WHAT WOULD REP. GIFFORDS DO?

posted by Michael Chihak

U.S. Rep. Gabrielle Giffords' staff is taking on the federal deficit and spending argument in her absence. Her staff announced in a Friday press release that in conjunction with the Concord Coalition, it will host a town hall next Thursday to discuss deficit reduction methods.

The Concord Coalition's Website describes it as a non-partisan, grassroots organization dedicated to educating the public about the causes and consequences of federal budget deficits, the long-term challenges facing America's unsustainable entitlement programs, and how to build a sound foundation for economic growth."

Among the speakers will be David Walker, described by the Washington Post as a "deficit hawk", and others who specialize in trying to figure out how to fix the federal financial problem.

The goal of the two-hour is laudatory: "to cut through partisan rhetoric and ideological divides to engage in a realistic dialogue about our nation’s financial future," according to a press release from Giffords' office.

Cutting through partisan rhetoric is a terrific goal and perhaps even achievable at this forum. Achievable in political reality? Don't hold your breath.

REDISTRICTING COMMISSION HEADS TO TUCSON

posted by Andrea Kelly

The Arizona Independent Redistricting Commission interviewed four firms today, hoping to find one to serve as a mapping consultant. The mapping consultants help the commission redraw the congressional and legislative district lines.

The commission heads to Tucson next for a meeting Wednesday. Since they didn't select a firm at today's meeting, that's likely to be on the agenda. When the agenda for that meeting is ready, you'll be able to find it at this link.