Rep. Robert Wexler’s new book is called "Fire-Breathing Liberal: How I Learned to Survive (and Thrive) in the Contact Sport of Congress."
Even before it was released, it rose to the top of the Amazon political best-seller list on the basis of pre-orders by Wexler’s large base of netroots fans who admire his willingness to fight for his – and our – political beliefs.
But Wexler doesn’t just preach to the choir. This week, Wexler appeared both on FOX News and on the Colbert Report, where he was famously embarrassed with questions about cocaine and prostitutes.
And Wexler doesn’t mince words – he called for impeaching George Bush even on FOX.
Obviously the timing is right for Wexler’s book. Two years ago, Democrats took over both houses of Congress by winning 30 seats in the House and 5 seats in the Senate. This year, Democrats could pick up another 15-30 seats in the House, 5-10 more in the Senate, and elect Wexler’s close friend Barack Obama as President.
So the real question isn’t why Robert Wexler wrote a book promoting liberal Democratic politics, but why is he the only Congressman who has?
Perhaps it’s because Congressional Democrats don’t understand why they won in 2006 and why they are heading for victory again in 2008.
Democrats won because George Bush, Dick Cheney, and the Republican Party steered America so fast and far to the right that we all went sailing over the cliff, yet they still have their pedal to the metal and the steering wheel jammed to the right.
Congressional Democrats seem to think Americans just want the country to turn right more slowly. But Americans want a real turn to the left, not a slower turn to the right.
Americans want economic growth. Bush’s pro-oil policies have tripled the price of oil, and this is killing our economy – not just at the gas pump, but also in the grocery store. Bush’s pro-rich tax cuts have created a massive gap between rich and poor, and emptied the federal treasury so we can’t fix our roads or pay our teachers. Our economy is being strangled by powerful corporations, and we need to break that stranglehold to unleash entrepreneurship and grow once again.
Americans want affordable, accessible health care for everyone. We know we’re paying for it through premiums and taxes that are higher than any country in the world. But we know that much of our health care money is lost in insurance and hospital bureaucracies that spend our money looking for ways to deny us the care we paid for, not to provide that care. We need a single-payer system like other industrialized nations have.
Americans want to solve our energy and environmental crises, which share a common cause: our dependence on fossil fuels. We want solar energy, wind power, and electric cars. And we want them now, so we need a massive, focused effort like the Manhattan Project to bring it about.
Americans want to restore our moral leadership in the world. We want to bring peace to Afghanistan, which we thought we solved in 2001. We want to bring our troops home from Iraq, where Bush sent them on the basis of lies. We want to negotiate with Iran, not start an even wider war with nuclear bombs. And we want to end torture and close our own Gulag Archipelago of secret prisons around the world.
Finally, Americans want our Constitution back. We don’t want our President to be a Dictator who can start wars for oil, give massive no-bid contracts to his friends, wiretap all our emails and calls, lock people away without trial, corrupt every agency in the executive branch, and ignore Congress or lie to its face. And if we end up with that kind of President, we want to see him impeached – and then indicted and jailed.
On all of these issues, Americans know Republicans want to go in the wrong direction. So they are voting for Democrats in the hope that we will bring about the kinds of changes we have fought for since FDR.
But we’re not seeing those kinds of changes. The Democratic Congress led by Nancy Pelosi and Harry Reid has been a disaster. None of our nation’s problems have been fixed, and some have been made even worse.
At the top of the list is Iraq. We’ve already wasted over 4,000 American lives and over $562 billion in our tax dollars, and 70% of Americans want to bring our troops safely home. But Congress just voted to give Bush another $163 billion so he can keep our troops there for another full year. Why did 80 Democrats in the House and every Democrat in the Senate vote with George Bush?
Ditto on Bush’s illegal wiretapping. Newspaper reports and Congressional hearings show that Bush started wiretapping law-abiding Americans in defiance of the Constitution and FISA long before 9/11. Only a few Members of Congress have the vaguest clue how extensive the wiretapping is, and they cannot tell another soul what little they know. Yet 105 Democrats in the House and 30 Democrats in the Senate voted to let Bush continue wiretapping us without a warrant – and gave immunity to Bush and the telco’s who flagrantly defied the law. Why?
Robert Wexler is right in the middle of these fights. He serves on both the Judiciary and Foreign Affairs Committees, so he deals with domestic and foreign disasters. When TV lights are on, he gets to grill White House officials like Alberto Gonzales, Scott McClellan, and Condi Rice. And when TV lights go off, he gets to privately urge Democratic leaders to stand and fight, not surrender and retreat.
So let’s welcome Robert Wexler to Firedoglake and find out why he – almost alone among Democrats – is willing to fight the most corrupt and dangerous President America has ever had. And let’s find out whether Wexler’s friend Barack Obama is willing to fight for real progressive change, or whether he will cave under pressure from Big Corporations as he did on wiretapping this week.
Related posts:
- Wexler Set to Extinguish “Fire,” Resign House Seat
- FDL Book Salon Welcomes Robert D. Auerbach, Deception and Abuse at the Fed: Henry B. Gonzalez Battles Alan Greenspan’s Bank
- Wexler Takes the Pledge – Gets Picketed by Dick Armey
- FDL Book Salon Welcomes Robert Wright: The Evolution of God
- FDL Book Salon Welcomes Robert H. Frank, The Economic Naturalist’s Field Guide: Common Sense Principles for Troubled Times
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Welcome!
Representative Wexler, Welcome to the Lake.
Bob, Thank you for Hosting this Book Salon.
Welcome Congressman Wexler – and everyone from FireDogLake!
Happy to be here and thanks so much for hosting me. Also hello to my good friend Bob Fertik.
Rep.Wexler, I’m crazy about your spunk and willingness to speak truth. What’s scaring your pals whom we elected with such expectation?
Let me ask the first question: so how did it go on the Colbert Report this time?
Dearie’s question is excellent :)
I won’t lie – I was a bit nervous this time around – but overall I thought the interview went great. The funny thing about the show is that Stephen is playing a crazy right wing lunatic – but he really isn’t that far from the real right wingers dominating radio and a certain cable television network.
Dearie, thanks for the question. I have a fundamental disagreement with many of my colleagues on our governing philosophy. I think we should play to our base – just as the GOP did for 12 years. Instead too often we are cautious to a fault and too often play to a middle of the road moderation that doesn’t deliver the change that we need.
Interesting. I thought you really bested Colbert……and I figured it was because he was on your side.
Congressman,
To build on other questions, how do we elect more Robert Wexlers and Barney Franks and fewer Rahm Emmanuels and Steny Hoyers?
A huge and warm welcome Senator Wexler. You have given me such hope and courage and reason to rally with your work in the Senate, your words and actions. I want to thank you for all you’ve done and I want you to know you have a wide and enthusiastic following, not only in the “lefty blogs” but from other segments of the population as well. Everyone I talk to KNOWS who you are. Any chance you’ll consider a cabinet position or some placement in an Obama administration?
Thank you for being here.
Congressman,
From where you are, what do you see really happening with FISA in July?
First of all, let me say that I have great respect for both Rahm and Steny and I think they did a great job in pointing out the terrible GOP policies and thus delivering us a majority. But there is no question we often disagree on policy and tactics. Electing proud liberals at the local level from school boards all the way up to Senate will put us on the path to building a powerful liberal coalition. By the way there will only be one Barney Frank – to use a cliche – they broke the mold.
Colbert isn’t as vicious as the attack rats of wingnuttyland.
Rep. Kucinitch(sp?) is after impeachment too. Are your approaches different or the same?
Siri,
I love my job period and I am not looking to do anything more than working as hard as I can to turn Florida blue in 08 and deliver the White House for Barack Obama.
I respect that response, but would certainly love to see you in a top position in DOJ. There’s so much repair and restoration to be done there. You, Senator’s Kucinich, Whitehouse and a couple of others are the only ones in the Senate showing any kind of real appetite for that gigantic job. I’ll continue to hold my hopes.
AZ Matt,
Rep. Kucinich has been leading this charge for a long time. I am trying to play a complementary role to his efforts. As many of you are aware I have been trying to establish a national movement to hold impeachment hearings for President Bush and Vice President Cheney and my website http://www.wexlerwantshearings.com has garnered over a quarter million supporters. I will work with Dennis until we get accountably.
So is there a chance that our activism will help turn the tide against FISA or are they determined to ram this through no matter how much it hurts them back home? Why are they so scared?
Welcome Congressman Wexler, and Mr. Fertick,
a lot of us have been looking forward to this conversation.
BevW,
As you may know, I voted against the so-called FISA compromise as we can’t compromise away our constitutional rights. I think Chris Dodd’s Senate speech on FISA recently was bold and right on. I hope he continues the fight with Senator Feingold.
Congressman,
What did you think of the Yoo/Addington hearings? And do you think Mukasey will fork over any of items on the subpoena Conyers wants him to turnover?
Thanks for keeping up the good fight. Is there a rationale for why Rep. Pelosi took impeachment off the table? It kind of gave the bad guys the go-ahead to keep trashing the Constitution of the United States of America.
I noticed that since my Rep. John Yarmuth changed his position about FISA and voted for it this time that he’s brought back a lot of pork to our district. Was there a lot of pressure on you guys to vote for FISA?
Wecome, Congressman;
Do you actaully think there will be accountability?
If so, what might this accountability look like?
A lot or a little?
pmorlan,
We should not give up this fight. The Republicans in the Senate manage to stop every good piece of legislation that has come forward – such as the recent oil company legislation. We need some brave Democrats to do the same and hold strong.
To be honest with you Congressman, to many of us out here, it appears that Rahm and Steny are far more beholden to the corporations that they are to the voters. As witness Steny’s so-called “compromise” on FISA.
And they act like we’re too stupid to notice when they are asking us to bend over and take it.
For myself, I think the taking of the House back in ‘06 had far more to do with Dr Dean’s fifty state strategy and the recognition that the Republicans had no clue on Irak than it had to do with Rahm’s “strategies.”
Saw you on Colbert’s show, and the rules committee meeting weeks ago.
It’s creepy to have to say that I’m delighted to see elected representatives fulfilling their oath of office to defend the Constitution, but here it is, God bless you, sir.
8-)
Maybe you could add your voice to mine next time your run into my 2 Republican senators Brownback and Roberts to remind them of their sworn duty.
.
Do you think the ad that ran in the Washigton Post about Hoyer, FISA and civil liberties caught anyone’s attention on Capitol Hill?
Don’t worry Congressman Wexler I certainly have no intention of giving up the fight. While my Senators McConnell and Bunning will no doubt vote for FISA I will still be contacting Obama and others on this issue. I will also be working to defeat McConnell.
Cong. Wexler,
When I get discouraged at some of the incomprehensible actions and votes by some of your democratic colleagues, you and a few others remind me there is still hope. Please continue your fight and know there are many citizens supporting your stance.
My question is why did the dems do an about face on retroactive immunity when there is NO PUBLIC SUPPORT for it?
Dearie and DWBartoo,
Speaker Pelosi “took impeachment off the table” because she believed that it would distract us from our other goals on energy, health care, Iraq, ect. My only dispute with this theory is that President Bush has blocked us on all of these goals. I think if we get serious about accountability and put real political pressure on Bush and Cheney it will actually help us force them to compromise on these other critical issues.
Regarding whether I think there will be genuine accountability – I still have genuine hope. However I have been dismayed by the reluctance of even good and otherwise liberal Democrats to join my efforts.
Why do you think there is such reluctance?
hwmnbn,
Regarding retroactive immunity and the decision by House Democrats. I was discouraged and I think my party is too often willing to compromise on issues of national security and defense because we are paranoid about being portrayed as weak on terrorism. We need to stick to our guns (no pun intended) on these issues.
It’s enormously cheering to have people like you stand up for us.
Thank you! I look forward to reading your book.
To quote the right wing, “Why do they hate America?” I am so frustrated with the weak-kneed Dems that I could just spit. Do they not know that some of us are working hard to throw them out? Tell them for us, if you will! Thanks.
Welcome Congressman Wexler, huge fan of yours in Toronto, Canada !
We were stumped by Obama’s support of FISA, is it realistic to think that a Dem majority in Congress will stand up to Bush and remove telecom immunity?
We’re greatly displeased with Steny, Rahm and Reid for bring this Bill up when the other one was more to our liking.
pmorlan,
Keep up the good work. Early political prediction: McConnell goes down in Kentucky this year – he will be the big Senate surprise.
Congressman Wexler, lately Senator Obama has been observed moving more to the right in his positions supposedly because the conventional wisdom is that moving to the center will enable him to win. I know that you are a supporter of Obama so I hope if you get a chance you can get a copy of Glenn Greenwald column to him so that maybe he will see the folly of listening to those in his campaign who urge him to do this.
The baseless, and failed, “Move to the Center” cliche
http://www.salon.com/opinion/g…..print.html
Yes, WHY? Those sent to the Senate in the 06 elections were elected with specific mandates, and they all knew/know it. Their refusal to effectively deal with those mandates means we need to select others to replace them. They act like they are either unaware of or really don’t care about representing us, once they land in WashDC. How do they explain, justify, answer to that??? I’d really like an insider’s take on this. REPRESENTATIVES are sent to WashDC to represent us, and they are patently not doing so. Is it that they don’t care, aren’t interested in anything but their own personal agendas, forgot, or WHAT? We are all so disheartened after accomplishing the 06 change.
Interesting:
One would think, in a sane America, that the trashing of the Constitution and accountability would cross most ideological spectrums and Party lines. This is what I find so amazing about today’s government. One shouldn’t have to be “liberal” to want that…though being liberal is a wonderful thing. :)
Thank you for keeping up the good work, Congressman Wexler. Love what you do.
pmorlan,
As many of you know, I am an enthusiastic supporter of Barack Obama. I truly believe he will be a transformational figure for our nation and the world. None of us will agree with all of his positions but I can predict that we will be gratified and thrilled with the positions he takes as President almost every time. His election will allow us to accomplish the change we need – in health care, foreign policy, ect.
On accountability, I fear Bush will destroy all incriminating documents before he leaves the White House. He already destroyed 6 million emails! What can Congress do to prevent this?
Does it not occur to those who are “scared” that they are portraying themselves as weak in the face of party opposition, not weak on the subject of National Security. Why aren’t they getting that? We will not vote for anyone who can’t stand up to the current assault on the Constitution. That’s paramount, and secondary to the National Security excuse.
Preview is my friend. I meant: One would think, in a sane America, that the trashing of the Constitution and accountability would concern our elected officials across most ideological spectrums and Party lines.
Congressman Wexler, what will Congress do to stop War with Iran ?
Our own Marcy has an excellent post up, which I would ask you to read and forward to your fellow Congresspersons – Link
Audrey,
Isn’t it amazing. Ten years ago the mainstream media was obsessed with the Clinton impeachment that pale when compared to the crimes of this cabal. During the 90’s the economy was prospering and we were in such peaceful times that the GOP used impeachment to polarize the entire country. Now with President Bush and Vice President Cheney committing genuine High Crimes the mainstream media couldn’t be bothered. So much for a liberal bias.
welcome cong wexler…. just boated onto the lake…. a hearty amen to what you said!!!
I think he will go down too. I only wish the Democratic leadership in Kentucky had backed Greg Fischer instead of Lunsford. While Lunsford will certainly be better than McConnell he is no Robert Wexler. Greg Fischer was a much better candidate. He got 34% of the vote despite the fact that the Democratic leadership and the states main paper endorsed Lunsford. Another missed opportunity for Kentucky.
Congressman Wexler, welcome to the Lake.
Thanks to you and Bob Fertik for joining us here today (and to Bev Wright for her work with our Book Salons).
Congressman, thanks for standing up against FISA amnesty. I’m grateful for you and the other Congressman who oppose corporate sovereignty.
Bob,
This is a genuine concern that you raise. I am open to suggestions – legislative or otherwise to prevent such actions. There are certainly laws preventing such actions and this further makes the case why we should be acting now on impeachment – rather than waiting before he escapes back to Crawford.
Dugg
Senator, I think that the ‘reluctance’ is directly related to complicity, and I would appreciate your most candid response to these concerns, otherwise I am left with the conviction that far too many of your colleages have more their own, selfish, and self-serving interests at heart than they do anything else, including the rise of dangerous, even fascistic tendancies at the very top of this government (including a far too cozy relationship with corporations) not to mention the use of “Cruel and Inhuman” methods to “extraxct information”.
The American Empire has become the major destructive force on the planet, and not by accident.
The mainstream media are owned by corporations….and have been. The American people didn’t want the Clinton impeachment, but pulling it off was shear genius on the part of the Republican goons. The insulated what they had in the planning once they figured out how to elect their strawman. But Pelosi played right into their hands when she got a chance to speak. Shameful.
Petrocelli,
Regarding Iran – I think Senator Obama has the best policy on this issue. We need to directly and aggressively engage diplomatically. We must use all economic, political, and diplomatic tools. Just look what has happened in North Korea when we engaged in a reasonable manner rather than invading unilaterally.
Congressman Wexler,
Unfortunately, I have to leave, but wanted to express my admiration. I’m an old timer who remembers many fine liberal Democrats. It’s been a long dry spell for us, and we have a lot of Republican eye wash to overcome concerning government being the enemy of the people (although they’ve made it that way), but I believe we have a chance now. Keep your chin up. I’m looking forward to reading your book.
My apologies, Senator Wexler, if I sound angry or demanding. I’m frustrated and I am passionate about my country. I am asking you questions here that my own Senator (Salazar) will not respond to.
Thank you again, for all that you are doing, for being one of the “lone voices” for justice in the United States Senate in these times!
Sir: What are some steps we can take? Knowing we were lied into the Iraq debacle, we are hearing more noise and threats about Iran. Many think these people will definitely go forward against Iran before the end of this term. Practically and realistically, what are the ways to stop any such reckless action that will be for a new President?
RRRRAAAAAWWWWW!!!!!1111
Welcome Rep.Wex!
Crosstimbers,
Thanks for your kind words. In my book I am trying to re-build the term “liberal” because it is time Democrats stood strong without any shame or reluctance to pursue our goals. I call myself “Liberal” in the title of my book for just this reason. Lets turn the tables on our opposition and send the term “conservative” into the political wilderness!
True that. Aside from working to elect more and better Democrats, we also push back against the corporate right wing media and their outright fibs and misrepresentations. It sometimes seems to me that a lot information our Democratic elected officials get is from that source, which really makes it harder to get the message to them. We’re constantly being dismissed as rabid fringe far left lunatics when we really are cross spectrum here.
Welcome, Congressman Wexler. I’m having trouble reconciling your statement that Dems should play to their base with your praise for Rahm and Steny’s efforts during the 2006 elections.
Could you give a more concrete example of how they helped deliver a majority?
Thx.
I just wanted to shout out to the Congressman and tell him how much I appreciate him! Your efforts are really appreciated! Thanks for everything and please don’t let up on this gang!
Amen. Although I would also settle for making the term mean what it is supposed to mean. There is certainly nothing remotely conservative about the Cheney/Bush/Rumsfeld/Rove/Norquist/et al cabal. Nothing!
I would like just The Facts sir. I am not concerned with labels.
I’ve have been glad to hear your voice on the issuse as of late!
I have never had a problem with the word liberal. Too long the Rethugs have defined the word with a sneer and contempt.
Congressman Wexler, glad to see you here, welcome.
This morning Ariana Huffington and Christina vanden Heuval were on This Week with George, and they said they think Barack Obama is damaging his brand by his recent flip-flops on FISA, on Nafta and several other recent changes of heart he seems to have had in order to indicate his move to the middle in defiance of the left. What’s your take on this?
Dearie, you are correct. Which party is for fiscal discipline – a traditionally “conservative” policy. Not the GOP . . .
imo dems who were considered liberal were browbeaten by wingers in congress and on the airwaves…… hopefully they have learned to take the liberal label back with the help of the progressives on the internet.
As many of you know, I am an enthusiastic supporter of Barack Obama. I truly believe he will be a transformational figure for our nation and the world. None of us will agree with all of his positions but I can predict that we will be gratified and thrilled with the positions he takes as President almost every time. His election will allow us to accomplish the change we need – in health care, foreign policy, ect.
Congressman Wexler, while your high opinion of him is reassuring for me I still hope that you will pass along the Greenwald piece to him. We all know that during presidential campaigns that the conventional wisdom pushed by consultants is that you have to move to the center in order to win. I’d sure like to know that Senator Obama at least see’s the flip side of that argument and Greenwald’s piece today does a very good job of doing that.
Thanks.
Ann,
I answered a similar question before and I will try again. In my opinion, never in my adult lifetime have we had a Democratic nominee who is most likely able to deliver on the issues that we care about than Senator Obama. You will agree with him the overwhelming majority of the time. Obama’s brand is that he will work with a real coalition in Congress and deliver on desperately needed changes.
pmorlan,
I will certainly pass along the Greenwald article.
Hi Bob, and welcome Congressman Wexler –
As much as I’d like to see the Bush Cheney den of thieves Impeached and removed from office, that seems unlikely at this point.
But there is another reason why Impeachment Hearings have value — Article II Section 2 of the Constitution:
By the very act of holding Impeachment hearings, there is a Strict Constructionist case to be made that the power of the Presidential Pardon is nullified; GW Bush would lose the power to pardon himself or any one else that is investigated for Offenses Against the United States by an Impeachment Subcommittee.
Of course, the Right Wing Jurists use Strict Constructionism as a fig leaf, to hide their radical agenda — but turning the argument against them, to prevent Bush from issuing blanket pardons for all of the crimes he’s perpetrated would be a first step towards restoring the rule of law.
Congressman Wexler, have you or anyone else made this argument to your colleagues?
Congressman,
I think part of the problem is not so much that we don’t understand there will be disagreements, but we see him caving on core, constitutional issues and that is extremely troubling to many of us.
Thank you. By the way I look forward to reading your book. Can you give us a brief description of what we might expect from it?
I so agree about the term liberal. Political “gamesmanship” has replaced ethics-based statesmanship in our government, and the corporate-owned MSM runs with the commentary on the gaming.
And there is a trap I fear the party and its leadership is falling into … so exhausted and dispirited by Republican longevity. Playing by their rules and being cautious and second-guessing. Reactive not proactive. We got the constitution on our side. We have the Geneva convention on our side. We got the rest of the world on our side. We need leadership like yours, Feingold’s, Dodd’s now, Kucinich’s, JR Edwards … that needs to be stand-up bold speakers. I hope BO joins in sooooooon.
Also, do you have a large staff or do you go without a lot of sleep?
rosalind,
Why you may not agree politically with Reps. Hoyer and Emanuel – they were vital in our efforts to take back the house. Rahm put together an unprecedented DCCC operation that put the financial resources in the right places and allowed us to win back the majority.
Now the question is – what do we do with our majority. Here is where you and I see eye to eye. We need to breath more fire (to quote my book) and provide stark choices to the American people. If people are given a true liberal choice on health care for example, we will win every time.
Thanks, ckis, for bringing that to the fore. Too important to overlook. Send Nancy a note, too!
Congressman Wexler, thanks for coming by and responding in real time with us.
You are a cosponsor of H. Con. Res 362, which among other things calls for an active quasi-blockade of the nation of Iran:
Could you please tell us what you’ve seen to convince you, and your cosponsors, that our country should be trusting this President with the kind of discretion and judgment needed to carry out such actions?
This is great. Congressman, I too believe that we need to take back the term “Liberal” and I look forward to reading your book. I know there are some tough questions here to answer, but our level of earnestness over these issues is pretty strong. Your answers are much appreciated. Thank you.
The President shall … have power to Grant Reprieves and Pardons for Offenses against the United States, except in Cases of Impeachment.
Boy – that can be read *several* different ways…
BTW, if being a “liberal” means being a fan of The Bill of Rights, being anti-torture, and being in favor of Separation of Powers – I’d guess that about 85% of Americans are “liberal”.
I love your sign on name – you are with me on the vanguard of bringing liberal back to the fore.
I have about 15 members of my staff who work in both Florida and Washington DC. You may have seen them if you watched The Hill on Sundance.
Congressman Wexler, welcome and thank you for your outstanding work on issues we care about so much!
Can you explain how your constituents welcome your forthright fire-breathing while so many of your colleagues fear their own constituents’ wrath, and cower before the threats of the right? I simply don’t understand how one Congressman can be such an unapologetic liberal while others remain so afraid of both the label and the policies that go with it.
I write this inquiry as someone who feels he has lost his own representative in Congress, as she’s been promoted to Speaker and must now accommodate much more moderate views. What can others do to help their Congresspersons understand that it is okay to be a proud liberal?
Thanks again for all you do, sir.
Please comment on Iran. Why should we trust these people to show any restraint (ie., diplomacy) and what is the pushback or prevention?
congressman wexler – first i want to thank you for the many good things you’ve been doing. but i do have some serious questions about what has been going on with regard to fisa and iran, and you’re here at a critical time on both of these issues.
first, so many of the fisa vote in the House look to be charades – where the outcome is predetermined and the votes are staged. twice this past year, it appears that some members of the progressive caucus have stood up even against their own leadership to try to block bad legislation.
on october 17 the the house leadership pulled the RESTORE Act (version 1) when, among other things, some progressives and rush holt withheld their support until improvements were made via a manager’s amendment. were you part of this group?
on feb 13, 2008 a group of mostly progressives against a 21 day extension of the PAA. blocking this extension was key to derailing the rockefeller/bond SSCI bill. why did you vote for the extension?
hope you will give us some insight into the behind the scenes kabuki on these votes. thank you.
thank you for your reply, i appreciate it very much.
Ditto that sentiment, Audrey! How wonderful it is to have a Congress Person here at the Lake, actually talking to us. We surely could do well with more of that. Thank you again and again, Senator.
:)
Isn’t that the truth! How is it that we’re having so much trouble getting that message across?
As a liberal member of the House what advice would you give to the rest of us liberals who want to do something to support a liberal agenda in the House other than electing more liberals (we are already trying to do that)? How can we get the most bang for our buck in moving your less liberal colleagues to move your way?
You are a cosponsor of H. Con. Res 362, which among other things calls for an active quasi-blockade of the nation of Iran:
Not good. Aren’t blockades considered to be acts of war, Congressman?
Congressman. It is my recollection that you only won 8 of the races that were targeted by Rahm in the 2006 election. The rest were a result of the 50 state strategy. Perhaps you should check that stat.
Also it would be very helpful to refute the talking point that Obama has the most liberal voting record. He is not nearly the most liberal Senator and the right and the media should not be allowed to get away with that lie.
And do the rest of the Congresspeople sit with you and Kucinich in the lunchroom? Do you ever hang with Feingold? Are they CLOSE to going along… or repelled by the idea of it? What are the real chances of impeachment before January 2009? I just get overwhelmed watching CSpan and hearing the flag waving we must continue the war to SUPPORT the troops propaganda. Hard to keep hearing that go on for you I bet. What is your secret for spirit?
You meant earlier the real Colbert is liberal but his character is close to the real man on the street wingnuts….. at first I thought you meant Stephen was conservative.
The resolution you cite is a non-binding resolution which is only a statement of Congress without any force of law.
I am not willing to give President Bush congressional approval for the use of force in Iran. This resolution could not be clearer on this point and it is one of the main reasons I cosponsored this resolution.
The goal of the resolution is to place additional economic, political and diplomatic pressure on Iran instead of giving this President any authority to use force. Given my distrust of the President I am also a sponsor of another resolution (H. R. 3119) which if passed into law would prohibit the use of funds for military operations in Iran unless authorized by Congress.
No doubt Howard Dean’s 50 State strategy deserves tremendous credit and I believe that it will perform even better for Senator Obama in November 2008.
Isn’t that the 2nd non-binding resolution that Congress has passed? Didn’t you also pass the non-binding resolution to call the Revolutionary Guard terrorists? It would seem that Bush would have no trouble at all using both of these “non-binding” resolutions to bomb Iran. Why hand him something that he can use against the Congress when it isn’t necessary?
congressman wexler, i hope you will answer prof. foland’s question at 79. why are you co-sponsoring H.Con.Res. 362?
i’m no lawyer, but it sure reads to me as though it calls for a naval blockade of iran – wouldn’t that be an act of war.
BRAVO, Sir. I have friends from college who are Iranian Nationals and this will be of great cheer to them.
Incidently, those friends of mine, one here and the other in Shiraz are equally nervous about Bush Administration (as we ALL are) and they are also saddened by the turn in national policy of this last eight years. One keeps asking me if I thought America would ever “come back”. She’s actually somewhat heartbroken, again, as we all are.
Thanks for your kind words and regarding Colbert – his portrayal of a conservative blowhard is brutal and hilarious. He has the best and quickest wit of all all contemporary comics.
I am also a sponsor of another resolution (H. R. 3119) which if passed into law would prohibit the use of funds for military operations in Iran unless authorized by Congress.
Congressman, have you read Sy Hersh’s latest article?
http://www.newyorker.com/repor…..rentPage=1
Evidently, clandestine operations are being conducted in Iran, right now, not only by the DOD, the funds for which your bill apparently seeks to deny, but also by the CIA, which would seem to be outside the scope of your proposed legislation.
This resolution certainly does not give carte blanche authority to the President to conduct unilateral acts against Iran. The resolution in fact “Demands” that the “President initiate an international effort.” This language thereby insists that the Mr. Bush engage in an international diplomatic effort to prevent Iran from developing nuclear weapons.
As you probably know, I strongly oppose unilateral actions that would further isolate America. Instead I support direct American engagement with Iran alongside our European allies.
at the risk of coming off hopelessly cynical, we have a president who believes – and has stated as such – that he has the power to ignore any law at any time under the guise of keeping this country “safe”.
congress can enact the law, but how will they enforce the law?
In other words, you are being pre-emptive with Mr. Bush?
What about the situation in Afghanistan. Looks like Bush is leaving just as Aghan. falls.
This is not the first time the Administration has wrongly used war funds. One of Rep. Kucinich’s articles of impeachment specifically targets this crime – ie. the Bush Administration’s use of funding for Afghanistan to fund the Iraq War. This is a grave and serious abuse.
And left Afghanistan in a mess ….
And Congress is doing what about it?
Thank you for your candid answers. Also thank you for your defense of our republic. We need more principled leaders like you. Your time here is much appreciated. More courage in congress – we will have your backs if that ever happens.
Afghanistan is one the true casualties of Iraq war – we took our eyes off the true threat – where Al Queda resides – where the Taliban resides – and went into a nation that posed no threat to us.
I’m not worried about YOU Congressman, I’m worried about this administration. They have proved in the past that they will get Congress to sign onto things that Congress thinks is inocuous and then the Bush team twists it to make it seem like Congress went along with them (starting the Iraq war was one of them). Us firebreathing liberals outside of Congress see this so clearly and we are very frustrated that Congress keeps handing them things that they can then use to defend whatever actions they take no matter what the intent of Congress. With each non-binding resolution the Bush administration is trying to bring us closer to war with Iran.
Not nearly enough in my view.
Congressman Wexler, is there any chance of new congressional leadership for Democrats in 2008? I know its a tough job, but I don’t see how we could have done much worse in the last two years…
One word comes to mind – impeachment.
but isn’t that already happening? have you read sy hersh’s latest on our actions in iran?
i fail to see how h.con.res. 362 is anything other than another bit of aggressive, provocative posturing – in a very long list of such actions by congress. if you seriously believe it be helpful and not dangerously irresponsible, would you please explain in detail why? thank you.
How can we inspire a sense of outrage in our Congress AND IN OUR CITIZENRY????
If we barrage the Senate with phone calls about FISA is there hope they will change their minds? Is this about corporate influence? Fear of senators that they will look soft on patriotism and security?
When this seems to be the known case, what would it take to impeach, censure? All of this is being ignored with a blind eye. Can you explain and/or give us some guidance in order to get some action? Where is Obama on accountability?
Congressman, after all of the good things that you’ve done and said, I hate to seem as if I’m picking on you. However, I’d appreciate an answer to my question @90, above, and selise’s same question @96.
Isn’t a blockade of a nation with which a country or countries are not officially at war itself an act of war?
Thanks for your kind words. It is amazing what happens when you endorse accountability. My local paper attacked me in an editorial for supporting impeachment and my opponent in my race this year has ridiculed my position. In my view I have no choice – it is our constitutional duty to hold this Administration accountable.
I understand what you’re saying about agreeing with Obama on most things, and I was right there with him, supporting him and voting for him in the primary. I was with him right up until the recent dance he’s been doing on FISA. I do not consider the retroactive immunity for telecoms issue to be just a liberal issue. I consider it to be a Constitutional issue which has joined the left with the true conservatives like Bob Barr, Bruce Fein, Mickey Edwards and others. Obama started out on the same side, but lately he’s been moving away and reiterating a song and dance I definitely find insulting to my intelligence. It’s not that I just listen to Glen Greenwald, it’s also Russ Feingold, Chris Dodd, John Dean, and Jonathon Turley, et al. I thought since Obama is a Constitutional law lecturer, he could be trusted to take a principled stand on this issue and realize that although the issue is primarily a fourth amendment issue, it also embodies what has been going on with strenghtening the Presidency at the expense of the Congress and the courts.
Let me make myself perfectly clear: I am sixty-three and disabled, don’t have much power and have a debilitating disease, but I have been a lifelong Democrat. The day that Senator Obama votes for the recent FISA changes is the day that I am changing my party affiliation to none. That’s the only principled stand I can take, and I hope others take the same action. I don’t care what Obama does with other issues, even the other ones I care about like healthcare, but on this one issue, Obama cannot win my vote by tap dancing, period.
Senator Wexler, lest you think I am not sensitive to your reality, in terms of having the very real need of being congenial with your colleages, rest assured , I am not. However, you have far more an ‘inside’ view than I, and I am sore perplexed as to how you may be so optimistic regarding ‘accountability’ when you offer no insight as to quite why your fellow Democrats are so reluctant to join with you.
Many of us here have been fighting the Good Fight for years, I myself began in 1963, with the Civil Right struggle, which, as you will recall, morphed into the War in Vietnam. Watergate was a critical jucture, which Ford’s pardon, as we now see, allowed the perspective of Cheney to escape consequence, or accoutability, and we are all paying for that ‘healing’ moment to this day.
Just so you know, I think most highly of you BECAUSE you have stood with us on many of the issues which matter. I think we really should to be able to count on some real and genuine help from your Democratic colleages, or, we shall just have to replace them with some others … perhaps genuine ‘liberals’ or even ‘progressives’.
Thank you, Senator, for spending time with us, and facing the ‘wrath’ of the internet Left.
Congressman Wexler, if some of us sound exasperated, we are. I haven’t bought my pitchfork and torch yet, but I’ve thought about it — long and hard. But, again, I respect your spunk and clear thought. Thank you SO much for spending this time with us!
and what exactly has iran done to earn such hostility from us?
Don’t hold your breath.
I second Ann’s outrage and promise that if this happens. Obama will lose my support and so will anyone who aligns themselves with him for any reason.
A cave in on FISA is unacceptable. Period.
Iran has oil we want.
Late to the party–but
Welcome, Bob Fertik and Bob Wexler!
I’ll read the comments, but I’ll be looking for tips as to whether the spinelessness of Congress is due to a faulty “game plan” by the leadership of this Congress, the complicity by leaders such as Speaker Pelosi in silently approving Bushco abuses, or fecklessness on the part of the Bush Dogs… or what?
Aloha,
Bob in HI
That is, Sir, our position on this issue as well. It’s why we send you guys in there in the first place.
Respectfully. You and Kucinich are the only ones actively moving for impeachment. Fiengold and Dodd are great too!! But We The People are demanding accountability as loudly as we know how. Yet, there are so many hearings, and nothing comes of them.
Will the info garnered in these hearings ever come to action?
I have followed that incident and cheered for you from afar. I think you would find that many more people are with you than against.
well said.
The overall thrust of the resolution is one you would favor I believe – and the reason I signed onto the resolution was to signal my strong support for strong diplomatic and economic pressure to be placed on Iran. Regarding the blockade issue – I hear your concern and I examining how to possibly alter this language to relieve your concerns and others that have raised this specific issue. The last thing I want – or you want – is a military confrontation with Iran at this moment.
What is the biggest reason your fellow Congresspeople … Dems…won’t support impeachment and taken it off the table?
Congressman,
What actions can we take to show Congress that we will support courageous Congressional actions that defend the Constitution?
I hear your frustration and you should know that I strongly agree with you on FISA. I am passionate in my opposition to the so-called compromise. That said, any vote that you hold back from Senator Obama is a vote for John McCain and we cannot risk that dire future.
I’m with Dearie on this and I’m also with Ann in AZ @117. If the Democratic Party won’t even stand up on a Constitutional issue like the 4th amendment then why should I remain in the Party? The FISA vote is not just a “policy difference” I have with Obama and the Democratic leadership. I am outraged that they are willing to jettison my rights just so that they can keep the Republicans from calling them weak on terror.
I hope you will let all your colleagues know that what you are hearing from us today is being said all over the internet.
All indications are that the Democrats will increase their numbers in the House and the Senate in 2008. Regardless of our opinion of the leadership, those currently running the Democratic caucuses in both Houses will garner the laurels for any successes this fall.
Increases in their numbers will accrue to the benefit of the leadership, notwithstanding our outrage over their continued funding of the war, agreement with unconstitutional surveillance, and inaction on impeachment.
From their own perspective, National Democratic leaders are doing exactly the right thing. This is important to understand, I think.
Ann, you are such a true patriot. I am honored to be here, a party to, to have read that comment.
i.e.
YOU rock!
Many of us will not play that game sir. I’m not that’s for sure. If Democrats think they can hold our votes hostage to McSame they are sadly mistaken.
But, Congressman, what’s so great about Obama if he can’t stand up for the Constitution firmly and proudly? My neo-con brother keeps telling me, “You guys don’t even know who Obama is!” And when Obama folded on FISA, I had to say that I had my doubts. What am I to believe about him. I DON’T know him — he’s new around here in America. Really, he is.
Good question. You should continue your activism in the blogosphere but you should also work beyond this arena and write your local editorial boards – you should call your Congressman and Senator. Members of Congress notice – and care about – what calls they receive in their office and especially what appears in their local papers. You should also actively volunteer and support candidates that you feel truly represent an activist liberalism that you support. Also, educate those around you in the community that may not be as politically educated as you.
I’ve been on your mailing list for some time. You should please tell us when the media attacks you on this. We should/can have your back with LTE’s etc.
Thanks
I also associate myself with these remarks that were made by a fellow names, Wexler. Thank you Congressman Wexler.
“I am strongly opposed to H.R. 6304. There is simply no way to get around three simple facts about this bill. One, it creates a path for surveillance requests to avoid court review, and it is naïve to assume that if court review is optional, that courts would ever be a meaningful part of the process. Two, with minimal protections for over-broad searches outside the US, we are virtually guaranteed that Americans citizens in the US – with no connection to terrorism whatsoever – will be included in the surveillance. And three, the judicial review of lawsuits telephone and Internet companies is written to create no possibility of a legitimate review and ensure that the immunity sought by the President is a predetermined outcome.
“I greatly respect the earnest efforts of Members to find common ground on this most critical issue, but I respectfully believe that Congress is better off not acting if the only way to find common ground is by digging the grave of our Constitution.
“The March 14th House bill preserved court review without bogging down surveillance requests or somehow hampering our nation’s intelligence operations.
“We need to remember that under FISA, surveillance requests go to a specially designed court (FISC) with over 30 years of experience. The FISC should be allowed to keep full and appropriate review of the particular circumstances in each case as it has since 1978. I do not understand how a court could make any meaningful determination for a whole surveillance programs and the minimization procedures without considering who, what or where will be tapped – as H.R. 6304 would allow.
“It is perfectly possible for a court to examine surveillance requests in a timely manner, and there have always been allowances made for urgent surveillance. There is no need to allow the Administration to skip that by unilaterally declaring that “without immediate implementation of an authorization, intelligence important to the national security of the United States may be lost or not timely acquired.”
“Essentially, H.R. 6304 restores the oversight that has been missing in the President’s illegal wiretapping program — and with the same pen destroys it completely.”
disclaimer – i haven’t read the whole thing… but from what i have read, no i don’t favor it. not at all. i think taking a threatening posture towards iran is just the wrong thing to do if we don’t want them to pursue a deterrent nuclear weapon. and given that we have no evidence that they are doing anything other than what they are legally entitled to do (by the NPT), i really don’t understand our continued hostility. it seems wrong, dangerous and counterproductive to me.
and it’s not like this latest resolution is an outlier – last year there was h.con.res.21 and h.r.1400. seriously, what’s your thinking on this? i’m worried.
I’m sorry to say this, but it would be a good day for me if Pelosi and Reid would both lose their seats in the House and Senate respectively. I desperately WANT to back my Democratic leaders, but they just won’t DO anything to deserve that. The 2006 Mandates! End the war in Iraq and Stop the Bush Administration’s pillaging of our Constitution and Bill of Rights. They keep doing the polar opposite.
No one, in life, is irreplaceable and I wonder if they know that?
it’s really up to senator obama to earn my vote. i hope he will.
I’d like to hear than NO Democrats want a military confrontation with Iran.
And so would the rest of the nation.
It is rather clear that certain people DO want just that, and they have, heretofore, gotten just what they wanted.
Just out of curiousity, what would you, as a Senator, do if such a ‘confrontation’ were to occurr?
To whom would you give the benefit of the doubt?
Congressman Wexler,
What do you think will be the #1 priority of the Democrats in the House if Barak Obama wins the election?
First, don’t promote me yet, I am a proud member of the House. I don’t think I would fit in at the “upper chamber.” Congress has not authorized any military action in Iran and any such action would be illegal. To whom would I give the benefit of the doubt – not to President Bush.
I wish I could scan my phone bill for everyone’s enjoyment. Pages and pages of 202 long distance calls! Practically MONTHLY since 2005. My senator does not listen to me, nor do they act very interested in what I say, and I speak for most of my friends and ALL of my family.
sheeeeesh.
Those other suggestions, ones I have also acted on, are great ones. When all of that doesn’t work………
Well, I’m certain everyone here knows how I feel…….
Tomorrow the Pentagon releases a report admitting to the “fiasco” that was post-Iraq invasion.
Is the Israeli lobby controlling our foreign policy, also?
Bush’s hubris and greed for oil, and symbiosis with Israel, and a military industrial complex all ready?
Congressman,
I appreciate the idea of writing to the local papers. I wouldn’t have thought that would be noticed.
One thing I think most of us in the blogosphere have done is contributing to the campaigns of congressman from other states. Pennsylvania has a blue dog problem, so I’d rather see my money go to folks that don’t roll over to Republicans.
Are you kidding? You are just what the upper chamber needs to shake them up and bring them back to their senses. With all that collegiality they have forgotten about the rights of the people.
His brother in the House is the same. Won’t listen, and the reception from staff members runs from disinterested to irritated.
Welcome Congressman Wexler. But, the Democratic leadership has already approved Bush’s request for funding expanded covert operations against Iran. Congress has been circumvented. Have you seen Seymour Hersh’s article in the New Yorker?
I believe that President Obama and the Democratic House of Representatives will pursue these goals immediately: 1) Universal heath care, 2) Comprehensive alternative energy/global warming bill and 3) removing troops from Iraq.
In addition, for those of you tempted to hold back your vote for Obama, the agenda of President McCain will be: 1) A second surge in Iraq, 2) more likely military engagement with Iran, 3) privatization of social security, 4) more tax cuts for the wealthy.
Oops ‘Senator’ slipped out, but I kind of like the sound of it, hope it doesn’t offend too much.
;~D
Hello, Congressman Wexler,
I often work from home on days hearings are held and broadcast – joining others here live blogging and commenting real time. So, please know we are cheering you on, even though you don’t hear us.
I want to think well of my Reps and Senators, and perhaps this is why I am prone to ‘conspiracy thinking;’ that Democrats are not just feckless twits, but are really noble high-minded souls being blackmailed by pResident Bush – with personal dirt gleaned from wiretapping, (remember, this started BEFORE 9/11) or with some dire action like bombing Iran.
Have you seen any evidence of undue coercion, and if there is, expose it – we have your back.
Why not slip by saying Vice President Wexler? Eh?
This is what I’ve been saying, too. Why do they think that caving into the Republicans time after time makes people think they are “strong”? Too many Democrats are showing signs of the psychology of abuse victims.
Bob in HI
Its on my mind.
;~D
I wholeheartedly support those goals. Please help keep our nominee from going soft on these as well! Thank You
It’s noticed to the point that our boy, Lamar Smith and our worthless Senators will actually particularly stinging attacks. Pick out a major paper in their State/District, blast them on the facts, avoiding ad hominems, it’s like trolling for the big fish, they’ll rise for the bait every time! Then the other activist letter writers in town will swarm in to attack them. Always works, trust me!
Representative Wexler, can you now or Obama in the future do anything to “lift the freeze” on solar energy (on federal land) signed off on by Bu$hCo yesterday, or the day before? Can that be reversed? I understood it was to last for two years.
Heck, why not President Wexler!
omg
i’ve been making that error loudly all day.
crawling into blond mortification here.
Welcome Congressman!
How does Senator Obama plan to address the rampant corruption in DOJ and plan to undo the damage to our Constitution and its processes of checks and balances. In other words, how can we trust that our government will honor the rule of law going forward after this abysmal administration? Any thoughts?
If Obama goes with Vice President Wexler, I’ll change from a lukewarm supporter to a fighting champion!
Aw, we’re just ahead of the curve, siri.
;~D
If that were the case I would have to change my position on impeachment.
I agree, Bob. Learned helplessness. Reactive so long… can’t be proactive. After all these crazymaking years with Republican grid-lock. Gamesmanship. The secret of winning is not in playing. Transcending the game. Cutting the gordian knot. We have constitutional rules. We have checks and balances. The executive branch doesn’t need to take power away from the other branches. The Congress shouldn’t take the court’s power re FISA away and grant retroactive immunity!!! Talk about messy codependency and imbalance. All these fear-invoked patriot act type legislations that are good for the profiteering and featherbedding opportunities of cronies for profits.
am I understanding correctly that you are in favor of a President Obama negotiating with Iran to attempt to ease concerns about an Iranian nuclear capability?
And that at the same time, you are co-sponsoring a bill, non-binding though it may be, to ratchet up the pressure on Iran by means of what is quite possibly a war crime?
If one assumes that the blockade of a country with which we are not at war is itself a war crime, wouldn’t Iran be justified in retaliating – by, say, closing the Straits of Hormuz?
How is this not:
a) counter-productive to a later dialogue with Iran,
b) not going to cause more economic woes, if not disaster, to U.S. and world consumers of oil, and
c) embolden and incite George W. Bush, Dick Cheney, and the equally insane president of Iran?
OH. HUGS to you DWBartoo.
Someone always makes me feel better in here when I totally screw up.
Today was your turn.
HUGGGGZ!
You’re a blond? I’m mortified! lol. But I’m still big on the Congressman, I truly believe he is one of us.
The administration has managed to somehow retain many of the same veterans of administrations going back to Nixon and Ford, whose complicity in such things as the S&L mess and Iran-Contra are well documented and whose associations with groups like the Federalist Society have managed to corrupt the very fabric of our Republic.
Why have the current “leaders” in congress not stood up and spoken out against these people more forcefully? Certainly Rep Delahunt calling Addington (a long time Cheney toady) on the carpet was a sweet ending to the week… but it’s too little, too late.
Can we expect a bit more courage and a bit less cowardice this year?
I hope, Congressman Wexler, that you’ll print out what you’ve heard here today and share it with your colleagues. There is discontent with our ‘liberals’ — presented commenter excepted! We need STRONG leadership and we expected Obama to stand tall. He waffled on FISA — and that is not a good sign. If he waffles a few more times, I really fear that McCain will slip through. Help him stand up!
Good question, we will need to clean house after this election. The DOJ has been used as a political branch without true regard for the rule of law. President Obama will no doubt appoint an individual as Attorney General who has respect for the law – with regard to politics. We can fix the DOJ and we need to reinvigorate the civil rights and voting divisions (to only name a few) immediately.
*GIGGGGGGGLE*
clapping and laughing loudly,
I’d move to Florida to work on THAT campaign!
appears that some pups are thinking of voting for mcinsane – OMG!!!
Sir, what path do you see to a First Branch that jealously defends its powers? How can Congress reassert itself?
William Kristol about a week ago smirkily came out and said if it looked like McCain wouldn’t win, Bush would probably trigger war with Iran before Obama got into office.
and 4) encourage iran to consider attempting to develop nuclear weapons as a deterrent to our hostility?
Okay, Mr. Vice President Wexler
You predecessor, ‘Barnacle’, uh Dick Cheney, claimed that your office is neither fish nor fowl. He moved towards the foul.
Would you proclaim your own branch or will you sit on the logs around the fire and party with the rest of us?
I can’t believe anyone would not have figured that out by now.
yeah,
since birth!
and it shows
I’d just so prefer not to let it hang out when in the presence of a legislator!
Thank you! I’m so glad to know it’s on your radar and that you think it can be fixed. That’s hopeful.
What a horrible person he is. PNAC people need a visit to Walter Reed Hospital.
;~D
As a person who spent damned near a year of his life looking at the place and contemplating it, I believe if anything happens to the Strait of Hormuz we are screwed! It really is narrow, and tankers nowadays really are big. Even I can figure this out. They could have stopped it up in 79 and they damned sure will now! Any offensive action against Iran will instantly result in $200/BBL oil!
Congressman Wexler, Thank you very much for spending the afternoon here at the Lake and discussing your views with us.
Bob, Thank you for Hosting this Book Salon.
Everyone, if you don’t have a copy, this is a good time to buy Congressman Wexler’s book, there is a link above.
Everyone – thank you
Rep. Wexler is one of us, I believe so tooo.
As evidenced by his actions. His words too, but primarily his actions.
And “one of us” refers to patriots who love our country and won’t give Her up without a fight, in whatever form that might be required.
Good question – and an excellent one by which to conclude this terrific discussion. Congress must re-assert itself. This Administration has effectively governed as a imperial presidency without the checks and balances that the Founders designed. The vast majority of the fault is with the Bush Administration and their crimes and executive arrogance. But fault also lies with Democrats in Congress that too often fail to take on the President and hold him and Vice President Cheney accountable for their crimes.
I have learned a great deal today and I will discuss this conversation with my colleagues in the House and Senate.
Thanks to Bob Fertik and Firedoglake. Lets keep breathing fire! Until next time.
Robert
Encourage your local libraries to buy the book too!
Thank you Congressman Wexler for this visit and everyone who arranged it.
Thank you for your service to all of us, Congressman Wexler!!!
You are the best, and keep hope alive.
Congressman, can you share with us what is happening on the Karl Rove and Meiers “spit in the eye of Congress” front? Are the Dems. working this or letting it languish? Will we see Congress actually holding these people accountable for refusing to even show up to claim executive privlege?
Somewhere up above, Congressman Wexler explained that the resolution prohibits Unilateral action by the US to enforce a blockade. In other words, it lessens the possibility of the “Decider” just deciding to do this.
Someone correct me if I misread the response.
“accountable for their crimes”
THOSE are the words, Congressman, those are the words.
Thank you Rep. Wexler, for your time and candid honesty! You are honored and have friends here. Let us all move to the good Congressman’s donations page.
Please come back, Sir.
:)
Darn. Looks like my last question was too late.
Thank you Congressman Wexler for visiting with us today and thank you for all of the work that you’ve done on behalf of all of us.
Sir, thank you for taking time with us today. You did well to keep up with this spirited and passionate group. Thanks for hosting Bob.
Thank you, Mr. Vice President, for spending time with us.
Please come visit again, soon.
Thx. Rep.Wex!
And thank you, Bob Fertik!!!
But it seems like other posts are saying that per the Hersch article, there has already been some funding…
Great question. Wish it had been asked earlier, too!!!!
This was an amazing effort and a wonderful opportunity Bob Fertik. Thank you so much, and to the whole FDL team. I love this site and the good peeps here. What a stunning array of excellent questions and topics.
Good job on all of us pups, and what a wonderful Congressperson he is!
Marguerita’s all the way around. I’m mixing.
:)
What a treat. Thanks Congressman. I am most impressed by a person who comes and talks with us and then says he learned a lot and will discuss it with his collegues. We need more people like him on our side.
Bof F the pretext you put together was a complete and beautiful piece. The priorities, the challenges and the crew to get it done.
Bob Wexler can you give this text to Obama for us? I would add it to the Constitution it beat torture, wat and mayhem. The evidence needed for a full vetting is public information do you think we have enough to expose these outrages to the American people and let the nations of the world we are ashamed of the damage conservative like the Chicago Boys and other neocans like Bushco have inflicted upon them?
Teddy,
If you are still here, can you see outside? Has there been any improvement at all wrt the fires. It looks from Texas as though the entire state is on fire.
Thanks for saying this so well!
In case the Congressman isn’t already gone, I would ask him to do me one huge favor: Stay out of small airplanes. Please!
Do I look fat in this tinfoil?
Was he saying he would like the Vice Presidency? He’s too controversial for BO, I am sure! And so valuable in the House!
Iran is threatening U.S. hegemony in the region, I believe.
that’s what it looks like to me too. but i’d like to know what the good congressman’s reasons are. sadly the ones he gave just don’t make any sense to me. :(
Perfect! That’s the PERFECT answer to that burning question.
Brilliant, peony!
You look mahvahlous…
LOL! Thanks! :)
At this point we’re just exploring the options. (I think that is what is usually intoned)
I don’t think he would turn down the offer, but I think he is in it for the long haul, regardless …
Obama could do far worse, of course, hopefully not, but one never can tell about these things … (About the time selise is convinced Obama’s the one, I’ll get the message)
Ane ‘we’ could do far worse, as well.
Actually, haven’t a clue libby.
I like Wexler, but he pointedly did NOT answer some important questions as far as I’m concerned.
But then, I’m a hard ’sell’.
Hear, hear! After all, who’s to say after he’s elected Obama won’t find some “compromise” on Universal heath care, or Comprehensive alternative energy/global warming bill or removing troops from Iraq acceptable, regardless that it bears no resemblance to its original meaning or intent. The moral to the story is, sometimes you just have to take a big gulp and stand up for your principles…kinda like when President Clinton shut the government down.
LOL.
hard sell indeed.
I looked through for these comments but couldn’t find the reasons the congressman gave. I’ll look again.
It also occurs to me or I wonder about the history between the U.S. and Iran. I wonder if there is lingering maybe even subconscious hostility on our side because of the Iran hostage crisis.
What also occurs to me is that what would truly be in the U.S. interests, it seems to me, is to renounce its role as a hegemon and enter into a multi polar world where there is shared power among nations. The current role is bankrupting the country and inflicting suffering worldwide.
Well thank you, siri, for your kind words.
amen.
i’d vote for you. :)
Rest assured, Juslin, I won’t vote against Obama. I just might not vote for him. The way I look at it is this: Obama is trying very hard to smack us, his base, in the face and deny that he needs us. Word on the streets is that he’s doing it to appease some freshman Blue Dogs that are afraid they might not be able to ride his coat tails back to the House if he insists on bucking the President on FISA. We’re not much happy with these Blue Dogs anyway, so I don’t feel I’m the one that’s betraying anything here. He’s applying to me for a vote and a job; not the other way around, remember? We’ve covered that before.
Gee, that sounds familiar. Isn’t that what they said about the AUMF?
You did great! I was so impressed with the session. He met up with some fire-breathers himself and about time. And skipped over some significant questioning. I think you are right. Citizenry giving these guys a cake walk. Citizens may not respect Congress, but not monitoring very closely. No help from MSM for sure, or the WRONG help. Will check out his book for sure.
Similar I think, but not the same. He did have to have the UN inspectors go in first and he was supposed to let them finish looking before taking action, but we all know how well that worked out. He did have to find a “coalition of the willing” to go into Iraq, but good luck with that. He’s so squandered our ability to coerce that I don’t know if he could do the same today.
Bush will find a way to get his way and what didn’t work to stop him before might work now. I don’t know. But I can also understand the need to try to prevent him getting his way somehow. Per Wexler: Legislation to stop him is in the works (as is impeachment). It’s a hard fight.
This is a national security strategy that I can support and which would truly advance the peace and security of the United States, imho. That would be “change I can believe in.” It sounds to me from Wexler’s responses that along with probably all his colleagues in the House, Senate, as well as present and past administrations, he supports U.S. power and control in the region and world wide. So, he also sees Iran as a threat. He and his colleagues only differ from the Republicans in the ways and means to deal with the threat.
I am glad you are having this part of the discussion. I thought his answers about Iran were very vague and unsatisfactory…he ignored the topic as long as he could IMO. I certainly understand his case for Obama, and he made it clearly. Not so much of the Iran story. Very disappointing, I thought…as we muddle along at a faster pace, I guess.
The fact of the matter is that no nation is actually a “threat” to this country. While some could withhold a resource such as oil they would only do that if they felt they were threatened and it was their only option. The US has demonstrated that it considers OIL OUR strategic interest even if it lies inside and underground in another nation.
Only the US seeks to control and dominate other nations with threats of bombing and attack.
I don’t feel threatened by Iran, Iraq, the Taliban or even Al Qaeda. If we don’t like what they are doing, ignore them, get out of their countries and mind our own business.
We will not be attacked by Iran… EVER.
Americans especially those in congress need to get over the idea of American Exceptionalism, that we are god’s’ give to the planet and can do no wrong and we have a right to interfere in the affairs of other nations.
The CIA especially as an extension of the executive branch has been meddling in other nations for almost 6 decades. This has to stop.
We have plenty of domestic problems to focus on and the rest of the world can take care of themselves… especially if we let them.
“Why you may not agree politically with Reps. Hoyer and Emanuel – they were vital in our efforts to take back the house. Rahm put together an unprecedented DCCC operation that put the financial resources in the right places and allowed us to win back the majority.”
Is this really true? I thought it was Dean’s 50 State strategy, that Emanuel fought tooth and nail before the election, and then tried to take credit for after the election.
Bob in HI
Yes, and voters deeply disgusted with the status quo. Appears Rham’s colleagues buy into his arrogant self-aggrandizement. Makes one wonder…
Sander, when I use the word “threat” I am talking about from the point of view of the people running our government. My recent comments are an attempt to articulate two very different mind sets and try to respond to the frustration I’m hearing in some of the commenters. After reading Wexler’s responses to questions about Iran, I suspect the reason why we find his answers unsatisfying is that he shares the mind set of probably every member of Congress, that Iran is a threat to our power and dominance in the Middle East. His language, even though he talks about diplomacy and not military action, is still adversarial. We have a different mindset and very different desires and goals for our country and its place in the world.
As far as “getting over American exceptionalism,” sadly I think it will take an economic collapse or some national calamity for this getting over to happen.
What???
“Perhaps it’s because Congressional Democrats don’t understand why they won in 2006 and why they are heading for victory again in 2008.”
I have news for you. The democrats may have picked up a nominal majority – but bush and the republicans won! They got a bunch of enabling democrats in office that roll over on command. There are a few principled democrats who try to bring about change, try to promote accountability, but the vast majority are republican enablers. The democratic “leadership” is too milquetoast to even require that there be an actual (gasp, dare I say the word?) filibuster by the republicans when they threaten one – the threat is made and the “leadership” rolls over.
Hopefully there will be a lot more democrats in the house and senate following the next election. But, I would rather have a few less if we can get some democrats with some backbone!