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MATTHEW DALY
Cantwell blocks nominations over oil trading rules
- Sen. Maria Cantwell has blocked three nominations to the Commodity Futures Trading Commission - including the president's choice to lead the panel - saying the federal agency has failed to regulate oil markets even as the price of gasoline hits record highs.
Democrat Schumer optimistic in Oregon Senate race
- New York Sen. Charles Schumer said Wednesday he was confident that Oregon Democrat Jeff Merkley can win against incumbent Sen. Gordon Smith this fall.
Off-road group says Smokey Bear is unfair
- A group that advocates motorized recreation is asking the Forest Service to withdraw a public service ad featuring Smokey Bear. The group says the ad sends the wrong message that riders operating off-road vehicles in a legal manner can start forest fires.
Murray says Bush, GOP block energy solutions
- Sen. Patty Murray says Democrats have a plan to combat record-high gas prices, but President Bush and Republicans in Congress are standing in the way.
Oregon Sen. Smith calls Merkley a lawbreaker
- Oregon Sen. Gordon Smith said Friday that Democrat Jeff Merkley is breaking the law by continuing to appear in campaign ads paid for by the state Democratic Party.
Ore. race: Smith calls Merkley a lawbreaker
- Oregon Republican Senator Gordon Smith says Democrat Jeff Merkley is breaking the law by continuing to appear in campaign ads paid for the state Democratic Party.