Candidates ask for holiday

Presidential candidates propose plans to alleviate ever-increasing gasoline prices.

Hillary Clinton and John McCain are offering a new idea for gas prices. They claim a holiday is needed.
The holiday will suspend the federal tax on gas from Memorial Day until Labor Day.
"The effect will be an immediate economic stimulus- taking a few dollars off the price of a tank of gas every time a family, a farmer, or trucker stops to fill up," McCain said.
It is hoped the holiday will save Americans money by mitigating the rising price of fuel.
Economists say cutting gas prices by a little over 18 cents per gallon will stimulate demand for more gas.

For more information, please visit the following:
1. Possible gain unlikely
http://www.newsweek.com/id/135323/page/2
2. Hillary has plan
http://www.hillaryclinton.com/issues/energy/
3. McCain calls for holiday
http://abcnews.go.com/Politics/wireStory?id=4654261
4. Clinton defends plan
http://firstread.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2008/04/29/958462.aspx

Bush wants more money

President Bush is pushing for more money from Congress this week.

During an appearance at the White House, Bush asked Congress to give more than $700 million to lessen the impact of rising food prices worldwide.
Escalating costs are leading to widespread hunger and social unrest, claims Bush. His plan is part of a $70 billion war funding measure which was sent to Capitol Hill on Thursday.
Bush said America will spend $5 billion on food aid and related programs between this year and the next.
"In some of the world's poorest nations, rising prices can mean the difference between getting a daily meal and going without food," he said.

1. Bush makes another demand
http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,353776,00.html
2. Presidents asks for more
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/24410358/
3. Possible shift in aid
http://www.congoo.com/news/2008May2/Bush-Pushes-Shift-Food-Aid
4. American crisis going global
http://wcbstv.com/national/President.Bush.food.2.713630.html

Another assassination attempt

- The president of Afghanistan has survived a fourth attack.

The Taliban has claimed responsibility for an attack on President Hamid Karzai.
President Hamid Karzai has been attacked on Sunday during an anniversary celebration in Kabul.
The ceremony marked the mujahedeen victory over the Soviet occupation of Afghanistan.
Karzai said during a live TV address that arrests have been made.
"Everything is calm, rest assured," he said.
One blogger who watched a video from The Associated Press says Afghanistan has been devastated by wars, and the people are dying of hunger. The blogger states change is needed in the country.

For more information, please see the following Web sites:
1. Fourth assassination attempt
http://blog.foreignpolicy.com/node/8737
2. Narrow escape
http://www.wsws.org/articles/2008/apr2008/afgh-a29.shtml
3. President escapes
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mjpwYUcnTwM
4. Attacked during parade
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/south_asia/7369540.stm

White House wants answers

- The U.S. demands to know the truth behind Syria's supposed nuclear reactor.

The White House is claiming that North Korea helped Syria with a secret nuclear program. The revelation could undermine attempts to resolve a nuclear standoff with North Korea.
"...This reactor was not intended for peaceful activities," White House press secretary Dana Perino said.
The White House says Syria's facility was never intended for 'peaceful purposes,' according to The Associated Press.
The White House is demanding that Syria expose the truth about their nuclear program.

For more information, see the following:
1. U.S. makes claim
http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/world/middle_east/7364269.stm
2. Syria needs to 'come clean'
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/24293375/
3. Syria denies U.S. claim
http://www.examiner.com/a-1359897~Syria_denies_US_claims_of_a_secret_nuclear_program.html
4. President of Syria denies claim
http://www.foxnews.com/wires/2008Apr25/0,4670,SyriaNuclear,00.html

Less food means more turmoil

-Rising costs of food items is causing worldwide poverty which, in turn, threatens the livelihood of food programs.

People are going into poverty because of sharply rising food prices, according to http://www.readexpress.com/.

The issue of food prices threatens U.N.-backed food programs for children, top U.N. officials said.
Costs for basic food supplies has risen in recent months in part because of rising costs in fuel prices and the demand for biofuel production.
"This is the new face of hunger- the millions of people who were not in the urgent hunger category six months ago but now are," Josette Sheeran, executive director of the World Food Program, said.
Should rising prices continue, rioting could increase worldwide, analysts say.

1. Rising costs trouble world leaders
http://www.dawn.com/2008/04/26/top12.htm
2. Food is global crisis
http://www.whotv.com/Global/story.asp?S=8227069&nav=2HAB
3. Warning of food prices
http://www.iol.co.za/index.php?set_id=1&click_id=24&art_id=vn20080426091103807C651809
4. 'Real global crisis'
http://www.kjrh.com/news/world/story.aspx?content_id=e6cea404-1778-4998-93d1-851b16099bb8

Possible power change

-The presidential election in Paraguay is shows a desire for political change in the region.

Fernando Lugo is making progress in Paraguay's presidential election, according to Sunday's exit polls. Lugo is a former Roman Catholic bishop who has been dubbed the "bishop of the poor," according to The Associated Press.
A win for Lugo would bring the 61-year reign of the Colorado Party to an end.
The exit polls were a concern for candidate Blanca Ovelar, who disputed the exit poll results.
"We are going to await the provisional official results from election authorities," Ovelar said.

For more information, see the following:
1. People call for Lugo
http://www.cnn.com/2008/WORLD/americas/04/20/paraguay.elections.ap/index.html
2. Ovelar awaits victory
http://www.javno.com/en/world/clanak.php?id=107420
3. Former bishop leads race
http://www.mercopress.com/vernoticia.do?id=13104&formato=HTML
4. Lugo gets slightly ahead
http://www.heraldextra.com/component/option,com_contentwire/task,view/id,40315/Itemid,53/

good news, bad news

- A Democratic presidential debate is the most watched and least favored program, according to a network's Web site.

ABC News has received record ratings and poor reviews for a Democratic presidential debate which aired Wednesday.
"The poor reviews are a sign of how much people care," said George Stephanopoulos, moderator during the event.
The debate had two moderators, Stephanopoulos and Charles Gibson, and it drew in record ratings.
"The questions were tough and fair and appropriate and relevant," Stephanopoulus said.
Both Democratic presidential candidates agreed on one thing for certain during the debate. Each of them could defeat John McCain.

1. Record rates, poor critiques
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-srv/express/pdfs/EXPRESS_04182008.pdf
2. Highs and lows
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-srv/express/pdfs/EXPRESS_04182008.pdf
3. Debate missed out?
http://pushingrope.blogspot.com/2008/04/abc-news-presidential-debate.html
4. Presidential hopefuls attack
http://news.yahoo.com/elections

Global Warming plan offered

-Greenhouse gases are being addressed by Bush this week.
The president of the United States has called for a halt to growth of greenhouse gas emissions in the U.S. by 2005. Bush wants to develop national goals to address climate change.
Bush is attempting to address concerns that Congress could pass legislation which would effect economic growth and hopes to solve global warming without heavy costs to the industry.
Bush's proposal was part of efforts to oppose the Senate bill which would require mandatory caps on greenhouse gas emissions.
"... America's national plan will be a comprehensive blend of market incentives and regulations to reduce emissions by encouraging clean and efficient energy technologies," Bush said.

For more information, see the following:
1. Plan of Action
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-srv/express/pdfs/EXPRESS_04172008.pdf
2. Incentive or action?
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2007/05/31/AR2007053100934.html
3. Halt is needed
http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20080416/ap_on_go_pr_wh/bush_climate
4. Bush proposes goals
http://www.nytimes.com/2007/06/01/washington/01prexy.html

Victory shows promise

-Voting for prime minister continues in Italy.
Silvio Berlusconi has won a victory in Italy's primary election.
"Berlusconi won... because people feel that on the other side, the government is going to take them nowhere," said Franco Pavoncello, a political science professor at Rome's John Cabot University.
Two years ago, Berlusconi lost to Romano Prodi. Berlusconi is on his way to a third term as prime minister after Prodi's government has failed to please his people, sources say.

For more information, visit the following:
1. Berlusconi on his way
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-srv/express/pdfs/EXPRESS_04152008.pdf
2. The Good, the bad, and Berlusconi
http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/world/europe/3034600.stm
3. Earned or given?
http://www.economist.com/opinion/displaystory.cfm?story_id=1957150
4. Frustration leads to Berlusconi
http://www.nytimes.com/2008/04/15/world/europe/15italy.html?hp

Pelosi makes push

-House Speaker pushes for change to avoid free-trade deal with Columbia.

The House will change rules to avoid a required vote on a free-trade agreement with Columbia, said House Speaker Nancy Pelosi.
"If the president wants us to consider a Columbia free-trade agreement, which we are pleased and responsible to do, we cannot consider that unless we address the economic insecurity of America's working families," Pelosi said.
The change would remove the timetable imposed on Congress, she said. The timetable says Congress has 90 days to pick up a trade bill after receiving it from the White House. Pelosi will bring the proposal to the House on Thursday.

1. Pelosi makes her move
http://www.theleftshue.com/2008/04/pelosi-makes-move-on-columbia-free.html
2. Trade Pact sent to Congress
http://hosted.ap.org/dynamic/stories/B/BUSH_COLOMBIA?SITE=KMIZTV&SECTION=ELECTION06&TEMPLATE=DEFAULT&CTIME=2008-04-07-23-39-15
3. House delay Columbia vote
http://www.kneb.com/news/agricultural/197ff0fd-82d4-49c1-8861-8cc4ed85c0d9
4. Economic security threatened
http://www.kneb.com/news/agricultural/197ff0fd-82d4-49c1-8861-8cc4ed85c0d9

Pope to address sex crimes

-During a planned visit next week, the Pope will speak of the clergy sex abuse crisis.

Pope Benedict XVI will speak about the clergy sex abuse crisis during his U.S. visit next week, Cardinal Tarcisio Bertone told The Associated Press. The cardinal added he is aware of anti-papal rhetoric from Islamic extremists.
The Pope caused an uproar throughout the Islamic world in 2006 when he linked the religion to violence, and he plans to turn to security and his faith during this trip to keep him out of harm's way, said the cardinal.
"We have faith in the means of protection the government will implement," Bertone said.

1. Pope seeks healing
http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,350933,00.html
2. Sex crisis addressed
http://www.breitbart.com/article.php?id=D8VTRVBO0&show_article=1
3. American visit from Pope
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/24016663/
4. Pope to address damage, pain of sexual abuse
http://www.thenewstribune.com/news/nationworld/story/330380.html

Bush goes to Olympics

- Amid protesting, Bush says he's going to China.

Presidential candidate Hillary Rodham Clinton wants President Bush to stay home instead of going to the Olympics opening ceremonies in Beijing. Should Bush change his mind about attending the event, politics could rule over the Olympics this summer.
There has been constant protesting against China since violence erupted in Tibet.
Clinton claims the Bush administration "has been wrong to downplay human rights in its policy towards China."
Bush plans to attend the Olympics this summer, under the belief that it is a sporting event rather than a political one.

For more information, visit the following sources.
1. Bush urged to boycott
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/main.jhtml?xml=/news/2008/04/07/ntorch907.xml
2. Speaking out against China
http://www.nytimes.com/2008/03/22/world/asia/22prexy.html?partner=rssnyt&emc=rss
3.Despite issues, president visits Olympics
http://archive.japantoday.com/jp/news/428232
4. Political move needed in China
http://www.humanevents.com/article.php?id=25774

Bush Proposes Europe Missile Shield

-NATO endorses a proposed Europe Missile Shield.

A U.S. missile defense system based in Europe will be endorsed by NATO. Officials hope the defense system will lessen fear of nuclear attacks.
NATO leaders agreed on Thursday to endorse the system, and they promised to provide more troops for Afghanistan as well.
Fear of attacks have escalated since 911, according to recent polls. Leaders hope to dissuade future incidents and to alleviate fears that American citizens may have about the possibility of another attack with the missile defense system.
"There has been, over 10 years, a real debate as to whether there is a ballistic missile threat," said Stephen J. Hadley, Bush's national security adviser. "And I think that debate ended today."
Although NATO endorsed Bush's missile defense system, the leaders wouldn't back the president's move to allow Ukraine and Georgia into the Membership Action Plan (MAP), which "holds a set of requirements and reforms necessary to achieving full alliance membership," according to The New York Times.
Bush mentioned his desire to resolve issues so that Ukraine and Georgia can enter into NATO as quickly as possible.

1. NATO Backs Bush
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-srv/express/pdfs/EXPRESS_04042008.pdf
2. World Leaders Behind President's Move
http://www.nytimes.com/2008/04/04/world/europe/04nato.html?ex=1364961600&en=7c6279ba02c9c6b9&ei=5088&partner=rssnyt&emc=rss
3. No Membership For Georgia Or Ukraine
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/23911149/
4. NATO Supports Measure
http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20080402/ap_on_re_eu/bush

Palestinian Land Dispute

-Fighting over a piece of land could disrupt peace negotiations between Israel and Palestine.

Israel plans to build more than 1,000 homes on land which Palestinians have claimed for a future state. The issue is causing interference with U.S. Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice's talk with Israel to discuss removing West Bank roadblocks as a step toward achieving peace with the Palestinians.

Rice had expected for the removal to happen soon.
"We've been told that this is going to start and, hopefully even be completed, in a relatively short period of time," she said.

Peace talks could be hindered if the two nations can't decide amongst themselves which country has rights to the disputed land.

1. Rice Helps Peace Talks
http://www.cnn.com/2008/WORLD/meast/03/30/us.mideast.ap/index.html?iref=24hours
2. Possible Peace Deal?
http://www.haaretz.com/hasen/spages/970245.html
3. Israel Pledges Removal
http://www.jpost.com/servlet/Satellite?pagename=JPost%2FJPArticle2FShowFull&cid=1206632368305
4.Land Hinder's Rice's Plans
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-srv/express/pdfs/EXPRESS_04012008.pdf

U.S. Housing Secretary Resigns

-Housing and Urban Development Secretary Alphonso Jackson announces his resignation today.

The U.S. Housing secretary will be leaving office on April 18. Alph0nso Jackson is currently under investigation for his role in government contracts. His resignation will trigger changes in personnel. Senator Christopher J. Dodd hopes the replacements will create policy change which will bring an end to the current sub-prime mortgage crisis.
During a press conference, Jackson said he had "improved housing opportunities for all Americans" during his time spent as secretary.
"There comes a time when one must attend more diligently to personal and family matters," Jackson added.

1. HUD Secretary Leaves
http://www.latimes.com/news/nationworld/nation/la-na-jackson1apr01,1,1929624.story

2. Bush Administration Corrupt?
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/peter-dreier/hud-secretary-alphonso-ja_b_94787.html

3. Embattled Administrator Gives Up
http://www.bizjournals.com/dallas/stories/2008/03/31/daily1.html

4. Farewell to Quitter?
http://wonkette.com/374182/farewell-alphonso-jackson-latest-bush-official-to-quit

No refinery delay in Kuwait

-Kuwait does not expect a delay in the construction of an oil refinery, despite a land dispute with Saudi Arabia.

There will be no delays in the construction of one of the largest oil refineries in the world, according to Kuwait National Petroleum Co (KNPC).
Kuwait is set to complete the oil refinery as soon as possible, as evidenced by KNPC's project update.
KNPC wants to build the refinery in the neutral zone between Kuwait and Saudi Arabia despite the fact that Saudi Arabian Chevron has a lease on a portion of the land.
"We are currently in the stage of evaluating the bids. Once contractors are selected, the execution will begin," said Ahmad al-Jemaz, deputy managing director of KNPC's Shuaiba refinery.
Contracts will be awarded in April, according to newspapers.

1. No Arguments
http://uk.reuters.com/article/oilRpt/idUKL3065861320080330?pageNumber=1&virtualBrandChannel=0
2. Land Dispute
http://www.reuters.com/article/companyNewsAndPR/idUSL1159674620071011
3. Major World Disputes
http://www.didyouknow.cd/story/disputes.htm
4. Political Upheaval Won't Delay
http://www.gulfbase.com/site/interface/NewsArchiveDetails.aspx?cntr=0&n=57446

Ex-Governor Free

-Former Alabama Governor Don Siegelman has been released on bond today.

Don Siegelman is no longer in prison today after the United States Court of Appeals overturned a federal judge's refusal to release him on bond.
"It feels great to be out," he said. "I wish I could say it was over. But we're a long way from the end of this."
The former governor was convicted in June of taking half a million dollars from Richard Scrushy in exchange for an appointment to Alabama's hospital licensing board.
The New York Times states that the case "... has become a flash point for Democratic contentions that politics influenced decisions by the Justice Department."
Siegelman may testify to the House Judiciary Committee about "the nature of his prosecution," sources say.

1.Politics Played Role
http://www.nytimes.com/2008/03/29/washington/28cnd-siegelman.html?_r=1&hp=&adxnnl=1&oref=slogin&adxnnlx=1206929413-XebGCvMxgRByRYLtGKu6Ig
2. Raw Deal?
http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2008/02/21/60minutes/main3859830.shtml
3. Political Persecution Possible
http://thinkprogress.org/2008/02/21/rove-wanted-dirty-details-on-siegelman/
4. Rove Involved?
http://markcrispinmiller.blogspot.com/2007/12/siegelman-speaks-ex-gov-calls-02.html

Internet Politics

-Presidential candidates are branching out by embracing the Internet as a useful tool.

Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton are two of the presidential hopefuls creating Internet Web sites as a part of their campaign strategies.
More than half of the U.S. population use the Internet, and young adults make up a large portion of this figure. By using untapped resources such as the Internet, the candidates are reaching voters who get their news and information from sources other than television and radio.
However, Clinton has used the Internet not only to promote herself but also to denounce the other candidates. She told reporters "...well, now the fun part starts," when she was telling of her plans to attack Democrats until the caucuses in Iowa begin.
With the unlimited amount of space available via the Internet, regulations may be needed in order for the politicians to play fairly with their new resources.

1. Hillary's MySpace Page
http://www.myspace.com/hillaryclinton

2. Obama's Facebook
http://http://www.facebook.com/barackobama

3. Youtube Smackdown
http://http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_ytGaPqclSA

4. Clinton Web sites Attack Obama
http://http://abcnews.go.com/Politics/Vote2008/story?id=4032659

Olympics Are On

-Bush is planning for a trip to the Beijing Olympics despite turmoil from within.

President Bush will attend the Beijing Olympics amid protesting in Tibet.
The protests are in response to Chinese rule over the country, and they have drawn a harsh response from Beijing. Over 300 people have already been hurt, according to authorities.
The European Union is speaking out against boycotting the Beijing Olympics, however, because they believe it would not help the issue in China.
Bush hopes his decision will "shine a spotlight on all things Chinese."
"This should be about the athletes and not necessarily about politics," presidential spokeswoman Dana Perino Bush told The Associated Press.

1. Bush Going To China
http://ap.google.com/article/ALeqM5gsyGHt8_6nQVs3lCPm-UWHQkFceAD8VH8ADG0
2. Human Rights Issue In Beijing
http://www.rsf.org/rubrique.php3?id_rubrique=174
3. Amnesty International Upset
http://www.usatoday.com/sports/olympics/2007-08-07-1143000254_x.htm
4. Possible Terror Plots
http://www.news.com.au/heraldsun/beijing_olympics

McCain Draws In Votes

-Peace in the Middle East is being sought by McCain.
Senator John McCain has met with Israel's Prime Minister, Ehud Olmert, and Foreign Minister Tzipi Livni to discuss the possibility of peace between Israel and Palestine.
The two countries are caught in a religious tug-of-war, and if McCain serves as a mediator between the two feuding nations, it could gain votes from the Jewish community.
Although the efforts to relieve tension will stand out to voters, so to will his lack of communication with Palestinian officials, sources say.
"I would have loved that he showed up...Maybe one day Palestinians will have money for your campaigns in the United States," said veteran Palestinian negotiator Saeb Erekat.

1. Palestine Not Reached
http://teresacentric.com/2008/03/some-quick-politics-hits-for-a-monday-night/
2. Tale of Two Nations
http://www.merip.org/palestine-israel_primer/toc-pal-isr-primer.html
3. McCain Enters Fight
http://www.courant.com/news/politics/hc-caucus0320.artmar20,0,2583681.story
4. McCain Backing Reprisals
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/23709662/

Obama Making Speech

-Presidential candidate Barack Obama will discuss race and politics in Pennsylvania.

Illinois Democrat Barack Obama will be giving a speech in Philadelphia today, during which he plans to discuss the role of race in American politics.
Race is an issue which Obama has tried to avoid during the presidential campaign, sources say. The speech could make or break his political career, depending on what is said.
Obama's aides say his choice to give the speech is driven partially by developments which are sensitive to the issue of his race.
"If Obama was a white man, he would not be in this position," said Geraldine A. Ferraro, former Democratic vice presidential candidate.

1. Obama preparing speech
http://presidentialpolitics.blogspot.com/2008/03/obamas-race-speech.html
2. Race and Politics in Pennsylvania
http://www.latimes.com/news/nationworld/politics/la-na-campaign18mar18,1,2281462.story
3. Speech Over Pastor
http://www.boston.com/news/nation/articles/2008/03/18/obama_to_take_on_race_politics_unity_in_us/
4. Major Obama Speech
http://teresacentric.com/2008/03/some-quick-politics-hits-for-a-monday-night/

Possible Casinos In Kentucky

- Kentucky has been put on hold this week by the House.

A proposed constitutional amendment for the state must wait for the House to pass a budget this week. The amendment would allow nine casinos in Kentucky.
Steve Beshear, governor of Kentucky, said more support for the amendment is needed to pass the House.
This slowdown will give the state more time to obtain support for the proposed amendment.
"We're still trying," said Beshear.

1. Beshear Wants Support
http://www.courier-journal.com/blogs/politics/2008/03/beshear-says-casino-bill-effectively-on.html
2. Possible Tourism Increase
http://www.wbko.com/home/headlines/16011712.html
3. Casino Plan Failing
http://www.wbko.com/home/headlines/16011712.html
4. Benefits vs. Chaos
http://www.topix.com/forum/city/owingsville-ky/TGMQ8HJ4KTP9IFMAS

Prime Minister Retiring

-Nepali Prime Minister Prasad Koirala announces his plans for retirement.
After the upcoming Constituent Assembly (CA) polls, Nepali Prime Ministers plans to retire from the world of politics.
"I am old now," he told The Associated Press.
The CA polls will be held April 10.
A new generation of politicians will take over leadership of the Nepali Congress leadership.
Koirala hopes the Nepali Congress gets the majority in the CA election.

1. PM to retire
http://news.xinhuanet.com/english/2008-03/11/content_7767438.htm
2. CA Poll Controversy
http://www.election.gov.np/EN/detail_news.php?id=83
3. Core Aim of CA elections
http://www.mainstreamweekly.net/article338.html
4. Possible Election Observance
http://www.aboutxinjiang.com/news/content/2008-03/17/content_2491782.htm

Possible Tax Cut In Canada

-Ottawa could face a tax break.

Canadian Finance Minister Jim Flaherty feels tax cuts could stimulate economic growth in Canada.
This news comes after Flaherty blamed Premier Dalton McGuinty of undercutting the Ontario economy with high business taxes. McGuinty has been polarized by parts of the business community because of the accusation.

Flaherty, who is concerned with the economic stability of Ottawa, said "Dalton McGuinty likes to blame others for his problems."

1. Canada in Turmoil
http://www.thestar.com/News/Canada/article/326788
2. U.S. Rates Monitored
http://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pid=20601082&sid=aAKEOy6pOzPg&refer=canada
3. Flaherty's Budget
http://www.canadianbusiness.com/managing/strategy/article.jsp?content=20080226_203406_7004
4. Tax Reforms Needed
http://www.canadianbusiness.com/after_hours/opinions/article.jsp?content=20071119_198720_198720

Death Strikes Fear

- Spain's politics are divided into two popular fractions.

Isaias Carrasco, a socialist former councillor, has been murdered in Spain. His murder came just two days before Spain's general election, and it struck fear into some citizens.

On Friday, the parliamentary parties signed a joint declaration with the Popular Party (PP), which has been competing with the socialists for political power in Spain.

The PP remains under the influence of the Catholic Church, and some fear that the country has been divided politically into "two Spains," according to news reports. With the loss, some citizens question whether the country could survive losses financially or otherwise.

"The slowing of the economy is widespread across Europe," said Rosa Cabellerro, an insurance worker living in a Madrid suburb.
1. Two Spains
http://www.sundayherald.com/misc/print.php?artid=2104832
2. Carrasco Shot
http://afp.google.com/article/ALeqM5iDJC5tha4zocxrRh0JWDSAeEAb1A
3. Will Spain Unite?
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/main.jhtml?xml=/news/2008/03/07/wspain207.xml
4. ETA Plays Part
http://www.buzzle.com/editorials/5-17-2005-70098.asp

Loss of Aide

-Obama's foreign policy advisor resigns after a British newspaper published a statement about Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton.

Samantha Power, foreign policy adviser to Democratic presidential candidate Barack Obama, has resigned. Her resignation follows a statement published by The Scotsman, a British newspaper.

During an interview with the newspaper, Power said "She is a monster, too - that is off the record- she is stooping to anything." The presidential race has proven itself challenging, and both Clinton and Obama are trying to dot their I's and cross their T's in order to gain votes.

Obama must now regain the composure of his campaign in time for the primary in Wyoming this weekend. Power's statement could be enough to tip the vote in Clinton's favor this weekend, according to political analysts.

1.Advisor Resignation
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/03/07/AR2008030700781_pf.html
2. Gloves come off
http://www.slate.com/blogs/blogs/trailhead/archive/2008/03/07/power-outage.aspx
3. Off the record
http://thescotsman.scotsman.com/latestnews/Inside-US-poll-battle-as.3854371.jp
4. Obama Rethinks Position
http://www.smh.com.au/news/us-election/obama-reeling-after-jibe/2008/03/08/1204780127216.html

Bush Makes Promise

-The president has pledged American aid in Columbia.



President Bush told Colombian President Alvaro Uribe that America will offer support and $600 million per year to Columbia should war occur between the country and Venezuela.



"I told the president that America fully supports Columbia's democracy and that we firmly oppose any acts of aggression that could destabilize the region," Bush told the associated press.



There is a distinct possibility that the country's actions could result in war between Columbia, Venezuela, and Ecuador. With Bush's pledge, American troops could be preparing to pack their bags for another war on foreign soil.



Columbia has been in conflict with Venezuela and Ecuador since Colombian forces killed Raul Reyes, a Colombian Marxist, who was on Ecuadorian soil at the time.



Venezuela and Ecuador considered the action to be a call for war.



With Bush's time in office coming to an end, his promises will have a direct impact on the next president's agenda while in the White House.



Please visit the articles listed below for more information:
1. Daily Habit Reports on Bush
http://the115.wordpress.com/2008/03/05/the-daily-habit-politics-7/

2. Bush Is "Devil"
http://www.salem-news.com/articles/march052008/chavez_buildup_3-5-08.php

3. Troops At Colombian Border
http://www.csmonitor.com/2008/0304/p04s01-woam.html

4. Colombian Raid in Ecuador
http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=87922264

Texas and Ohio

-Texas and Ohio primaries could be the last stop on Clinton's campaign trail.

The last chance for Clinton's campaign could be at the state primaries in Texas and Ohio.

The two states may be the deciding factor between Clinton and Obama. The two Democrats are in a race for their party's nomination. The winner of the primaries will be competing against Republican John McCain, political analysts say.

Obama has overcome Clinton's lead in Texas, and defeat in the state could knock Clinton out of the election altogether.

"Obama is quite capable of being a formidable candidate," said Dale Bumpers, former Arkansas senator. "He'd do a fine job as president."

However, the race isn't over yet, and many Clinton supporters refuse to go down without a fight.

Former president Bill Clinton believes his wife will receive the nomination if she wins in Texas and Ohio.

Pennsylvania's primary will be held April 22, and the election will occur Nov. 4.

For more information, visit the following:
1. Killing A Political Giant
http://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pid=20601070&sid=aGibqe.b3IlY&refer=home#

2. Controversy Surrounds Political Ads
http://blog.washingtonpost.com/the-talk/2008/03/clinton_obama_aides_tangle_ove.html?hpid=topnews

3. Media Bias
http://www.nytimes.com/2008/03/03/business/media/03us.html?ref=business

4. Obama's Plan of Action http://www.foreignaffairs.org/20070701faessay86401/barack-obama/renewing-american-leadership.html

Rally Bares All

-Upset Filipinos cause a stir in Manila today.

In Manila today, thousands of Filipinos held a rally to protest government corruption in their country.

The protests are creating a stir for investors, who fear that the rally may cause the Manila stock index to fall considerably.

The controversy began when a former government employee testified to the Philippine Senate that the husband of Philippine President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo was involved in an allegedly tampered telecommunications contract which indebted both the government and tax-payers.

Some of the protesters are demanding a resignation from Arroyo for her husband's involvement in the controversy, sources say.

One of the people involved with the rally said protests such as this one "are the biggest show of force, the strongest message of rejection of Arroyo."

For more information on this controversy, visit:
1. Controversial Protesters Unite
http://news.xinhuanet.com/english/2008-02/29/content_7694777.htm

2. Anti-Arroyo Protest
http://www.reuters.com/article/worldNews/idUSMAN15878620080229

3. Manila Musings
http://musingsfrommanila.blogspot.com/2008/02/protest-to-improve-economy.html

4. Demonstrators Coming Forth
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/inquirerheadlines/nation/view/20080216-119227/10000-display-outrage

Thaksin Gives Up Politics

-The deposed prime minister of Thailand gives up his position today.

At a press conference in a Bangkok hotel today, Thaksin Shinawatra said he is quitting politics. The announcement will end 17 months of self-exile, sources say.

Allegations and charges brought up against him and his family were also brought up during his speech. The charges were brought up against him after a military coup overthrew Thailand's government and forced him into self-exile, according to sources.

"We have no time to quarrel," he said. "I want to see Thai people unite and forget what has happened."

Prior to his return, Thailand held a general election on Dec. 23, 2007 to create a new elected government which would rule under a constitutional monarchy, and the decision will seal Shinawatra's fate.

Despite Thaksin's return, Thailand is still divided between his supporters and enemies.

For more information on Thaksin Shinawatra, visit:

1. Prime Minister Says No More
http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,190520,00.html

2. Kissing Without Politics
http://www.bangkokpost.com/topstories/topstories.php?id=126224

3. Thaksin Still Prominent Among Poor
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/asia-pacific/1108114.stm

4. Prime Minister Claims Lack of Evidence
http://edition.cnn.com/2007/WORLD/asiapcf/01/15/thaksin.interview/index.html

Rice Will Not Run

-U.S. Secretary of State will not run for vice president.

Condoleezza Rice has no plans to serve as vice president this year, despite rumors to the contrary.

Rice told reporters on Friday that she will not be Sen. John McCain's running mate for this election. With Rice out of the picture, the speculation about McCain asking her to be his running mate should cease.

"I have always said that the one thing I have not seen myself doing is running for elected office," she said.

This is not the first time Rice has denied plans to run for vice president. During Bush's reelection campaign, voters wondered whether she would be his running mate.

Rice told the press that her future plans may include a return to Stanford University in California, but for now, she will focus on her position as secretary of state.

For more information on Condoleezza Rice, visit the following:
1. Rice Meets Russert
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/
2. Rice Doesn't See Dream As Reality
http://www.breitbart.com/
3. McCain Must Find New Running Mate
http://www.reuters.com/article
4. Persuading Rice To Run
http://rice2008.moonfruit.com/

Xerox Politics May Be At Play

-Presidential hopeful Hillary Rodham Clinton has confronted Barack Obama about whether plagiarism was used during his campaign.

During a political debate on Thursday, Clinton confronted Obama about whether plagiarism has been used in his speeches. Clinton said his political message was "a change you can Xerox."

Despite Obama's current winning streak, the accusation has made voters question the validity of his campaign.

The March 4 primaries in Texas and Ohio are approaching, and the campaigning is getting rough for Clinton, who lags behind Obama. Clinton's advisers claim that she "needed to be more assertive in making him seem ill-prepared for the job," according to the International Herald Tribune.

Obama, who is one step ahead of Clinton in the race for voters, has denied using plagiarism.

"The notion that I plagiarized . . . is silly," Obama said.

If Clinton succeeds in convincing voters that Obama has not been honest during his speeches, it is possible he could lose the primaries on March 4.

For more information:
1. South Carolina Debate Turns Fierce
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/

2. Clinton Questions Obama's Integrity
www.iht.com/bin

3. Obama Prevails in Debate
www.news.theage.com.au/obama-escapes-clinton-debate-unscathed/

4. The Moment Is Clinton's Chance
http://www.theatlantic.com/

McCain Denies Affair

-Presidential candidate John McCain denies having an affair with a lobbyist.

Presidential candidate John McCain denied allegations about having an extramarital affair with a lobbyist during a press conference in Ohio today.

"At no time have I ever done anything that would betray the public trust," he said during the press conference.

The denial comes after an article was printed in the New York Times. The article was titled "For McCain, Self Confidence on Ethics Poses Its Own Risk." In the article, McCain is accused of having an improper relationship with Vicki Iseman, a lobbyist. The potential loss of votes could cost McCain the presidential nomination, political commentators argue.

McCain has already lost the support of some voters. He told onlookers at the press conference, however, that he is "confident we will get the nomination."

For more information, visit these related articles:
1. Denial of Affair
www.news.com.au/story/

2. Smear Campaign?
http://www.timesonline.co.uk/

3. Affair Is Possible
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/

4. McCain Supporters Doubt Allegations
http://www.azcentral.com/