rollcall--2020-10-05--COVID-19 threatens Senate chaos, but no pause in Barrett confirmation process

As President Donald Trump emerged from Walter Reed National Military Medical Center on Monday evening , Senate Republicans were continuing to operate on a timeline that would allow them to confirm Amy Coney Barrett to the Supreme Court — even as they faced cases of COVID-19 within their ranks that may have started at the White House .
Sen. Ron Johnson , a Wisconsin Republican who has tested positive for coronavirus , said in a Monday radio interview that he was prepared to return to the Capitol to vote to confirm Barrett even if he tests positive shortly before the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for Disease Control and Prevention isolation guidelines , as well as the District of Columbia ’ s virus protocols , although there is little to no enforcement of such .
“ I ’ ve already told leadership I ’ ll go in a moon suit , ” Johnson told KHOW radio .
“ People can be fairly confident that Mitch McConnell is dedicated to holding a vote , ” he said of the Senate majority leader .
Johnson even floated the idea of holding the vote electronically , although the Homeland Security and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ too far-fetched for the Senate since it would require rules changes beforehand .
Judiciary Chairman Lindsey Graham of South Carolina has already announced that the Senate confirmation hearings for Barrett will kick off as scheduled on Oct. 12 , even though McConnell was able to announce an agreement Monday on the Senate floor effectively scrapping all floor business until at least Oct. 19 .
Lawmakers would likely only return for floor votes if there is a deal on additional COVID-19 relief .

Corrected 10 p.m. | As President Donald Trump emerged from Walter Reed National Military Medical Center on Monday evening, Senate Republicans were continuing to operate on a timeline that would allow them to confirm Amy Coney Barrett to the Supreme Court — even as they faced cases of COVID-19 within their ranks that may have started at the White House.
Sen. Ron Johnson, a Wisconsin Republican who has tested positive for coronavirus, said in a Monday radio interview that he was prepared to return to the Capitol to vote to confirm Barrett even if he tests positive shortly before the vote. Doing so would violate Centers for Disease Control and Prevention isolation guidelines, as well as the District of Columbia’s virus protocols, although there is little to no enforcement of such.
“I’ve already told leadership I’ll go in a moon suit,” Johnson told KHOW radio. “People can be fairly confident that Mitch McConnell is dedicated to holding a vote,” he said of the Senate majority leader.
Johnson even floated the idea of holding the vote electronically, although the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs chairman suggested that might be too far-fetched for the Senate since it would require rules changes beforehand.
Judiciary Chairman Lindsey Graham of South Carolina has already announced that the Senate confirmation hearings for Barrett will kick off as scheduled on Oct. 12, even though McConnell was able to announce an agreement Monday on the Senate floor effectively scrapping all floor business until at least Oct. 19. Lawmakers would likely only return for floor votes if there is a deal on additional COVID-19 relief.


rollcall--2020-10-05--Senate out until Oct. 19, but Supreme Court confirmation process not delayed

Instead of beginning consideration on the first of five U.S. District Court nominees Monday as planned , Majority Leader Mitch McConnell won unanimous consent agreement to hold only pro forma floor sessions until Oct. 19 .
The Kentucky Republican announced the plan this weekend after three of the chamber 's Republican lawmakers said they had tested positive for COVID-19 and several others said they would be self-quarantining after coming in contact with infected individuals .
Sens .
Mike Lee of Utah , Thom Tillis of North Carolina , and Ron Johnson of Wisconsin announced in the past few days they @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and would self-isolate for at least 10 days .
Oklahoma Sen. James Lankford and Nebraska 's Ben Sasse announced they would self-quarantine because of their contacts .
Senate rules dictate that a majority of members need to be present to conduct business .
Typically senators waive the quorum requirement by unanimous consent , but without consent at least 51 senators would need to be physically present in the Capitol .
McConnell and Judiciary Chairman Lindsey Graham said the recess would not impact the Oct. 12 start of hearings on the Supreme Court nomination @ @ @ @ @ @ @ panel officially announced the hearings would begin Oct. 12 and continue through Oct. 15 .

Instead of beginning consideration on the first of five U.S. District Court nominees Monday as planned, Majority Leader Mitch McConnell won unanimous consent agreement to hold only pro forma floor sessions until Oct. 19.
The Kentucky Republican announced the plan this weekend after three of the chamber's Republican lawmakers said they had tested positive for COVID-19 and several others said they would be self-quarantining after coming in contact with infected individuals.
Sens. Mike Lee of Utah, Thom Tillis of North Carolina, and Ron Johnson of Wisconsin announced in the past few days they had tested positive for the novel coronavirus and would self-isolate for at least 10 days. Oklahoma Sen. James Lankford and Nebraska's Ben Sasse announced they would self-quarantine because of their contacts.
Senate rules dictate that a majority of members need to be present to conduct business. Typically senators waive the quorum requirement by unanimous consent, but without consent at least 51 senators would need to be physically present in the Capitol.
McConnell and Judiciary Chairman Lindsey Graham said the recess would not impact the Oct. 12 start of hearings on the Supreme Court nomination of Amy Coney Barrett. The Judiciary panel officially announced the hearings would begin Oct. 12 and continue through Oct. 15.


rollcall--2020-10-05--Photo of the day: Insert ballot here

Photo of the day: Insert ballot here

The District of Columbia Board of Elections began accepting mail-in ballots on Monday at their drop boxes scattered around Washington @ @ @ @ @ the Northeast Neighborhood Library .
Early in-person voting in D.C. begins Oct. 27 .

(Caroline Brehman/CQ Roll Call)
The District of Columbia Board of Elections began accepting mail-in ballots on Monday at their drop boxes scattered around Washington, including this location at the Northeast Neighborhood Library. Early in-person voting in D.C. begins Oct. 27.


rollcall--2020-10-05--Can Trump push a reset button after COVID-19?

ANALYSIS — After four years of almost uninterrupted chaos and a presidential debate that , thanks largely to Donald Trump , could have been mistaken for a World Wrestling Entertainment pre-fight press conference , the editorial board of The Wall Street Journal suggested Friday that Trump ’ s positive COVID-19 test gives him an opportunity to change the 2020 presidential contest .
“ Americans will be empathetic , and Mr. Trump can respond in kind , ” suggested the editorial , adding , “ Rather than lash out at his critics , Mr. Trump can show optimism and fortitude and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ On Fox News on Saturday , Wall Street Journal deputy editorial page editor Dan Henninger went even further , suggesting Trump “ deliver a series of fireside chats to the American people ” focusing on his plans for a second term , his accomplishments , and his differences with Joe Biden .
“ And just do that in a kind of relaxed way to the American people , ” added Henninger , who apparently has never seen the president in action .
The Journal has some excellent political reporters and editors , and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ developments in the business world .
But its editorial board consistently demonstrates that it knows nothing about campaigns , elections or public opinion .

ANALYSIS — After four years of almost uninterrupted chaos and a presidential debate that, thanks largely to Donald Trump, could have been mistaken for a World Wrestling Entertainment pre-fight press conference, the editorial board of The Wall Street Journal suggested Friday that Trump’s positive COVID-19 test gives him an opportunity to change the 2020 presidential contest.
“Americans will be empathetic, and Mr. Trump can respond in kind,” suggested the editorial, adding, “Rather than lash out at his critics, Mr. Trump can show optimism and fortitude and maybe even good humor in coping.”
On Fox News on Saturday, Wall Street Journal deputy editorial page editor Dan Henninger went even further, suggesting Trump “deliver a series of fireside chats to the American people” focusing on his plans for a second term, his accomplishments, and his differences with Joe Biden.
“And just do that in a kind of relaxed way to the American people,” added Henninger, who apparently has never seen the president in action.
The Journal has some excellent political reporters and editors, and it is a good place to follow developments in the business world. But its editorial board consistently demonstrates that it knows nothing about campaigns, elections or public opinion.


rollcall--2020-10-05--Kenosha police officer who tased Jacob Blake worked for the Capitol Police

One of the Kenosha Police Department officers present when Jacob Blake was shot seven times in the back used to work for the Capitol Police .
The incident , in which Blake , who is Black , was shot by a white officer , led to a wave of racial justice protests in the Wisconsin city and quickly became a focal point of debates about police violence .
On Aug. 23 , officers in Kenosha , Wisconsin were dispatched to a residence after a female caller said her boyfriend was there and wasn ’ t supposed to be .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for Blake ’ s arrest on charges of third-degree sexual assault , criminal trespass and disorderly conduct , according to the New York Times .
The officers tried to arrest Blake , and after that initial attempt , Officer Rusten Sheskey used a taser on Blake .
When that failed , Officer Vincent Arenas also deployed his taser on Blake , according to the Wisconsin Department of Justice .
Blake walked around his car and opened the driver ’ s side door and leaned forward .
At that point , Sheskey , who @ @ @ @ @ @ @ shot Blake seven times in the back .
Sheskey was the only officer who used his gun .
Blake was left partially paralyzed by the shooting .

One of the Kenosha Police Department officers present when Jacob Blake was shot seven times in the back used to work for the Capitol Police. The incident, in which Blake, who is Black, was shot by a white officer, led to a wave of racial justice protests in the Wisconsin city and quickly became a focal point of debates about police violence.
On Aug. 23, officers in Kenosha, Wisconsin were dispatched to a residence after a female caller said her boyfriend was there and wasn’t supposed to be. The month prior, a warrant was issued for Blake’s arrest on charges of third-degree sexual assault, criminal trespass and disorderly conduct, according to the New York Times.
The officers tried to arrest Blake, and after that initial attempt, Officer Rusten Sheskey used a taser on Blake. When that failed, Officer Vincent Arenas also deployed his taser on Blake, according to the Wisconsin Department of Justice.
Blake walked around his car and opened the driver’s side door and leaned forward. At that point, Sheskey, who was grabbing Blake’s shirt, shot Blake seven times in the back. Sheskey was the only officer who used his gun.
Blake was left partially paralyzed by the shooting.


rollcall--2020-10-05--Supreme Court functions in midst of COVID-19 chaos on first day of new term

Chief Justice John G. Roberts Jr. started the Supreme Court ’ s new term Monday with a brief tribute to Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg , whose death last month thrust the court into Washington ’ s central political drama less than a month before the presidential election .
Ahead of two hours of oral arguments , held remotely by telephone because of the COVID-19 pandemic , Roberts went through Ginsburg ’ s career in law that culminated with 27 years on the high court .
He said her “ contributions as advocate , jurist and citizen are immeasurable.
” The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , down to eight justices and not conducting business in person .
But the justices moved right into oral arguments after that — making it the only branch of government that was not grappling with how to do its work because of the coronavirus pandemic .
The Senate postponed hearings and looked to stay away from the Capitol this week because three Republican members are in isolation with the virus and others are quarantining because of exposure .
Their absence prompted questions about whether Senate Republicans can move forward with plans to swiftly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Ginsburg ’ s seat , Amy Coney Barrett , a federal appeals court judge .
President Donald Trump is in the hospital with coronavirus , under treatment with a combination of medications , and spent the morning tweeting out in all caps a string of reasons why he thinks voters should reelect him .
Some related to the Supreme Court and a case the justices will hear next month on the 2010 health care law .

Chief Justice John G. Roberts Jr. started the Supreme Court’s new term Monday with a brief tribute to Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, whose death last month thrust the court into Washington’s central political drama less than a month before the presidential election.
Ahead of two hours of oral arguments, held remotely by telephone because of the COVID-19 pandemic, Roberts went through Ginsburg’s career in law that culminated with 27 years on the high court. He said her “contributions as advocate, jurist and citizen are immeasurable.”
The Supreme Court is, at the moment, down to eight justices and not conducting business in person. But the justices moved right into oral arguments after that — making it the only branch of government that was not grappling with how to do its work because of the coronavirus pandemic.
The Senate postponed hearings and looked to stay away from the Capitol this week because three Republican members are in isolation with the virus and others are quarantining because of exposure. Their absence prompted questions about whether Senate Republicans can move forward with plans to swiftly confirm Trump’s nominee to fill Ginsburg’s seat, Amy Coney Barrett, a federal appeals court judge.
President Donald Trump returned to the White House on Monday evening after spending three days in the hospital with coronavirus, and he spent Monday morning tweeting out in all caps a string of reasons why he thinks voters should reelect him. Some related to the Supreme Court and a case the justices will hear next month on the 2010 health care law.


rollcall--2020-10-05--CQ Roll Call Policy Briefs

CQ Roll Call Policy Briefs

This is CQ Roll Call 's Policy Briefs , the latest in policy news from the CQ Roll Call newsroom @ @ @ @ @ digestible episodes .
You can subscribe to the podcast feed here , and find our @ @ @ @

This is CQ Roll Call's Policy Briefs, the latest in policy news from the CQ Roll Call newsroom delivered through quick, easily digestible episodes. You can subscribe to the podcast feed here, and find our other podcasts here.


rollcall--2020-10-05--Toomey to serve out term, return to private sector

Pennsylvania Sen. Patrick J. Toomey confirmed Monday that he does not plan to run for reelection or for governor in 2022 , but he will serve out the rest of his Senate term and then return to the private sector .
“ The reasons I have reached this decision are not political .
They ’ re personal , ” the second-term Republican said at a news conference .
Toomey noted that his service in Washington has meant time away from his family and that he has long supported term limits .
The announcement came shortly after President Donald Trump disclosed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Toomey said he had made his decision earlier and that Trump ’ s diagnosis played “ no role whatsoever.
” Toomey decided to announce his decision Monday because he had already been fielding daily calls from supporters offering to help with a run for Senate or governor , he said .
He also said his early announcement will give other Republicans with statewide ambitions time to organize their campaigns .
The Philadelphia Inquirer first reported Toomey ’ s decision on Sunday .
Keystone State Republicans have struggled to win statewide in recent years @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to statewide office in Pennsylvania who is not a judge .

Pennsylvania Sen. Patrick J. Toomey confirmed Monday that he does not plan to run for reelection or for governor in 2022, but he will serve out the rest of his Senate term and then return to the private sector.
“The reasons I have reached this decision are not political. They’re personal,” the second-term Republican said at a news conference. Toomey noted that his service in Washington has meant time away from his family and that he has long supported term limits.
The announcement came shortly after President Donald Trump disclosed a positive test for COVID-19, but Toomey said he had made his decision earlier and that Trump’s diagnosis played “no role whatsoever.”
Toomey decided to announce his decision Monday because he had already been fielding daily calls from supporters offering to help with a run for Senate or governor, he said. He also said his early announcement will give other Republicans with statewide ambitions time to organize their campaigns.
The Philadelphia Inquirer first reported Toomey’s decision on Sunday. Keystone State Republicans have struggled to win statewide in recent years, leaving Toomey the only Republican elected to statewide office in Pennsylvania who is not a judge.


rollcall--2020-10-06--House Democrats back antitrust overhaul of Google, Facebook, Amazon, Apple

Democrats on the House Judiciary Committee said Tuesday that Congress should consider forcing Amazon , Google , Apple and Facebook , some of the country ’ s largest and most successful technology companies , to separate key sections of their business empires to reduce alleged market dominance .
A staff report and recommendations released by the committee ’ s majority — led by Chairman Jerrold Nadler , D-N.Y. , and Rep. David Cicilline , D-R.I. , who chairs the antitrust subcommittee — said all four companies maintain monopolies in their unique markets : Amazon in its third-party seller market , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Apple in software distribution on mobile devices and Facebook in social networking .
“ By controlling access to markets , these giants can pick winners and losers throughout our economy , ” Nadler wrote in a foreword to the report .
“ They not only wield tremendous power , but they also abuse it by charging exorbitant fees , imposing oppressive contract terms , and extracting valuable data from the people and businesses that rely on them .
“ Companies that once were scrappy , underdog startups that challenged the status quo have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ saw in the era of oil barons and railroad tycoons , ” Nadler wrote .
In addition to the prospect of forcing the companies to separate their businesses to prohibit them from exerting their market dominance in competition with “ firms dependent on [ their ] infrastructure , ” the report said Congress should limit the markets in which the companies could do business .

Democrats on the House Judiciary Committee said Tuesday that Congress should consider forcing Amazon, Google, Apple and Facebook, some of the country’s largest and most successful technology companies, to separate key sections of their business empires to reduce alleged market dominance.
A staff report and recommendations released by the committee’s majority — led by Chairman Jerrold Nadler, D-N.Y., and Rep. David Cicilline, D-R.I., who chairs the antitrust subcommittee — said all four companies maintain monopolies in their unique markets: Amazon in its third-party seller market, Google in online search and advertising, Apple in software distribution on mobile devices and Facebook in social networking.
“By controlling access to markets, these giants can pick winners and losers throughout our economy,” Nadler wrote in a foreword to the report. “They not only wield tremendous power, but they also abuse it by charging exorbitant fees, imposing oppressive contract terms, and extracting valuable data from the people and businesses that rely on them.
“Companies that once were scrappy, underdog startups that challenged the status quo have become the kinds of monopolies we last saw in the era of oil barons and railroad tycoons,” Nadler wrote.
In addition to the prospect of forcing the companies to separate their businesses to prohibit them from exerting their market dominance in competition with “firms dependent on [their] infrastructure,” the report said Congress should limit the markets in which the companies could do business.


rollcall--2020-10-06--House Democrats raise concerns over Joint Chiefs’ quarantine after COVID-19 exposure

Top Democrats on the House Armed Services Committee and a former U.S. spy chief expressed concerns about U.S. national security Tuesday after news broke that most of the Joint Chiefs of Staff are quarantining after coming in contact with at least one person who later tested positive for COVID-19 .
Seven of the eight members of the Joint Chiefs of Staff — the nation ’ s top military officers — are working from home , according to news reports , though a Pentagon official said Tuesday that none of the officers has tested positive for COVID-19 or shown symptoms .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ an Oct. 2 meeting at the Pentagon alongside Adm. Charles Ray , vice commandant of the Coast Guard , who had been infected with the virus , Pentagon spokesman Jonathan Hoffman said in a statement on Tuesday .
Army Gen. Mark Milley , the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff , is among the top officers in quarantine .
In addition to attending the Oct. 2 meeting , Milley and other senior Defense Department officials have gotten tested regularly since a Sept. 27 event at the White House for Gold Star families @ @ @ @ @ @ @ event too , as did President Donald Trump and first lady Melania Trump , both of whom caught the virus .
House Armed Services Chairman Adam Smith criticized Trump for a “ reckless and harmful ” approach to both messaging about the disease and failing to adequately protect others when Trump got sick .
And the Washington Democrat expressed concerns about the chiefs ’ condition .

Top Democrats on the House Armed Services Committee and a former U.S. spy chief expressed concerns about U.S. national security Tuesday after news broke that most of the Joint Chiefs of Staff are quarantining after coming in contact with at least one person who later tested positive for COVID-19.
Seven of the eight members of the Joint Chiefs of Staff — the nation’s top military officers — are working from home, according to news reports, though a Pentagon official said Tuesday that none of the officers has tested positive for COVID-19 or shown symptoms.
The Joint Chiefs members had all attended an Oct. 2 meeting at the Pentagon alongside Adm. Charles Ray, vice commandant of the Coast Guard, who had been infected with the virus, Pentagon spokesman Jonathan Hoffman said in a statement on Tuesday.
Army Gen. Mark Milley, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, is among the top officers in quarantine. In addition to attending the Oct. 2 meeting, Milley and other senior Defense Department officials have gotten tested regularly since a Sept. 27 event at the White House for Gold Star families of fallen troops. Ray attended that event too, as did President Donald Trump and first lady Melania Trump, both of whom caught the virus.
House Armed Services Chairman Adam Smith criticized Trump for a “reckless and harmful” approach to both messaging about the disease and failing to adequately protect others when Trump got sick. And the Washington Democrat expressed concerns about the chiefs’ condition.


rollcall--2020-10-06--Coronavirus Special Report: Trump ends talks with Democrats on a new stimulus bill

In tonight ’ s episode , CQ Roll Call delves into President Donald Trump ’ s latest move to declare @ @ @ @ @ about a stimulus package until after the election .
Meanwhile , the Food and Drug @ @ @ @ @ COVID-19 vaccine developers , thwarting Trump ’ s efforts to authorize one by Election Day @ @ @ @ @ coronavirus relief package talks until after elections • Four weeks to go : Lindsey Graham @ @ @ @ @ list • Trump ’ s antibody drug out of reach for all but ‘ rare @ @

In tonight’s episode, CQ Roll Call delves into President Donald Trump’s latest move to declare an end to all talks about a stimulus package until after the election. Meanwhile, the Food and Drug Administration released stricter guidelines for COVID-19 vaccine developers, thwarting Trump’s efforts to authorize one by Election Day.
Show Notes:


rollcall--2020-10-06--Trump administration unveils new H-1B visa restrictions

The Trump administration on Tuesday announced new rules on the H-1B visa program that will make it more difficult for highly skilled foreign workers who have at least a college degree to work for U.S. companies .
During a press call Tuesday , top officials at the Homeland Security and Labor departments said the new rules would modify the current wage requirements of the program and restrict what types of occupations would be eligible for such visas , as well as put in place stricter enforcement .
In an accompanying press release , officials billed these changes as an important @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the two departments to “ protect American workers.
” “ I can not overstate how big a deal this is , ” said Ken Cuccinelli , the senior official performing the duties of acting deputy secretary at Homeland Security .
“ In the history of DHS , we have never done as much in the H-1B space as we are announcing today.
” The Labor Department rule , unveiled in the Federal Register , would go into effect when it is published Thursday .
In general terms , it would require U.S. employers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they have little incentive to lay off or displace American workers and replace them with cheaper foreign labor .
This change was “ long overdue , ” Deputy Labor Secretary Patrick Pizzella told reporters , adding that it had “ become imperative in light of the current conditions in the U.S. labor market .
”

The Trump administration on Tuesday announced new rules on the H-1B visa program that will make it more difficult for highly skilled foreign workers who have at least a college degree to work for U.S. companies.
During a press call Tuesday, top officials at the Homeland Security and Labor departments said the new rules would modify the current wage requirements of the program and restrict what types of occupations would be eligible for such visas, as well as put in place stricter enforcement. In an accompanying press release, officials billed these changes as an important first step in a larger coordination between the two departments to “protect American workers.”
“I cannot overstate how big a deal this is,” said Ken Cuccinelli, the senior official performing the duties of acting deputy secretary at Homeland Security. “In the history of DHS, we have never done as much in the H-1B space as we are announcing today.”
The Labor Department rule, unveiled in the Federal Register, would go into effect when it is published Thursday. In general terms, it would require U.S. employers to pay H-1B recruits higher wages so they have little incentive to lay off or displace American workers and replace them with cheaper foreign labor.
This change was “long overdue,” Deputy Labor Secretary Patrick Pizzella told reporters, adding that it had “become imperative in light of the current conditions in the U.S. labor market.”


rollcall--2020-10-06--COVID-19 cases keep rising in Capitol complex

As COVID-19 cases spread through the White House and ruffle the Senate , cases among front-line workers on Capitol Hill continue to rise in the center of American government , which to this day lacks a comprehensive testing regimen for all workers .
There are now 123 Legislative Branch employees or contractors who have tested positive — or are presumed positive — for COVID-19 , according to Ashley Phelps , a Republican spokeswoman for the House Administration Committee .
This total has increased by 20 since Aug. 28 .
The count includes 46 Capitol Police employees , 42 Architect of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on the Cannon Building renovation project .
These numbers reflect total cases since the start of the coronavirus pandemic .
As of Oct. 5 , there are 22 Capitol Police employees who are on paid administrative leave .
Last week , COVID-19 engulfed the White House , including President Donald Trump and first lady Melania Trump .
Three Republican senators who were at the Sept. 26 Rose Garden ceremony to introduce Supreme Court nominee Amy Coney Barrett have since tested positive for the virus : Mike Lee of Utah , Ron Johnson of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .

As COVID-19 cases spread through the White House and ruffle the Senate, cases among front-line workers on Capitol Hill continue to rise in the center of American government, which to this day lacks a comprehensive testing regimen for all workers.
There are now 123 Legislative Branch employees or contractors who have tested positive — or are presumed positive — for COVID-19, according to Ashley Phelps, a Republican spokeswoman for the House Administration Committee. This total has increased by 20 since Aug. 28.
The count includes 46 Capitol Police employees, 42 Architect of the Capitol employees and 35 contractors working on the Cannon Building renovation project. These numbers reflect total cases since the start of the coronavirus pandemic.
As of Oct. 5, there are 22 Capitol Police employees who are on paid administrative leave.
Last week, COVID-19 engulfed the White House, including President Donald Trump and first lady Melania Trump. Three Republican senators who were at the Sept. 26 Rose Garden ceremony to introduce Supreme Court nominee Amy Coney Barrett have since tested positive for the virus: Mike Lee of Utah, Ron Johnson of Wisconsin and Thom Tillis of North Carolina.


rollcall--2020-10-06--Photo of the day: A Supreme Court nominee — from 2005

On this day in 2005 , Supreme Court nominee Harriet Miers met with Senate Judiciary ranking member Patrick J. Leahy @ @ @ @ @ previously a White House counsel , was tapped by President George W. Bush to replace @ @ @ @ @ the bench .
The nomination , however , drew fire from across the political spectrum @ @ @ @ @ from the confirmation process three weeks later .
Miers had never previously served as a @ @ @ @ @ court nominees do , and there were questions over how her tenure at the White @ @ @ @ @ role in the judicial branch .
CQ Roll Call cartoonist Mike Mikula summed up the @ @ @ @ @ Samuel A. Alito was eventually nominated to fill the vacancy and was confirmed on Jan. @ @ @ @

(Tom Williams/CQ Roll Call file photo)
On this day in 2005, Supreme Court nominee Harriet Miers met with Senate Judiciary ranking member Patrick J. Leahy of Vermont. Miers, previously a White House counsel, was tapped by President George W. Bush to replace Justice Sandra Day O'Connor on the bench.
The nomination, however, drew fire from across the political spectrum, leading to her withdrawal from the confirmation process three weeks later. Miers had never previously served as a judge, as most high court nominees do, and there were questions over how her tenure at the White House would play into a role in the judicial branch. CQ Roll Call cartoonist Mike Mikula summed up the nomination here.
Current Justice Samuel A. Alito was eventually nominated to fill the vacancy and was confirmed on Jan. 31, 2006.


rollcall--2020-10-06--FDA releases high coronavirus vaccine standards despite White House resistance

The Food and Drug Administration issued long-awaited guidance Tuesday on the data it expects from drug companies seeking emergency authorization @ @ @ @ @ White House pressure for lower standards intended to push out vaccines quickly .
The 18-page @ @ @ @ @ after reports suggested the White House had blocked the agency from issuing the guidelines , @ @ @ @ @ public confidence .
One of the issues was whether the FDA would stick with its @ @ @ @ @ follow patients for two months after their final dose of a vaccine .
The nonbinding @ @ @ @ @ document quietly released earlier Tuesday maintained that standard .
That would likely interfere with the @ @ @ @ @ to issue an emergency authorization before Election Day on Nov. 3 .
That did not @ @ @ @ @ Trump , who tweeted late Tuesday night : “ New FDA Rules make it more @ @ @ @ @ up vaccines for approval before Election Day .
Just another political hit job !
”

The Food and Drug Administration issued long-awaited guidance Tuesday on the data it expects from drug companies seeking emergency authorization of COVID-19 vaccines, overcoming White House pressure for lower standards intended to push out vaccines quickly.
The 18-page guidance was released a day after reports suggested the White House had blocked the agency from issuing the guidelines, which are meant to engender public confidence.
One of the issues was whether the FDA would stick with its plan to require drugmakers to follow patients for two months after their final dose of a vaccine. The nonbinding FDA guidance and another agency document quietly released earlier Tuesday maintained that standard.
That would likely interfere with the White House’s push to issue an emergency authorization before Election Day on Nov. 3.
That did not sit well with President Donald Trump, who tweeted late Tuesday night: “New FDA Rules make it more difficult for them to speed up vaccines for approval before Election Day. Just another political hit job!”


rollcall--2020-10-06--Trump’s antibody drug out of reach for all but ‘rare’ cases

President Donald Trump , battling COVID-19 over the weekend , extolled the drugs he has received , including one experimental @ @ @ @ @ general public , as “ miracles coming down from God.
” The president ’ s @ @ @ @ @ monoclonal antibody treatment and his apparently improved health will likely drive demand for a drug @ @ @ @ @ for most Americans .
“ It is almost certain that the use of the monoclonal @ @ @ @ @ will increase interest in others in receiving the drug , and potentially other promising [ @ @ @ @ @ said Jesse Goodman , a former Food and Drug Administration chief scientist and deputy commissioner @ @ @ @ @ “ I ’ m quite sure Regeneron is swamped , ” said Alison Bateman-House , @ @ @ @ @ the New York University Grossman School of Medicine .
The unprecedented nature of a president @ @ @ @ @ many ethical and legal questions .
The drug has limited data behind it , and @ @ @ @ @ even authorized on an emergency basis by the FDA .

President Donald Trump, battling COVID-19 over the weekend, extolled the drugs he has received, including one experimental drug not available to the general public, as “miracles coming down from God.”
The president’s praise of Regeneron’s monoclonal antibody treatment and his apparently improved health will likely drive demand for a drug that remains out of reach for most Americans.
“It is almost certain that the use of the monoclonal antibodies for POTUS' treatment will increase interest in others in receiving the drug, and potentially other promising [monoclonal antibodies],” said Jesse Goodman, a former Food and Drug Administration chief scientist and deputy commissioner, in an email.
“I’m quite sure Regeneron is swamped,” said Alison Bateman-House, a bioethicist and professor at the New York University Grossman School of Medicine.
The unprecedented nature of a president taking an experimental drug poses many ethical and legal questions. The drug has limited data behind it, and has not been approved or even authorized on an emergency basis by the FDA.


rollcall--2020-10-06--Trump calls off coronavirus relief package talks until after elections

Mnuchin provided a $ 1.6 trillion counteroffer to Pelosi , which Trump called “ very generous , ” that included $ 250 billion in direct state and local aid .
It is unclear if Pelosi and Mnuchin got any closer on the state and local funding amount since Mnuchin made his counteroffer last Wednesday .
Pelosi , however , told her caucus Tuesday that there was never a $ 1.6 trillion offer , according to the source on the call .
Trump blamed Pelosi for the lack of progress in negotiations , saying the speaker “ is not negotiating in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Trump and his administration , as well as McConnell , for not understanding the gravity of the needs and continuously undervaluing the amount of aid needed .
Leaders of the 50-member , bipartisan Problem Solvers Caucus , which had put together a $ 1.5 trillion framework that Mnuchin used as the basis for his offer , put out a statement claiming a deal was within reach .
They urged leaders of both parties , including the president , to reverse course and get an agreement .
“ Inaction is not an option , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and Tom Reed , R-N.Y. , said in the statement with Reps .
Dusty Johnson , R-S.D.
, and Dean Phillips , D-Minn. , who led the working groups that came up with the $ 1.5 trillion plan .

Mnuchin provided a $1.6 trillion counteroffer to Pelosi, which Trump called “very generous,” that included $250 billion in direct state and local aid. It is unclear if Pelosi and Mnuchin got any closer on the state and local funding amount since Mnuchin made his counteroffer last Wednesday.
Pelosi, however, told her caucus Tuesday that there was never a $1.6 trillion offer, according to the source on the call.
Trump blamed Pelosi for the lack of progress in negotiations, saying the speaker “is not negotiating in good faith.” Democrats have similarly blamed Trump and his administration, as well as McConnell, for not understanding the gravity of the needs and continuously undervaluing the amount of aid needed.
Leaders of the 50-member, bipartisan Problem Solvers Caucus, which had put together a $1.5 trillion framework that Mnuchin used as the basis for his offer, put out a statement claiming a deal was within reach. They urged leaders of both parties, including the president, to reverse course and get an agreement.
“Inaction is not an option,” co-chairs Josh Gottheimer, D-N.J., and Tom Reed, R-N.Y., said in the statement with Reps. Dusty Johnson, R-S.D., and Dean Phillips, D-Minn., who led the working groups that came up with the $1.5 trillion plan.


rollcall--2020-10-06--Supreme Court hears drug benefits case with wide-ranging impact

The Supreme Court heard arguments Tuesday on state regulation of prescription drug benefit companies in a case with potential impacts for health care across most of the country .
Rutledge v. Pharmaceutical Care Management Association addresses a 2015 Arkansas law regulating how pharmacy benefit managers pay for generic drugs by blocking PBMs from marking up profits and underpaying pharmacies .
The law was aimed at protecting independent pharmacies from abusive pricing practices that can force them out of business .
The law requires PBMs to grant an appeal if a pharmacy can prove the reimbursement rate for a drug is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it allows pharmacies to decline to dispense the prescription .
The Supreme Court ’ s decision could affect at least 40 states that regulate PBMs in some form .
At issue is whether the 1974 Employee Retirement Income Security Act , the federal law that regulates self-insured plans , preempts the state ’ s rate regulation law for PBMs of plans that otherwise fall under ERISA .
Arkansas lost the initial lawsuit filed by the PBM lobbying group Pharmaceutical Care Management Association , as well as subsequent appeals , on the grounds that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ program preempt the state law .
Arkansas appealed the ERISA decision to the high court in 2018 .

The Supreme Court heard arguments Tuesday on state regulation of prescription drug benefit companies in a case with potential impacts for health care across most of the country.
Rutledge v. Pharmaceutical Care Management Association addresses a 2015 Arkansas law regulating how pharmacy benefit managers pay for generic drugs by blocking PBMs from marking up profits and underpaying pharmacies. The law was aimed at protecting independent pharmacies from abusive pricing practices that can force them out of business.
The law requires PBMs to grant an appeal if a pharmacy can prove the reimbursement rate for a drug is lower than its acquisition cost, and it allows pharmacies to decline to dispense the prescription. The Supreme Court’s decision could affect at least 40 states that regulate PBMs in some form.
At issue is whether the 1974 Employee Retirement Income Security Act, the federal law that regulates self-insured plans, preempts the state’s rate regulation law for PBMs of plans that otherwise fall under ERISA.
Arkansas lost the initial lawsuit filed by the PBM lobbying group Pharmaceutical Care Management Association, as well as subsequent appeals, on the grounds that ERISA and the Medicare Part D drug program preempt the state law. Arkansas appealed the ERISA decision to the high court in 2018.


rollcall--2020-10-07--10 most vulnerable House members: GOP in suburbs, ‘blue wave’ Democrats

The most competitive House races this cycle reflect the turbulence and rancor that dominate the nation ’ s politics in 2020 .
Many incumbents , in both parties , face perilous paths to reelection , and this list of the 10 most vulnerable provides a snapshot of some of the larger trends at play in battleground districts .
Republicans in suburban stretches , such as Nebraska ’ s Don Bacon , who has moved up to No .
1 , or Ohio ’ s Steve Chabot , who joins the list , will seek to hang on even as their @ @ @ @ @ @ @ As a result , the Democrats ’ map has expanded into districts previously thought safe for the GOP .
Many of those seats are open , however , since potentially vulnerable incumbents opted to leave Congress .
Democrats are still defending 30 House seats that Trump carried in 2016 , many represented by freshmen elected in 2018 ’ s blue wave .
Most of these incumbents hold a strong financial advantage .
They include South Carolina ’ s Joe Cunningham , who comes off the list as Republicans have struggled to chip away @ @ @ @ @ @ @ though , remain in tough fights as they work to polish their brands , separate from their party .
Republicans Rodney Davis of Illinois and Scott Perry of Pennsylvania and Democrat Kendra Horn of Oklahoma fall off the rankings too , but they still face competitive races .
Fifteen-term Minnesota Democrat Collin C. Peterson is back on the list , a nod to Trump ’ s potential strength in rural America .
New to the list of vulnerable incumbents are California Democrat TJ Cox , who will see whether the prevailing winds of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ him to weather ethics problems , and New Jersey Republican Jeff Van Drew , a Democrat-turned-Trump ally in a district where the president is struggling .

Stephanie Akin, Bridget Bowman, and Kate Ackley

The most competitive House races this cycle reflect the turbulence and rancor that dominate the nation’s politics in 2020. Many incumbents, in both parties, face perilous paths to reelection, and this list of the 10 most vulnerable provides a snapshot of some of the larger trends at play in battleground districts.
Republicans in suburban stretches, such as Nebraska’s Don Bacon, who has moved up to No. 1, or Ohio’s Steve Chabot, who joins the list, will seek to hang on even as their constituents increasingly reject President Donald Trump. As a result, the Democrats’ map has expanded into districts previously thought safe for the GOP. Many of those seats are open, however, since potentially vulnerable incumbents opted to leave Congress.
Democrats are still defending 30 House seats that Trump carried in 2016, many represented by freshmen elected in 2018’s blue wave. Most of these incumbents hold a strong financial advantage. They include South Carolina’s Joe Cunningham, who comes off the list as Republicans have struggled to chip away at his moderate profile. Others, though, remain in tough fights as they work to polish their brands, separate from their party.
Republicans Rodney Davis of Illinois and Scott Perry of Pennsylvania and Democrat Kendra Horn of Oklahoma fall off the rankings too, but they still face competitive races. Fifteen-term Minnesota Democrat Collin C. Peterson is back on the list, a nod to Trump’s potential strength in rural America.
New to the list of vulnerable incumbents are California Democrat TJ Cox, who will see whether the prevailing winds of his blue district will be enough for him to weather ethics problems, and New Jersey Republican Jeff Van Drew, a Democrat-turned-Trump ally in a district where the president is struggling.


rollcall--2020-10-07--How safe would a ‘moon suit’ Senate vote on Barrett be?

Senate Republicans are pressing forward with a vote by month ’ s end on Amy Coney Barrett ’ s confirmation to the Supreme Court , even if doing so could risk the health of senators and scores of Capitol Hill workers .
Three Senate Republicans have tested positive for COVID-19 in the last several days and at least two others are self-isolating because they were exposed to the sometimes deadly and highly contagious virus .
But the global pandemic , which is now tearing through Washington ’ s highest levels of power , won ’ t stop the vote , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Wisconsin Republican Sen. Ron Johnson said on Monday that he would go to the Capitol to vote for Barrett , even if he were still infected and contagious with the COVID-19 virus .
“ But if we have to go in and vote , I ’ ve already told the leadership , I ’ ll go in in a moon suit .
We think this is pretty important , ” Johnson said during an interview on 630 KHOW in Denver .
It is doubtful that Johnson is talking about an actual NASA space @ @ @ @ @ @ @ full-body protective gear that medical professionals wear when working with highly infectious patients , which are reminiscent of astronaut flight suits .

Michael Macagnone and Katherine Tully-McManus

Senate Republicans are pressing forward with a vote by month’s end on Amy Coney Barrett’s confirmation to the Supreme Court, even if doing so could risk the health of senators and scores of Capitol Hill workers.
Three Senate Republicans have tested positive for COVID-19 in the last several days, and at least two others are self-isolating because they were exposed to the highly contagious and sometimes deadly virus. But the global pandemic, which is now tearing through Washington’s highest levels of power, won’t stop the vote, at least according to GOP lawmakers.
Wisconsin Republican Sen. Ron Johnson said on Monday that he would go to the Capitol to vote for Barrett, even if he were still infected with the coronavirus and contagious.
“But if we have to go in and vote, I’ve already told the leadership, I’ll go in in a moon suit. We think this is pretty important,” Johnson said during an interview on 630 KHOW in Denver.
It is doubtful that Johnson is talking about an actual NASA spacesuit, but more likely he is referencing the full-body protective gear that medical professionals wear when working with highly infectious patients, which are reminiscent of astronaut flight suits.


rollcall--2020-10-07--Contact-tracing efforts scrutinized after COVID-19  outbreak spreads

Efforts to trace the contacts of officials in Washington should be more intensive , say public health experts who note @ @ @ @ @ government branches .
A number of top officials , including President Donald Trump and three @ @ @ @ @ diagnoses in the past week .
The White House and Capitol Hill don ’ t @ @ @ @ @ of contact-tracing plan that would be recommended for such an outbreak , said David Harvey @ @ @ @ @ National Coalition of STD Directors , which has experience in tracing the contacts of people @ @ @ @ @ estimated that 100 contact tracers may be needed to quickly determine who was exposed at @ @ @ @ @ campaign or Capitol Hill events last week , and any additional follow up from those @ @ @ @ @ s clear there ’ s not a comprehensive outbreak investigation going on at the White @ @ @ @ @ concerning , ” Harvey said in an interview .

Mary Ellen McIntire and Niels Lesniewski

Efforts to trace the contacts of officials in Washington should be more intensive, say public health experts who note that practices vary across different government branches.
A number of top officials, including President Donald Trump and three senators, announced their COVID-19 diagnoses in the past week.
The White House and Capitol Hill don’t appear to have the type of contact-tracing plan that would be recommended for such an outbreak, said David Harvey, the executive director of National Coalition of STD Directors, which has experience in tracing the contacts of people infected with diseases.
He estimated that 100 contact tracers may be needed to quickly determine who was exposed at various White House, Trump campaign or Capitol Hill events last week and conduct any additional follow-up from those cases.
“It’s clear there’s not a comprehensive outbreak investigation going on at the White House, and it is very concerning,” Harvey said in an interview.


rollcall--2020-10-07--5 hysterectomies referred by ICE center, DHS tells Congress

Immigration and Customs Enforcement referred more detainees for hysterectomies at a Georgia facility than previously disclosed , according to a document acting Homeland Security Secretary Chad Wolf submitted to a Senate panel .
“ It is my current understanding based on ICE data that , since 2017 , a total of five individuals at Irwin County Detention Center were referred to certified , credentialed medical professionals at gynecological and obstetrical health care facilities for hysterectomies in compliance with National Commission on Correctional Health Care ( NCCHC ) standards , and three hysterectomies were in fact performed , ” Wolf wrote @ @ @ @ @ @ @ complaint that suggested these procedures were being performed unnecessarily and without informed consent .
The answers , viewed by CQ Roll Call , were in response to a question submitted by Sen. Kamala Harris , D-Calif. , following Wolf ’ s Sept. 23 nomination hearing before the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee .
Harris had asked Wolf , among other things , what percentage of people at the Irwin center received hysterectomies after being referred for other procedures .
“ These recommendations were reviewed by the facility clinical authority and approved @ @ @ @ @ @ @ related to health care are made by medical providers and not law enforcement personnel.
” The allegations of unwanted hysterectomies come from a Sept. 10 whistleblower ’ s complaint to the DHS Office of Inspector General that included accounts from detainees and Dawn Wooten , a nurse who had been employed at that ICE facility in Georgia .
Contrasting reports have since come out regarding the scope and nature of the allegations .

Immigration and Customs Enforcement referred more detainees for hysterectomies at a Georgia facility than previously disclosed, according to a document acting Homeland Security Secretary Chad Wolf submitted to a Senate panel.
“It is my current understanding based on ICE data that, since 2017, a total of five individuals at Irwin County Detention Center were referred to certified, credentialed medical professionals at gynecological and obstetrical health care facilities for hysterectomies in compliance with National Commission on Correctional Health Care (NCCHC) standards, and three hysterectomies were in fact performed,” Wolf wrote in response to questions about a federal complaint that suggested these procedures were being performed unnecessarily and without informed consent.
The answers, viewed by CQ Roll Call, were in response to a question submitted by Sen. Kamala Harris, D-Calif., following Wolf’s Sept. 23 nomination hearing before the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee. Harris had asked Wolf, among other things, what percentage of people at the Irwin center received hysterectomies after being referred for other procedures.
“These recommendations were reviewed by the facility clinical authority and approved,” Wolf said. “Decisions related to health care are made by medical providers and not law enforcement personnel.”
The allegations of unwanted hysterectomies come from a Sept. 10 whistleblower’s complaint to the DHS Office of Inspector General that included accounts from detainees and Dawn Wooten, a nurse who had been employed at that ICE facility in Georgia. Contrasting reports have since come out regarding the scope and nature of the allegations.


rollcall--2020-10-07--Photo of the day: DC’s Barbie pond is ready for Election 2020

Barbie dolls dressed up as Democratic candidates Joe Biden and Kamala Harris wave as part of the election-themed `` Barbie @ @ @ @ @ on Q Street NW in Washington .
The anonymous Barbie curator is known to create @ @ @ @ @ , scenes throughout the year .
They 're visible to all who walk by on @ @ @ @ @ to the social media public at the Instagram handle @ barbie_pond_ave_q ( which boasts over @ @ @ @

(Caroline Brehman/CQ Roll Call)
Barbie dolls dressed up as Democratic candidates Joe Biden and Kamala Harris wave as part of the election-themed "Barbie Pond on Avenue Q" on Q Street NW in Washington.
The anonymous Barbie curator is known to create seasonal, and often political, scenes throughout the year. They're visible to all who walk by on the D.C. street, or to the social media public at the Instagram handle @barbie_pond_ave_q (which boasts over 19,000 followers).


rollcall--2020-10-07--Stand-alone airline bill under discussion after broader coronavirus aid stalls

One day after pulling the plug on a new coronavirus relief package , the Trump administration made a push for piecemeal legislation to help the pandemic-battered airline industry .
Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin and Speaker Nancy Pelosi spoke twice by phone Wednesday about a separate aid package for airlines and agreed to talk again Thursday , Pelosi spokesman Drew Hammill tweeted .
The airlines announced plans last week to begin furloughing thousands of workers in the absence of new federal aid .
Pelosi has signaled a willingness to consider a stand-alone airline bill if a broader pandemic relief package couldn @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Donald Trump appeared to endorse the idea within hours of calling off the broader aid talks , tweeting that Congress should approve $ 25 billion in airline payroll support , along with $ 135 billion for the Paycheck Protection Program , which provides forgivable loans to small businesses .
Trump said both programs could be financed with unspent money from a March aid package .
“ Have this money .
I will sign now !
” he tweeted Tuesday night .
He also tweeted his support for a stand-alone bill providing another round @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .

One day after pulling the plug on a new coronavirus relief package, the Trump administration made a push for piecemeal legislation to help the pandemic-battered airline industry.
Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin and Speaker Nancy Pelosi spoke twice by phone Wednesday about a separate aid package for airlines and agreed to talk again Thursday, Pelosi spokesman Drew Hammill tweeted. The airlines announced plans last week to begin furloughing thousands of workers in the absence of new federal aid.
Pelosi has signaled a willingness to consider a stand-alone airline bill if a broader pandemic relief package couldn’t be negotiated. And President Donald Trump appeared to endorse the idea within hours of calling off the broader aid talks, tweeting that Congress should approve $25 billion in airline payroll support, along with $135 billion for the Paycheck Protection Program, which provides forgivable loans to small businesses.
Trump said both programs could be financed with unspent money from a March aid package. “Have this money. I will sign now!” he tweeted Tuesday night.
He also tweeted his support for a stand-alone bill providing another round of $1,200 tax rebates to individuals.


rollcall--2020-10-07--With or without a debate: Five defense questions the candidates should answer

The first presidential debate may be the last debate for this election cycle but there are serious defense questions the @ @ @ @ @ and the next president will almost certainly have to face .
Senior writer John Donnelly @ @ @ @ @ important defense issues that an incoming administration will face .

The first presidential debate may be the last debate for this election cycle but there are serious defense questions the candidates should be asked, and the next president will almost certainly have to face.
Senior writer John Donnelly unpacks some of the most important defense issues that an incoming administration will face.
[As military rollover deaths increase, families push for change]


rollcall--2020-10-08--Barrett, with Scalia as model, may be a moderate on regulation

Nothing seems likely to deter Senate Republicans from confirming 7th Circuit Court of Appeals Judge Amy Coney Barrett to the Supreme Court — not next month ’ s elections , not three senators in quarantine , and not her relatively blank record on legal principles that underpin the administrative state .
Barrett ’ s confirmation hearings , scheduled for next week , will probably reveal little about how she would rule on any given case and are expected to focus on controversial issues — abortion , gay marriage , the coming election — rather than the doctrines buttressing the federal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a court whose conservatives have signaled a willingness to rethink two bedrocks of administrative law — Chevron deference and the non-delegation doctrine — using legal theories University of Chicago law professor Eric Posner has warned would “ eat away at the constitutional foundations of the New Deal system , which is essential for protecting health and safety , the environment and much else.
” Judges invoke Chevron deference when they ca n't decide what a contested bit of legislation means by accepting a government agency ’ s reasonable understanding of the text .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ n't hand over law-making powers to the executive branch , but the court has upheld Congress ’ s broad allocations of rule-making power to agencies so long as they ’ re limited by some “ intelligible principle.
” Conservative jurists have begun to question the two concepts which , combined , have empowered government agencies by allowing Congress to grant them expansive rule-making discretion and adopting their statutory interpretations in legal disputes .

Nothing seems likely to deter Senate Republicans from confirming 7th Circuit Court of Appeals Judge Amy Coney Barrett to the Supreme Court — not next month’s elections, not three senators in quarantine, and not her relatively blank record on legal principles that underpin the administrative state.
Barrett’s confirmation hearings, scheduled for next week, will probably reveal little about how she would rule on any given case and are expected to focus on controversial issues — abortion, gay marriage, the coming election — rather than the doctrines buttressing the federal regulatory regime.
But Barrett would join a court whose conservatives have signaled a willingness to rethink two bedrocks of administrative law — Chevron deference and the non-delegation doctrine — using legal theories University of Chicago law professor Eric Posner has warned would “eat away at the constitutional foundations of the New Deal system, which is essential for protecting health and safety, the environment and much else.”
Judges invoke Chevron deference when they can't decide what a contested bit of legislation means by accepting a government agency’s reasonable understanding of the text. The non-delegation doctrine says the legislature can't hand over law-making powers to the executive branch, but the court has upheld Congress’s broad allocations of rule-making power to agencies so long as they’re limited by some “intelligible principle.”
Conservative jurists have begun to question the two concepts which, combined, have empowered government agencies by allowing Congress to grant them expansive rule-making discretion and adopting their statutory interpretations in legal disputes.


rollcall--2020-10-08--Fact-checking the debate: Pence, Harris crossed the line on coronavirus

And while outdoor events do mitigate some of the risk of COVID-19 spreading , scientists have made it clear that gatherings such as Judge Amy Coney Barrett ’ s introduction in the Rose Garden are still dangerous .
The CDC classifies large outdoor or indoor gatherings “ where it is difficult for individuals to remain spaced at least 6 feet apart and attendees travel from outside the local area ” as “ highest risk.
” The CDC also recommends mask-wearing among other safety measures to further minimize infection risk .
And while Pence referred to the ceremony as an “ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not entirely accurate .
In addition to the outdoor reception in the Rose Garden , there was also an indoor reception in the White House .
The New York Times published several photos from that reception , which was attended by the president , Barrett and her family , and other prominent Republicans — all maskless and close together .
When asked about the Trump administration ’ s response to COVID-19 , Harris said , “ The president said it was a hoax.
” Trump referred to the Democrats ’ “ new hoax @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a rally on Feb. 28 in South Carolina , but clarified the next day he was referring to Democrats finding fault with his administration ’ s response to the coronavirus , not the virus itself .
At the late February rally , Trump said : “ Now the Democrats are politicizing the coronavirus , you know that , right ?
Coronavirus , they ’ re politicizing it .
We did one of the great jobs .
You say , ‘ How ’ s President Trump doing ?
’ They go , ‘ Oh @ @ @ @ @ @ @ They have no clue .
They don ’ t have any clue .
… They tried the impeachment hoax .
… They tried anything .
… And this is their new hoax.
” The following day , after the first death in the U.S. from the coronavirus , Trump was asked in a press conference if he regretted using the word “ hoax.
” He replied : “ No .
No .
No .
Hoax referring to the action that they take to try and pin this on somebody because we ’ ve @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hoax is on them not — I ’ m not talking about what ’ s happening here .
I ’ m talking what they ’ re doing .
That ’ s the hoax .
”

And while outdoor events do mitigate some of the risk of COVID-19 spreading, scientists have made it clear that gatherings such as Judge Amy Coney Barrett’s introduction in the Rose Garden are still dangerous. The CDC classifies large outdoor or indoor gatherings “where it is difficult for individuals to remain spaced at least 6 feet apart and attendees travel from outside the local area” as “highest risk.” The CDC also recommends mask-wearing among other safety measures to further minimize infection risk.
And while Pence referred to the ceremony as an “outdoor event,” that’s not entirely accurate. In addition to the outdoor reception in the Rose Garden, there was also an indoor reception in the White House. The New York Times published several photos from that reception, which was attended by the president, Barrett and her family, and other prominent Republicans — all maskless and close together.
Trump’s ‘hoax’ comment
When asked about the Trump administration’s response to COVID-19, Harris said, “The president said it was a hoax.” Trump referred to the Democrats’ “new hoax” after talking about the coronavirus at a rally on Feb. 28 in South Carolina, but clarified the next day he was referring to Democrats finding fault with his administration’s response to the coronavirus, not the virus itself.
At the late February rally, Trump said: “Now the Democrats are politicizing the coronavirus, you know that, right? Coronavirus, they’re politicizing it. We did one of the great jobs. You say, ‘How’s President Trump doing?’ They go, ‘Oh, not good, not good.’ They have no clue. They don’t have any clue. … They tried the impeachment hoax. … They tried anything. … And this is their new hoax.”
The following day, after the first death in the U.S. from the coronavirus, Trump was asked in a press conference if he regretted using the word “hoax.” He replied: “No. No. No. Hoax referring to the action that they take to try and pin this on somebody because we’ve done such a good job. The hoax is on them not — I’m not talking about what’s happening here. I’m talking what they’re doing. That’s the hoax.”


rollcall--2020-10-08--Health care rates for 2021 stable, but 2022 may bring challenges

A drop in health care costs is projected to keep insurance rates low in 2021 , but long-term worries about @ @ @ @ @ concerns about potential spikes in future years .
Final rate increases in the individual market @ @ @ @ @ places like Idaho , the District of Columbia and Minnesota .
Several states , including @ @ @ @ @ even expecting price drops .
The absence of headline-grabbing premium hikes removes one political hazard @ @ @ @ @ an election year already fraught with health care battles , from the pandemic , prescription @ @ @ @ @ bills to Nov. 10 Supreme Court arguments over the 2010 health care law .
In @ @ @ @ @ 2016 campaign , Trump repeatedly criticized newly announced double-digit premium increases for voters who got @ @ @ @ @ website , especially in battleground states such as Arizona , Florida and Pennsylvania .
“ @ @ @ @ @ have such great health care at a tiny fraction of the cost , and it @ @ @ @ @ so easy , ” Trump said at an October 2016 rally in Florida .

A drop in health care costs is projected to keep insurance rates low in 2021, but long-term worries about the COVID-19 pandemic are raising concerns about potential spikes in future years.
Final rate increases in the individual market are under 5 percent in places like Idaho, the District of Columbia and Minnesota. Several states, including Hawaii and Oregon, are even expecting price drops.
The absence of headline-grabbing premium hikes removes one political hazard for President Donald Trump in an election year already fraught with health care battles, from the pandemic, prescription drug prices and surprise medical bills to Nov. 10 Supreme Court arguments over the 2010 health care law.
In the closing days of the 2016 campaign, Trump repeatedly criticized newly announced double-digit premium increases for voters who got insurance through the federal HealthCare.gov website, especially in battleground states such as Arizona, Florida and Pennsylvania.
“You’re going to have such great health care at a tiny fraction of the cost, and it’s going to be so easy,” Trump said at an October 2016 rally in Florida.


rollcall--2020-10-08--Supreme Court confirmation hearing starts under 2020 cloud

The Supreme Court confirmation hearing for Amy Coney Barrett starts Monday amid a very 2020 backdrop : Beset by COVID-19 , sharply divided along political lines , conducted with the help of remote videoconferencing , with sweeping policies on health care , abortion and more hanging in the balance .
Senate Republicans will press to swiftly confirm the 48-year-old federal appeals court judge and former law professor before the Nov. 3 presidential election .
That would establish a 6-3 majority for the court ’ s conservative wing and solidify that tilt for what could be decades .
President Donald Trump @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a priority over another coronavirus relief bill , even as he is isolated in the White House and off the campaign trail after his hospitalization for COVID-19 , which he might have contracted at a Rose Garden announcement for Barrett ’ s nomination on Sept. 26 .
“ It will be fast and easy !
” Trump tweeted about Barrett ’ s confirmation .
It was in response to an author ’ s suggestion that the Barrett confirmation battle would be “ bloody ” because Barrett would “ help pick the next president @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s apparent plan to have Barrett on the bench in time to rule on any contested election .
Two Senate Judiciary Committee members , Republicans Mike Lee of Utah and Thom Tillis of North Carolina , are expected to appear remotely as they self-isolate because they tested positive for COVID-19 after attending the Barrett announcement event .

The Supreme Court confirmation hearing for Amy Coney Barrett starts Monday amid a very 2020 backdrop: Beset by COVID-19, sharply divided along political lines, conducted with the help of remote videoconferencing, with sweeping policies on health care, abortion and more hanging in the balance.
Senate Republicans will press to swiftly confirm the 48-year-old federal appeals court judge and former law professor before the Nov. 3 presidential election. That would establish a 6-3 majority for the court’s conservative wing and solidify that tilt for what could be decades.
President Donald Trump has urged the Senate to make it a priority over another coronavirus relief bill, even as he is isolated in the White House and off the campaign trail after his hospitalization for COVID-19, which he might have contracted at a Rose Garden announcement for Barrett’s nomination on Sept. 26.
“It will be fast and easy!” Trump tweeted about Barrett’s confirmation. It was in response to an author’s suggestion that the Barrett confirmation battle would be “bloody” because Barrett would “help pick the next president”— an allusion to the president’s apparent plan to have Barrett on the bench in time to rule on any contested election.


rollcall--2020-10-08--Pence, Harris have civil debate, but do not answer questions on COVID and other topics

With plexiglass barriers on stage to help shield the participants from coronavirus droplets , pandemic response was a predictable focus of Wednesday night 's vice presidential debate .
But while Vice President Mike Pence and Sen. Kamala Harris were more civil with each other on a stage at the University of Utah than President Donald Trump and former Vice President Joe Biden were with each other last week in Cleveland , many of the key questions were left hanging .
Pence did not answer whether the American people deserve detailed information on Trump 's medical records , though he did @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` The transparency that they practiced all along the way will continue .
The American people have a right to know about the health and well-being of their president , and we 'll continue to do that , '' Pence said in response to a question from moderator Susan Page of USA Today .
The problem is that Trump 's doctors and other White House personnel have declined to answer some significant questions about the president 's diagnosis since he first tested positive for coronavirus late last week — including whether he tested @ @ @ @ @ @ @ presidential debate .

With plexiglass barriers on stage to help shield the participants from coronavirus droplets, pandemic response was a predictable focus of Wednesday night's vice presidential debate.
But while Vice President Mike Pence and Sen. Kamala Harris were more civil with each other on a stage at the University of Utah than President Donald Trump and former Vice President Joe Biden were with each other last week in Cleveland, many of the key questions were left hanging.
Pence did not answer whether the American people deserve detailed information on Trump's medical records, though he did offer praise for White House doctors.
"The transparency that they practiced all along the way will continue. The American people have a right to know about the health and well-being of their president, and we'll continue to do that," Pence said in response to a question from moderator Susan Page of USA Today.
The problem is that Trump's doctors and other White House personnel have declined to answer some significant questions about the president's diagnosis since he first tested positive for coronavirus late last week — including whether he tested negative the day of the Sept. 29 presidential debate. They also won't specify whether he has tested negative as far back as Sept. 20.


rollcall--2020-10-08--Despite debate talk, Biden virus approach differs from Trump’s

Former Vice President Joe Biden ’ s plan for addressing the COVID-19 pandemic has much in common with what the Trump administration has attempted so far , but Biden ’ s overall approach would likely differ from Trump ’ s in important ways , experts say .
Both campaigns emphasize access to testing , developing vaccines and making more medical supplies in the United States .
The broad similarities provided Vice President Mike Pence with a stinging attack line in Wednesday night ’ s debate with Biden ’ s running mate , Sen. Kamala Harris , D-Calif. “ When you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ reads an awful lot like what President Trump and I and our task force have been doing every step of the way , ” Pence said , describing the plan as “ plagiarism ” and alluding to a 1987 incident when Biden copied a British politician ’ s speech .
But Biden seems more likely to unify the planning into a cohesive national strategy and respect science , public health experts say , while President Donald Trump has prioritized reopening the economy over safety .
Trump also has personally shared misinformation and flouted @ @ @ @ @ @ @ key difference between the candidates is the role of the federal government , said Jennifer Kates , senior vice president and director of global health and HIV policy at the nonpartisan Henry J. Kaiser Family Foundation .

Former Vice President Joe Biden’s plan for addressing the COVID-19 pandemic has much in common with what the Trump administration has attempted so far, but Biden’s overall approach would likely differ from Trump’s in important ways, experts say.
Both campaigns emphasize access to testing, developing vaccines and making more medical supplies in the United States. The broad similarities provided Vice President Mike Pence with a stinging attack line in Wednesday night’s debate with Biden’s running mate, Sen. Kamala Harris, D-Calif.
“When you look at the Biden plan, it reads an awful lot like what President Trump and I and our task force have been doing every step of the way,” Pence said, describing the plan as “plagiarism” and alluding to a 1987 incident when Biden copied a British politician’s speech.
But Biden seems more likely to unify the planning into a cohesive national strategy and respect science, public health experts say, while President Donald Trump has prioritized reopening the economy over safety. Trump also has personally shared misinformation and flouted his own administration's plans.
Another key difference between the candidates is the role of the federal government, said Jennifer Kates, senior vice president and director of global health and HIV policy at the nonpartisan Henry J. Kaiser Family Foundation.


rollcall--2020-10-08--The odd, hybrid world of the vice presidency

The vice presidency is a strange office , a hybrid of both the executive branch and the legislative branch .
The occupant breaks ties on Senate votes and can preside over the counting of their own electoral votes in a joint session of Congress .
So Wednesday night ’ s vice presidential debate between Mike Pence and Kamala Harris carried with it more significance as we brace for a possibly disputed election , a Supreme Court nomination fight and , oh yeah , health and age questions surrounding the men at the top of their tickets .
Former Vice President @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the vice presidency as “ not worth a bucket of warm piss.
” A lot has changed since Garner was Franklin D. Roosevelt ’ s first veep , and judging from the ferocious competition to be politics ’ most famous No .
2 , it is probably worth a bit more these days .
Which brings us to the current Republican vice president , Pence , and the Democrat who wants to replace him , California ’ s junior senator , Harris .
With President Donald Trump knocked off the trail by his @ @ @ @ @ @ @ campaign ’ s most prominent surrogate .
And Harris is about to assume a prominent role as she leaves the trail to take part in the Senate Judiciary Committee ’ s Supreme Court hearings for Judge Amy Coney Barrett , where she will likely use her time to call attention to issues she feels will be to the advantage of the Biden-Harris ticket .

The vice presidency is a strange office, a hybrid of both the executive branch and the legislative branch. The occupant breaks ties on Senate votes and can preside over the counting of their own electoral votes in a joint session of Congress. So Wednesday night’s vice presidential debate between Mike Pence and Kamala Harris carried with it more significance as we brace for a possibly disputed election, a Supreme Court nomination fight and, oh yeah, health and age questions surrounding the men at the top of their tickets.
Former Vice President John “Cactus Jack” Garner described the vice presidency as “not worth a bucket of warm piss.” A lot has changed since Garner was Franklin D. Roosevelt’s first veep, and judging from the ferocious competition to be politics’ most famous No. 2, it is probably worth a bit more these days.
Which brings us to the current Republican vice president, Pence, and the Democrat who wants to replace him, California’s junior senator, Harris.
With President Donald Trump knocked off the trail by his COVID-19 diagnosis, Pence has become the campaign’s most prominent surrogate. And Harris is about to assume a prominent role as she leaves the trail to take part in the Senate Judiciary Committee’s Supreme Court hearings for Judge Amy Coney Barrett, where she will likely use her time to call attention to issues she feels will be to the advantage of the Biden-Harris ticket.


rollcall--2020-10-08--Special counsel raps Perdue for political talk on taxpayer dime

Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue crossed the line in August when he told a North Carolina audience during an official visit that they could get another four years of a “ decider-in-chief ” if America votes for President Donald Trump , the U.S. Office of Special Counsel said Thursday .
The government watchdog said Perdue ’ s comments at the Aug. 24 event in Mills River , N.C. , violated the Hatch Act , but that there will be no disciplinary action if he quickly reimburses the U.S. Treasury for travel costs paid for by taxpayers .
The law generally bars @ @ @ @ @ @ @ while on duty , but exempts the president and vice president .
The Office of Special Counsel decision comes in response to a complaint filed by the Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington that Perdue ’ s comments during the trip with Trump and an adviser to the president , Ivanka Trump , to tout a $ 1 billion boost to the USDA ’ s Farmers to Families Food Box Program constituted political activity while doing official government work .
The original $ 3 billion program was established to help farmers and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ because of COVID-19 supply chain disruptions cut their losses while providing food to food banks and other nonprofits dealing with a surge in demand .
Congress provided authority and funding for the program in two COVID-19 relief laws .

Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue crossed the line in August when he told a North Carolina audience during an official visit that they could get another four years of a “decider-in-chief” if America votes for President Donald Trump, the U.S. Office of Special Counsel said Thursday.
The government watchdog said Perdue’s comments at the Aug. 24 event in Mills River, N.C., violated the Hatch Act, but that there will be no disciplinary action if he quickly reimburses the U.S. Treasury for travel costs paid for by taxpayers. The law generally bars federal employees from engaging in political activities while on duty, but exempts the president and vice president.
The Office of Special Counsel decision comes in response to a complaint filed by the Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington that Perdue’s comments during the trip with Trump and an adviser to the president, Ivanka Trump, to tout a $1 billion boost to the USDA’s Farmers to Families Food Box Program constituted political activity while doing official government work.
The original $3 billion program was established to help farmers and food distributors who lost markets and customers because of COVID-19 supply chain disruptions cut their losses while providing food to food banks and other nonprofits dealing with a surge in demand. Congress provided authority and funding for the program in two COVID-19 relief laws.
CREW Executive Director Noah Bookbinder welcomed the reprimand of Perdue.


rollcall--2020-10-08--Photo of the day: Dancin’ Manchin throwback edition

Ten years ago this week was a real party on the campaign trail .
Sen. Joe Manchin III , then @ @ @ @ @ took to the dance floor at a senior services center in Morgantown .
The Democrat @ @ @ @ @ Sen. Robert C. Byrd ’ s seat against Republican nominee John Raese , a race @ @ @ @ @ 10 points , beating back the 2010 GOP wave .
This # throwbackthursday has CQ @ @ @ @ @ nostalgic for the election trail .
With most of the in-person campaigning shuttered due to @ @ @ @ @ photo team is stuck in D.C. We look forward to bringing readers a look at @ @ @ @ @ the country during future election cycles .

(Scott J. Ferrell/CQ Roll Call file photo)
Ten years ago this week was a real party on the campaign trail. Sen. Joe Manchin III, then governor of West Virginia, took to the dance floor at a senior services center in Morgantown. The Democrat was running for the late Sen. Robert C. Byrd’s seat against Republican nominee John Raese, a race he ended up winning by 10 points, beating back the 2010 GOP wave.
This #throwbackthursday has CQ Roll Call’s photojournalists nostalgic for the election trail. With most of the in-person campaigning shuttered due to the coronavirus pandemic, your photo team is stuck in D.C. We look forward to bringing readers a look at Senate and House races across the country during future election cycles.


rollcall--2020-10-08--McConnell keeps distance from White House, citing doubts about COVID-19 protocols

Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell , R-Ky. , said Thursday he has actively avoided the White House since early August @ @ @ @ @ is not taking enough precautions against COVID-19 .
Speaking in his home state of Kentucky @ @ @ @ @ frequently with President Donald Trump on the phone , but has opted out of visiting @ @ @ @ @ last trip there on Aug. 6 .
“ Because my impression was their approach to @ @ @ @ @ different from mine and what I insisted that we do in the Senate , which @ @ @ @ @ and practice social distancing , ” McConnell told reporters .
At an event in Bourbon @ @ @ @ @ later on Thursday , he took a more direct jab at the White House protocols @ @ @ @ @ ’ t feel that they were approaching protection from this illness in the same way @ @ @ @ @ for the Senate , and the Senate has been operating in a way that I @ @ @ @ @ of this disease , ” he said .

Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., said Thursday he has actively avoided the White House since early August over concerns the Trump administration is not taking enough precautions against COVID-19.
Speaking in his home state of Kentucky, McConnell said he speaks frequently with President Donald Trump on the phone, but has opted out of visiting the White House since his last trip there on Aug. 6.
“Because my impression was their approach to how to handle this is different from mine and what I insisted that we do in the Senate, which is to wear a mask and practice social distancing,” McConnell told reporters.
At an event in Bourbon, County, Ky., later on Thursday, he took a more direct jab at the White House protocols.
“I personally didn’t feel that they were approaching protection from this illness in the same way that I thought was appropriate for the Senate, and the Senate has been operating in a way that I think has largely prevented contraction of this disease,” he said.


rollcall--2020-10-08--At the Races: Make debates no-fly zones

At the Races: Make debates no-fly zones

Welcome to At the Races !
Each week we ’ ll bring you news and analysis from the CQ Roll Call team that will keep you informed about the 2020 election .
Know someone who ’ d like to get this newsletter ?
They can subscribe here .
President Donald Trump ’ s response to the coronavirus pandemic dominated the start of last night ’ s debate between Vice President Mike Pence and California Sen. Kamala Harris , Joe Biden ’ s running mate .
The debate came six days after Trump tested positive for COVID-19 , ensuring the health @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the final weeks of the campaign .
Pence hasn ’ t been the only one facing questions about the president ’ s handling of the crisis .
Vulnerable GOP senators have also been asked to grade Trump ’ s response in debates over the last week .
Pressed on the issue during a debate Tuesday , Arizona Sen. Martha McSally acknowledged that “ mistakes were made at all levels ” but praised Trump ’ s decision to impose travel restrictions on China .
Her Democratic opponent , Mark Kelly , criticized the administration @ @ @ @ @ @ @ statistic that the U.S. accounts for more than 20 percent of the world ’ s deaths from the virus despite making up just 4 percent of the global population .
Trump ’ s diagnosis and an outbreak at the Capitol have also shaken up the campaign trail .
Vulnerable North Carolina Republican Thom Tillis tested positive and has been in quarantine , with the senator ’ s campaign shuttering its headquarters in Charlotte .
But some Republicans are still forging ahead with in-person events , including appointed Georgia Sen. Kelly Loeffler , who @ @ @ @ @ @ @ her campaign events to wear masks .
“ I want to keep people safe , but I also want to keep people free and I don ’ t think we can mandate masks , ” she said .

Kate Ackley, Stephanie Akin, and Bridget Bowman

Welcome to At the Races! Each week we’ll bring you news and analysis from the CQ Roll Call team that will keep you informed about the 2020 election. Know someone who’d like to get this newsletter? They can subscribe here.
President Donald Trump’s response to the coronavirus pandemic dominated the start of last night’s debate between Vice President Mike Pence and California Sen. Kamala Harris, Joe Biden’s running mate. The debate came six days after Trump tested positive for COVID-19, ensuring the health crisis would remain front and center in the final weeks of the campaign.
Pence hasn’t been the only one facing questions about the president’s handling of the crisis. Vulnerable GOP senators have also been asked to grade Trump’s response in debates over the last week. Pressed on the issue during a debate Tuesday, Arizona Sen. Martha McSally acknowledged that “mistakes were made at all levels” but praised Trump’s decision to impose travel restrictions on China. Her Democratic opponent, Mark Kelly, criticized the administration’s response and repeatedly cited the statistic that the U.S. accounts for more than 20 percent of the world’s deaths from the virus despite making up just 4 percent of the global population.
Trump’s diagnosis and an outbreak at the Capitol have also shaken up the campaign trail. Vulnerable North Carolina Republican Thom Tillis tested positive and has been in quarantine, with the senator’s campaign shuttering its headquarters in Charlotte.
But some Republicans are still forging ahead with in-person events, including appointed Georgia Sen. Kelly Loeffler, who said she will not require people attending her campaign events to wear masks. “I want to keep people safe, but I also want to keep people free and I don’t think we can mandate masks,” she said.


rollcall--2020-10-08--Pelosi: No airline aid bill without broader coronavirus relief package

Speaker Nancy Pelosi quashed talk of a separate bill to mitigate airline industry layoffs without also aiding other industries and @ @ @ @ @ , nationwide COVID-19 testing and more .
`` There is no stand-alone bill without a @ @ @ @ @ said at her weekly press conference Thursday .
Pelosi spoke to Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin @ @ @ @ @ possibility of an airline aid bill , which has emerged as the main area of @ @ @ @ @ Trump called off talks on a broader COVID-19 relief package earlier this week .
“ @ @ @ @ @ to the administration last night is that we ’ re happy to review what that @ @ @ @ @ as part of a bigger bill if there is a bigger bill , ” she @ @ @ @ @ is willing to move airline aid separately but only if there 's `` a guarantee @ @ @ @ @ be a larger package containing aid for state and local governments , schools , testing @ @ @ @ @ well as unemployment assistance and workplace safety regulations .

Speaker Nancy Pelosi quashed talk of a separate bill to mitigate airline industry layoffs without also aiding other industries and households and funding for schools, nationwide COVID-19 testing and more.
"There is no stand-alone bill without a bigger bill," Pelosi said at her weekly press conference Thursday.
Pelosi spoke to Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin on Wednesday night about the possibility of an airline aid bill, which has emerged as the main area of bipartisan agreement after President Donald Trump called off talks on a broader COVID-19 relief package earlier this week.
“The comment that I made to the administration last night is that we’re happy to review what that stand-alone bill would look like as part of a bigger bill if there is a bigger bill,” she said.
Pelosi said she is willing to move airline aid separately but only if there's "a guarantee" that there will also be a larger package containing aid for state and local governments, schools, testing and contact tracing, as well as unemployment assistance and workplace safety regulations.


rollcall--2020-10-08--Joe Biden, Clarence Thomas and Amy Coney Barrett with Angela Wright

It is not everyday that one person has a relationship to so many of the day ’ s main news @ @ @ @ @ has touched history as the woman not called to support Anita Hill when she testified @ @ @ @ @ during Clarence Thomas ’ confirmation hearings almost 30 years ago .
Wright talks to Mary @ @ @ @ @ President Joe Biden , # MeToo and the inner workings of a contentious Supreme Court @ @ @ @ @ , Ruth Bader Ginsburg and the future of our country with Fatima Goss Graves • @ @ @ @ @ a win by Joe Biden should not be one

Mary C. Curtis, Joanne Levine, and Evan Campbell

It is not everyday that one person has a relationship to so many of the day’s main news stories, but Angela Wright has touched history as the woman not called to support Anita Hill when she testified before the Senate Judiciary Committee during Clarence Thomas’ confirmation hearings almost 30 years ago. Wright talks to Mary C. Curtis about former Vice President Joe Biden, #MeToo and the inner workings of a contentious Supreme Court battle.
Show Notes:


rollcall--2020-10-09--Vote back on in Minnesota as Rep. Angie Craig wins challenge over delay

A federal judge said Friday the election for Minnesota ’ s 2nd District , which had been postponed until February because of the death of a third-party candidate , should be held on Election Day after all .
Democratic-Farmer-Labor incumbent Angie Craig sued late last month after state officials postponed the election , and on Friday , a federal judge granted her an injunction .
Her Republican opponent , Tyler Kistner , opposed Craig ’ s legal challenge and plans to appeal .
The death of Adam Weeks , the Legal Marijuana Now Party candidate , triggered a state law @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be held in February if a major party candidate dies within 79 days of a November election .
The delay likely would have meant the congressional district would have been without a representative during the first weeks of the new Congress .
Since ballots had already been printed and people were voting , the state ’ s order had said votes in the 2nd District race , in which Craig was seeking a second term , would not be counted .
U.S. District Judge Wilhelmina M. Wright wrote that the Minnesota secretary of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of Minnesota ’ s voters to vote in the November 3 , 2020 general election .
”

A federal judge said Friday the election for Minnesota’s 2nd District, which had been postponed until February because of the death of a third-party candidate, should be held on Election Day after all.
Democratic-Farmer-Labor incumbent Angie Craig sued late last month after state officials postponed the election, and on Friday, a federal judge granted her an injunction. Her Republican opponent, Tyler Kistner, opposed Craig’s legal challenge and plans to appeal.
The death of Adam Weeks, the Legal Marijuana Now Party candidate, triggered a state law that says a special election has to be held in February if a major party candidate dies within 79 days of a November election. The delay likely would have meant the congressional district would have been without a representative during the first weeks of the new Congress.
Since ballots had already been printed and people were voting, the state’s order had said votes in the 2nd District race, in which Craig was seeking a second term, would not be counted.
U.S. District Judge Wilhelmina M. Wright wrote that the Minnesota secretary of state “shall not impede the right of Minnesota’s voters to vote in the November 3, 2020 general election.”


rollcall--2020-10-09--White House sweetens pandemic aid, but gaps remain with Democrats

The Trump administration moved closer to Democrats in coronavirus aid talks Friday , saying it was prepared to accept up to $ 2 trillion in new relief .
Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin offered $ 1.8 trillion to Speaker Nancy Pelosi , D-Calif. , but the Trump administration is willing to go higher so long as the top line remains `` below $ 2 trillion , '' White House Director of Strategic Communications Alyssa Farah told reporters Friday .
The revised package would exceed a $ 1.62 trillion offer that Mnuchin presented to Pelosi last week .
It still falls short @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Democrat-controlled House passed in a mostly party-line vote last week before adjourning for a monthlong recess .
At between $ 1.8 trillion and $ 2 trillion , the offer would mark a policy reversal for President Donald Trump , who on Tuesday called off negotiations on a broad pandemic relief package until after the Nov. 3 election .
The stock market dipped after that decision and both parties have faced political pressure to reach a deal .
Trump himself suggested a bigger package was coming , tweeting early Friday that `` Covid @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Big !
”

The Trump administration moved closer to Democrats in coronavirus aid talks Friday, saying it was prepared to accept up to $2 trillion in new relief.
Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin offered $1.8 trillion to Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., but the Trump administration is willing to go higher so long as the top line remains "below $2 trillion," White House Director of Strategic Communications Alyssa Farah told reporters Friday.
The revised package would exceed a $1.62 trillion offer that Mnuchin presented to Pelosi last week. It still falls short of the $2.2 trillion aid package the Democrat-controlled House passed in a mostly party-line vote last week before adjourning for a monthlong recess.
At between $1.8 trillion and $2 trillion, the offer would mark a policy reversal for President Donald Trump, who on Tuesday called off negotiations on a broad pandemic relief package until after the Nov. 3 election. The stock market dipped after that decision and both parties have faced political pressure to reach a deal.
Trump himself suggested a bigger package was coming, tweeting early Friday that "Covid Relief Negotiations are moving along. Go Big!”


rollcall--2020-10-09--Still no Capitol testing regimen, despite lawmaker pressure

Lawmakers continued to press for widespread testing in the Capitol complex Friday as another member announced they had contracted COVID-19 .
Sen. Christopher S. Murphy , D-Conn. , told reporters on a press call that he had not heard any reports of progress on Senatewide testing and called it “ an abomination.
” Murphy , the ranking Democrat on the Legislative Branch Appropriations Subcommittee , said , “ The cost is likely negligible in the grand scheme of things .
So the issue here is not , is not , cost .
The issue is a Republican Senate majority that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ people know the extent of the spread in the White House , and in their caucus.
” Murphy ’ s call for more testing comes as another member of Congress , Illinois Republican Rep. Mike Bost , said the COVID-19 test he sought after experiencing symptoms was positive .
Bost said he will be quarantining and his office will reach out to any constituents that he ’ s met with in recent days .
All public events will be postponed , he said , but Bost “ will continue conducting virtual meetings as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ several other members , including Republican Sens .
Ron Johnson of Wisconsin , Mike Lee of Utah and Thom Tillis of North Carolina , who announced recent positive tests .
Lee and Tillis attended a White House Rose Garden event last month and were spotted sitting close to other lawmakers and members of the Trump administration .

Lawmakers continued to press for widespread testing in the Capitol complex Friday as another member announced they had contracted COVID-19.
Sen. Christopher S. Murphy, D-Conn., told reporters on a press call that he had not heard any reports of progress on Senatewide testing and called it “an abomination.” Murphy, the ranking Democrat on the Legislative Branch Appropriations Subcommittee, said, “The cost is likely negligible in the grand scheme of things. So the issue here is not, is not, cost. The issue is a Republican Senate majority that just doesn’t want to let people know the extent of the spread in the White House, and in their caucus.”
Murphy’s call for more testing comes as another member of Congress, Illinois Republican Rep. Mike Bost, said the COVID-19 test he sought after experiencing symptoms was positive.
Bost said he will be quarantining and his office will reach out to any constituents that he’s met with in recent days. All public events will be postponed, he said, but Bost “will continue conducting virtual meetings as I isolate at home.”
Bost joins several other members, including Republican Sens. Ron Johnson of Wisconsin, Mike Lee of Utah and Thom Tillis of North Carolina, who announced recent positive tests. Lee and Tillis attended a White House Rose Garden event last month and were spotted sitting close to other lawmakers and members of the Trump administration.