By Pamela Gentry, Senior Political Analyst

Oct. 6, 2009 – Eight U.S. soldiers were killed near the Afghan and Pakistan border on Saturday just as President Obama, his national security team and his ground commanders plunged into the debate on  the next steps to take in the eight-year war. 

The conflict has intensified in recent months and so has the tension between the president and Congress.  This could be the reason Obama has invited members of Congress to the White House Tuesday for a briefing on Afghanistan.  

White House press secretary Robert Gibbs told reporters during Monday’s briefing, the president will “walk them through where we are in (the) process and solicit their views.”

Gibbs added, that the president has not made any decision as of yet on sending extra troops.  Lawmakers from both parties have been invited and Gibbs said the president’s meeting is to hear all opinions on the war.

Obama may find some Democrats a tough sell on sending more troops to the Afghanistan.  Some Dems were early opponents to the conflict that has lasted longer than expected and remains unpopular with those members of Congress firmly against an insurgency of troops in an already volatile,  dangerous territory. 

One outspoken longtime opponent, Rep. Barbara Lee (D-Calif.), is a member of a group of Democrats who have introduced legislation to the House of Representatives to block the deployment of any additional troops by prohibiting the use of funds to support troop increases.

Lee said, “As we consider the possibility of further entrenching United States Armed Forces by sending significantly more brave men and women in uniform into harm’s way, this legislation sends a clear message in opposition to this course of action.”

It’s really hard to tell who will have the most influence on the president’s decision.  But one thing is for sure, the U.S. commander in Afghanistan, General Stanley McChrystal, has publicly said he needs 40,000 more U.S. troops in Afghanistan to be successful. 

Let’s see if he gets what he wants.

Do you think we should send more troops to Afghanistan?

By Pamela Gentry, Senior Political Analyst

Sept. 4, 2009 – Black lawmakers want to get out in front of the president’s speech next week and have sent him a letter outlining what they don’t want to see “scaled back” in his plans to overhaul the health care system.

Sen. Barack Obama, D-Ill., meets with members of the Congressional Black Caucus on Thursday, June 19, 2008 on Capitol Hill in Washington. (Lauren Victoria Burke)

The letter sent Wednesday is signed by three members of the Congressional Black Caucus (CBC) who also serve on the Health and Wellness Task Force:  Representatives Barbara Lee (D-Calif.), Danny Davis (D-Ill.) and Donna M. Christensen .  They called on the president to “stress unwavering support ” during his address to Congress for the following:

1. Not  reducing cost:  “Reducing the overall cost of a budget-neutral bill is therefore unnecessary and not a strategy that we do or can support.” 

2. Support for a public option:  “A strong public health option that will allow the nation’s more than 46 million uninsured Americans – more than half of whom are people of color – to finally have access to affordable, meaningful health care coverage no later than 2013.”

3. Eliminating health care disparities: “A strong and demonstrative commitment from the White House to, in the days and weeks to come, use health care reform to achieve health equity.”

4. Equality for U.S. Territories:  “The nearly 5 million Americans who live in the U.S. Territories should benefit from health care reform in a manner that is equitable to those Americans who live within the 50 states and in the District of Columbia.”

5. Rewarding preventive health care services: “This strategy will not only allow the realization of true cost savings of prevention, health disparity elimination and other provisions, but it also will provide an avenue through which the savings generated can replace current [payment system].”

Lee, chairwoman of the Congressional Black Caucus, said the 43 members of the Caucus “are committed allies and partners in the fight to reform America’s broken health care system.”

It will be interesting to hear if any of these policy issues remain in the president’s new version he’ll unveil Sept. 9.  Throughout this debate members of the CBC have been outspoken on these issues and some have made it clear they will not support any legislation without a public option.

This could be a line in the sand for Obama and his former congressional colleagues.

Full Transcript: See the CBC’s Letter to Pres. Obama

By Pamela Gentry, Senior Political Analyst

Aug. 26, 2009 – Congressional condolences poured in from Black lawmakers when word Sen. Kennedy Edward (D-Mass.) had lost his battle with cancer and died Wednesday.  Kennedy is being remembered for his life’s work in the Senate by his colleagues, friends and sometimes even adversaries. 

But for Black lawmakers, “The Lion of the Senate” was always there for them when issues they cared deeply about needed a lions roar to be heard.   Members of the Congressional Black Caucus reflected on their friendship, respect and admiration of a man Rep. John Lewis (D-Ga.) called, “One of the finest, most dedicated, and committed political leaders of our time. “ 
 
Lewis, a Civil Rights advocated who marched alongside the Rev. Martin Luther King in the 1960’s has known Kennedy for close to 50 years.  “It has been my greatest pleasure to work with him in the Congress to try to tackle many human problems, but I am especially gratified by his contributions to the cause of civil rights and voting rights.” Lewis said in a statement. 
 
“He was a wonderful, devoted friend—so caring, so sharing, so giving.   I loved him like a brother,” Lewis said.

These sentiments along with condolences to Kennedy’s wife Vicki, his family, and their colleague Rep. Patrick Kennedy (D-R.I.) were found throughout their expressions of sympathy.  Here are excerpts of statements from members of the Congressional Black Caucus:

 
House Majority Whip James E. Clyburn (D-S.C.)
 
“America mourns the loss of a legendary leader and public servant, Senator Edward M. Kennedy.  His body of work spans a near half-century, but will live forever. He was the protector of the least of these and the champion of equal rights, equal justice and equal opportunity for all Americans.  Whether it’s civil rights, education, public health or a livable minimum wage, his work has improved American lives in a myriad of ways.  
 
As we move forward with health reform legislation, his absence will be palpable.  But let us use his inspirational words as our guide, to rise to our best ideals and finally provide decent quality health care to all Americans as a fundamental right, not a privilege.”

 
Rep. Barbara Lee (D-Calif.), Chairwoman of the Congressional Black Caucus

 
“Today we mourn the loss of a man whose life has shown us the true meaning of ‘to whom much is given much is required.’ Ted Kennedy always showed great compassion for those less fortunate and dedicated his life to improving the lives of others throughout the world.
 
“His body of work spans a near half-century, but will live forever. He was the protector of the least of these and the champion of equal rights, equal justice and equal opportunity for all Americans.  Whether it’s civil rights, education, public health or a livable minimum wage, his work has improved American lives in a myriad of ways.”  
 

Rep. William Lacy Clay (D-Mo.)

“My father [Rep. William Lacy Clay, Sr.] and I revered Ted Kennedy as a friend and colleague. We send our thoughts and prayers to his wonderful family who must bear this terrible burden.

America has lost a magnificent public servant and I have lost a dear friend. “

Rep. Marcia L. Fudge (D-Ohio)

“He was and will always be one of the single most important public figures in American history for his courage to unfailingly stand for what was right. 

Sen. Kennedy was a champion for justice, advocate for the vulnerable, and proponent of equality. Our Nation is demonstrably better for his selfless contributions and commitment to the public good.”

 
Rep. Robert C. “Bobby” Scott (D- Va.)

“Last year, in spite of his personal health challenges, Senator Kennedy worked tirelessly to elect Barack Obama our nation’s 44th President, because he felt President Obama embodied the same spirit, hopes and dreams that the Kennedys have represented for over a generation.  His absence on Capitol Hill will be especially felt as Congress and President Obama work towards one of his most important life goals – providing affordable access to health care for all Americans.” 

 
 Delegate Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-D.C.)

“I will miss Ted’s partnership, particularly on the most important District issues.  Ted was always there with us and for us.  No matter how deep the controversy – from public funds for public schools to our struggle for D.C. Statehood, and when statehood was not then possible, for the House and Senate vote, and today for the D.C. House Voting Rights Act of 2009 we are so close to achieving.  Although ill in Massachusetts, he was the first to call to assure me of his continued work on D.C. voting rights, and he continued to help us during his absence from the Senate.  “
 

Rep. Kendrick B. Meek  (D-Fla.)
 
“Senator Kennedy did not simply live for the Senate – he was the heart of the Senate.  Respected by all of his colleagues, Senator Kennedy’s thoughtfulness, conviction and passion were attached to signature pieces of legislation that have profoundly shaped our nation for the better.  From strengthening the quality of education for our students, to improving the quality of health care for our seniors, to ensuring equality and civil rights for all Americans, Senator Kennedy was a leader unparalleled in our nation.”
 
Rep. Elijah E. Cummings (D-Md.)

“Today, I join the world in mourning the loss of a man who will forever be a true American hero. For decades, Senator Kennedy has been a stalwart in our community, fighting for our children, for our seniors, and for the best interests of millions of families across the nation. Through his last day, we witnessed in him the same courage, determination, and selfless service that have characterized his constant efforts to lift up the lives of all Americans.”

Rep. Diane Watson (D-Calif.)

“The world mourns the enormous loss of Senator Edward M. Kennedy, a giant among public servants, and the last of a generation of Kennedy brothers who leave a peerless legacy of public service.   With his passing, Camelot’s flag furls at half-mast for the lion and closes an era of vast accomplishments.

Kennedy immersed himself into the cause of public service. In the U.S. Senate he found his passion, his voice, and his work. He committed himself to establishing a safety net that guarantees the protection and welfare of Americans.”

By Pamela Gentry, Senior Political Anaylst

Aug. 17, 2009 — The president’s stance on the public option under health care reform may be wavering, but not with Black lawmakers.  After reports the public option might be off the table, the chairwoman of the Congressional Black Caucus released the following statement:  

“Any bill without a public health insurance plan like Medicare is not health reform,” Rep. Barbara Lee (D-Calif.) wrote.

“The Congressional Black Caucus remains committed to ensuring that health reform is meaningful and that means making sure a public option is part of the package.”
 

“Without a public option there will be no way to keep insurance companies honest and their rates down. A public health option that competes with private insurers will set standards that could help lower costs and improve access.”

Rep. Maxine Waters (D-Calif.) agrees. “I am very troubled to hear that after months of negotiations – supposedly moving toward meaningful health care reform – the public option may in fact be off the table.  

“As I have said before, particularly in conjunction with my colleagues in the Congressional Progressive Caucus, I will not be able to support a health care reform bill that does not guarantee the creation of a public option that will provide an alternative for the 47 million uninsured Americans and millions more who face rising premiums, deductibles and co-pays.”

Rep. Chaka Fattah (D-PA) said he doesn’t want reform derailed by confusion.  “Simply put, an option is an opportunity; and a public option is a patient opportunity. Consumers must be given the option to make an informed decision about their own health care. A public option merely expands a patient’s ability to choose,” he said.  

Rep. Hank Johnson (D-Ga.) wrote, “The public option would be minimal regulation, which would ensure that most of the 47 million people who are uninsured would have access to health coverage. The public option is not going to run the insurance companies out of business. Why should we take half measures that do not accomplish the desired result?”

The  president is sure to have more support move away if the public option is a deal breaker.

By Pamela Gentry, Senior Political Analyst

July 8, 2009 – Visitors to the U.S. Capitol will now learn another important part of history about one of the most recognizable building in the world: slave labor made its construction possible. 

Tuesday the House passed a bill directing the Architect of the Capitol to place a marker acknowledging the role slave labor played in building the Capitol.  The marker will be placed in Emancipation Hall in the Visitors Center.

The bill was sponsored by Rep. John Lewis, (D-Ga.) with 25 co-sponsors, [the majority of them African-American] and passed 399 – 1.

Rep. Barbara Lee (D-Calif.), chairwoman of the Congressional Black Caucus said, “It is fitting that the history of the Capitol’s construction be accurately told to include recognition of the African-American slaves who struggled to erect this massive building brick by brick, stone by stone.”

The historical significance of slave labor in the construction of the Capitol and The White House has been under discussion for several years.  Congress first directed the Architect of Capitol to study the contributions of slaves in December 2004 and requested a report back in 180 days.

Researchers discovered records by the Commissioners responsible for tracking the cost of construction.  The records indicated hundreds of local residents, slave owners, were paid fees for the work done by their slaves. 

 “By properly recognizing the contributions of those slaves who built the Capitol, we bring all Americans closer to an understanding of the continuing evolution of our democracy,” Lee added.  

Now the landmark building built by slaves has 43 African-American members walking its halls.

President Obama announces Judge Sonia Sotomayor as U.S. Supreme Court Nominee in the East Room of the White House.

By Pamela Gentry, Senior Political Analyst

 May 26, 2009 – President Barack Obama’s selection of Judge Sonia Sotomayor will place the first American with Puerto Rican heritage on the path to the U.S. Supreme Court. 

Sotomayor’s childhood and the obstacles she faced may connect with the American people.  Her humble background with working class immigrant parents could be one of the reasons Sotomayor was a standout pick from the list of 40 names – that was narrowed to four over the past weeks according to White House officials.

I was able to confirm at least one African American made “a list” but not the final four.

But it looks like the selection of Sotomayor is going over well with Black lawmakers. Chairwoman of the Congressional Black Caucus, Barbara Lee (D-Calif.) released a statement applauding the nomination. 

 “As the first Latina nominated to the Supreme Court, Judge Sonia Sotomayor brings brilliance and a common sense understanding of how the law practically works in the lives of all Americans and has repeatedly shown a commitment to the Constitutional values that are the bedrock of our nation,” Lee said.

House Majority Whip James Clyburn (D-S.C.) called Sotomayor a “superb pick.”

 “The President has demonstrated that he is dedicated to nominating justices who have life experiences that will enable them to both sympathize and empathize with all Americans,” Clyburn said.

The East Room was packed Tuesday morning for the announcement. This was one of the largest turnouts by White House senior and support staff I’ve witnessed. 

It was a who’s who of the Latino and Black communities.  Among the guests I spotted civil rights activist Rev. Al Sharpton, NAACP president Benjamin Todd Jealous, executive director of the Urban League Mark H. Morial and Wade Henderson, CEO of the Civil Rights Conference of Civil Rights.

Sotomayor graduated from Princeton University and Yale Law School and worked as a city prosecutor and corporate litigator before donning the black robe.  Both of her early career moves developed the skills White House officials point to as her added asset to the high court:  Once Justice David Souter retires no other justice remaining on the court has trial law experience.

“I stand on the shoulders of countless people, yet there is one extraordinary person who is my life aspiration. That person is my mother, Celina Sotomayor.”  Following roaring applause, Sotomayer added,  “My mother has devoted her life to my brother and me. And as the president mentioned, she worked often two jobs to help support us after dad died. I have often said that I am all I am because of her, and I am only half the woman she is.”

The president praised the 54-year-old jurist for her accomplishments. “It’s a career that has given her not only a sweeping overview of the American judicial system, but a practical understanding of how the law works in the everyday lives of the American people,” Obama said. 

Sotomayor, born in the South Bronx, comes to this nomination from Second Circuit where she was appointed by President Clinton.  Her first appointment to the District Court of southern District of New York was by President George H.W. Bush.

By Pamela Gentry, Senior Political Analyst

March 10, 2009 – President Obama lifted the ban on funding embryonic stem cell research and lifted the hopes of millions of African Americans suffering with diabetes, cancer, and Parkinson’s disease.  

Fulfilling one of his campaign promises, Obama told a crowd of 150 advocates, scientists and lawmakers, “With the executive order I am about to sign, we will bring a change that so many scientists and researchers, doctors and innovators, patients and loved ones have hoped for, and fought for, these past eight years.”

Black lawmakers applauded the president’s move.

“We know that our population is aging.  Debilitating chronic diseases like cancer, Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, and diabetes are becoming far more common,” said Rep. Barbara Lee (D-Calif.), chairwoman of the Congressional Black Caucus. ”Diabetes in particular is a huge problem, and like many other diseases, disproportionately affects minority communities. Expanding the number of embryonic stem cell lines available for research will assist scientists in developing therapeutic treatments and cures for diabetes and many other diseases.”

Obama said the policy shift from the Bush administration was needed to “restore scientific integrity to government decision making.” In 2001, Bush put a policy in place that would not allow funding for a number of stem cell lines derived from embryos. By doing so, he crippled researchers’ ability to move a great deal of research forward.

Critics charge the use of stem cells is “morally wrong” because it encourages the destruction of a human life.  Some even believe it could lead to treating human beings as products that can be harvested for scientific experimentation.  The president promised strict ethical guidelines on any research funded with federal dollars.

“We will support it only when it is both scientifically worthy and responsibly conducted.  We will develop strict guidelines, which we will rigorously enforce, because we cannot ever tolerate misuse or abuse,” he vowed.

“And we will ensure that our government never opens the door to the use of cloning for human reproduction.  It is dangerous, profoundly wrong, and has no place in our society, or any society,” Obama said.

Along with the executive order to lift the ban on stem cell research, the president also issued a memorandum calling for scientific evidence as the litmus test for research and not political ideology.   

By Pamela Gentry, BET News 

Feb. 12, 2009 – Republican Sen. Judd Gregg of New Hampshire told the White House to count him out for the post of
commerce secretary and withdrew his nomination on Thursday.

It seems his displeasure for taking the job may be two-fold, the first concern is he won’t be heading the point agency for handling the 2010 census; the second concern was his inability to sign-on and vote for the stimulus package just passed in the Senate.

But the fact that Gregg’s roll would be lessen when it came to the counting Americans in 2010 appears to be biggest stumbling block.  His GOP colleagues in the House criticized plans for increased White House involvement.

While the White House decides whose next for what has become the most difficult cabinet post to fill, Black lawmaker’s bid Gregg good- riddance.  “Gregg’s withdrawal is welcome news to Black and Latino groups who questioned his commitment to the Census Bureau given his past record in seeking to limit agency funding, “ Rep. Barbara Lee, (D-Calif.) said in a statement.

Lee, chairwomen of the Congressional Black Caucus hopes someone is names quickly. “Lawmakers worry it could create several more weeks of uncertainty and delay in naming a new Census director who is sorely needed to get to work in ensuring a fair and accurate count.”

Gregg said he had “irresolvable conflicts” on issues with the administrations and felt it better he step aside.  Lee said, In light of this, we feel that his decision to withdraw is in the best interest of all parties.”

Were you counted in the 2000 Census?

By Pamela Gentry, Senior Political Anaylst

Jan. 27, 2009 – President Barack Obama opened his first full week with issuing two Executive Orders calling for more stringent fuel economy standards by 2011 and setting emissions standards lowering greenhouse gases.  

By signing these memorandums the president removed the road blocks placed on states to legislate stricter limits on vehicles carbon dioxide emissions.  Under the Bush administration California was denied the right to require higher standards.  “America will not be held hostage to dwindling resources,” Obama said to those gathered in the East Room.

California’s application for a waiver last year was blocked by the Environmental Protection Agency under the Bush administration. If this request by California is approved by the EPA, more than 12 states could follow suit and introduce tougher state standards than federal requirements.

Rep. Barbara Lee (D-Calif.) released a statement applauding Obama’s actions. “As a longtime supporter of California’s bold agenda to reduce greenhouse gas emissions I am pleased by today’s announcement, which sends a clear signal from the Obama Administration regarding their commitment to work in concert with pioneering efforts at the municipal and state level in the fight against climate change.”

The president also directed the Department of Transportation to get busy with the auto makers by imposing an 18 month timeline to improve fuel efficiency standards by 2011.
 

Before the day ended the Senate approved New York Federal Reserve Bank President Timothy Geithner as treasury secretary with a vote 60-34.  The vote was closer than expected, but Geithner was confirmed Monday evening and the president moved quickly to have him sworn in.  “Tim’s work will begin at once. We can’t waste a day,” Obama said, standing beside Geithner as Vice President Joe Biden delivered the oath.
 

By Pamela Gentry, Senior Political Analyst

Jan. 17, 2009 – It’s official: the newly appointed African-American Sen. Roland Burris (D-Ill.) is not only a member of the Senate, but is now a member of the Congressional Black Caucus.  And like his predecessor the only Black lawmaker in the Senate. 

California Rep. Barbara Lee (D), chairwomen of the caucus and I spoke Friday and she told me following Burris’s swearing Wednesday:  “I invited him and he accepted,” she said. 

Lee had authored a letter early in the week on behalf of lawmakers requesting Burris be sworn-in.  While the controversy of his appointment was centered on embattled Illinois Gov. Rod Blagojevich, the caucus felt the appointment was valid and  Burris should be seated.

The 111th Congress will mark a historical number of Black lawmakers’ in House leadership positions.   Fifteen subcommittee chairs and four committees will be chaired by African-American.  “It’s our moment – and our agenda continues to be the conscience of the Congress,” Lee told me.   

Lee said the swearing in of the 44th president will take place just as the caucus celebrates its 40th anniversary.  “We’ll continue on the mission of equity and justice,” she said.

  On a personal note, Lee said as President Barack Obama is being sworn in, she can’t help but remember those who made it possible.  “Obama didn’t just happen overnight, our ancestors before us made it possible” she said.

“My mom couldn’t enter the hospital to deliver me; growing up during segregation I remember my father, a member of the service, not being allowed in restaurants,” she re-called.  “This [inauguration] is an exciting moment – we owe them a debt of gratitude.”