I love the holidays… this weekend will be the major cook-fest.  I will mix up my own dark chocolate, milk chocolate and white chocolate recipes then hand-dip chocolate covered cherries and strawberries, coconut bonbons, coconut & cherry bonbons, peanut butter crunch bonbons… without a doubt, my much beloved grandmother will look down from her perch [...]

This morning on CNN’s Reliable Sources, the last real reporter on any of the Cable news channels, Howard Kurtz, hosted a fiery segment regarding the HuffPo receiving a heads up from the Obama Administration that the President would be calling on Pitney at his big presser. 
Rarely do I find myself defending the honor of Dana Milbank [...]

National Security is the singular issue where I just climb a tree.  I admit it.  I’m not a neocon.  I’m not a “national security” mom.  I am definitely not a dove.  Nor am I a hawk, or any other damn bird.  What I am: a supporter of the experts in our Clandestine service, our special forces, our CIA & FBI interrogators, the greater intelligence community - with special recognition for Great Britain, Israel & France.  Those folks - along with our active duty & reserve military - keep us alive, free and safe under the blanket that is the US Constitution.
President Barack Obama is a man of his word.  He said he would meet with dictators and tyrants “without preconditions.”  And so he has.  It’s all sweetness and light with his book club buddy Hugo Chavez.  It’s cigars all around with Cuba’s Castro Brothers.  It’s Imadinnerjacket and ready for drinks with Iran’s Ahmadinejead.  During the first YouTube debate, hosted by Anderson Cooper, Obama went on to say,”I think that it is a disgrace that we have not spoken to them…” (see video below)
Earlier this month, he authorized the disclosure of several Bush-era memos regarding torture.  Notably, formerVice President Cheney has also requested the release of memos demonstrating the intelligence we DID gather as a result of enhanced interrogations.  What is good for the goose is good for the gander. 
Also weighing in: former DCI Mike Hayden & former US AG Mike Mukasey, via an Op-Ed in the Wall Street Journal. (h/t Scott Stanzel)
The release of these opinions was unnecessary as a legal matter, and is unsound as a matter of policy. Its effect will be to invite the kind of institutional timidity and fear of recrimination that weakened intelligence gathering in the past, and that we came sorely to regret on Sept. 11, 2001.
Proponents of the release have argued that the techniques have been abandoned and thus there is no point in keeping them secret any longer; that they were in any event

Nice profile!

It can’t be all politics, all the time.  So… it’s time for something completely different.

On The Media Lizzy Show today, I’ll be talking with Vets for Freedom Chairman & Executive Director Pete Hegseth.  On tap: the G20 meeting, the Obama Administration’s deep Defense budget cuts, the new Commander-in-Chief’s visit to Iraq, and where America goes from here. 
Also, the Political Threesome rides again… I have AOL News’ Tommy Christopher and Caleb Howe all lined up for a raucous roundtable.  As in, did President Obama bow to Saudia Arabia’s King Abdullah? (The answer is yes but, Robert Gibbs & unnamed White House sources are telling you not to believe your lyin’ eyes)
All in all… it’s quite nice to be back in the saddle. 
—Media Lizzy
Show prep:

It’s intense, apocolyptic and seriously sci-fi.  I won’t pretend to understand the genre.  There are plenty of film critics that will dissect Nicolas Cage’s new film KNOWING.  It topped this weekend’s box office.  Our family enjoyed the amazing CGI effects, thought Cage was solid as ever - and even though the plot is rather unbelieveable… we liked it.
Something else cool happened though.  A couple of times, Nicolas Cage goes to his computer and on his desktop - is the AOL Hot Seat.  Along with about a dozen other folks, I am a contributor.  It goes by so fast that I couldn’t see which of us made the cut… but it was totally rockin! 
What’s cooler than that? The AOL Hot Seat made the trailer.
Knowing was worth the price of admission, and even a trip to the concession counter.  Can’t wait until its out on DVD, then maybe I’ll figure out which two AOL Hot Seat contributors made their big screen debut!!!!

Okay… back to the grind.
—Media Lizzy

Remember the days of Bush Derangement Syndrome. the really ugly days after Hurricane Katrina hit NoLa & the Gulf Coast?
You know, when the Democrat Governor Kathleen Blanco would not accept federal assistance until it was darn-near too late?  When she played politics with the lives of her people, but blamed everything on then-President George W. Bush?
And when he chose not to land, his critics screamed he hadn’t done the photo op? (Nevermind that he didn’t want to divert resources to his own security when the situation was so dire)
And when he made the remark that came to define the botched relief efforts in NoLa, “You’re doing a heckuva job, Brownie” - the Leftinistra, led by Rachel Maddow, went absolutely bat crazy.
Do I think the Bush administration handled the Katrina situation correctly? No.  But I also remember the facts.  The Democrat governor played politics with people’s lives, so that she could blame George W. Bush.  What happened in Lousiana after Katrina tells the real story.  Blanco was so disgraced that she could not even stand for reelection.  And Lousiana democrats lined up behind Republican Bobby Jindal and put him in office.  While I am not a big fan of Jindal’s when it comes to his presidential aspirations, he’s clearly been a competent and well-liked Governor.  presicisely because he cleaned up the mess left behind after Katrina.
Now… The CBO (Congressional Budget Office) has released it’s budget projections, (h/t: Jake Tapper) and we’re going to be $2 TRILLION in hock, thanks to Obama’s economic strategy.
In 2001, our national defecit stood at $5.6 Trillion.  When Obama got elected it was $9 Trillion.  (an increase of $3.4 Trillion over eight years)  Today, the federal defecit is $12.1 Trillion, and rising.  That’s an increase of $3.1 Trillion.  If you add Obama’s budget, we’re hovering at the same amount of money in 60 DAYS that Bush & the US Congress spent over EIGHT YEARS.
There has...

Today on NBC’s Meet the Press, the role of Clark Kent was played by GOP Whip Eric Cantor:

Yes. We. Cantor.
—Media Lizzy

The movement conservatives can keep Rush.  I’ve developed a fondness for Glenn Beck.  Less pompous, more practical, and since he’s a husband and father - I’m willing to bet… he understands the lives of average workers a whole lot better than most.

Agree or disagree with me, or with Beck - that’s cool.  But I think its worth a listen & a visit to Beck’s 9/12 Project. (as in September 12th, 2001_
—Media Lizzy

Sure, there is all kinds of catastrophic news.  The Dow is at 6,800.  Obama is ticking people off.  The RNC Chairman called Rush an entertainer, and Rush gave a pretty great speech at CPAC (yes, even I must admit that) and many other clouds are gathering on the horizon. 
However, as I work on some tech stuff for HeadingRight today (and especially tonight) - I thought it important to remind myself, and others that in reality… we Americans are an exceptionally lucky lot.  As are our friends in other Western countries, where essentially - our individual identities are not restricted. Hidden. Or beaten out of us. 
I have been, and continue to be, one of the luckiest folks in the world.  I am an American.  I am free.  And my future is to a great degree, entirely in my hands.  What’s the big deal?  Well, I am no different than any other American.  We won the lottery when it comes to citizenship.  Our government, however flawed and bureaucracy laden, still looks out for her people.  Do not let the politics of the moment or particular election cycle get in the way of the facts. Truth will out, and Obama’s mis-characterizations will eventually erode the sheen off that high wattage, beautiful, shiny enamel smile.
In the meantime, I think it is worth noting that love survives turbulent times.  And sometimes, love is so great that we do not feel the turbulence around us.  We are grounded by our spouse or fiance, mother or father, friend, uncle, aunt, cousin… and while the world spins on, the Dow plunges, and troops ready their return home from Iraq - or hundreds of other stations around the world… those of us waiting on the dock, or on the tarmac, preserve a quiet place for love to flourish. 
Whatever leads the news tonight, remember this too shall pass.  That does not mean we don’t work, take action, organize, posture and execute… it simply means that we must remember to turn to the ones we love and say thank you. I love you. And, how do we

The American Issues Project released this second ad, and - yes… it makes me happy.

—Media Lizzy

I truly am the luckiest girl in the world.  Thanks to my BOGO.
—Media Lizzy

Yeah, I like it.  I like it just. like. THIS:

—Media Lizzy

Thanks to Siggy for the video… important to note second chances when they come, and from where they emanate.  Especially in light of this email out of SaveDarfur earlier today:

The violence in Darfur is intensifying. A military standoff in one village is threatening the lives of more than 30,000 civilians.
This looming catastrophe makes it starkly clear: it’s time that President Obama names a point person with the stature, mandate and authority to take charge of US efforts to end the violence in Darfur.
Click here to tell President Obama to appoint an “owner” of U.S. Sudan policy immediately!
The Darfuri village of Muhajiriyah is under siege by a massive buildup of Sudanese military forces, poised to strike against any remaining rebel elements in the town. Innocent men, women and children are caught in the crossfire.
This may be the largest battle in Darfur in more than a year, and the civilian casualties could be massive. In another ominous sign, the Sudanese government has refused to allow more UN peacekeepers access to the town. The new administration must name a person to lead U.S. efforts to resolve the larger Darfur conflict this crisis represents.
Every day without progress toward peace is measured in lives lost, so we must act today.
Send a loud and clear message to the White House: appoint and empower a top official with the responsibility of ending the conflict in Darfur.
Our constituency of conscience has proven that it can be a catalyst for profound change when it gathers enough voices. So after you’ve taken action, please don’t forget to urge friends and family to send their own note to the president.
This is the moment. This is our chance to help end the genocide. We can’t afford to squander this opportunity.
Sincerely,
Suzie Armstrong
Save Darfur Coalition
The time for promises to be kept is here.  It’s not enough to appoint Susan Rice & Samantha Power into titled positions.  All the “hope” and “change” is mean...

Sure, Former DNC Chairman & Businessman Terry McAuliffe has to clear the decks in the Democratic primary.  Brian Moran & Creigh Deeds are grumpy Richmond-heavy fellas that don’t like the charming Mr. McAuliffe coming in and messing up their little “it’s my turn” party…. but so what?  If the establishment of either party were remotely competent - Hillary or McCain would have been president right now. 
So, let’s set that to the side.  Look, I am a Republican.  Once upon a time I was a Virginia voter… and much as I love the Fitzhugh Mafia - they best get Bob McDonnell up to speed, despite his status as sitting Attorney General - Terry McAuliffe is the happiest warrior on the Left.  He’s got more mojo in his smile than all the high wattage hope-n-change message of Barack Obama.  And… if Tim Kaine’s droll nature got elected… and Mark  Warner can ride the “Warner” coat-tails for the better part of the last decade…. Terry McAuliffe must be taken seriously.
Condescension has its place.  But so does tone.  Ideas matter.  Listening matters.  Get McDonnell outside of the Chesapeake box - get him out of the evangelical call-center - introduce him to the rest of Virginia.  You can bet Terry McAuliffe will be everywhere.
Below is his first TV ad.  Not a hint of his longtime authority in the ‘establishment.’   In the interest of full disclosure - I have met both gentlemen.  McDonnell in the trenches during the 2000 Campaign, and McAuliffe at The Caucus Room (the restaurant he & Haley Barbour were among original investors in) - along with then newly minted Senator George Allen, and the delightful then-Senator Fred Thompson - at a party hosted by Bill Maher… who was in town filming “Politically Incorrect” at Howard University. 
McDonnell is smart, serious, accomplished - former military man, devoted husband & father.  McAuliffe has been a partisan since age 22, when during the Carter campaig...

Since I’m in love… and will be on the road all day Saturday… here is what I’ve got cranked to 300 decibels. 

And if you happen to be grocery shopping today, look for the BOGO.  Nothing better.
—Media Lizzy
ps: told ya it was completely different.

Both 2006  and 2008 were wake-up calls to inside-the-beltway Republicans.  Some are not only loyal to the Ghost of Presidents Past, some are like the Rip Van Winkle of ideas.  But there is some great news.  A few haven’t been sleeping.  Or asking permission of the Scrooge-du-jour.
Call him the leader, or better yet… Call him The Whip.  Virginia Congressman Eric Cantor is branching out & getting on the New Media Train.  Last summer, I interviewed Cantor on US Energy Policy after Speaker Pelosi saw fit to shutter the House when Cantor & some of his colleagues wanted a full debate.  A few weeks later, Cantor returned to discuss Foreign Policy, with a focus on Israel and Iran. 
Now, Cantor is taking the lead on the Economy.  From The Whip’s office:
In response to President-elect Obama’s challenge to Republican Leaders on Monday, Republican Whip Eric Cantor (R-VA) today announced that he will invite top national experts and leaders to testify at a hearing next week to offer innovative ideas and solutions to help revitalize America’s economy. Families across America are facing unprecedented challenges, and House Republicans are committed to an open and transparent exchange of ideas to find the best approach to put America back on a path to prosperity.
Mr. Cantor also released the following statement:
“Our working group was formed in response to President-elect Obama’s request that Republicans offer ideas to help put American back on the path to prosperity.  On Thursday, we will hold a hearing, featuring top national experts, designed to foster an open dialogue that yields innovative approaches that meet the needs of working families and small businesses and put America back on the path to prosperity.” 
To achieve his goals, of bring the American people into the debate about OUR economy - Cantor has laid down a new media challenge:

Got Twitter?  Eric Cantor does too.  Just follow @EricCantor and @GOPWhip.  (While you are at it, follow me

Okay… I am all kinds of happy this morning.  US House Rep. Eric Cantor is officially the Republican Whip.  Doesn’t that just give you the tingles? Snnnaaaaapppp!!!!
Why?  Because - the one thing Obama was right about, “Change” is coming.  And now its here.  As the President-elect delivered an economic address in Fairfax, Virginia at George Mason University, I was reading up on the Stimulus Debate and getting a sense for where Eric Cantor is going to lead those of us interested in strengthening the Republican Party by learning from our past, and making goals for our common future. 
Once upon a time, I was a serious booster for Cantor to be on the McCain ticket - now, I realize how wonderful (and yes, you Fitzhugh Mafia boys were right) it is to have him on the Hill.  He will be our voice of reason - Cantor is the guy we want negotiating with Pelosi.  He’s the guy we want standing up to Pelosi.  We know she fears him… because she turned the lights out on the House floor the last time he took the fight to her.
Cantor also fits the bill in other ways.  He will be the Republican point man at the table with the Obama Administration.  Sure, Boehner and McConnell will be there… but neither of those gentlemen will make a bid for President in 2012, or 2016.  Cantor’s future is intertwined with that of a new generation of Republicans and conservatives - Gen Jones and Gen Xers - ascending into leadership and management roles in governance, media, and campaign management.  All across the corporate spectrum.  Think I’m wrong?  How many commercials now feature jingles that are sampled from the music we all grew up on? 
The past was just prologue.  With Obama just days away from the presidency, and Cantor poised to lead Republicans out of the wilderness —- I am more genuinely optimistic about America’s future than I have been in years.  No more business as usual.  No more Mr. Nice Guy.  And no more Miss Nice Citizen Journalist, either.
—M