Good morning, D.C. Check out this lovely shot of the Capitol by Grundlepuck. The statue looks sad, or at least concerned — perhaps it’s contemplating the fate of Rep. Bob Ney, the self-proclaimed “Mayor of Capitol Hill.” According to the Post, Ney’s just been further implicated in the Abramoff scandal.
Duncan Drops Out Of Race: The Democratic field in the race for the Maryland governorship. Montgomery County Executive Doug Duncan has withdrawn from the race, leaving Baltimore Mayor Martin O’Malley as the presumptive Democratic nominee. Duncan cited a recent diagnosis of clinical depression as his motivation for leaving the race. However, given his consistent trailing in the polls and difficulty raising money, we can’t help but wonder whether his campaign’s prospects have something to do with his depression, if not his withdrawal outright.
Ehrlich Vetoes Rate Hike Bill: It was exactly one week ago that we noted Maryland Governor Robert Ehrlich’s displeasure with the state legislature’s solution to the coming electricity rate hikes. At the time, however, Ehrlich said he wouldn’t veto the measure. The Post now reports that Ehrlich has had a change of heart. He’s vetoed the bill, apparently because it calls for firing the five members of the Public Service Commission (four of whom he appointed). The legislature is expected to overturn the veto.
D.C. Fire Chief Here To Stay: Yesterday Mayor Williams reiterated his support for Fire Chief Adrian Thompson, reports NBC4. Thompson has come under fire after last week’s report on the David Rosenbaum murder pointed out serious shortcomings in D.C. emergency services. Various parties have called for Thompson’s ouster as a result, but it looks like they won’t be getting their wish. For her part, Linda Cropp has already responded to Williams’ statement by renewing her call for Thompson to be fired.
Briefly Noted: Area bike paths to be improved, connected… Even more personal information stolen from government… Merrill memorialized… GWU decides to keep student mental health data confidential…
This Day In DCist: Stare DCisis took a look at the Williams v. Walker-Thomas case, Ask DCist answered a query about area vintage clothing stores, and we welcomed the Columbia Heights Giant grocery store to the neighborhood.
Image posted to DCist Photos by Flickr user Grundlepuck. Thanks to Catherine Andrews for contributing to this post.
