Dr Singh rules out having differences with Sonia Gandhi

NEW DELHI – The Prime Minister, Dr Manmohan Singh on Monday denied reports of him having a misunderstanding with Congress President Sonia Gandhi.

Addressing a press conference here on the completion of UPA II Government’s first year in office, Dr Singh said he [..] Read the original article: here.

Younger people should come forward to take the reins of the country: PM

NEW DELHI – The Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh on Monday said younger people must come forward and take over the reins of the country.

Addressing a press conference here on the completion of the UPA II Government’s first year in office, Dr Singh said: …. Original source  : Younger people should come forward to take the reins of the country: PM.

“I am privileged to have advice of Shrimati Sonia Gandhiji and my wife”: PM

NEW DELHI – The Prime Minister, Dr Manmohan Singh on Monday said he was in a privileged position to take advice from both his wife Gursharan Kaur and Congress President Sonia Gandhi.

He was addressing a question in this regard at a press conference on UPA …. Source  : “I am privileged to have advice of Shrimati Sonia Gandhiji and my wife”: PM.

No crisis in Malaysian Indian Congress, leaders tell PM

KUALA LUMPUR – There is no major crisis in the Malaysian Indian Congress, its senior leaders have assured Prime Minister Najib Tun Razak after a group of dissidents demanded that party chief S. Samy Vellu should retire early.

Human Resource Minister and MIC vice-president S. Subramaniam assured Razak, who heads the ruling Barisan Nasional (BN) of …. Read the original article  : No crisis in Malaysian Indian Congress, leaders tell PM.

BJP withdraws support, Jharkhand government in minority (Second Lead)

RANCHI – The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Monday withdrew support to the five-month-old Shibu Soren-led government in Jharkhand, reducing it to a minority and plunging the state into political uncertainty yet again.

“We have withdrawn support from the Shibu Soren government as the political uncertainty was lingering in the state for a long period of time,” …. Source  : BJP withdraws support, Jharkhand government in minority (Second Lead).

A year of disappointment for UPA: BJP

NEW DELHI – The Congress-led United Progressive Alliance (UPA) government’s first year in office in its second phase has been “a year of disappointment”, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) said Monday.
“A year after electoral success, the first anniversary of the government ought to be celebrated with enthusiasm. But it was never expected that [..] Read the original article: here.

Opposition seeks to censure Thai PM over deadly protest crackdown; more Red Shirts surrender

Opposition seeks to censure Thai PM over crackdown

BANGKOK – Opposition leaders moved to censure Thailand’s prime minister Monday for his handling of rioting and violence in Bangkok that left at least 85 people dead in clashes between demonstrators and troops over the past two months.
The shell-shocked capital took steps back toward normalcy Monday, with schools … Read : Opposition seeks to censure Thai PM over deadly protest crackdown; more Red Shirts surrender.

Support N-liability bill for India’s growth: PM

NEW DELHI – Prime Minister Manmohan Singh Monday urged political parties to support the civil nuclear liability bill for the sake of India’s growth.
“We have the will to ensure that our country does have an effective nuclear liability compensatory arrangement. This we need if we have to become a major nuclear energy power,” … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Support N-liability bill for India’s growth: PM.

PM on Left support: If wishes were horses, beggars would ride

NEW DELHI – “If wishes were horses, beggars would ride,” was Prime Minister Manmohan Singh’s comment when asked if he missed the “structured” support of the Left parties during the second stint of the United Progressive Alliance government.
“If wishes were horse, beggars would ride. It cannot become a reality…”, he replied about the …. Source article  : PM on Left support: If wishes were horses, beggars would ride.

Improving ties with Pakistan in India’s interest: PM

NEW DELHI – Three weeks after the thaw in Thimphu, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh Monday said the trust deficit was the “biggest problem” with Pakistan and stressed that it was important to improve relations with neighbours to realise India’s develomental potential.
“Pakistan is our neighbour. It is our obligation to make every … Read more : Improving ties with Pakistan in India’s interest: PM.

I am not retiring, says PM

NEW DELHI – Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, who has ruled India since May 2004, said Monday that there was no question of his retirement — because he had a task to complete.
“I have been given a work and it is incomplete yet. And till I complete it, there is no question of my … Read more : I am not retiring, says PM.

“Stress deficiency” with Pakistan has to be addressed: PM

NEW DELHI – The Prime Minister, Dr. Manmohan Singh on Monday said no progress could happen in negotiations between India and Pakistan unless the trust deficiency is addressed.

Addressing a press conference on completion of the first year of UPA II, Dr Singh said the trust deficiency between … Original source on Gaea Times at : “Stress deficiency” with Pakistan has to be addressed: PM.

BJP backs out, Jharkhand government in minority

RANCHI – The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Monday withdrew support to the Shibu Soren-led government, reducing it to a minority and plunging Jharkhand into another round of political uncertainty.

The BJP has a strength of 18 in the 81-member assembly and the ruling Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) also has 18 members. The All Jharkhand Students …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : BJP backs out, Jharkhand government in minority.

Fla. gov candidate Rick Scott, former hospital exec, touts business acumen, outsider status

Fla. governor candidate touts outsider status
TAMPA, Fla. – Rick Scott, neophyte politician and surprise candidate for Florida governor, opens one of his now ubiquitous TV commercials with this: “So I bet you’re wondering, where have I seen that handsome bald guy before?”
Those who followed President Barack Obama’s efforts to overhaul health …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

BJP withdraws support to Soren government

RANCHI – The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Monday withdrew support to the Shibu Soren-led government in Jharkhand, reducing it to a minority and plunging the state into another phase of uncertainty.

The BJP has a strength of 18 in the 81-member assembly and the ruling Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) also has 18 members. The All … Read : BJP withdraws support to Soren government.

BJP expected to pull out of Jharkhand Government today

NEW DELHI / RANCHI – Frustrated over the Jharkahnd Mukti Morcha (JMM) backtracking from the power-sharing deal in Jharkhand, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is expected to pull out of the coalition government in the state on Monday.

According to BJP Jharkhand spokesman Sanjay Seth, a delegation of the party MLAs led by Deputy Chief …. Read the original article  : BJP expected to pull out of Jharkhand Government today.

UPA Government determined to tackle naxalism: Manmohan Singh

NEW DELHI – Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh said on Monday that naxalism is the biggest threat to the internal security of the country, and added that the UPA Government is determined to tackle this threat.

Speaking on the occasion of completion of one year of the UPA Government in its second term, Dr. … Read : UPA Government determined to tackle naxalism: Manmohan Singh.

No agreement on creating new states: PM

NEW DELHI – Prime Minister Manmohan Singh Monday said there was no agreement on creating new states in the country.
“There has been a demand for a separate Telangana. The matter has been referred to a committee under the chairmanship of a retired judge. The matter is pending, so I won’t comment,” he …. Original article  : No agreement on creating new states: PM.

Rising prices continue to be a matter of deep concern: Manmohan Singh

NEW DELHI – Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh on Monday said that rising prices continue to be a matter of deep concern for his government.

“The government attaches the highest priority to containing inflation so that there is no distress to the common man. As a result of the steps we have taken, there …. Original article  : Rising prices continue to be a matter of deep concern: Manmohan Singh.

UPA’s flagship programmes like NREGA progressing well: Manmohan Singh

NEW DELHI – Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh on the occasion of completion of one year of the UPA Government in its second term said on Monday that the flagship programmes launched by his government are progressing well.

“I will briefly highlight some of the important steps we have taken over the past … Read more >>>.

Nepal rushes towards President’s rule, emergency

KATHMANDU – With an unprecedented constitutional crisis set to engulf Nepal and its embattled Prime Minister Madhav Kumar Nepal still refusing to quit, President’s rule and a state of emergency looms ahead for the troubled nation from Friday midnight.

On Tuesday, the prime minister, who has been refusing mounting pressure by the opposition Maoist party as … Read more >>>.

Dodd: Blumenthal ‘will be OK’ in Conn. Senate race, despite comments about military service

Dodd: Blumenthal ‘will be OK’ in Conn. Senate race

HARTFORD, Conn. – Sen. Chris Dodd says he’s confident that fellow Democrat and Connecticut Attorney General Richard Blumenthal “will be OK” in his bid for the U.S. Senate.
Dodd spoke to reporters Monday in Hartford about the controversy over Blumenthal’s misstatements about his military record. Blumenthal is running [..] Read the original article: here.

Kashmiri separatists unmoved by PM’s dialogue offer

SRINAGAR – Kashmiri separatist leaders have not responded positively to Prime Minister Manmohan Singh’s statement that the central government was ready to hold talks with them.

“It is nothing more than mere rhetoric. It is aimed to hoodwink the international community,” Mirwaiz Umer Farooq, chairman of the moderate Hurriyat group, said Tuesday, a day after … Original article on : Kashmiri separatists unmoved by PM’s dialogue offer.

Gunmen kill newly elected lawmaker in drive-by shooting in northern Iraq

Gunmen kill newly elected lawmaker in Iraq

BAGHDAD – Gunmen in northern Iraq killed a newly elected lawmaker from a Sunni-backed list that narrowly won Iraq’s March elections, officials said, in a slaying certain to rattle the fragile political system.
There was no immediate claim of responsibility, but the Sunni lawmaker’s allies in the Iraqiya coalition said … Read : Gunmen kill newly elected lawmaker in drive-by shooting in northern Iraq.

Galbraith, former UN diplomat fired over Afghan election disagreement, runs for Vt. office

Fired UN diplomat Galbraith seeks office in Vt.

MONTPELIER, Vt. – Former U.N. diplomat Peter Galbraith says he’s going to run for the Vermont state Senate.
He was fired from a U.N. post in Afghanistan after a disagreement over last year’s presidential election there. He has also served as a U.S. diplomat in Croatia, East Timor and …. Source  : Galbraith, former UN diplomat fired over Afghan election disagreement, runs for Vt. office.

Pak calls for “sustained and meaningful” dialogue with India to end ‘trust deficit’

ISLAMABAD – The Pakistan Government has called for a “sustained and meaningful” dialogue with India after Indian Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh said that a trust deficit was the main obstacle in ties between the two countries.

“Obviously, there is a mutual trust deficit and we need to build trust between our two countries on solid …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Pak calls for “sustained and meaningful” dialogue with India to end ‘trust deficit’.

Indian origin grandmother is first woman PM of Trinidad and Tobago

Port-of-SPAIN – Indian-origin Kamla Persad-Bissessar has been elected the first woman prime minister of Trinidad and Tobago after the political coalition led by her won a thumping majority and ended the ruling party’s 43 years in power.

Persad-Bissessar’s People’s Partnership won 29 out of the 41 parliamentary seats in the elections held Monday. She is expected … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Indian origin grandmother is first woman PM of Trinidad and Tobago.

Lebanese PM Saad Hariri presses Obama on Mideast peace deal, tells him the ‘clock is ticking’

Lebanese PM presses Obama on Mideast peace deal

WASHINGTON – Lebanese Prime Minister Saad Hariri on Monday told President Barack Obama that the “clock is ticking” on Mideast peace and that failure to reach an agreement will lead to more violence and extremism in the region.
On his first official White House visit as premier, Hariri said … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Lebanese PM Saad Hariri presses Obama on Mideast peace deal, tells him the ‘clock is ticking’.

Just as Spitzer did 4 years ago, a driven attorney general, Cuomo, tries to take NY

As Spitzer did a cycle ago, Cuomo tries to take NY

ALBANY, N.Y. – As New Yorkers watch their Democratic attorney general, Andrew Cuomo, rev up his campaign for governor, it’s hard not to recall the same race four years ago.
That’s when Eliot Spitzer, also a Democratic attorney general at the time, ran for and won … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Just as Spitzer did 4 years ago, a driven attorney general, Cuomo, tries to take NY.

Prime Ministers’ Press Conferences. RECOLLECTIONS OF A COMMUNICATOR (Update -Article

NEW DELHI – The ‘national’ Press Conference addressed by the Prime Minister on May 24 wanted to focus on the performance of his government during the first year of his second term in office, but as expected it covered all national and international issues.

The …. Original article  : Prime Ministers’ Press Conferences. RECOLLECTIONS OF A COMMUNICATOR (Update -Article.

US may turn a blind eye to China-Pakistan n-deal

WASHINGTON – Even as two noted American experts asked the US to block the China-Pakistan nuclear deal, Washington indicated it would not come in the way if it was in compliance with the Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG) rules.
“I don’t know if this will come up during the secretary’s meetings in China this week,” … Read more >>.

Nikki Haley Denies Affair

New York (GaeaTimes.com) – Recently a blogger claimed that Nikki Haley had physical relation with a republican person some years ago to become the first female governor of the state. In reply Nikki Haley said that all these are preplanned useless talk just to derail her campaign program. 38 years old Halley also told that …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

GOP senator says Democrats’ push for quick Kagan hearings could cause a ‘train wreck’

Senator: No Kagan hearings without Clinton files

WASHINGTON – The top Republican on the Senate Judiciary Committee warned Monday that he would seek to slow Supreme Court nominee Elena Kagan’s path to confirmation unless senators get full access to her files as a Clinton administration aide.
“We’re heading to what could be a train wreck,” Sen. Jeff … Read more »»».

Lawmaker wants Gates to answer questions about Texas man who apparently faked way into Army

Lawmaker wants Gates to answer for Texas reservist

DALLAS – A Colorado congressman wants Secretary of Defense Robert Gates to provide answers on how a Texas man apparently tricked the Army into allowing him to enter the reserves as a noncommissioned officer.
Mike Coffman, a member of the House Armed Services Committee, delivered a letter to Gates’ … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Lawmaker wants Gates to answer questions about Texas man who apparently faked way into Army.

Vice president appears at campaign fundraiser for son Beau, who’s still recovering from stroke

Vice president stumps for son in Delaware race

WILMINGTON, Del. – Vice President Joe Biden is taking a break from the White House to campaign for Democratic political candidates, including his eldest son Beau.
The vice president appeared Monday afternoon at a campaign event in Wilmington for U.S. House candidate and former Delaware lieutenant governor John Carney. …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Vice president appears at campaign fundraiser for son Beau, who’s still recovering from stroke.

Statement by the Press Secretary on the Visit of President Sirleaf of Liberia to the White House

On Thursday, May 27, President Obama will welcome President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf of Liberia to the White House.  The United States greatly values its historic bonds with Liberia.  Liberia is an important democratic partner of the United States that has made tremendous strides in consolidating stability, improving governance, and contributing to regional peace and development …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Statement by the Press Secretary, 5/24/10

H.R. 1121, the “Blue Ridge Parkway and Town of Blowing Rock Land Exchange Act of 2009,” which authorizes the Department of the Interior to exchange with the Town of Blowing Rock, North Carolina, approximately 20 acres of Federal land located in the Blue Ridge Parkway for approximately 192 acres of land owned by the Town.

H.R. …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Statement by the Press Secretary, 5/24/10.

Obama team working on a compromise on gays in military, meets with gay rights activists

White House eyes a compromise on gays in military

WASHINGTON – A proposal to step up the repeal of the ban on gays and lesbians serving openly in the military but still allow the Pentagon time – perhaps even years – to implement new policies was being discussed Monday by administration officials and gay rights activists.
The …. Source article  : Obama team working on a compromise on gays in military, meets with gay rights activists.

Early results show Ethiopia’s ruling party won elections; rights group calls vote corrupted

Early results: Ethiopia’s ruling party wins vote

ADDIS ABABA, Ethiopia – Provisional results show Ethiopia’s ruling party has won national elections, officials said Monday, as a U.S. rights group said the weekend ballot had been corrupted by irregularities.
The Ethiopian People’s Revolutionary Democratic Front and its allies were ahead in the nine regions that have reported results, [..] Read the original article: here.

Press Briefing by Press Secretary Robert Gibbs, Admiral Thad Allen and Assistant to The President for Energy and Climate Change Carol Browner

3:17 P.M. EDT
MR. GIBBS:  Good afternoon.  As we get started today we’re going to hear from a couple of different people that are working on the administration’s response to the oil spill in the Gulf.  First you’ll hear from Admiral Allen, and then we’ll be happy to take your questions. 

I will say as a point … Original article on : Press Briefing by Press Secretary Robert Gibbs, Admiral Thad Allen and Assistant to The President for Energy and Climate Change Carol Browner.

Britain’s government sets out legislative program after historic and messy election

UK government sets out legislative program

LONDON – Queen Elizabeth II has opened Parliament nearly 60 times, but she will have an unfamiliar task Tuesday as she sets out the legislative program of a coalition government – the country’s first since World War II.
Amid centuries-old tradition featuring cannon fire, Yeoman Guards, mounted cavalry and glittering carriages, …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Britain’s government sets out legislative program after historic and messy election.

Texas Gov. Perry penning book this year warning of dangers of federal government intrusion

Texas Gov. Perry writing book blasting feds

AUSTIN, Texas – Texas Gov. Rick Perry has long criticized the federal government, and now he’s writing on the subject in a new book called “FED UP.”
Perry’s office confirmed and book publisher Little, Brown and Company announced Tuesday that the GOP governor is writing the book. It’s due out …. Read the original article  : Texas Gov. Perry penning book this year warning of dangers of federal government intrusion.

UN: shortfall in donations for Chad relief puts 2 million at risk of hunger

FAO reports shortfall in Chad donations
ROME – A U.N. agency has warned that a dramatic shortfall in donations for Chad’s agriculture relief puts 2 million people at risk of hunger in the African nation.

The Food and Agriculture Organization said Tuesday that it has been able to mobilize only $2 million out of the $11.8 million [..] Read the original article: here.

BJP vague on Jaswant, Uma Bharti’s return

NEW DELHI – The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) was Wednesday ambiguous about the much touted return of veterans Jaswant Singh and Uma Bharti to the party fold.

Party spokesperson Nirmala Sitharaman said there was no development concerning them when asked about reports that the two leaders would return to the BJP before the … Read this article on Gaea Times at : BJP vague on Jaswant, Uma Bharti’s return.

Labrador maintains slim lead over Ward in Idaho’s 1st Congressional District

Labrador keeps early, narrow lead over Ward

BOISE, Idaho – State Rep. Raul Labrador is maintaining his lead over Marine reservist Vaughn Ward in their matchup for the Republican nomination in Idaho’s 1st Congressional District.
With 325 of 462 precincts reporting, Labrador has 46.3 percent of the votes compared to 39.9 percent for Ward – an advantage … Read more »».

Idaho lawmaker scores upset with GOP nomination win in state’s 1st Congressional District

Idaho lawmaker wins GOP nod in US House race

BOISE, Idaho – Idaho state Rep. Raul Labrador has won the Republican nomination in the state’s 1st Congressional District, pulling an upset over rival Vaughn Ward.
Labrador won Tuesday even though he had a significant fundraising disadvantage and despite launching his bid just six months ago.
He’ll face another [..] Read the original article: here.

McCain’s campaign fires back as challenger wrongly says US never declared war on Nazi Germany

McCain’s primary challenger flubs historical fact

PHOENIX – GOP Senate hopeful J.D. Hayworth, locked in a tough primary fight against Sen. John McCain, flubbed a key historical fact last week, asserting wrongly that the United States never declared war on Germany in World War II.
The gaffe came as Hayworth responded Thursday at a Phoenix Republican club … Read more »»».

President to unveil Tagore statue in Shanghai

NEW DELHI – President Pratibha Patil, who left Wednesday on a six-day visit to China, will unveil a statue of poet Rabindranath Tagore in Shanghai in honour of the Nobel laureate’s journey to the city in 1924, one that was marked by radical hostility from student groups at the time.
Patil, who will unveil …. Source article  : President to unveil Tagore statue in Shanghai.

Congress to hold Iran sanctions bill until UN and EU act

Congress to wait on bilateral sanctions on Iran

WASHINGTON – Congressional leaders putting together a new round of U.S. sanctions against Iran say they will defer final action to give the United Nations and the European Union a chance to take multinational action against Iran.
Senate Banking Committee Chairman Chris Dodd and House Foreign Affairs Committee Chairman …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Republicans, Dems press White House on whether it offered job to Sestak to skip Pa. primary

Republicans, Dems press White House on job offer

WASHINGTON – Republicans and Democrats pressured the White House on Tuesday to disclose whether it offered a federal job to Pennsylvania Rep. Joe Sestak if he would drop his Senate primary challenge against Democratic incumbent Arlen Specter.
Sestak has said repeatedly that he rejected an offer to join the …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Republicans, Dems press White House on whether it offered job to Sestak to skip Pa. primary.

I was betrayed, says Nepal’s last king

KATHMANDU – Two years after he lost his crown and was compelled to leave the palace of his forefathers to begin life as a commoner, Nepal’s last king Gyanendra Bir Bikram Shah has finally ended his silence, saying he was “betrayed”.

The 62-year-old, who being a younger son had no hope of ascending the snake throne … Original source on Gaea Times at : I was betrayed, says Nepal’s last king.

US politician caught plagiarising Obama speech

LONDON – A Republican congressional candidate has been accused of plagiarising US President Barack Obama’s speech on “the crossroads of history”.
Vaughn Ward, a former US Marine Corps officer and CIA operative, was running for the Republican congressional nomination in an election held Tuesday in Idaho.
The Telegraph reported Wednesday that Lucas Baumbach, a …. Source  : US politician caught plagiarising Obama speech.

With tepid backing from Gates and some Dems opposed, lifting military’s ban on gays in doubt

Proposal to lift ban on gays in military in doubt

WASHINGTON – A lukewarm endorsement from Defense Secretary Robert Gates and opposition among some lawmakers cast doubt Tuesday on whether Congress this week would lift a 17-year-old ban on gays serving openly in the military.
Gay rights’ groups predicted that the bill might pass the House but … Read this article on Gaea Times at : With tepid backing from Gates and some Dems opposed, lifting military’s ban on gays in doubt.

Clinton to address North-South tensions during Seoul visit

SEOUL – US Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton arrived in Seoul Wednesday for a half-day visit to discuss rising tensions on the Korean peninsula after the sinking of a South Korean warship was blamed on North Korea.
Talks on joint strategies to handle the crisis and Washington’s reaffirmation of its support for Seoul … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Clinton to address North-South tensions during Seoul visit.

South Korean officials ordered out of border factory

SEOUL – North Korea Wednesday ordered South Korean government personnel to leave their joint factory complex in the North Korean border town of Kaesong, a top official said, even as tensions between the two countries flared over the sinking of a South Korean warship in March.

The eight South Korean officials, however, told North Korean … Read : South Korean officials ordered out of border factory.

Bloomberg announces $22M fund for tech startups, urges tech companies to put down roots in NYC

NYC mayor announces $22M fund for tech startups

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg is announcing a new fund to help promising technology startup companies.
It’s expected to be a $22 million investment fund. The city is putting in $3 million. FirstMark Capital, a New York-based venture capital firm, will contribute up to $19 …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Bloomberg announces $22M fund for tech startups, urges tech companies to put down roots in NYC.

FBI files say the bureau had a ‘prosecutive’ federal case against Murtha in the Abscam scandal

New FBI documents detail Murtha’s role in Abscam

WASHINGTON – Newly released FBI documents detail the role of the late Rep. John Murtha in the Abscam scandal, the law enforcement sting that damaged the congressman’s reputation early in his political career. The documents on the FBI’s two-decade-old investigation state that “during the course of the operations, … Read more »».

Horace Greeley redux: Democrats go west to win elections but now struggle to hold onto gains

Go west! Dems did, now struggle to hold onto gains
LONGMONT, Colo. – Westward, uh-oh.
For Democrats, the newly minted crossover voters who helped elect Barack Obama president in 2008 are displaying a rugged individualist streak and echoing tea party-type distrust of all things Washington. This is haunting the party as it struggles to keep …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Horace Greeley redux: Democrats go west to win elections but now struggle to hold onto gains.

Mexican senators to travel to Arizona to hold forum on immigration law, but won’t protest

Mexican senators to listen, not protest in Arizona

MEXICO CITY – A delegation of Mexican senators plans to go to Arizona to listen to opinions about the U.S. state’s immigration law, but it will not take part in any protests against the controversial measure.
The Mexican Senate has already voiced its opposition to the Arizona law, which … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Mexican senators to travel to Arizona to hold forum on immigration law, but won’t protest.

Chicago waits to hear if it will be hiring firefighters in long-running discrimination case

Chicago waits for next step in firefighter case

CHICAGO – The city of Chicago says it’s ready to hire firefighters in a long-running discrimination case if it’s ordered to do so now that the U.S. Supreme Court has found a group of black applicants didn’t wait too long to sue.
The Supreme Court’s decision Monday sent the …. Original source  : Chicago waits to hear if it will be hiring firefighters in long-running discrimination case.

JMM-BJP – from friend to foe and friend again?

RANCHI – In the shifting sands of political equations in Jharkhand, nothing is quite as it seems. The ruling JMM and the BJP may have just parted ways but most leaders of both parties are not averse to joining hands again, say sources, even as the Congress explores possibilities of forming an alternative government.

According to …. Read the original article  : here.

Congress headed toward landmark votes on whether to lift military gay ban

Congress to vote on military gay ban
WASHINGTON – Congress is headed toward landmark votes on whether to allow gays to serve openly in the military.

The House was expected to vote as early as Thursday on a proposal by Rep. Patrick Murphy, a Pennsylvania Democrat who served in the Iraq war, that would repeal the 1993 …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Nepal PM will not accept any conditional extension of Constituent Assembly

KATHMANDU – Prime Minister Madhav Kumar Nepal on Thursday said that he would not accept any conditions put forth to extend the tenure of the Constituent Assembly (CA).

During the meeting with visiting UK Minister of State for International Development Alan Duncan, Madhav … Read more : Nepal PM will not accept any conditional extension of Constituent Assembly.

Nepal political leaders meet but fail to reach agreement; constitutional crisis looms Friday

Nepal leaders still at odds as crisis looms

KATMANDU, Nepal – Nepalese government and opposition leaders failed Wednesday to resolve disagreements that could leave the Himalayan nation without a functioning legislature by the weekend and heading for political chaos, a ruling coalition official said.
The two-year term of the Constituent Assembly, which was elected in 2008, expires …. Read the original article  : Nepal political leaders meet but fail to reach agreement; constitutional crisis looms Friday.

Nation pays tribute to Nehru on his 46th death anniversary

NEW DELHI – Vice President Hamid Ansari and Prime Minister Manmohan Singh led the nation in paying floral tributes to India’s first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru, on his 46th death anniversary on Thursday.
UPA Chairperson Sonia Gandhi, Delhi Chief Minister Sheila Dikshit and other senior leaders also paid …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Thai political battle moves from streets to courts

BANGKOK – The battle between the Thai government and supporters of coup-ousted former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra has moved off the streets and into the courts, officials said Thursday.

A week after Thai troops and armoured vehicles broke up a two-month demonstration by Thaksin supporters in the heart of Bangkok, the government has initiated a multi-pronged …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Thai political battle moves from streets to courts.

Shadow of emergency dulls Buddha birth anniversary in Nepal

KATHMANDU – The shadow of emergency and President’s rule only a day away dulled Buddha Purnima festivities in Nepal, the birthplace of the Buddha, even as the world celebrated the 2,554th birth anniversary of the apostle of peace and non-violence Thursday.

Lumbini, the town in southern Nepal along the Indian border where the founder of Buddhism [..] Read the original article: here.

Peerage for Indian tycoon who gave Tories 200,000 pounds

LONDON – A Ugandan-born Indian business tycoon, who gave the Conservatives over 200,000 pounds in donations, will be nominated for a British peerage by Prime Minister David Cameron.

Dolar Popat, who is a self-made multimillionaire, will get a seat in the House of Lords. He has an estimated fortune of 42 million pounds, Daily Mail reported …. Source article  : Peerage for Indian tycoon who gave Tories 200,000 pounds.

Tea party favorite wins in Idaho in another embarrassment for GOP establishment

Tea party win embarrasses GOP establishment

WASHINGTON – Chalk up another win for the tea party. And another embarrassment for the Republican establishment.
Tea party favorite and two-term state lawmaker Raul Labrador defeated Vaughn Ward, a Marine reservist heavily recruited by national Republicans, in Idaho’s primary on Tuesday. Ward’s loss comes on the heels of several other …. Source article  : Tea party favorite wins in Idaho in another embarrassment for GOP establishment.

Obama elevated dialogue with ‘emerging global power’ India

WASHINGTON – The US says the Obama administration felt it important to elevate its dialogue with New Delhi as India is a “a great and emerging global power” with which the US has a significant range of interests.
“I think the strategic dialogue speaks for itself,” State Department spokesman P. J. Crowley told … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Obama elevated dialogue with ‘emerging global power’ India.

Republican Dino Rossi to challenge incumbent Wash. Democrat Patty Murray in US Senate race

Repub. Rossi announces challenge to Sen. Murray

OLYMPIA, Wash. – After months of pressure from national Republicans, two-time gubernatorial runner-up Dino Rossi announced Wednesday he would take on Washington state’s powerful senior senator, Democrat Patty Murray.
Republicans need 10 seats to seize control of the U.S. Senate and Rossi represents a chance to put an 11th Democrat-held … Read : Republican Dino Rossi to challenge incumbent Wash. Democrat Patty Murray in US Senate race.

Idaho voters picks a GOP nominee for Congress amid split in tea party support

Amid tea party divide, Idaho GOP picks a nominee

BOISE, Idaho – Voters in Idaho were choosing a GOP nominee for Congress on Tuesday in an unusually tangled battle that divided local and national tea party activists, and raised questions of plagiarism on the campaign trail.
Marine reservist Vaughn Ward and Idaho state lawmaker Raul Labrador were … Read : Idaho voters picks a GOP nominee for Congress amid split in tea party support.

Auburn’s Barbee trying to reignite spark in hoops program

AU’s Barbee trying to stoke fans’ flames
AUBURN, Ala. – Tony Barbee’s office has just the basics: A tidy desk, a station for his laptop and a TV.

No pictures or plaques hang from the wall, because these are only temporary digs for Auburn’s new basketball coach. The basketball offices will move across the street to the …. Original source  : Auburn’s Barbee trying to reignite spark in hoops program.

Select Medical Holdings Corp. names former Senator Frist independent director

Select Medical Holdings names Frist director

MECHANICSBURG, Pa. – Hospital operator Select Medical Holdings Corp. said Wednesday it appointed former Senate Majority Leader Dr. William H. Frist as an independent director to the company’s board.
Frist is currently serving as a business and medicine professor at Vanderbilt University. He represented Tennessee in the U.S. Senate from 1995 … Original article on : Select Medical Holdings Corp. names former Senator Frist independent director.

Trinidad and Tobago elects 1st female prime minister, ousting incumbent

Trinidad elects 1st female prime minister
PORT-OF-SPAIN, Trinidad – Trinidad and Tobago has elected its first female prime minister in an early election, ousting an incumbent hurt by soaring crime and allegations of public corruption.

Kamla Persad-Bissessar and her five-party People’s Partnership coalition won 29 of 41 seats in the Caribbean nation’s parliament, according to preliminary election … Read more »»».

Dominican beauty queen gives up crown for candidacy, will represent region where she grew up

Dominican beauty queen trades pageant for politics

SANTO DOMINGO, Dominican Republic – A beauty queen known as the Dominican Cinderella for her rise from humble roots is trading pageants for politics and will serve as deputy mayor of the region where she was born.
Ada Aimee de la Cruz, who was the 2009 Miss Universe runner up, …. Source  : Dominican beauty queen gives up crown for candidacy, will represent region where she grew up.

Russia, China and other G20 countries frustrating global human rights progress, Amnesty says

Amnesty: G20 frustrating human rights progress

LONDON – Amnesty International accused the United States, Russia and China on Thursday of ignoring human rights violations by allies and failing to open their own records to scrutiny in an annual survey meant to pressure governments to act more compassionately.
The human rights organization took the U.S. to task for … Original article on : Russia, China and other G20 countries frustrating global human rights progress, Amnesty says.

Huge crowd celebrates Ethiopia’s ruling party victory, but rights group calls vote corrupted

Ethiopia ruling party celebrates election victory

ADDIS ABABA, Ethiopia – Tens of thousands of ruling party supporters rallied Tuesday in Ethiopia’s capital to celebrate victory in the national election, which a U.S. rights group claims was marred by irregularities.
A top opposition leader denounced the provisional results released by the Ethiopian elections board, but did not indicate … Read more »».

Presidential Nominations Sent to the Senate, 5/26/10

Matthew J. Bryza, of Illinois, a Career Member of the Senior Foreign Service, Class of Counselor, to be Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the United States of America to the Republic of Azerbaijan.

Mark Charles Storella, of Maryland, a Career Member of the Senior Foreign Service, Class of Counselor, to be Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of …. Source article  : Presidential Nominations Sent to the Senate, 5/26/10.

Press Gaggle by Deputy Press Secretary Bill Burton, 5/26/10

3:40 P.M. EDT
MR. BURTON:  The President has been receiving regular briefings about what’s happening on the Gulf from Deputy Chief of Staff Jim Messina, who’s been receiving information on the ground from Carol Browner.  As you know, all eyes are on what’s happening in the Gulf today.  Secretary Chu is in Houston at the command …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Press Gaggle by Deputy Press Secretary Bill Burton, 5/26/10.

Nepal PM falls prey to email hoax, not to quit

KATHMANDU – Faced with an unparalleled constitutional crisis from midnight, Nepal’s embattled Prime Minister Madhav Kumar Nepal Friday fell prey to an email hoax that said he was ready to quit within 48 hours if the opposition agreed to bail the nation out.

“I am ready to resign within two days to pave the way for … Original source on Gaea Times at : Nepal PM falls prey to email hoax, not to quit.

Nepal PM offers to quit within 48 hours

KATHMANDU – Faced with an unparalleled constitutional crisis from Friday midnight, Nepal’s embattled Prime Minister Madhav Kumar Nepal finally bowed down before the Maoist demand for his resignation and said he would quit in 48 hours.

The prime minister would make the commitment in an address in parliament Friday afternoon when the 601-member house convenes, the … Read more >>.

UN urges Nepal to save derailed peace process

KATHMANDU – As a dire constitutional crisis threatened to engulf Nepal from midnight with its interim parliament and ruling coalition headed for dissolution, the UN urged the political parties to put national interests first and save the imperilled peace process that had ended a decade of communist insurrection.

“Now is the time to put national interest …. Read the original article  : here.

Another Black Friday threatens Nepal, crisis at midnight

KATHMANDU – Regarded as an ill-omen day when most of Nepal’s national tragedies occurred, yet another Black Friday dawned in Nepal with a constitutional crisis looming from midnight as the country’s political leaders continued to fight over power-sharing.

It was a Friday June 1, 2001 when Nepal’s popular king Birendra and nine more members of the … Read : Another Black Friday threatens Nepal, crisis at midnight.

Sharad Yadav wants government to faster action on caste in census

NEW DELHI – Janata Dal (United) chief Sharad Yadav has asked the government to act fast on the factor of caste in census.

Talking to reporters here on Thursday, Yadav said: “I want to say that government should not delay the process and to say that only a few lawmakers … Original source on Gaea Times at : Sharad Yadav wants government to faster action on caste in census.

PM expresses grief over West Bengal railway mishap

NEW DELHI – Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh has expressed his grief over the loss of lives after 13 coaches of the Mumbai bound Howrah-Kurla Lokmanya Tilak Gyaneshwari Super Deluxe Express derailed in West Bengal on Friday morning.

“Dr Singh had asked the Railway and other authorities to … Read this article on Gaea Times at : PM expresses grief over West Bengal railway mishap.

‘Don’t Ask Don’t Tell’ To Be Repealed

WASHINGTON (GaeaTimes.com)- The gay and lesbians in the USA who aspired to join the army but hesitated to do so owing to the draconian “don’t ask, don’t tell” policy, have reasons to rejoice. The House and Senate members have taken active steps to get the much criticized law repealed. This law which has been … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : ‘Don’t Ask Don’t Tell’ To Be Repealed.

NATO: At least 3 months more needed before Marjah can be a success

NATO: Marjah some 3 months away from success

WASHINGTON – A senior NATO general in Afghanistan says it will probably be months before Afghans in Marjah shun the Taliban and form a strong local government.
British Maj. Gen. Nick Carter tells reporters Wednesday that the 3-month-old, U.S.-led NATO operation in the southern region has been a military …. Original source  : NATO: At least 3 months more needed before Marjah can be a success.

Former gov. candidate to put Washington state in play for GOP with Senate race entrance

GOP hopes candidate will flip Wash. Senate seat

OLYMPIA, Wash. – Dino Rossi is best known for losing one of the closest governor’s races in U.S. history.
Now Republicans hope he can ride a Republican tide and unseat Washington state’s powerful senior senator, Democrat Patty Murray.
Rossi is set to officially announce his entry into the race Wednesday. … Original article on : Former gov. candidate to put Washington state in play for GOP with Senate race entrance.

Ex-congressman says he’s no longer campaigning for GOP nomination for Senate seat from Conn.

Ex-congressman stops campaign for Senate in Conn.

NEW LONDON, Conn. – Former U.S. Rep. Rob Simmons says he’s no longer campaigning in the Connecticut U.S. Senate race, days after vowing to challenge former wrestling executive Linda McMahon in a Republican primary.
Simmons made the announcement Tuesday morning on WXLM-FM in New London, but he stopped short of … Original source on Gaea Times at : Ex-congressman says he’s no longer campaigning for GOP nomination for Senate seat from Conn..

After blogger affair claim, married SC gov candidate asks challengers to renounce smears

SC gov hopeful as challengers to renounce smears

COLUMBIA, S.C. – State Rep. Nikki Haley challenged opponents in the governor’s race to renounce smear tactics after a Columbia political blogger claimed he had an affair with the married mother of two children.
Haley went on the offensive Monday after Will Folks claimed he had an inappropriate relationship … Read : After blogger affair claim, married SC gov candidate asks challengers to renounce smears.

8 ships with supplies, activists sail toward blockaded Gaza, likely showdown with Israel

8 ships with aid, activists head for sealed Gaza

JERUSALEM – Eight ships carrying 10,000 tons of donated supplies and hundreds of pro-Palestinian activists on Tuesday were making their way toward blockaded Gaza – and a likely weekend showdown with the Israeli navy.
The small flotilla carrying cement, prefab homes and other goods marks the most ambitious …. Read the original article  : 8 ships with supplies, activists sail toward blockaded Gaza, likely showdown with Israel.

Federal judge hearing Calif. gay marriage case mulls letting cameras cover closing arguments

Judge mulls allowing cameras at gay marriage trial

SAN FRANCISCO – A federal judge overseeing a lawsuit challenging California’s same-sex marriage ban is considering whether to allow closing arguments to be broadcast on television or the Internet.
Chief U.S. District Judge Vaughn Walker issued a notice Tuesday stating he would hear final arguments on June 16.
Walker heard …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Federal judge hearing Calif. gay marriage case mulls letting cameras cover closing arguments.

AP sources: US expects China to join world criticism of North Korea for sinking South’s ship

AP sources: China to join criticism of N. Korea
ELMENDORF AIR FORCE BASE, Alaska – The Obama administration expects China to join in the international criticism of North Korea for the sinking of a South Korean warship.
After U.S.-China discussions this week in Beijing, senior American officials say China will carefully move closer to South … Original source on Gaea Times at : AP sources: US expects China to join world criticism of North Korea for sinking South’s ship.

India among ‘key centres of influence’ in Obama security strategy

WASHINGTON – Recognising India as one of the “key centres of influence” along with China and Russia, President Barack Obama’s new National Security Strategy reaffirms “building a strategic partnership” with India as “one of the defining partnerships of the 21st century.”
Faced with “the emergence of new challenges and the shortcomings of the … Read more >>>.

Simmons ends campaign for US Senate seat in Conn. but keeps name on GOP primary ballot

Simmons ends campaign for US Senate seat in Conn.

NEW LONDON, Conn. – Former U.S. Rep. Rob Simmons says he’s ending his campaign in Connecticut for U.S. Senate but keeping his name on the Republican primary ballot, though party leaders endorsed ex-wrestling executive Linda McMahon.
Simmons said Tuesday that he understood the “mathematical reality” of competing against …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Statement by the President on Votes to Repeal “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell”

I have long advocated that we repeal ‘Don’t Ask Don’t Tell’, and I am pleased that both the House of Representatives and the Senate Armed Services Committee took important bipartisan steps toward repeal tonight.  Key to successful repeal will be the ongoing Defense Department review, and as such I am grateful that the amendments offered …. Source  : Statement by the President on Votes to Repeal “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell”.

Mass. AG argues against federal gay marriage ban, says law penalizes married same-sex couples

Mass. AG argues against federal gay marriage ban

BOSTON – The Massachusetts attorney general asked a judge Wednesday to strike down a federal gay marriage ban, arguing it interferes with the right of states to define marriage and have those marriages acknowledged by the federal government.
The challenge to the constitutionality of the Defense of Marriage Act …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Arizona Gov. Jan Brewer creates legal defense fund for immigration law; $10K already received

Ariz. governor creates legal defense fund for law

PHOENIX – Arizona Gov. Jan Brewer is creating a legal defense fund for the state’s tough new crackdown on illegal immigration.
Brewer created the fund in an executive order signed Wednesday.
Her office says Brewer already has received about $10,000 in unsolicited donations from more than 40 states.
Opponents of Arizona’s … Original article on : Arizona Gov. Jan Brewer creates legal defense fund for immigration law; $10K already received.

Calif. bill would ban sale of sugary sports drinks from schools; critics call it intrusion

Calif. bill would ban sports drinks from schools

SACRAMENTO, Calif. – California students seeking a lunchtime electrolyte boost would be out of luck under a bill passed Thursday by the state Senate.
The measure would prohibit sales of sugar-sweetened sports drinks in public middle schools and high schools. It’s sponsored by Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger as part of …. Source article  : Calif. bill would ban sale of sugary sports drinks from schools; critics call it intrusion.

In Nevada, squawking over ban on chicken suits at polling places; a loophole is noted

In Nevada, squawks over chicken costumes at polls

CARSON CITY, Nev. – A ban on chicken costumes outside polling sites in Nevada, where they have become akin to politicking against a GOP Senate candidate, doesn’t infringe on free speech, the state’s top election official said Wednesday.
But Nevada Secretary of State Ross Miller also noted this loophole: … Original article on : In Nevada, squawking over ban on chicken suits at polling places; a loophole is noted.

UN asks for agreement on nuclear disarmament

NEW YORK – With one day left before a month-long nuclear review conference ends Friday, UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon urged the participants to agree on nuclear disarmament as expected by the world.

“There is too much at stake for the conference to repeat the failure of 2005,” Ban said in a letter to the Nuclear [..] Read the original article: here.

On eve of gay ban vote, top officer repeats his support of changing ‘don’t ask, don’t tell’

Top officer talks change as gay ban vote nears

PETERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Colo. – On the eve of a vote to end the military ban on openly gay service members, the nation’s top uniformed military officer repeated his support Wednesday for repealing the “don’t ask, don’t tell” policy.
“Personal opinion? I believe it’s time. I believe … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : On eve of gay ban vote, top officer repeats his support of changing ‘don’t ask, don’t tell’.

Ala. congressman’s switch to GOP still leaves Republicans cool to his bid for 2nd term

Ala. congressman in battle after switch to GOP

HUNTSVILLE, Ala. – You would think U.S. Rep. Parker Griffith’s decision to switch to the Republican Party would endear him with the GOP. Instead, he finds himself in a three-way primary, being branded a “flip-flopper,” and continues to battle lingering hard feelings over his win two years ago … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Ala. congressman’s switch to GOP still leaves Republicans cool to his bid for 2nd term.

Anti-abortion group says it will campaign for Fiorina in last days of Calif. GOP Senate race

Anti-abortion group to campaign for CA candidate

WASHINGTON – A national organization that opposes abortion says it will spend about $215,000 in the final days of the California Republican Senate primary to promote candidate Carly Fiorina.
The Susan B. Anthony List supports female political candidates who oppose abortion.
The organization said Wednesday the money would pay for Internet … Read more »»».

Presidential Nominations Sent to the Senate, 5/27/10

Eric D. Benjaminson, of Oregon, a Career Member of the Senior Foreign Service, Class of Counselor, to be Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the United States of America to the Gabonese Republic, and to serve concurrently and without additional compensation as Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the United States of America to the Democratic Republic …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Presidential Nominations Sent to the Senate, 5/27/10.

Statement by the Press Secretary on the Visit of Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas

The President will welcome Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas to the White House on June 9. The President looks forward to reviewing with President Abbas the progress so far in Israeli-Palestinian proximity talks, and how the United States can work with the parties to transition to direct talks. They will also discuss our continuing effort … Read more »»».

Statement by the President on the Passing of John William Finn

Michelle and I were deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Retired Navy Lt. John William Finn, the oldest living Medal of Honor recipient.   Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and loved ones at this time.  Lt. Finn received the Medal for the heroism he displayed during the attack on Pearl Harbor.   … Read more : Statement by the President on the Passing of John William Finn.

Statement by the Press Secretary on H.R. 5014; the Federal Judiciary Administrative Improvements Act; and the Satellite Television Extension and Localism Act

On Thursday, May 27, 2010, the President signed into law:
H.R. 5014, which clarifies that certain health care programs, as determined by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, would qualify as minimum essential coverage for the purposes of the Patient protection and Affordable Care Act;

S. 1782, the “Federal Judiciary Administrative Improvements Act of 2010,” which makes changes … Read : Statement by the Press Secretary on H.R. 5014; the Federal Judiciary Administrative Improvements Act; and the Satellite Television Extension and Localism Act.

Aborted tobacco sting at Ohio governor’s home produces enduring political fallout

Aborted sting at official residence dogs Ohio guv

COLUMBUS, Ohio – Ohio Gov. Ted Strickland is facing political fallout over how aides handled a planned sting at his official residence in January.
Strickland moved swiftly Wednesday to get ahead of the criticism by replacing a state public safety official whose confirmation was rejected by the state Senate … Original article on : Aborted tobacco sting at Ohio governor’s home produces enduring political fallout.

President Obama Announces More Key Administration Posts, 5/27/10

WASHINGTON – Today, President Barack Obama announced his intent to nominate the following individuals to key administration posts:
Paul Tiao, Inspector General, Department of Labor
Neile L. Miller, Principal Deputy Administrator, National Nuclear Security Administration, Department of Energy
Eric Benjaminson, Ambassador to the Gabonese Republic, Department of State
J. Thomas Dougherty, Ambassador to Burkina Faso, Department of …. Original article  : President Obama Announces More Key Administration Posts, 5/27/10.

AP source: US demands Pakistan crack down on Taliban militants, citing Times Square attack

AP source: US seeks Pakistan crackdown on Taliban
WASHINGTON – Two top Obama administration officials have told Pakistan that it has only weeks to show real progress in a crackdown against the Pakistani Taliban, a senior U.S. official said Wednesday.
The U.S. has put Pakistan “on a clock” to launch a new intelligence and counterterrorist …. Read the original article  : here.

President Obama Names Two as U.S. Attorneys, 5/27/10

WASHINGTON – Today, President Obama nominated William J. Ihlenfeld and John W. Vaudreuil to serve as U.S. Attorneys.

“These individuals have shown tremendous excellence and integrity throughout their careers,” said President Obama.  “I am pleased to nominate them to serve as U.S. Attorneys.”

William J. Ihlenfeld, II: Nominee for United States Attorney, Northern District of West Virginia
William …. Read the original article  : here.

British lawmaker propose bill to reform libel laws, criticized for curtailing free speech

British lawmaker proposes libel law reform bill

LONDON – A British lawmaker Thursday began a new attempt Thursday to reform the country’s libel laws, long criticized for what is said to be a chilling effect on journalism and free speech.
Liberal Democrat Anthony Lester’s proposed bill is intended to increase the burden of proof on those who …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

President Obama Names Two to United States District Court, 5/27/10

WASHINGTON – Today, President Obama nominated Max O. Cogburn, Jr. and Judge James E. Shadid to seats on the United States District Court.

“I am proud to nominate these outstanding individuals to serve on the District Court bench,” said President Obama. “I am confident they will serve the people of North Carolina and Illinois with distinction.”
Max …. Read the original article  : President Obama Names Two to United States District Court, 5/27/10.

Remarks by President Obama and President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf of Liberia Before Bilateral Meeting

3:26 P.M. EDT
PRESIDENT OBAMA:  Well, I want to officially welcome President Sirleaf to the Oval Office.  I have been an extraordinary admirer of her work for many years now.  I fondly recall the speech that she delivered in a joint session of Congress when I was still in the Senate. 

The United States and Liberia are …. Original source  : Remarks by President Obama and President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf of Liberia Before Bilateral Meeting.

SKorea stages anti-submarine drill amid tensions over warship sinking blamed on NKorea

SKorea stages anti-submarine drill amid tension

SEOUL, South Korea – A fleet of South Korean warships fired artillery and dropped anti-submarine bombs Thursday in a large-scale military exercise off the west coast despite North Korea’s warnings that such drills will drive the peninsula to the brink of war.
Tension on the divided peninsula has risen dramatically since …. Original article  : SKorea stages anti-submarine drill amid tensions over warship sinking blamed on NKorea.

House Democratic leaders scale back unemployment bill to attract votes from deficit hawks

Democrats pare tax and spending bill to woo votes

WASHINGTON – House Democratic leaders have scaled back a tax and spending package that would extend unemployment benefits, in an attempt to pick up votes from jittery lawmakers concerned about deficit spending.
The pared down bill released Wednesday evening would provide expanded jobless benefits through November, and would …. Read the original article  : here.

Remarks by the President at Reception in Honor of Jewish American Heritage Month

4:27 P.M. EDT
THE PRESIDENT:  Hello, hello, hello!  Thank you.  Thank you. (Applause.)  Everybody, thank you.  Please have a seat.  Thank you so much.  Thank you so much.  It is wonderful to see all of you, and I am proud to welcome you to the first ever event held at the White House to honor Jewish … Read : Remarks by the President at Reception in Honor of Jewish American Heritage Month.

Congress won’t ask Justice Department to pursue perjury case against ex-slugger Sammy Sosa

Congress won’t ask for Sosa perjury investigation

WASHINGTON – Sammy Sosa will not face a perjury investigation for his remarks to Congress about performance-enhancing drugs.
The House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform said Wednesday the panel has decided not to have the Justice Department look into whether Sosa lied at a March 2005 hearing, when the …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Congress won’t ask Justice Department to pursue perjury case against ex-slugger Sammy Sosa.

Sonia promises all help to make Kashmir progressive

JAMMU – Congress president Sonia Gandhi Saturday offered the full support of the central government in making Jammu and Kashmir a progressive state and also lauded the tribal Gujjar community’s contribution in fighting terrorism in the state.

Gandi, on a day-long visit to Jammu, made it clear in her address after inaugurating a tribal cultural …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Sonia promises all help to make Kashmir progressive.

Separatist shutdown hits Kashmir to protest Sonia visit

SRINAGAR – Life across the Kashmir Valley was affected Saturday by a shutdown called by hardline separatist leader Syed Ali Geelani on a day Congress president Sonia Gandhi is visiting the state. Authorities have imposed restrictions in the old city areas of Srinagar.
Geelani has called the shutdown against the United Progressive Alliance …. Original article  : Separatist shutdown hits Kashmir to protest Sonia visit.

Go-ahead for conference to take first step to ban nuclear arms in Mideast – if Israel agrees

Israel key to conference on banning nuclear arms
UNITED NATIONS – After 15 years, Arab nations finally won agreement from the United States and the other nuclear powers to take the first step toward banning nuclear weapons from the Middle East. Now, the next move is Israel’s.
Although the U.S. joined the 188 …. Original article  : Go-ahead for conference to take first step to ban nuclear arms in Mideast – if Israel agrees.

Green light for conference to take first step to ban nukes in Mideast _ if Israel agrees

Israel key to conference on banning nukes
UNITED NATIONS – After 15 years, Arab nations finally won agreement from the United States and the other nuclear powers to take the first step toward banning nuclear weapons from the Middle East. Now, the next move is Israel’s.
Although the U.S. joined the 188 other member nations …. Read the original article  : Green light for conference to take first step to ban nukes in Mideast _ if Israel agrees.

Dems cut health subsidies, aid to states in attempt to salvage bill extending jobless benefits

Dems cut health subsidies to salvage jobs bill

WASHINGTON – House leaders have proposed dropping billions in aid to states and letting health insurance subsidies for laid-off workers expire in an effort to round up votes for a bill to extend unemployment benefits.
Democrats struggled Thursday to extend jobless benefits for people who have been out of …. Source article  : Dems cut health subsidies, aid to states in attempt to salvage bill extending jobless benefits.

Detroit mayor bans TV crews from police raids after death of Aiyana with cameras present

Detroit mayor bans TV crews from police raids

DETROIT – Detroit Mayor Dave Bing has banned reality television crews from tagging along with police after TV cameras accompanied officers on a raid in which a 7-year-old girl was shot dead.
Bing says he also has chided Police Chief Warren Evans for not telling him that he was …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Obama raising cash in California for Boxer’s tough re-election campaign, Senate Democrats

Obama raising cash in California for Boxer
SAN FRANCISCO – President Barack Obama is helping raise money for Sen. Barbara Boxer’s re-election campaign, making his second trip to California in as many months to assist the imperiled incumbent.
Obama arrived in San Francisco for two fundraisers Tuesday night for Boxer, a liberal Democrat who is …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

This ain’t no party: Talking Heads singer sues Fla. Gov. Crist for $1M over song use

Talking Heads singer sues Fla. governor for $1M

MIAMI – Florida Gov. Charlie Crist is being sued for $1 million for using a Talking Heads song in a campaign ad without the band’s permission.
The band’s ex-lead singer David Byrne sued the governor Monday in Tampa for using “Road to Nowhere” in an online attack ad against …. Read the original article  : This ain’t no party: Talking Heads singer sues Fla. Gov. Crist for $1M over song use.

APNewsBreak: 3 years after US-Mexico crackdown on narcos, changes are sought in funding

APNewsBreak: US officials seek drug war change

MEXICO CITY – The Obama Administration wants to shift U.S. aid in Mexico away from high-priced helicopters and airplanes and toward reforming Mexico’s corrupt law enforcement, courts and politicians.
Most of the $310 million that the Obama Administration seeks for Mexico in its 2011 budget request is aimed at judicial …. Source article  : APNewsBreak: 3 years after US-Mexico crackdown on narcos, changes are sought in funding.

Peruvian officials seeking family of Md. girl who questioned first lady on immigration

Peru officials seek girl who questioned first lady
ANNAPOLIS, Md. – Peruvian officials in the U.S. were seeking the family of a second-grader who told first lady Michelle Obama that her mother “doesn’t have papers,” so they can help them with documentation from their home country, a consulate official said Wednesday.
The 7-year-old told the …. Source  : Peruvian officials seeking family of Md. girl who questioned first lady on immigration.

Red Cross says first aid courses for Taliban are part of its humanitarian mandate

Red Cross defends first aid courses for Taliban

GENEVA – The international Red Cross has defended its first aid training for Taliban fighters in Afghanistan after media reports sparked criticism from Afghan officials.
The International Committee of the Red Cross says it trained “over 70 members of the armed opposition” in first aid last month.
The group says …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Red Cross says first aid courses for Taliban are part of its humanitarian mandate.

RJD MP delays President Patil’s flight in China

BEIJING/LUOYANG – President Pratibha Patil’s flight from Beijing to Luoyang was delayed by 20 minutes Saturday as Lok Sabha MP Raghuvansh Prasad Singh arrived late to board the special Chinese aircraft.

Singh, who is from the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) party of Lalu Yadav, however, blamed mismanagement for the delay, saying he had not been informed …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Obama’s new national security strategy preserves US military advantage, prizes alternatives

New US security goals prize non-military security
WASHINGTON – The Obama administration’s new outline of the top goals for U.S. national security will say that the United States should maintain its military advantage over the rest of the world while prizing other kinds of power.
The Associated Press obtained details of the forthcoming National Security …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Obama’s new national security strategy preserves US military advantage, prizes alternatives.

Biden jokes about avoiding ‘Blumenthal mistake’ in session with veterans

Biden jokes about avoiding ‘Blumenthal mistake’

WASHINGTON – Vice President Joe Biden has joked about avoiding a “Blumenthal mistake,” a reference to the Connecticut attorney general’s frequent misstatements about serving in Vietnam.
Biden met with veterans visiting his official residence on Tuesday night and tried to joke about Blumenthal’s gaffe, for which he apologized last week. The …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Biden jokes about avoiding ‘Blumenthal mistake’ in session with veterans.

El Salvador’s leftist president to hold meeting on reincorporating Honduras into regional body

Salvadoran president to hold meeting on Honduras

SAN SALVADOR, El Salvador – El Salvador’s president says a meeting of Central American leaders in July will discuss reincorporating neighboring Honduras into the Central American Integration System, an economic and political group.
Leftist President Mauricio Funes says the Honduran people are suffering the most from that country’s diplomatic isolation …. Read the original article  : El Salvador’s leftist president to hold meeting on reincorporating Honduras into regional body.

Palin defends SC governor candidate accused of having physical relationship with blogger

Palin denounces claim SC gov candidate had affair
COLUMBIA, S.C. – Former Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin is decrying claims by a blogger that he had an inappropriate physical relationship with South Carolina Republican gubernatorial candidate Nikki Haley.
In a posting on her Facebook page Monday, Palin said it was “quite convenient” that blogger Will Folks …. Source article  : Palin defends SC governor candidate accused of having physical relationship with blogger.

Gunmen attack 2 mosques of minority sect in Pakistan; 20 dead, worshippers may be hostages

Attackers strike sect mosques in Pakistan; 20 dead

LAHORE, Pakistan – Gunmen armed with grenades attacked two mosques of a minority sect during Friday prayers in eastern Pakistan, seizing control of one mosque and battling with police, officials and witnesses said. At least 20 people were killed, and worshippers were believed held hostage.
The attacks by suspected …. Source  : Gunmen attack 2 mosques of minority sect in Pakistan; 20 dead, worshippers may be hostages.

At UN nuclear session, diplomats hunt for common ground on Mideast nuke-free zone

Nuke treaty session hunts for Mideast compromise
UNITED NATIONS – In closed-door huddles extending into Thursday night, diplomats at a nuclear treaty conference sought to break a deadlock between the Arabs and Israel’s allies over a plan to turn the Middle East into a nuclear weapons-free zone.
A deal would likely clear the way for …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

NC’s Jesse Helms garnered favor from FBI; later asked agents to probe leak to reporters

NC Sen. Helms sought FBI favor, called in agents

RALEIGH, N.C. – U.S. Senator Jesse Helms curried favor with the FBI and director J. Edgar Hoover before starting his 30-year political life as a conservative icon, then occasionally called on the bureau for information and investigations, newly released records showed.
The FBI file on Helms, a polarizing … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : NC’s Jesse Helms garnered favor from FBI; later asked agents to probe leak to reporters.

Nepal averts crisis but chaos remains

KATHMANDU – Though the nascent republic of Nepal managed to stave off an unprecedented constitutional crisis by a hair’s breadth Friday midnight, public anger and confusion still remained, turning the celebration of Republic Day Saturday into a travesty.

The interim parliament, which has also been mandated to write a new constitution, was saved from the jaws … Read more : Nepal averts crisis but chaos remains.

Small Japanese party leaves ruling coalition over broken promise on US base

Small Japanese party quits government over US base

TOKYO – A small party decided Sunday to leave Japanese Prime Minister Yukio Hatoyama’s ruling coalition over his broken campaign promise to move a U.S. Marine base off Okinawa island.
The departure of the Social Democratic Party is unlikely to bring down Hatoyama’s Democratic Party of Japan-led government. But …. Original article  : Small Japanese party leaves ruling coalition over broken promise on US base.

You can’t please all (Capital Buzz)

NEW DELHI – It was dubbed as Prime Minister Manmohan Singh’s first national press conference since 2004, but while the prime minister earned plaudits for his performance his media adviser got brickbats for his handling of the event and for his exclusion of some of the industry’s pundits who promptly made a big … Original source on Gaea Times at : You can’t please all (Capital Buzz).

Extending Army Chief Kayani’s tenure is Pak’s ‘internal matter’ : Gilani

ISLAMABAD – Describing the likely extension in service of Army Chief General Ashfaq Parvez Kayani as the country’s ‘internal matter’, Pakistan Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani has said a decision in this regard would be taken at the appropriate time.

Interacting with media persons after inaugurating a photo exhibition titled ‘Swat Smiles Again’ at the …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Extending Army Chief Kayani’s tenure is Pak’s ‘internal matter’ : Gilani.

Decision on N.Waziristan offensive rests with Kayani : Gilani

LAHORE – Pakistan Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani has said the decision on launching a military offence in the restive North Waziristan rests with Chief of Army Staff General Ashfaq Parvez Kayani.

Addressing a public gathering after distributing compensatory cheques among the displaced people of Swat and Malakand, Gilani said the government would not bow …. Source  : Decision on N.Waziristan offensive rests with Kayani : Gilani.

Patil got Chinese names written in Devnagari

SHANGHAI – Indian President Pratibha Patil got all Chinese names and places written in the Devnagri script in her speeches to ensure she pronounces them properly.
Patil, who arrived in China May 26, has visited Beijing and Luoyang and is now on the last leg of her journey.
A week before she left …. Read the original article  : here.

Israel says it won’t take part in conference on establishing nuclear-free Mideast

Israel rejects new drive to ban nukes from Mideast
JERUSALEM – Israel, thought to be the Middle East’s only nuclear power, has rejected a new U.N. call to come clean about its secretive nuclear program, calling it a “deeply flawed and hypocritical” act that ignores the threat posed by its sworn enemy … Read more : Israel says it won’t take part in conference on establishing nuclear-free Mideast.

Small Japanese party leaves ruling coalition over broken promise on US base, reports say

Reports: Japan party quits government over US base
TOKYO – A small party decided Sunday to leave Japanese Prime Minister Yukio Hatoyama’s ruling coalition over his broken campaign promise to move a U.S. Marine base off Okinawa island, media reports said.
Hatoyama on Friday dismissed Gender Equality and Consumer Affairs Minister Mizuho Fukushima, head of … Read more >>.

West Bengal holds crucial civic polls, clashes reported

KOLKATA – Sporadic clashes were reported from many places in West Bengal Sunday as urban voters queued up to cast votes for civic body polls in the shadow of Friday’s train tragedy and the political bickering over it.

Though the situation was largely peaceful, trouble broke out between the ruling Communist Party of India-Marxist … Read more »»».

British treasury secretary quits over expenses scandal

LONDON – Just 17 days into his new office, Britain’s Chief Secretary to the Treasury David Laws has quit over claiming expenses to pay rent to his gay partner – plunging the new David Cameron-led coalition government into a crisis.

Laws is repaying 40,000 pounds expenses he claimed for rent he paid to long-term partner and … Read this article on Gaea Times at : British treasury secretary quits over expenses scandal.

President Patil pitches for green tech at Shanghai expo

SHANGHAI – President Pratibha Patil Sunday stressed on adapting green technology to make cities better at the ongoing 2010 World Expo here as she visited the India pavilion that has the world’s largest bamboo dome with a roof that supports 60,000 plants and collects rainwater as well.

With the theme “Better City – Better Life”, the … Original article on : President Patil pitches for green tech at Shanghai expo.

Rashad Evans survives Rampage Jackson’s 3rd-round flurry, wins decision at UFC 114

Evans outlasts Rampage to win UFC grudge match

LAS VEGAS – Rashad Evans dominated the first two rounds and survived Rampage Jackson’s vicious third-round flurry to win their light heavyweight bout by unanimous decision at UFC 114 on Saturday night.
Evans made good on his promise to end his long-simmering feud with Jackson by controlling the opening … Original article on : Rashad Evans survives Rampage Jackson’s 3rd-round flurry, wins decision at UFC 114.

Obama to attend Krishna reception to underscore India ties

WASHINGTON – It is rare for the US president to attend a reception for a visiting minister, But to counter a public perception that President Barack Obama is not as warm towards India as his predecessor George Bush was, the White House has made it known that he would attend a reception for …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Obama to attend Krishna reception to underscore India ties.

Illinois Senate hopeful Kirk amends official bio after misidentifying military award

IL Senate hopeful Kirk amends bio to correct award

WINNETKA, Ill. – Rep. Mark Kirk said he has amended his biography after he misstated an award he received for military service.
The Illinois Republican, who is locked in a high-stakes Senate race against Illinois state treasurer Alexi Giannoulias, is highlighting his service as a Naval Reserve commander …. Source article  : Illinois Senate hopeful Kirk amends official bio after misidentifying military award.

When Tony Blair did not want to fight Gordon Brown

LONDON – Former British prime minister Tony Blair was reluctant to take over as leader of the Labour party and said he did not want to fight Gordon Brown.

“I really don’t want to fight Gordon,” Blair told Alastair Campbell, director of communications and strategy for the Blair regime.
Blair felt his leadership would be … Original article on : When Tony Blair did not want to fight Gordon Brown.

Poll says resurgent Whitman leads Poizner by 24 in race for California governor

Poll: Whitman again leads big in Calif. gov. race

LOS ANGELES – A poll released Saturday night shows that former eBay chief executive Meg Whitman has stopped her plunge in recent polls to again take a large lead in the Republican race for California governor.
The poll from the Los Angeles Times and the University of Southern …. Original source  : Poll says resurgent Whitman leads Poizner by 24 in race for California governor.

Immigration law opponents march on Arizona Capitol, law’s supporters rally at suburban stadium

Thousands march to protest Ariz. immigration law
TEMPE, Ariz. – Thousands of people from around the country descended on the Phoenix area Saturday as supporters and opponents of Arizona’s tough new crackdown on illegal immigration held separate rallies.
Marchers carrying signs, banners and flags from the United States … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Immigration law opponents march on Arizona Capitol, law’s supporters rally at suburban stadium.

Statement by the President on the Latest Efforts to Contain the BP Oil Spill

Today, I’ve spoken with National Incident Commander Admiral Thad Allen, as well as Energy Secretary Steven Chu, Interior Secretary Ken Salazar, EPA Administrator Lisa Jackson, and senior White House advisors John Brennan and Carol Browner regarding the ongoing efforts to stop the BP oil spill.  From the beginning, our concern has been that the surest … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Statement by the President on the Latest Efforts to Contain the BP Oil Spill.

Statement by the Press Secretary on Today’s Pardoning in Malawi

The White House is pleased to learn of President Bingu wa Mutharika’s pardon of Tiwonge Chimbalanga and Steven Monjeza. These individuals were not criminals and their struggle is not unique. We must all recommit ourselves to ending the persecution and criminalization of sexual orientation and gender identity. We hope that President Mutharika’s pardon marks the … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Statement by the Press Secretary on Today’s Pardoning in Malawi.

Immigration law opponents brave heat to march on Ariz. Capitol; supporters plan evening rally

Thousands of immigration law opponents march in AZ
TEMPE, Ariz. – Thousands of supporters of Arizona’s tough new crackdown on illegal immigration are rallying at a baseball stadium outside Phoenix.
The Stand With Arizona rally asks people from around the country to support the state’s law in the face of a backlash from …. Read the original article  : here.

Germany wins 2010 Eurovision Song Contest

Germany wins 2010 Eurovision Song Contest
OSLO, Norway – Germany’s Lena Meyer-Landrut has won the 2010 Eurovision Song Contest, edging out Turkey and Romania.

Meyer-Landrut, who turned 19 during the competition in Norway, sang the upbeat, dance-floor friendly “Satellite,” which was one of the favorites to win.
This is the second time that Germany has won in the …. Source  : Gaea News Network.