iran, make America the global good guy (it should be) instead of the country run by arrogant tin ears like Rumsfeld who get their facts wrong. We have over 20,000 service members wounded from IED's made by ammo from all the stockpiles of known weapons Saddam had -no one guarded them during the invasion because Rumsfeld had too few troops to secure them or even the Iraqi nuclear plant. His mistakes have wrecked a lot of lives..!
I have said for years that we would not prevent North Korea from becoming nuclear by NOT talking to them. The policy of not talking just failed with North Korea’s nuke test.
Prior dialogue in talks between the U.S. and North Korea could have delayed or even avoided it. Now the genie is out of the bottle.
Our leadership needs to learn talk to our global neighbors to address these issues. Had we done so before this test, the U.S. would have had greater influence. Now it has less.
Diplomacy and dialogue were things people by former Secretary of State James Baker knew how to do—and had the world on our side.
That was also the great hallmark of the President’s father, George H.W. Bush, a man of the world who was a statesman who would talk to everyone in the pursuit of global solutions to difficult issues.
So far, it has been missing in this administration. Unless it changes soon, the legacy for Bush 43 will not be a pleasant one.
In a nuclear world, we cannot afford party loyalty above mistakes and failures to communicate…because those can be deadly mistakes.
Too many mistakes have been made already, and Iraq could be a failed state as a result. We don’t need more mistakes with Iran and North Korea. Anyone remember the result of the last Korean war?
Or the fact that our entire army is now in Iraq… (bombing N. Korea would get tens of thousands of South Koreans killed since they live within artillery range of N. Korea, so that is not a real option).
I wish we had people like Jim Baker and Bush 41 and Bill Clinton running things now.
I was on Fox TV Houston in 1998 when Clinton shot missiles into Afghanistan right after one of our African embassies was bombed by Al Qaida. If Bush 43 had done the same --shooting missiles at bin laden’s camp in Afghanistan and following up on an FBI’s agents warning on Mr. Atta, et al. in flight training schools after getting the August warning –and done it by September 10 --then 9 11 may have been cancelled and never would have happened.
We can’t afford any more mistakes by our leadership in this global nuclear age, including leaving child predators in Congress whose attentions are misguided… Another great opportunity was missed with North Korea by this administration. Americans will pay a high price as a result...(Note: PLEASE LET JIM BAKER HAVE RUMSFELD'S job --TODAY). AND - Start talking to Iran, make America the global good guy (it should be) instead of the country run by arrogant tin ears like Rumsfeld who get their facts wrong. We have over 20,000 service members wounded from IED's made by ammo from all the stockpiles of known weapons Saddam had -no one guarded them during the invasion because Rumsfeld had too few troops to secure them or even the Iraqi nuclear plant. His mistakes have wrecked a lot of lives..!
Thursday, October 05, 2006
A New Technology to Protect People and their Pets ..
Many of you know of my time doing TV analysis on terrorism.
About the time Henri started getting sick, I discovered a new technology that will protect ordinary people. For over 30 years I have worked with technology around the world from Fortune 500 companies to entrepreneurs. This one got my attention like no other.
It is a solar film that will make windows hurricane proof and keeps glass from flying all over your home or office. It costs not much more than regular solar film which does not offer that protection. It also comes in clear if you already have solar tinting.
I think of it as something that will protect people, our records, computer systems and animal pets since most people are more likely to be ravaged by a hurricane force wind than a human terrorist attack.
But the technology can be used for that also. A stronger version of the film will keep a 9 mm shot as close a 15 feet from penetrating the window in recent tests. They even used an AK-47 on it with thick glass -- and the bullets were stopped.
I want to do something that does more on the private sector to protect people. Running for Congress was an attempt to do that on a public level. I stuck with it until a corrupt incumbent left office (who was the Majority leader when Rep. M. Foley was going after male underage pages). This new technology has set me on a new course. I’ll be posting info on the web site soon. There is an email link on the website if you what any details.
This also gives me a new focus after losing our Henri, who was with me during four Congress campaigns and during the period I had a home office…
About the time Henri started getting sick, I discovered a new technology that will protect ordinary people. For over 30 years I have worked with technology around the world from Fortune 500 companies to entrepreneurs. This one got my attention like no other.
It is a solar film that will make windows hurricane proof and keeps glass from flying all over your home or office. It costs not much more than regular solar film which does not offer that protection. It also comes in clear if you already have solar tinting.
I think of it as something that will protect people, our records, computer systems and animal pets since most people are more likely to be ravaged by a hurricane force wind than a human terrorist attack.
But the technology can be used for that also. A stronger version of the film will keep a 9 mm shot as close a 15 feet from penetrating the window in recent tests. They even used an AK-47 on it with thick glass -- and the bullets were stopped.
I want to do something that does more on the private sector to protect people. Running for Congress was an attempt to do that on a public level. I stuck with it until a corrupt incumbent left office (who was the Majority leader when Rep. M. Foley was going after male underage pages). This new technology has set me on a new course. I’ll be posting info on the web site soon. There is an email link on the website if you what any details.
This also gives me a new focus after losing our Henri, who was with me during four Congress campaigns and during the period I had a home office…
Sunday, October 01, 2006
Obit for Henri
Henri with buddy Louis XIV
Henri Masquelette-Fjetland, 6, died of Lymphoma after a valiant fight on September 27, 2006. He is survived by his human mom and dad, Laura E. Masquelette and Michael Fjetland, sister dog Lexie, male cat friend Louis XIV and his female cat nemesis, Fleur de Lis, a.k.a. Petite Minou.
Henri was a lost puppy who came into our life July of 1999. Named after a federal judge who was single-minded in his devotion to the law, Henri knew what he wanted. He served with distinction as the official alpha leader of the guard dog team during many legal and political adventures. He also was his dad’s shadow who would run off with a pair of shoes or newspaper to use as barter for kitty food. If you didn’t notice, he’d shake the item until you did. He ate the antique french couches as a puppy and mom’s bamboo knitting needles as an adult and used up at least three lives from prior close encounters. Henri had a rough start in life with little food and abandonment issues, but became a loving, kind friend who loved to eat anything (including Lexie’s food). He would open doors to go outside or, in the end, to sit in the van whenever he needed to see his favorite doctors.
Henri will be missed by his surviving family, and many friends, including the Christian Legal Society at the Thurgood Marshall School of Law and the Daughters of the King at St. Francis Episcopal Church, Houston. Special thanks to his doctors and staff at the Greenway Animal Clinic, Gulf Coast Veterinary Specialists, and Gulf Coast Emergency Clinic. Contributions in honor of Henri’s life may be sent to Gulf Coast Veterinary Foundation, Inc., St. Francis Episcopal Church, or the charity of your choice.
Wednesday, September 27, 2006
In Memory of Henri
Today the doctor called and said Henri was having kidney failure. The news hit right before I had a court appearance. Somehow I got through it before walking out of the courthouse with tears streaming down my face. The last time that happened was when JFK was assassinated.We saw him one last time and it was evident he was suffering. So we consented for them to put him to sleep. I have lost the best friend I've ever had. He taught us a lot about life.
He is with God now - my wife's grandmother Mamaw passed away a couple weeks ago at 102. She says he's now with Mamaw in heaven. I think so too. I feel numb. I thank those who have posted kind comments...I'm spending the rest of today thinking about my little friend who had a rough start in life but turned out to be such a unique member of the family...
Two kinds of people - Beware
9/27/2006 5:14 AM
My wife and I got back at 11 last night from dropping Henri at the Gulf Coast Emergency clinic. He had a chemo shot day before yesterday and yesterday he started going out for a break and not coming back. I found him flat under some bushes near our fence. We got him into the house to rest. But later, I heard the kitchen door bump open and saw Henri slowly disappearing in the direction of the van. He was sinking fast and wanted a car ride to the doc. By the time we reached the clinic we needed a gurney to carry him in –90 lbs of dead weight (down from 100 lbs when this started). They got him an IV and stabilized him.
I’m finding that there are two kinds of people out there – the ones who treat their animals medically no matter what (Henri has cost over $5,000 so far and I am scrambling to make enough to keep doing it) – and those who just ‘pull the plug’ without a second thought even if the animal has a chance.
I avoid the latter. Someone that heartless is going to cheat you on a deal in my opinion. If they care so little about animals do you think they really care about cutting short humans?). If I find that out about someone I won’t do business with them. I prefer working with decent, honorable people – which is why it is just as well I didn’t end up on Congress. LOL. As long as Henri has a chance, like any of God’s creations, we will help him. It’s the human thing to do..
Henri still has a chance but it is still touch and go. I think I’ll write in Henri’s name for Congress in the Special Election. He has more guts than anyone and he’d be just as effective as anyone who servesg just two holiday months (Nov/Dec.) making the party rounds in DC. Henri loves FOOD (although he hasn’t eaten in the past 3 days)…that qualifies him for Washington. LOL.
My wife and I got back at 11 last night from dropping Henri at the Gulf Coast Emergency clinic. He had a chemo shot day before yesterday and yesterday he started going out for a break and not coming back. I found him flat under some bushes near our fence. We got him into the house to rest. But later, I heard the kitchen door bump open and saw Henri slowly disappearing in the direction of the van. He was sinking fast and wanted a car ride to the doc. By the time we reached the clinic we needed a gurney to carry him in –90 lbs of dead weight (down from 100 lbs when this started). They got him an IV and stabilized him.
I’m finding that there are two kinds of people out there – the ones who treat their animals medically no matter what (Henri has cost over $5,000 so far and I am scrambling to make enough to keep doing it) – and those who just ‘pull the plug’ without a second thought even if the animal has a chance.
I avoid the latter. Someone that heartless is going to cheat you on a deal in my opinion. If they care so little about animals do you think they really care about cutting short humans?). If I find that out about someone I won’t do business with them. I prefer working with decent, honorable people – which is why it is just as well I didn’t end up on Congress. LOL. As long as Henri has a chance, like any of God’s creations, we will help him. It’s the human thing to do..
Henri still has a chance but it is still touch and go. I think I’ll write in Henri’s name for Congress in the Special Election. He has more guts than anyone and he’d be just as effective as anyone who servesg just two holiday months (Nov/Dec.) making the party rounds in DC. Henri loves FOOD (although he hasn’t eaten in the past 3 days)…that qualifies him for Washington. LOL.
Monday, September 25, 2006
Henri and Congress District 22
Henri and District 22
Monday, September 25, 2006
Henri is flat, under my feet. He skipped breakfast, which concerns me. Henri not gobbling down food is like boys not thinking about sex. His breathing is somewhat better but labored. He did go for some RICE.
Henri has been with me since my first Congress campaign in 2000. As many of you know, I was the first to challenge Mr. DeLay in the GOP primary in years. Many things have happened since that time. With elections drawing near, it’s time to say a couple things about the District 22 race that I think snoring Henri will agree with:
In 2000 I raised the issue of international issues that affected America’s future – I talked about it on the campaign in front of rooms full of Republicans that had never heard DeLay mention global issues. I had done several videos on terrorism in the 90’s and gave copies to both Mr. DeLay and Vice President Elect Dick Cheney eight months before 9 11. Neither one of them had an aide respond with even a question.
I contend that we must elect Congress representatives who have global knowledge if we are to succeed as a nation and in the “war on terrorism.” So which candidate in District 22 has more of that than the others?
That is the issue – NOT whether they are this party or that. The GOP picked a pest control guy last time –he slept even after the 1993 bombing of the World Trade Center. This time they picked a skin doctor, a dermatologist. Do we really need an expert on skin rashes in the House of Representatives keeping us “safe”? How much global expertise does Sekula Gibbs have? Same question for the others. Pick the one with the most if you want to be safer. 9 11 happened because Mr. DeLay ignored the world and had no expertise in it.
I hear politicians say they will “keep the borders safe” yada, yada. Talk is not experience. Where was Dr. Sekula Gibbs in 1994 when I did a video with Dr. Ron Hatchett about the potential of nuclear terrorism coming to the U.S.? Where was she when I was negotiating in over 50 countries worldwide? Where were the other candidates?
Henri agrees. He wants his chemo treatment, but he also wants the people of District 22 with the best representative who really knows the world we face. Since I’m not on the ballot, which of those left fill that role the best?
That is the question for voters this November 7 in District 22…Because of DeLay’s leaving the GOP slot empty and the impossibility of a write in, it is evident that the next representative will be Nick Lampson. But in the Special Election, voters should ask the question – which candidate is the best qualified to sit as our Congress rep during Thanksgiving and Christmas – a whole 2 months! Henri says he’ll run for that…
Monday, September 25, 2006
Henri is flat, under my feet. He skipped breakfast, which concerns me. Henri not gobbling down food is like boys not thinking about sex. His breathing is somewhat better but labored. He did go for some RICE.
Henri has been with me since my first Congress campaign in 2000. As many of you know, I was the first to challenge Mr. DeLay in the GOP primary in years. Many things have happened since that time. With elections drawing near, it’s time to say a couple things about the District 22 race that I think snoring Henri will agree with:
In 2000 I raised the issue of international issues that affected America’s future – I talked about it on the campaign in front of rooms full of Republicans that had never heard DeLay mention global issues. I had done several videos on terrorism in the 90’s and gave copies to both Mr. DeLay and Vice President Elect Dick Cheney eight months before 9 11. Neither one of them had an aide respond with even a question.
I contend that we must elect Congress representatives who have global knowledge if we are to succeed as a nation and in the “war on terrorism.” So which candidate in District 22 has more of that than the others?
That is the issue – NOT whether they are this party or that. The GOP picked a pest control guy last time –he slept even after the 1993 bombing of the World Trade Center. This time they picked a skin doctor, a dermatologist. Do we really need an expert on skin rashes in the House of Representatives keeping us “safe”? How much global expertise does Sekula Gibbs have? Same question for the others. Pick the one with the most if you want to be safer. 9 11 happened because Mr. DeLay ignored the world and had no expertise in it.
I hear politicians say they will “keep the borders safe” yada, yada. Talk is not experience. Where was Dr. Sekula Gibbs in 1994 when I did a video with Dr. Ron Hatchett about the potential of nuclear terrorism coming to the U.S.? Where was she when I was negotiating in over 50 countries worldwide? Where were the other candidates?
Henri agrees. He wants his chemo treatment, but he also wants the people of District 22 with the best representative who really knows the world we face. Since I’m not on the ballot, which of those left fill that role the best?
That is the question for voters this November 7 in District 22…Because of DeLay’s leaving the GOP slot empty and the impossibility of a write in, it is evident that the next representative will be Nick Lampson. But in the Special Election, voters should ask the question – which candidate is the best qualified to sit as our Congress rep during Thanksgiving and Christmas – a whole 2 months! Henri says he’ll run for that…
Henri and Congress District 22
Henri and District 22
Monday, September 25, 2006
Henri is flat, under my feet. He skipped breakfast, which concerns me. Henri not gobbling down food is like boys not thinking about sex. His breathing is somewhat better but labored. He did go for some RICE.
Henri has been with me since my first Congress campaign in 2000. As many of you know, I was the first to challenge Mr. DeLay in the GOP primary in years. Many things have happened since that time. With elections drawing near, it’s time to say a couple things about the District 22 race that I think snoring Henri will agree with:
In 2000 I raised the issue of international issues that affected America’s future – I talked about it on the campaign in front of rooms full of Republicans that had never heard DeLay mention global issues. I had done several videos on terrorism in the 90’s and gave copies to both Mr. DeLay and Vice President Elect Dick Cheney eight months before 9 11. Neither one of them had an aide respond with even a question.
I contend that we must elect Congress representatives who have global knowledge if we are to succeed as a nation and in the “war on terrorism.” So which candidate in District 22 has more of that than the others?
That is the issue – NOT whether they are this party or that. The GOP picked a pest control guy last time –he slept even after the 1993 bombing of the World Trade Center. This time they picked a skin doctor, a dermatologist. Do we really need an expert on skin rashes in the House of Representatives keeping us “safe”? How much global expertise does Sekula Gibbs have? Same question for the others. Pick the one with the most if you want to be safer. 9 11 happened because Mr. DeLay ignored the world and had no expertise in it.
I hear politicians say they will “keep the borders safe” yada, yada. Talk is not experience. Where was Dr. Sekula Gibbs in 1994 when I did a video with Dr. Ron Hatchett about the potential of nuclear terrorism coming to the U.S.? Where was she when I was negotiating in over 50 countries worldwide? Where were the other candidates?
Henri agrees. He wants his chemo treatment, but he also wants the people of District 22 with the best representative who really knows the world we face. Since I’m not on the ballot, which of those left fill that role the best?
That is the question for voters this November 7 in District 22…
Monday, September 25, 2006
Henri is flat, under my feet. He skipped breakfast, which concerns me. Henri not gobbling down food is like boys not thinking about sex. His breathing is somewhat better but labored. He did go for some RICE.
Henri has been with me since my first Congress campaign in 2000. As many of you know, I was the first to challenge Mr. DeLay in the GOP primary in years. Many things have happened since that time. With elections drawing near, it’s time to say a couple things about the District 22 race that I think snoring Henri will agree with:
In 2000 I raised the issue of international issues that affected America’s future – I talked about it on the campaign in front of rooms full of Republicans that had never heard DeLay mention global issues. I had done several videos on terrorism in the 90’s and gave copies to both Mr. DeLay and Vice President Elect Dick Cheney eight months before 9 11. Neither one of them had an aide respond with even a question.
I contend that we must elect Congress representatives who have global knowledge if we are to succeed as a nation and in the “war on terrorism.” So which candidate in District 22 has more of that than the others?
That is the issue – NOT whether they are this party or that. The GOP picked a pest control guy last time –he slept even after the 1993 bombing of the World Trade Center. This time they picked a skin doctor, a dermatologist. Do we really need an expert on skin rashes in the House of Representatives keeping us “safe”? How much global expertise does Sekula Gibbs have? Same question for the others. Pick the one with the most if you want to be safer. 9 11 happened because Mr. DeLay ignored the world and had no expertise in it.
I hear politicians say they will “keep the borders safe” yada, yada. Talk is not experience. Where was Dr. Sekula Gibbs in 1994 when I did a video with Dr. Ron Hatchett about the potential of nuclear terrorism coming to the U.S.? Where was she when I was negotiating in over 50 countries worldwide? Where were the other candidates?
Henri agrees. He wants his chemo treatment, but he also wants the people of District 22 with the best representative who really knows the world we face. Since I’m not on the ballot, which of those left fill that role the best?
That is the question for voters this November 7 in District 22…
Sunday, September 24, 2006
Henri Update and Osama
We thought Henri was OK when we picked him up from Gulf Coast yesterday at noon, but he passed blood before we got out the door. They gave us more pills for that. By nightfall he was breathing hard. We ended up going to the emergency room from 7:30 pm (running down 59 with the 4 way flashers going) to after midnight. They observed him but said his oxygen was OK and to take him home. We got into the van in the rain and he quietly sat in the seat behind me.
He’s been grumpy today-- not eating much beyond part of a tortilla I gave him. He kept rejecting the pill we slipped into some pound cake (apparently cancer dogs like sweet cake). He was lying FLAT under my desk and growling when we approached when L suggested “Walk” -- THAT got him excited. He had not had a walk around the neighbor in years. Now, he likes the ladies (call him a "ladies dog") and it is men that he growls at, including the doctor at the emergency room. Doc laughed and called in the women to give Henri his check up.
The exercise got Henri going and he finally ate the pound cake with the hidden pill. L discovered he wound eat bread. But he's not eating much.
The news all weekend is that Osama bin laden may be dead from typhoid, somewhere in Pakistan. All I can say is that it no longer matters. Bin laden started 9 11 hoping to get the U.S. to overreact and create a “jihad” movement that would fuel more terrorism. Bush did exactly that by jumping into Iraq. Now intelligence sources say that Iraq is fueling the growth of terrorism. Bin laden got what he wanted and Al Qaida will continue without him. In Afghanistan we had them beaten and world opinion was on our side. We lost all of that with Iraq and intelligence reports it has increased our threat. We need a smarter way to deal with it.
Friday, September 22, 2006
Why the heck not?
We got to see Henri tonight. He visited us for awhile – then he turned, went back to the door and scratched – his signal he was ready to go back into the hospital! Apparently he felt it wasn’t time to leave yet. The doctor said he couldn’t believe the change in Henri. He had been “down” all day, then suddenly “he just lit up and came alive” this afternoon. He’s staying in the hospital tonight.
The doctor said that when he or one of the men walked past his cage, Henri would growl. But if one of the girls came by, he was Mr. Friendly. He loves girls. Funny dog.
Might get him back tomorrow. Gulf Coast has done an incredible job. But you learn to take it one day at the time. This has been a very aggressive cancer…we’ll see.
By the way, I think it would be interesting to see President Bush take the chance and debate the President of Iran. If he can debate Sen. Kerry, why not Mr. Iran? Instead of avoiding him at the UN, George should have strolled up to him and invited him to Crawford for BBQ, just like he did when he was Governor and made peace with Democrat Bob Bullock, the Lt. Governor who controlled Austin. Why the heck not?
The doctor said that when he or one of the men walked past his cage, Henri would growl. But if one of the girls came by, he was Mr. Friendly. He loves girls. Funny dog.
Might get him back tomorrow. Gulf Coast has done an incredible job. But you learn to take it one day at the time. This has been a very aggressive cancer…we’ll see.
By the way, I think it would be interesting to see President Bush take the chance and debate the President of Iran. If he can debate Sen. Kerry, why not Mr. Iran? Instead of avoiding him at the UN, George should have strolled up to him and invited him to Crawford for BBQ, just like he did when he was Governor and made peace with Democrat Bob Bullock, the Lt. Governor who controlled Austin. Why the heck not?
Thursday, September 21, 2006
Henri - the Great Communicator
September 21, 2006 The doctors won’t know for a day or two if they can stabilize him. We’ll treat him as long as possible, and as long as he isn’t suffering.
Tuesday, September 19, 2006
Rumsfeld Corrected by US Troops - An Embarrassment
Tuesday, September 19, 2006
8 p.m. Bad day for Henri. He has been flat all day. No appetite – so unlike Henri who ALWAYS loves to eat. Not even is favorite—bread—got him to rise from the dining room floor at noon. He did go out and took a potty break. I watched him straining and some diarrhea. Poor guy. In 3 weeks of treatment this is the worst he’s been. So far he’s been eating well and feeling OK, due to the miracle of modern animal medicine. But today was not a good day. He’s flat on the doorway of my study now, resting and “helping” as always. It seems to be very similar to what people go through with cancer.
The pope has started a furor with comments about Mohammad. Unlike John Paul who was a “uniter,” this one could be a divider. That makes the world even more unstable. Pope Benedict found fault with another religion -- but failed to mention his own church’s role in the Crusades that led to mindless attacks on Muslims by Christians centuries ago, not to mention its pedophile Priest problem (I was raised as a Catholic).
We’ve had a President who has presided over the biggest drop in America’s global reputation of any administration, and now a Pope who is throwing stones. Our ministers like Pat Robertson call for the assassination of foreign leaders. None are building bridges.
Tomorrow I get to go a lunch at which Gen. Colin Powell is speaking. He is a leader I can respect. Gen. Powell is someone we should elect if our country is too succeed. Appointing political hacks to run our agencies (like Michael Brown at FEMA, etc) and prizing blind loyalty over competence does not guarantee success in running a complex world, or prevailing in Iraq. Iraq is a mess because of the incompetent people selected to set it up.
I just read about a military meeting in which Donald Rumsfeld told our troops that 95% of the house searches were now being done by the Iraqis. OUR troops shouted him down, its on video, and informed him that 95% of the house searches are still being done by U.S. troops, not Iraqis. That is how out of touch with reality Mr. Rumseld is –our troops are having to correct him on the actual facts. By keeping him, Pres. Bush is sanctioning his incompetence -- which started with too few troops to guard the ammo dumps and no rebuilding plan. How brilliant is that?
Rumsfeld’s conduct created the Iraq mess. A President who really cares about American competence would sack him, and replace him with someone who knows who is conducting 95% of the searches in Baghdad--someone who is not just another party hack who is clueless about what is going on around him. American taxpayers deserve better than that. All Americans deserve better than that.
8 p.m. Bad day for Henri. He has been flat all day. No appetite – so unlike Henri who ALWAYS loves to eat. Not even is favorite—bread—got him to rise from the dining room floor at noon. He did go out and took a potty break. I watched him straining and some diarrhea. Poor guy. In 3 weeks of treatment this is the worst he’s been. So far he’s been eating well and feeling OK, due to the miracle of modern animal medicine. But today was not a good day. He’s flat on the doorway of my study now, resting and “helping” as always. It seems to be very similar to what people go through with cancer.
The pope has started a furor with comments about Mohammad. Unlike John Paul who was a “uniter,” this one could be a divider. That makes the world even more unstable. Pope Benedict found fault with another religion -- but failed to mention his own church’s role in the Crusades that led to mindless attacks on Muslims by Christians centuries ago, not to mention its pedophile Priest problem (I was raised as a Catholic).
We’ve had a President who has presided over the biggest drop in America’s global reputation of any administration, and now a Pope who is throwing stones. Our ministers like Pat Robertson call for the assassination of foreign leaders. None are building bridges.
Tomorrow I get to go a lunch at which Gen. Colin Powell is speaking. He is a leader I can respect. Gen. Powell is someone we should elect if our country is too succeed. Appointing political hacks to run our agencies (like Michael Brown at FEMA, etc) and prizing blind loyalty over competence does not guarantee success in running a complex world, or prevailing in Iraq. Iraq is a mess because of the incompetent people selected to set it up.
I just read about a military meeting in which Donald Rumsfeld told our troops that 95% of the house searches were now being done by the Iraqis. OUR troops shouted him down, its on video, and informed him that 95% of the house searches are still being done by U.S. troops, not Iraqis. That is how out of touch with reality Mr. Rumseld is –our troops are having to correct him on the actual facts. By keeping him, Pres. Bush is sanctioning his incompetence -- which started with too few troops to guard the ammo dumps and no rebuilding plan. How brilliant is that?
Rumsfeld’s conduct created the Iraq mess. A President who really cares about American competence would sack him, and replace him with someone who knows who is conducting 95% of the searches in Baghdad--someone who is not just another party hack who is clueless about what is going on around him. American taxpayers deserve better than that. All Americans deserve better than that.
Sunday, September 17, 2006
best person in each slot gets my vote - no straight ticket
This election we need to vote for leadership with common sense. I don’t want any more whacko agendas.
Nor do we need one party controlling ALL branches of government. That always leads to extremes regardless of party. When I ran for Congress, I had people emailing me that they hoped the Iraq invasion would led to Armageddon, and the person was not the only one who felt that way. That was someone voting for Tom DeLay in the GOP primary. We won’t have a future if we keep electing people who think like that.
It’s not our job to play God on when the world ends. It’s our job to try to keep it from happening. Right now we have leaders who say they care about life while voting down children’s health care, education, etc. They don’t care about children or the future because they think there is no future.
We need leadership with a real vision and plan to develop a brighter future – someone who actually knows what the hell is going on in other parts of the planet before we elect them!
The pest control guy who has never been to the Middle East or anywhere but Congress is not serving the people’s interest with his ignorance of global affairs (but has great expertise at shaking down corporations for donations) that will affect our future.
So folks, let’s vote for some real leaders for a change, whether they are in a party or independent. A diehard conservative once told me that he thought a split Congress and Executive branch was best for conservatives, because it produced “gridlock.” It certainly keeps things from getting radical left or right.
I am going to be a ticket splitter this election – best person in each slot gets the vote. That can only help our democracy improve….
Nor do we need one party controlling ALL branches of government. That always leads to extremes regardless of party. When I ran for Congress, I had people emailing me that they hoped the Iraq invasion would led to Armageddon, and the person was not the only one who felt that way. That was someone voting for Tom DeLay in the GOP primary. We won’t have a future if we keep electing people who think like that.
It’s not our job to play God on when the world ends. It’s our job to try to keep it from happening. Right now we have leaders who say they care about life while voting down children’s health care, education, etc. They don’t care about children or the future because they think there is no future.
We need leadership with a real vision and plan to develop a brighter future – someone who actually knows what the hell is going on in other parts of the planet before we elect them!
The pest control guy who has never been to the Middle East or anywhere but Congress is not serving the people’s interest with his ignorance of global affairs (but has great expertise at shaking down corporations for donations) that will affect our future.
So folks, let’s vote for some real leaders for a change, whether they are in a party or independent. A diehard conservative once told me that he thought a split Congress and Executive branch was best for conservatives, because it produced “gridlock.” It certainly keeps things from getting radical left or right.
I am going to be a ticket splitter this election – best person in each slot gets the vote. That can only help our democracy improve….
Friday, September 15, 2006
Passing of Gov. Ann Richards
Governor Ann Richards passing in the middle of one of the most peculiar elections in Texas history is having its own impact – one can’t help but compare her style with today’s candidates. She was only the second woman elected Governor in Texas' long history. I’m thinking we need another woman in the Governor’s chair today since Ms. Richards term ended in 1994. She did give us the lottery that is putting $1 billion a year into our schools.
Compare that to Perry’s nutty plan to take 1 million acres of Texas land for a super great Trans-Texas Terrorist Dream corridor. Those pipelines in the middle of the freeway should roast motorists just fine with just one small bomb. Where do these guys come up with these crazy ideas?
For readers outside Texas, or checking in from another planet, our next Texas Governor will not be elected by a majority, but something less. Instead of just one Democrat and one Republican duking it out, we also have two independents (“Kinky” and Grandma) stirring the pot with the potential to win –or they could collectively pull enough votes from the Democrat to keep in office a weak Republican Governor who is presently scoring under 35%. It looks like people need to pick the one with the best shot of replacing the Perry peter principals.
Ann opened the doors for women and many minorities that had been left out. Women have been left out a lot lately, and Grandma has been making a lot of sense. We need a Governor that represents all Texans, not just the few members of the “club.” Ann was one of those and shall be missed.
Finally, I see headlines that Bush says that capturing bin laden is “not our top priority.” What? Why have a “war on terror” if the No. 1 rat who planned 9 11 (Osama bin laden) is not a “top priority” ?? It will probably take women in that office as well to get the priorities straight…
Compare that to Perry’s nutty plan to take 1 million acres of Texas land for a super great Trans-Texas Terrorist Dream corridor. Those pipelines in the middle of the freeway should roast motorists just fine with just one small bomb. Where do these guys come up with these crazy ideas?
For readers outside Texas, or checking in from another planet, our next Texas Governor will not be elected by a majority, but something less. Instead of just one Democrat and one Republican duking it out, we also have two independents (“Kinky” and Grandma) stirring the pot with the potential to win –or they could collectively pull enough votes from the Democrat to keep in office a weak Republican Governor who is presently scoring under 35%. It looks like people need to pick the one with the best shot of replacing the Perry peter principals.
Ann opened the doors for women and many minorities that had been left out. Women have been left out a lot lately, and Grandma has been making a lot of sense. We need a Governor that represents all Texans, not just the few members of the “club.” Ann was one of those and shall be missed.
Finally, I see headlines that Bush says that capturing bin laden is “not our top priority.” What? Why have a “war on terror” if the No. 1 rat who planned 9 11 (Osama bin laden) is not a “top priority” ?? It will probably take women in that office as well to get the priorities straight…
Tuesday, September 12, 2006
U.S. Embassy Attacked in Syria
Even Syria is having a problem with terrorists. Several just attacked the U.S. Embassy in Damascus Syria. I was there a few years ago on a kidnapping case (photo) --a 12 year old Texas girl was being held in Sidon Lebanon and Damascus was as close as we could get. You never know what to expect next…
Monday, September 11, 2006
How to Honor Those Who Fell on 9 11
Five years ago today I spent the entire day at a TV studio (Fox 26 Houston) as a terrorism expert, trying to figure out what had happened that awful day. I started to watch the events today but just wasn't up to reliving that awful day again.
P.S. Henri gets his 3rd chemo treatment Friday. He has been responding well...
Tuesday, September 05, 2006
Standby for a Crazy Election in Texas
I highly recommend the Gulf Coast Vet clinic on West Loop in Houston. Our vet sent us there with Henri vomiting etc from cancer and they worked a miracle. He would have been gone by now if not for their talents. Now he’s gobbling high protein puppy food and barking at tree shadows on the fence again.
Having a cancer patient in the family, even a dog, totally changes your perspective. It has made me more aware of the people around us who have cancer and the medical miracle drugs we now have to give them a fighting chance. A friend of my wife’s is taking chemo for breast cancer.
For Henri they started with a shot. Now he gets a couple of pills morning and night. It has given him a new lease on life. We’ll take it, even if it lasts a year. He’ll get a check up in a few days and we’ll see. One noticeable change - he now whizzes so often he reminds me of a 50-plus year old man.
Texas is gearing up for a crazy election cycle this fall, from cigar smoking independents to write-ins.
If you wrote a novel about what has happened in our Congress district (TX 22) so far the past year no one would have believed it – it would have been considered to far out even for fiction. Who would believe that an indicted Congressman would take his donations and bail out on his own party after winning a primary, leading to attempts at replacements, write-in campaigns and a last minute Special Election call).
It’s guaranteed the next Texas Governor will get less than 50% of the vote.
And it appears the first GOP seat to become Democrat will be this one. Even a majority shift is possible. Change is in the air…
Having a cancer patient in the family, even a dog, totally changes your perspective. It has made me more aware of the people around us who have cancer and the medical miracle drugs we now have to give them a fighting chance. A friend of my wife’s is taking chemo for breast cancer.
For Henri they started with a shot. Now he gets a couple of pills morning and night. It has given him a new lease on life. We’ll take it, even if it lasts a year. He’ll get a check up in a few days and we’ll see. One noticeable change - he now whizzes so often he reminds me of a 50-plus year old man.
Texas is gearing up for a crazy election cycle this fall, from cigar smoking independents to write-ins.
If you wrote a novel about what has happened in our Congress district (TX 22) so far the past year no one would have believed it – it would have been considered to far out even for fiction. Who would believe that an indicted Congressman would take his donations and bail out on his own party after winning a primary, leading to attempts at replacements, write-in campaigns and a last minute Special Election call).
It’s guaranteed the next Texas Governor will get less than 50% of the vote.
And it appears the first GOP seat to become Democrat will be this one. Even a majority shift is possible. Change is in the air…
Saturday, September 02, 2006
Henri
Doctor called yesterday and said that they know what Henri has – its Lymphoma, a cancer. They can give him chemo but when I asked how much time Henri had, he said; “Maybe a year.”
We started him on chemo…
We started him on chemo…
Thursday, August 31, 2006
The Most Conservative dog in Ft Bend County
I haven’t been online due to a family emergency. Our dog Henri, the 100 lb lab mix we rescued from the streets a few years ago, is in emergency treatment. The doctor said today that he thinks Henri may have been poisoned. His liver is off the charts. He’s never been sick and this happened almost overnight. I haven’t been able to think about much else. Someone asked me to run in the Special Election for District 22. No. Why be a two month Congressman? That is silly. Gov. Perry flipped flopped after saying he wasn’t going to call for one. My priority is my family and Henri is really one of the kids. I’d rather invest the money in him then any campaign. We used to joke how Henri was the most conservative dog in Ft. Bend County, a county that loves to tout its conservatives. Any change, even a fallen chair, would set him off barking until it was put back. He has been my shadow, but it got me when all he could do was lie under my desk and groan because he felt so bad. Our vet referred him to the best clinic in town, where he is tonight.
I feel like I've had a ton of bricks hit me. That should make the DeLay diehard fans happy; they always hated me for running against him to give voters a choice on the ballot. It forced their guy to campaign and work harder in his district -- even though that is was what democracy is all about.
But there are some genuinely nice people out there, praying for Henri. I care about him more then any politician, indicted or un-indicted, for sure.
I feel like I've had a ton of bricks hit me. That should make the DeLay diehard fans happy; they always hated me for running against him to give voters a choice on the ballot. It forced their guy to campaign and work harder in his district -- even though that is was what democracy is all about.
But there are some genuinely nice people out there, praying for Henri. I care about him more then any politician, indicted or un-indicted, for sure.
Sunday, August 27, 2006
Terrorism strategy vs Disaster Recovery
With Hurricane Ernesto bearing down on the U.S. it is a good time to look at our level of preparation.
We have focused so hard on terrorism we have forgotten that more peoples’ lives are adversely affected by mother nature than Al Qaida – Hurricane Katrina killed over 1,500 people, about half the number of people who died on 9 11 and substantially more than those killed in the London and Madrid subway bombings.
A major earthquake in L.A. or San Francisco would kill many more. The Christmas Tsunami killed over 250,000 in Asia less than two years ago. Are we prepared?
I don’t think so. In Houston we live downwind of a nuclear power plant, yet I have not heard of any emergency plan if there is an accident. But I have heard of people with zero terrorism expertise (but good political connections) being put on bioterror committees and the like. How that makes us safer is beyond me.
We need to be as focused on disaster relief from natural disasters as we do from potential terrorism. FEMA should be removed from Homeland Security for that reason since HS focus is on prevention and FEMA’s is on recovery efforts –totally the opposite focus of each other.
We have focused so hard on terrorism we have forgotten that more peoples’ lives are adversely affected by mother nature than Al Qaida – Hurricane Katrina killed over 1,500 people, about half the number of people who died on 9 11 and substantially more than those killed in the London and Madrid subway bombings.
A major earthquake in L.A. or San Francisco would kill many more. The Christmas Tsunami killed over 250,000 in Asia less than two years ago. Are we prepared?
I don’t think so. In Houston we live downwind of a nuclear power plant, yet I have not heard of any emergency plan if there is an accident. But I have heard of people with zero terrorism expertise (but good political connections) being put on bioterror committees and the like. How that makes us safer is beyond me.
We need to be as focused on disaster relief from natural disasters as we do from potential terrorism. FEMA should be removed from Homeland Security for that reason since HS focus is on prevention and FEMA’s is on recovery efforts –totally the opposite focus of each other.
Thursday, August 24, 2006
No Bubble in Houston - The World is Investing Here
I am meeting some really fascinating people, including self made entrepreneurs who own several businesses in different countries and others who are planning to build multimillion dollar projects in some exotic places (places like the Caymans, etc.). I love this type of stuff – each country has totally different laws, unwritten rules, etc.
One investor told me last night that the election in Mexico will shake lose a lot of investment from money leaving the country -- and much of it will come to Texas. He’s already bought land for it. I see money pouring into our area from around the world.
The buzz is that the Houston real estate market is going UP for at least the next two years while the rest of the country is going DOWN. We have no bubble in the Greater Houston area – people are moving here because it is still inexpensive to get property or live on the coast. And our population is doubling the next two decades!
In between all of this running around, I took our cat Louis the XIV to the vet for a shot. He is a black and white tabby who is getting old and his system needed a cortisone shot. The dogs went wild thinking that THEY were getting to GO somewhere, so it is always a zoo to keep them from running into the garage and jumping into the van. If you aren’t thinking two steps ahead of them, it is chaos. Henri weighs over 100 lbs and Lexie bounces off the walls, so taking them to the vet is like a mini version of the Ringling Brothers circus. Louis XIV loves the dogs and will put his nose in their ears. The other cat, Minou, is small and will not let a dog near her. They seem to be lobbying for a vacation lately by trying to get into the car if I leave a door open.
I feel bad for the people going through the bombings and killings in Iraq. It appears that a religious war has begun that is killing thousands of people. Sunni’s are having to move out of Shia areas and vice versa. It is re-segregation. Iraq was a secular state and women could dress western. Now it is becoming another Iran, run by radicals in each group -- and women have to cover up or face the nut jobs running around. It is a step back. It reminds me of the story of opening Pandora’s box.
It has been a busy summer, despite the intense heat. Let’s hope our quiet hurricane season stays that way. I am not up to another Hurricane Katrina/Rita repeat…I don’t think any of us are …
I’ve discovered a product that could be extremely useful when the next storm does come that could save damage in every building. Since we live on the coast, it’s only a matter of when, not if. More of that later, when I’ve got the deal signed…
One investor told me last night that the election in Mexico will shake lose a lot of investment from money leaving the country -- and much of it will come to Texas. He’s already bought land for it. I see money pouring into our area from around the world.
The buzz is that the Houston real estate market is going UP for at least the next two years while the rest of the country is going DOWN. We have no bubble in the Greater Houston area – people are moving here because it is still inexpensive to get property or live on the coast. And our population is doubling the next two decades!
In between all of this running around, I took our cat Louis the XIV to the vet for a shot. He is a black and white tabby who is getting old and his system needed a cortisone shot. The dogs went wild thinking that THEY were getting to GO somewhere, so it is always a zoo to keep them from running into the garage and jumping into the van. If you aren’t thinking two steps ahead of them, it is chaos. Henri weighs over 100 lbs and Lexie bounces off the walls, so taking them to the vet is like a mini version of the Ringling Brothers circus. Louis XIV loves the dogs and will put his nose in their ears. The other cat, Minou, is small and will not let a dog near her. They seem to be lobbying for a vacation lately by trying to get into the car if I leave a door open.
I feel bad for the people going through the bombings and killings in Iraq. It appears that a religious war has begun that is killing thousands of people. Sunni’s are having to move out of Shia areas and vice versa. It is re-segregation. Iraq was a secular state and women could dress western. Now it is becoming another Iran, run by radicals in each group -- and women have to cover up or face the nut jobs running around. It is a step back. It reminds me of the story of opening Pandora’s box.
It has been a busy summer, despite the intense heat. Let’s hope our quiet hurricane season stays that way. I am not up to another Hurricane Katrina/Rita repeat…I don’t think any of us are …
I’ve discovered a product that could be extremely useful when the next storm does come that could save damage in every building. Since we live on the coast, it’s only a matter of when, not if. More of that later, when I’ve got the deal signed…
Monday, August 21, 2006
Meet our New Congressman in CD22
I haven’t said much about Congress District 22 because it has been such a circus event to watch and there is not much to say.
Saturday, August 19, 2006
NASA MAKES A GREAT MOVE
Saturday, August 19, 2006
NASA MAKES A GREAT MOVE
I have criticized them in the past, but NASA just made a novel, and very smart move.
For the first time it has contracted with the first private space companies to provide transport services to the international space station. The assumption is that private business will get us into space at far less cost and still make a profit.
It costs billions to launch one Space Shuttle. It took a measly $20 million to get SpaceShipOne, a vehicle built by entrepreneurs and visionaries like Burt Rutan, Paul Allen and Richard Branson to the edge of space (winning the X prize). Beef that up some and you have a space vehicle.
This is the beginning of private business getting into space business. NASA’s allowing it to happen while it focuses on the moon and beyond is a big step in the right direction. It will unleash the entrepreneurial genius of our private sector with faster, better, cheaper technology.
Transportation is the first link in that process. Once we have new vehicles that put people into space, a whole new level of business --space business. It offers huge potential benefits on a number of levels. Cheap transport into space will open up space manufacturing of new drugs and computer parts, satellites, and who knows what else.
Congratulations NASA for a smart move. It’s nice to know that their HQ is in my Congressional district. I loved flying so much as a kid that I had my pilot's license at 17...
NASA MAKES A GREAT MOVE
I have criticized them in the past, but NASA just made a novel, and very smart move.
For the first time it has contracted with the first private space companies to provide transport services to the international space station. The assumption is that private business will get us into space at far less cost and still make a profit.
It costs billions to launch one Space Shuttle. It took a measly $20 million to get SpaceShipOne, a vehicle built by entrepreneurs and visionaries like Burt Rutan, Paul Allen and Richard Branson to the edge of space (winning the X prize). Beef that up some and you have a space vehicle.
This is the beginning of private business getting into space business. NASA’s allowing it to happen while it focuses on the moon and beyond is a big step in the right direction. It will unleash the entrepreneurial genius of our private sector with faster, better, cheaper technology.
Transportation is the first link in that process. Once we have new vehicles that put people into space, a whole new level of business --space business. It offers huge potential benefits on a number of levels. Cheap transport into space will open up space manufacturing of new drugs and computer parts, satellites, and who knows what else.
Congratulations NASA for a smart move. It’s nice to know that their HQ is in my Congressional district. I loved flying so much as a kid that I had my pilot's license at 17...
Wednesday, August 16, 2006
Taking a Test on Terror and Safety
I gave a talk on terrorism to a Lion’s Club group in my home county, Ft. Bend. Since it was a conservative Republican type group, I asked the question: “How many feel safer today than five (5) years ago?”
Not a single hand was raised. I expected more than that.
So I talked about ways to prepare for the unexpected. One item I pointed out was that NONE of our local (regional, state, etc) governments had said anything about having potassium iodide available in case there is a radiation leak from the South Texas Nuclear plant, which is only sixty miles from Houston. Several people seemed to be ready to go get some.
Our leadership has stirred up strong feelings overseas. I think it will increase the chances of more strikes on U.S. targets, although I am not convinced that the liquid explosive threat was real. It would look pretty strange --and obvious-- to see several people trying to mix smelly chemicals on board a flight. It doesn’t sound practical. But the next one could be.
Not a single hand was raised. I expected more than that.
So I talked about ways to prepare for the unexpected. One item I pointed out was that NONE of our local (regional, state, etc) governments had said anything about having potassium iodide available in case there is a radiation leak from the South Texas Nuclear plant, which is only sixty miles from Houston. Several people seemed to be ready to go get some.
Our leadership has stirred up strong feelings overseas. I think it will increase the chances of more strikes on U.S. targets, although I am not convinced that the liquid explosive threat was real. It would look pretty strange --and obvious-- to see several people trying to mix smelly chemicals on board a flight. It doesn’t sound practical. But the next one could be.
Wednesday, August 09, 2006
Open Congress seat TX CD22
To answer the question some of you have --No, I will not be a candidate for the now open TX CD22 Congress seat vacated by Tom DeLay, who is leaving the seat despite a court order that says he can’t be replaced on the ballot.
As a 2006 GOP primary candidate, under the law I am ineligible to be a write in for the same seat in the same year (the same applies to the other two GOP primary candidates). Only someone who didn’t run in the primary could be a write in. But anyone who jumps into a write in campaign really is in a no win situation.
The true is when the incumbent Mr. DeLay bailed out, he ceded the seat to the Democrat and former Congressman Nick Lampson, since they have a lock on at least 41% of the district. In chess, it’s check mate.
Ironically, the man who set about to secure a GOP lock on power ended up setting up his own seat to be one of the first to go into the Democrat column.
Had DeLay given it up before the primary, any other Republican elected in that primary in March would have almost an automatically won. However, by staying in the primary, then bailing out when forced to stay on, Mr. DeLay has screwed his own party and created a Democrat seat in Congress that could remain so in 2008 since CD22 demographics make it look like the UN.
The real issue is who will be around in 2008 to run. A cast of thousands on the GOP side vs. 1 Dem incumbent in a demographically diverse district….
As a 2006 GOP primary candidate, under the law I am ineligible to be a write in for the same seat in the same year (the same applies to the other two GOP primary candidates). Only someone who didn’t run in the primary could be a write in. But anyone who jumps into a write in campaign really is in a no win situation.
The true is when the incumbent Mr. DeLay bailed out, he ceded the seat to the Democrat and former Congressman Nick Lampson, since they have a lock on at least 41% of the district. In chess, it’s check mate.
Ironically, the man who set about to secure a GOP lock on power ended up setting up his own seat to be one of the first to go into the Democrat column.
Had DeLay given it up before the primary, any other Republican elected in that primary in March would have almost an automatically won. However, by staying in the primary, then bailing out when forced to stay on, Mr. DeLay has screwed his own party and created a Democrat seat in Congress that could remain so in 2008 since CD22 demographics make it look like the UN.
The real issue is who will be around in 2008 to run. A cast of thousands on the GOP side vs. 1 Dem incumbent in a demographically diverse district….
Monday, August 07, 2006
Global chaos is not good for the USA
Global Chaos Not Good for USA
Mexico’s is still going through what the U.S. went through in 2000 – a contested Presidential election. The sore loser is Obrador, who might have a chance in the next six-year term if he handled this delicate situation without shutting down Mexico city as he is doing. Until Mexico and its southern neighbors can generate jobs, our immigration crisis will continue, wall or no wall. I didn’t see Obrador generating any jobs. Let’s hope the winner will. It will take our help.
In Israel _ A direct hit by a Hezbollah rocket killed 15 in Israel – the deadliest. Imagine the damage if they could actually aim those rockets. That will be the next development if this continues. We now know that 9 11 was triggered by our presence in Lebanon in 1983, when bin laden saw the broken tower after the suicide bomber killed over 240 U.S. troops. I still remember that event since I was traveling there for the Fortune 500 at the time.
I did a video in the 90’s warning about a potential nuclear 9 11. This latest clash, if not handled quickly in the right way could plant the seeds for the next 9 11, which could be far worse than the original.
The extremists seem to be coming out of the woodwork (and not from just one religion) and that is not a positive trend for our future security. Lebanon could generate thousands of bin ladens. Anger is boiling over. Anger overrides logic in the age of nuclear power.
I still can’t believe we are electing people who have no experience in these parts of the world that affect our future prosperity and security. Global chaos is not good for the USA, and not a trend that guarantees success and security…
Positive Quote of the Day:
"The mediocre teacher tells. The good teacher explains. The superior
teacher demonstrates. The great teacher inspires."
-- William Arthur Ward
Mexico’s is still going through what the U.S. went through in 2000 – a contested Presidential election. The sore loser is Obrador, who might have a chance in the next six-year term if he handled this delicate situation without shutting down Mexico city as he is doing. Until Mexico and its southern neighbors can generate jobs, our immigration crisis will continue, wall or no wall. I didn’t see Obrador generating any jobs. Let’s hope the winner will. It will take our help.
In Israel _ A direct hit by a Hezbollah rocket killed 15 in Israel – the deadliest. Imagine the damage if they could actually aim those rockets. That will be the next development if this continues. We now know that 9 11 was triggered by our presence in Lebanon in 1983, when bin laden saw the broken tower after the suicide bomber killed over 240 U.S. troops. I still remember that event since I was traveling there for the Fortune 500 at the time.
I did a video in the 90’s warning about a potential nuclear 9 11. This latest clash, if not handled quickly in the right way could plant the seeds for the next 9 11, which could be far worse than the original.
The extremists seem to be coming out of the woodwork (and not from just one religion) and that is not a positive trend for our future security. Lebanon could generate thousands of bin ladens. Anger is boiling over. Anger overrides logic in the age of nuclear power.
I still can’t believe we are electing people who have no experience in these parts of the world that affect our future prosperity and security. Global chaos is not good for the USA, and not a trend that guarantees success and security…
Positive Quote of the Day:
"The mediocre teacher tells. The good teacher explains. The superior
teacher demonstrates. The great teacher inspires."
-- William Arthur Ward
Wednesday, August 02, 2006
Visit to New Orleans - Potential Hurricane Chris is coming
Wednesday, August 02, 2006
We just got back from New Orleans, a quick vacation before my wife starts law school --and a chance to survey what has happened since Katrina hit. By chance, we drove over the day the 5th circuit was hearing the appeal on Congress District 22 which I had run in – the issue before it: whether Mr. DeLay can jump off the ballot or not. We drove past the court on the way to the hotel. It is a beautiful courthouse.
The French Quarter was busy with tourists but in Chalmette FEMA trailers sat in front of dead homes. I could smell MOLD when we drove into the area. But there were signs of life and it seems to be slowly coming back. Conventioneers were drinking and weaving about the French Quarter. They filled the bar at our hotel, the Monteleone. By luck we ended up with a nice suite with a river view.
And now there is the potential of a Hurricane Chris bearing down on us in the Gulf Coast again next week. I was glad to leave New Orleans low lying areas behind.
On the global front, the Israelis and Hezbollah are continuing their fight. While Israel has the right to defend itself, the air strikes have also been a setback in the global public relations war when large numbers of civilians are hit. The interesting part is that an administration that has not put the UN first is now putting the UN first. My, times have changed.
In the House of Representatives, the term “French fries” and French toast are back on the Menu. My, times have changed.
I have been covered up with work since the Congress campaign ended. Tonight, I rented a video on the rise of Fidel Castro in Cuba. Hopefully, his days are numbered. Times have changed...
We just got back from New Orleans, a quick vacation before my wife starts law school --and a chance to survey what has happened since Katrina hit. By chance, we drove over the day the 5th circuit was hearing the appeal on Congress District 22 which I had run in – the issue before it: whether Mr. DeLay can jump off the ballot or not. We drove past the court on the way to the hotel. It is a beautiful courthouse.
The French Quarter was busy with tourists but in Chalmette FEMA trailers sat in front of dead homes. I could smell MOLD when we drove into the area. But there were signs of life and it seems to be slowly coming back. Conventioneers were drinking and weaving about the French Quarter. They filled the bar at our hotel, the Monteleone. By luck we ended up with a nice suite with a river view.
And now there is the potential of a Hurricane Chris bearing down on us in the Gulf Coast again next week. I was glad to leave New Orleans low lying areas behind.
On the global front, the Israelis and Hezbollah are continuing their fight. While Israel has the right to defend itself, the air strikes have also been a setback in the global public relations war when large numbers of civilians are hit. The interesting part is that an administration that has not put the UN first is now putting the UN first. My, times have changed.
In the House of Representatives, the term “French fries” and French toast are back on the Menu. My, times have changed.
I have been covered up with work since the Congress campaign ended. Tonight, I rented a video on the rise of Fidel Castro in Cuba. Hopefully, his days are numbered. Times have changed...
Saturday, July 22, 2006
Dangerous Days
The fighting in Lebanon and Israel is distracting the world from Iran's nuclear program. It could have a major kick back effect -- and serve to ignite a much wider conflict well beyond Iraq, Lebanon and Israel. These are dangerous days. The aftermath may not be what we expect.
An excellent anaylsis is in today's column by Jim Hoagland:
http://chron.com/disp/story.mpl/editorial/outlook/4064520.html
I clipped the heart of the article. Here's the problem:
"The U.N. and the Bush administration also failed to press the Lebanese to live up to their responsibility to deploy forces into the border areas evacuated by Israel in 2000. Instead, Hezbollah moved in its Syrian- and Iranian-supplied rockets and its irregulars..."
And here's the solution:
"
An excellent anaylsis is in today's column by Jim Hoagland:
http://chron.com/disp/story.mpl/editorial/outlook/4064520.html
I clipped the heart of the article. Here's the problem:
"The U.N. and the Bush administration also failed to press the Lebanese to live up to their responsibility to deploy forces into the border areas evacuated by Israel in 2000. Instead, Hezbollah moved in its Syrian- and Iranian-supplied rockets and its irregulars..."
And here's the solution:
"
This Israeli campaign will not erase Hezbollah as a force, alas. But a negotiated cease-fire could lead to two important steps:
One would be to put an international military force on Lebanon's border with Syria to police the traffic of rockets and disguised Syrian intelligence units into Lebanon.
The other is to get the Lebanese army finally to take control of its territory in the south and make Lebanon more of a real country again."
He's right...
Wednesday, July 19, 2006
Americans etc Trapped in Lebanon
American government slow to evacuate Americans trapped in Lebanon.
TV reports showed desperate women and children –Americans—who were told they were NOT on the evacuation list.
I am disappointed that our government is not doing more to get American in danger in Lebanon out of there. This is a HOT war already. It will probably get worse before it gets better.
We need envoys over there from our side -- taking care of the trapped Americans and working to keep things from becoming a holocaust. I have conducted kidnapping negotiations in the Middle East (I was in Damascus), and know the area.
That job is best done by Condi (Rice) at the moment…we need to act and act carefully and quickly...
TV reports showed desperate women and children –Americans—who were told they were NOT on the evacuation list.
I am disappointed that our government is not doing more to get American in danger in Lebanon out of there. This is a HOT war already. It will probably get worse before it gets better.
We need envoys over there from our side -- taking care of the trapped Americans and working to keep things from becoming a holocaust. I have conducted kidnapping negotiations in the Middle East (I was in Damascus), and know the area.
That job is best done by Condi (Rice) at the moment…we need to act and act carefully and quickly...
Saturday, July 15, 2006
Time for the Prozac in the Middle East
The Middle East has flared up again – hot shooting between Hezbollah and Israel, rockets and bombs. Hezbollah managed to get a drone to hit an Israeli ship for the first time, killing two and two more missing and probably dead as well. Civilian children were killed today in Lebanon after being bombed, after being turned away from a UN camp. It stinks.I went into Fox 26 on Friday to talk about it. I was asked what the “solution” was. I could only say “Put Prozac in the water” – everyone needs to calm down over there. It was good for a laugh, but tensions are flying as high as the rockets. Hezbollah could have used Iranian technology to hit an Israeli ship for the first time. Iran has a supersonic anti-ship missile if this gets really serious.I am hearing people say we need to be in Lebanon. Apparently they have forgotten what happened when President Reagan sent troops to Beirut in the 1980’s. Hundreds of them died when a suicide truck bomber hit their barracks. Does anyone expect it to be any different this time?The problem here is that Iran is using its puppets in Hezbollah to distract attention from their nuclear program – and they do have missiles that are in range of Israel. It will take a global effort from the G8 to deal with it. We can't do it alone.This could get very ugly. $100 barrel gasoline is not out of the question, since it is now nearly $80.Maybe Prozac isn’t a bad idea after all. Anything is better than a shooting war that spreads across the Middle East. President Bush has to stay focused. The complicating factor is Mr. Kim Jung Il and his strange missile dance. Now Japan is talking about a "pre-emptive strike" on North Korea. That could get a lot of South Koreans civilians killed by North Korea artillery.Buckle up your seat belts folks. As I said on Fox Friday: “This could get out of control very quickly.”
Sunday, July 09, 2006
What Goes Around Comes Around
The GOP Federal judge has ruled that Mr. DeLay must stay on the ballot. In response, I heard DeLay state something like “Only in American can a federal judge order someone to run.” Order?
This statement makes no sense. No federal judge forced DeLay to sign up for the 2006 primary. No judge forced him to withdraw when he saw his chances of winning decline. If DeLay had bowed out before the primary, the voters would have gotten to make the choice – and the cast of thousands now running could have campaigned in the primary.
I guess DeLay is mad that the judge made a decision based on law instead of what is politically expedient, i.e. doing what DeLay wants.
That is the beauty of America – we aren’t controlled by the whims of the powerful, but by a standard set of laws that are supposed to apply to everyone, even Congressmen. Attacking a Republican judge for following the law is classic DeLay, and another reason I wanted to see him removed from further abusing the system. He just doesn’t get it.
I doubt the 5th circuit will overturn the ruling. They are conservative Republicans who follow the law, not the orders of indicted Congress reps who want to game the system. That is what got DeLay into trouble the first place.
It’s time to reap what he has sown…because what goes around comes around.
This statement makes no sense. No federal judge forced DeLay to sign up for the 2006 primary. No judge forced him to withdraw when he saw his chances of winning decline. If DeLay had bowed out before the primary, the voters would have gotten to make the choice – and the cast of thousands now running could have campaigned in the primary.
I guess DeLay is mad that the judge made a decision based on law instead of what is politically expedient, i.e. doing what DeLay wants.
That is the beauty of America – we aren’t controlled by the whims of the powerful, but by a standard set of laws that are supposed to apply to everyone, even Congressmen. Attacking a Republican judge for following the law is classic DeLay, and another reason I wanted to see him removed from further abusing the system. He just doesn’t get it.
I doubt the 5th circuit will overturn the ruling. They are conservative Republicans who follow the law, not the orders of indicted Congress reps who want to game the system. That is what got DeLay into trouble the first place.
It’s time to reap what he has sown…because what goes around comes around.
Tuesday, July 04, 2006
Time to be a beacon of truth justice and respect
I’ve been so busy that I’ve had no time to write in some time. It’s raining on our 4th of July events in Houston today, but after such a long dry spell I still welcome it.
The joke may be on the people running to replace Rep. DeLay – the judge may keep him on the ballot. The irony will be that it was a GOP motion to transfer it to a Federal court with a GOP judge who isn’t going to make a political decision over a judicial one.
The political choice in CD22 is nearing the end – either the judge will keep DeLay on the seat or they will pick someone else. It would be poetic justice to let the Congressman go down in flames on the ballot instead of letting him give the grenade to a replacement who has no money as time runs out. Either way, change is in the air. That is a good thing. CD22 needs an internationally experienced rep in this world of terrorism and global economies -- but it will most likely get the usual suspect, a politician who sends out negative attack ads like the one I just got in the mail and not much else."
We need to start picking people who know more than attack ads and bug killing to sit in a seat that deals with national and global issues daily.
Even Mexico is improving its democracy as our system is gamed by people like the series of recently indicted representatives (in BOTH parties). Mexico’s election reminds me of 2000 – a split electorate. But it is the first true democratic election in Mexico since Mr. Fox broke the PRI monopoly with his election six years ago.
My thoughts and prayers are with the crew of Discovery today as they attempt another launch. As a pilot and someone who grew up on Star Trek I’ve always been a space junkie. I think we need more private space enterprises to really get things moving. Look how much SpaceShipOne accomplished—going to the edge of space-- for $20 million. NASA burps that in a nanosecond.
I don’t expect to be picked for Congress in CD22 – my mission was accomplished when a corrupt official left. One down. A lot more to go. My attention now turns national and global.
I have set up an international law office in Sugar Land Business Park. In my past I have even done international kidnapping negotiations. But I also do a lot of domestic work – profit and nonprofit. You do what you can to help deserving people.
Happy birthday America! We must again become a beacon of truth, justice that is respected around the world. There is much to do…
The joke may be on the people running to replace Rep. DeLay – the judge may keep him on the ballot. The irony will be that it was a GOP motion to transfer it to a Federal court with a GOP judge who isn’t going to make a political decision over a judicial one.
The political choice in CD22 is nearing the end – either the judge will keep DeLay on the seat or they will pick someone else. It would be poetic justice to let the Congressman go down in flames on the ballot instead of letting him give the grenade to a replacement who has no money as time runs out. Either way, change is in the air. That is a good thing. CD22 needs an internationally experienced rep in this world of terrorism and global economies -- but it will most likely get the usual suspect, a politician who sends out negative attack ads like the one I just got in the mail and not much else."
We need to start picking people who know more than attack ads and bug killing to sit in a seat that deals with national and global issues daily.
Even Mexico is improving its democracy as our system is gamed by people like the series of recently indicted representatives (in BOTH parties). Mexico’s election reminds me of 2000 – a split electorate. But it is the first true democratic election in Mexico since Mr. Fox broke the PRI monopoly with his election six years ago.
My thoughts and prayers are with the crew of Discovery today as they attempt another launch. As a pilot and someone who grew up on Star Trek I’ve always been a space junkie. I think we need more private space enterprises to really get things moving. Look how much SpaceShipOne accomplished—going to the edge of space-- for $20 million. NASA burps that in a nanosecond.
I don’t expect to be picked for Congress in CD22 – my mission was accomplished when a corrupt official left. One down. A lot more to go. My attention now turns national and global.
I have set up an international law office in Sugar Land Business Park. In my past I have even done international kidnapping negotiations. But I also do a lot of domestic work – profit and nonprofit. You do what you can to help deserving people.
Happy birthday America! We must again become a beacon of truth, justice that is respected around the world. There is much to do…
Wednesday, June 14, 2006
Congress Votes Itself a Pay Raise in Middle of Worst Deficits
I can't believe it. We have the worst deficits and Congress rewards itself with a pay raise! That is cheeky. It is undeserved - with gas prices hitting record levels along with trillion dollar increases in the debt celing they should have their pay frozen, or cut, but not raised. If I were there, I would vote AGAINST a pay raise until they balance the budget. THAT could generate a return to fiscal sanity. I guess it is just too rough on them to live on $168,000 year, a king's ransom to most people, even in CD22...
Monday, June 12, 2006
What is Needed to Keep Iraq From Becoming a Failed State
Winning Iraq Requires Changes
In order to have any hope of turning the tide in Iraq will require vast training changes in our military. Our troops were trained to be warriors, but were put into a counterinsurgency, which is a totally different conflict.
Just now, three years after the counterinsurgency started, the Pentagon is finishing a new training manual – but it has yet to be put into use. In order to win in Iraq, our troops will need to interact with the population in new ways. Right now in mess halls in Iraq our troops don’t intermingle with the Iraqi troops – that does not bode well for future success.
The Iraq counterinsurgency feeds off the mistakes made when troops don’t have the training designed for the environment in which they are working. For success in Iraq, our troops have to be part warrior and part Peace Corps. It requires a 21st Century soldier who knows how to getting rid of terrorists while avoiding killing innocent civilians which gives the wrong impression of who we are. It will mean our soldiers get more training in local customs and language – it means giving US Special Forces training to national guardsmen.
Why is this important? Because if Iraq becomes a failed State, it will be a greater threat to global security, especially America’s security, than it is today. Only by getting the Pentagon to upgrade training of our overworked units in Iraq ASAP will have the most direct potential benefit of anything we could do at the moment. We have too much to lose not to put everything possible solution into action in Iraq. Just killing Zaqawi’s is not enough.
So why hasn’t Congress insisted on this training years ago?
I say that as one of the few people who saw 9 11 coming and warned about it…
In order to have any hope of turning the tide in Iraq will require vast training changes in our military. Our troops were trained to be warriors, but were put into a counterinsurgency, which is a totally different conflict.
Just now, three years after the counterinsurgency started, the Pentagon is finishing a new training manual – but it has yet to be put into use. In order to win in Iraq, our troops will need to interact with the population in new ways. Right now in mess halls in Iraq our troops don’t intermingle with the Iraqi troops – that does not bode well for future success.
The Iraq counterinsurgency feeds off the mistakes made when troops don’t have the training designed for the environment in which they are working. For success in Iraq, our troops have to be part warrior and part Peace Corps. It requires a 21st Century soldier who knows how to getting rid of terrorists while avoiding killing innocent civilians which gives the wrong impression of who we are. It will mean our soldiers get more training in local customs and language – it means giving US Special Forces training to national guardsmen.
Why is this important? Because if Iraq becomes a failed State, it will be a greater threat to global security, especially America’s security, than it is today. Only by getting the Pentagon to upgrade training of our overworked units in Iraq ASAP will have the most direct potential benefit of anything we could do at the moment. We have too much to lose not to put everything possible solution into action in Iraq. Just killing Zaqawi’s is not enough.
So why hasn’t Congress insisted on this training years ago?
I say that as one of the few people who saw 9 11 coming and warned about it…
Saturday, June 10, 2006
Legal Shenanigans Could Backfire
The Democrats have gotten a temporary restraining order to keep Mr. DeLay on the ballot for November. A hearing on a permanent injunction to keep it that way will be heard later this month.
They need to keep in mind that being smart legally could blow up in their faces. If DeLay gets past the Austin indictment and pulls out a squeaker with Lampson, then that strategy will blow up in their face.
As it is, DeLay has set up a loss for his replacement. The precinct chairs are moving at the speed of a glacier. By the time the sacrificial lamb is chosen, he or she will have only three (3) months to cover parts of four counties in CD22, a very diverse district. I’ve run in it four times and I still don’t feel that I’ve covered CD22 adequately -- so how people think they can do it in 3-4 months is wishful thinking at best. The candidate will also be two million dollars behind the Democrat Lampson in fundraising, and who knows what skeletons or embarrassing statements will come out of the closet. Only DeLay has the time in district and access to dollars to match it. If his legal troubles in Austin are satisfactorily resolved, he’s home free.
So using the courts to keep DeLay on the ballot could boomerang—the outcome could be the return of Tom DeLay (who will laugh in their faces and never leave at that point)...
They need to keep in mind that being smart legally could blow up in their faces. If DeLay gets past the Austin indictment and pulls out a squeaker with Lampson, then that strategy will blow up in their face.
As it is, DeLay has set up a loss for his replacement. The precinct chairs are moving at the speed of a glacier. By the time the sacrificial lamb is chosen, he or she will have only three (3) months to cover parts of four counties in CD22, a very diverse district. I’ve run in it four times and I still don’t feel that I’ve covered CD22 adequately -- so how people think they can do it in 3-4 months is wishful thinking at best. The candidate will also be two million dollars behind the Democrat Lampson in fundraising, and who knows what skeletons or embarrassing statements will come out of the closet. Only DeLay has the time in district and access to dollars to match it. If his legal troubles in Austin are satisfactorily resolved, he’s home free.
So using the courts to keep DeLay on the ballot could boomerang—the outcome could be the return of Tom DeLay (who will laugh in their faces and never leave at that point)...
Friday, June 09, 2006
Monday, June 05, 2006
Mr. Risk Goes to Washington
No, not me – Business Week is referring to Mr. Paulson, the new Treasury Secretary. They say he is well suited to today’s environment, which is at a dangerous point:
“Both liberal and conservative economists warn that the bulging trade deficit, now roughly 6% of gross domestic product, poses a danger of sending the dollar plunging and causing a financial meltdown. The federal budget deficit for 2006 will hit at least $300 billion. And current projections call for Social Security and Medicare to run up enormous deficits in the long run.”
Check out the article. It makes sense. This line also jumped out at me:
“Facing intense competition from around the world, the only way the American economy can thrive is through risk-taking. Indeed, some economists have characterized the U.S. as a giant venture capital fund that sucks in money from overseas and invests it in high-risk, high-return projects.”
Bottom line: There are greater issues facing us then most politicians and voters realize. We will need more “Mr./Ms. Risk” types in leadership to deal with these global issues that impact our future. But to have value, they have to know global trade and international finance to avoid pushing the wrong button that leads to disaster instead of opportunity...I can't say that I see a lot of those types around. Know anyone?
“Both liberal and conservative economists warn that the bulging trade deficit, now roughly 6% of gross domestic product, poses a danger of sending the dollar plunging and causing a financial meltdown. The federal budget deficit for 2006 will hit at least $300 billion. And current projections call for Social Security and Medicare to run up enormous deficits in the long run.”
Check out the article. It makes sense. This line also jumped out at me:
“Facing intense competition from around the world, the only way the American economy can thrive is through risk-taking. Indeed, some economists have characterized the U.S. as a giant venture capital fund that sucks in money from overseas and invests it in high-risk, high-return projects.”
Bottom line: There are greater issues facing us then most politicians and voters realize. We will need more “Mr./Ms. Risk” types in leadership to deal with these global issues that impact our future. But to have value, they have to know global trade and international finance to avoid pushing the wrong button that leads to disaster instead of opportunity...I can't say that I see a lot of those types around. Know anyone?
Mr. Risk Goes to Washington
No, not me – Business Week is referring to Mr. Paulson, the new Treasury Secretary. They say he is well suited to today’s environment, which is at a dangerous point:
“Both liberal and conservative economists warn that the bulging trade deficit, now roughly 6% of gross domestic product, poses a danger of sending the dollar plunging and causing a financial meltdown. The federal budget deficit for 2006 will hit at least $300 billion. And current projections call for Social Security and Medicare to run up enormous deficits in the long run.”
Check out the article. It makes sense. This line also jumped out at me:
“Facing intense competition from around the world, the only way the American economy can thrive is through risk-taking. Indeed, some economists have characterized the U.S. as a giant venture capital fund that sucks in money from overseas and invests it in high-risk, high-return projects.”
Bottom line: There are greater issues facing us then most politicians and voters realize. We will need more “Mr./Ms. Risk” types in leadership to deal with these global issues that impact our future. But to have value, they have to know global trade and international finance to avoid pushing the wrong button that leads to disaster instead of opportunity...I can't say that I see a lot of those types around. Know anyone?
“Both liberal and conservative economists warn that the bulging trade deficit, now roughly 6% of gross domestic product, poses a danger of sending the dollar plunging and causing a financial meltdown. The federal budget deficit for 2006 will hit at least $300 billion. And current projections call for Social Security and Medicare to run up enormous deficits in the long run.”
Check out the article. It makes sense. This line also jumped out at me:
“Facing intense competition from around the world, the only way the American economy can thrive is through risk-taking. Indeed, some economists have characterized the U.S. as a giant venture capital fund that sucks in money from overseas and invests it in high-risk, high-return projects.”
Bottom line: There are greater issues facing us then most politicians and voters realize. We will need more “Mr./Ms. Risk” types in leadership to deal with these global issues that impact our future. But to have value, they have to know global trade and international finance to avoid pushing the wrong button that leads to disaster instead of opportunity...I can't say that I see a lot of those types around. Know anyone?
Wednesday, May 31, 2006
From Drought to Flooding - and random thoughts
We needed rain, it was so dry. Now TV is reporting that people’s homes are flooding in some areas around Houston after a couple days of rain. It has rained steadily all day.
We enter Hurricane Season tomorrow, so this is a good time to make sure your family has an evacuation plan and supplies “just in case” we get another Rita or worse. Hey, we live on the coast so we have to be ready for hurricanes every year – they are the earth’s mechanism to transfer the heat build up near the equator. The hotter we get, the more intense they will be. But it sure beats worrying about earthquakes, which aren’t so visible. We just need to make sure we can get through a Category 4 or 5 if it hits us like Katrina hit New Orleans. Roofs blow off at 110 mph and Rita hit 160 before slowing down last year.
Are we prepared? For some things we are more prepared than in the past, but others remain totally unprepared. Our hurricane response will be better (unless we are the ones who get hit and sustain major damage), but the latest list issued by the Homeland Security Dept on a likely terrorist attack -- includes Houston. It wouldn’t take a lot of imagination to figure out why.
But even a non-terrorist act could show how unprepared we are. For example, we live within the shadow of the South Texas Nuclear Plant, yet we have no system in place to deal with a radiation leak if there was just a mechanical failure (like Three Mile Island). Mechanical failure, in fact, is more likely than a terrorist attack on the plant. Ironically, Nuclear power offers one of the few sources of new power that avoids the global warming impact of coal plants.
As a former farmer, I still enjoy rain, especially after a long dry spell. There are worse things in the world.
We could really be building a bold new system to produce alternative fuels with less pollution to break our oil addiction and reduce security threats if our leaders made it a priority like the first moon shot. Our national and local security depend on it…Energy independence is as much a part of our security as border control...
We enter Hurricane Season tomorrow, so this is a good time to make sure your family has an evacuation plan and supplies “just in case” we get another Rita or worse. Hey, we live on the coast so we have to be ready for hurricanes every year – they are the earth’s mechanism to transfer the heat build up near the equator. The hotter we get, the more intense they will be. But it sure beats worrying about earthquakes, which aren’t so visible. We just need to make sure we can get through a Category 4 or 5 if it hits us like Katrina hit New Orleans. Roofs blow off at 110 mph and Rita hit 160 before slowing down last year.
Are we prepared? For some things we are more prepared than in the past, but others remain totally unprepared. Our hurricane response will be better (unless we are the ones who get hit and sustain major damage), but the latest list issued by the Homeland Security Dept on a likely terrorist attack -- includes Houston. It wouldn’t take a lot of imagination to figure out why.
But even a non-terrorist act could show how unprepared we are. For example, we live within the shadow of the South Texas Nuclear Plant, yet we have no system in place to deal with a radiation leak if there was just a mechanical failure (like Three Mile Island). Mechanical failure, in fact, is more likely than a terrorist attack on the plant. Ironically, Nuclear power offers one of the few sources of new power that avoids the global warming impact of coal plants.
As a former farmer, I still enjoy rain, especially after a long dry spell. There are worse things in the world.
We could really be building a bold new system to produce alternative fuels with less pollution to break our oil addiction and reduce security threats if our leaders made it a priority like the first moon shot. Our national and local security depend on it…Energy independence is as much a part of our security as border control...
Tuesday, May 30, 2006
Death Brings Both Aisles Together
Today my wife and I went to Sen. Bentsen’s funeral, which proved to be a bipartisan affair. It was hard to walk without bumping into someone who didn’t need a name tag – Mayor White (D) stood next to Governor Perry (R) -- I even noticed Perry whisper something in White’s ear. Two feet away, I bumped into Sen. Cornyn (R). On the other side of the dessert tray I found myself face to face with Hillary Clinton (D). Former Prez Bill sat outside on the porch as family and friends surrounded Mrs. Bentsen.
I started to leave, rounded a corner and ran into the press. One of them quipped: “Now everyone is here except Steve Stockman.” LOL. I said that I’d been surprised that Mr. DeLay had come. Instead of flapping my lips to the cameras, I let Kay Bailey (R) and Luci Baines Johnson (D) give two of the best statements I have ever heard. Kay Bailey said Bentsen was “the last of an era” and she longed for the return of civilized bi-partisan statesmanship that he represented. Luci Baines gave a tribute from the heart. Both were impressive.
A return to statesmanship is what we should start picking for office.
As we left a reporter came running out and asked my wife for her name. Apparently they took a photo of her talking with a former Presidential candidate. Well, that should be interesting if it's published...
Sen. Bentsen and Jack Cato – you are two good men --statesmen giants that will be greatly missed.
I started to leave, rounded a corner and ran into the press. One of them quipped: “Now everyone is here except Steve Stockman.” LOL. I said that I’d been surprised that Mr. DeLay had come. Instead of flapping my lips to the cameras, I let Kay Bailey (R) and Luci Baines Johnson (D) give two of the best statements I have ever heard. Kay Bailey said Bentsen was “the last of an era” and she longed for the return of civilized bi-partisan statesmanship that he represented. Luci Baines gave a tribute from the heart. Both were impressive.
A return to statesmanship is what we should start picking for office.
As we left a reporter came running out and asked my wife for her name. Apparently they took a photo of her talking with a former Presidential candidate. Well, that should be interesting if it's published...
Sen. Bentsen and Jack Cato – you are two good men --statesmen giants that will be greatly missed.
Monday, May 29, 2006
On Memorial Day - and The Death of Common Sense
I arrived at the Sugar Land Memorial Day event today just at 10 a.m. --in time to see people sitting on very expensive indoor chairs on the plaza (but under no cover). The weather folks said it would be at least a 50% chance of rain and as I drove over there I noticed a very black cloud building up to the Northwest of Sugar Land. So when I walked into SL Square I was surprised to see that there wasn’t a tent over the expensive chairs in the middle section (or why someone hadn’t rented plastic chairs since this was a Veteran’s Memorial not a fancy schmanzy River oaks graduation ceremony). I had left my expensive PDA in the car –just in case.
Within minutes those beautiful chairs were being abandoned as a sudden downpour opened up -- on the citizens, dignitaries, the Congressman and some wannabe replacement Congressmen who stood like statues in their thousand dollar suits on the marble platform, above the crowd and in the rain -- getting totally soaked as the rain fell. I had just witnessed the death of common sense. It was not an inspiring moment.
I watched from under one of the side tents, wearing a (dry) red-and-white shirt with a fold-up umbrella in my back pocket. The tent had a waterfall cascading over its side --and was suddenly more than full.
The whole event reminded me of the recent column by Dr. Rich Lucas on “The Death of Common Sense.” In front of me was the leadership in charge of protecting us and planning ahead for our nation and city – getting soaking wet because no one planned for rain. Worse, only after getting completely wet did they move undercover and suspend the program while workers appeared and pulled tarps over the (already wet) expensive speakers, and piled up the (already soaked) chairs. The people who had abandoned the chairs watched as they huddled under the awnings of stores on the edge of the square. It reminded me how vulnerable they are in other ways, since no one has even prepared them for disasters such as a leak at the South Texas Nuclear plant, despite the fact we lie within its radiation kill zone.
Constable Nehls had already presented the disabled veteran --that was the important part-- so instead of staying to hear the wet Congressman, I dodged the rain and went into the Sharper Image on the corner of the square to check out the gadgets –maybe I’d spot something that will come in handy, like the Pocket TV I bought there a year ago and used for updates during the last storm when power went out at our house for several hours. It worked great and comes in handy for news broadcasts when I’m stuck in traffic.
A lady came in and said, “Tom DeLay is speaking but no one can hear him.” I couldn’t help but think how ironic that was. Do I want a wet Congressman who is under indictment giving me advice on security? Ummmm.
Perhaps you should ask all the ordinary folks who were there today -- who found their comfortable seats were an illusion. They trusted their leadership and yet they ended up wet and huddled next to a building in the rain. Should they follow anyone who would stand in the rain in an expensive suit? If they do, then it's time for that "Twilight Zone" music...
What we really need right now is a resurrection of Dr. Lucas’ Mr. Common Sense --in our government, schools, businesses, in the way we live, period! We need leaders who prepare for future rains – someone who is fiscally responsible, ethically straight, has the common sense to either put up a tent or get out of the rain and won’t leave the people without a roof in the next storm…Know anyone?
Within minutes those beautiful chairs were being abandoned as a sudden downpour opened up -- on the citizens, dignitaries, the Congressman and some wannabe replacement Congressmen who stood like statues in their thousand dollar suits on the marble platform, above the crowd and in the rain -- getting totally soaked as the rain fell. I had just witnessed the death of common sense. It was not an inspiring moment.
I watched from under one of the side tents, wearing a (dry) red-and-white shirt with a fold-up umbrella in my back pocket. The tent had a waterfall cascading over its side --and was suddenly more than full.
The whole event reminded me of the recent column by Dr. Rich Lucas on “The Death of Common Sense.” In front of me was the leadership in charge of protecting us and planning ahead for our nation and city – getting soaking wet because no one planned for rain. Worse, only after getting completely wet did they move undercover and suspend the program while workers appeared and pulled tarps over the (already wet) expensive speakers, and piled up the (already soaked) chairs. The people who had abandoned the chairs watched as they huddled under the awnings of stores on the edge of the square. It reminded me how vulnerable they are in other ways, since no one has even prepared them for disasters such as a leak at the South Texas Nuclear plant, despite the fact we lie within its radiation kill zone.
Constable Nehls had already presented the disabled veteran --that was the important part-- so instead of staying to hear the wet Congressman, I dodged the rain and went into the Sharper Image on the corner of the square to check out the gadgets –maybe I’d spot something that will come in handy, like the Pocket TV I bought there a year ago and used for updates during the last storm when power went out at our house for several hours. It worked great and comes in handy for news broadcasts when I’m stuck in traffic.
A lady came in and said, “Tom DeLay is speaking but no one can hear him.” I couldn’t help but think how ironic that was. Do I want a wet Congressman who is under indictment giving me advice on security? Ummmm.
Perhaps you should ask all the ordinary folks who were there today -- who found their comfortable seats were an illusion. They trusted their leadership and yet they ended up wet and huddled next to a building in the rain. Should they follow anyone who would stand in the rain in an expensive suit? If they do, then it's time for that "Twilight Zone" music...
What we really need right now is a resurrection of Dr. Lucas’ Mr. Common Sense --in our government, schools, businesses, in the way we live, period! We need leaders who prepare for future rains – someone who is fiscally responsible, ethically straight, has the common sense to either put up a tent or get out of the rain and won’t leave the people without a roof in the next storm…Know anyone?
Saturday, May 27, 2006
Now for Something Completely Different
Now for Something Completely Different
If you’ve read the Brazos River site about the candidate forum to replace Tom DeLay in CD 22 you get the feeling that it was a scene from the clone wars – lots of candidates looking the same and saying the same. “The Clones” said pretty much the same thing. It’s time someone told the public some honest truth for a change. Now for something completely different (i.e. Time for a reality check).
Immigration: All the candidates favored throwing out the 12 million folks cutting our grass and working those nasty jobs in meatpacking plants, while making them felons. Well I suggest we see how many of you Americans are going to rush in and lug 200 lb sides of beef in meatpackig plants or cut the grass or build the homes you live in before we do that.
Sure, throw these low paid rascals out so we could end up with overgrown yards and become vegetarians out of necessity because there is no beef! None of them are coming in as CEO of Enron or Wal Mart. I think we can have guest workers without necessarily making everyone a citizen. I know this: the Berlin Wall never worked and never will this one. The solution is getting countries to grow their economies instead of dumping people on us. Until that happens, the problem remains the same, wall or no wall.
None of the candidates wanted to have a commuter rail in Ft. Bend – even though it would take 50,000 to 100,000 cars off the roads everyday—and we are about to DOUBLE in population the next 20 years. Duh! Roads aren’t exactly cost effective either but we need them, and rail. A line to Richmond Rosenberg would also open up their historic downtowns to Houston daytripers on weekends.
No one said that spending has gone UP 25% under a GOP majority in Congress. How conservative is that?
I didn’t attend – my wife insisted I take her to the ballet instead. Maybe that wasn’t a bad idea.
Mr. DeLay has set it up such a mess that his seat could easily switch to a Democrat—especially with Steve Stockman pulling GOP votes and even being a potential player in the end when a plurality vote is possible. Isn’t that ironic?
It’s clear that whoever gets the GOP nod may find all they end up with is a mummy’s curse “YOU lost the seat!” Then he/she is politically dead and two years from now will be the real race.
Who wants to be the one to lose this for the GOP? Please step forward. The only way to win this for the GOP is to give some honestly better answers then those offered last Thursday night…only then does the GOP have a chance...I am offering a DVD to Precinct Chairs which documents my warnings about 9 11 before 9 11...we need honesty and expertise more than a politician right now.
If you’ve read the Brazos River site about the candidate forum to replace Tom DeLay in CD 22 you get the feeling that it was a scene from the clone wars – lots of candidates looking the same and saying the same. “The Clones” said pretty much the same thing. It’s time someone told the public some honest truth for a change. Now for something completely different (i.e. Time for a reality check).
Immigration: All the candidates favored throwing out the 12 million folks cutting our grass and working those nasty jobs in meatpacking plants, while making them felons. Well I suggest we see how many of you Americans are going to rush in and lug 200 lb sides of beef in meatpackig plants or cut the grass or build the homes you live in before we do that.
Sure, throw these low paid rascals out so we could end up with overgrown yards and become vegetarians out of necessity because there is no beef! None of them are coming in as CEO of Enron or Wal Mart. I think we can have guest workers without necessarily making everyone a citizen. I know this: the Berlin Wall never worked and never will this one. The solution is getting countries to grow their economies instead of dumping people on us. Until that happens, the problem remains the same, wall or no wall.
None of the candidates wanted to have a commuter rail in Ft. Bend – even though it would take 50,000 to 100,000 cars off the roads everyday—and we are about to DOUBLE in population the next 20 years. Duh! Roads aren’t exactly cost effective either but we need them, and rail. A line to Richmond Rosenberg would also open up their historic downtowns to Houston daytripers on weekends.
No one said that spending has gone UP 25% under a GOP majority in Congress. How conservative is that?
I didn’t attend – my wife insisted I take her to the ballet instead. Maybe that wasn’t a bad idea.
Mr. DeLay has set it up such a mess that his seat could easily switch to a Democrat—especially with Steve Stockman pulling GOP votes and even being a potential player in the end when a plurality vote is possible. Isn’t that ironic?
It’s clear that whoever gets the GOP nod may find all they end up with is a mummy’s curse “YOU lost the seat!” Then he/she is politically dead and two years from now will be the real race.
Who wants to be the one to lose this for the GOP? Please step forward. The only way to win this for the GOP is to give some honestly better answers then those offered last Thursday night…only then does the GOP have a chance...I am offering a DVD to Precinct Chairs which documents my warnings about 9 11 before 9 11...we need honesty and expertise more than a politician right now.
Friday, May 26, 2006
Vets deserve better than this
Reports are that the 26 million Veterans name that were stolen from a laptop will cost hundreds of millions of dollars as their data is sold and used for credit scams.
Yet the entire incident could have been avoided with one or two simple software programs on the market that would have automatically destroyed the data on a stolen laptop -- or would have notified the sender the location of the device (just do a Google search for "Laptop Security Software" to get a list of options).
What is amazing is that the VA and others like it did not have something as simple as this simple, inexpensive "off the shelf" software as standard equipment on their computers to avoid exactly this kind of disaster. With just a little bit of security thinking by our government, a thief would end up only with a blank hard drive instead of 26 million veterans names at risk. Duh!
Yet the entire incident could have been avoided with one or two simple software programs on the market that would have automatically destroyed the data on a stolen laptop -- or would have notified the sender the location of the device (just do a Google search for "Laptop Security Software" to get a list of options).
What is amazing is that the VA and others like it did not have something as simple as this simple, inexpensive "off the shelf" software as standard equipment on their computers to avoid exactly this kind of disaster. With just a little bit of security thinking by our government, a thief would end up only with a blank hard drive instead of 26 million veterans names at risk. Duh!
Enron Verdict - Justice
There is a Chinese saying that you have to "kill a chicken to scare the monkeys." The conviction of Ken Lay and Jeff Skilling shows that the American justice is still alive and well, especially when the wealthy get convicted despite spending millions in legal fees. They are the "chickens" and their conviction sends a messge to other crooked CEO's. The collapse of Enron destroyed a lot of people and their financial security. One of them goes to my church with his wife. They have zero retirement despite decades working for Enron. So Kenny Boy and Jeffy Boy got exactly what they deserved. The same system needs to convict some of our crooked Congress reps (both Democrat and Republican) to scare the monkeys.
Monday, May 15, 2006
Immigration Flaws
I was talking to an employer about immigration. He said that if you call social security to try to verify an employee can legally work here - forget it. They can't tell you if someone is legal or not. We have computers that can tell if your credit card is working, but there is no such computer to verify someone's social security number. Without the ability to have employers screening for illegals, there is no way the situation can improve. Having the National Guard at the border has no impact on 12 million illegals already living here. I suggest the government computerize the system so social security numbers can be verified by employers. Right now, employers are told to "have a copy of their drivers license and social security number in a file" and that is considered "good enough."
Thursday, May 11, 2006
Brazil’s Example – Breaking an Addiction
Saturday, May 06, 2006
No Intelligence on Iran - Same Song, Different Verse
Want to know why we should have someone with global experience in Congress? Read this. Our CIA doesn’t have a clue what is going on in Iran – and Congress has done nothing to put human assets on the ground or require them. We have this insane idea that taking photos with satellites tells us what we need to know. We don’t even have more than a handfull of people who understand or speak Persian in the CIA (Iran is not an Arabic country).
So what was Congress doing about it?
Some were taking trips to Scotland with lobbyists… Most believed the bad intelligence on Iraq that led to major mistakes that is still costing American soldiers lives. Doesn’t that make you feel safer? It’s about time Congress funded real human intelligence – satellites won’t cut it. Neither will another Congress rep who is clueless on these issues.
So what was Congress doing about it?
Some were taking trips to Scotland with lobbyists… Most believed the bad intelligence on Iraq that led to major mistakes that is still costing American soldiers lives. Doesn’t that make you feel safer? It’s about time Congress funded real human intelligence – satellites won’t cut it. Neither will another Congress rep who is clueless on these issues.
Friday, May 05, 2006
Immigration Solution is Outside Our Borders
The only real solution to immigration is to get countries like Mexico to breath life into their economies so people don't have to leave to feed their families. The pyramid economy (where only a few rich are at the top and everyone else fights for the crumbs left below) doesn't work - and we get the aftermath. It is in our best interest to solve this problem at its root, by encouraging countries to grow from the bottom up, because all the walls in the world won't keep out people desperate to feed their kids.
Thursday, May 04, 2006
Fjetland, Norway
I received an email from my brother, who discovered on Google Earth that there is a town in Norway named "Fjetland." No kidding.
Saturday, April 29, 2006
Elections and Fairness
Elections and Fairness
I just found out that my name has been dropped from the list of potential candidates to replace Tom DeLay on the GOP ballot. They are sending out 18,000 “ballots” to vote on a replacement and my name will not appear.
Not that I thought I had a snowflake’s chance of getting picked, but it is the principle of the thing that bothers me. Apparently some blogger wrote that I was no longer interested and apparently the County Chair (Thode) dropped me based on that – it was certainly not based on any email or letter or phone call to him from me.
This happened once before when I ran in 2002 – my name was dropped from the primary ballot when I challenged Mr. DeLay. I had to sue to get back on. I won, but by that time the election was upon us. I got 20% with no campaigning, no ads or TV. Mr. Campbell had to spend six figures this time to beat that percentage, but not by much.
The only thing I’ve said since DeLay announced his resignation was that if there was a Special Election then they could count me out. I wanted no part of a dozen candidates running in a Special Election. But the Governor has declared that there isn’t going to be a Special Election, despite the fact that the U.S. Constitution calls for it. Apparently it is to be followed only when it guarantees the result you want, and not otherwise.
So, we set yet another great example for the people of Iraq how (not) to run a democracy.
Perhaps I should just find a job with a corporation – even the lowest corporate ethics would be a major step up from what I’ve found in politics so far.
I just found out that my name has been dropped from the list of potential candidates to replace Tom DeLay on the GOP ballot. They are sending out 18,000 “ballots” to vote on a replacement and my name will not appear.
Not that I thought I had a snowflake’s chance of getting picked, but it is the principle of the thing that bothers me. Apparently some blogger wrote that I was no longer interested and apparently the County Chair (Thode) dropped me based on that – it was certainly not based on any email or letter or phone call to him from me.
This happened once before when I ran in 2002 – my name was dropped from the primary ballot when I challenged Mr. DeLay. I had to sue to get back on. I won, but by that time the election was upon us. I got 20% with no campaigning, no ads or TV. Mr. Campbell had to spend six figures this time to beat that percentage, but not by much.
The only thing I’ve said since DeLay announced his resignation was that if there was a Special Election then they could count me out. I wanted no part of a dozen candidates running in a Special Election. But the Governor has declared that there isn’t going to be a Special Election, despite the fact that the U.S. Constitution calls for it. Apparently it is to be followed only when it guarantees the result you want, and not otherwise.
So, we set yet another great example for the people of Iraq how (not) to run a democracy.
Perhaps I should just find a job with a corporation – even the lowest corporate ethics would be a major step up from what I’ve found in politics so far.
Friday, April 28, 2006
White House Gets Interested in Better Gas Mileage
I feel vindicated. Finally, the White House is suddenly interested in conservation and higher gas mileage standards. It took $3/gallon gas to wake them up. Better late than never...
Wednesday, April 26, 2006
The Gas "Boycott" Won't Work - Try something that will
People are sending around an email encouraging motorists to boycott buying gas for a day as a “protest.”
Get real folks – like it is really going to make a difference if you don’t fill up your SUV for a day!
If you really are concerned about gas prices then do the following:
Buy a hybrid vehicle (or a car that gets better mileage than your current one)
Ride a bus/vanpool to work
Write Congress to boost fuel mileage standards for autos by 50%
We Americans waste so much energy, yet we put little effort into conservation. We need to wake up because oil is a finite resource. The sooner we develop alternative fuels and find clever ways to use less of it, the better. We don't need a phony war on gas or an ineffective boycott.
Get real folks – like it is really going to make a difference if you don’t fill up your SUV for a day!
If you really are concerned about gas prices then do the following:
Buy a hybrid vehicle (or a car that gets better mileage than your current one)
Ride a bus/vanpool to work
Write Congress to boost fuel mileage standards for autos by 50%
We Americans waste so much energy, yet we put little effort into conservation. We need to wake up because oil is a finite resource. The sooner we develop alternative fuels and find clever ways to use less of it, the better. We don't need a phony war on gas or an ineffective boycott.
Monday, April 24, 2006
Technology on the Run - Just Say No to "Surfing While Driving"
Technology is amazing.
I recently bought a Treo 700 – basically a pocket PC and phone combination, and I love it. Instead of dragging a laptop around and finding a place with a “hotspot” now I can pull this device out of my pocket at a café –check my calendar, check email or go online to see what is happening in the world. It works anywhere, anytime. I also switched to Verizon after too many dropped calls on my other service, which shall remain nameless.
I wish I had this device sooner. I missed some appointments before, including an important campaign radio interview because I was on the run and forgot to write down an Outlook calendar event to the book I keep in my car.
Now I just plug in the phone and it syncs automatically with Outlook so I am updated. And it works both ways. If I add an event on the phone calendar, it updates the desktop calendar when I plug it in--automatically.
Technology is our future. Now, if it would only help me locate gasoline that costs about $2 a gallon! For that, we need some technology to double our cars’ gas mileage! That may take awhile, but I believe technology can make it happen.
What we have sure beats the technology we had 20 years ago…I just have to remember not to “surf while driving”….!
I recently bought a Treo 700 – basically a pocket PC and phone combination, and I love it. Instead of dragging a laptop around and finding a place with a “hotspot” now I can pull this device out of my pocket at a café –check my calendar, check email or go online to see what is happening in the world. It works anywhere, anytime. I also switched to Verizon after too many dropped calls on my other service, which shall remain nameless.
I wish I had this device sooner. I missed some appointments before, including an important campaign radio interview because I was on the run and forgot to write down an Outlook calendar event to the book I keep in my car.
Now I just plug in the phone and it syncs automatically with Outlook so I am updated. And it works both ways. If I add an event on the phone calendar, it updates the desktop calendar when I plug it in--automatically.
Technology is our future. Now, if it would only help me locate gasoline that costs about $2 a gallon! For that, we need some technology to double our cars’ gas mileage! That may take awhile, but I believe technology can make it happen.
What we have sure beats the technology we had 20 years ago…I just have to remember not to “surf while driving”….!
Friday, April 21, 2006
Girls Deserve Better Than This
I was just reading that in India about 10 million girl fetuses were aborted in the past two decades. Sonograms are used to determine the sex of a child – if it is a girl it is often aborted. The government has tried to stop it but it is an old habit
China, with its “one child” policy has the same problem – and a girl shortage as a result.
This is a disturbing situation. These two countries constitute nearly 40% of the world’s total population and will play major roles in our lifetimes. I have been to China and India, many times. They both have changed dramatically in the past 20 years, but this is something that has NOT changed for the better.
It is time to stop killing babies that someone thinks is the “wrong” sex. The practice is as wrong as the wife burnings in India. I’d like to see our policymakers make this one of the issues in our future relations with these important countries…
China, with its “one child” policy has the same problem – and a girl shortage as a result.
This is a disturbing situation. These two countries constitute nearly 40% of the world’s total population and will play major roles in our lifetimes. I have been to China and India, many times. They both have changed dramatically in the past 20 years, but this is something that has NOT changed for the better.
It is time to stop killing babies that someone thinks is the “wrong” sex. The practice is as wrong as the wife burnings in India. I’d like to see our policymakers make this one of the issues in our future relations with these important countries…
Wednesday, April 19, 2006
Emergency Planning - Pick One, NOT a Committee
I have to agree with Gov. Perry, who said that our area needs to pick ONE person to be in charge to manage future catastrophes that may strike the region, such as another hurricane.
I can’t imagine having another Hurricane Katrina or Rita coming our way and having to get a 15-person committee to make a decision! Have you ever seen a committee of 15 decide ANYTHING in a TIMELY manner? The storm would be here and gone before that happened.
We need to pick 1 person to be in charge to manage any future disasters – anyone, that is, other than Michael Brown (former FEMA director). We don’t need someone worrying about how his shirt looks on TV when a CAT 4 hurricane is blowing through…
I can’t imagine having another Hurricane Katrina or Rita coming our way and having to get a 15-person committee to make a decision! Have you ever seen a committee of 15 decide ANYTHING in a TIMELY manner? The storm would be here and gone before that happened.
We need to pick 1 person to be in charge to manage any future disasters – anyone, that is, other than Michael Brown (former FEMA director). We don’t need someone worrying about how his shirt looks on TV when a CAT 4 hurricane is blowing through…
Tuesday, April 18, 2006
Texas Blackouts - Record heat means trouble
Record heat yesterday – and it is only mid-April! Over 100 degrees in parts of the State – and rolling blackouts in Texas! How strange is that? Gas prices are surging.
Since the election ended, my legal practice has really taken off. Houston is part of a boom in real estate. Our area is expected to double in size the next 20 years, so opportunity is knocking (no pun intended) all over the place. One man bought a house in the Woodlands for $200,000 and excitedly told his friends that back in Connecticut the same house would be $1 million! Yep, more Yankees will be moving south!
I say bring them on. Except now the “Yankees” are from all over the world. Most Houston real estate is being financed from foreign sources – without it the boom would be a bust. This record heat spells trouble - we could have another mean hurricane season. We lost a month or more of business last year with the Katrina/Rita scenario. It was 100 years ago today that an earthquake struck San Francisco. At least you can see a hurricane coming and get the heck out of the way (as long as 2 million people don't try it at the same time).
OK, a word about politics. I got an email a couple days ago from a Ft. Bend precinct chair regarding the replacement of Rep. DeLay when he resigns (in June?). Apparently they are getting hit from a lot of wannabe Congressmen/women who want to jump to the front of the line to be “the chosen one.” It should be an interesting fight. Too bad the people don't get to make the pick as envisioned by our founding fathers...
Since the election ended, my legal practice has really taken off. Houston is part of a boom in real estate. Our area is expected to double in size the next 20 years, so opportunity is knocking (no pun intended) all over the place. One man bought a house in the Woodlands for $200,000 and excitedly told his friends that back in Connecticut the same house would be $1 million! Yep, more Yankees will be moving south!
I say bring them on. Except now the “Yankees” are from all over the world. Most Houston real estate is being financed from foreign sources – without it the boom would be a bust. This record heat spells trouble - we could have another mean hurricane season. We lost a month or more of business last year with the Katrina/Rita scenario. It was 100 years ago today that an earthquake struck San Francisco. At least you can see a hurricane coming and get the heck out of the way (as long as 2 million people don't try it at the same time).
OK, a word about politics. I got an email a couple days ago from a Ft. Bend precinct chair regarding the replacement of Rep. DeLay when he resigns (in June?). Apparently they are getting hit from a lot of wannabe Congressmen/women who want to jump to the front of the line to be “the chosen one.” It should be an interesting fight. Too bad the people don't get to make the pick as envisioned by our founding fathers...
Wednesday, April 12, 2006
International Justice - Building Democracy a Nail at a Time
Some of the commentators seem to think I should "move on."
They clearly don’t know my real objective is more than about one guy (i.e., DeLay. It is all about International Justice. Don't forget I have been an international negotiator worldwide. I've seen a lot of injustice globally, not just in District 22.
Mr. DeLay just happened to be my local corrupt official that needed to be challenged long before now. He is but one part of our government system that needs replacement and improvement. The improvements need to be more than domestic. They need to be global.
For example, little (i.e., nothing) has been done about the international criminal rings that promise poor, attractive women fake jobs in Europe or the U.S. that force them to become prostitutes in foreign lands. The U.S. is part of that system. Human trafficking is a major part of illegal immigration.
It’s not about me moving on; it’s about some folks out there catching up. I didn’t see anyone else challenging DeLay at his peak, only when he was weak.
DeLay is history but the world remains a mess. Complain at me if you will but we do need a new rep who knows it instead of another clueless Congressman whose knowledge of the world comes from travel brochures. There is much yet to do to make it a better place, domestically and internationally…. The question now is replacing DeLay with a candidate with the skills needed in a world of terrorism and global economics.
I’ve been involved in these issues for decades. That is why I will continue “moving on” and raising these issues, whether I am a candidate or not. I am glad to have the Johnny-come-lately’s showing up, all anxiously wanting to be the new Congress candidate...it shows that the fear of DeLay is gone.
P.S. For the commentators who didn’t appreciate the symbolism in my recent fence story, I say simply this: we need more fence building, not bridge burning in our government. I found that each nail I drove into each plank made the fence stronger. The difference one nail at a time can make in mending a fence is amazing. I am just one of those nails fighting to strengthen our democratic fences, locally and globally.
They clearly don’t know my real objective is more than about one guy (i.e., DeLay. It is all about International Justice. Don't forget I have been an international negotiator worldwide. I've seen a lot of injustice globally, not just in District 22.
Mr. DeLay just happened to be my local corrupt official that needed to be challenged long before now. He is but one part of our government system that needs replacement and improvement. The improvements need to be more than domestic. They need to be global.
For example, little (i.e., nothing) has been done about the international criminal rings that promise poor, attractive women fake jobs in Europe or the U.S. that force them to become prostitutes in foreign lands. The U.S. is part of that system. Human trafficking is a major part of illegal immigration.
It’s not about me moving on; it’s about some folks out there catching up. I didn’t see anyone else challenging DeLay at his peak, only when he was weak.
DeLay is history but the world remains a mess. Complain at me if you will but we do need a new rep who knows it instead of another clueless Congressman whose knowledge of the world comes from travel brochures. There is much yet to do to make it a better place, domestically and internationally…. The question now is replacing DeLay with a candidate with the skills needed in a world of terrorism and global economics.
I’ve been involved in these issues for decades. That is why I will continue “moving on” and raising these issues, whether I am a candidate or not. I am glad to have the Johnny-come-lately’s showing up, all anxiously wanting to be the new Congress candidate...it shows that the fear of DeLay is gone.
P.S. For the commentators who didn’t appreciate the symbolism in my recent fence story, I say simply this: we need more fence building, not bridge burning in our government. I found that each nail I drove into each plank made the fence stronger. The difference one nail at a time can make in mending a fence is amazing. I am just one of those nails fighting to strengthen our democratic fences, locally and globally.
Tuesday, April 11, 2006
Repairing fences -- and democracy
I spent the weekend replacing boards in the backyard fence, preparing for the hurricane season. Without more nails, and a few replacement boards, it was in serious danger of falling down. It took a lot of pounding, and my hands turned black, but now it is a solid fence again.
As I hammered, it occurred to me that under DeLay democracy has become as rickety as my backyard fence before the repair.
I thought about how Mr. DeLay stated in TIME and a Washington Post article that he deliberately set it up to keep any one of us who challenged him off the list of replacement names as the GOP candidate on the ballot. In other words, any of us who played by rules and ran against him is on the “blacklist.”
Is this “democracy”?
When an incumbent can punish those who played by the rules—and pick his replacement-- how is that a good example of democracy to show the Iraqis?
This is not about me – it is about the American democratic process. There are two other candidates who are also on that same blacklist. Is this fair?
Is democracy’s fence falling down? It is strong when incumbents can manipulate the process ? I guess the Iraqis only need look at District 22 to decide how to play the game? Let's hope not.
Think about it.
As I hammered, it occurred to me that under DeLay democracy has become as rickety as my backyard fence before the repair.
I thought about how Mr. DeLay stated in TIME and a Washington Post article that he deliberately set it up to keep any one of us who challenged him off the list of replacement names as the GOP candidate on the ballot. In other words, any of us who played by rules and ran against him is on the “blacklist.”
Is this “democracy”?
When an incumbent can punish those who played by the rules—and pick his replacement-- how is that a good example of democracy to show the Iraqis?
This is not about me – it is about the American democratic process. There are two other candidates who are also on that same blacklist. Is this fair?
Is democracy’s fence falling down? It is strong when incumbents can manipulate the process ? I guess the Iraqis only need look at District 22 to decide how to play the game? Let's hope not.
Think about it.
Thursday, April 06, 2006
My Legacy - Fear of DeLay is now GONE -
My legacy is that of being the first one who broke the fear of not running against DeLay in the GOP primary, when I first ran in 2000.
In that time I have seen 3 Democrat candidates come and go -- in 2000, 2002, 2004 -- I was there each time. Mr. Lampson is the 4th Democrat that I've seen in the same political year. He is also the last Democrat to oppose DeLay, who is now gone and won't be on the ballot in November.
Running against DeLay at his peak did keep a lot of business from coming my way because people feared DeLay, who made vindictiveness a high art form.
Those who opposed him were punished – he had one lady fired from several jobs. Fear of him kept me from getting jobs that paid six figures a year, including at least one legal job. The law partner wanted to run for judge but he feared DeLay would put a candidate up against him if they hired me. He said he really wanted to hire me but he could risk hurting his law partner. I told him, "I understand."
They fear him no more.
I was deprived of a lot of income when people feared the DeLay hammer. So, I figured that if I couldn’t work at least I could continue campaigning against our own ruthless representative, who changed the boundaries twice in the process. I kept talking about issues DeLay never did – building commuter rail and international issues like terrorism and global trafficking of women as prostitutes, etc. I don’t expect whoever picks DeLay’s replacement as a candidate will pick the guy who fought against DeLay’s corrupt politics for year and predicted 9 11. I don’t expect them to reward someone who kept democratic choice alive in the GOP by running against DeLay at his peak of power instead of jumping on he was weak or fading from the scene. Naw. My prediction is that they will go with the best politician, not the person with the best qualifications such as Homeland Security expertise—despite the fact that Houston is a prime target for both man-made and natural disasters and we must compete in a global economy. Does Congress really need another representative who is great at killing cockroaches or slapping backsides, but is clueless on global threats?
Do we need another politician? I would prefer a leader and a visionary that thinks of the public well being instead of their pocketbook and photo op scrapbook. I have helped get rid of a tyrant and a bully. My focus can now move to community service and negotiating business deals, locally and globally.
I have a lot of catching up to do…the campaigns left a hole in my bank account, but the experience was enriching and rewarding. And DeLay? He'll be pulling in a $67,000/year pension.
In that time I have seen 3 Democrat candidates come and go -- in 2000, 2002, 2004 -- I was there each time. Mr. Lampson is the 4th Democrat that I've seen in the same political year. He is also the last Democrat to oppose DeLay, who is now gone and won't be on the ballot in November.
Running against DeLay at his peak did keep a lot of business from coming my way because people feared DeLay, who made vindictiveness a high art form.
Those who opposed him were punished – he had one lady fired from several jobs. Fear of him kept me from getting jobs that paid six figures a year, including at least one legal job. The law partner wanted to run for judge but he feared DeLay would put a candidate up against him if they hired me. He said he really wanted to hire me but he could risk hurting his law partner. I told him, "I understand."
They fear him no more.
I was deprived of a lot of income when people feared the DeLay hammer. So, I figured that if I couldn’t work at least I could continue campaigning against our own ruthless representative, who changed the boundaries twice in the process. I kept talking about issues DeLay never did – building commuter rail and international issues like terrorism and global trafficking of women as prostitutes, etc. I don’t expect whoever picks DeLay’s replacement as a candidate will pick the guy who fought against DeLay’s corrupt politics for year and predicted 9 11. I don’t expect them to reward someone who kept democratic choice alive in the GOP by running against DeLay at his peak of power instead of jumping on he was weak or fading from the scene. Naw. My prediction is that they will go with the best politician, not the person with the best qualifications such as Homeland Security expertise—despite the fact that Houston is a prime target for both man-made and natural disasters and we must compete in a global economy. Does Congress really need another representative who is great at killing cockroaches or slapping backsides, but is clueless on global threats?
Do we need another politician? I would prefer a leader and a visionary that thinks of the public well being instead of their pocketbook and photo op scrapbook. I have helped get rid of a tyrant and a bully. My focus can now move to community service and negotiating business deals, locally and globally.
I have a lot of catching up to do…the campaigns left a hole in my bank account, but the experience was enriching and rewarding. And DeLay? He'll be pulling in a $67,000/year pension.
Wednesday, April 05, 2006
For those of you who are paying attention, read this article in today's Washington Post, and note the vindictiveness in this line:
“Rep. Tom DeLay had considered resigning on several occasions over the past four months. But he waited until after he had vanquished his challengers in the Republican primary to deny them the chance to become his successor, associates said.”
In doing so, DeLay deliberately deprived the VOTERS, the people of District 22, from making the call on who should replace him when he knew he was leaving. How democratic of him.
By doing what he did the way he did it, DeLay has set up political chaos – already the list of candidates for a Special Election is double that of the primary, and growing.
None of the "new" candidates had the guts to challenge Mr. DeLay and his lack of ethics directly (except for possibly Mr. Stockman’s independent challenge but I didn’t hear Stockman complaining about DeLay’s ethics –he just wanted the job). So why are they necessarily examples of people with strong leadership skills that will fight corruption? If they didn’t challenge DeLay’s ethical excesses before now, what lousy ethics would they challenge in the future?
If DeLay had left it up to the people, we would be in the closing days of a run off between Mr. Campbell and myself – with a lame duck embattled Congressman on the sidelines. It probably would have gone to Mr. Campbell who had more money, but at least the people would have had a choice – and again in November when the winner faced Mr. Lampson.
DeLay has ironically sown the seeds for the fall of the GOP in District 22, and perhaps nationally. Now watch the hand of Mr. DeLay set up yet another scene of chaos that generates bad will -- as the candidates vying for his job commence cutting each other into small pieces in the next few months.
I won’t be one of those candidates. My mission ended with DeLay’s leaving office. Yes, he denied Mr. Campbell (or me) the seat. Vindictiveness has seen to that. But it comes at a high price for the voters and Republicans.
Just watch in the coming days. His actions will end up doing far more damage than good to the GOP, etc.
I cannot honestly support any candidate or party (Republican or Democrat) that fails to confront or deal with the corruption and lack of ethics and commitment to true democracy that has been exhibited by any of our elected officials, including Mr. DeLay.
“Rep. Tom DeLay had considered resigning on several occasions over the past four months. But he waited until after he had vanquished his challengers in the Republican primary to deny them the chance to become his successor, associates said.”
In doing so, DeLay deliberately deprived the VOTERS, the people of District 22, from making the call on who should replace him when he knew he was leaving. How democratic of him.
By doing what he did the way he did it, DeLay has set up political chaos – already the list of candidates for a Special Election is double that of the primary, and growing.
None of the "new" candidates had the guts to challenge Mr. DeLay and his lack of ethics directly (except for possibly Mr. Stockman’s independent challenge but I didn’t hear Stockman complaining about DeLay’s ethics –he just wanted the job). So why are they necessarily examples of people with strong leadership skills that will fight corruption? If they didn’t challenge DeLay’s ethical excesses before now, what lousy ethics would they challenge in the future?
If DeLay had left it up to the people, we would be in the closing days of a run off between Mr. Campbell and myself – with a lame duck embattled Congressman on the sidelines. It probably would have gone to Mr. Campbell who had more money, but at least the people would have had a choice – and again in November when the winner faced Mr. Lampson.
DeLay has ironically sown the seeds for the fall of the GOP in District 22, and perhaps nationally. Now watch the hand of Mr. DeLay set up yet another scene of chaos that generates bad will -- as the candidates vying for his job commence cutting each other into small pieces in the next few months.
I won’t be one of those candidates. My mission ended with DeLay’s leaving office. Yes, he denied Mr. Campbell (or me) the seat. Vindictiveness has seen to that. But it comes at a high price for the voters and Republicans.
Just watch in the coming days. His actions will end up doing far more damage than good to the GOP, etc.
I cannot honestly support any candidate or party (Republican or Democrat) that fails to confront or deal with the corruption and lack of ethics and commitment to true democracy that has been exhibited by any of our elected officials, including Mr. DeLay.
Tuesday, April 04, 2006
Where From Here?
Thanks to "WhipDeLay" etc for your comments. Where from Here?
Good question. It appears a Special Election is coming up and I see a million candidates will be running for District 22 now that DeLay is riding off into the sunset a step ahead of the posse (OK I’m exaggerating slightly on the numbers) .
As DeLay dodges the Fed posse, another posse of candidates will be vying to replace him, each with contacts in only one portion of the district or another – or none. This district covers parts of FOUR counties. Sugar Land is about 11% and folks in Pearland and Clear Lake and Rosenberg view the world differently – and don’t necessarily like Sugar Land hogging the limelight.
So it could be a free for all. Ironically, the only people with exposure in all of the 4-county district are the three of us who just finished the primary.
However, as news of people jumping in have spread, I see this could shape up as a ZOO with a "cast of thousands" running on the GOP side -- splitting the vote -- leaving the Democrat with a plurality. I see no use putting myself through that, fans notwithstanding...
Good question. It appears a Special Election is coming up and I see a million candidates will be running for District 22 now that DeLay is riding off into the sunset a step ahead of the posse (OK I’m exaggerating slightly on the numbers) .
As DeLay dodges the Fed posse, another posse of candidates will be vying to replace him, each with contacts in only one portion of the district or another – or none. This district covers parts of FOUR counties. Sugar Land is about 11% and folks in Pearland and Clear Lake and Rosenberg view the world differently – and don’t necessarily like Sugar Land hogging the limelight.
So it could be a free for all. Ironically, the only people with exposure in all of the 4-county district are the three of us who just finished the primary.
However, as news of people jumping in have spread, I see this could shape up as a ZOO with a "cast of thousands" running on the GOP side -- splitting the vote -- leaving the Democrat with a plurality. I see no use putting myself through that, fans notwithstanding...
Monday, April 03, 2006
Mission Accomplished - DeLay withdraws as candidate
After months of pleading that he is innocent, Mr. DeLay announced tonight that he is NOT going to seek re-election after 22 years in office. My mission has been accomplished.
I was stunned. Why now?
Since his ex-aide, Tony Rudy, pled guilty to conspiracy on Friday, it must be related to that. Apparently, Mr. DeLay is not as innocent as claimed. Why else step down now?
Unfortunately, this move deprives the voters of District 22 of picking his replacement, unless a Special Election is called. Without a Special Election, the party picks a replacement, not the people. Standby for developments on this.
I was stunned. Why now?
Since his ex-aide, Tony Rudy, pled guilty to conspiracy on Friday, it must be related to that. Apparently, Mr. DeLay is not as innocent as claimed. Why else step down now?
Unfortunately, this move deprives the voters of District 22 of picking his replacement, unless a Special Election is called. Without a Special Election, the party picks a replacement, not the people. Standby for developments on this.
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