More about the hold

LJWorld.com weblogs Congressional Briefing

Posted by Joel Mathis June 9, 2005 at 10:11 a.m.

A few more details today about Sen. Sam Brownback and his decision to block, at least temporarily, the confirmation of a presidential nominee.[The Associated Press reports:][1] "The Kansas Republican, a strong abortion opponent with presidential aspirations, says he has concerns about Julie Finley's nomination as ambassador to the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe."'I have some concerns about Ms. Finley and I would like to have assurances about these issues before I make any final decisions on the nomination moving forward,' Brownback said in a statement. 'She is a wonderful lady that I have worked with before, but not yet on issues relevant to the OSCE.'"Finley, a longtime Bush supporter and Republican fundraiser, is a founding member of the WISH list, a political action committee that raises money for female Republican candidates who support abortion rights. "A single senator can block a nomination from moving forward by placing a hold on it. "Some anti-abortion groups mobilized last month to stop Finley's nomination based on her abortion views. The Republican National Coalition for Life has urged its members to contact the White House to oppose the nomination. "James Geoffrey, a commission spokesman, said the issue of abortion is not typically addressed by the organization."Brownback meets with Finley today in an attempt to resolve the matter.Other links:Pat Roberts links[(Kansas City Star) Grant will further roles of area fathers:][2] The U.S. Department of Education has awarded a $421,600 grant to a Shawnee Mission center to help fathers be more involved in their children's education. ... The center plans to involve fathers through programs in 100 schools or Head Start sites. "Unfortunately, for some Kansas children, fathers are not prominent in their lives and education," Roberts said. "I am pleased to announce this important funding to such a worthwhile program."How to contactAs always, you can find information to contact members of the Kansas congressional delegation [here.][3] [1]: http://abcnews.go.com/Politics/wireStory?id=832073 [2]: http://www.kansascity.com/mld/kansascity/news/local/11848788.htm [3]: http://ljworld.com/extra/where_to_write.html#fed