By ,
Published May 08, 2017
And now some fresh pickings from the Political Grapevine...
Spooked?
Retired General David Petraeus was sworn in today as the new CIA director by Vice President Joe Biden during a private ceremony at the White House.
However, the Associated Press is reporting the administration may want to lower the popular general's profile amid concerns that he could be a loose cannon, citing past conflicts over the course of the Afghan war.
The AP writes -- quote -- "Silent is what some in the White House want the well-connected former four-star general to remain. Some top intelligence officials, current and former, still warn that tension with the White House could hobble Petraeus."
We reached out to the White House but did not hear back.
On the Rise
The percentage of uninsured adults has actually increased under President Obama despite his signature health care law that mandates every American carry health insurance by 2014.
A newly released Gallup survey shows 16.8 percent were uninsured in the first half of this year.
Up almost .5 from 2010, when the Affordable Care Act was signed into law.
In 2008, 14.8 percent did not have health insurance.
Not Quite La Bella Vita
And finally, Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi has been caught insulting his own country in a recorded telephone conversation.
The Guardian reports police were investigating claims Berlusconi was being blackmailed about his sex life, when he was heard to say -- quote -- "They can put listening devices where they like...In a few months I'm getting out to mind my own f***ing business, from somewhere else, and so I'm leaving this sh**ty country of which I'm sickened."
The prime minister's prostitution hearing is set to resume next month.
https://www.foxnews.com/transcript/silent-service-for-petraeus