It is clear that the less we do in the near-term, the more we have to do in the long-term. But if we set a target that is un-meetable technically, or we can’t pass it politically, then we’re in the same position we are in now… where the world looks to us and we are out of the regime.
Jonathan Pershing • The U.S. Deputy Special Envoy for Climate Change, speaking at a UN conference in Bonn, Germany. The big kids on the block are trying to improve their global warming standards but at a feasible rate – a notable change from Bush administration policy. • source
We have succeeded in creating in the heart of the Middle East a democratically-governed Iraq, and it is in fact what we set out to do.
Dick Cheney • Ex-Veep under the Bush administration, on their success with the War in Iraq. It was disruptive and worthy of shoe-throwing incidents, but yeah, they did it. • source
As we work toward developing a new policy to govern detainees, it is essential that we operate in a manner that strengthens our national security, is consistent with our values and is governed by law.
Attorney general Eric Holder • On the administration’s new policy of holding detainees, which differs heavily from the Bush administration. They plan to stop using the term “enemy combatants” and say that international law governs the detention of terrorism suspects – and it isn’t like Guantanamo Bay, which they plan to close. • source
Sanjay Gupta withdraws his name from conisderation. The CNN face of health – who has nearly as many jobs as Ryan Seacrest – would’ve given up a significant – and lucrative – media empire in the name of public service, and he wasn’t willing to make the sacrifice. Why man? It’s not like anyone else is tightening their belts right now. source
Why they’re doing it The former Bush advisers will be testifying on the firings of U.S. attorneys, allegedly for political reasons. The testimony of the, uh, dynamic duo will be released in transcript form. No word on if it’ll be public yet.
Why it should be fun Rove went out of his way to avoid testifying – he was apparently told by his counsel that executive privilege prevented him from testifying. Apparently, negotiations took place to make all sides happy. source
Our challenge is much greater today because the American people have lost faith in the leaders of our financial institutions, and are skeptical that their government has – to this point – used taxpayers’ money in ways that will benefit them.
Timothy F. Geithner • Treasury secretary, who will announce a bailout plan for the banks today. • source
