Gov. Bill Haslam campaigns for re-election and for several state constitutional amendments on the November ballot. Haslam faces token opposition for re-election and leads in the polls. He advocates for Amendment 2, which would give the governor power to appoint appellate court judges, and Amendment 1, which would allow greater restrictions on abortion. Other articles discuss Tennessee's preparations for Ebola, the state's high unemployment rate, charitable giving levels in various Tennessee cities, and Sen. Lamar Alexander defending his position on Common Core while his opponent Gordon Ball launches his first negative TV ad against Alexander.
Gov. Bill Haslam and other Tennessee state leaders are scheduled to speak to reporters about their legislative priorities for the year at the annual planning session hosted by the Associated Press and Tennessee Press Association. Topics will include Medicaid expansion, recent court rulings on releasing DCS records, and polling results. Haslam is unsure whether he will veto a controversial "guns-in-parking lots" bill that does not exempt schools and colleges. The interim commissioner of the Department of Children's Services, Jim Henry, vows to address problems at the agency and meet with advocates.
Kirk Jowers, director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics at the University of Utah, spoke to the Capitol Club and members of the Salt Lake Chamber Board of Governors about the pros and cons of Utah's caucus system.
This document discusses proposals in Congress to reform mandatory minimum sentencing for non-violent drug crimes. It analyzes bills introduced since 2010 that aim to reduce mandatory minimums and the motivations of their sponsors. It finds that sponsors tend to come from states that spend the most on corrections and that Democrats are generally more supportive than Republicans. States with high incarceration costs saw more representatives back reform in order to lower prison populations and reduce fiscal burdens. The bipartisan support suggests representatives are motivated by both moral and budgetary concerns around mass incarceration.
Drug Charges and Penalties in TennesseeStan Bennett
If you find yourself facing charges for one (or more) of Tennessee’s drug laws it is imperative that you take the matter seriously given the numerous judicial and non-judicial consequences of a conviction. Learn more about drug charges and penalties in Tennessee in this presentation.
PSM presented a special webinar for families affected by counterfeits and fentanyl. Learn about opportunities to make your voice heard. You can watch the presentation at https://youtu.be/FmBv3Bb7ZHI
The Virginia General Assembly unanimously appointed Judge D. Arthur Kelsey to the state Supreme Court. The Senate committee approved a bill on redistricting and another allowing a two-term governor. Gay rights advocates and lawmakers introduced over 20 bills on discrimination protections and conversion therapy, but Republicans remain opposed. Both parties supported bills to address the heroin epidemic, including expanding access to Naloxone and holding dealers responsible for overdoses. The House and Senate confirmed Martha Ketron as a judge despite Democratic abstentions due to her father's controversial resignation from the Senate last year.
Tim Minotas Federal Drug Mandatory Minimum Sentences Final PaperTimothy Minotas
This document discusses federal mandatory minimum sentences for drug offenses. It begins by explaining that in the 1980s, Congress passed laws requiring minimum prison terms for drug crimes to deter drug trafficking. However, these laws have led to overcrowded prisons filled with nonviolent, low-level drug offenders, costing taxpayers billions annually. The document then evaluates alternatives to reform these laws, including repealing mandatory minimums, expanding the safety valve exception, and applying sentencing reforms retroactively. It analyzes evidence on the impacts of these policy changes in various states, finding reductions in incarceration rates and costs without increases in crime.
Gov. Bill Haslam and other Tennessee state leaders are scheduled to speak to reporters about their legislative priorities for the year at the annual planning session hosted by the Associated Press and Tennessee Press Association. Topics will include Medicaid expansion, recent court rulings on releasing DCS records, and polling results. Haslam is unsure whether he will veto a controversial "guns-in-parking lots" bill that does not exempt schools and colleges. The interim commissioner of the Department of Children's Services, Jim Henry, vows to address problems at the agency and meet with advocates.
Kirk Jowers, director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics at the University of Utah, spoke to the Capitol Club and members of the Salt Lake Chamber Board of Governors about the pros and cons of Utah's caucus system.
This document discusses proposals in Congress to reform mandatory minimum sentencing for non-violent drug crimes. It analyzes bills introduced since 2010 that aim to reduce mandatory minimums and the motivations of their sponsors. It finds that sponsors tend to come from states that spend the most on corrections and that Democrats are generally more supportive than Republicans. States with high incarceration costs saw more representatives back reform in order to lower prison populations and reduce fiscal burdens. The bipartisan support suggests representatives are motivated by both moral and budgetary concerns around mass incarceration.
Drug Charges and Penalties in TennesseeStan Bennett
If you find yourself facing charges for one (or more) of Tennessee’s drug laws it is imperative that you take the matter seriously given the numerous judicial and non-judicial consequences of a conviction. Learn more about drug charges and penalties in Tennessee in this presentation.
PSM presented a special webinar for families affected by counterfeits and fentanyl. Learn about opportunities to make your voice heard. You can watch the presentation at https://youtu.be/FmBv3Bb7ZHI
The Virginia General Assembly unanimously appointed Judge D. Arthur Kelsey to the state Supreme Court. The Senate committee approved a bill on redistricting and another allowing a two-term governor. Gay rights advocates and lawmakers introduced over 20 bills on discrimination protections and conversion therapy, but Republicans remain opposed. Both parties supported bills to address the heroin epidemic, including expanding access to Naloxone and holding dealers responsible for overdoses. The House and Senate confirmed Martha Ketron as a judge despite Democratic abstentions due to her father's controversial resignation from the Senate last year.
Tim Minotas Federal Drug Mandatory Minimum Sentences Final PaperTimothy Minotas
This document discusses federal mandatory minimum sentences for drug offenses. It begins by explaining that in the 1980s, Congress passed laws requiring minimum prison terms for drug crimes to deter drug trafficking. However, these laws have led to overcrowded prisons filled with nonviolent, low-level drug offenders, costing taxpayers billions annually. The document then evaluates alternatives to reform these laws, including repealing mandatory minimums, expanding the safety valve exception, and applying sentencing reforms retroactively. It analyzes evidence on the impacts of these policy changes in various states, finding reductions in incarceration rates and costs without increases in crime.
This document outlines key concepts related to US campaign finance, including open and closed primaries, soft and hard money, and negative campaigning. It then discusses the history of campaign finance reform in the US, including the Federal Election Campaign Act of 1974 that set spending limits and disclosure rules in response to Watergate, but was weakened over time. The Bipartisan Campaign Reform Act of 2002 further reformed rules around soft money and issue ads, but new groups like 527s still spent millions in elections.
This monograph was written for Wagner College's Hugh L. Carey Institute for Government Reform in April 2020 by Bradley Tusk, founder and CEO of Tusk Holdings, and Aileen Kim, Mobile Voting Project Leader, Tusk Philanthropies.
The Office of Intergovernmental and Public Liaison newsletter from June 2008 highlights:
- Attorney General Mukasey visited New Orleans and reaffirmed DOJ's commitment to rebuilding the city's justice system after Hurricane Katrina.
- AG Mukasey honored fallen law enforcement heroes during National Police Week.
- DOJ welcomed McGruff the Crime Dog and announced 43 new prosecutors to combat technology-facilitated child sexual exploitation crimes.
- AG Mukasey commemorated National Missing Children's Day and urged international cooperation to curb methamphetamine production.
This document provides an outline of key concepts related to US presidential elections, including primaries, caucuses, and campaign financing. It discusses the multi-stage process of electing the president from pre-primaries over a year before elections to the electoral college vote and inauguration. Notably, it outlines how the pre-primary period has increased in importance, with front-runners often being determined over a year before the actual primaries begin.
The document discusses the Texas court system and judicial process. It describes the different levels of courts in Texas including local trial courts, county courts, district courts, courts of appeal, and highest state courts. It explains that local trial courts hear cases involving smaller civil claims and criminal misdemeanors, while district courts serve as primary trial courts. The judicial decision-making process involves jury or bench trials, appeals, and can be influenced by money and politics. The document also outlines the roles of grand and petit juries, types of crimes and punishments in Texas law, and ways politics have impacted the state judiciary's role in policymaking.
Virginia will hold statewide elections on November 7th, 2017 to elect a new governor, lieutenant governor, and House of Delegates members. The governor's race is highly contested between Democrat Ralph Northam and Republican Ed Gillespie. Northam currently leads in polls as the incumbent lieutenant governor. Justin Fairfax and Jill Holtzman Vogel are competing for lieutenant governor. Two incumbent delegates, Democrat David Toscano and Republican Bill Howell, are also running for reelection. New Jersey will also hold a competitive gubernatorial election on November 7th between Democrat Phil Murphy and Republican Kim Guadagno to replace term-limited Governor Chris Christie. Recent polls show Murphy with a significant lead over Guadagno and other candidates
The document summarizes discussions from a House-Senate conference on the Comprehensive Addiction and Recovery Act (CARA) legislation to address the opioid epidemic. Democrats pushed for funding to be included but Republicans highlighted recent funding increases. Amendments were considered and some passed both chambers while others only passed the Senate. Democrats' amendments to add funding were not accepted. The final conference report was signed by Republican conferees and will address efforts to curb the growing opioid crisis.
This document provides information about laws and issues related to election integrity in the United States. It discusses the Help America Vote Act of 2002, which mandated upgrades to voting processes nationwide in response to the 2000 election controversy. It also discusses provisions related to provisional ballots and voter registration requirements under the National Voter Registration Act. The document notes debates around universal voter registration and voter identification laws, with some advocating for automatically registering all eligible voters and others supporting voter ID laws in states. The goal is to educate citizens on these topics to empower grassroots efforts to ensure fair and proper election administration.
A2 G&P the electoral college and how it worksOliver Pratten
This document provides an overview of the US Electoral College system. It describes how electors are chosen and allocated to each state based on representatives. It explains that electors vote for president and vice president, and the candidates who receive an absolute majority of electoral votes win. If no candidate achieves a majority, the House of Representatives and Senate decide the winner. The document outlines arguments both for and against the Electoral College system.
Reaction to the Supreme Court’s Campaign Finance Decisionhallowedblasphe76
The Supreme Court struck down overall limits on campaign contributions, changing the role of money in politics. Reaction was mixed, with Republicans supporting the decision as a free speech issue, while Democrats warned it would increase the influence of wealthy donors. Critics said it could lead to evasion of individual contribution limits and a "pay-to-play" system in Washington.
Negotiations over the fiscal cliff continued this week with no agreement. The White House offered a proposal including $1.6 trillion in tax increases and $400 billion in entitlement cuts, but Republicans rejected it. Meanwhile, the House passed a bill to increase visas for skilled immigrants, but the White House did not support the narrow scope. At the UN, Palestine was recognized as a non-member observer state over U.S. objections. In Egypt, an Islamist-dominated assembly approved a constitution without opposition input.
This document summarizes the electoral process in the United States. It discusses the nomination process, which narrows the field of candidates for office through caucuses, conventions, direct primaries, or self-announcement. It also covers the administration of elections, including when they are held, absentee/early voting, and the "coat-tail effect" where strong candidates help their party's other candidates. The document also discusses casting ballots, including the history of reforms and issues that arose in the 2000 Florida recount between Bush and Gore.
CO Election Integrity Presentation to RSSC Jan 3 2015Jennifer Raiffie
This document summarizes concerns about Colorado's election system and proposes reforms. It notes issues like lack of enforcement of election laws, an ineffective complaint process, lack of transparency, ballot security problems, and restricted access for election watchers and canvass boards. It proposes solutions like a citizen election oversight committee, an election court, mandated transparency web portals, stronger laws around voter eligibility verification and signature matching, and expanded rights for judges, watchers, and canvass boards. The overall message is that Colorado's election system has integrity problems and needs reform to citizen oversight and transparency.
The document discusses the history of voting rights and political participation in Texas. It describes how, before the Civil War, slaves had no voting rights, and after the Civil War black men gained voting rights which were then restricted when Democrats regained control. It also discusses how women gained the right to vote in 1920 and how the white primary, poll tax, and other measures were used to disenfranchise black and minority voters until being struck down by the courts. The document also outlines current voter registration and election processes in Texas including qualifications, types of elections, and the challenges of campaigning statewide.
This document provides an overview of key concepts related to US national party conventions, including:
1) The formal functions of conventions are to choose presidential candidates, vice presidential candidates, and decide party platforms, but these functions have been lost as candidates are now chosen in primaries and caucuses.
2) The informal, but important, functions of conventions now are to promote party unity, enthuse party members, and enthuse ordinary voters in the lead up to the general election.
3) While the formal functions have been lost, conventions still serve important purposes through their ability to rally support and motivate different groups in the run up to the November election.
A review in reverse chronological order of the global trends and major events in drug policy reform in 2013, updated on a regular basis.
2012 was a pivotal year for drug policy reform, and as we move into 2013, the momentum is accelerating. 2013 should deliver on the promises of 2012. This is a valuable resource for all those interested in drug policy. Make sure to share with your friends and on social networks.
More details on http://www.world-war-d.com/
The document provides biographical and career information on several members of the United States Congress, including senators and representatives from Texas, leaders in the Senate and House of Representatives, and notes on current events regarding healthcare reform and animal rights protests by PETA. Key figures mentioned include Senators John Cornyn and Kay Bailey Hutchison of Texas, Senate leaders Harry Reid, Mitch McConnell, and Richard Durbin, and House Speaker Nancy Pelosi.
legalizing marijuana and extension resubmitted 11 17 14Kathryn Dodge
The document discusses the growing dilemma of marijuana legalization for state Cooperative Extension services. As more states legalize medical and recreational marijuana, Extension agents have received many questions about growing marijuana. However, marijuana remains illegal under federal law, placing Extension in a difficult situation of supporting state law while not violating federal law. The legal framework of federal preemption is outlined, noting state laws can coexist with federal ones unless directly in conflict. This leaves individuals still at risk of federal prosecution for marijuana-related activities.
This certificate acknowledges that Fernando Escobar successfully completed a 0.5 continuing education course on Understanding Sexual Harassment on October 7, 2015. The course was administered by Pryor Learning Solutions and qualifies for 0.05 continuing education units in accordance with national guidelines.
Healthy Pharmacy offers various asthma and respiratory products at affordable prices. The website provides information on medications like Ventolin, Proventil, and Flovent, as well as their uses, side effects, and coupons. Customers can purchase these products online or learn more about treating conditions like asthma.
This document outlines key concepts related to US campaign finance, including open and closed primaries, soft and hard money, and negative campaigning. It then discusses the history of campaign finance reform in the US, including the Federal Election Campaign Act of 1974 that set spending limits and disclosure rules in response to Watergate, but was weakened over time. The Bipartisan Campaign Reform Act of 2002 further reformed rules around soft money and issue ads, but new groups like 527s still spent millions in elections.
This monograph was written for Wagner College's Hugh L. Carey Institute for Government Reform in April 2020 by Bradley Tusk, founder and CEO of Tusk Holdings, and Aileen Kim, Mobile Voting Project Leader, Tusk Philanthropies.
The Office of Intergovernmental and Public Liaison newsletter from June 2008 highlights:
- Attorney General Mukasey visited New Orleans and reaffirmed DOJ's commitment to rebuilding the city's justice system after Hurricane Katrina.
- AG Mukasey honored fallen law enforcement heroes during National Police Week.
- DOJ welcomed McGruff the Crime Dog and announced 43 new prosecutors to combat technology-facilitated child sexual exploitation crimes.
- AG Mukasey commemorated National Missing Children's Day and urged international cooperation to curb methamphetamine production.
This document provides an outline of key concepts related to US presidential elections, including primaries, caucuses, and campaign financing. It discusses the multi-stage process of electing the president from pre-primaries over a year before elections to the electoral college vote and inauguration. Notably, it outlines how the pre-primary period has increased in importance, with front-runners often being determined over a year before the actual primaries begin.
The document discusses the Texas court system and judicial process. It describes the different levels of courts in Texas including local trial courts, county courts, district courts, courts of appeal, and highest state courts. It explains that local trial courts hear cases involving smaller civil claims and criminal misdemeanors, while district courts serve as primary trial courts. The judicial decision-making process involves jury or bench trials, appeals, and can be influenced by money and politics. The document also outlines the roles of grand and petit juries, types of crimes and punishments in Texas law, and ways politics have impacted the state judiciary's role in policymaking.
Virginia will hold statewide elections on November 7th, 2017 to elect a new governor, lieutenant governor, and House of Delegates members. The governor's race is highly contested between Democrat Ralph Northam and Republican Ed Gillespie. Northam currently leads in polls as the incumbent lieutenant governor. Justin Fairfax and Jill Holtzman Vogel are competing for lieutenant governor. Two incumbent delegates, Democrat David Toscano and Republican Bill Howell, are also running for reelection. New Jersey will also hold a competitive gubernatorial election on November 7th between Democrat Phil Murphy and Republican Kim Guadagno to replace term-limited Governor Chris Christie. Recent polls show Murphy with a significant lead over Guadagno and other candidates
The document summarizes discussions from a House-Senate conference on the Comprehensive Addiction and Recovery Act (CARA) legislation to address the opioid epidemic. Democrats pushed for funding to be included but Republicans highlighted recent funding increases. Amendments were considered and some passed both chambers while others only passed the Senate. Democrats' amendments to add funding were not accepted. The final conference report was signed by Republican conferees and will address efforts to curb the growing opioid crisis.
This document provides information about laws and issues related to election integrity in the United States. It discusses the Help America Vote Act of 2002, which mandated upgrades to voting processes nationwide in response to the 2000 election controversy. It also discusses provisions related to provisional ballots and voter registration requirements under the National Voter Registration Act. The document notes debates around universal voter registration and voter identification laws, with some advocating for automatically registering all eligible voters and others supporting voter ID laws in states. The goal is to educate citizens on these topics to empower grassroots efforts to ensure fair and proper election administration.
A2 G&P the electoral college and how it worksOliver Pratten
This document provides an overview of the US Electoral College system. It describes how electors are chosen and allocated to each state based on representatives. It explains that electors vote for president and vice president, and the candidates who receive an absolute majority of electoral votes win. If no candidate achieves a majority, the House of Representatives and Senate decide the winner. The document outlines arguments both for and against the Electoral College system.
Reaction to the Supreme Court’s Campaign Finance Decisionhallowedblasphe76
The Supreme Court struck down overall limits on campaign contributions, changing the role of money in politics. Reaction was mixed, with Republicans supporting the decision as a free speech issue, while Democrats warned it would increase the influence of wealthy donors. Critics said it could lead to evasion of individual contribution limits and a "pay-to-play" system in Washington.
Negotiations over the fiscal cliff continued this week with no agreement. The White House offered a proposal including $1.6 trillion in tax increases and $400 billion in entitlement cuts, but Republicans rejected it. Meanwhile, the House passed a bill to increase visas for skilled immigrants, but the White House did not support the narrow scope. At the UN, Palestine was recognized as a non-member observer state over U.S. objections. In Egypt, an Islamist-dominated assembly approved a constitution without opposition input.
This document summarizes the electoral process in the United States. It discusses the nomination process, which narrows the field of candidates for office through caucuses, conventions, direct primaries, or self-announcement. It also covers the administration of elections, including when they are held, absentee/early voting, and the "coat-tail effect" where strong candidates help their party's other candidates. The document also discusses casting ballots, including the history of reforms and issues that arose in the 2000 Florida recount between Bush and Gore.
CO Election Integrity Presentation to RSSC Jan 3 2015Jennifer Raiffie
This document summarizes concerns about Colorado's election system and proposes reforms. It notes issues like lack of enforcement of election laws, an ineffective complaint process, lack of transparency, ballot security problems, and restricted access for election watchers and canvass boards. It proposes solutions like a citizen election oversight committee, an election court, mandated transparency web portals, stronger laws around voter eligibility verification and signature matching, and expanded rights for judges, watchers, and canvass boards. The overall message is that Colorado's election system has integrity problems and needs reform to citizen oversight and transparency.
The document discusses the history of voting rights and political participation in Texas. It describes how, before the Civil War, slaves had no voting rights, and after the Civil War black men gained voting rights which were then restricted when Democrats regained control. It also discusses how women gained the right to vote in 1920 and how the white primary, poll tax, and other measures were used to disenfranchise black and minority voters until being struck down by the courts. The document also outlines current voter registration and election processes in Texas including qualifications, types of elections, and the challenges of campaigning statewide.
This document provides an overview of key concepts related to US national party conventions, including:
1) The formal functions of conventions are to choose presidential candidates, vice presidential candidates, and decide party platforms, but these functions have been lost as candidates are now chosen in primaries and caucuses.
2) The informal, but important, functions of conventions now are to promote party unity, enthuse party members, and enthuse ordinary voters in the lead up to the general election.
3) While the formal functions have been lost, conventions still serve important purposes through their ability to rally support and motivate different groups in the run up to the November election.
A review in reverse chronological order of the global trends and major events in drug policy reform in 2013, updated on a regular basis.
2012 was a pivotal year for drug policy reform, and as we move into 2013, the momentum is accelerating. 2013 should deliver on the promises of 2012. This is a valuable resource for all those interested in drug policy. Make sure to share with your friends and on social networks.
More details on http://www.world-war-d.com/
The document provides biographical and career information on several members of the United States Congress, including senators and representatives from Texas, leaders in the Senate and House of Representatives, and notes on current events regarding healthcare reform and animal rights protests by PETA. Key figures mentioned include Senators John Cornyn and Kay Bailey Hutchison of Texas, Senate leaders Harry Reid, Mitch McConnell, and Richard Durbin, and House Speaker Nancy Pelosi.
legalizing marijuana and extension resubmitted 11 17 14Kathryn Dodge
The document discusses the growing dilemma of marijuana legalization for state Cooperative Extension services. As more states legalize medical and recreational marijuana, Extension agents have received many questions about growing marijuana. However, marijuana remains illegal under federal law, placing Extension in a difficult situation of supporting state law while not violating federal law. The legal framework of federal preemption is outlined, noting state laws can coexist with federal ones unless directly in conflict. This leaves individuals still at risk of federal prosecution for marijuana-related activities.
This certificate acknowledges that Fernando Escobar successfully completed a 0.5 continuing education course on Understanding Sexual Harassment on October 7, 2015. The course was administered by Pryor Learning Solutions and qualifies for 0.05 continuing education units in accordance with national guidelines.
Healthy Pharmacy offers various asthma and respiratory products at affordable prices. The website provides information on medications like Ventolin, Proventil, and Flovent, as well as their uses, side effects, and coupons. Customers can purchase these products online or learn more about treating conditions like asthma.
El documento describe las tres regiones geográficas del Perú: la costa, la sierra y la selva. La costa limita con el océano Pacífico y tiene un clima cálido y húmedo con diversa flora y fauna. La sierra está atravesada por la cordillera de los Andes y su clima va de templado a frío, también con diversa flora y fauna. La selva es considerada el pulmón de la humanidad, está conformada por una sabana de vegetación y alberga muchas tribus nativas.
Visión ontoepistémica de la tesis doctoral (lunes rodriguez)lunes rodriguez
Para presentar la realidad de la gerencia cultural museística en Carabobo, es necesario enmarcar el concepto de formación y profesionalidad en el referente más amplio de los procesos de configuración de las nuevas profesiones.
The document discusses two projects that creatively develop small, leftover urban parcels in innovative ways:
1) The Micro-Liner project in San Francisco interlocks four units on a narrow, 350-foot long lot leftover from freeway demolition. Each two-story unit has outdoor terraces and a flex-room. Green building elements are incorporated.
2) The Livermore Village project in Livermore, CA converts a dead strip mall into a mixed-use neighborhood near transit. The development includes 281 housing units, retail, and artist space arranged around a series of courtyards. Flexible ground floor spaces and a park-lift parking system maximize density.
This document is a resume for Ana Medina Méndez that outlines her experience in marketing, sales, tourism, and e-commerce for the hospitality and tourism industry. She has over 3 years of experience working for various companies in roles managing accounts and online distribution on OTAs. Her resume also lists her education, technical skills, languages, and personal details.
Este documento presenta la agenda de actividades de la Arquidiócesis de Arequipa para el periodo del 1 al 26 de febrero de 2017, incluyendo cursos, misas, reuniones, retiros y otras actividades religiosas. Se proporcionan detalles como las fechas, lugares y horarios de cada evento, así como información de contacto para diversas parroquias, comunidades y organismos de la Arquidiócesis. Adicionalmente, se incluyen recordatorios sobre los horarios de misa en diferentes santuarios y parroqu
La alimentación es un aspecto importante de la vida social. El protocolo en el comedor incluye reglas básicas de cortesía como esperar a que todos tengan su comida servida antes de empezar a comer, no hablar con la boca llena, y usar los cubiertos correctamente.
1. The document discusses God's merciful judgement, focusing on the three phases of judgement: pre-second advent judgement, judgement during the 1000 years, and judgement at the close of the 1000 years.
2. It explains that the judgement began in 1844 in heaven and addresses many questions about who will judge, what the standards are, who our advocate is, and what the sources of evidence will be.
3. It provides assurance that God knows our hearts fully but that the judgement is for our benefit and that of others, to see God's justice and fairness in saving some and destroying others.
The document summarizes the student's results on a political parties quiz, their views on electoral success of the Democratic party in Texas and nationally, and an essential voting rights policy proposed by Texas Democrats. The student identified most closely with the Democratic party, agreeing with 83% of their issues which include inclusive views on immigration, healthcare, and abortion. While a Republican is likely to win in Texas in 2024, nationally the Democratic party has a better chance due to increasing diversity and generational changes. Finally, the student supports the Freedom to Vote Act proposed by Texas Democrats as an essential bill that would enable more diverse groups to elect representatives and establish greater equality in voting.
Press Release - Fair Elections Now Act JoshuaBarthel
The Fair Elections Now Act would establish a public financing system for congressional elections to reduce the influence of large donors. It would provide matching funds for small donations to candidates and introduce a tax credit for small donors. Proponents argue this would amplify smaller voices and make elections more fair and representative.
This document provides a summary of an AAFP Government Affairs Update presented in Dallas, TX on November 3, 2017. It introduces the AAFP Division of Government Relations staff and lists the AAFP's top issues for 2017, which include promoting physician payment reforms, defending gains in health insurance coverage, reducing administrative burdens, improving physician well-being, increasing the family physician workforce, and supporting population health improvement. Charts are included analyzing the current Congress and outlook for the 2018 Senate elections. The document reviews the status of key health care issues and upcoming deadlines under the Trump Administration.
The US government has shutdown due to Congress failing to agree on a budget by the September 30th deadline. This has resulted in nearly 1 million government employees and contractors being furloughed without pay. The main issue causing the shutdown is disagreement over the Affordable Care Act (Obamacare) between Republicans, who want to defund it, and Democrats, who want to allow it to continue as is for now. If a resolution is not reached soon, Republicans may use an upcoming vote on raising the debt ceiling as another opportunity to oppose Obamacare.
This document summarizes key aspects of political campaigns and elections in Texas. It discusses how campaigns have changed with new media like the internet and social media. It also outlines obstacles to voting that historically disenfranchised groups in Texas, such as literacy tests and poll taxes. Finally, it notes reforms to campaign finance and increasing diversity in elected offices in Texas in recent decades.
The document provides an overview and analysis of recent developments related to US health care reform following the 2010 elections. It discusses the impact of the elections on Congress and state legislatures, including implications for redistricting, governors, insurance commissioners, and the implementation of the Affordable Care Act. It also examines options for how Congress may attempt to combat the health reform law going forward and the need for brokers and agents to demonstrate their value in the changing system.
Supplementary data slides american governmentcompiled bcherry686017
This document provides summaries for multiple slides related to American Government. Each slide summarizes a source document on a different topic, such as the founding and constitution, federalism, civil rights, congress, and public opinion. The summaries are brief, between 1-3 sentences each, and highlight the key information or findings from the source document on that topic.
For all Assessments, the following general requirements hold.docxkeugene1
For all Assessments, the following general requirements hold:
(1) Assignments should be 2-3 double-spaced pages, with reasonable (12 pt.) font and reasonable (1 inch) margins.
(2) Citations to the material and in-text citations are required(MLA style).
(3) Assignments should be turned into eCampus (for the collection of artifacts for scoring).
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Assignment Three:
When You Win…SLO #3
1. Research the committees of the House ( http://www.house.state.tx.us/committees/ ) and state senate (http://www.senate.state.tx.us/committees.php )
2. Choose at least three (3) committees on which you’d serve, if elected.
a. Explain each committee’s functions.
b. Explain why your placement on these committees is justified. How does it serve your district’s needs? How does it emphasize your experiences/interests?
3. What kind of constituent service would you be likely to do? What kind of “home style” would you create (and how?) Most Texans do not know who their legislators are. How do you seek to solve that problem?
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Assignment Two:
The Campaign: SLO #2
How much does it cost to run for office in Texas?
https://www.texastribune.org/2017/03/01/heres-how-much-texas-candidates-spent-vote-general-election/
How will you raise money? (read this handy info from the Texas Democratic Party before you violate any campaign finance laws: https://www.txdemocrats.org/act/run-for-office )
Name interest groups that will support/oppose you? Go to https://votesmart.org/interest-groups/TX/#.WXjT4ojyuUk and identify two (2) interest groups that you think will support your campaign, and two (2) who will oppose your campaign. Explain why? (referring to your platform).
What’s your SLOGAN?
Design a campaign sign
How do you get out the vote? Given your issue stands, what voter groups do you need to target? (refer back to the district analyses documents on your current legislator’s homepage
Assignment One:
Why not you? Why not now?
For this project, you will hypothetically be running for office. Choose whether you would like to run for the Texas House of Representatives OR the Texas State Senate. We will be doing the project in chunks, as we cover the material in class, so tasks may be assigned out of sequence.
Preparing to run: SLO #1
1. Know your district. Go to: http://www.fyi.legis.state.tx.us/Home.aspx, and discover the district number, and who represents you in the Texas house or state senate. Which political party is your state house/state senate representative affiliated with? (if you choose to run as a House or Senate representative, check the district that you want to run for.)
2. Go to your current representative’s page, and look at the district analysis documents.
1. What does your district look like (in terms of population, age, education, employment, election results)?
2. What issues arise based on the district’s demographics (this will help you think about your platform)
3. Is your district gerrymandered? http://www.fyi.legis.state.tx.us/Info.as.
The document discusses four proposed amendments to the Tennessee state constitution that will be voted on in November 2014. It provides background information and arguments for and against each amendment. Amendment 1 concerns abortion rights and would eliminate privacy rights related to abortion decisions. Amendment 2 deals with judicial selection and confirmation. Amendment 3 would prohibit an income tax. Amendment 4 would allow certain veterans organizations to hold annual fundraising lotteries like other non-profit groups. The Coalition for Organizational Protection of People and Equal Rights opposes all four amendments.
The document discusses the dominance of wealthy interests in politics undermining middle-class views. It proposes a constitutional amendment for public funding of elections to address this issue. It would prohibit private contributions and expenditures to political campaigns, with campaigns receiving only public funds. The amendment could be proposed through a joint congressional resolution or citizen ballot initiatives in states allowing them. If approved by Congress and ratified by 38 states, it would become a constitutional amendment.
Here are a few points we could discuss about Representative Peter DeFazio's 94% party unity score in 2013:
- A score of 94% indicates that DeFazio voted with the Democratic party position on issues the vast majority of the time, but not always. This shows that while he is largely loyal to his party, he is still willing to break from the party on some occasions.
- A high party unity score is generally expected for representatives from strongly partisan districts. DeFazio represents Oregon's 4th district, which has consistently voted Democratic in recent presidential elections. His high score likely reflects responsiveness to his liberal-leaning constituency.
- However, a score below 100% also demonstrates that De
Can Democrats change the politics of health care?childlikeegg1000
The passage discusses the debate around the Affordable Care Act (ACA) between Democrats and Republicans. While 7 million have now signed up under the ACA, Republicans still want a full repeal. Democrats argue that repeal is unrealistic and want to modify the law instead. However, Democrats are divided on whether to fully embrace the law or propose changes, and have not agreed on specific changes. Support for the law has increased slightly but remains divided along party lines. The politics of healthcare could shift by the November election depending on if Democrats can motivate supporters as much as Republicans motivate opponents.
In regards to the role of secretary, I have kept a documented reco.docxbradburgess22840
The secretary has kept organized logs of team discussions, documenting key points to keep members informed if absent. The role is important for maintaining a record of discussions and allowing the team to refer back to previous meetings. The secretary will continue documenting meetings and communicating with members to ensure accurate logs.
The document discusses conservative Republican views on the 2010 DREAM Act, which proposed pathways to citizenship for some illegal immigrants. Republicans viewed it as amnesty that would encourage more illegal immigration and take opportunities from American students. While over half of Americans supported it, it failed due to Republican opposition in the Senate. Republicans generally aim to strengthen border security before legalizing undocumented immigrants.
The document contains summaries of several polls of Trump voters on various policy issues. According to the polls:
- Trump voters favor increased federal spending on issues like immigration enforcement, the military, and infrastructure over cuts to programs like foreign aid and welfare. They also support maintaining spending on areas like the environment, healthcare, and education.
- A majority of Trump voters support action on climate change, environmental protection, and renewable energy over pulling out of the Paris Agreement or reducing regulations. However, many also support expanding fossil fuel production.
- Around half of Trump voters believe it should be easier for public figures to sue news media for unfavorable coverage, and support cuts to federal funding for public media.
BAKER DONELSON'S BUSINESS & FINANCIAL INTERESTS IN PRIVATE PRISONSVogelDenise
17 USC § 107 Limitations on Exclusive Rights – FAIR USE
In 2016, while there were many that asked Community Activist Vogel Denise Newsome to run for MAYOR and a few that asked why doesn’t she run for the PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES, Newsome advised that she would NOT be a part of the United States’ DESPOTISM Government Regime and how she was EDUCATED WELL at a Historical Black College/University – FLORIDA A&M University!
We publish this document in SUPPORT of EVIDENCE EXPOSING the United States’ DESPOTISM “Corporate” Government Regime’s WHITE Jews/Zionists/Supremacists and the United States of America’s Legal Counsel (as Baker Donelson Bearman Caldwell & Berkowitz) FINANCIAL INTERESTS/CONTRIBUTIONS and CONNECTIONS – Personal and Business – to the PRIVATE PRISON INDUSTRY!
Information CRITICAL to the ESTABLISHMENT of the PRIMA FACIE Requirements in addressing WHITE-COLLAR Crimes, etc.
The reason why many may have missed such information regarding Baker Donelson Bearman Caldwell & Berkowitz, is because as a WHITE Jewish/Zionist/Supremacist CONTROLLED Law Firm, it has learned to WEAR “TWO FACES” and PLAY BOTH SIDES for purposes of COVERING UP/HIDING its TERRORIST/RACIST Acts from the Public/World as it SO OFTEN “FRAME” Innocent People for their WHITE Jewish/Zionist/Supremacists’ “DOMESTIC” and “INTERNATIONAL/FOREIGN” Terrorist Attacks!
In other words, the Law Firm of Baker Donelson Bearman Caldwell & Berkowitz and its Attorneys/Lawyers MISREPRESENT themselves to the PUBLIC/WORLD as being Advocates for Civil Rights/Human Rights/Equality, etc. WHEN ACTUALLY this Law Firm and its Lawyers/Attorneys are WHITE SUPREMACISTS and SHIELD/HIDE their Terrorist and Racist Agenda AGAINST Blacks/African-Americans/People-Of-Color and Nations-Of-Color from the PUBLIC/WORLD!
SCAMS which INCLUDE representing Prisoners in Legal matters and then CONTRIBUTING and ENGAGING in CRIMINAL Acts that adversely TARGET Blacks/African-Americans/People-Of-Color through their “13th Amendment Scam” and “SCHOOL-TO-PRISON” Scams, etc.
With PEACE and LOVE,
Vogel Denise Newsome – Community Activist
Post Office Box 31265 – Jackson, MS 39286
PHONE: (513) 680-2922
Please feel free to DONATE to SUPPORT The WORK:
USA: www.Cash.me/$VogelDeniseNewsome
INTERNATIONAL: https://donorbox.org/community-activist-vogel-denise-newsome
The document discusses the legislative branch of the US government, known as Congress. It explains that Congress is made up of two chambers - the House of Representatives and the Senate. Members of both chambers are elected to represent different constituencies. The qualifications for members and the roles of each chamber are established in the US Constitution to ensure representation of citizens.
National Health Care Reform: The Proposals and the Politicssoder145
Presentation by Elizabeth Lukanen at the University of Minnesota Academic Health Center's Student Leadership Summit in Minneapolis, MN, December 5, 2009.
The document discusses the debate around immigration reform in the United States. It provides background on illegal immigration and discusses proposals like the DREAM Act to provide paths to citizenship. The main topic is President Obama's planned executive action to reform immigration policy by expanding protections from deportation and work permits to millions of undocumented immigrants, including parents of citizens. Critics argue this oversteps executive authority and could encourage more illegal immigration.
Stop Funding Abortion using Federal Healthcare Reform dadyrtb
The document is a call to action to contact Senators and House Representatives to oppose the use of federal funding for abortion in healthcare reform legislation. It provides links and sample messages to send emails to Senators from Georgia and House Representatives. It encourages sharing the information widely to help stop government funding of abortion.
Stop Funding Abortion using Federal Healthcare Reform
100714 news clips
1. TUESDAY, OCTOBER 7, 2014
Editorial: Haslam moving state in right direction (Knoxville News-Sentinel)
Voters in this fall's general election should mark their gubernatorial ballots for incumbent Republican Bill Haslam,
and not just because he only faces token opposition. Haslam has taken a pragmatic, businesslike approach to the
office; instituted K-12 education reform; launched an ambitious effort to raise the number of Tennesseans with
post-secondary degrees and certifications; and adeptly managed a state budget through a sluggish economic
recovery that has stagnated revenues. The former mayor of Knoxville, Haslam faces Democrat Charles V. "Charlie"
Brown, a retiree from Oakdale whose primary victory many have credited to the fact that his name appeared first
on the ballot. Other challengers are Constitution Party nominee Shaun Crowell, Green Party nominee Isa Infante
and Independent candidates Steven Damon Coburn, John Jay Hooker and Datniel T. Lewis. As an incumbent with
a solid record, deep pockets and a statewide electorate that has leaned toward the GOP in recent years, Haslam
will have no problem dispatching the opposition. The only question will be his margin of victory.
http://www.knoxnews.com/opinion/editorials/editorial-haslam-moving-state-in-right-direction_69956396
(SUBSCRIPTION)
Larry Martin: TennCare leadership works for enrollees, taxpayers
(Tennessean)
The current TennCare team led by Darin Gordon has a proven track record of turning around what had been called
a “beleaguered program.” Program costs were growing at over 10 percent per year; Darin and his team have
maintained an average growth rate of less than 3 percent over the past 10 years, half the national average. Under
Darin’s leadership, TennCare has shown improvement in 81 percent of its quality measures and has maintained
the highest enrollee satisfaction levels in 20 years (reaching over 95 percent twice in the past four years.) They’ve
taken a program with 39 audit findings per year, many of which were repeat findings, to one that has averaged less
than five annually over the past 10 years. They have worked hard to end several decades-old lawsuits brought by
the Tennessee Justice Center, saving well over $1 billion for Tennessee taxpayers. They now have a new
challenge: implementing significant changes required by the Affordable Care Act. There is no doubt that actions
taken by TennCare have assured significant access for the overwhelming majority of people seeking coverage.
That is evidenced by the third-highest new enrollment in the past 20 years, well above the national average for
non-expansion states like Tennessee. http://www.tennessean.com/story/opinion/2014/10/07/tenncare-leadership-
works-enrollees-taxpayers/16824259/ (SUBSCRIPTION)
Haslam campaigns in Memphis for Amendment 2 (Commercial
Appeal/Veazey)
If state constitutional Amendment 2 passes on Tennessee’s November ballot, it will chisel the governor’s power to
select appellate court judges into stone. That, Gov. Bill Haslam said in Memphis on Monday, is actually a pro-voter
move: Voters elect the governor, they elect the General Assembly who would confirm appointments and they vote
whether to retain the judges. “Voters would have a chance, really, to weigh in three times,” Haslam said following
an event at the Kroc Center, where he was joined by retired Supreme Court Justice George Brown in a largely
scripted panel discussion to advocate for passage of the amendment. Hal Rounds of Fayette County was among
the 100 or so in attendance. He clutched a package of black-and-white brochures in his hands that featured a
photo of Darth Vader and asked this question: “Who Will Choose Tennessee’s Top Judges? Tennessee Voters?
Or Lawyers, Politicians And Special Interests?”
http://www.commercialappeal.com/news/state/haslam-campaigns-in-memphis-for-amendment-2_33352471 (SUB)
How Amendment 2 would affect judicial selection (WREG- TV Memphis)
Gov. Bill Haslam and Judge George Brown spoke Monday at the Salvation Army Kroc Center about Amendment 2.
Amendment 2 would give the governor the power to appoint judges to the state Supreme Court or other state
2. appellate courts, but would require an additional step. Haslam said he believes this change would make a
confusing selection process more constitutional and defined. “After a governor names a nominee to an appellate
level, the legislature can approve or disapprove that. They have 60 days to do that. So that’s the one step that’s
being added,” he said. Under Amendment 2, an appointed judge would serve an eight-year term and could serve
another via retention election by voters. http://wreg.com/2014/10/06/how-amendment-2-would-affect-judicial-
selection/
Haslam Favors Abortion Amendment (Memphis Daily News)
Tennessee Gov. Bill Haslam said Monday, Oct. 6, he intends to vote for all four of the proposed amendments to
the state Constitution on the Nov. 4 ballot. Haslam commented during a stop in Memphis to campaign for the
amendment that would require approval from the Tennessee Legislature of appellate court judges nominated by
the governor. It would leave in place judicial retention elections. Haslam, asked specifically about his stand on
Amendment 1, which gives the Tennessee Legislature the ability to enact, amend or repeal statutes on abortion
including abortion in the event of rape or incest, said he favored it. “It really just puts this state’s laws to match what
the federal laws are,” Haslam said. “For me it’s about bringing those two back into balance and that’s why I’m in
favor of it.” Haslam and former Tennessee Supreme Court Justice George Brown of Memphis were featured during
the campaign stop at the Salvation Army’s Kroc Center at the Mid-South Fairgrounds.
http://www.memphisdailynews.com/news/2014/oct/7/haslam-favors-abortion-amendment/
Haslam questions high jobless rate in Tennessee (Associated Press)
Republican Gov. Bill Haslam is questioning why Tennessee's unemployment rate remains well above the national
level. The most recent national unemployment rate released Friday was 5.9 percent - the lowest level since July
2008, in the middle of the Great Recession. Meanwhile, Tennessee's jobless rate was 7.4 percent in August.
Haslam says Tennessee is among the top states adding new jobs and that the state is not adding a large number
of new claims for unemployment benefits. That's why the governor says "it's a little hard to understand" why
Tennessee has been unable to whittle away at the unemployment rate. Haslam says he has asked some
economists to look into the statistics to see if they can find an explanation for Tennessee's high unemployment
rate. http://www.knoxnews.com/news/state/haslam-questions-high-jobless-rate-in-tennessee_29381083 (SUB)
TDOT seeks input on Chattanooga's I-75/I- 24 split (Times Free-
Press/Brogdon)
State highway officials are calling on residents for input as they go through an environmental assessment of
changes to Tennessee's interstate gateway. But construction on the proposed $89 million retooling of the Interstate
75/I-24 interchange is not likely to start this year. A public information meeting is planned for the project Oct. 16 in
East Ridge. Tennessee Department of Transportation Project Manager Chester Sutherland said he hopes
residents will come out to hear about the status of the project -- and to share their ideas. Sutherland said TDOT
officials will have some information displays and have a question-and-answer session with residents. Officials will
go over the initial 2012 request for changes to the interstate, explain current environmental rules and findings from
a noise study. Sutherland said they will also explain the next steps in the development process. Afterward,
residents will be able to ask questions of staff directly or submit questions in writing for up to 21 days after the
meeting. But Sutherland cautioned that the meeting is mainly for public education. Designs for proposed changes
to the interstate junction have not been made, he said.
http://www.timesfreepress.com/news/2014/oct/07/tdot-seeks-input-on-split/?local (REGISTRATION)
Tennessee hospitals make Ebola preparations (Tennessean/Wilemon)
Tennessee medical officials are pushing protocols, hospitals are holding drills and emergency room staffs are
being trained to avoid the missteps that occurred at Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital, which failed to diagnose
and quarantine a man with Ebola. The preparations began weeks before the nation's first imported case from the
epidemic in West Africa was confirmed Tuesday. Officials with the Tennessee Department of Health conducted a
community outreach meeting with people of West African origin living in Nashville and have held strategy sessions
with hospital administrators. Vanderbilt University Medical Center held a drill last month. "We've sent out a lot of
stuff to our members, particularly working with emergency room doctors," said Craig Becker, president of the
Tennessee Hospital Association. "That's obviously where it would probably come through." The materials include a
Sept. 24-dated situation manual developed by the Tennessee Department of Health Emergency Preparedness
Program. It includes scenarios and how to deal with them as well as resource guides, including a basic checklist for
hospitals and instructions for putting on and removing personal protective equipment.
http://www.tennessean.com/story/news/health/2014/10/05/tennessee-hospitals-make-ebola-
2
3. preparations/16689365/ (SUBSCRIPTION)
Tennesseans stand out among the most generous givers (AP, Tenn/Crary,
Bliss)
As the wealthiest Americans give less to charity, poor and middle-income Americans have dug deeper into their
wallets — and Tennesseans stand out as some of the most generous. Those living in the Volunteer State donate
$44.50 to charity for every $1,000 they earn, according to an extensive analysis of IRS data conducted by the
Chronicle of Philanthropy. That made Tennessee the nation’s fourth-most-generous state behind Utah, Mississippi
and Alabama. Equally notable is the breakdown of top five most generous cities, which features Memphis (No. 2)
and Nashville (No. 5). Memphis residents give away 5.1 percent of their incomes, while those in Music City
disperse 3.9 percent of what they make to charity. Such benevolence is not surprising to those here connected with
the nonprofit community. “I think the charitable giving in this city is definitely exceptional,” said Chris McCarthy,
former president and CEO of the Nashville Area Habitat for Humanity and an activist for nonprofit organizations in
Nashville. “ http://www.tennessean.com/story/news/local/2014/10/06/tennesseans-stand-among-generous-
givers/16838103/ (SUBSCRIPTION)
Chattanoogans give 50 percent more to charity than U.S. average
(TFP/Flessner)
The average Chattanoogan gives away at least 50 percent more of his or her disposable income to charities and
religious groups than does the typical American. A new study of tax filings released Monday showed that
Chattanoogans, on average, donated $4,797 to churches or charities in 2012, swelling total giving in metro
Chattanooga that year to a record high of nearly $360 million. "Chattanooga is a generous town and continues with
a culture of giving from people of all income levels," said Pete Cooper, president of the Community Foundation of
Greater Chattanooga, one of a half-dozen major multimillion-dollar foundations in Chattanooga. "Among the
wealthy, there has long been a philosophy of charitable giving which helped establish some of the state's biggest
foundations here decades ago. But among low- and middle-income families there is also a commitment to giving
because I think our citizens recognize the needs around them and they understand where their gifts go and help
out." The United Way of Greater Chattanooga, which raises money to support more than 60 area programs, raised
a record $12.59 million last year and campaign organizers hope to do even better with their current fundraising
appeal. http://www.timesfreepress.com/news/2014/oct/07/chattanoogans-more-generouslocal-residents-give/?local
(REGISTRATION)
Alexander Again Defending Stance On Common Core (WPLN- Radio
Nashville)
Senator Lamar Alexander is again having to defend his ambiguous position on Common Core, an issue that has
morphed into a political landmine and a symbol of federal overreach, despite how the reading and math standards
were developed by a bipartisan coalition of governors. During the Republican primary, Tea Party candidate Joe
Carr continually blasted Alexander for not coming out against Common Core. Flipping the script, Alexander’s
campaign tried to used the Common Core issue against Carr in mailers sent out days before the election. Moving
into general election campaigning, Alexander has yet to move out of the shadow of Common Core. Alexander has
stood next to Governor Bill Haslam, a supporter of Common Core, as a show of solidarity for Tennessee’s use of
the standards. http://nashvillepublicradio.org/blog/2014/10/06/lamar-alexander-defending-stance-common-core-
time-democrat/
Sen. Alexander weighs in on ISIS, Ebola (WSMV- TV Nashville)
Sen. Lamar Alexander, R-Tennessee, weighed in Monday on some of the biggest issues facing America today.
With news of ISIS growing stronger and the Ebola virus now in the U.S., many citizens are concerned about what
the government plans to do about the two issues. Alexander said he believes the U.S. is in for the long haul with
the Islamic State. He said before the country heads to war, President Barack Obama needs to approach Congress
with a clear military plan. "I think we should be in Washington right now debating the plan the president proposes if
we're going to get involved in the Middle East again," Alexander said. Alexander also said he wants everyone who
comes to the U.S. from Ebola-infected countries to be screened for the virus. He added that he thinks the president
should appoint one person to take charge. http://www.wsmv.com/story/26719119/sen-alexander-weighs-in-on-isis-
ebola
Alexander, Ball launch TV ads in Tenn. Senate race (Associated
3
4. Press/Schelzig)
Democrat Gordon Ball and Republican incumbent Lamar Alexander are launching television ads criticizing each
other in the U.S. Senate race in Tennessee. In his first ad of the general election campaign, a stern Alexander
insists that a vote for his opponent would be "one more vote for Barack Obama's agenda." Ball's ad features old
footage of Alexander playing a piano, but the audio is an off-key version of the "Tennessee Waltz." The ad
suggests that voters are "tired of the same old song and dance." Alexander, who is seeking a third Senate term
was dismissive of the Ball ad in a statement released Monday afternoon. "He's butchering the Tennessee Waltz,"
Alexander said. "No telling what he'll try to do to Rocky Top." The Ball campaign noted that Rule No. 297 from
Alexander's book "Little Plaid Book" states: "Serve two terms and get out." "I guess he changed his tune on that
one," Ball said in a release. http://www.knoxnews.com/news/state/alexander-ball-launch-tv-ads-in-tenn-senate-
race_21215282 (REGISTRATION)
Gordon Ball TV ad says Lamar Alexander not in tune with voters
(TFP/Sher)
Democrat Gordon Ball's first TV ad in the general election charges U.S. Sen. Lamar Alexander is "out of tune" with
Tennesseans, and it features a piano-playing Alexander serenely pounding out a mangled version of the
"Tennessee Waltz." The campaign digitally altered a digital clip of Alexander's piano playing to make it sound as if
the two-term senator is striking sour notes to better illustrate its point. As Alexander, who often plays the piano in
political settings, plays on, a voiceover slams the two-term incumbent on various votes he's taken as jangled
chords fly. "More than ever Lamar Alexander is out of tune with the voters of Tennessee," the narrator says in the
ad, which began airing statewide on Monday. "He voted for Wall Street bailouts. He's opposed term limits.
http://www.timesfreepress.com/news/2014/oct/07/ball-ad-says-alexander-not-in-tune-with-voters/?local (REG)
Ball launches his first TV ad of his general election campaign (C.
Appeal/Locker)
Democrat Gordon Ball is airing his first television ad of his general election campaign for the U.S. Senate seat held
by Lamar Alexander, who announced his first TV ad on Friday. The Ball ad airing statewide opens with Alexander
playing “The Tennessee Waltz” on piano but with the music made off key by the ad makers to underscore the
voiceover that says: “More than ever, Lamar Alexander is out of tune with the voters of Tennessee.” The voiceover
continues: “He voted for Wall Street bailouts. He’s opposed term limits. And while everyday families are struggling,
he gives tax breaks to corporations that ship our jobs overseas. Tired of the same old song and dance?” The ad
shifts to images of Ball on the campaign trail, with the moderator saying Ball is “real, honest, in step with the values
of Tennessee. If you want to change the way Washington is run, then change the people who are running it.”
http://www.knoxnews.com/news/state/ball-launches-his-first-tv-ad-of-his-general-election-campaign-against-
alexander_16929621 (SUBSCRIPTION)
Cohen urges votes for Hooker in governor's race (Times Free- Press/Sher)
U.S. Rep. Steve Cohen, D-Tenn., is urging fellow Democrats to vote for independent John Jay Hooker in
governor's race over Democrats' little-known nominee, Charlie Brown, on Nov. 4. Cohen said Monday he fears that
otherwise few Democrats will be motivated to vote in the governor's race, featuring long-shot Brown's quixotic
quest to take on Republican Gov. Bill Haslam. And that's important, the Memphis congressman said, warning that if
there's a low turn-out in the governor's race, it will make it easier for pro-life proponents to win passage of
Amendment 1 because of the requirements on amending the Tennessee Constitution. "My main interest ... is a
hope this Amendment 1 will fail," Cohen said after his urging of Memphis Democrats to back Hooker was first
reported by the Memphis Flyer, an alternative newspaper. "I think it [Amendment 1] is a disgrace to our women,
and a disgrace to our physicians and a disgrace to our constitution."
http://www.timesfreepress.com/news/2014/oct/07/cohen-urges-votes-for-hooker-in-governors-race/?local (REG)
Future uncertain for Tennessee’s same- sex marriage ban
(Tennessean/Wadhwani)
Monday’s decision by the Supreme Court refusing to hear same-sex marriage challenges will eventually lead to 30
states where gays and lesbians can legally wed, but it’s unknown whether Tennessee will join them. Three couples
in Tennessee have challenged the state’s ban on gay marriage. All three couples legally married in other states
before moving to Tennessee and sued to have their marriages recognized here. A Nashville federal court ruled in
their favor, but the 6th Circuit Court of Appeals put that ruling on hold. In August the 6th Circuit heard the
Tennessee case, as well as challenges to same-sex marriage bans in Ohio, Kentucky and Michigan. But it has not
issued a ruling. The 6th Circuit is not bound by the Supreme Court decision because it applies to cases in other
4
5. jurisdictions, but an attorney for the three Tennessee couples said the move has sent a “strong message” to all
federal appeals courts weighing gay marriage bans. “The court’s decision sends a very strong message to other
courts considering this issue, including the 6th Circuit, that there is no reason to delay and no reason to perpetuate
the harms to families caused by state marriage bans,” said Shannon Minter, legal director for the San Francisco-
based National Center for Lesbian Rights, which is representing the Tennessee couples.
http://www.tennessean.com/story/news/local/2014/10/06/future-uncertain-tennessees-sex-marriage-ban/16810429/
(SUBSCRIPTION)
Tennessee couples still awaiting 6th Circuit decision (News-
Sentinel/Boehnke)
Questions mounted and anticipation swelled Monday surrounding exactly what will happen when the 6th Circuit
U.S. Court of Appeals issues a ruling in six same-sex marriage cases from four states, including Tennessee. A
decision is expected any day. "I thought our case was just going to be, well, one of many," said Val Tanco, a local
veterinarian and the named plaintiff in Tennessee's same-sex marriage case — Tanco v. Haslam. "I never
anticipated that we would stand out," she said. "Everybody has these cases now in pretty much every state, so I
just thought, well, OK, we'll be one more in the tide." That tide turned Monday when the U.S. Supreme Court left in
place lower court decisions validating unions in five other states across three circuits. With no dissension among
lower courts, Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg said recently there was no urgency for the country's highest court to
take on the issue. An outright denial to hear the cases, though, was unexpected.
http://www.knoxnews.com/news/local-news/tennessee-couples-still-awaiting-6th-circuit-decision_11147472 (SUB)
Supreme Court Announcement On Gay Marriage Won’t Change Much
(WPLN)
In a somewhat unexpected turn of events, the U.S. Supreme Court said Monday it wouldn’t weigh in on cases
looking at same-sex marriage bans from three federal appeals courts. That means that the lower courts’ ruling,
which struck down gay marriage bans, stands: Gay marriage is effectively legal in five more states, with more
expected to follow in the near future. Tennessee law, however, isn’t affected because the Sixth Circuit Court of
Appeals hasn’t yet made a decision on gay marriage bans. The U.S. Supreme Court didn’t give a reason for
passing on the gay marriage cases, but analysts say it’s likely because all circuit courts so far have come to the
same conclusion: that bans on same-sex marriage are unconstitutional. So what happens if the Sixth Circuit, which
is currently deliberating marriage laws in Tennessee and three other states, decides to uphold gay marriage bans?
“Well, that would change the landscape,” says Vanderbilt law professor Suzanna Sherry. “That would create a split
among the circuits. Once the Courts of Appeals aren’t in agreement anymore, that’s when you need the Supreme
Court to decide.” http://nashvillepublicradio.org/blog/2014/10/06/supreme-court-announcement-gay-marriage-
cases-wont-change-much-tennessee-yet/
Marriage ruling will impact 2016, not 2014, campaigns (USA Today)
Don't expect political fallout from the Supreme Court's action, or inaction, on same-sex marriage — at least not
before next year when presidential campaigns get fully into gear. In this fall's midterm elections, the issue isn't likely
to surge to prominence as a result of the court allowing to stand lower court rulings upholding gay marriage — even
in the closely contested Senate and governor's races in states immediately affected by court's actions. In
Wisconsin, Gov. Scott Walker, who had backed the state's ban on same-sex marriage struck down by the federal
court, said little about the issue Monday. "For us, It's over in Wisconsin,'' he said, according to the Milwaukee
Journal Sentinel. As for a possible constitutional amendment on the issue, Walker said only, "Others will have to
talk about the federal level.'' Walker is in a toss-up re-election contest against Democrat Mary Burke, who
applauded the Supreme Court's action. Republican pollster Kellyanne Conway called the action a "non-event'' for
the November elections. "Voters are focused on other issues in the homestretch, and all of the Democratic
candidates in hotly contested swing races are avoiding gay marriage almost as much as they are avoiding
President Obama,'' she said.
http://www.usatoday.com/story/news/politics/2014/10/06/same-sex-marriage-politics/16825549/
States Search for Ways to Cut Traffic Deaths (Stateline)
Back in 2008, South Carolina transportation officials were itching to do something innovative to curtail the number
of serious traffic crashes in their state. The federal government already had designated South Carolina as one of
the states with the highest proportion of traffic fatalities at intersections. So state highway safety officials began
working with their counterparts at the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) to come up with a new, system-wide
approach to tackling the problem. They ended up launching a project, with FHWA’s help, that used complex data
5
6. analysis to identify the most dangerous intersections statewide. Then they hired a private company to install
simple, low-cost fixes, such as larger signs and new pavement markings, at nearly 2,000 locations – the largest
such deployment any state had made. The preliminary results appear to show that those relatively simply fixes are
having a big impact. An early analysis of 458 of the intersections that were modified found a 22 percent reduction in
crashes overall. The federal government is helping about two dozen other states to use data-driven information to
determine which roads or intersections are the most deadly and to make them safer.
http://www.pewtrusts.org/en/research-and-analysis/blogs/stateline/2014/10/07/states-search-for-ways-to-cut-traffic-
deaths
TVA refuels oldest reactor (Chattanooga Times Free- Press/Flessner)
The Tennessee Valley Authority is refueling its oldest reactor this week. The Unit 1 reactor at TVA’s Browns Ferry
Nuclear Plant in Alabama was shut down late Friday for a scheduled refueling and maintenance outage. An
additional 850 TVA and contract workers are supplementing the site’s regular staff of almost 1,400 employees
during the outage. The project will involve more than 163,000 work-hours until the outage is completed later this
month. “The outage is a routine and carefully planned activity so fuel can be replaced and maintenance can be
safely performed on key equipment and systems,” said Keith Polson, Browns Ferry Plant site vice president. Unit 1
operated continuously for 254 days during its most recent fuel cycle. Nuclear reactors typically must be refueled
every 18 months. Browns Ferry Units 2 and 3 will both continue to safely operate during the outage. At full
capacity, Browns Ferry’s three units generate a combined 3,300 megawatts of electricity, which is 10 percent of
TVA’s total generation capacity and enough electricity to power 2 million homes.
http://www.timesfreepress.com/news/2014/oct/07/business-briefs-tva-refuels-oldest-reactor/?businesstnvalley
(REGISTRATION)
California: San Jose Election Tests Political Risk of Cutting Pensions
(Governing)
Local government isn’t what it once was in San Jose. In 2001, California’s third-largest city employed almost 7,500
full-time workers. After 10 consecutive years of spending cuts caused by budget deficits, the number is closer to
5,400. The public library system has lost more than a quarter of its staff, forcing branches to cut operations back
from six days a week to four. The parks department has closed all but 11 of its 54 community centers. Public safety
has taken a hit, too. The city has 300 fewer police officers and 200 fewer firefighters than a decade ago. The
obvious culprit is the Great Recession, which took its toll on city revenues. But in San Jose, the recession isn’t the
biggest fiscal problem. Pensions are. San Jose’s pension costs currently take up more than 20 percent of the city’s
general fund, up from 6 percent in 2001. (The national average for big cities is estimated at about 12 percent.) For
much of the last decade, San Jose’s pension deficit created a depressing cycle in which total city spending rose
each year despite annual service cuts. http://www.governing.com/topics/elections/gov-san-jose-election-
pensions.html
Pennsylvania: Health Costs Imposed on Teachers (Associated Press)
Philadelphia teachers vowed to fight a sudden move by the district Monday that cancels their union contract and
requires them to start paying health premiums of $55 to $140 a month. District leaders said there was nothing else
to cut after years of funding woes that have prompted nearly $1 billion in cuts that include the loss of 5,000
positions and the closing of 30 schools. Both Superintendent William R. Hite and the Philadelphia Federation of
Teachers president, Jerry Jordan, along with Mayor Michael Nutter, agreed that the problem lies in the state
funding formula for education. But Mr. Hite nonetheless backed Monday’s decision, saying the money would yield
more than $50 million a year. The announcement came at a brief, hastily called meeting of the School Reform
Commission. Mr. Jordan called the process cowardly. The health care change and other benefit cuts will start in
December. Mr. Jordan said a court challenge was likely.
http://www.nytimes.com/2014/10/07/us/pennsylvania-health-costs-imposed-on-teachers-.html?
ref=todayspaper&_r=0 (SUBSCRIPTION)
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7. OPINION
Editorial: Better training for future nurses (Jackson Sun)
Perhaps the Great Recession is truly ending. Our nation’s unemployment rate has fallen below 6 percent for the
first time in six years, and Jackson State Community College is realizing a dream nearly 20 years in the making.
Construction is under way for the college’s new nursing building — a $12 million project expected to improve the
school’s nursing program and bring greater enrollment at a time when Tennessee is encouraging more students to
attend community colleges. The lion’s share of funding for the project, $9 million, comes through state and federal
funding that Jackson State applied for 17 years ago. West Tennessee Healthcare has given more than $1.5 million
toward the project, with the remaining funds still being raised. A smart and generous move by West Tennessee
Healthcare, an investment of sorts. Jackson State’s nursing program began in 1990, and the college educates
more than half the direct employees of West Tennessee Healthcare and Jackson-Madison County General
Hospital. College president Bruce Blanding calls it a win-win relationship, with West Tennessee Healthcare
providing employment and Jackson State providing skilled employees.
http://www.jacksonsun.com/story/opinion/editorials/2014/10/06/better-training-future-nurses/16829901/ (SUB)
Guest columnists: Yes vote on amendment 3 ensures no state income tax
(TFP)
On Nov. 4, Tennesseans have the opportunity to cast their ballots in favor of a strong economic future. The
passage of Amendment 3 would ensure that the state legislature cannot, at any time, authorize or allow any state
or local tax on earned personal income. The importance of Amendment 3 cannot be overstated. Tennessee’s
economic growth owes much to its status as a no-income-tax state. While growth in high-tax states stagnates,
Tennessee continues to attract businesses large and small. Many Tennesseans may take the state’s friendly
economic climate for granted, but they should not: With some careful word-smithing, income-tax advocates could
craft legislation that would impose this harmful and anti-growth tax on all working individuals. To borrow a phrase
from West Tennesse state Sen. Brian Kelsey, R-Germantown, who has advocated tirelessly for Amendment 3,
passage of this initiative allows Tennesseans to say, “Not only do we not have an income tax, but we’ll never have
an income tax.” This promise is crucial to attracting individuals, ideas and income to the Volunteer State. As we
outline in our book “An Inquiry into the Nature and Causes of the Wealth of States,” income tax is a major factor in
the economic health of a state. http://www.timesfreepress.com/news/2014/oct/07/laffer-and-brown-yes-vote-
amendment-3-ensures-no-s/?opinioncolumns (REGISTRATION)
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