All of us "activists" now "become as insignificant as we should be”

[madfloridian]

to paraphrase Pete Stark, who was forced to humble himself and apologize while Little Boots and his neocon buddies lead our country to destruction.

Stark makes tearful apology, censure fails

Five Democrats voted to censure him...Bush/Blue Dogs, freshman. Have to look big and tough and self-righteous. Jason Altmire (PA-04), Chris Carney (PA-10), Joe Donnelly (IN-02), Heath Shuler (NC-11) and Brad Ellsworth (IN-08).

Once again the grassroots, netroots, liberals, activists who speak with emotion were sent a message by those in power.

That message is that we are "insignificant" indeed. With every apology, every backing down, my heart aches more.

As David Brooks so aptly said in a quote posted prominently at the DLC which is the policy shop for our party:

The fact is, many Democratic politicians privately detest the netroots' self-righteousness and bullying.

The fact is, many Democratic politicians privately detest the netroots' self-righteousness and bullying. They also know their party has a historic opportunity to pick up disaffected Republicans and moderates, so long as they don't blow it by drifting into cuckoo land. They also know that a Democratic president is going to face challenges from Iran and elsewhere that are going to require hard-line, hawkish responses.

In the words of Pete Stark who had courage to show his anger:

"I want to apologize to my colleagues, many of whom I have offended," Stark began. He then apologized to "the president and his family" and "the troops."

"I hope that with this apology, I return to being as insignificant as I should be," he concluded though a voice cracking with emotion.

I know now I am totally insignificant in Florida because I crossed the powers that be on my posts about the early primary. I think I am quickly becoming insignificant to the congressional leaders as well.

It is a sad feeling and a hopeless one.

[kestrel91316]

1. I'm seriously tempted to vote Socialist for the rest of my life.

Or Communist.

Pelosi makes me sick. She MADE Stark apologize. That is unforgivable.

[shadowknows69]

3. I hear that

I'm really hating our party right now. Yeah, yeah, better than the alternative. Is it really anymore?

[TechBear_Seattle]

18. At least you are still willing to vote

I am seeing very little real difference between the two parties. I figure, if I'm going to be throwing my vote away anyway if I vote for a third party.... :shrug:

[progpen]

23. I'm with you.

I couldn't possibly agree more. An absolutely disgusting and sick display of capitulation by Pelosi.

[leftchick]

58. me too!

I will never vote for these fucking fascist enablers again. :grr:

[physaf]

68. It's disheartening. Limbaug takes his phony slander, uses it to raise $2Megabucks for his "charity"

... thanks to the ineptness of the Democrats.

Why can't our guys learn to play these situations to gain advantage, instead of being outmaneuvered at every turn?

I'm very discouraged about the Democrat's leadership.

The Socialists at least act like they know where they stand.

[marmar]

2. To say that the Democratic leadership doesn't "get it" is to say that water is wet....

It's indeed exasperating.

[bbgrunt]

8. oh, they get it. It is part of the "plan"-- and whatever that plan is,

it doesn't bode well for anyone in the bottom 99% of the country.

[kenfrequed]

71. ask Rahm

He seems to be given an inordinate amount of respect for someone that loses during a losing season.

Honestly his gold sheen should have rubbed off after Dean's 50 state strategy turned into such a success.

[JNelson6563]

41. More widsom from DU's MI delegation

Well said Marmar. :toast: :hi:

[rhett o rick]

66. With all due respect, the Democratic leadership do get it. It's us that don't get it.

We keep trying to get the system but to no avail. Like Charlie Brown kicking the football. Would you say that Lucy don't get it? Nope, it's poor hapless Charles of Brown. Like us, we just don't get it. I begged my Democratic Senators to not confirm Alberto Gonzales, but no, they didn't listen to me. Well f*** them.

[bbgrunt]

4. becoming insignificant seems to be the last line of defense against tyrants

[DKRC]

64. That made me think of a song I heard years ago

Couldn't remember the artist, but some of the lyrics stuck with me.
Here they are.

Bragg Billy - A Pict Song Lyrics

Rome never looks where she treads
Always her heavy hooves fall
On our stomachs our hearts and our heads
And Rome never hears when we bawl
Her sentries pass on -- that is all
And we gather behind them in hordes
And plot to reconquer the Wall
With only our tongues for our swords
For we are the little folk -- we!
Too little to love or to hate
Leave us alone and you'll see
How we can bring down the state
Mistletoe killing an oak
Rats gnawing cables in two
Moths making holes in a cloak
How they must love what they do!
Yes -- and we little folk too
We are as busy as they
Working our works out of view
Watch, and you'll see it someday
No indeed! We are not strong
But we know of Peoples that are
Yes and we'll guide them along
To smash and destroy you in war
We shall be slaves just the same?
Yes, we have always been slaves
But you -- you will die of the shame
And then we shall dance on your graves!
We are the worm in the wood!
We are the rot at the root!
We are the taint in the blood!
We are the thorn in the foot!

http://www.lyrics007.com/Bragg%20Billy%20Lyrics/A%20Pict%20Song%20Lyrics.html

[nightrider767]

5. It's Still one sided in Washington

Starks a sentimental, emotional old fart.

It just shows the incredible desperation and baseness of the Grand Ole Piece of Shit Party, when the only claim they have for relevance is to attack and old man.

Hey, if an old man gets upset and slaps me upside my head, am I going to beat his ass? No, because I am a secure powerful man and that would only raise doubt about my character and strength.

[The Icon Painter]

6. Wondering

This sounds more than a little sarcastic to me. It is as though he was being forced to apologize and used exaggeration to convey to those who could hear that he was not sorry at all. I would like to believe this is true since I am thoroughly disgusted with all this groveling before the thin-skinned minority in Congress. Let them be offended. Their existence offends me.:puke:

[madfloridian]

11. I agree.

It sounded bitter, and I appreciate that. I am bitter myself. I am bitter over what my state has done...over the lawsuits. I am bitter that no one is speaking out for us.

[EFerrari]

16. It certainly is ambiguous. n/t

[nightrider767]

19. I think he's conveying the same sense of alarm ,,,

and disillusionment many DU's are feeling know.

Congress "Come On, Man!!!"

[madfloridian]

29. Yes, you phrased that quite well.

Very good way to say it.

[phantom power]

7. There's apologizing (which is already wrong)...

and then there's licking the GOP's boots. Stark didn't just apologize, he just fucking humiliated himself for no good reason.

"return to being as insignificant as I should be." Jesus, did you get that bit of dogshit stuck over there under their heel?

[robinlynne]

21. Remember, he is one of the good guys. he stood up for us, which is a rarity.

[progpen]

24. He is still a hero as far as I'm concerned.

[robinlynne]

26. I just called his office to say that we do not find him insignificant, and to thank him again for

standing up to Bush in our name.

[bdamomma]

39. it is important that we give him support, he spoke his mind

which many of us wish we could do on the floor of our House of the Representatives. Wow what a image that would be, to have us come to the floor and speak our minds. hmmmm.................

[robinlynne]

44. I like that thought.

[phantom power]

30. But he just flushed all that down the toilet.

Standing up only works if you then refuse to back down. If you get up and speak brave words, but then turn around and start sniveling and apologizing, and saying "oh, I'm sorry, I just want to go back to being insignificant, like I deserve to be..."

What he just did is worse than if he had just kept his mouth shut to begin with. It's just one more anecdote that reinforces the mythology that Dems are the party of ineffectual spineless cowards. At the first sign of resistance, they run apologizing and crying.

[madfloridian]

34. No you are wrong. He did what he had to do. I doubt there was a choice.

With the wimpy leadership we have

[sce56]

9. Maybe it is time we went Green! n/t

[EFerrari]

10. Well, we shouldn't be and aren't insignificant.

Maybe Stark needed more support than he had. Not to mention, support from his party leadership.

[YankmeCrankme]

12. I think that is what he meant

I think his party put a lot of pressure on him because of his comment and he couldn't believe he had no support from the leadership and that meant he was truly insignificant to his party.

[EFerrari]

15. Maybe he needs to be reminded who the party is.

In a nice way, I mean. :)

[madfloridian]

17. He IS truly insignificant to the party and so are we....IF we don't speak properly.

.

[tnlefty]

35. Properly, like Buck Fush instead of

F*^k Bush? The fact that dems voted to censure him pisses me off to no end. The fact that he felt pressured to apologize REALLY pisses me off! What a sad, sorry state of affairs.

Thanks for posting!

[Whisp]

32. that's how I understand it.

that 'insignificant' word was a final jab at the machine. He wasn't dissing himself, he was telling us that truth has become insignificant. We know that, don't we?

Yes It Is Happening Here.

[bdamomma]

56. your comment sounds pretty accurate to me.

insignificant to his party, yes, and no support from them.

[madfloridian]

13. A Calfornia group cancelled a speech and appearance by Stark. Shame on them.

Who is this Linda Ulrich anyway? Is she more of a patriot than I am?
Who does she think she is?

"Stark’s comments also resulted in a rescheduling of his plans to be the featured speaker for the California State Society at a Capitol Hill Club luncheon on Nov. 6.

“Concerning an upcoming lunch where Congressman Stark was to speak, we mutually decided that it would be best to reschedule for a later date,” said Linda Ulrich, chairwoman of the State Society’s executive board. “The purpose of the Golden State Roundtable luncheons is to discuss issues of importance to California. ... In this case, chances are great that the focus would be on an entirely different subject.”

http://thehill.com/leading-the-news/stark-makes-tearful-apology-censure-fails-2007-10-23.html

[EFerrari]

20. They're the Corporati. Check out their sponsors:

With the generous support of many Corporate Sponsors, the California State Society has been able
to host a wide variety of quality events including the Inaugural Fashion Show, The Welcome Back
to Congress Party, "Ahhhscar" Night, The Cherry Blossom Reception, The Annual Summer Picnic, and the Annual Holiday Party. For more information on how to become a Corporate Sponsor, contact Julie Hooks, at [phone] or e-mail at [e-mail].


2006 Corporate Sponsors
Platinum Sponsors

Allergan, Inc.
AT&T Services, Inc.
Fleishman-Hillard
Occidental Petroleum
Oracle
Sallie Mae
SAP America
Southern California Edison

Gold Sponsors

ACS Inc.
American Land Title Association
Apollo Group
Bank of America
The Boeing Company
California Credit Union League
The California State University
Clark & Weinstock
Countrywide Financial
Dunn-Edwards Corporation
EDFUND/California Student Aid Commission
EDS
Fannie Mae
The Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising
Fluor
General Atomics
Hewlett-Packard
Intel Corporation
International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers
Lockheed Martin Corporation
Loyola Marymount University
Mars
Morongo Band of Mission Indians
National Association of Home Builders
Nelnet
Northrop Grumman Corporation
Novartis Vaccines & Diagnostics
Parsons
PMI Mortgage Insurance Co.
PG&E Corporation
Raytheon
SAIC
University of California
University of Southern California
The Wine Institute

Silver Sponsors

Chevron
Innovative Federal Stretegies, LLC
Media Plus Design
Microsoft
Patton Boggs
United Airlines

Bronze Sponsors

3M
Ameriprise Financial
Baxter Healthcare
BWXT
California Association of Realtors
California Grown
Calpine
Cassidy & Associates
College Loan Corporation
Dewey Square Group
E. Del Smith & Company
Farmer's Insurance
MARC Associates
Pfizer
RAND
Sunkist Growers
Van Scoyoc Associates
Washington Mutual

http://www.californiastatesociety.org/sponsors.html

[zbdent]

14. Nuts ... rep from my old home area (Altmire) voted for censure ...

thankfully, no relation to an old classmate ...

[Usrename]

22. Congress is an embarrassment.

Especially Stark's Democratic collegues!

:puke:

[Tyler Durden]

25. BE SURE TO SEND HIM A NOTE! K&R

I did, and I don't even live in California:

"I wanted to thank you personally for your bravery in addressing what so many of us feel is the failure of the Republican Administration to pay attention to anything other than their war.

I regret that I you are not my representative, and you may show this to David Camp (R) and let him know that his subservience to the Bush Administration will not be tolerated in the next election.

Please don't let the naysayers in the House keep you from speaking truth to power.

With warmest regards for your future in government,

Sincerely, "

[madfloridian]

27. I already did the other day.

.

[flashl]

28. Good idea. n/t

[Individualist]

31. It's way past time to stop rewarding enablers with votes.

Vote for progressives, not those who take their marching orders from DLC!

[Dr.Phool]

37. They're even stealing the title "Progressive".

In Florida, some "progressive factions" are referring to Bill Nelson as a progressive. They're trying to get along with the DLC, the Blue Dogs, and the Thurmanistas.

They're running an organized smear campaign against John Russell, who was the party nominee for his congressional district, because he spoke out against Karen Thurman. He was even banned from attending their "Unity Dinner" fundraiser a couple of weeks ago.

Fuck 'em all! I was a delegate at the last 3 conventions. I'm not attending this one, or their "progressive" party fundraiser.

Maybe we should go back to calling ourselves liberals again.

[Generator]

33. Well as a very famous tombstoned Du'er put it

The anti-war people are a CANCER on the Democratic party. That's exacty how the DLC, Hillary and the rest think of us. Not the warmongers. Just shut up and vote. WAR is good for the economy doncha know? It's damn good for a few pockets. Even Will Pitt said so. So many enablers it bogles the mind.

[Amonester]

62. And now, after dumping those (I could say, "sh*ting on" but I'll remain "polite")

And now, after dumping those who worked so hard for them to win their slim "majority" in Congress, look at who they hope will suddenly vote for them:


"a historic opportunity to pick up disaffected Republicans and moderates"


Ya. Good luck with THAT bunch...


Adios, amigos.

[RiverStone]

36. I was both baffled and saddened by his remarks

No apology needed.

Then to demean himself by saying he was returning to insignificant...

Make ya wonder if there were pressures placed on him outside the public eye. Or threats?

[madfloridian]

42. He was told to apologize or be censured. Heck of a choice.

It was the House leadership.

[RiverStone]

47. Can you site a source?

Curious Mad if your read a statement specifically suggesting Stark was "told" to apologize, or if the implication was there per Nancy's condemnation of his original statement.

Ya know, if I felt strongly enough about something like this - I may not have apologized; then let the chips fall where they may. I know, easy to say when my job is not on the line...

Thanks :hi:

[madfloridian]

49. It was at FDL, he was told that by Hoyer.

I tried to get there to find the link, but my computer freezes about half the time there. Don't know why. Heading out for a few hours, but it is also in GD forum here.

Sorry for no link but search the GD and GDP forums for Stark, Hoyer.

Will get the link from FDL for you later.

[madfloridian]

53. Here are two sources...Bloomberg and DWT which is from FDL as well

http://downwithtyranny.blogspot.com/2007/10/republican-hypocrites-fail-in-their.html

http://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pid=20601087&sid=aR7EKUN.uU74&refer=home

Looks like Steny Hoyer took great satisfaction in calling Stark over the week-end.

[madfloridian]

38. From another thread....the ones who voted "present" equally fearful Democrats.

I forgot to include these in my OP. From Riverstone's post.

"Present" Voters

Dan Boren (OK), Lincoln Davis (TN), Baron Hill (IN), Tim Mahoney (FL), Charlie Melancon (LA), Dennis Moore (KS)

Hesitant to censure but afraid to just say no.

http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=view_all&address=389x2117472

[mmonk]

40. Authoritarian government makes us all significant

until there is pushback. My hat is off to you Rep. Stark.

[Blue_Tires]

43. the past few weeks have been very tough to stomach

starting with that whole moveon incident...

[Hydra]

45. Have we reached the tipping point yet?

Or do I have to wait for the police to conduct sweeps picking us up?

How much more will be tolerated before we do something about it?

[MadHound]

46. And Democrats wonder why liberals are leaving their party

It is this sort of shit, not just the failure to speak truth to power, but to utterly repudiate truth and those who speak it, that is turning more and more of us here on the left away from the Democratic party. Obviously Republicans don't speak for us, and now it is becoming apparent that Democrats don't speak for us. What's left then, either the Greens or simply staying home.

Yet it will be the left that the Dems will blame when they lose in '08, saying that we should have voted Democratic, even though the party repudiates us.

Yep, Code Pink, MoveOn, and now Stark. Is it getting any clearer now? We're not wanted, so why the fuck should we stick around?

[bullwinkle428]

48. Message to Nancy : My contributions to the Dems are about to become VERY INSIGNIFICANT!!!

:mad: :mad: :mad:

[The Wizard]

50. Withhold all contributions to the DCCC

Inform them that you will not give another dime until they apologize for pretending to be Democrats. In essence, cut off their oxygen. If your Congressional representatives are Democrats, urge them to shun the blue dogs who genuflect in the presence of Republicans.
Every time we're about to come together, Republicans in Democratic clothing split us apart.
First we withhold our support; next we work to replace them.
Because of these regular surrenders to fascism, the Democrats will not hold the majority after November 08. Nancy Pelosi will be remembered for being a failure as Speaker.
Just wondering if Stark's family was threatened by the junta.

[Taverner]

51. We are insignificant: Democracy is Dead

Like the shift from the Roman Republic to Empire, the coup took place and no one noticed until it was too late.

America is no more - it's just an empire looking to ever expand wealth in the hands of the moneyed elite. We mean nothing to them.

Why do you think they've been eroding our education system? Stupid people ask no questions.

Why do you think they want us poorer and poorer? Desperate people work for peanuts.

Why do you think they want us hooked on Britney Spears and other Infotainment? Distracted people don't have opinions.

Both the Dems and GOP are in on it, and have been for quite some time.

Stick a fork in America's ass, she's done.

[NekoChris]

52. I just sent this to Mr. Stark

I just recently read an excerpt from your apology about returning to insignificance and I want to bolster you by telling you to never ever allow this to be.

I am not from your state, I am rather politically unattached as I do not follow the machinations or know the whole story on everything ,but I will say this.

Your voice is not insignificant. Perhaps what could be said is they are a powerful weapon without any fine tuning. If you fire a cannon it goes forth and barrels over everything with no regard. If you fire a rifle, it hits the target with pin point accuracy and strikes exactly where desired.

Do not cull your words nor mark them as unimportant, or allow yourself to be marked so. Rather sharpen them, focus their intent, and strike with them at the heart of the matter with elegence and grace.

Spread this if you so feel to your associates. Bucking the system and those who run it is exactly what is needed, but your words must be carefully chosen. If you must pause to calibrate them, do so. If you must take a breath to make sure the next thing you say is correct, do so.

Focus that anger at how things are and become the voice that the people so badly desire that echoes through the ears of those who need to hear it. Temper your words with wit and confidence.

I respect anyone who has the gall to stand up and say something is wrong, we need more of that. Do not back down, but do not lose focus either.

Fall back, gather your calm, and comes forward again with renewed strength. It's cool, we all have moments, but don't let them push you into the ranks of the unheard.
-------
I didn't really proof read it or anything, I just read the last comment he made on insignificance and felt that this man cannot be allowed to humble himself that way. Send him reassuring words, something, if he broke like that during his comment then clearly he needs support.

[JDPriestly]

54. Any DUer who lives in a district of these faux-Democrats needs

to put pen to paper. He or she also needs to put mouth where money is, either oppose the guy in the next congressional election or put foot to pavement to work for someone who is opposing the guy in the next election. These people should not be serving in Congress. They should be voted out of office.

[JDPriestly]

55. The low-down on these faux-Democrats

Profile:

Party: Democrat
Residence: McCandless
Marital Status: Married (Kelly)
Prev. Occupation: Healthcare Executive
Prev. Political Exp.: no prior elected office
Education: BS Florida State University, 1990; MA George Washington University, 1998
Birthdate: 03/07/1968
Birthplace: Kittanning, PA
Religion: Catholic

(OK. So there you go. Previous occupation: healthcare executive.
On his website, he offers suggestions for e-mail messages. The top one is "I disagree with Pete Stark." Wow, now that is the way to start a dialogue with constituents.)
http://www.congress.org/congressorg/mail/?id=152535&type=CO&state=PA

Under soapbox commentaries:


#290
In House
#219 In Party
POWER RANKINGS by KNOWLEGIS
Soapbox Commentary on Rep. Altmire
No current commentaries

(Why don't you post yours?)

http://www.congress.org/congressorg/bio/?id=152535

He represents Pennsylvania’s Fourth Congressional District, which includes all or parts of Allegheny, Beaver, Butler, Lawrence, Mercer, and Westmoreland Counties. He serves as Chairman of the Investigations and Oversight Subcommittee of the House Small Business Committee; as well as serving on the Education and Labor Committee and the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee.
http://altmire.house.gov/bio.shtml

Chris Carney (PA-10)

represents: PA-10 Counties: Bradford/Tioga; Lackawanna; Luzerne; Lycoming; Montour; Northumberland; Pike; Snyder; Sullivan; Susquehanna; Union; Wayne; and Wyoming.

Congressman Carney and his staff try to accomodate all meeting requests from the tenth district of Pennslyvania. We ask that all meeting requests be issued in writing. The best way to request a meeting is to send an email to [e-mail].
http://carney.house.gov/
Please be sure to include the following in your requests:

* All attendees’ names, titles, and affiliations.
* Contact information for you and your group, including phone, e-mail, and address.
* A detailed description of the subject matter you wish to discuss.
* Whether you would like to meet in one of the district offices (please specify, Clarks Summit, Shamokin, or Williamsport) or in the Washington, D.C. office.

416 Cannon HOB
Washington, DC 20515
Ph: [phone]
Fx: [phone]

(He is from rural Iowa, now representing Pennsylvania and studied environmenal studies and diplomatic history in college. He worked for the Bush administration before running for Congress.)

After 9/11, Congressman Carney served at the Pentagon as an intelligence analyst and senior advisor on intelligence and counterterrorism issues. He coordinated counterterrorism activities in the Middle East and later worked on the integration of national-level intelligence products in the effort to destroy international terrorist networks.

A Lieutenant Commander in the United States Navy Reserve, Congressman Carney served multiple tours overseas and was activated for operations Enduring Freedom, Noble Eagle, and Southern Watch.
http://carney.house.gov/about.shtml

Joe Donnelly (IN-02)
Office Locations

Washington, DC
U.S. House of Representatives
Longworth House Office Building 1218
Washington, DC 20515
Phone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
Hours: M-F 9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. (E.S.T.)

South Bend
207 West Colfax Avenue
South Bend, IN 46601
Phone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
Hours: M-F 9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. (E.S.T.)

Logansport
300 East Broadway Suite #102
Logansport, IN 46947
Tuesday 1:30-5:00
Wednesday 10:00-3:00
Thursday 10:00-3:00 (E.S.T.)
Phone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]

La Porte
809 State Street, Room 502B
La Porte, IN 46350
Phone: [phone] ext. 414
Hours: Wednesday 8:00 a.m. -4:00 p.m. (C.S.T.)

Michigan City
100 East Michigan Boulevard
Michigan City, IN 46360
Phone: [phone] ext.308
Hours: 2nd Thursday 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. (C.S.T.)

Washington, D.C. - Today, the House of Representatives will consider H.R. 2102, The Free Flow of Information Act. This bill would prevent journalists from being legally compelled, except in certain specified circumstances, to reveal their confidential sources in legal proceedings.

Today, the U.S. House of Representatives approved the 25 by ’25 Resolution (H. CON. RES. 25) that expresses the sense of Congress that by the year 2025, at least 25 percent of the total energy consumed in the United States should come from homegrown renewable sources. Currently, renewable energy sources supply about 6 percent of the United States’ total energy needs.

(So Donnelly supports freedom for journalists and those who leak to journalists but not for a congressman who calls a spade a spade.)

http://donnelly.house.gov/

Heath Shuler (NC-11)
He represents the area around Ashville, Hendersonville, Waynesville, N.C.

Prior to launching his Congressional bid Congressman Shuler had been a successful entrepreneur and small business owner. He began a real estate brokerage firm and several other successful real estate companies. Congressman Shuler is also widely known for his success on the football field. As a student-athlete at Swain County High School, he set every passing record in school history while leading the Maroon Devils to three North Carolina state championships and being named North Carolina High School Player of the year.

He certainly does not sponsor any measures that could be considered controversially progressive or liberal.
Sponsored legislation includes:

7. H.AMDT.126 to H.R.1429 Amendment adds language stating that faith-based and community-based organizations will continue to be eligible to participate in the Head Start program on the same basis as other organizations.

6. H.R.3676 : To amend title 49, United States Code, to provide for a child safe viewing area within which covered air carriers shall not display violent in-flight programming.
Sponsor: Rep Shuler, Heath (introduced 9/26/2007) Cosponsors (16)
Committees: House Transportation and Infrastructure
Latest Major Action: 9/26/2007 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure.

8. H.AMDT.165 to H.R.1873 Amendment extends small business procurement contracting goals to include overseas contracts.
Sponsor: Rep Shuler, Heath (introduced 5/9/2007) Cosponsors (None)
Latest Major Action: 5/10/2007 House amendment agreed to. Status: On agreeing to the Shuler amendment (A003) Agreed to by recorded vote: 398 - 29 (Roll no. 320).

http://thomas.loc.gov/cgi-bin/bdquery/R?d110:FLD003:@1(Rep+Shuler+Heath):

http://shuler.house.gov/

Brad Ellsworth (IN-08)
represents Vincennes, Terre Haute, Evansville, Greencastle, Washington, Ind. area

Formerly what I understand to be a sheriff's deputy, "he currently sits on the Armed Services, Agriculture, and Small Business Committees."

I have been a law enforcement officer for most of my career and a hunter all my life. My experiences have taught me the value of responsible firearm ownership and usage. I value our Constitutional right to keep and bear arms, and recognize the positive impact hunters and sportsmen have on wildlife preservation and environmental conservation. As your representative in Washington, I will strongly protect your Second Amendment rights and oppose any legislative effort to impose burdensome regulations on law-abiding gun-owners.

(Apparently he is not quite so concerned about the right to free speech of a fellow congressman.)

The challenging conditions in Iraq require members from both parties and the President to work together to bring this war to a successful resolution. We all want our fighting men and women to return home safely as soon as possible, so our number one priority must be to provide them with the equipment, weapons and training they need.

Time and time again, military leaders have told me that unless Iraqis stand up and take responsibility for their own destiny, no military strategy in Iraq will be successful. The President has spelled out benchmarks the Iraqis must meet, and we in the Congress must make it clear we expect Iraq to live up to its promises.

There's no question, we face big challenges in Iraq. But the bottom line is we are stronger when we face them together.

http://www.ellsworth.house.gov/

I assume the above quotes are intended for public use and that there is not limitation on a citizen's right to quote Congressmen. I quoted as much as possible from the Congressmen and women's own websites.

So if you live in one of these areas, contact your representative in Congress and let him or her know what you think.

[porphyrian]

57. I can be less significant. Just give me the chance. - n/t

[JDPriestly]

59. The low-down on these faux-Democrats

Profile:

Party: Democrat
Residence: McCandless
Marital Status: Married (Kelly)
Prev. Occupation: Healthcare Executive
Prev. Political Exp.: no prior elected office
Education: BS Florida State University, 1990; MA George Washington University, 1998
Birthdate: 03/07/1968
Birthplace: Kittanning, PA
Religion: Catholic

(OK. So there you go. Previous occupation: healthcare executive.
On his website, he offers suggestions for e-mail messages. The top one is "I disagree with Pete Stark." Wow, now that is the way to start a dialogue with constituents.)
http://www.congress.org/congressorg/mail/?id=152535&type=CO&state=PA

Under soapbox commentaries:


#290
In House
#219 In Party
POWER RANKINGS by KNOWLEGIS
Soapbox Commentary on Rep. Altmire
No current commentaries

(Why don't you post yours?)

http://www.congress.org/congressorg/bio/?id=152535

He represents Pennsylvania’s Fourth Congressional District, which includes all or parts of Allegheny, Beaver, Butler, Lawrence, Mercer, and Westmoreland Counties. He serves as Chairman of the Investigations and Oversight Subcommittee of the House Small Business Committee; as well as serving on the Education and Labor Committee and the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee.
http://altmire.house.gov/bio.shtml

Chris Carney (PA-10)

represents: PA-10 Counties: Bradford/Tioga; Lackawanna; Luzerne; Lycoming; Montour; Northumberland; Pike; Snyder; Sullivan; Susquehanna; Union; Wayne; and Wyoming.

Congressman Carney and his staff try to accomodate all meeting requests from the tenth district of Pennslyvania. We ask that all meeting requests be issued in writing. The best way to request a meeting is to send an email to [e-mail].
http://carney.house.gov/
Please be sure to include the following in your requests:

* All attendees’ names, titles, and affiliations.
* Contact information for you and your group, including phone, e-mail, and address.
* A detailed description of the subject matter you wish to discuss.
* Whether you would like to meet in one of the district offices (please specify, Clarks Summit, Shamokin, or Williamsport) or in the Washington, D.C. office.

416 Cannon HOB
Washington, DC 20515
Ph: [phone]
Fx: [phone]

(He is from rural Iowa, now representing Pennsylvania and studied environmenal studies and diplomatic history in college. He worked for the Bush administration before running for Congress.)

After 9/11, Congressman Carney served at the Pentagon as an intelligence analyst and senior advisor on intelligence and counterterrorism issues. He coordinated counterterrorism activities in the Middle East and later worked on the integration of national-level intelligence products in the effort to destroy international terrorist networks.

A Lieutenant Commander in the United States Navy Reserve, Congressman Carney served multiple tours overseas and was activated for operations Enduring Freedom, Noble Eagle, and Southern Watch.
http://carney.house.gov/about.shtml

Joe Donnelly (IN-02)
Office Locations

Washington, DC
U.S. House of Representatives
Longworth House Office Building 1218
Washington, DC 20515
Phone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
Hours: M-F 9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. (E.S.T.)

South Bend
207 West Colfax Avenue
South Bend, IN 46601
Phone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
Hours: M-F 9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. (E.S.T.)

Logansport
300 East Broadway Suite #102
Logansport, IN 46947
Tuesday 1:30-5:00
Wednesday 10:00-3:00
Thursday 10:00-3:00 (E.S.T.)
Phone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]

La Porte
809 State Street, Room 502B
La Porte, IN 46350
Phone: [phone] ext. 414
Hours: Wednesday 8:00 a.m. -4:00 p.m. (C.S.T.)

Michigan City
100 East Michigan Boulevard
Michigan City, IN 46360
Phone: [phone] ext.308
Hours: 2nd Thursday 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. (C.S.T.)

Washington, D.C. - Today, the House of Representatives will consider H.R. 2102, The Free Flow of Information Act. This bill would prevent journalists from being legally compelled, except in certain specified circumstances, to reveal their confidential sources in legal proceedings.

Today, the U.S. House of Representatives approved the 25 by ’25 Resolution (H. CON. RES. 25) that expresses the sense of Congress that by the year 2025, at least 25 percent of the total energy consumed in the United States should come from homegrown renewable sources. Currently, renewable energy sources supply about 6 percent of the United States’ total energy needs.

(So Donnelly supports freedom for journalists and those who leak to journalists but not for a congressman who calls a spade a spade.)

http://donnelly.house.gov/

Heath Shuler (NC-11)
He represents the area around Ashville, Hendersonville, Waynesville, N.C.

Prior to launching his Congressional bid Congressman Shuler had been a successful entrepreneur and small business owner. He began a real estate brokerage firm and several other successful real estate companies. Congressman Shuler is also widely known for his success on the football field. As a student-athlete at Swain County High School, he set every passing record in school history while leading the Maroon Devils to three North Carolina state championships and being named North Carolina High School Player of the year.

He certainly does not sponsor any measures that could be considered controversially progressive or liberal.
Sponsored legislation includes:

7. H.AMDT.126 to H.R.1429 Amendment adds language stating that faith-based and community-based organizations will continue to be eligible to participate in the Head Start program on the same basis as other organizations.

6. H.R.3676 : To amend title 49, United States Code, to provide for a child safe viewing area within which covered air carriers shall not display violent in-flight programming.
Sponsor: Rep Shuler, Heath (introduced 9/26/2007) Cosponsors (16)
Committees: House Transportation and Infrastructure
Latest Major Action: 9/26/2007 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure.

8. H.AMDT.165 to H.R.1873 Amendment extends small business procurement contracting goals to include overseas contracts.
Sponsor: Rep Shuler, Heath (introduced 5/9/2007) Cosponsors (None)
Latest Major Action: 5/10/2007 House amendment agreed to. Status: On agreeing to the Shuler amendment (A003) Agreed to by recorded vote: 398 - 29 (Roll no. 320).

http://thomas.loc.gov/cgi-bin/bdquery/R?d110:FLD003:@1(Rep+Shuler+Heath):

http://shuler.house.gov/

Brad Ellsworth (IN-08)
represents Vincennes, Terre Haute, Evansville, Greencastle, Washington, Ind. area

Formerly what I understand to be a sheriff's deputy, "he currently sits on the Armed Services, Agriculture, and Small Business Committees."

I have been a law enforcement officer for most of my career and a hunter all my life. My experiences have taught me the value of responsible firearm ownership and usage. I value our Constitutional right to keep and bear arms, and recognize the positive impact hunters and sportsmen have on wildlife preservation and environmental conservation. As your representative in Washington, I will strongly protect your Second Amendment rights and oppose any legislative effort to impose burdensome regulations on law-abiding gun-owners.

(Apparently he is not quite so concerned about the right to free speech of a fellow congressman.)

The challenging conditions in Iraq require members from both parties and the President to work together to bring this war to a successful resolution. We all want our fighting men and women to return home safely as soon as possible, so our number one priority must be to provide them with the equipment, weapons and training they need.

Time and time again, military leaders have told me that unless Iraqis stand up and take responsibility for their own destiny, no military strategy in Iraq will be successful. The President has spelled out benchmarks the Iraqis must meet, and we in the Congress must make it clear we expect Iraq to live up to its promises.

There's no question, we face big challenges in Iraq. But the bottom line is we are stronger when we face them together.

http://www.ellsworth.house.gov/

I assume the above quotes are intended for public use and that there is not limitation on a citizen's right to quote Congressmen. I quoted as much as possible from the Congressmen and women's own websites.

So if you live in one of these areas, contact your representative in Congress and let him or her know what you think.

[peacekitten]

60. I actually cried when I heard him

apologize. I have been lurking for so long, but now I must "come out". I just can't believe this! Didn't he stand up at first and say he wasn't going to apologize? What happened? He'd be censured? So what?? What ever happened to standing up for truth and justice? Why on earth do the repugs have so much "power"? Pelosi, wasn't she supposed to be our knightess in shining armour? WTF is going on?

[Capn Sunshine]

61. Thanks for fighting

I hope you realize how your message is being forwarded far and wide. Cause it is. There's even an appreciation thread for you on other websites.

Keep telling the truth. :hi:

[madfloridian]

63. Wow...

No, I did not realize that. There's a lot of good thought in that thread. Deep stuff about where we are going.

Thank you for sharing. I have a tear or two now.

[rhett o rick]

65. I have come to realize that us activists are insignificant. We write and protest

all for nothing. Our system don't hear us. We can't replace an incumbent in our party so why bother writing them. They know that if they are an incumbent they are locked in. The Democratic Party will back them even if they were the devil himself, like Lieberman. My emails to my Congress-critters go unheeded. It's bigger than all of us.

[havocmom]

67. Look at it my way: WE DECIDE the issue of significance, and the degrees ...

Something I posted this morning on the subject of “become as insignificant as I should be”:

Should he be 'insignificant' for speaking truth to power? Is that for those without spines who voted to TRY and silence his opinion?

Or is it for US to decide the significance?

“become as insignificant as I should be” ... I read that as an invitation to We The People to be the deciders on what, and who, is VERY significant!

Raise bloody hell that Stark spoke truth to power and it is a message YOU approve of.

They only get to decide how significant he should be if we let them. We outnumber them. Let them know that.

Call in to talk radio and TV

LTTE

Post where ever you can on the internet

Talk it up at water coolers across the nation

Drown out the feeble attempts of some in the House to be the arbiters of SIGNIFICANCE. Let them know they are NOTHING WITHOUT US and if they can't get that message, MAKE THEM as insignificant as your representatives.

I read his statement as a battle cry, not a surrender. But that's just me.

How 'bout YOU? Just how insignificant do you think Stark's message was? YOU are the deciders, not sniveling cowards in Congress!

[barbtries]

69. so i live in cuckoo-land

while the "civilized" world stands by and watches as the administration destroys a nation - no, make that two nations, at least - and hastens the destruction of the planet we all live on. aargh

[LWolf]

70. Remember 2000? The selection, the new administration?

A slow start, which picked up speed and then took off on 9/11, when the Democrats, and the country, "united." Every new atrocity hit me hard. I kept thinking, "I knew it would be bad, but I never envisioned this." By 2003 I was thinking, "It can't get any worse." And then it would, and I would be shell-shocked, and come out thinking, "Well NOW it can't get any worse." But of course it did. By 2006 I'd already reached the grim conclusion that the march to destroy any and everything worthy in the Constitution, in government, in the U.S. herself, would never stop until people in power WANTED it to.

This is another "I can't believe this" moment. But I do, and I'm no longer even surprised.

Until American citizens are willing to do their part of the job, this slide into corruption, corporatism, fascism will not end.

We can no longer assume that a politician with a "D" next to their name is going to stand up with us when called to.