Capitol Calling

KBIA Commentary: Message in a Bottle

This week's commentary takes a look at Saturday's congressional vote on health care legislation

The piece examines whether the passage of the bill may actual create more political challenges for the Democratic Party.

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KBIA Commentary: Million Dollar Dream

My commentary for KBIA this week looks at what the state will have to do in order to prevent more budget cuts down the road. Given the structural and legislative impediments, it may not bad an easy task.

Here it is:

KBIA Commentary: Another One Bites the Dust

My KBIA Commentary touches on The Kansas City Star's report on former House Speaker Rod Jetton's role in Missouri politics since he departed from office earlier this year.

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KBIA Commentary: Stone in Your Eyes

With the flood of campaign finance information coming forward in the next couple of days, what better time for a KBIA Commentary about... campaign finances?

I would argue no time is better.

My commentary specifically looks at the federal and state campaign finance systems. It also takes a look how outside groups will affect next year's election cycle - including the U.S. Senate race in Missouri.

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KBIA Commentary: Danger! High Voltage

My KBIA commentary this week is about the fallout for Gov. Jay Nixon's administration from the E. Coli controversy.

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KBIA Commentary: Targeting Skelton

My KBIA commentary is on U.S. Rep. Ike Skelton's impending battle for re-election.

While the Lexington Democratic lawmaker has experience on his side, he'll be facing tougher competition than what he's used to facing.

Take a listen:

KBIA Commentary: Carter Power

My KBIA commentary today looks at the comparison between President Barack Obama and former President Jimmy Carter.

The two are different in many ways, but Obama may be entering into one of Carter's biggest shortcomings - failing to pass major agenda items through a Democratic Congress.

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KBIA Commentary: Love Lockdown

My KBIA Commentary is dedicated to David Catanese, KY3's political reporter.

Enjoy:

KBIA Commentary: Doctor, Doctor

My KBIA Commentary this week is on debate over the so-called "public option." That's the common term used for a proposal that would establish a government-run program to provide potentially millions of people with health insurance.

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KBIA Commentary: Common People

I don't typically dwell on Columbia's city government. But Mayor Darwin Hindman's impending retirement got me thinking.

While Hindman was a prominent ambassador for Columbia, his long tenure showcased the structural weaknesses of the office. The mayor of Columbia is essentially an at-large city councilperson with little executive power. And with a big time commitment and no compensation, there doesn't seem to be a big incentive to run for city offices.

Listen to my commentary for more: