TUESDAY’S MINI-REPORT…. Today’s edition of quick hits:
* Ted Kennedy’s condition has apparently improved this afternoon. Bob Byrd, meanwhile, did not fall ill, as previous reports had indicated.
* Unfortunately, Wall Street did not partake in celebrating the Obama inauguration, and the markets took a serious tumble this afternoon.
* The Senate unanimously approved the cabinet nominations of Secretaries Chu, Duncan, Napolitano, Salazar, Shinseki, and Vilsack today. OMB Director Peter Orszag was also approved.
* On a related note, Sen. John Cornyn (R-Texas) decided to celebrate the first day of the new political era by blocking a vote on Hillary Clinton’s nomination to be Secretary of State. She’s expected to be approved tomorrow.
* On a related note, right-wing Rep. Steve King (R-Iowa) helped usher in a new political era by boycotting a Capitol Hill reception for Iowa’s congressional delegation. Both of Iowa’s senators and four of its five representatives will attend, but King is refusing, citing his “philosophical” problems with the new president.
* It’s incredible, but Bush really has left.
* There’s supposed to be a welcome-home celebration for Bush this afternoon in Midland, Texas. Good seats are still available.
* The president’s new limo includes some pretty amazing features.
* No word yet on whether Bush issued any pardons this morning.
* CNN is still screwing up reports on the cost of the Obama inauguration.
* On the Hill today, Obama reportedly signed three documents: a proclamation declaring today a day of national renewal and reconciliation (a recent presidential tradition), cabinet nominations, and sub-cabinet nominations. As he signed his name, Obama said, “I’m a lefty. Get used to it.” (For the record, Reagan, H.W. Bush, and Clinton were also left-handed.)
Anything to add? Consider this an open thread.
