THE CAPITOL STANDARD Week of March 12, 2007 Volume 1, Issue 28 CAPITOL HILL... EMANUEL, BECERRA, INTRODUCE DECEPTIVE PRACTICES AND VOTER INTIMIDATION PREVENTION ACT Reps. Rahm Emanuel (D-Ill.) and Xavier Becerra (D-Calif.) have introduced the Deceptive Practices and Voter Intimidation Prevention Act to prohibit and punish what the lawmakers call deceptive practices that aim to keep voters away from the polls during elections. “In November, the country voted for a change in Washington,” said Emanuel. “This legislation is just an example of how this new Congress is working to reform the way Washington does politics. This reform will put an end to campaign practices that disenfranchise thousands of American voters and will give citizens the right to cast a ballot free from intimidation and misinformation.” According to several non-partisan organizations, incidents of voter suppression are on the rise. In 2006, registered voters in Virginia received phone messages falsely warning them that the “Virginia Elections Commission” had determined that they were ineligible to vote, and over 14,000 Latino voters in California received letters asserting that it was illegal for immigrants to vote, say the lawmakers. The legislation would elevate deceptive practices in elections a felony and increase the penalty to up to $250,000 or five years imprisonment. Additionally it would require the justice department to provide voters with accurate election information when allegations of deceptive practices are confirmed, and obligates the U.S. Attorney General to report to Congress on the allegations of deceptive practices after each federal election. “Congress has a fiduciary duty to ensure every single American citizen can and does vote,” Becerra said. “No good comes from depressed turnout and that is the exact result of all the voter intimidation tactics that take place all across this country, from Connecticut to California and North Dakota to New Mexico.” THE CAPITOL STANDARD Week of Feb. 26, 2007 VOLUME 1, ISSUE 26 CAPITOL HILL… VELÁZQUEZ, SCHUMER INTRODUCE PUBLIC HOUSING EQUAL TREATMENT ACT OF 2007 New York Democrats Nydia Velázquez and Charles Schumer have introduced legislation both in the House and the Senate to help resolve what they say is the ongoing housing crisis in New York City. The legislation would increase funding for public housing. “Funding for our city’s public housing has slowed to a trickle under the Bush administration,” Velázquez said. “This has left NYCHA under-funded and thousands of our community’s neediest residents feeling the consequences.” Currently, 343 public housing developments operated by the New York City Housing Authority (NYCHA) have to share funds and resources that were originally intended for only 322 units. These 20 units fell through the cracks when financial and regulatory responsibility shifted to the federal Department of Housing and Urban Development – leaving both NYCHA and thousands of tenants to bear the consequences, the legislators say. Last year, NYCHA incurred a nearly $88 million deficit while being forced to make cutbacks of staff. At the same time, tenants remain at risk of living in deteriorating conditions while some are also struggling to meet rising rents. “For too long the Federal and State governments have turned their backs on the tenants of these 21 developments,” said Schumer. “These tenants should not live in fear for their future, which is why the Federal Government should step-in, as it has for NYCHA development across the city, and support affordable housing for our most vulnerable citizens.” Lawmakers claim the legislation clarifies which public housing developments should be included by HUD when determining how much money a public housing agency receives. Velásquez and Schumer say the bill also would introduce a steady funding stream into the 21 properties currently operating without one, allowing residents to feel safe in their homes, and improving the quality of life for tenants in all of the NYCHA public housing developments. This bill, they add would also ensure NYCHA’s community centers that provide job training and elderly/youth programs stay open, vital repairs are completed in a timely manner and that critical public housing is maintained in New York City for the long run. BACA INTRODUCES ANTI-GANG LEGISLATION Rep. Joe Baca (D-Calif.) has reiterated his call to combat violent crime, particularly gang violence, and has introduced two bills he says will help cut gang activity. “We are here … because our communities and our neighborhoods have been hit hard by violent crime. We have suffered. We have lost friends and neighbors to violence. And we are determined to put an end to violent crime. It is time to Stamp Out Gang Violence,” he said. Baca has introduced the Stamp Out Gang Violence Act (H.R. 1070), which would provide a funding source for the Gang Resistance Education and Training (GREAT) program through revenue raised by the sale of a new special-rate U.S. postage stamp. Consumers who wish to contribute to anti-gang programs could choose to purchase the stamp which could be used for first-class mail. It would be sold for 45 cents instead of the standard rate of 39 cents, with the additional revenue being allocated for the GREAT program. GREAT is an existing program administered by the U.S. Justice Department, which sends law enforcement officers into schools around the country to educate students about the dangers of gang activity and to give them the skills to resist gang recruitment. The second legislation is known as Mynisha’s Law (H.R. 1069), named in memory of Mynisha Crenshaw, a San Bernardino, Calif., girl who died in 1995 after being shot by gang members. Mynisha’s Law would allow the U.S. Attorney General to establish an interagency gang prevention task force consisting of representatives from the departments of Justice, Education, Labor, Health and Human Services, and Housing and Urban Development. This task force would create a comprehensive national gang prevention strategy, focusing on early childhood intervention, at-risk youth intervention, literacy, employment, and community policing. “Although San Bernardino and other parts of the Inland Empire have experienced some tragic episodes, we are not alone,” Baca said. “Gang violence and crime are national problems that require federal assistance. We must work together to make a difference both locally and nationally to make our communities safer for children and families.” Sen. Barbara Boxer (D-Calif.) has introduced Mynisha’s Law (S. 144) in the upper chamber. LAST WEEK… The Bush administration Feb. 22 announced it was relaxing new passport rules, exempting U.S. citizen children 15 years old and under from being required to present a passport when re-entering the country by land or sea. The Department of Homeland Security said U.S. minors would only need a certified copy of their birth certificate. “This is going to make it a lot easier to kids to cross the border without having to get passports and passcards,” said Homeland Security Secretary Michael Chertoff during a speech at the Detroit Economic Club, less than mile away from the U.S.-Canadian border. “By the way, it's specifically designed to make it cheaper for families.” Chertoff added that Canadian and U.S. citizens aged 16 to 19 traveling for school events will also be allowed to cross with just a birth certificate, provided they are accompanied by adults. The passport relaxation does not apply to minors traveling by air nor to Mexican citizen children entering the U.S.*** *** President Bush meets on Tuesday, Feb. 27 in the Oval Office with his counterpart from El Salvador, Elías Antonio Saca. It is expected that the Iraq war be a central part of the meeting, as El Salvador is the only Latin American country with troops remaining in Iraq. Saca is under enormous pressure in El Salvador to call his country's troops back, but he has said that he wants to help President Bush “stand up for democracy.” Saca's critics have accused him of supporting the president's Iraq strategy for the sole purpose of securing renewal of Temporary Protected Status for up to 500,000 Salvadoran nationals in the United States. The visit between the two presidents is widely seen as a White House show of support for Saca while he faces mounting criticism over his stance on Iraq. El Salvador currently has 380 soldiers serving in Iraq. “El Salvador is a close friend of the United States and a strong partner in the War on Terror and the international coalition supporting peace and freedom for the Iraqi people,” the White House said in a statement announcing Saca’s visit.*** *** The Senate Judiciary Committee this week holds a hearing on immigration reform legislation, with Commerce Secretary Carlos Gutiérrez and Homeland Security Secretary Michael Chertoff testifying. The Bush administration supports legislation that includes a guestworker program. Sens. Edward Kennedy and John McCain (R-Ariz.) are expected to introduce as earlier as this week bipartisan immigration legislation that also includes steps toward legalization of millions of undocumented immigrants living in the United States. *** 2008… The Republican National Committee distributed Spanish-language flyers on several Democratic Party presidential wannabes, including Senator Hillary Clinton. The RNC flyer criticizing the former first lady translated “political baggage” as” bagaje politico.” In the Spanish language, “bagaje” means someone who has “a great wealth of knowledge and extraordinary grasp of a particular issue.” ALSO… The League of United Latin American Citizens will honor President Bill Clinton, Secretary of Labor Elaine Chao, Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-Nev.) ¬and Rep. Hilda Solis (D-Calif.) at its 10th Annual National Legislative Awards Gala to be held on February 27 at the J.W. Marriott. The National Council of La Raza will honor Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.) and Rep. Luis Gutierrez (D-Ill.) at the 2007 NCLR Capital Awards gala March 6 at the National Building Museum, 401 F Street, N.W.. NCLR will also present the Public Service Award to His Eminence Roger Cardinal Mahony, Archbishop of Los Angeles. CLARIFICATION… While Rep. Silvestre Reyes (D-Texas) was quoted in a December Newsweek interview as supporting an increase in U.S. troops in Iraq, Reyes says his comments were taken out of context. THE CAPITOL STANDARD Week of Feb. 19, 2007 VOLUME 1, ISSUE 25 NCLR ISSUES VOTING REPORT “Substantial” confusion about the Hispanic electorate and a myth that all Latinos are immigrants causes political parties and their strategists to employ strategies and tactics that miss the opportunity to increase Latino voter participation, this according to a Feb. 16 study by the National Council of La Raza that was presented at a Latino voter forum sponsored by the Center for American Progress in Washington, D.C. “The Latino Electorate: Profile and Trends” finds that while Latino naturalized citizens show higher voter participation than their native-born counterparts, many strategists fail to concentrate efforts on promoting citizenship -- and this is partly attributable to the Latino immigrant “myth,” says the study’s co-author Clarissa Martínez de Castro, a policy analyst at NCLR. "There is that myth that all Latinos are immigrants and they are not a significant part of the political equation in this country, when the opposite is true," she said. “There is a lack of understanding out there about the community, and a lack of understanding of how you talk to Latinos about the issues, and all issues, not just immigration. There is an underinvestment of the community by the political parties. Candidates need to get a better grasp and become more adept at understanding the Latino voter.” The study also found that while a majority of Latinos vote for the Democratic Party, the percentage of Latinos voting for the Democratic candidate for president has decreased steadily since 1988, which shows that Hispanic voters have shown a willingness to vote "split ticket" and support candidates based on their records and positions, not party affiliation alone. SENATE CONFIRMS RODRIGUEZ TO EAC The U.S. Senate Feb. 15 confirmed Denver (Colo.) City Councilwoman Rosemary Rodríguez as a commissioner on the U.S. Election Assistance Commission (EAC), which was created in 2002 under the Help America Vote Act to serve as a resource and information center for federal elections procedures. “I have known Rosemary for many years. Her dedication to excellence is second to none,” said Sen. Ken Salazar (D-Colo.). “I know she will do her best to ensure all American citizens have an equal opportunity to make their voices heard in our election process. I am also confident that she will ensure that our elections are run fairly under the rule of law.” The confirmation, however, was not without controversy. The group People for the American Way, which has said that election reform is their key legislative priority this year, offered that the Senate committed a mistake by confirming Rodríguez and another nominee without debate and a recorded roll call vote. The other nominee, Caroline Hunter, was described as a “partisan political operative” with no experience in electoral administration. Hunter's immediate past position was deputy director of the White House Public Liaison Office. ”We are deeply disappointed that the Senate did not take to heart its responsibility to provide open, transparent oversight of the EAC through its confirmation process,” said PFAW president Ralph Neas. “Confirming these nominees under the cover of night sends exactly the wrong message to millions of Americans who are counting on Congress to improve our nation's election system. It's too late to get these confirmations right, but it is not too late to improve oversight of the EAC.” THE CAPITOL STANDARD Week of Feb. 12, 2007 VOLUME 1, ISSUE 24 CAPITOL HILL... BOXER, SOLIS INTRODUCE BILL TO PROTECT CALIFORNIA WILDERNESS California lawmakers Sen. Barbara Boxer and Rep. Hilda Solís have introduced the California Wild Heritage Act of 2007, legislation that would protect over 2.4 million acres of federal public lands in California. “I am excited to build on last year’s successes and continue efforts to preserve even more of California’s magnificent wild lands for future generations,” Boxer said. “These places are the natural treasure of California.” The California Wild Heritage Act protects these places by designating public lands owned by the American people as “wilderness” – the highest level of protection in federal law – and segments of California rivers as “wild and scenic.” These areas would remain open for recreational activities such as horseback riding, fishing, hunting, hiking, backpacking, rock climbing and canoeing. It would also protect vital watersheds in our national forests, which are a source of California’s drinking water supply. In addition, the bill would help protect vulnerable ecosystems and threatened species of plants and animals, such as salmon and trout. “As our nation continues to develop, it is critical that we preserve our natural and cultural heritage for future generations,” said Solís. “I am proud that this legislation will preserve wilderness and other green spaces, providing healthy refuges for families to enjoy the outdoors and exercise.” THE CAPITOL STANDARD Week of Feb. 5, 2007 Volume 1, Issue 23 CAPITOL HILL... MARTINEZ INTRODUCES TAX EQUITY AND AFFORDABILITY ACT Sen. Mel Martínez (R-Fla.) has introduced the Tax Equity and Affordability (TEA) Act 2007. The measure seeks to lower the cost and expand the availability of health insurance. It will establish a new tax credit for individuals and families without employer-based health insurance. “Health insurance should be affordable and accessible. There are more than 47 million Americans – including 4 million Floridians – who need, but are unable to purchase health insurance because of the cost,” said Martínez. “This proposal will make insurance more affordable for more people – including those who don’t have health insurance through an employer. The TEA Act promotes personal choice, ownership, and portability of health insurance, regardless of employment status.” The TEA act, by enacting tax credits, would ensure that individuals who purchase health insurance receive the same tax benefit as those who receive health insurance through an employer. A tax credit would immediately provide funds to lower-income families, making coverage more affordable. In addition, the TEA Act would cap the amount of tax-free compensation employees can receive in the form of health insurance. “This provides a more level playing field for taxpayers and their families who do not have access to employer-provided plans,” Martínez said. “These individuals deserve a health tax credit equal to the benefits enjoyed by workers whose employers provide health insurance. This act will go a long way toward insuring the more than 47 million Americans who are currently going without coverage.” SALAZAR LAUNCHES ‘FARM BILL UPDATE PAGE’/ CALLS FOR PUBLIC COMMENT ON FARM BILL PROPOSAL Sen. Ken Salazar (D-Colo.) announced the creation of his ‘Farm Bill Update Page’ and is asking for public comment on the Bush administration’s proposal and the farm bill in general. “What we do in the Nation’s capitol to champion the revitalization of the ‘Forgotten America’ is very important,” said Salazar. “The Farm Bill will set the national agriculture policy for the next five years, and the people who understand it the best – farmers, ranchers and those living in our rural communities – should have direct input on this law.” The bill is up for reauthorization this year. Salazar’s Farm Bill Update Page is located at his homepage (http://salazar.senate.gov/) and features an online form readers can complete to provide comment and feedback regarding the administration’s farm bill proposal and the farm bill in general. The page also includes a brief summary of the White House Farm Bill proposal, with links to a more detailed USDA summary. In addition, readers will be able to use this Farm Bill Update Page information to access information about the Senator’s most recent activities on the issue. “In order for me to best fight for the values and futures of the people of Colorado, I welcome the comments and thoughts on the Administration’s Farm Bill proposal, as well as any other input Coloradans may have on the reauthorization of the Farm Bill,” said Senator Salazar. As Congress works on the farm bill this year, Senator Salazar’s Farm Bill Update Page will be updated to provide farmers, ranchers, rural Coloradans and others with up-to-date information and insight. THE CAPITOL STANDARD Week of Jan. 22, 2007 VOLUME 1, ISSUE 22 CAPITOL HILL… RICHARDSON ANNOUNCES WHITE HOUSE RUN New Mexico Governor Bill Richardson threw his hat into the presidential ring, saying he is forming an exploratory committee that allows him to begin to raise money and put together a campaign organization. Richardson would be the nation’s first Hispanic president. “I am taking this step because we have to repair the damage that’s been done to our country over the last six years,” said Richardson, who is a former member of Congress and was U.N. ambassador and Energy secretary during the Clinton administration. “Our reputation in the world is diminished, our economy has languished, and civility and common decency in government has perished,” he said in a statement. Richardson will make a formal announcement of his presidential candidacy in March, after the end of New Mexico’s legislative session. Richardson, 59, is Mexican American. MARTINEZ ELECTED RNC CHAIRMAN During the Republican National Committee’s winter meeting last Friday in Washington, Florida Senator Mel Martínez was elected RNC chairman. Martínez will remain in the Senate as he assumes the duties of chief spokesperson and principal fundraiser for the party. “I’m truly humbled by the opportunity that you give me, and the responsibility that you place upon me,” he said. “I think we took a pretty good step (as a party) in making a Hispanic the general chairman.” Martínez echoed comments he had made last November when he was nominated to the post by President Bush, when he said that he would work to make the GOP more inclusive of the Hispanic community, the majority of whom had voted for Democratic candidates in last year’s congressional elections, in part because of what was perceived as the Republican Party’s anti-immigrant stance. Martínez has been very vocal in urging his Republican colleagues to not take a hardline stance on the issue. “We didn’t get (an immigration bill) done (last session), and I think that’s part of what the voters were dissatisfied with, and we as a party in charge could not come together on an issue that was that important.” Martínez’s nomination was not without controversy, with several conservative Republicans saying he was the wrong choice because of his stance on immigration. Martínez sponsored legislation that would create a path for legalization for millions of undocumented immigrants, and several conservatives say that position would be tantamount to rewarding illegal behavior. “My hope and my goal will be that we can rise above those divisions, that we can talk about the issues that unite us as a party and that even among those that may have a different point of view; this is not a party of bigotry, by the way. The Republican Party is not a party of bigotry. So, while there may be discordant voices on the issue of immigration, this party is not that kind of attitude or that point of view.” SOTU PREVIEW DELIVERED In the first-ever Spanish and English Democratic preview of a State of the Union, Sen. Ken Salazar (D-Colo.) said that President Bush’s upcoming SOTU speech must address a number of issues of concern to Latinos and the larger U.S. community, including Iraq, adding that the Congress will be more proactive on the issue than during the previous legislative session. “Given the view of the senior generals responsible for our Iraq policy, and the negative reaction this military escalation has received, I think it is important for both the House and the Senate to give the President’s plan (to increase U.S. troops) an up or down vote,” Salazar said. “For too long, the Republican Congress rubber-stamped this flawed Iraq policy. Those days have come to an end. Senators (Carl) Levin (D-Mich.) and (Chuck) Hagel (R-Neb.) have introduced a bipartisan resolution. In the coming weeks, we will have a vote.” Salazar also spoke of an issue that has lately received little or no attention in Washington: Latin America. “The Bush Administration’s negligence towards Latin America has let (Venezuelan president) Hugo Chávez fill the void the president has left in the region. Democrats are committed to a more positive reengagement with our fellow neighbors. We will do this by strengthening our cooperation on vital issues, such as trade, economic development, counter-narcotics efforts, immigration, and poverty reduction.” Salazar’s speech was delivered in the U.S. Capitol four days before President Bush’s address to the nation on Tuesday night. MENENDEZ RENEWS CALL FOR FULL IMPLEMENTATION OF 9/11 COMMISSION RECOMMENDATIONS Sen. Robert Menéndez (D-N.J.) Jan. 18 introduced a bill that aims to fully implement all 41 recommendations made by the 9/11 Commission. This measure is similar to one Menéndez offered during the previous Senate session and marks his first bill introduced in the 110th Congress. “I continue to believe the 9/11 Commission Report was a call to action for America,” Menéndez said. “The commission’s work cannot be left unfinished. We all have an obligation to the American public to protect them using the most efficient and effective security practices. The 9/11 Commission provided a clear blueprint for how best to keep our nation safe and secure —their advice must not go unheeded.” A key recommendation of the 9/11 Commission was that Homeland Security grants be allocated solely on the basis of risk, one of several recommendations that have not been implemented. A provision in the Menéndez legislation would require the Department of Homeland Security to award security grants strictly using a risk-based formula. To ensure implementation, the legislation contains a mechanism for federal agencies to report on their progress. Where recommendations have been enacted into law, this bill requires the relevant agency or agencies to certify they have completed the requirements of the Intelligence Reform and Terrorism Prevent Act of 2004 and the recommendations of the 9/11 Commission. SALAZAR VOTES FOR ETHICS REFORM, AMENDMENTS ADOPTED Sen. Ken Salazar (D-Colo.) Jan. 18 voted for the Senate ethics reform package, S. 1, which included several amendments he had supported. “This past November voters sent a clear message to Washington: clean up your act. With the passage of (the) ethics reform package we take the first step in showing the American people that their trust in us is not misplaced,” said Salazar. The senator offered two amendments that strengthened the original bill. His amendments would eliminate taxpayer-funded government pensions to members of Congress who are convicted of bribery and other white-collar crimes and force congressional committees to post transcripts of hearings within 14 days of the hearing. A third amendment to extend many of the new restrictions on Congress to the executive and judicial branches of government did not pass. “These amendments further strengthen the ethics reform bill. Eliminating pensions for Members of Congress who commit bribery and providing access to committee transcripts are simple, sensible policies. While they shouldn’t have been necessary in the first place, everyone will agree that we will serve our constituents better with them in place now.” DEMS, CHC TOUT RECENT VOTES HELP HISPANICS The new Democratic majority in Congress is moving in the right direction for the Latino community, said members of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus and House Democratic leaders at a Capitol Hill press conference Jan. 18. They pointed out several legislative developments of the 110th Congress, such as the first increase in the federal minimum wage in 10 years which analysts estimate would help several million Latino workers and the House passage of legislation to cut interest rates on certain college student loans. “The high cost of an education and the lack of adequate financial aid make obtaining a higher education unattainable for many of America’s working families, including Latinos,” said Rep. Hilda Solí¬s (D-Calif.), in a floor speech shortly before the vote. “Cutting the interest rate on subsidized student loans in half from 6.8% to 3.4% will make college more affordable for thousands of Latino students. A higher education should not be a privilege available to a select few, but a right available to all.” Added Rep. Xavier Becerra (D-Calif.), “House Speaker Nancy Pelosi promised a new direction for the country and she is fulfilling that promise. Becerra is a member of the House leadership as Assistant to the Speaker. SALAZAR INTRODUCES BILLS TO EASE U.S. RELIANCE ON FOREIGN OIL Sen. Ken Salazar (D-Colo.) has introduced and co-sponsored several bills to reduce U.S. dependence on foreign oil. Initiatives introduced by Salazar would close tax loopholes that encourage small businesses to buy larger vehicles that consume more fuel; provide grants to gas station owners who install alternative refueling systems; promote the development of renewable energies such as cellulosic ethanol; and increase vehicle efficiency by requiring automakers to upgrade their cars with flex-fuel technologies. “This country’s addiction to foreign oil puts our national security at risk,” said Salazar. “Just as the government defends our borders with advanced military technology and manpower, we must also protect our nation by breaking this addiction, which funds both sides of the war on terror. These bills will move us towards that goal. “These bills are merely a starting point,” he added. “These initiatives must be combined with the continuing entrepreneurial drive of the private sector to find sources and uses for renewable energy. They must also work in conjunction with an honest effort on behalf of the American people to conserve energy wherever possible.” COMMITTEE UPDATES… Rep. Henry Cuéllar (D-Texas) is selected to serve as Chairman of the Homeland Security Subcommittee on Emergency Communications, Preparedness & Response. LAST WEEK… *** Rep. Ileana Ros-Lehtinen (R-Fla.) Jan. 18 voted for passage of domestic energy legislation which takes away billions of dollars in oil company subsidies and redirects funds into finding alternative energy sources. Ros-Lehtinen was one of 36 Republicans to vote against oil companies. “Passage of this legislation is a step in the right direction to reducing our dependence on foreign oil by promoting energy efficiency and renewable energy resources. It is high time we undertake this effort.” she said. *** *** The National Council of La Raza announced Jan. 19 that it has received a $250,000 grant from the Department of Health and Human Services’ Office of Minority Health to develop a tool kit to assist emergency managers and relief agencies in serving immigrant communities in the event of a public health disaster. The announcement was made at a roundtable on the health status of Latinos in New Orleans at Tulane University’s School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine. *** *** Rep. Xavier Becerra (D-Calif.) reintroduced Jan. 17 legislation that would establish a commission to explore the possibility of creating a national museum in Washington, D.C., focused on the artistic, cultural, and historical contributions of U.S. Latinos. *** *** Speaker Nancy Pelosi of California announces plans to create a Select Committee on Energy Independence and Global Warming. The Select Committee will not have legislative jurisdiction. *** 2008… Rep. Tom Tancredo (R-Colo.) announces that Shelly Uscinski, a former Christian Coalition leader in New Hampshire, will lead his campaign in the state. Tancredo recently announced his intentions to run for president. Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton (D-N.Y.) announces the formation of a presidential exploratory committee. This is the first time in U.S. history that a former first lady announces plans to run for president. Sen. Barack Obama (D-Ill.), who recently announced the formation of a presidential exploratory committee, hires political consultant Matt Rodríguez to be his campaign manager in New Hampshire. Rodríguez had worked on former Rep. Richard Gephardt’s 2004 campaign and served as former Sen. Bill Bradley’s deputy campaign manager in 2000. IN THE HOPPER… Rep. Dana Rohrabacher (R-Calif.) introduces H.R. 492 to grant congressional voting rights to District of Columbia residents. Sen. Christopher Dodd (D-Conn.) introduces S. 308 to prohibit an escalation in U.S. military forces in Iraq without prior authorization by Congress. Reps. Henry Cuéllar and Silvestre Reyes of Texas introduce H.R. 502 to amend the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 to authorize assistance to improve security and promote economic development in Mexico. Rep. Robert Brady (D-Penn.) introduces H.R. 513 to amend the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act to enhance the protection of credit ratings of active duty military personnel. Rep. Hilda Solis (D-Calif.) introduces H.R. 542 to require the Department of Veterans Affairs to provide mental health services in languages other than English, as needed, for veterans with limited English proficiency. Sens. John McCain (R-Ariz.) and Ken Salazar (D-Colo.) introduce S. 327 to authorize the Secretary of the Interior to conduct a special resource study of sites associated with the life of César Chávez and the farm labor movement. THE CAPITOL STANDARD Week of Jan. 15, 2007 VOLUME 1, ISSUE 21 CAPITOL HILL… LATINO MEMBERS OF CONGRESS RESPOND TO IRAQ TROOP PLAN Hispanic members of Congress largely follow party lines in reacting to President Bush’s plan to send an additional 21,500 U.S. troops to Iraq, with Democrats against it, and Republicans saying they are willing to give the president a chance to prove it could help stem the tide of violence in Iraq. “I support the comprehensive approach laid out by President Bush. It has a reasonable chance to achieve the success we very much need in Iraq. And there is no alternative but success,” said Sen. Mel Martínez (R-Fla.), adding that an immediate withdrawal of U.S. troops would only make matters worse. “There is no doubt that the road ahead will continue to be difficult; Americans continue to make great sacrifices in the service of our country. But the price of failure in Iraq is what we have to weigh everything against. It would be a terrible mistake for our country and for the greater security in the Middle East to leave a vacuum for terrorism to fester in Iraq.” Democrats disagreed, saying that the overwhelming majority of the U.S. public wants a change in Iraq, and handed the Democrats their first congressional majority since 1993 because of their displeasure with the current strategy. “That is what I am hearing from my constituents; that they are very worried and concerned about what is going on in Iraq and they want us to leave,” said Rep. Linda Sánchez (D-Calif.). “The current policy is not working.” Fellow Californian Grace Napolitano, a former Congressional Hispanic Caucus chair, added that the new Democratic majority will be working on restoring cuts to domestic programs hit hard by the administration funneling money to the war in Iraq. “We want to tell the president to pay attention to us here in the United States and to the needs of his own people,” she said. SENATE SET TO VOTE ON MINIMUM WAGE The U.S. Senate is poised to take up legislation that would increase the federal minimum wage from $5.15 an hour to $7.25 an hour over the next 26 months, the first boost in ten years. House members voted 315 to 116, with 80 Republicans joining all Democrats to vote for passage. “This increase to the minimum wage is long overdue,” said Rep. Ed Pastor (D-Ariz.), chair of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus labor taskforce. “I'm glad that we will finally be able to provide a more decent wage to our working people.” Rep. Devin Nunes (R-Calif.) was the only Hispanic member who voted against it. The Senate version would likely include some tax credits for small businesses supported by President Bush and Republican legislators. “Hispanics are among the hardest-working Americans. Unfortunately, Hispanic workers are three times as likely as their white counterparts to be working full-time yet still living in poverty,” commented Janet Murguía, president of the National Council of La Raza. “A minimum wage increase to $7.25 an hour would improve the economic conditions of more than 1.3 million Latino workers and give them a better chance to provide for their families.” MENENDEZ PLACES SECOND HOLD ON HOAGLAND NOMINATION Sen. Robert Menéndez (D-N.J.), a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, has placed a second hold on the nomination of Richard Hoagland to be U.S. Ambassador to Armenia. Menéndez first placed a hold on Hoagland’s nomination back in September. “By all accounts, Ambassador Hoagland is a distinguished career Foreign Service Officer who has served America with distinction and honor during his time at the State Department,” Menéndez said. “However, given the circumstances and controversy surrounding Mr. Hoagland's nomination, I believe that the best way to move forward would be for the president to nominate a new candidate for this ambassadorship.” Menéndez and Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-Nev.) last month wrote to Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice urging her to withdraw the nomination due in part to Hoagland’s refusal to call the torture and murder of 1.5 million Armenians during World War I genocide. “I also believe that the State Department and the Bush administration are just flat-out wrong in their refusal to recognize the Armenian genocide. It is well past time for American diplomacy to drop the euphemisms, the wink-wink, nod-nod brand of foreign policy that overlooks heinous atrocities committed around the world,” Menéndez added. “If there is any sincerity behind the Bush administration’s rhetoric about ‘liberty on the march’ – if ‘never again’ is to be more than a bumper sticker slogan – then American diplomacy should consist of nothing less than unvarnished honesty with our friends and enemies alike. And we must call genocide by its name.” CUELLAR APPOINTED TO LEADERSHIP TEAM Rep. Henry Cuéllar (D-Texas) has been selected by House Majority Whip James Clyburn of South Carolina to serve on his Whip Team for the 110th Congress. As a Senior Whip, Cuéllar will work with Clyburn to gather support for Democratic legislation and initiatives. “I’m deeply honored to have been selected by the House leadership for this position,” said Cuéllar. “I look forward to bringing change to Washington and advancing legislation that meets the needs of working families. As a Senior Whip, I will continue fighting for greater access to health care and education, for economic development, and for increasing our national security.” Senior whips also serve on policy-oriented taskforces created and are responsible for developing strategies to ensure legislative success, in addition to being asked to plan strategically about how issues impact certain members and caucus groups. CHC MEMBERS CONTINUE TO MULL CAUCUS DEPARTURE The 110th Congress convened with a pending controversy involving the Congressional Hispanic Caucus, with some female members saying they are still considering leaving the group. During the meeting shortly after the congressional elections that was convened to elect a new CHC chair, four members abstained -- Linda Sánchez and her California colleagues Hilda Solís and Lucille Roybal-Allard, and Nydia Velázquez of New York. Loretta Sánchez of California voted no. They walked out, saying that the selection of Rep. Joe Baca (D-Calif.) would be detrimental to the group, since they considered him “disrespectful” of women’s issues, offering as an example his alleged characterization of one of the legislators as a member of the world’s oldest profession, an allegation Baca vehemently denies. They also say his abrasive style would not be effective with the new Democratic leadership, in particular with House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.), the first-ever female speaker. Calling the CHC “an old boy’s network,” several female legislators say they are disappointed in his selection. “I just don’t have any confidence in his leadership,” said one member. “He is not a consensus builder, and he doesn’t take us seriously. We may still go off on our own.” Another legislator who supports Baca scoffed at the idea, telling The Capitol Standard, “Oh, yeah? Where the hell are they going to go? What are they going to do for funding? What are they going to do for office space? (Congressman Joe Baca) denies that he doesn’t pay attention to them and there is nothing that tells me otherwise. He even appointed one of the legislators (Linda Sánchez) to a task force. Does that sound like someone who wants to push people aside? This is so ridiculous and doesn’t help us as a group get our voice heard (with the new Democratic leadership in the House).” ORTIZ INTRODUCES BILL TO HELP PREVENT SUICIDE AMONG VETERANS Rep. Solomon Ortiz (D-Texas) has co-sponsored legislation which would direct the Department of Veterans Affairs to develop and implement a comprehensive program to regularly screen and monitor all veterans for risk factors for suicide in the department’s system. “The operations tempo for our armed forces is proceeding at a very rapid pace and we are returning veterans to their homes and communities every day, some before they may be emotionally prepared to return to their previous life,” said Ortiz. According to the congressman, an estimated 1,000 veterans receiving care from the Department of Veterans Affairs commit suicide each year, making suicide rates among U.S. veterans the highest they have been in the past decade. “With more and more veterans returning home from combat each day, it is our moral obligation to ensure that adequate mental health care is available for all veterans that need it,” added Ortiz. This legislation would direct the Department of Veterans Affairs to develop a comprehensive program to regularly screen and monitor all veterans for risk factors of suicide and would set up a tracking and counseling referral system to ensure all veterans found to be a suicide risk receive the appropriate help. It would also develop a national campaign to promote veterans mental health. “Our veterans have given us their all,” Ortiz said. “We must do all we can humanly do to give them what they need to readjust to the normal pace of their lives. We ask soldiers to do awfully difficult things when they are at war... things that frequently eat at their psyches. Let us help them find some manner of inner peace.” The bill has 90 co-sponsors. COMMITTEE UPDATES… Rep. Solomon Ortiz (D-Texas) is named chairman of the Readiness and Military Construction Subcommittee of the Armed Services Committee. Rep. José Serrano (D-N.Y.) becomes the chair of the newly created Financial Services Subcommittee of the Appropriations Committee. 2008… Luis Navarro becomes the campaign manager of presidential candidate Sen. Joe Biden (D-Del.). Navarro most recently was the executive director of the Florida Democratic Party. ON THE MOVE… Moses Mercado, ex- deputy executive director of the Democratic National Committee, joins Ogilvy Government Relations. OGR is the new name for the former Republican lobbying firm, the Federalist Group. THE CAPITOL STANDARD Dec. 4, 2006 VOLUME 1, ISSUE 19 CAPITOL HILL… REYES BECOMES FIRST LATINO TO CHAIR HOUSE INTEL PANEL House Speaker-elect Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) named Rep. Silvestre Reyes (D-Texas) to chair the House Intelligence Committee when the 110th Congress convenes on Jan. 3. Reyes is a Vietnam veteran and a former sector chief of the U.S. Border Patrol. “Congressman Reyes has impeccable national security credentials. He has served our country as a soldier in combat, a senior law enforcement officer on our southern border, and in Congress as a member of the Select Intelligence, Armed Services, and Veterans Affairs Committees. He understands how our troops rely on intelligence to do their jobs and to keep them safe and how policymakers need reliable and timely intelligence to make decisions that will advance our interests worldwide,” Pelosi said. “When tough questions are required, whether they relate to intelligence shortcomings before the 9/11 attacks or the war in Iraq, or to the quality of intelligence on Iran or North Korea, he does not hesitate to ask them.” Reyes was third on the seniority list, with Pelosi passing over ranking member and fellow Californian Jane Harman and Floridian Alcee Hastings. Pelosi has said that seniority will not be the only factor in determining committee chairmanships. “I am honored by the serious responsibility that has been placed on my shoulders,” said Reyes, who becomes the first Hispanic to ever chair the committee. “The Intelligence Committee oversees many activities that play a critical role in safeguarding our nation, and will address many of the challenges we are facing in Iraq and Afghanistan. It is important for the committee to ask the tough questions and enact strong policies to keep us safe while protecting the constitutionally guaranteed rights of Americans.” Added House colleague Grace Napolitano (D-Calif.), chair of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus, “We are very proud of Congressman Reyes and his appointment as Chair of the Intelligence Committee. His real life experience in law enforcement and border security as well as his experience on the Intelligence Committee make him an excellent choice to chair this critical committee dealing with America’s security.” The appointment was also applauded by Latino groups, including the National Council of La Raza, which called it “historic.” Reyes will also continue to serve on the Armed Services and Veterans Affairs committees. CUELLAR CALLS ON CONGRESS, AG TO ACT ON BORDER VIOLENCE Rep. Henry Cuéllar (D-Texas) Nov. 30 called on members of Congress and Attorney General Alberto Gonzáles to respond to the increase in violent crime along the United States-Mexico border. In letters addressed to both the congressional leadership and Attorney General Gonzáles, Cuéllar requested that they travel to the Laredo area to “see first hand” the conditions along the border. Cuéllar has also requested that they meet to discuss the deployment of additional resources along crime hot spots on the border and increased assistance to Mexican law enforcement. Earlier this week, U.S. citizens were kidnapped from a hunting lodge located close to the U.S. border. This year a firefight between Mexican authorities and drug cartel members threatened to spill across one of bridges that connects Laredo to Nuevo Laredo and required the deployment of Webb County Sheriffs deputies and the Laredo Police to the bridge. “We must come together to give our law enforcement agencies the resources they need to fight the increasing levels of crime along the border,” said Cuéllar. “I strongly believe that we must work with the Mexican government and provide them the assistance they need to be effective partners in securing the border region. Mexico, our southern neighbor and one of our largest trading and cultural partners, receives significantly less foreign aid from the United States than some of our other allies. In fiscal year 2006, Mexico received $69 million in aid, while Colombia received $561 million and Bolivia received $132 million. I support additional assistance to Mexico because a strong, secure, and stable Mexico will help keep our borders safe,” he added. COMMERCE SECRETARY GUTIERREZ ADDRESSES N. KOREA BAN In response to North Korea’s testing of a nuclear device in October, the United States has announced a ban on the sale of luxury items to the country as part of U.N. Security Council Resolution 1718. The ban will be implemented by the Commerce Department’s Bureau of Industry and Security. Regulations to implement the luxury goods ban and other steps required by UNSCR 1718 will be published in the Federal Register. “While North Korea’s people starve and suffer, there is simply no excuse for the regime to be splurging on cognac and cigars,” said Commerce Secretary Carlos Gutiérrez. “We will ban the export of these and other luxury goods that are purchased for no other reason than to benefit North Korea’s governing elite. “We are not imposing a full trade embargo, or restricting essential items like food and medicine that benefit the people of North Korea. These measures are carefully considered and carefully targeted.” The Commerce Department already restricts exports to North Korea of dual-use items controlled for non-proliferation, national security, and other reasons. AG GONZALES HOSTS EDUCATIONAL EVENT AS PART OF NATIONAL METHAMPHETAMINE AWARENESS DAY Attorney General Alberto Gonzáles Nov. 30 participated in an educational event at George Washington University as part of National Methamphetamine Awareness Day, the largest single-day national education effort warning against the dangers of meth abuse. “While the damaging effects of methamphetamine abuse are often clearly displayed on the faces of its victims, it is the wake of destruction meth leaves on families, communities and the environment that makes this drug so devastating to society,” said Gonzáles. “National Methamphetamine Awareness Day is an important opportunity to raise awareness about the dangers of meth abuse and reduce demand for this very addictive and destructive drug.” Over the past five years, the Justice Department and other law enforcement have made significant progress combating the supply of methamphetamine by reducing the number of small meth labs in the county. However, meth use continues to be a problem. According to the 2005 National Survey on Drug Use and Health, the latest year full statistics are available, individuals in the 18-25 age group are the most likely to be using meth. Additionally, it is estimated that more than 10 million people have abused meth, with approximately 512,000 users in 2005. Gonzáles was joined by a panel of experts, including Dr. H. Westley Clark, Director of the Center for Substance Abuse Treatment for the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and Virginia state Attorney General Robert McDonnell. President Bush Nov. 27 issued a proclamation declaring Nov. 30 to be National Methamphetamine Awareness Day as part of a nationwide effort to further educate the public about the effects of methamphetamine abuse on families and communities. The Justice Department coordinated over 100 events across the country by working with partners at the federal, state and local level, in the government, private and non-profit sectors. SOLIS, BURTON INTRODUCE RESOLUTION CONDEMNING GUATEMALAN MURDERS Reps. Hilda Solís (D-Calif.) and Dan Burton (R-Ind.) Nov. 16 introduced H. Res. 1081 to address the more than 2,000 women and girls who have been killed in Guatemala since 2001. Very few perpetrators have been tried. “The victims’ families deserve answers and honesty from the Guatemalan government and have been ignored and even intimidated in their search for justice,” said Solís. “The brutality and frequency of killings has only increased. It is clear that international pressure must be brought to bear on Guatemalan authorities to end the unchecked violence and killings of women.” H.Res. 1081 would condemn the murders and expresses condolences and support to families. Specifically, the resolution encourages the Guatemalan government to recognize domestic violence as a crime and to promptly investigate the killings and prosecute those responsible. It also ensures adequate resources for police and prosecutors to investigate the murders thoroughly and urges the U.S. Ambassador to Guatemala to meet with the families of the victims. Finally, it recommends that the U.S. Secretary of State develop a comprehensive plan to address and combat the growing problem of violence against women in Latin America. The resolution has been referred to the House International Relations Committee for consideration. It would have to be reintroduced in the 110th Congress if it is not voted on during the current lame duck session. IN OTHER NEWS… Commerce Secretary Carlos Gutiérrez announced Nov. 20 that the first Americas Competitiveness Forum will be held June 11-13, 2007, in Atlanta. Government officials from each of the hemisphere’s 33 countries, with the exception of Cuba, are invited to the forum to discuss how best to enhance the region’s ability to compete more successfully in the global marketplace. “The Americas Competitiveness Forum is an excellent opportunity to work on policies and strategies that attract investment and promote free enterprise throughout the region at a time when we are facing ever-growing competition from Asia and elsewhere,” said Gutiérrez. LAST WEEK… *** Rep. José Serrano (D-N.Y.) was honored Nov. 30 at the 2006 Premios Latinos along with multiple Latino artists, musicians and other community leaders, for his service to the Hispanic community in New York and nationwide. *** *** Incoming Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-Nev.) said comprehensive immigration reform will be a top priority when the 110th Congress convenes on Jan. 4. “As the Democratic leader I have the opportunity to offer the first 10 bills, and one of them will be comprehensive immigration reform,” he said. “I will introduce that the first day we are in session.” Reid added that some had criticized him for “coming out early in favor of immigration reform,” but that the results of the Nov. 7 congressional elections justify his position. “Latinos saw through the Republican hypocrisy of criminalizing undocumented immigrants and of the president saying he wasn’t for a border wall and going out and signing it. The Hispanic voters saw right through that and voted in overwhelming numbers for the Democrats and for those who support immigration reform.” *** *** The United States and Colombia signed a free trade agreement Nov. 22, the first step toward its consideration in the U.S. Congress. Commerce Secretary Carlos Gutiérrez has been promoting trade pacts as economic opportunities for Latino-owned business. “Trade agreements with Latin America would be great for Hispanic entrepreneurs, who speak the language and have contacts and can export.” However, incoming Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid, who says he is “not a big fan” of trade agreements, is not as optimistic. “(Trade agreements) have not been good for the American people and certainly haven’t been good for the countries that are signatories. I don’t think NAFTA has helped the people of Mexico. It certainly hasn’t helped our country.” *** THE CAPITOL STANDARD Nov. 20, 2006 VOLUME 1, ISSUE 18 ELECTION FALLOUT... ***The New Mexico election canvassing board for the 1st congressional district is expected Monday Nov. 20 to officially certify and declare Republican congresswoman Heather Wilson the winner for a fifth term in Congress, narrowly defeating state Attorney General Patricia Madrid, a Democrat, after ballot counting that lasted 10 days after the Nov. 7 congressional election. Wilson is shown with 105,916 votes, compared to 105,037 for Madrid. Analysts say that while Wilson, an Air Force Academy graduate, faced voter distaste for President Bush and the war in Iraq, Madrid was believed to have not energized voters and performed poorly in a candidate debate days before the election. *** CAPITOL HILL… ELECTION OF BACA AS CHC CHAIR CAUSES STIR Five of the six Latina Democrats in the U.S. Congress abstained or voted against the election of California Democrat Joe Baca to be the Congressional Hispanic Caucus chair in the 110th Congress, which convenes January 3. Four members abstained -- Linda Sánchez and her California colleagues Hilda Solí¬s and Lucille Roybal-Allard, and Nydia Velázquez of New York. Loretta Sánchez of California voted no. The members walked out of the Nov. 16 meeting after what was described as a “heated argument” over Baca’s selection that turned “nasty” and “personal”. Sources familiar with the closed-door meeting said the female legislators consider Baca “disrespectful” of women’s issues, adding that he once said one of the Latina legislators was also a member of the world’s oldest profession. “There is a problem here and it is a serious one,” said an aide, adding, “The Latina legislators are not on equal footing with the men. (The women) are not taken seriously and are not respected. The old boy’s network tries to control everything. It’s discriminatory and sad.” They also consider his chairmanship to be detrimental in the CHC’s relationship with the new House leadership, including Speaker-elect Nancy Pelosi. “He yelled at her on the House floor one time over a committee assignment, and she’s not about to forget that,” said a leadership aide. During the CHC chairmanship meeting, the faction opposing Baca unsuccessfully sought to have a vote on whether seniority should also play a factor in Caucus chair elections. That motion was tabled by a vote of 11 to 10, with CHC outgoing chair Grace Napolitano apparently casting the deciding vote. Baca’s office did not directly respond to the allegations, offering in a statement that he was looking forward to leading the group and was enthusiastic about working with every one of the members and the different task forces. The CHC has a good group that reflects the diversity of background and interests of its members, said an email sent by his spokesperson Michael Levin. Baca was elected CHC chair with the votes of all the male members and only one female “yea,” that of fellow Californian Napolitano, who is giving up the post because she cannot serve consecutive two-year terms. Ironically, Baca said that he plans to create a Latina task force to “examine the unique needs of women in our community.” Not surprisingly, his critics called that “window dressing.” The female legislators are allegedly entertaining thoughts of leaving the CHC altogether. MARTINEZ POISED TO ASSUME RNC LEADERSHIP POST Members of the Republican National Committee are expected to formally approve in January President Bush’s recommendation that Sen. Mel Martínez of Florida take over as RNC general chairman. Martínez, who would keep his seat in the Senate, would serve as chief spokesperson and principal fundraiser. The committee’s day-to-day operations would be handled by its current general counsel, Mike Duncan. The two men would share duties held by current chair Kenneth Mehlman, who resigned effective at the end of the year. Martínez’s selection comes after the president’s self-described Republican “thumping” in the Nov. 7 congressional election, which saw a drop in Hispanic support for Republican candidates. “We went down at least 10 percentage points in Latino voter support,” said Rep. Ileana Ros-Lehtinen (R-Fla.) Among his duties, Martínez will work on Hispanic voter outreach. “I hope to bring to Hispanics across the country the message that the Republican Party is interested in you and wants you in the party.” LEADERSHIP NEWS… Senate Sen. Ken Salazar (D-Colo.) joins the Finance Committee. He already sits on the Agriculture, Energy, Ethics and Aging Committees. Sen. Robert Menéndez (D-N.J.) joins the Foreign Relations Committee. He will continue on the Banking, Budget and Energy Committees. House Rep. Nydia Velázquez (D-N.Y.) becomes the first-ever Puerto Rican and Latina to chair the Small Business Committee in the 110th Congress. IN OTHER NEWS… *** Commerce Secretary Carlos Gutiérrez led a delegation representing 25 U.S. businesses to China November 13-16, and discussed with senior Chinese officials ways to resolve key bilateral trade issues, such as commercial piracy and counterfeiting. Gutiérrez, who heads the Joint Committee on Commerce and Trade (JCCT), a key U.S.-Chinese bilateral trade forum, delivered remarks at an Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) event in Beijing hosted by the United States. *** *** Sen. Mel Martínez (R-Fla.) called the Nov. 15 Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee hearing to review the results from the President’s Task Force on Puerto Rico’s status, “an opportunity to understand and help advance Puerto Rico’s future.” Martínez said, “When considering Puerto Rico’s status, it is clear that we have been left in an untenable circumstance regarding what the future will hold for the people of Puerto Rico. He added, “I believe the democratic will of the Puerto Rican people is paramount for the future status of the territory. The process should begin with an expression from the people of Puerto Rico on whether to maintain current territorial status or establish a permanent non-territorial status with regard to the United States.” *** *** The National Hispanic Caucus of State Legislators presented its Leadership Award to Maryland Delegate Ana Sol Gutiérrez, the state’s only Latina and Salvadoran-American legislator. New York state Democratic Assemblyman and NHCSL President Félix Ortiz said, “Delegate Sol Gutiérrez has consistently demonstrated a unique commitment to serve her community, in particular to ensure that our young people have the opportunity to have access to quality education.” *** *** The incoming Senate leadership says it is committed to taking up comprehensive immigration reform and other issues of interest to the Hispanic community when the 110th Congress convenes in January. “The Democratic Commitment to the Latino Community (which was released in the summer) includes issues such as immigration, a raise in the minimum wage, making college more affordable and increasing access to healthcare for Latinos,” said Federico de Jesús, spokesperson for Senate Majority Leader-elect Harry Reid (D-Nev.). “That hasn’t changed, and we intend to work to accomplish it. There should be no concern that it won’t happen.” The “concern” de Jesús was referring to largely focused on complaints from immigration activists that House Speaker-elect Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) did not include immigration reform in the “6 for ‘06” list of priorities for the 110th Congress that she spoke about the day following the election. Aides later said Pelosi was “most definitely” focused on immigration reform, and had listed issues that would be easier to pass, such as a raise in minimum wage. *** LAST WEEK… John Trasviña was elected President and General Counsel of the Mexican American Legal Defense and Educational Fund, based in Los Angeles. Hector Barreto, national chairman of the Washington, D.C.-based Latino Coalition and former administrator of the U.S. Small Business Administration was honored by the Mexican government when he received the Order of the Aztec Eagle, the highest Mexican recognition presented to non-Mexican citizens who help to foster closer relationships with Mexico in their countries. Forty ACORN members from around the country, including president Maude Hurd joined with Senators Nov. 16 to celebrate state minimum wage ballot initiative victories, and asked the incoming Congress to make increasing the federal minimum wage its top priority when it convenes in January. Colombian President Alvaro Uribe and Hernando De Soto, Peru’s special trade envoy, visited Bush administration officials and members of Congress to lobby for approval of bilateral free-trade pacts. While the Bush administration has lauded the trade deals, some key Democrats, including Rep. Charles Rangel (D-N.Y.), who is poised to become the next chairman of the House Ways and Means Committee, have expressed opposition to the trade agreements due to what they perceive as lax labor regulations. ALSO… In a visit the day after the Nov. 7 congressional elections, Mexico’s President-elect Felipe Calderón met with President Bush to talk about a number of bilateral issues, including trade and immigration. At a press conference after the Oval Office meeting, Calderón said that he was “hopeful” that the new Democratic leadership in Congress means a greater chance for comprehensive immigration reform to pass. IN THE HOPPER… S. 4046, introduced by Sens. Susan Collins (R-Maine) and Ken Salazar (D-Colo.) to extend oversight and accountability related to United States reconstruction funds and efforts in Iraq by extending the termination date of the Office of the Special Inspector General for Iraq Reconstruction. S. 4049 introduced by Sen. Russ Feingold (D-Wis.) to provide for the redeployment of United States forces from Iraq by July 1, 2007. THE CAPITOL STANDARD Nov. 8, 2006 VOLUME 1, ISSUE 17 Special Election Coverage CAPITOL HILL… All Members of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus Up for Re-election Will Return to Office. Joining them from: New Jersey: Democrat Albio Sires beats out Republican John Guarini to fill seat left vacant by newly elected U.S. Sen. Robert Menéndez. Still a Toss Up: New Mexico State Attorney General Patricia Madrid (D) v. Rep. Heather Wilson (R) KEY DEVELOPMENTS… Rep. Nancy Pelosi of California is poised to become the first female Speaker of the House in U.S. history…Defense Secretary Donald Rumsfeld resigns…Sen. George Allen of Virgina conceded Democrat Jim Webb, giving Democrats the majority in the Senate… KEY UPSETS… Senate Sen. Rick Santorum (R) falls to Democrat Robert Casey Jr. in Pennsylvania. Sen. Mike DeWine (R) of Ohio is defeated by Democrat Sherrod Brown. Connecticut Sen. Joe Lieberman retains his seat…but as an Independent. Democrat Sheldon Whitehouse defeats Sen. Lincoln Chafee of Rhode Island. House Rep. John Hostettler of Indiana is replaced by Democrat Brad Ellsworth. Joe Donnelly defeats Republican Chris Chocola in Indiana. Democrat Joe Sestack bests Rep. Curt Weldon of Pennsylvania. Rep. Clay Shaw (R) loses to Democrat Ron Klein in Florida. Rep. Ben Cardin (D-Md.) beats out Republican Lt. Gov. Michael Steele for the Maryland senate seat vacated by retiring Democrat Paul Sarbanes. ELECTION FALLOUT… *** New Jersey Senator Robert Menéndez (D) this week became the state’s first-ever Hispanic to be elected to the U.S. Senate, defeating Republican state Senator Tom Kean, Jr., 53 percent to 45 percent. While Menéndez was officially the incumbent, he was appointed in January to the Senate by Gov. Jon Corzine to fill the remaining year of his Senate tenure. “Only in America, but especially in New Jersey, can the son of a carpenter and a seamstress who grew up in a tenement can become one of the voices that will fight for you in the Senate,” Menéndez said during a victory rally in the state. *** *** As ranking member of the House Small Business Committee, New York Democrat Nydia Velázquez is poised to become the first-ever Latina to chair the powerful committee. Since first arriving in Congress in 1993, the Puerto Rico native has spent most of her congressional tenure focused on small business issues. Another Hispanic member of Congress, Silvestre Reyes (D-Texas), is vying to chair the House Intelligence Committee, although he is third on the seniority list. Based on their current committee rankings, several other Latino House legislators could become subcommittee chairs. They are: Solomón Ortiz of the Armed Services Subcommittee on Readiness; Reyes of the Armed Services Subcommittee on Strategic Forces; Hilda Solís of the Energy & Commerce Subcommittee on Environment & Hazardous Materials; Luis Gutiérrez of the Financial Services Subcommittee on Oversight & Investigations; Loretta Sánchez of the Homeland Security Subcommittee on Economic Security, Infrastructure Protection & Cybersecurity; Grace Napolitano, of the International Relations Subcommittee on the Western Hemisphere, Raúl Grijalva, of the Energy & Mineral Resources Subcommittee; and Grace Napolitano of the Energy & Mineral Resources Subcommittee on Water & Power. *** *** Republican legislator Henry Bonilla of Texas is headed for a runoff with former Congressional Hispanic Caucus chair, Democrat Ciro Rodríguez, after failing to obtain the necessary 50 percent of votes to represent District 23 in the U.S. House of Representatives. Bonilla, who was running against Rodríguez and six other Democrats, obtained just 48 percent, while Rodríguez received 20 percent. They face a December runoff. Of the entire Texas congressional delegation -- the second-largest in the U.S. Congress -- the Bonilla/Rodríguez race is the only one that remains unresolved. *** THE CAPITOL STANDARD October 30, 2006 VOLUME 1, ISSUE 16 CAPITOL HILL… BORDER FENCE LAW DRAWS CRITICISM FROM LAWMAKERS, OAS Mirroring what many Hispanic members of Congress said, Rep. Silvestre Reyes (D-Texas) criticized the recently signed Secure Border Act, which authorizes 700 miles of new fencing along the 2,000-long U.S.-Mexico border. Reyes, a former Border Patrol chief, said the fence would do nothing to stop illegal immigration or help with national security, and that it was done purely for political reasons. “The bill the president signed today represents the worst in election year politics - it is an empty gesture for the sole purpose of sending a false message about the security of our nation. The administration and the Republican leadership are trying to provide a false sense of security with a press event touting a Band-Aid approach,” adding that what was really needed was comprehensive immigration reform. “The message from those who work on the border every day is that we don’t need 700 miles of new fence. We need a comprehensive plan that addresses the three main priorities of the Border Patrol: manpower, technology, and infrastructure. (This) is a 700-mile fence along a 2,000 mile border. This fence doesn’t come close to solving our problem.” The Organization of American States also issued a joint declaration expressing concern. “The issue of international migration and development should be addressed by taking its multiple dimensions into account in order to maximize its benefits and reduce its negative effects to a minimum, within a framework of respect for human rights,” the statement read. “We strongly urge the United States government to reconsider the construction of a wall that divides our America.” SOLIS CHALLENGES VA PROGRESS ON ASSISTING LIMITED-ENGLISH PROFICIENT VETERANS Rep. Hilda Solís (D-Calif.) Oct. 24 expressed her disappointment over a refusal from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs to establish a department task force or working group to ensure its programs are accessible to veterans with limited English proficiency. This is despite the department’s own admission that ‘additional work is needed to ensure the department complies with the intent’ of Executive Order 13166 which provides for the improvement of access to services for persons with limited English proficiency. “I am extremely disappointed that once again the Bush administration is choosing to leave our veterans behind. Without a task force or working group with specific responsibility for ensuring that its programs are accessible by persons with limited English proficiency, veterans may not receive appropriate care,” said Solís. “This blatant refusal to act is a slap in the face to those who are proudly serving our nation. I urge the administration to reconsider this decision and to fully implement all steps to ensure its programs are accessible to persons with limited English proficiency.” Executive Order 13166 requires the VA to prepare a plan to improve access to its programs by eligible persons with limited English proficiency. In a letter last spring, the VA noted that less than half of its facilities have implemented a written policy to ensure that services are provided in a linguistically and culturally competent manner and more than one-third have failed to provide monitoring and oversight. Only 43% of VA facilities have trained their staff to understand the VA’s policy and less than a quarter of facilities have translated materials into languages they encounter, according to the congresswoman. Solís has introduced legislation to ensure VA services are culturally and linguistically appropriate (H.R. 5007) and has asked the Government Accountability Office to investigate the status of the VA’s implementation of Executive Order 13166. In 2004, legislation Solís introduced to expedite the naturalization process for the more than 35,000 non-U.S. citizens serving in the U.S. armed forces and Reserves was signed into law. AG GONZALES ANNOUNCES INITIATIVE TO FIGHT CRIME IN TARGETED CITIES Attorney General Alberto Gonzáles announced Oct. 16 the launch of the Initiative for Safer Communities to target violent crime prevention efforts in selected communities across the country. Though the national crime rate generally remained at record low levels across the country in 2005, some cities experienced an increase in certain types of violent crimes, according to FBI and Department of Justice (DOJ) surveys. The first stage of the three-part Initiative, to begin over the next several weeks, will investigate the increase in crime experienced by representative cities. In this phase, DOJ will conduct a detailed survey and visit local law enforcement in impacted areas to identify possible factors contributing to the increase. The second phase of the Initiative will focus on policy development by analyzing the findings of the investigative phase to identify the roots of the localized increases in crime. The third phase will focus on matching localized results with established federal programs that are proven to be effective in combating crime and, where necessary, creating new initiatives. “The Department of Justice is committed to making sure that every American city and town can share in the success of low violent crime rates,” said Gonzáles. “The Initiative for Safer Communities will help us find and use the tools that work most effectively to fight crime and keep our communities safe.” The cities to be examined in the investigative phase of the initiative are still being finalized, but both cities which have experienced increases in crime and significant decreases in crime will be studied, in order to best determine which crime-prevention tactics have been most effective. LAST WEEK… *** Rep. José Serrano (D-N.Y.) Oct. 23 renewed his call for an immediate and complete withdrawal of U.S. troops from Iraq. “If I had had it my way in 2003, we would have never been in Iraq,” Serrano said. “If I could have my way now, we’d be withdrawing all soldiers immediately. But this administration and their Republican congressional allies continue to ignore the realities of an irretrievable disaster in Iraq—and fail to provide any changes in strategy.” Serrano added, “As I see it, the only way to win the war in Iraq is to admit that we do not have the ability to control the situation and withdraw our troops. Our brave men and women in uniform have done all they can do in Iraq. It is time for them to come home to the hero’s welcome they all deserve.” *** *** Sen. Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.), a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, Oct. 20 called on Attorney General Alberto Gonzáles to appeal the dismissal of the criminal convictions of former Enron Chairman and CEO, Kenneth Lay due to his death in July. “The dismissal of Kenneth L. Lay’s conviction by U.S. District Court Sim Lake of the Southern District of Texas is disconcerting and demands immediate attention.” Feinstein said in a letter to Gonzáles. “I urge the Justice Department to seek an appeal of Judge Lake’s decision, so that the government can fight to preserve Enron victims’ hard-fought right to obtain restitution.” Feinstein also expressed concern that the Justice Department failed to notify all members of the House and Senate Judiciary Committee in seeking a legislative fix to the issue of dismissal of Mr. Lay’s convictions, instead turning only to Vice President Dick Cheney and Speaker of the House of Representatives Dennis Hastert (R-Ill.). In addition, Feinstein announced her intention to introduce legislation to address the issue when Congress returns in November for a lame-duck session.*** *** The Dominican Republic is considering submitting its candidacy for a spot on the United Nations Security Council to end the current deadlock in votes, Dominican President Leonel Fernández said last week during a meeting in Washington. Members are currently considering which Latin American country would serve a two-year term on the Council, and after more than 30 rounds of votes, neither Guatemala nor Venezuela -- the two frontrunners -- have received the necessary two-thirds vote. The Bush administration has said it does not back Venezuela’s candidacy, and Venezuela blames the White House for not receiving enough votes on the Council. The Dominican Republic had planned to submit its Security Council candidacy in 2009 before the current situation arose. “We are thinking about doing it now, (because) we need to get out of this impasse,” Fernández said during an Oct. 26 conference at the Center for Strategic and International Studies. *** COUNTDOWN TO ELECTION… *** The National Republican Campaign Committee has spent almost $1 million in the congressional seat once held by disgraced former congressman Mark Foley (R-Fla.), who resigned earlier this month over alleged inappropriate contact with underage congressional pages. Florida state Senator Joe Negrón was named to run in Foley’s place -- once considered a safe GOP hold -- but Foley resigned too late to change the ballot. A state judicial court ruled that Republicans cannot place Negrón signs at the polls, saying it would do “irreparable harm” to the Democratic candidate, businessman Tim Mahoney, who is currently running ahead in the polls. House Republican leadership has all but written off the seat, but Negrón maintains he still has a chance. *** *** Sen. Robert Menéndez (D-N.J.) and his Republican opponent, Tom Kean Jr. are running neck-and-neck with a week left for the Nov. 7 elections, according to a CBS News/The New York Times poll released over the weekend. While the poll shows Menéndez leading 38 percent to 36 percent among registered voters, the margin of error of plus or minus three percent makes the race a statistical dead heat. The poll also showed that many people are still undecided, with a surprisingly high 39 percent saying they “could” change their minds by Election Day. In another tight race, New Mexico Attorney General Patricia Madrid, attempting to unseat Republican congresswoman Heather Wilson, holds a slight lead, although statistically it is also considered a dead heat. ANNOUNCEMENTS… *** U.S. Commerce Secretary Carlos Gutierrez Oct. 20 swore in Christopher Padilla as the Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) Assistant Secretary for Export Administration. *** *** Five commissioners on the U.S. Commission on Civil Rights Oct. 18 urged Attorney General Alberto Gonzáles to investigate alleged harassment of Hispanic voters. U.S. Commission on Civil Rights chairman Gerald Reynolds and commissioners Jennifer Braceras, Peter Kirsanow, Ashley Taylor, Jr. and Michael Yaki insisted Gonzáles “fully and vigorously” investigate correspondence allegedly sent to some residents of Orange County, Calif. with Hispanic surnames stating that it is illegal for immigrants to cast ballots in elections. Immigrants who go to the polls, the letter continues, could be subject to incarceration or deportation. “Given the time-sensitive nature of this issue,” the commissioners said, “we urge you to take immediate steps to assure Latino voters that there is no penalty to lawful voting and to correct any misimpressions or misrepresentations.” The Congressional Hispanic Caucus has also called for an investigation.*** *** University of Colorado Law School Assistant Dean Lorenzo Trujillo Oct. 16 was appointed General Counsel for the Hispanic National Bar Association (HNBA). As General Counsel, Trujillo will provide legal advice and representation to the HNBA President, and the HNBA Board of Governors.*** *** Ron Jauregui, former director of HOGAR, the Congressional Hispanic Caucus Institute’s Latino Homeownership Initiative, recently joined the Hispanic National Mortgage Association as the Senior Vice President for Community Alliances. HNMA is a for-profit organization focused on increasing homeownership opportunities for historically underserved communities. *** *** The nonpartisan Election Protection coalition Oct. 24 announced the launch of its national 1-866-OUR-VOTE voter assistance hotline and the poll location web site .www.MyPollingPlace.com 1- 866-OUR-VOTE is the only national voter assistance hotline staffed by live call center operators trained to provide state specific assistance to all voters. Lawyers, poll monitors and additional volunteers will be mobilized in 16 key states across the nation to assist voters in the days leading up to the election and on Election Day. Services will also include bilingual assistance for areas with a heavy concentration of Spanish-speaking voters. Election Protection is led by People for the American Way Foundation, the NAACP and the Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights under Law. *** The Capitol Standard October 16, 2006 VOLUME 1, ISSUE 15 CAPITOL HILL… REYES REQUESTS HEARINGS ON DISPOSAL OF HAZARDOUS WASTE Rep. Silvestre Reyes (D-Texas) Oct. 12 requested a series of congressional hearings and investigations regarding newly reported incidents of alleged “illegal treatment and disposal of hazardous waste” by the Defense Department at the Asarco smelting plant in El Paso. Reyes formally asked for hearings by the House Armed Services and House Government Reform Committees to begin the week of November 13 as soon as Congress reconvenes. Additionally, Reyes has asked Comptroller General David Walker for an inquiry by the U.S. Government Accountability Office. Reyes sent letters to Walker and to Armed Services Committee chairman Duncan Hunter (R-Calif.) and ranking member Ike Skelton, (D-Mo.) and to Government Reform Committee chairman Tom Davis (R-Va.) and ranking member Henry Waxman (D-Calif.). Allegations are related to a recently released memorandum from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to local environmentalist groups opposing any plans by Asarco to reopen the huge copper refinery which was closed in 1999 due to falling copper prices. Reyes said he envisioned testimony from officials of the departments of Defense, Energy and State, and the EPA and Asarco. Several hundred tons of hazardous waste originated from the former U.S. Army Chemical Warfare Depot at the Rocky Mountain Arsenal near Denver. Reyes said the EPA apparently has not described the specific contents of the material or the methods used for disposal. “The list of questions is compelling,” Reyes said, adding he wants answers about former and current processes for disposal of hazardous materials and controls over hazardous wastes awaiting disposal. TANCREDO ASKS GSA FOR GOVERNMENT BOYCOTT OF VENEZUELAN OIL Rep. Tom Tancredo (R-Colo.) Oct. 12 sent a letter to Thomas Dryer, the General Services Administration’s Acting Associate Administrator for Congressional Affairs, asking him to consider a new rule that would prevent government employees from using government credit cards to purchase CITGO gasoline to protest Venezuelan leader Hugo Chávez’s recent speech at the United Nations. “Chávez’s now infamous delusional outburst was an insult to the entire country,” said Tancredo, chairman of the Congressional Immigration Reform Caucus. “It is time for taxpayers to stop pouring money into the pockets of this despot.” In a speech before the U.N. General Assembly, Chávez said, referring to President Bush, “The devil came here yesterday. Right here. And it still smells of sulfur today. The hegemonic pretensions of the American empire are placing at risk the very survival of the human species.” CITGO is owned by PDV America, Inc., a subsidiary of Petróleos de Venezuela, the national oil company of Venezuela. Tancredo said, “Hugo Chávez has repeatedly bitten the American hand that feeds him, and it is time…to collectively bite back.” “Americans can make their own private decisions about whether or not they want to purchase CITGO gasoline products, but U.S. taxpayers certainly should not be compelled to bankroll Chávez’s menacing rise,” concluded Tancredo. SERRANO ACES ENVIRONMENTAL SCORECARD Rep. José Serrano (D-N.Y.) received a 100% score on the 2006 League of Conservation Voters’ Environmental Scorecard. “I believe that Congress must take the lead in protecting our environment,” Serrano said Oct. 13. “Unfortunately, in a Congress run by a conservative Republican majority, pro-environment legislative successes were few. Our environment and the planet’s health are approaching dangerous tipping points, after which it will be hard or impossible to repair the damage already done. We must take action now and not pass these problems on to the next generation.” The League of Conservation Voters explains that its National Environmental Scorecard - based on a scale of 0 to 100 - was scored on the number of pro-environment votes cast out of the total number included for 2006. Absences are counted as a negative vote. Among the votes included in the 2006 Scorecard are those on offshore drilling, drilling royalties, public health and environmental funding.” “We consider the Scorecard a tool to let the public know about the most important environmental legislation considered by Congress this past session and exactly how their elected officials voted on these key issues affecting the environment as well as their health and pocketbooks,” LCV president Gene Karpinski said. “I look forward to a time when the White House and Congress are controlled by people who care to take action to protect the environment,” Serrano added. “Hopefully the Congress will change hands in upcoming weeks. In the meantime, I will continue to push worthy initiatives, and vote against measures that harm our environment.” LAST WEEK… *** Sen. Ken Salazar (D-Colo.) Oct. 11 requested Attorney General Alberto Gonzáles take immediate steps to ensure that the U.S. Bureau of Prisons remedy the security flaws at a Colorado ‘Supermax’ prison that let convicted terrorists send letters aimed at recruiting suicide bombers. Salazar made the request in a letter that outlined a report issued earlier in the month by the Justice Department’s Office of the Inspector General regarding surveillance of inmates at federal penitentiaries. In his letter, Salazar said the OIG report found a number of problems, among them a failure to read all of the mail from the highest-risk prisoners and the random monitoring of only 1.8% of inmate mail. According to the report, the BOP did not hire any full-time Arabic language specialists to translate inmate communications until 2005. Those specialists, once hired, did not receive counterterrorism intelligence training during the first year of their employment – which made it difficult to analyze the mail they were translating. *** *** At a Capitol Hill briefing sponsored Oct. 11 by the National Council of La Raza, panelists urged the next Congress to fully fund the Even Start family literacy program. The panel, which included the participation of Rep. Bill Goodling (R-Pa.), former chair of the House Education and Workforce Committee and author of the Even Start program, addressed the importance of Even Start for helping the lowest-income adults and children in the U.S. improve their reading and learning skills. “The Even Start family literacy program is critically important for low-income families, nearly half of whom are Latino. Even Start helps parents fulfill their roles as their children’s first teachers, and has been highly successful in helping immigrant parents integrate, learn English, and help their children succeed in school,” said NCLR president Janet Murguía. According to Goodling, parents and children of color make up 70% of Even Start participants. Of those, 46% are Latino. *** *** The U.S. Justice Department Oct. 13 filed a lawsuit against the city of Philadelphia, saying that city’s failure to provide Spanish-language ballots is a violation of the Voting Rights Act, which was recently reauthorized and extended for 25 years. Federal officials say the rights of Spanish-speaking voters are protected under the 1965 law. The VRA requires that localities with large populations of non-English or limited-English speakers provide materials in languages other than English. A majority of Philadelphia’s limited-English or non-English-speaking population are Spanish speakers. “In light of the serious problems faced by minority language citizen voters in Philadelphia, we hope that city officials and the Justice Department can reach an agreement quickly to begin essential remedial measures in time for the 2006 federal elections,” said Assistant Attorney General Wan Kim. The lawsuit also states that Philadelphia officials failed to provide assistance at the polls to Spanish-speaking voters. The suit was filed with the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania. *** *** President Bush Oct. 13 signed the “Security and Accountability for Every Port Act of 2006,”commonly known as the SAFE Port Act, which increases security measures at the nation’s ports of entry. “Protecting our homeland also requires protecting our seaports. Our seaports are a gateway to commerce, a source of opportunity, and a provider of jobs. Our ports could also be a target of a terrorist attack, and we’re determined to protect them,” the president said during a signing ceremony at the White House. “The bill authorizes the development of 21st century inspection equipment, so that Customs agents can check inside cargo containers for dangerous materials without having to open them. The bill also requires radiation detection technology at our 22 busiest ports by the end of next year. America has the best technology in the world, and with this bill we will apply that technology to make our ports the safest in the world,” the president added. The law also requires that any person working in port security be a U.S. citizen. An exception is made if the Department of Homeland Security determines that a particular person “through a thorough background check” is not a threat to national security. *** *** At the White House signing of a ports security legislation, President Bush said that he would sign into law a bill to authorize the construction of a wall along a 700-mile stretch of the U.S.-Mexico border. Nearly two weeks ago, President Bush signed a bill authorizing initial funding for the wall. “I signed a bill that will allow us to hire 1,500 more Border Patrol agents, deploy advanced technology like ground-based radar and infrared cameras, add beds in our detention facilities so we can work to end catch and release. Congress also passed a bill that will authorize the construction of about 700 miles of double-layered fencing along our Southern border. I’m going to sign that bill into law,” the president said. He did not say when he would sign the legislation, adding, however, that he intends to continue pushing for passage of the stalled immigration legislation. “I’ll continue to work with Congress to pass comprehensive immigration reform that protects our country, enforces our laws, and upholds our values.” *** THE CAPITOL STANDARD October 2, 2006 VOLUME 1, ISSUE 14 CAPITOL HILL… BORDER BILLS PACKAGED INTO DHS APPROPRIATIONS LEGISLATION The 109th Congress adjourned after voting on a series of border security measures, including $1.2 billion for the construction of a border wall along 700 miles of the U.S.-Mexico border, and increasing the penalties for the building of illegal border tunnels between the two countries, a measure that was co-sponsored by Sen. Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.). Feinstein recently sent a letter to Mexico President Vicente Fox, asking him to open an investigation into a recently discovered border tunnel on Mexican Customs property across from the San Diego region in San Ysidro, and the alleged involvement of a Mexican Customs agent in the construction of the tunnel. Feinstein’s legislation, among other things, makes building a border tunnel a crime punishable by up to 20 years in prison. The border wall and border tunnel legislation were included in the appropriations bill for the Department of Homeland Security. While the House of Representatives had earlier voted for a number of other measures, including a bill requiring proof of citizenship at the polls and authorizing local and state police to work with immigration authorities, those bills did not make it into the final version taken up by the Senate. Members of Congress left for the campaign trail without taking up other issues, such as an increase in the minimum wage and immigration reform. “This Congress has distinguished itself for not discussing a number of issues, and it’s really too bad that they did nothing about immigration,” said Federico de Jesús, a spokesperson for Senate Democratic Leader Harry Reid of Nevada. However, said Rep. Mario Díaz-Balart (R-Fla.), “The only president who has proposed legalizing undocumented workers has been this one, George W. Bush,” adding, “some issues take time, but that doesn’t mean it’s not going to happen.” Congress is expected to return after the November 7 elections for a special lame-duck session. LATINO SENATORS OK BILL TO ALLOW PREZ TO CONVENE MILITARY TRIBUNALS All three Hispanic members of the U.S. Senate, Republican Mel Martínez of Florida and Democrats Robert Menéndez of New Jersey and Ken Salazar of Colorado voted with the majority to pass legislation that allows President Bush to convene military tribunals to prosecute alleged terrorists under certain guidelines. While the bill provides definitions of abusive treatment of detainees, it does not specify what methods would be allowed. Under the legislation, interrogators would be prohibited from engaging in “waterboarding,” or simulated drowning, and deprivation of food, among other methods. The House of Representatives voted earlier for the legislation, with Democrats Henry Cuéllar of Texas and John Salazar of Colorado voting with the majority to pass the legislation. Congress took up the issue after the U.S. Supreme Court ruled this summer that the Bush administration’s methods were unconstitutional and violated the country’s treaty obligations. Although the bill is targeted to more than 14,000 detainees -- largely in Iraq -- it would actually only apply to a fraction of those currently in U.S. custody, because the vast majority are held by the military, which follows its own guidelines established by the Defense Department. Military guidelines already prohibit abusive interrogations. International law critics of the legislation say that the legislation, by eliminating the constitutional right for anyone, citizen or not, under U.S. jurisdiction to equal legal protection under the law -- referred to as habeas corpus -- sets a dangerous precedent by violating the Constitution and lowers U.S. standing around the world. Of the Latino legislators who voted for the legislation, all three Senators are former lawyers, including Ken Salazar, who was a state Attorney General. On the House side among those voting in the affirmative, both Henry Cuéllar and Florida Republican Lincoln Díaz-Balart are former attorneys. MARTINEZ UNVEILS NATIONAL HURRICANE RESEARCH INITIATIVE Sen. Mel Martínez (R-Fla.) Sept. 29 introduced legislation to implement a national hurricane research initiative designed to better research, predict and prepare for hurricanes. Martínez crafted the proposal working from recommendations presented by the National Science Foundation’s new draft report titled, Hurricane Warning: The Critical Need for a National Hurricane Research Initiative. The bill’s original cosponsors include senators Mary Landrieu (D-La.), David Vitter (R-La.), and Bill Nelson (D-Fla.). “Hurricanes, by far, cause more economic damage to a more widespread area than any other natural disaster. This bill takes sound, scientific recommendations and builds from them a foundation for better, more coordinated research,” said Martínez. According to the senator, the National Hurricane Research Initiative (NHRI) takes the general recommendations of the National Science Board and assembles the expertise of the country’s science and engineering capabilities through a multi-agency effort that is focused on a better understanding of hurricane prediction, intensity, and mitigation on coastal populations, infrastructure, and the natural environment. “Florida and other Gulf Coast states have a lot at stake and every hurricane season we have a lot of unknowns. Better, more intense, and more coordinated research can help us better prepare in the future,” said Martínez. The legislation puts the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and the National Science Foundation (NSF) in charge of crafting specific strategies for implementing and overseeing the NHRI. The bill sets out specific goals for NHRI research including predicting hurricane intensification and storm surge, improved observations, and assessment of vulnerable infrastructure. The proposal would also establish a National Infrastructure Data Base in order to provide a baseline for developing standards, measuring modification and loss, and establishing public policy to better understand hurricanes and tropical storms. SALAZAR PUSHES FOR CHANGE IN REIMBURSEMENT POLICY FOR INDEPENDENT, RURAL PHARMACISTS Sen. Ken Salazar (D-Colo.) Sept. 25 renewed his efforts to help independent, rural pharmacists by pushing the Senate Finance Committee to act on legislation requiring pharmacies to be reimbursed every 14 days, instead of every 30. Under the new Medicare Prescription Drug Program, most prescription drug plans reimburse pharmacies for the drugs they sell to Medicare patients once every 30 days or longer. Salazar said this delay is too long for smaller, independent pharmacists to bear. The senator also urged the Committee to investigate claims that the current reimbursement rates for medications dispersed through Medicare are inadequate. “In many communities, particularly those in rural Colorado and across the nation, the pharmacist is much more than just a pill dispenser,” Salazar said. “A pharmacist is a trusted medical advisor. Unfortunately, this critical link in the health care chain is in danger of breaking down because smaller, independent pharmacies simply cannot afford to wait 30 days to be reimbursed for drugs dispensed to Medicare beneficiaries.” There are currently three bills before the Senate Finance Committee that, if enacted, would require 14-day reimbursements. The Pharmacy Access Improvement Act of 2006 (S. 2664), the Pharmacists Medicare Relief Act (S. 2723), and the Pharmacist Access and Recognition in Medicare Act (S. 2563) would provide relief to pharmacies by requiring more prompt payment by prescription drug plans. All of the three bills have bipartisan support. They would need to be re-introduced in a new congressional session next year if not taken up in an expected lame-duck session in mid-November. “The legislation currently in the Finance Committee would halve the reimbursement rate from once a month to once every two weeks. It is simple, common sense legislation that will keep our pharmacies from shutting their doors. I also urge the Committee to investigate the reimbursement rates pharmacists are receiving so that smaller, independent pharmacies can continue to provide the excellent care and advice so many Coloradans rely on,” the senator added. Salazar also asked the Finance Committee chairman and ranking member to launch an investigation to determine an adequate solution to pharmacy reimbursements. MENENDEZ, KENNEDY INTRODUCE LEGISLATION TO ADDRESS MEDICARE “DONUT HOLE” Sens. Robert Menéndez (D-N.J.) and Edward Kennedy (D-Mass.) Sept. 27 introduced S. 3954, the Honest Medicare Act of 2006 to monitor the Medicare Part D “donut hole” and its effect on senior citizens. Under the Medicare Modernization Act of 2003, the Medicare Prescription Drug benefit, also known as Part D, was designed with a coverage gap in the middle. This gap is known as the “donut hole.” After their prescription drug costs have reached $2,250, beneficiaries must bear the full cost of those drugs alone for the next $2,850, with no assistance, while paying their monthly premiums. Kennedy said, “The Bush Administration and the Republican Congress enacted a Medicare drug law designed by the drug companies and for the drug companies. Millions of seniors will be denied the medicines they need because the law includes a gaping hole in the coverage -- and the Bush Administration won’t even tell Congress and the American people how many seniors are at risk. Our bill requires the Administration to level with the American people on how many seniors are losing coverage for the drugs they need to protect their health.” The bill would require the Secretary of Health and Human Services to provide a monthly report on the number of seniors who have fallen into the so-called donut hole. It would also require the secretary to monitor and report on the amount that enrollees are spending on prescription drugs while in the “donut hole.” “I have heard the heart-wrenching stories from my constituents who have fallen into the donut hole and are no longer covered for critical medicines,” said Menéndez. “What we don’t know are the specifics of how many seniors have fallen into this hole and how much of their own money they’ve had to spend on prescriptions. With better information we can tackle this problem afflicting so many of our seniors.” According to the Institute for America’s Future, the average Medicare beneficiary who enrolled in the drug program at the beginning of this year has already fallen into the “donut hole”; and nearly seven million seniors this year alone will find themselves in the coverage gap. HISPANIC CAUCUS APPLAUDS STEP IN CREATING A NATIONAL LATINO MUSEUM The House of Representatives Sept. 27 unanimously approved H.R. 2134, The Commission to Study the Potential Creation of a National Museum of American Latino Heritage Act. “The idea of a Latino Smithsonian Museum has been around for a long time, and this is the first step to making that idea become reality. It is very important to begin the process to finally recognize the value of the Latino culture,” said Congressional Hispanic Caucus Chair Grace Napolitano (D-Calif.). “Rep. Becerra, who sits on the Smithsonian Board of Regents, has done an excellent job leading this effort--and we fully support him and his efforts to make the National Latino Museum a reality.” H.R. 2134 calls for a 23-member commission to produce a national conference that would bring stakeholders, experts, policymakers, and other interested parties together to discuss the museum’s viability; a fundraising plan to create an extensive public-private partnership; and a report to Congress detailing a recommended plan of action on how to move forward making the museum a reality. “Walk through our national museums here in Washington, D.C., and you will get as good a snapshot of America as you can find anywhere in this country,” Becerra said. “Yet the lessons of our history, art and culture are still incomplete. (The vote) by the House of Representatives was a critical step in ensuring that the mosaic portrayed in Washington’s museums truly reflects America.” H.R. 2134 now moves to the Senate, where it has the bipartisan support of 24 senators. However, it would have to be reintroduced under a new Congress if not taken up during an expected lame-duck session in mid-November. Once approved and signed by the president, the Commission can begin to work on its report to Congress. Said Rep. Ileana Ros-Lehtinen (R-Fla.),”I am very pleased that my colleagues saw the importance of passing this legislation. A museum for the Hispanic-American community would honor all Americans.” LAST WEEK… *** New Jersey Democratic Senator Robert Menéndez and his Republican rival New Jersey state Senator Tom Kean, Jr., are in a virtual dead heat in the race for a full six-year term in the U.S. Senate. Menéndez was appointed in January to fill in the remaining year of Senator Jon Corzine when he was elected governor. According to the poll by the Eagleton Center for Public Policy at Rutgers University, 45 percent said they preferred Menéndez, while 44 percent backed Kean. The survey also found that only 36 percent knew that Menéndez already represented the state in the U.S. Senate. The poll has a margin of error of plus or minus five percent. Both candidates are on the same side on most issues, except for Iraq. Menéndez has said that one of his proudest moments in Congress was voting in 2002 against granting President Bush authorization to go to war with Iraq. Kean, the son of a popular former governor, has said he would have voted with the president. *** *** Congressional Republicans, the White House and the Small Business Administration have failed minority-owned businesses, according to a report released by Democrats on the House Small Business Committee. “When it comes to taking care of the new faces of the business community in this country, there is a lack of commitment to help them,” said Rep. Nydia Velázquez (D-N.Y.), ranking member of the committee, pointing in particular to the SBA’s 7(a) program, the agency’s largest lending program. Funding for the program was zeroed out this year. Hispanic-owned businesses represent one of the fastest-growing sectors of the business community, currently representing nearly a third of all small business in the country. The report found that close to 200 bills related to small business were introduced during the 109th Congress, but only 20 passed. Those included legislation on affordable healthcare for small businesses, access to capital, and a prohibition against the practice of contract bundling, where several businesses band together to seek a federal contract and successfully outbid a smaller business. Committee chair Don Manzullo (R-Ill.) has said that he and Velázquez actually agree on several issues, including healthcare and contract bundling, but that the legislation would be blocked by Senate Democrats. *** September 25, 2006 VOLUME 1, ISSUE 13 CAPITOL HILL… FATE OF BORDER SERCURITY MEASURES TO BE DECIDED THIS WEEK Conference committee negotiators on an appropriations funding bill for the Department of Homeland Security meet this week to decide if a number of border security measures passed by the House last week would be attached to the DHS bill. Several Republicans are pushing for the bills to be attached, but Senate Judiciary Committee chairman Arlen Specter (R-Pa.), a supporter of immigration reform legislation, says he is against attaching the bills, because there wouldn't be “any motivation” for the House to negotiate with the Senate regarding the respective immigration bills since “we would take care of all their priorities but none from the Senate.” Additionally, other legislators say they don’t want an appropriations bill for homeland security to be delayed by disagreements that may develop over the border security bills if they are part of the bill. The bills include a proposal to require voters to show photo ID and proof of citizenship at the polls, another for accelerated deportation of immigrant gang members, and yet another that would allow local and state law enforcement to perform immigration enforcement duties. Also this week, the Senate considers legislation to build a 700-mile fence along a portion of the U.S.-Mexico border. The bill passed the House nearly two weeks ago, with Republican Henry Bonilla of Texas and Democrat Dennis Cardoza of California as the only Hispanic members to vote for it. It was the second time since December 2005 that House legislators had voted on a border fence bill. President Bush has said he would sign it into law. MENENDEZ URGES QUICK FDA ACTION TO PROTECT N.J. SPINACH FARMERS New Jersey Democrats Robert Menéndez and Frank Lautenberg Sept. 20 asked the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to move rapidly in identifying where spinach tainted with strains of E. coli bacteria was being grown, and to issue a new advisory as soon as possible to reassure the public that New Jersey spinach is safe. The FDA advisory – issued last week upon reports of sickness and death from contaminated spinach – applies to all bagged spinach in the country. Yet no outbreaks have been reported to date in the Garden State, nor is there evidence that any of the infected spinach was grown locally. “As the nation’s fourth-largest spinach producer, spinach farming is a multi-million dollar industry for the Garden State,” Menéndez said. “That is why we are imploring the FDA to move quickly in identifying the source of the infected spinach. Each day this advisory stands is another day that New Jersey spinach farmers, and the Garden State economy, suffer losses.” The lawmakers fear the FDA’s advisory is too broad and may harm the $6.2 million industry. In a letter to FDA Acting Commissioner Dr. Andrew C. von Eschenbach, the senators wrote, “New Jersey farmers already face a number of significant challenges staying in business, and they should not be unduly harmed due to circumstances beyond their control.” They continued, “It is our hope that New Jersey’s spinach will be cleared in the immediate future and a new advisory will be issued to reflect that and to restore public confidence in New Jersey produce.” HISPANIC DEMS ASK GAO TO CONTINUE EXAMINATION OF LATINO UNDERREPRESENTATION IN FEDERAL WORKFORCE The Congressional Hispanic Caucus has requested from the General Accounting Office that it continue research on Hispanics in the federal workforce. A recent report by the GAO, the non-partisan investigative arm of the U.S. Congress, found that Hispanics continue to be underrepresented in the federal workforce, particularly in senior levels. Caucus members say that the report still left some questions unanswered, including what steps the federal government is taking to ensure that agencies enforce a presidential executive order to increase Hispanic employment, and what steps are being taken to hold senior-level managers accountable for the lack of Hispanic representation in the federal government. “This report indicates a good start by the federal government on building a more representative federal workforce,” said Caucus chair Grace Napolitano (D-Calif.). “However, it also serves as a powerful reminder of the work we have left to do.” Added fellow Californian Joe Baca, “If America believes in the values of a representative government, we must ensure that Hispanics are fully included and represented in the federal workforce. (The Caucus) will continue to hold the Office of Personnel Management accountable for increasing diversity in federal hiring.” CUELLAR ANNOUNCES TAX RELIEF FOR LIVESTOCK PRODUCERS Rep. Henry Cuéllar (D-Texas) announced Sept. 20 that the Internal Revenue Service has granted livestock producers additional time to recognize capital gains when they were forced to sell their animals because of the lingering drought in the state. “Liquidation of a herd is a financial and emotional drain,” Cuéllar said. “The IRS recognizes that rebuilding a herd takes time. This extension is welcome relief.” In a February letter to the House leadership, Cuéllar asked that appropriate declarations be put into place so that the tax burden created by the forced sale of livestock is minimized. Due to prolonged drought in parts of the United States, the IRS is providing additional time to replace livestock that was sold as a result of drought. To assist a taxpayer in determining whether his replacement period has been extended, the IRS will make available a list of counties that experienced exceptional, extreme or severe drought for the 12-month period ending on August 31 after consultation with the National Drought Mitigation Center. The IRS expects to publish a similar list for succeeding years. “I will continue to be an independent voice for those ranchers and farmers suffering from this drought,” noted Cuéllar. “I will fight to ensure that our agricultural producers have the assistance they need to stay in business.” COMMERCE ANNOUNCES INFORMATION FROM REVIEWS OF MISSING DEPARTMENT LAPTOPS AND POTENTIAL BREACHES OF PERSONAL DATA The Commerce Department Sept. 21 announced information from its recent department-wide reviews of missing, lost or stolen laptops and potential breaches of personal identity data. The department continues its review and officials say the department is not aware of any data being improperly accessed or used. The information gathered from the reviews indicates that the Census Bureau had the disproportionate share of missing equipment and data. The reviews were in response to broad, government-wide Congressional and public inquiries. Based on the review in response to the public inquiry, the department determined that within its 15 operating units for the years 2001 to the present, out of over 30,000 laptops within its inventory over that time period, 1,137 were lost, stolen or missing. Of these laptops, 249 contained personally identifiable information (PII), although access passwords, complex database software, systemic safeguards and/or encryption technology significantly limit the potential for misuse of data on the laptops. A separate review in response to a request for information from the Government Reform Committee Chairman Tom Davis (R-Va.) regarding the loss or compromise of any sensitive personal information from 2003 to the present found that there were 297 instances. These included: 217 laptops; 15 handheld devices; 46 thumbdrives; with the rest involving documents or other materials. “We have an obligation to be good stewards of public property and government data. The amount of missing computers is high, but fortunately, the vulnerability for data misuse is low. While we know of no instances of personal information being improperly used, we regret each instance of lost material and believe the volume of lost equipment is unacceptable,” said Commerce Secretary Carlos Gutiérrez. “All of the equipment that was lost or stolen contained protections to prevent a breach of personal information, and we are moving to institute better management, accountability, inventory controls, 100% encryption, and improved training.” According to Gutiérrez, he will ask the department’s Inspector General to perform an investigation and raise employee accountability standards, among other actions, to protect data. LAST WEEK… *** Sen. Robert Menéndez (D-N.J.) received the American Cancer Society’s highest national advocacy honor, the National Distinguished Advocacy Award, for his long-time commitment to the fight against cancer and his determination to seek bipartisan policy solutions to combat the disease. The Society highlighted Menéndez’s Patient Navigator Act –signed into law in 2005 – which will help the uninsured, the underinsured, racial and ethnic minorities, and rural populations navigate the often confusing healthcare system, while educating individuals about cancer and chronic disease prevention. “Being told that you have cancer is devastating enough, but with the difficulty of trying to make decisions about treatment options, the process can be completely overwhelming,” Menéndez said. “The patient navigator will help patients through this process, make sure they know and understand their treatment options, and ensure they get the care they need to beat their cancer. I am honored to be recognized for my work on this issue, and pledge to continue fighting this devastating disease and disparities in healthcare with all my might.” *** *** While the Republican leadership in the House and Senate have said immigration reform will not be taken up in the remaining days of the 109th Congress, Mexico President Vicente Fox said he was “confident” U.S. legislators would approve comprehensive immigration reform before he leaves office in December. “Let’s say we’re in the ninth inning with two strikes and three balls,” Fox said last week during a press briefing in New York, where he was attending opening sessions of the United Nations General Assembly. “What’s needed is for President Bush to hit a home run to get it approved. We need just one more step.” *** *** The National Council of La Raza and Rep. Charlie Norwood (R-Ga.) are at odds over comments Rep. Norwood made accusing NCLR of being “radical” and “an anti-American organization that supports racist groups calling for the secession of the western United States as a Hispanic-only homeland.” Norwood was referring to a small grant, $2,500, NCLR gave in 2003 to the Georgetown University chapter of the Mexican-American student group MECha. NCLR calls the accusation “patently false” and says Norwood continues to insist on “a bizarre interpretation of our work.” Norwood said he would apologize to NCLR only if they pledge to sever ties with MECha and “radical groups,” and “repudiate all claims that any American territory belongs to Mexico.” Norwood additionally wants NCLR to have “outside supervision” to ensure its programs do not discriminate. THE CAPITOL STANDARD September 18, 2006 VOLUME 1, ISSUE 12 CAPITOL HILL… BALLOT ID MEASURE MAY COME BEFORE HOUSE The U.S. House of Representatives could vote this week on legislation which would require that by 2008, voters provide photo identification before casting ballots. The bill would also require that by 2010, voters provide proof of citizenship. The bill is among a series of measures introduced by House Republicans which focus on border security and ties what they call a “porous” border along the southwest to President Bush’s war on terrorism. “The state of our borders is a security crisis. This is an emergency that Congress must address before November,” said House Speaker Dennis Hastert (R-Ill.). “The American people want immediate targeted legislation specifically designed to secure the border, protect our homeland, and vigorously enforce our immigration laws.” Last week, the House passed legislation to build a 700-mile barrier along a portion of the U.S.-Mexico border. It was the second time House legislators voted on the issue. The measure was included in the enforcement-only bill passed by the House last December. “I am extremely disappointed that after all we hear about terrorism, after all we hear about threats to our homeland security - this is the best we can do,” said Rep. Silvestre Reyes (D-Texas), a former Border Patrol chief. “(It's) the equivalent of a doctor in the emergency room having a patient come in from a severe automobile accident with broken limbs and wounds over most parts of the body, and the physician saying, ‘Nurse, give me a Band-aid.’ This is a Band-aid approach, and we can do much better.” MARTINEZ CALLS FOR PREDATORY LENDING REFORMS Sen. Mel Martínez (R-Fla.) Sept. 15 called on predatory lenders, including so-called “payday loan” lenders, to reform their services and bring an end to what he called outrageous interest rates and loan service fees. Martínez made the comments at a Senate Banking Committee hearing that examined a recent Department of Defense report on predatory lending that targets members of the U.S. Armed Forces. “The report shows that predatory lending practices are widespread and the men and women of our military are a prime target,” said Martínez. “Payday loan lenders that charge 390 percent interest and outrageous loan fees ought to be exposed for what they are – abusive and unconscionable.” According to the Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society, military families pay an estimated $80 million annually in “payday loan” fees. The DOD reports that predatory lending practices are interfering with operational readiness and national security. A recent study by the Navy showed that the number of security clearances that were revoked or denied due to financial problems jumped from 212 in fiscal year 2002 to almost 2,000 in fiscal year 2005, according to the senator. Martínez has joined with Sen. Jim Talent (R-Mo.) in urging the Defense Authorization Act conferees to maintain the service members’ Anti-Predatory Lending Amendment in the final conference report. This amendment, which includes lending protections for all military personnel such as a cap on annual percentage interest rates and prohibition of automatic “rollovers,” passed unanimously in the Senate. REP. LINDA SANCHEZ EARNS AN ‘A’ FOR EFFORTS TO STOP DARFUR GENOCIDE Rep. Linda Sánchez (D-Calif.) recently received an ‘A’ on Darfurscores.org, a congressional “report card” by the Genocide Intervention Network (GI-Net) on efforts to stop the genocide in Sudan’s Darfur region. GI-Net awarded the ‘A’ grade based on Sánchez’s co-sponsorship of the Genocide Accountability Act, the Darfur Peace and Accountability Act, and H. Res. 723 which calls for the United Nations (U.N.) and the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) to take action in protecting civilians in the region. “The millions of people suffering this atrocity are our brothers and our sisters. It is imperative that we stand up for what is right and do everything in our power to end the genocide,” said Sánchez. Due in part to the pressure exerted by H. Res. 723, according to Sánchez, the U.N. Security Council recently approved the deployment of a peacekeeping mission for Sudan. A small and under-funded African Union peacekeeping force in Darfur is scheduled to depart at the end of this month. To date, as many as 400,000 civilians have been killed, and 2.5 million others have been forced to flee their homes. “Congresswoman Sánchez is a champion of the cause and has taken crucial action to end the genocide in Darfur,” said GI-Net Executive Director Mark Hanis. “However, we still have a lot more to do, and we need Congresswoman Sánchez to keep talking and writing about Darfur.” “In 2006, less than half of the House and Senate effectively stood up for Darfur,” Hanis commented. “To ensure protection for Dafurians in the future, an overwhelming majority of Congress must commit themselves to ending genocide and making ‘never again’ not just a promise we make, but a commitment we keep.” DEMS, GOP DELIVER PARTISAN HISPANIC HERITAGE MESSAGES Republicans and Democrats issued vastly different statements in commemoration of Hispanic Heritage Month, which began this weekend. Senate Democratic Leader Harry Reid (D-Nev.) urged Latinos to register to vote for the upcoming November congressional elections. “Latinos have helped make our nation stronger and more vibrant. (The community's) contributions in the arts, the economy and politics have had a lasting impact in our nation’s fabric...Yet despite all of these contributions, the Bush Administration and the Republican-controlled Congress have given their backs to Latino families,” the senator said. “They have done nothing to address the fact that 1 out of every 3 Latinos is uninsured. They have also sat by while Latinos continue to face the highest dropout rates in the country.” Meanwhile, Republican National Committee chairman Ken Mehlman touted what he says is the president’s support of the community. “Under the leadership of President George W. Bush, the Republican Party is more committed than ever to build a stronger and more diverse party. Republican policies are empowering Latino Americans to make the American Dream a reality,” Mehlman commented. “As a result, today, fifty percent of Latinos own their home, more Hispanics are starting new businesses, the education gap is narrowing among minority students, and we have the most diverse administration in U.S. history.” BONILLA CALLS FOR AGRICULTURE DISASTER ASSISTANCE Rep. Henry Bonilla (R-Texas), chair of the House Agriculture Appropriations subcommittee, joined a bipartisan, bicameral delegation along with several agricultural organizations at a press conference this week highlighting the need for disaster assistance for farmers and ranchers in Texas and across the country. Bonilla was joined by at least a dozen other members of the House and Senate Agriculture and Agricultural Appropriations committees including Reps. Randy Neugebauer (R-Texas) and Mike Conaway (R-Texas). Amplifying the call were leaders from the American Farm Bureau, National Farmers Union, National Association of Wheat Growers, National Grain Sorghum Producers and National Corn Growers Association representing millions of U.S. farmers and ranchers. “The time for this assistance is now,” said Bonilla. “Our nation was founded on the economic backbone of the agricultural industry. We must provide our producers with an adequate safety net to ensure their survival.” According Bonilla, Texas A&M University has estimated that the drought alone has cost the state more than $4 billion, and will only increase the longer it persists. The devastating results of the drought, wildfires, winds, and floods have not only affected farmers and ranchers, but the rural communities that depend on the agriculture industry. Other estimates put the financial costs on the communities at twice that of the producers, roughly $8 billion. “There is a tremendous need in this country for agricultural disaster assistance and few states have been hit as hard as Texas,” said Bonilla. “This disaster assistance must be administered with care, making sure that those in the greatest need receive this assistance,” said Bonilla. LAST WEEK… **** At a Rose Garden press conference last Friday, President Bush said he remained committed to passing comprehensive immigration reform despite congressional Republican leaders saying they are focusing on border security and tabling the matter of immigration reform. “I strongly believe that in order to protect this border, Congress has got to pass a comprehensive plan that, on the one hand, provides additional money to secure the border and, on the other hand, recognizes that people are sneaking in here to do jobs Americans aren’t doing. It would be better that they not sneak in, that they would come on a temporary basis, in an orderly way, to do work Americans aren’t doing, and then go home. And I will continue to urge Congress to think comprehensively about this vital piece of legislation,” the president said, adding, “There is a rational way forward. I’ll continue working. I don't know the timetable. My answer is as soon as possible. That's what I’d like to see done.” **** ON THE MOVE… The Congressional Hispanic Leadership Institute (CHLI) announces that Yisel Cabrera will join CHLI as new program manager. She will help to develop, implement and evaluate CHLI’s public policy initiatives and competitive Ford CHLI Leadership Program. Prior to joining CHLI, Cabrera was a project coordinator at the Self Reliance Foundation. David Ferreira joins the U.S. Hispanic Chamber of Commerce as its Director of Government Affairs. Prior to joining USHCC, he was the Legislative Director for Rep. Joe Baca (D-Calif.). Previously Ferreira also served as a White House appointed Special Assistant for Budget and Appropriations at the U.S. Department of Energy during the Clinton administration, and an Appropriations Legislative Assistant for Ret. Rep. Esteban Torres from California. In the Hopper… Sen. Robert Menendez (D-N.J.) introduces S. 3891 to extend the time for filing certain claims under the September 11th Victim Compensation Fund of 2001. Sen. Bill Frist (R-Tenn.) introduces S. 3892 to reduce the number of deaths along the border between the United States and Mexico by improving the placement of rescue beacons. THE CAPITOL STANDARD September 11, 2006 VOLUME 1, ISSUE 11 DEMS, GOP REFLECT ON 9-11 ANNIVERSARY During the week of the fifth anniversary of the September 11 terrorist attacks, Republicans and Democrats will be busy exchanging barbs on which party is more capable of keeping the country safe. Florida Republican Mario Díaz-Balart offered up historical references to say Democrats have been “weak” on the issue for a long time. “In this war on terror, who are we talking about? We're talking about going all the way back to the Ayatollah Khomeni. Every time I look at Iran, I think of the role that President Jimmy Carter had in assisting and helping the Ayatollah Khomeni reach power,” he said. “The Democrats were a big part of the problem, and in many instances if you look at the Carter administration, it took away the support of the Shah of Iran, who was fighting these religious fundamentalists and assisted the Ayatollah Khomeni come into power. That was the Democrats’ great legacy on the war on terror. We inherited that. We inherited 9/11. We inherited the first attack on the World Trade Center. These are things that took place way before we were in Iraq.” Democrats, meanwhile, contend that Republicans are trying to distract the U.S. public from the “huge mess” that has become the situation in Iraq. “Democrats have introduced legislation related to security (such as more funding for first responders) and the Republicans have rejected it. They are the ones that are politicizing the issue,” said Luis Miranda, a spokesperson for the Democratic National Committee. MENENDEZ MEASURE TO BAN DEFENSE MONIES FOR WAR PR MONITORING Sen. Robert Menéndez (D-N.J.) Sept. 7 introduced an amendment that would limit funds for any future public relations campaign being commissioned by the Pentagon to monitor U.S. and Middle Eastern media. Responding to the revelation that the Bush administration wanted to allocate $20 million to improve the image of the Iraqi war, Menéndez urged his colleagues to focus on changing the policy in Iraq, not the propaganda. “This proposal is not just irresponsible; it is an insult to the thousands of Iraqi citizens and coalition forces that have died in this war,” said Menéndez in a statement. “At a time when the violent insurgency continues to expand and American troops are putting their lives on the line day in and day out, what is the Administration’s focus? -- A better public relations campaign. The Bush administration doesn’t need a new PR campaign in Iraq, they need a new policy in Iraq. “We must change the course in Iraq; not waste time, or pay for public relations’ efforts; we must work to reduce the insurgency, not suppress news reports of its existence; we must strive to improve the situation on the ground in Iraq, not focus on changing the spin,” he added. DEFENSE BILL INCLUDES MEASURES PUSHED BY SALAZAR The Senate Sept. 7 passed the Defense Appropriations Act for FY2007 which included several provisions introduced by Sen. Ken Salazar (D-Colo.) to provide funding to support U.S. troops and military operations. The Defense spending bill also included an amendment to provide funds to create a new team focused on the capture of Osama bin Laden and al Qaeda leaders. Salazar was an original co-sponsor of that amendment. “To ensure strong homeland security, we must ensure our nation’s defense and military operations have the funding they need to get the job done,” said Salazar in a statement. In response to press reports that the CIA’s Osama bin Laden unit and the bin Laden Issue Team at the Counter Terrorism Center have both been deactivated, the Defense spending bill includes an amendment from North Dakota Senate Democrats Byron Dorgan and Kent Conrad which would provide $200 million to constitute a new team dedicated to capturing Osama bin Laden and other top al Qaeda leaders. It also requires classified reporting to Congress on national strategy and ongoing efforts to capture top al Qaeda leadership. “We must hold Osama bin Laden and al Qaeda accountable for the attack on this country,” added Salazar. “For the Administration to suggest deactivating the task force focused on bringing those responsible for the 9/11 attacks to justice weakens our national security.” The FY07 Defense Appropriations Bill (H.R. 5631) was referred to conference committee. HOUSE GOPERS PUT IMMIGRATION REFORM ON BACKBURNER House Republicans will this week introduce legislation that focuses on what they say is what Americans want them to work on in the remaining weeks of the final legislative session before the November election campaign season kicks off: border security. House Speaker Dennis Hastert said last week that rather than work on immigration reform, Congress needed to do something about the “porous borders.” The legislation is expected to include a funding request for more high tech detection and monitoring equipment. The Republican leadership had said that a vote on immigration reform was “highly unlikely” during this congressional session, prompting immigration groups and their supporters in Congress to say they will focus on continuing their efforts when the new Congress convenes in January, comprised, they hope, by a legislative body “much friendlier” to the issue. WITH IMMIGRATION REFORM “DEAD” GUTIERREZ URGES LATINOS TO VOTE Rep. Luis Gutiérrez (D-Ill.), chair of the immigration task force of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus, said that now that it appears that the issue of immigration reform is officially “dead” in the 109th Congress, the Latino community should focus on turning out to vote in the crucial November 7 congressional elections. “We organized, we marched, we protested, and they (the Republican majority) did nothing,” Gutiérrez said. “It’s time for the community to say, okay, you know what, we are going to come out and vote in November, and then that way they’ll finally pay attention to us.” Historically, Latino voter turnout is quite low, hovering in the 30-40 percentile, which several Hispanic groups are trying to counter, holding numerous voter registration drives in the remaining weeks before the elections. ANNOUCEMENTS… President George Bush announces his intention to nominate Sara Martínez Tucker as Under Secretary at the U.S. Department of Education. Martínez Tucker will step down as president and CEO of the Hispanic Scholarship Fund at the end of the month. After stating he was stepping down from challenging Republican Henry Bonilla, former congressman and ex-Hispanic Caucus chair Ciro Rodríguez announces he will run against the seven-term incumbent after all. © THE CAPITOL STANDARD 2006