Cleaver (MO-5th) voted *for* the bankrupcy bill

[Neecy]

He was the last one I'd expected to vote for this obscenity - and I walked precincts for him last fall. Dammit. His office is getting a furious phone call (not that any of these guys care).

[catmandu57]

1. I saw that

and for the life of me can't figure out why. This bill is going to hit his constituents hard.

[scratchtasia]

2. I didn't see that

I'm going to call, too. Dammit.

[galloglas]

3. What's Cleaver smoking??

I have contacted his office several times about issues. I made a special note, last time, to point out to Cleaver that his votes should at least *appear* to look like Rep. Clay's.

So, what did I get today? An answer to what should have been a *dunk shot* recommendation. I had called and asked that he oppose "Crazy John" Bolton as UN ambassador.

His reply is below. Does this sound like:

1) "He's crazy. I'll oppose Bolton!" or

2) "People are afraid he's crazy. I hope he's not. But... I dunno, I just do what they tell me to do." or

3) "Huh??"



Cleaver's REPLY:


Thank you for contacting my office with your concerns over the nomination of John Bolton as U.S. ambassador to the United Nations. I appreciate hearing your concerns and learning how you feel about this important issue.

As you are aware, President Bush recently nominated Under Secretary of State for Arms Control and International Security, John Bolton, as the U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations. This nomination has been controversial because of Mr. Bolton's outspoken remarks against the United Nations. I share your concerns about selecting an avid opponent of the United Nations to serve as our Nation's spokesperson in that organization.

The United States has a long history of being a leader in international organizations. Founded after World War II, the United Nations plays a major role in global peace keeping today. Although the United Nations faces numerous challenges, it continues to play an important role in the fight against terrorism, nuclear proliferation, famine, and disease. I hope that Mr. Bolton can work with the other ambassadors to further the current good work the United Nations does while helping it grow to meet future international challenges.


Thank you again for contacting me. Please remember, I want to know what issues are important to you. In the future, please do not hesitate to contact me with other concerns.

Sincerely

Emanuel Cleaver, II

Member of Congress

[catmandu57]

4. Sounds like an astroturf go away

to me, probably written by a staffer, but approved by Cleaver, if he wants to stay he'll have to figure out which side he wants to be on, and the prevailing wind is about to die out.