Happy Easter from Colorado

PPPS (Morrison, CO)—Happy East from the Sunrise Service at Red Rocks Amphitheatre. (click to enlarge any of the photographs). God bless.

6AM - Some are a bit sleepy but venue is almost full by start of service.

The stage as the service begins.

Ready for the sun (son) rise, 10,000 + worshipers.

After the service - Red Rocks Amphitheatre (stage is at photo center)

Red rocks and the moon.

The setting - red rocks of the Fountain formation and foothills backdrop.

Related Articles:
Denver Post Photo Essay - March 31, 2013

Political-Beat Pete Asks Tough Question of Jay Carney at WH Press Briefing

PPPS (The White House)--At today's White House Press Briefing, our own Political-Beat Pete, after waiting patiently in back with hand raised, finally walked up near the front of the room when it was time for the last question, and asked Press Secretary Jay Carney whether he would take a question from Colorado. He agreed to accept one more question.

White House Press Briefing - March 18, 2013 (PPPS photo)

 

Pete's question was a follow-up to one asked earlier by April Ryan of American Urban Radio Networks about a lack of appointments to the President's Cabinet of minorities. It was the following (paraphrased for now):

As a followup to the question asked by the woman earlier, with very high unemployment in the black community, and when there are government workers who may be furloughed, and there are millions of other Americans unemployed, and families whose budgets have been cut, how does the President justify lavish vacations and a golf trip to Florida at taxpayer expense? Does he plan to cut back on his travel?

After asking the initial question, and as Carney tried to spin out of answering it, Pete interrupted him in good journalist fashion a couple of times. Mr. Carney was doing press secretary gymnastics and was describing how GOP efforts to reduce spending would reduce funds to the sick and elderly when Pete brought the question back to the high rate of unemployment for young people who are black (again, this is a paraphrase for now). Of course, Pete's efforts were in vain, and Secretary Carney never really answered the question of whether or not the President would cut down on his travel going forward.

Pete got into the White House Press Briefing room after calling for a press pass. He had been told the wrong time for the press briefing and, therefore, only arrived near the end. Then, a seasoned journalist advised Pete to move up and stand along the wall closer to the front. After the man standing next to Pete was granted the last question, Pete was pretty disappointed.

Pete just inside the White House gate w/ his new press pass.

But then just as the Secretary answered the "last question", Pete interjected boldly, "Would you take a question from Colorado?"....and the rest is history.

We will post a copy of our YouTube video of Pete's question and response, as well as a link to the CSPAN recording, which should be available this evening. Pete's question comes near the end of the White House Press Briefing.

Update: Here is the Pundit Pete Press Service Video:

Transcription from the White House Briefing Room (note that Press Secretary Carney fails to even remotely answer Pete's questions):

Q    One question from Colorado.

MR. CARNEY:  From Colorado, sure.

Q    All right.  I wanted to follow up on this young woman’s question about the high unemployment out in places like Colorado, all around the country, especially in the minority communities -- exceptionally high unemployment.  And when there is government workers who may be furloughed, millions of Americans unemployed, and family budgets that have been cut, how does the President justify lavish vacations and a golf trip to Florida at taxpayer expense?  And does he plan to cut back on his travel?

MR. CARNEY:  I can tell you that this President is focused every day on policies that create economic growth and help advance job creation.  We have presided over the past three years over an economy that’s produced over 6.3 million private sector jobs, and we have more work to do.  And this President’s number-one priority is growth and job creation.  When you come to --

Q    But it’s not working in the minority communities.

MR. CARNEY:  Well, the fact is unemployment has come down.  It has not come down nearly enough.  And what we need to do is embrace policies that advance job creation, make secure the middle class, and create ladders of opportunity for those who aspire to the middle class.  We certainly do not need to embrace economic policies that shift the entire burden of deficit reduction onto senior citizens, middle-class families, Medicaid recipients.  The proposal coming out of the House would slash Medicaid by a third.

Q    But it doesn’t affect inner-city jobs.

MR. CARNEY:  It doesn’t?  You don’t think it does?

Q    No.

MR. CARNEY:  People who depend on Medicaid to help take care of their kids who are disabled.  People who depend on Medicaid to take care of their parents who are in nursing homes.  People who are not in the middle class but aspire to it, who depend directly on Medicaid.  I think you need to examine what the Medicaid program actually does.

 Why Was Pete At the White House Anyway?

As Chief White House Correspondent for the Pundit Pete Press Service, Pete of course is no stranger to the White House Press Briefing Room. But, having lost his press credentials a while back because of a change in attitude and a book project he was working on, Pete could only return on a one-day pass. And what is that book project you might ask? Well it's Pete's first, soon-to-be-released book: Is Journalism Finally Dead? - An Insider's Revealing Look at the White House Press Corpse.

Check it out.

On another note:

As Political-Beat Pete was leaving the Northwest Gate to the White House, he encountered another gentleman who was leaving, one who was perhaps a bit more familiar with the White House than Pete. It was Richard Trumka, President of the AFL-CIO labor union.

When Pete asked Mr. Trumka, if like Pete, it was his first visit to the White House, Mr. Trumka lied and said yes.

Or perhaps he misunderstood Pete to ask if it was his first visit to the White House this week. It was Monday, after all.

Related News Articles:

No Plans for Obama to Cut Back on Lavish Vacations and Travel - Katie Pavlich - Townhall 
 
Dodge of the Day: Reporter asks Jay Carney if Obama plans to cut back on lavish vacations and golf trips - Doug Powers at Michelle Malkin

Reporter Asks Carney: Will Obama Cut Back on Lavish Vacations, Golf Trips? - The Weekly Standard

Will Obama Cut Back on ‘Lavish Vacations’ Due to Sequester Cuts, Furloughs? Hear Jay Carney’s Evasive Answer - The Blaze

Pete can be seen asking his question on the left side of this video interview with Dr. Ben Carson shown on Hannity on FoxNews. Pete's question and comments start at  minute 04:55 on the video: Interview with Ben Carson

Here is the press briefing on CSPAN - Pete's question start at minute 39:12 (Pete is off to the left).

Fellow Colorado Blogger Michelle Morin  carried the story. 

Shameless Advertising Section
I used my Samsung Infuse cell phone (1.5 yrs old) to make the video in this story. Pretty good sound and video quality, huh? I'm pretty sure the newer Samsung Galaxy S III  phones are as good or better.

Filibuster Fever in the DC Swamp

Drone Wars (ABC News)

PPPS (Washington)—For nearly 13 hours yesterday, Senator Rand Paul (R-Kentucky) held the Senate floor, and the nation's rapt attention, as he filibustered the nomination of John Brennen for Director of the CIA.

C-Span had it's longest, and most-watched program in years, and the Twitterverse was dominated last night, and still is this morning, by #StandWithRand.

The issue, of course, was not John Brennen, but Attorney General Eric Holder's response to a letter sent to him in January by Senator Paul regarding the question of whether the Administration could use drones to kill American citizens on American soil.

Rather than the obvious responses of "No!" or "Hell No, that would be unconstitutional!", the Attorney General instead finally responded on Monday in a letter with a vague and evasive answer. Here is the a part of that letter.

The question you have posed is therefore entirely hypothetical, unlikely to occur, and one we hope no President will ever have to confront. It is possible, I suppose, to imagine an extraordinary circumstance in which it would be necessary and appropriate for the President to authorize the military to use lethal force within the territory of the United States.

Rand Paul responded by going to the floor of the Senate and speaking up, beginning at 11:47 AM yesterday.

People across the nation were soon watching on C-Span2, gaining an education about Senate filibuster procedures and the constitution, reminiscent of the famous movie Mr. Smith Goes to Washington.  The real version was easily as entertaining as the movie, with thousands, perhaps millions, unable to leave their TV sets or the live-stream on their computers and mobile devices. It was history in the making, live and unfiltered by the liberal press.

Next door, in a Senate hearing room, Senator Ted Cruz grilled Attorney General Holder about his letter and the drone issue, finally eliciting a reluctant and tepid no on the issue.

Senators Cruz, Lee and Rubio took turns relieving Senator Rand for brief periods on the Senate floor, entertaining viewers with their own statesmanlike and educational lectures on the constitutional issues at hand. They were joined by Senator Ron Wyden, a Democrat from Oregon. Other Republican Senators showed up as well, spurred by #StandWithRand fever, and perhaps some gentle prodding from constituents.

Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid made a brief appearance in hopes that he could derail the filibuster before more American viewers could join in the fun. Democratic Senator Dick Durban, to his credit, stayed on and posed a few questions. And, although Durbin's questions were intended to deflect the issue away from the President, he actually made a few cogent points, which Senator Paul acknowledged, then quickly demolished in his responses.

Senator Ron Johnson, delayed by dinner with the President, showed up near the end at midnight to provide a scathing but educational history of the  intransigence on budget issues displayed in Senator Reid's leadership over the past four years.

The most fun though, could be found on Twitter, where millions worldwide were cheering Senator Paul to keep going. Here are tweet samples from yesterday, last night and this morning found under hashtag #StandWithRand.

Freedom First ‏@MrsFreedomFirst

Thank you! @SenRandPaul Thank you! Thank you! Thank you! Thank you! Thank you! #StandWithRand Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!

Campaign for Liberty ‏@C4Liberty

RT if you #StandwithRand in demanding answers from the White House on unconstitutional drone strikes in US.

You will learn more about Constitution form #StandWithRand filibuster than any knowledge dispensed by our law professor President

Without a teleprompter, for 9 1/2 hours and #RandPaul has yet to drone on like the President does in every speech. #StandWithRand

Don't care if they've adjourned. Still standing and clapping for @SenRandPaul a great Patriot! #StandWithRand

On Nov 6 and each day since the flame of liberty has grown dimmer. Last night, someone brought a torch to the party. #StandWithRand

Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez Dies - U.S. Selects Special Envoy to Attend Funeral

PPPS (Washington and Caracas)—With the shocking and unexpected death of Hugo Chavez, President (for life) of Venezuela, the world of Latin American diplomacy has been been thrust to the forefront of the many issues facing President Obama this week.

The diplomatic relationship between our two great countries has been turbulent, and it is important to carefully select an envoy to represent the U.S. at the Venezuelan state funeral in Caracas.

Our sources in the White House and U.S. State Department tell us that a lively debate ensued overnight in the White House situation room, overseen by the President himself.

Normally, with the death of a foreign leader, the vice president is sent. But for the following two safety reasons, that option was not available:  

1. The Venezuelan Government's accusation that the U.S. injected Chavez with terminal cancer creates a concern for Vice President Biden's safety.
2. If Vice President Biden were allowed to speak or give advice in the murder capitol of the Western Hemisphere (Caracas), it might further endanger the Venezuelan People.

With the vice president unable to attend, the diplomatic duties normally fall to the secretary of state. However, in the aftermath of Secretary of State Kerry's recent remarks in Germany, and the sensitive issue of freedom of speech in a country reeling from the fall of a dictator, the decision was made by President Obama to forego this option as well.

At times like these, President Obama often turns to his friends in Hollywood to help convey important messages by sending them to meet with foreign dignitaries.

Sean Penn & Hugo Chavez

Our sources indicate that the President personally telephoned Actor Sean Penn late last night to offer his condolences on the passing of Penn's buddy and to offer him the job of Special Envoy to represent the American People at the funeral of President Hugo Chavez. Although he said that he was honored, reportedly, and was already planning to attend, Mr. Penn said that he was too overcome with grief to handle any official duties.

Dennis Rodman on ABC's This Week

Next, President Obama considered appointing U.S. Representative Jose Serrano. However, Special Adviser to the President Valerie Jarrett is rumored to have stepped in and offered up the name of a recent envoy to another troubled country, Dennis Rodman. After a lively discussion in the Situation Room overnight, all parties eventually took Jarrett's suggestion, and President Obama put his seal of approval on the pick, then phoned Rodman.

Early this morning, the White House and State Department simultaneously released this official announcement:

In recognition of the special relationship between our two countries and in acknowledgement of the enormous grief of the People of Venezuela, President Barack Obama appoints Mr. Dennis Rodman as Special Envoy of the United States of America to attend the state funeral of Great Leader President Hugo Chavez.

Dennis demonstrating hug technique.

PPPS correspondent Protester Pete caught up with Dennis Rodman early this mornig as he was rushing to attend an interview at a major network studio. Special Envoy Rodman offered these hasty remarks on his new appointment.

"I never met the dude, but I've always considered Hugo as a personal friend. We're both big baseball fans.  So, yeah, I'll go represent our country. Plus, I give great hugs."


Related Story:
Representative Barbara Lee of California reportedly turned down an offer to attend the Hugo Chavez funeral as part of the U.S. delegation because she will be attending  as a personal representative of Cuban President Fidel Castro, who may be too ill to travel.

Note: Pedro Pete, PPPS Latin American Correspondent also contributed to this article.

Remembering Andrew Breitbart Today

PPPS (Littleton)—Today we honor Andrew Breitbart, journalist and publisher, who spoke truth to power in a most confounding way (as perceived by the left), and who died on this day, one year ago.

Pundit Pete photo 2012

Pundit Pete got to meet Andrew at the BlogBash party in Washington, DC during the 2012 CPAC conference. It was just two weeks before Andrew died.

I confronted Andrew at the party (just after I took this photo) saying, "I want you to know that I resent the way you are always making liberals uncomfortable!"

U.S. To Deploy New Weapon in Cyber War With China

PPPS (Washington)—Our sources at the Pentagon indicate the the U.S. may be about to deploy a new weapon in the escalating Cyber War with the Chinese government. Apparently, deployment is only waiting on President Obama's final approval.

Photo courtesy of Pentagon Pete

Citizen Asks Tough Question of Most Transparent Administration In History, Gets Opaque Answer

Kira Davis

PPPS (Littleton)—A citizen from California, Kira Davis, asked a probing question of President Obama yesterday about his 2008 promise of transparency, and got a decidedly muddled (some might say opaque) response. The President did point out, however, that his was "the most transparent administration in history."

Kira's question was part of the fourth annual Google Plus Fireside Hangout With President Obama, in which a few selected citizens get to interact with and pose questions of the President via video link online.

In her last question to the President, Ms. Davis asked how the President had been honoring his 2008 campaign promise to bring transparency to the White House, in light of certain recent examples to the contrary, including the administration's handling of the Benghazi incident.

The President pointed out to Ms. Davis that "This is the most transparent administration in history", and a short clip of this quote appeared last evening on Bret Baier's Fox News Special Report, and at online news sites (although those sites failed to identify the questioner as Ms. Davis).

The President went on to gently explain to Citizen Davis how national security issues sometimes affect transparency, and added:

"Benghazi, by the way is not a good example of that. That was largely driven by campaign stuff, because everything about that... we've had more testimony and more paper provided to Congress than ever before. And Congress is sort of running out of things to ask."

That response must have fully cleared up the Benghazi issue, because the moderator moved on to another citizen, without offering Citizen Davis an opportunity for a follow-up. Here is a video of Ms. Davis' question and the President's full response.

One of our loyal readers, Citizen Pete, who was monitoring the discussion live online, sent in his own follow-up question to the President, which he shared with PPPS.

Mr. President, first of all, I want to commend you on the restraint you used, and on the restraint of other officials in your administration, to successfully prevent what was clearly a bi-partisan issue of national security from becoming a partisan issue in the 2012 Presidential Campaign, as those on the far right and in the Tea Party wanted it to be. With your administration's focus on the more difficult problem of preventing the proliferation of insulting videos, you rose above partisan politics.

My question to you, sir, in light of the fact that on the evening of September 11, 2012, while the Benghazi Consulate was under attack, and the whereabouts of our Libyan Ambassador Chris Stevens was unaccounted for over a period of several hours, the American citizens still do not have an answer to this question: Where were YOU and what were you doing?

Unfortunately, Citizen Pete's emailed question was never asked. Perhaps a member of the White House Press Corpse will pose Pete's question at the next Presidential press conference.

At the beginning of the Google+ Hangout (minute 2:52 in the full session video), Citizen Davis asked a question about gun control. She pointed out that FBI crime statistics clearly show that the vast majority of gun violence is committed with handguns, not assault rifles, and then asked if the President wanted to ban handguns. 

The President responded by saying that he didn't want to ban handguns and that other programs he was proposing, such as increased background checks and other measures, would reduce gun violence, although he admitted that we could never do away with it completely. The President offered this more detailed goal:

"We're talking about making sure we're cracking down on straw purchases."

The President did not elaborate on whether he was proposing a new solution to "crack down" on straw gun purchases, or was planning to expand the existing government program nicknamed Fast and Furious.

We encourage our readers to view the entire enlightening question and answer session using this online link.

More information about Ms. Davis is available on her website and video channel.

Breaking: Could Kira Davis be an Administration plant?

It should be noted that there are some who question whether "so called" citizens who appear in video conferences or townhall meetings with the President could in fact be government employees or campaign workers placed there by the administration.

Our crack team of PPPS researchers has uncovered this official video from one year ago which suggests that "Citizen" Kira Davis may work for the U.S. State Department. Check back for updates as we continue to investigate this matter.

A New Book the DC Media Elite Won't Want You to Read

PPPS (Washington)—The Pundit Pete Press Service is proud to announce the pending release of a  new book which the mainstream media elite won't want you to read.

Is Journalism Finally Dead? was written by our own Chief White House Correspondent, Political-Beat Pete, and published by the PPPS in conjunction with Meadowlark Press.

Pre-release sales put the book near the top of the New York Times Best-Seller List just two weeks ago, until it was mysteriously de-listed.

See what others are saying about Is Journalism Finally Dead? - An Insider's Revealing Look at the White House Press Corpse.

“It’s self-evident that journalism is dead. And the President appreciates that.” —Jay Carney, White House Press Secretary

New 2-26-13 “Pete's book has awakened me to get back in the game and speak truth to power.” —Bob Woodward, Washington Post

“With this book, I think Pete may be rendering a great service to our profession. Just don’t tell him I said that.” —Chris Wallace, Fox News Sunday

“I’m actually quite shocked that Pete would write such a disturbing piece of fiction. Until now, I never suspected him of being racist.” —Andrea Mitchel, NBC News Chief Foreign Affairs Correspondent

“I’m now removing Pete from my List of Slobbering Journalists.” —Bernie Goldberg, Author and Fox News Analyst

New 2-25-13 “I'm saddened to see Pete fall for the Myth of anti-conservative bias in the Mainstream Media, though I'm honored he devoted an entire chapter to me.” —Chuck Todd, Chief White House Correspondent, NBC News 

“With his first book, Pete has driven a stake straight through the heart of the Media Elite.” —Tucker Carlson, The Daily Caller

“Pete is someone I really look up to at the Press Service. Too bad he’ll lose his press credentials because of this book.” —Protester Pete, PPPS Junior Reporter

New 2-23-13 “If the media in this country weren't so damned corrupt, they would nominate Pete for a Pulitzer. . . . . There, I said it. So sue me.” —Mark Levin, author & radio show host

New 2-27-13 “I used to refer to The Dominant Liberal Establishment Mass Media. Now, I'll just use the term Press Zombies.” —Mike Rosen, talk show host, 850 KOA

“No comment.” —Washington Post, New York Times, Associated Press, CNN, ABC, NBC, PBS, CBS, NPR, Politico, Al Jazeera

 
Coming Soon:  
French, Spanish, Arabic and Chinese translation editions. And the
Special Low Information Voter Edition

Zombies in the White House

Check back for Updates and Exclusive Chapter Excerpts in the coming weeks.

Update 2-27-13 - Political-Beat Pete Responds to Criticism 

Several members of the press are making the outrageous claim that Is Journalism Finally Dead? is Not a Real Book.

But the book is about people who are Not Real Journalists. And that is the point!

Related Articles:
Obama's obedient lap dog by Michael Goodwin, New York Post, Feb. 20, 2013

Obama is crushing the media just like the Soviet Union did
— Mark Steyn audio from Hugh Hewitt show link at Daily Caller, February 21, 2013

Our Nixonian Press by Mark Judge, in Real Clear Books, February 23, 2013

Did VW Air a Racist Super Bowl Ad?

PPPS (New Orleans)—Controversy has been swirling around an advertisement which aired yesterday during the Black Out Bowl in New Orleans, with some calling the ad racist.

The offending Volkswagen ad depicted "white folks" speaking with a distinctive Jamaican accent while celebrating a positive outlook on life. A number of media consultants and diversity issues experts found the advertisement to be highly offensive and borderline racist in nature.

We advise our readers to exercise caution while viewing the ad, particularly those who have had sensitivity training or were educated at a liberal arts university, and are white (Minnesotans may be particularly offended). Here is the ad.

We asked our own PPPS Minority and Diversity Issues Editor, Pigment-Challenged Pete, whether, after viewing the VW ad, he thought it was racist. His response, "Yah mahn, it be definitely so".

In the interest of fair and balanced reporting, we did find some people who were not offended by the advertisement, including the entire population of the island nation of Jamaica.

Today, the Jamaican government issued this official video response, directed to those who say the VW ad is racist.

Important Disclaimer: In the interest of full disclosure, we formally state that PPPS has received no compensation or advertising revenue in connection with this news story from Volkswagen America Inc., Volkswagen Jamaica Ltd, or from the Jamaican Government. But, we still have hope.

The President Goes Skeet Shooting

PPPS (Camp David)—We received this official photograph from the White House today, and as dutiful members of the White House Press Corpse, we decided to pass it on (with only a slight embellishment).

Feel free to share this photo.

Official Photo Credit & Instructions:

President Barack Obama shoots clay targets on the range at Camp David, Md., Saturday, Aug. 4, 2012. (Official White House Photo by Pete Souza)

This official White House photograph is being made available only for publication by news organizations and/or for personal use printing by the subject(s) of the photograph. The photograph may not be manipulated in any way and may not be used in commercial or political materials, advertisements, emails, products, promotions that in any way suggests approval or endorsement of the President, the First Family, or the White House.

Official PPPS response: Not much chance this post will be interpreted as an endorsement. Still waiting for that "Official" photograph from the Situation Room on the evening of September 11, 2012 during the Benghazi attack.

Random Thoughts for a Sunday

PPPS (Littleton)—Here are some random thoughts for a Sunday.

File under: Headlines we'd like to see....but probably won't.

Seen on Twitter, source unknown.


#Inauguration Q: Is is impolite to yell "You Lie" when Obama takes the Oath to Defend the Constitution? —Protocol Pete




We went over 50,000 page views today. Thanks to all our readers. God bless. —The Staff

New Voices on the Issues - Gun Control

PPPS (Littleton)—In the interest of fully exploring the issues of the day and exposing our readers to different points of view, PPPS is starting a new series of topic articles we call New Voices on the Issues.

Our first topic is Gun Control and we will add voices to the topic as we find them.

Our first is from this young man named Mr. Colion Noir who posts videos on gun issues. This one is most excellent.

How to Stop Mass Shootings

You can follow Colion on Facebook and Twitter, as well as his YouTube channel.

*************************************************************

Another New Voice on the Gun Control Issue is from a fellow blogger, Citizen Caryn, who writes the Western Bluebird blog. We think Western Bluebird does a fine job of explaining the issue of our 2nd Amendment rights under the Constitution. We encourage you to read it.

How to Understand Your Rights: Amendment II

 

*************************************************************

Update April 3, 2013

Fifteen Year Old Girl Leaves Anti-Gun Politicians Speechless

H/T Guns Save Lives

*************************************************************

Update April 10, 2013

John Lott, Fox News

Once in a while, one of the other major news organizations (besides PPPS) gets something right or publishes an opinion which challenges the status quo. Since that it is so rare, it can legitimately be considered as a new voice. 

In this case, that new voice belongs to John Lott, who writes for Fox News and has offered this amazing fact check of the President's promotion of new gun laws and background checks. We guarantee you will learn something you did not know before.

Fact vs. fiction on background checks and gun control

*************************************************************

Update April 10, 2013

Mark Levin

Mark Levin is a popular radio host, constitutional scholar and author. And although he can hardly be considered a new voice in the gun control debate or on many other issues, we felt that in the instance, Mark is sounding an alarm so compelling, that it must be heard.

An Up or Down Vote on the 2nd Amendment is Unconstitutional

H/T to Daily Rushbo

In Honor of a True Leader of Character - Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

PPPS (Littleton)—Today we celebrate the birthday of an American leader of outstanding character, courage and conviction, and a man of faith - Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

We encourage our readers to watch the video of Dr. King's I Have A Dream speech delivered on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial in 1963.

And we pray that all of our leaders and citizens will take heart from Dr. King's Dream, thank God for the progress we have made as a country, and look upon our fellow citizens as Dr. King would have us do.

Window decal, written and provided to us by Citizen Caryn

And for those among us who still have trouble with that concept, we offer up this replacement for that worn-out old race card:






Update: You can now purchase the above Racism is Garbage window decal, created by Citizen Caryn, here. We have them on our cars. - The Staff

Confirmed: Social Security Could Present the Next Fiscal Crisis

BREAKING NEWS! —PPPS (Washington, DC)

Treasury Secretary Geithner

For that past few days, rumors have been circulating around the Capitol Beltway that another fiscal crisis may be looming, possibly involving the Social Security program.

PPPS, through an exclusive unnamed source, has obtained a copy of a confidential email from Treasury Secretary Timothy Geithner to House Budget Committee Chair, Rep. Paul Ryan which appears to confirm the worst of the rumors. Here is a copy of the email:

Sent:        Wed 1/9/2013 8:42 AM
From:       tim.geithner@treasury.gov
To:            paul.ryan@house.gov
Subject:   CONFIDENTIAL: Social Security Lock Box

Rep. Ryan,

Mr. Chairman, it is with some regret that, in compliance with your request that the Department of the Treasury perform an audit of the contents of the Social Security Lock Box, I must inform your Committee that several Platinum coins placed in the box by an earlier administration have apparently been misplaced.

While I understand that this revelation could create concern regarding the present and future viability of the Social Security Program, rest assured that we will perform a full internal investigation into the matter. 

In the meantime, I am urging the President to exercise his Executive Prerogative and direct the U.S. Mint to immediately coin Platinum replacements, in addition to the $1 trillion Platinum Coin already on order to fund the government for the next two months.

Also, regarding your request that I testify before the Committee next week, it is with extreme disappointment that I must inform you that I am experiencing mild flu symptoms (with possible oath-itis complications). It would simply be unconscionable for me to appear before the Committee at this time and put yourself, and fellow committee members and staff at risk.

I will make every effort to reschedule at a later date, perhaps some time after the end of flu season.

Yours truly,
Timothy Geithner, Secretary

PPPS was unable to obtain any official comment from the Treasury Department, the White House or the Committee Chairman.

However, one Democratic member of the Budget Committee did offer this off-the-record comment:

 "I'm absolutely astounded. Why, if true, this means, basically, the Lock Box is just filled with a bunch of IOU's. I just hope Chairman Ryan doesn't block efforts to determine which Bush Administration official is responsible."

Potentially Related News Item - Craigslist, 12-Dec-2012

As part of the background research on our Lock Box story, one PPPS researcher came across this curious item posted on Craigslist in mid-December. We'll leave our readers to decide the relevance.

Major Cable-News Network available. Potential 40-million subscribers. CURRENT-ly accepting offers starting at $500 million. Must be ideologically compatible & green. Conservative offers not accepted.
Also, Rare Uncirculated Platinum Coins - Mint Condition. Willing to part with for just UNDER $1 Trillion each.
Serious Buyers Only may contact: A.Gore@CurrentlyLookingToCashIn.com

BREAKING NEWS: White House and Congress Issue Joint Resolution

PPPS (Washington)—BREAKING NEWS!

Fresh off of the wildly successful Fiscal Cliff negotiations and legislation to prevent middle class tax hikes, PPPS has learned of another breaking news story out of our nation's captitol.

In a remarkable show of bipartisanship, the White House and Congress today issued a joint New Year's Resolution for 2013:

It is hereby resolved for 2013 to
Create Bigger Can, More Kicks

Look to PPPS for updates on the backroom negotiations behind the resolution.

2012 - The Top Stories & Opinions from the Pundit Pete Press Service

PPPS (Littleton)— First, we extend a hearty HAPPY NEW YEAR to our loyal readers.

As we close out 2012, we take this opportunity to review some the top stories from 2012 as determined by our readers. (Once again, we thank you for helping make the Pundit Pete Press Service one of the most sought-after news sources on the web today.)

The Overall top News Story in 2012, by a wide margin in terms of page views, was this September 29th post:
Obama Up by 14 in Key States As New PPPS Poll Captures Previously Unsampled Demographic 

In addition to the cutting-edge technology and polling science behind this popular post, it also included a dead-on prediction about the presidential election. It is with some pride that we note that the Pundit Pete Press Service was the first major news organization to call the election for President Obama - a full 37 days ahead of election day! 

The Second-most Widely Read News Story, also involving the election, was this inside look at the Obama Campaign by our own embedded reporter, Protester Pete:
Inside the Obama Campaign Slogan Selection Process

Putin Pouts Over PPPS Post

The campaign slogan story also led to this International Incident, which although not as history-altering as some of the misinformation which the Mainstream Media pumps out on a daily basis, this Most Influential International Story, is certainly one of which we at PPPS are quite proud.

PPPS Story Causes International Rift - Putin Pulls Out of G-8

Our Most Popular Opinion Piece and 2nd Most Viewed Post overall was a rare contribution by our leader, Pundit Pete.

The President Lied, Humor Died - Serious Commentary From Pundit Pete

Although not funny, it seems to have hit a chord with many of our readers and generated complaints from others. As a result of the complaints about this post and several others, our Ombudsman, Principled Pete, instituted a Serious Content warning to be placed with stories of this kind.

Our First Post to Be Picked Up by Drudge was this February scoop about the President's promise to halve the deficit by the end of his first term.

"Cut Deficit in Half" Still Goal for New White House Budget

This post was also linked and used by Philip Klein of the Washington Examiner. Remarkably, given the exposure, the White House web site still carried the promise through official start of the President's campaign in May.

Our Biggest Scoop Not Acknowledged or Credited, and still completely ignored to this day, involved the Benghazi attack on September 11th, and our report on the morning of September 12th, which included this statement (kudos to our Middle East correspondent, Palestinian Pete):

"Make no mistake, this was not an angry mob action, as the press is calling it, but a planned attack by Islamic radicals timed to occur on the 11th anniversary of 9/11. The claimed outrage about the Youtube film is just a ruse, perhaps used to inflame the crowd, while the professional terrorists did their deadly work."

That remarkable conclusion preceded any other from a major news organization, and to this day, there are still many in the Mainstream Press who have failed to report the truth about Benghazi. That statement can be found in this September 12 post;

Clinton Speech on Libya Murders Omits the Word "Freedom"

followed by this editorial on September 27th; 

Pundit Pete Opines on Libya Consulate Murders

Our Most Popular JPEG Image Downloads and 3rd Most Viewed Post involved this innocent article about some yard signs posted in front of the PPPS offices. 

New Political Yard Signs - Post Benghazi

Note to those who downloaded images without permission: We Know Who You Are.

Citizen Pete photo (click to enlarge)

Our Two Most Popular Tea Party Protest Stories (tied) were this March protest of green energy by the Bridge to Nowhere Tea Party:

Green Energy Protest Highlights Overspending

and this message to Nancy Pelosi:

Tea Party Group Posts Obamacare Message: Pelosi Not Pleased

As a leading news organization at the forefront of the ever-changing journalism profession, we are proud to have coined a new phrase and started a modern trend in journalism today with this, our Most Influential Trend in Journalism Article:

Journalistic Yoga for the 24/7 News Cycle

Our Best Poem For Journalists category features this Benghazi inspired entry for our new Poet in Residence, Poet Pete:

A Poem for the Press - from Poet Pete

(click to enlarge and to purchase)

And finally, we thank our readers for the Biggest Income Generating Post which featured shirt designs honoring our fellow journalists:

Shirt Designs Honor Journalists

Once again, we thank our readers for your support and look forward to bringing you all the news that's really important in 2013.

A New Year's Resolution Note from Patriot Pete

PPPS (Littlteton)—We thought we would share this early morning note and attached photograph, in the form of an apparent New Year's resolution, which was delivered by a mysterious man on horseback who presented himself following a polite but forceful knock upon our door:

Dear Editor:

It is with profound Sorrow and Concern for the fate of our Great Republic that I must remind you of the painful letter I sent you in 2011, and of how little Progress has been made since that time, and that Liars and Thieves still occupy the White House and roam the halls of Congress in Washington, DC.

9/12 Rally in 2010 (click to enlarge)

Therefore,  upon my Oath to uphold our great Constitution and to Defend our Republic, I hereby Resolve and make this Pledge, that henceforth, for the duration of 2013  and beyond, as necessary, and within the bounds and responsibilities extended to all Citizens from God through the Declaration of Independence and Constitution, and in accordance with all applicable and legitimate laws and rules of a Peaceful Society, that this shall be my Solemn Moto and Vow:

RESIST WE MUCH!

 
It would please me greatly, if on my behalf, you would be so kind as to extend to the Chief Occupier and President, Barack Obama, currently residing at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, and to his Chief Agitator and Race Hustler, The Dishonorable Al Sharpton, address unknown, this letter, and my heartfelt acknowledgement and appreciation for the Inspiration they provided for said Solemn Moto and Vow.

Penned this early morning, on the day of our Lord, the 1st of January, 2013.

Patriot Pete

Peetz, Colorado

Editor's Notes: Upon receipt of this letter from Patriot Pete, we did a little research to place it into context for our readers. 

First of all, Patriot Pete did indeed send us a "Painful Letter" in 2011, which we published on July 23 of that year. Pete's message remains surprisingly applicable to the current "Fiscal Cliff" crisis our country is undergoing now. Therefore we think our readers would benefit from reading Pete's earlier letter again.

A Painful Letter from Patriot Pete — July 23, 2011

We also believe we may have found the context for Patriot Pete's puzzling pronouncement and apparent New Year's resolution: RESIST WE MUCH!

One source appears to be the President's recent interview with David Gregory in which he stated "Absolutely, there will be resistance" to his proposals to limit 2nd Amendment rights. Another source could be the President's December 14th interview in which he labeled Republicans as "resistant".

As for the curious message "Resist We Much", we believe we may have found a remarkably similar statement made by the Reverand Al Sharpton.