cnbc--2020-12-16--Op-ed: The U.S. and EU have a lot of work to do to rebuild their trade relationship

American and European policymakers are saying all the right things about a new approach to transatlantic trade .
The last few years have been marked by bilateral tensions that have handicapped efforts to work together on key issues like China or WTO reform , and Joe Biden 's election has convinced many that the time for a productive joint agenda is finally here .
This has led to numerous pronouncements about a new era of cooperation and `` changing the world . ''
Establishing the trust needed for a truly productive working relationship will require both sides to abandon unilateralist @ @ @ @ @ @ @ side , this includes a revocation of the steel and aluminum tariffs imposed on the EU and a rethink of its latest `` Buy America '' proposals .
For Europe , this means halting `` asymmetric '' taxation and regulation that targets U.S. companies and workers , including the Digital Markets Act proposal released this week .
The level of ambition and rhetoric on both sides of the Atlantic is currently sky high .
The president-elect has called for rebuilding trust with the EU and returning to multilateralism .
Meanwhile , the chairman @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is promoting a new U.S.-EU trade arrangement that sounds similar to the previously abandoned Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership .
European officials have kept pace .
In early December , the Commission released a `` new forward-looking transatlantic agenda '' that would resolve longstanding bilateral trade irritants , set joint standards on emerging technologies , constrain China 's unfair trade practices , and modernize the WTO , among other ideas .
Likewise , some senior EU trade officials have talked openly about how much easier it will be to work with the Biden @ @ @ @ @ @ @ optimism .
The United States and Europe have much in common – a commitment to democracy and free markets , a pressing need to protect businesses and workers from China 's unfair trade practices , and joint responsibility for the WTO 's creation .
And for the first time in years , high-level U.S. and EU political leadership appears to understand the importance of setting aside bilateral differences to focus on more existential problems .
But behind all of the `` happy talk , '' important things remain unsaid and certain troubling actions @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rebuild trust , the United States must reverse the steel and aluminum tariffs imposed on the EU .
During my time at the White House , there was no other issue that troubled my European colleagues more than being targeted by U.S. tariffs in the name of national security .
President-elect Biden has so far been quiet on this topic .
Hopefully he will quickly realize that the best way to address distortions in the steel and aluminum markets caused by Chinese excess capacity is not to target the EU , but to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ States in targeting China and in rallying the rest of the world to do the same .
The Biden administration must also modify what the campaign pledged on `` Buy America , '' a policy that particularly irks the EU and directly contributed to TTIP 's demise .
Again , I 'm hopeful that the president-elect will soon recognize that there are more effective ways to promote domestic production in strategic industries at home without causing tension abroad .
In particular , a robust program of targeted subsidies , research and development spending @ @ @ @ @ @ @ industries can better achieve laudable U.S. objectives without the transatlantic headache .
Europe must also show political courage , match its deeds to its words , and reverse its own unilateralism .
Make no mistake , a tax policy that gerrymanders size and business model thresholds to target American digital companies for revenue while exempting European ones is no less unilateral than U.S. steel and aluminum tariffs .
And remaining committed to negotiations at the OECD before taking action that significantly harms an ally is no less important than trying to solve problems @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Markets Act , released just this week , also threatens to significantly strain the alliance .
Once again , the EU is engaging in asymmetric policymaking that targets American firms for regulation and massive fines while using creative thresholds to exempt European digital and non-digital rivals .
To make matters worse , the EU 's constant invocation of the need for `` digital sovereignty '' suggests this is not coincidental , but a concerted plan to shield EU champions from foreign competition .
The EU 's decision to forge ahead alone also stands @ @ @ @ @ @ @ agenda , which proposes joint standard-setting with the United States .
The EU must reverse course , resist its growing unilateral urge on digital issues , and actually coordinate with its ally before moving forward .
None of these shifts in policy will be easy .
But they are what is needed to truly reset the trade relationship between the United States and Europe and to demonstrate that the recent optimism is justified .
Clete Willems is a Partner at Akin , Gump , Strauss , Hauer & Feld , a CNBC contributor @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Atlantic Council .
His proposal for a joint U.S.-EU WTO reform agenda is available here .

American and European policymakers are saying all the right things about a new approach to transatlantic trade.
The last few years have been marked by bilateral tensions that have handicapped efforts to work together on key issues like China or WTO reform, and Joe Biden's election has convinced many that the time for a productive joint agenda is finally here. This has led to numerous pronouncements about a new era of cooperation and "changing the world."
But talk is cheap.
Establishing the trust needed for a truly productive working relationship will require both sides to abandon unilateralist measures and tendencies. On the U.S. side, this includes a revocation of the steel and aluminum tariffs imposed on the EU and a rethink of its latest "Buy America" proposals. For Europe, this means halting "asymmetric" taxation and regulation that targets U.S. companies and workers, including the Digital Markets Act proposal released this week.
The level of ambition and rhetoric on both sides of the Atlantic is currently sky high. The president-elect has called for rebuilding trust with the EU and returning to multilateralism. Meanwhile, the chairman of the House Ways & Means Committee is promoting a new U.S.-EU trade arrangement that sounds similar to the previously abandoned Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership.
European officials have kept pace. In early December, the Commission released a "new forward-looking transatlantic agenda" that would resolve longstanding bilateral trade irritants, set joint standards on emerging technologies, constrain China's unfair trade practices, and modernize the WTO, among other ideas. Likewise, some senior EU trade officials have talked openly about how much easier it will be to work with the Biden administration.
There is certainly reason for optimism. The United States and Europe have much in common – a commitment to democracy and free markets, a pressing need to protect businesses and workers from China's unfair trade practices, and joint responsibility for the WTO's creation. And for the first time in years, high-level U.S. and EU political leadership appears to understand the importance of setting aside bilateral differences to focus on more existential problems.
But behind all of the "happy talk," important things remain unsaid and certain troubling actions may speak louder than words.
To rebuild trust, the United States must reverse the steel and aluminum tariffs imposed on the EU. During my time at the White House, there was no other issue that troubled my European colleagues more than being targeted by U.S. tariffs in the name of national security. President-elect Biden has so far been quiet on this topic. Hopefully he will quickly realize that the best way to address distortions in the steel and aluminum markets caused by Chinese excess capacity is not to target the EU, but to ask the EU to join the United States in targeting China and in rallying the rest of the world to do the same.
The Biden administration must also modify what the campaign pledged on "Buy America," a policy that particularly irks the EU and directly contributed to TTIP's demise.
Again, I'm hopeful that the president-elect will soon recognize that there are more effective ways to promote domestic production in strategic industries at home without causing tension abroad. In particular, a robust program of targeted subsidies, research and development spending, and public-private partnerships to promote strategic industries can better achieve laudable U.S. objectives without the transatlantic headache.
Europe must also show political courage, match its deeds to its words, and reverse its own unilateralism. Make no mistake, a tax policy that gerrymanders size and business model thresholds to target American digital companies for revenue while exempting European ones is no less unilateral than U.S. steel and aluminum tariffs. And remaining committed to negotiations at the OECD before taking action that significantly harms an ally is no less important than trying to solve problems through the WTO.
Europe's Digital Markets Act, released just this week, also threatens to significantly strain the alliance. Once again, the EU is engaging in asymmetric policymaking that targets American firms for regulation and massive fines while using creative thresholds to exempt European digital and non-digital rivals.
To make matters worse, the EU's constant invocation of the need for "digital sovereignty" suggests this is not coincidental, but a concerted plan to shield EU champions from foreign competition. The EU's decision to forge ahead alone also stands in stark contrast to its own transatlantic agenda, which proposes joint standard-setting with the United States. The EU must reverse course, resist its growing unilateral urge on digital issues, and actually coordinate with its ally before moving forward.
None of these shifts in policy will be easy. But they are what is needed to truly reset the trade relationship between the United States and Europe and to demonstrate that the recent optimism is justified.
Clete Willems is a Partner at Akin, Gump, Strauss, Hauer & Feld, a CNBC contributor, and a Nonresident Senior Fellow at the Atlantic Council. His proposal for a joint U.S.-EU WTO reform agenda is available here.


cnbc--2020-12-17--Congress closes in on a $900 billion Covid relief deal as Americans await aid

`` I 'm cautiously optimistic we 're going to see this $ 900 billion package released today , and this will likely get passed before we go home this weekend , '' Daines told CNBC 's `` Squawk Box '' on Wednesday morning .
The measure would contain a direct payment to Americans in some amount , as well as enhanced federal unemployment insurance , NBC News reported .
In addition , Republican Sen. Steve Daines of Montana told CNBC the deal would have roughly $ 300 billion in small business aid including Paycheck Protection Program loans , money for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for hospitals .
Speaking after McConnell , Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer , D-N.Y. , said `` we are close to an agreement '' but noted `` it 's not a done deal yet . ''
He added that Democrats `` would like to have gone considerably further '' to offer relief and will press for more aid after President-elect Joe Biden takes office on Jan. 20 .
`` We made major headway toward hammering out a targeted pandemic relief package that would be able to pass both chambers with bipartisan majorities , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ R-Ky. , said on the Senate floor Wednesday after a night of talks among the top four congressional leaders .
The developing aid agreement would not include liability protections for businesses or aid to state and local government , CNBC confirmed .
Disagreements over those issues have blocked lawmakers from crafting a year-end rescue package .
Congressional leaders closed in on a $ 900 billion coronavirus relief deal as millions of struggling Americans wait for help .
Congress has rushed to find consensus on legislation to fund the government and rescue a health-care @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
If lawmakers fail to act , the government will shut down on Saturday , 12 million people will lose unemployment benefits the day after Christmas and millions more could face the threat of eviction .
Congress finally neared an emergency relief agreement after Tuesday night negotiations among McConnell , Schumer , House Speaker Nancy Pelosi , D-Calif. , and House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy , R-Calif. Republicans and Democrats had failed for months to make progress toward a bill that could get through a divided Congress .
But they appeared to move @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
After the discussions , McConnell and Schumer said they hoped to have an agreement `` soon . ''
Congress faces a challenge in trying to write sweeping legislation and approve it before Friday .
McConnell told Republicans they should prepare to work through the weekend , according to NBC .
Politico first reported that congressional leaders were near a $ 900 billion deal .
Parts of the bill appear to reflect a bipartisan plan released by rank-and-file lawmakers this week .
However , that proposal did not include any direct payments .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ will contain stimulus checks to individuals which could come out to about $ 600 per person , according to NBC .
In describing to Republicans that the proposal would put more money directly into Americans ' bank accounts , McConnell noted that Trump supports the provision , according to NBC .
He also said including the cash infusions would help GOP Sens .
David Perdue and Kelly Loeffler in their Jan. 5 Georgia runoff races that will determine the Senate majority .
Congressional progressives have urged party leaders to include direct payments in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , I-Vt. , and Josh Hawley , R-Mo.
, have also threatened to delay passage of a bill that does not include a second $ 1,200 deposit to most Americans .
At this stage , the Senate would likely need unanimous support to pass a bill quickly enough to meet the midnight Friday deadline .
It remains to be seen how a potentially smaller stimulus check , or the exclusion of state and local government relief , would affect support of the legislation this week .
As the agreement developed Wednesday , Sanders @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is a much smaller amount than the country needs in this moment of economic desperation . ''
However , he called it `` good news '' that as he understands it now , the bill would send working-families Americans $ 600 per adult and $ 600 per child .
Hawley , meanwhile , told reporters the direct payment provision is `` progress '' but `` not where I would like it to be . ''
Lawmakers can not send help soon enough for millions of Americans .
The economy has taken a hit @ @ @ @ @ @ @ outbreak that has killed more than 300,000 people in the U.S. As millions still have not gained back jobs they lost at the start of the pandemic , long lines have formed at food banks around the country .
Many Americans remain in their homes due to eviction moratoriums but lack the money to pay the rent they owe .
In addition , the distribution of Covid vaccinations — which started this week and gave Americans a glimmer of hope that the crisis could ease in the coming months — will rely on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ many in Washington feel a $ 900 billion plan will not go nearly far enough to lift families merely scraping by during the pandemic .
Biden , like Schumer , has signaled Democrats will push for more relief in the new year .
Speaking Wednesday at an event where he introduced Pete Buttigieg as his selection for Transportation secretary , Biden called the developing proposal `` encouraging . ''
`` But it 's a down payment , an important down payment on what 's going to have to be done beginning at the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , but it 's very important to get it done and I compliment the bipartisan group for getting it done , '' he said .
— CNBC 's Ylan Mui and Christina Wilkie contributed to this report

"I'm cautiously optimistic we're going to see this $900 billion package released today, and this will likely get passed before we go home this weekend," Daines told CNBC's "Squawk Box" on Wednesday morning.
The measure would contain a direct payment to Americans in some amount, as well as enhanced federal unemployment insurance, NBC News reported. In addition, Republican Sen. Steve Daines of Montana told CNBC the deal would have roughly $300 billion in small business aid including Paycheck Protection Program loans, money for Covid-19 vaccine distribution and testing and relief for hospitals.
Speaking after McConnell, Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., said "we are close to an agreement" but noted "it's not a done deal yet." He added that Democrats "would like to have gone considerably further" to offer relief and will press for more aid after President-elect Joe Biden takes office on Jan. 20.
On the Senate floor earlier in the day, he said: "We made major headway toward hammering out a targeted pandemic relief package that would be able to pass both chambers with bipartisan majorities."
"We're still close and we're going to get there," Mitch McConnell , R-Ky. told reporters Wednesday evening.
The developing aid agreement would not include liability protections for businesses or aid to state and local government, CNBC confirmed. Disagreements over those issues have blocked lawmakers from crafting a year-end rescue package.
Congressional leaders closed in on a $900 billion coronavirus relief deal as millions of struggling Americans wait for help.
Congress has rushed to find consensus on legislation to fund the government and rescue a health-care system and economy buckling under the pandemic. If lawmakers fail to act, the government will shut down on Saturday, 12 million people will lose unemployment benefits the day after Christmas and millions more could face the threat of eviction.
Congress finally neared an emergency relief agreement after Tuesday night negotiations among McConnell, Schumer, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., and House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy, R-Calif. Republicans and Democrats had failed for months to make progress toward a bill that could get through a divided Congress. But they appeared to move close to an deal during their talks.
After the discussions, McConnell and Schumer said they hoped to have an agreement "soon."
Congress faces a challenge in trying to write sweeping legislation and approve it before Friday. McConnell told Republicans they should prepare to work through the weekend, according to NBC.
Politico first reported that congressional leaders were near a $900 billion deal. Parts of the bill appear to reflect a bipartisan plan released by rank-and-file lawmakers this week. However, that proposal did not include any direct payments.
The measure being developed by congressional leaders will contain stimulus checks to individuals which could come out to about $600 per person, according to NBC.
In describing to Republicans that the proposal would put more money directly into Americans' bank accounts, McConnell noted that Trump supports the provision, according to NBC. He also said including the cash infusions would help GOP Sens. David Perdue and Kelly Loeffler in their Jan. 5 Georgia runoff races that will determine the Senate majority.
Congressional progressives have urged party leaders to include direct payments in any legislation. Sens. Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., and Josh Hawley, R-Mo., have also threatened to delay passage of a bill that does not include a second $1,200 deposit to most Americans.
At this stage, the Senate would likely need unanimous support to pass a bill quickly enough to meet the midnight Friday deadline. It remains to be seen how a potentially smaller stimulus check, or the exclusion of state and local government relief, would affect support of the legislation this week.
As the agreement developed Wednesday, Sanders told MSNBC that $900 billion "is a much smaller amount than the country needs in this moment of economic desperation." However, he called it "good news" that as he understands it now, the bill would send working-families Americans $600 per adult and $600 per child.
Hawley, meanwhile, told reporters the direct payment provision is "progress" but "not where I would like it to be."
Lawmakers cannot send help soon enough for millions of Americans. The economy has taken a hit in the face of an unchecked coronavirus outbreak that has killed more than 300,000 people in the U.S.
As millions still have not gained back jobs they lost at the start of the pandemic, long lines have formed at food banks around the country. Many Americans remain in their homes due to eviction moratoriums but lack the money to pay the rent they owe.
In addition, the distribution of Covid vaccinations — which started this week and gave Americans a glimmer of hope that the crisis could ease in the coming months — will rely on additional federal funding.
Of course, many in Washington feel a $900 billion plan will not go nearly far enough to lift families merely scraping by during the pandemic. Biden, like Schumer, has signaled Democrats will push for more relief in the new year.
Speaking Wednesday at an event where he introduced Pete Buttigieg as his selection for Transportation secretary, Biden called the developing proposal "encouraging."
"But it's a down payment, an important down payment on what's going to have to be done beginning at the end of January, beginning of February, but it's very important to get it done and I compliment the bipartisan group for getting it done," he said.
— CNBC's Ylan Mui and Christina Wilkie contributed to this report
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cnbc--2020-12-17--Pro-gun groups far outspend gun control activists in tight Georgia Senate runoffs

Republican Senators David Perdue and Kelly Loeffler look on ahead of U.S. President Donald Trump hosting a campaign event with Perdue and Loeffler at Valdosta Regional Airport in Valdosta , Georgia , U.S. , December 5 , 2020 .
With control of the Senate at stake , gun rights groups are pouring millions of dollars in outside spending into the Jan. 5 runoff election in Georgia to support two Republican candidates .
Meanwhile , gun control groups are far behind in supporting the two Democratic candidates monetarily , which could impact their chances of winning as well as President-elect Joe @ @ @ @ @ @ @ legislation in 2021 .
Pro-gun groups such as the National Rifle Association and Gun Owners of America are backing incumbent GOP Sens .
David Perdue and Kelly Loeffler and opposing Democratic challengers Jon Ossoff and Raphael Warnock .
Republicans will hold a 50-48 majority in the Senate come January .
If Republicans keep just one seat in Georgia , the GOP retains control of the Senate .
If Democrats win both races , Vice President-elect Kamala Harris would be the tiebreaking vote , giving the party unified control of the White House and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ NRA 's political arm has spent more than $ 2.2 million in independent expenditures such as billboards , ads , postcards , texting and canvassing that support Perdue and Loeffler or oppose Ossoff and Warnock , according to Federal Election Commission data .
`` The NRA has spent millions with more to come , '' NRA spokeswoman Amy Hunter said in an email .
Other gun rights groups have also invested in outside spending for the Senate runoff races , FEC data show .
Gun Owners of America has spent more than $ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ messages supporting Loeffler and Perdue .
Gun Rights America , the super PAC of the National Association for Gun Rights , has spent more than $ 22,000 on digital advertising and voter contact by phone , mail and text that opposes Warnock and Ossoff .
A PAC called God , Guns & Life has spent more than $ 36,000 on ads supporting the Republican senators .
`` It 's in the best interest of the United States and our Second Amendment rights if [ Ossoff and Warnock ] both lose on January 5th @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of Gun Rights America , said in a statement .
`` I certainly hope their ambitious political careers fade into obscurity and Georgia voters save the U.S .
Senate . ''
`` As a woman and a mother , I value the Second Amendment which allows me to protect myself and my family with firearms , '' said Terry Beatley , president of the God , Guns & Life PAC .
`` This is why the God , Guns & Life PAC supports Loeffler and Perdue — they will protect gun rights .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ respond to CNBC 's request for comment .

Republican Senators David Perdue and Kelly Loeffler look on ahead of U.S. President Donald Trump hosting a campaign event with Perdue and Loeffler at Valdosta Regional Airport in Valdosta, Georgia, U.S., December 5, 2020.
With control of the Senate at stake, gun rights groups are pouring millions of dollars in outside spending into the Jan. 5 runoff election in Georgia to support two Republican candidates.
Meanwhile, gun control groups are far behind in supporting the two Democratic candidates monetarily, which could impact their chances of winning as well as President-elect Joe Biden's hopes of passing gun control legislation in 2021.
Pro-gun groups such as the National Rifle Association and Gun Owners of America are backing incumbent GOP Sens. David Perdue and Kelly Loeffler and opposing Democratic challengers Jon Ossoff and Raphael Warnock.
Republicans will hold a 50-48 majority in the Senate come January. If Republicans keep just one seat in Georgia, the GOP retains control of the Senate. If Democrats win both races, Vice President-elect Kamala Harris would be the tiebreaking vote, giving the party unified control of the White House and Congress.
Since Nov. 15, the NRA's political arm has spent more than $2.2 million in independent expenditures such as billboards, ads, postcards, texting and canvassing that support Perdue and Loeffler or oppose Ossoff and Warnock, according to Federal Election Commission data.
"The NRA has spent millions with more to come," NRA spokeswoman Amy Hunter said in an email.
Other gun rights groups have also invested in outside spending for the Senate runoff races, FEC data show. Gun Owners of America has spent more than $126,000 on ads, emails and text messages supporting Loeffler and Perdue. Gun Rights America, the super PAC of the National Association for Gun Rights, has spent more than $22,000 on digital advertising and voter contact by phone, mail and text that opposes Warnock and Ossoff. A PAC called God, Guns & Life has spent more than $36,000 on ads supporting the Republican senators.
"It's in the best interest of the United States and our Second Amendment rights if [Ossoff and Warnock] both lose on January 5th," Dudley Brown, executive director of Gun Rights America, said in a statement. "I certainly hope their ambitious political careers fade into obscurity and Georgia voters save the U.S. Senate."
"As a woman and a mother, I value the Second Amendment which allows me to protect myself and my family with firearms," said Terry Beatley, president of the God, Guns & Life PAC. "This is why the God, Guns & Life PAC supports Loeffler and Perdue — they will protect gun rights."
Gun Owners of America did not respond to CNBC's request for comment.


cnbc--2020-12-17--Joe Biden warns he will be tough on state sponsors of cyberattacks, as U.S. suffers massive hack

U.S. President-elect Joe Biden speaks to reporters as he announces more nominees and appointees during a news conference at his transition headquarters in Wilmington , Delaware , December 11 , 2020 .
`` We will do that by , among other things , imposing substantial costs on those responsible for such malicious attacks , including in coordination with our allies and partners .
Our adversaries should know that , as President , I will not stand idly by in the face of cyber assaults on our nation . ''
`` A good defense is n't enough ; We need to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ significant cyber attacks in the first place , '' Biden said in a statement issued by his transition team .
WASHINGTON — President-elect Joe Biden on Thursday said the United States under his leadership would join with allies to impose `` substantial costs '' on adversaries who engage in cyberattacks like the massive breach of U.S. government agencies and corporations revealed earlier this month .
The statement is Biden 's first formal response as President-elect to news of the sweeping monthslong cyberattack , which experts say bears the hallmarks of a Russian state-sponsored @ @ @ @ @ @ @ shift to a tougher stance against Russian cyber-warfare tactics than that of the current Trump administration .
Biden noted that his incoming national security team has been briefed on the attacks by career officials at relevant government agencies .
On Wednesday night , the three lead agencies responsible for investigating the attack and protecting the nation from cyber-threats , the FBI , the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency , or CISA , and the Office of the Director of National Intelligence , announced the formation of a joint command to respond to what @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cybersecurity campaign '' against the United States .
`` This is a developing situation , and while we continue to work to understand the full extent of this campaign , we know this compromise has affected networks within the federal government , '' the agencies said in a joint statement .
Both government agencies and private-sector companies targeted in the attack are racing to develop a clearer picture of the full extent of the breach and of the potential damage to U.S. cyber-infrastructure and critical information systems .
The initial investigation suggests the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hidden in a software update from the widely used IT management company SolarWinds .
Russia has denied any involvement in the attack .
In a briefing with congressional staffers this week , CISA officials `` warned that the perpetrator of this attack is highly sophisticated , and that it will take weeks , if not months , to determine the total number of agencies affected by the attack and the extent to which sensitive data and information may have been compromised . ''
The CISA warning was revealed in a letter that Democratic @ @ @ @ @ @ @ top officials at the FBI , CISA and ODNI on Thursday , seeking more details about the attack .
This timeline suggests that it will be Biden , not outgoing President Donald Trump , who is ultimately responsible for determining what retaliatory actions , if any , are warranted against those behind the attacks .
Biden will take office on Jan. 20 .
Trump has yet to personally respond to the latest attack .
White House spokeswoman Kayleigh McEnany said Tuesday that the administration is `` taking a hard look on this .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ , a frequent Trump critic , called the tepid White House response to the attack `` inexcusable . ''
Trump has maintained an unusually warm relationship with Russian President Vladimir Putin during his four years in office , despite the Kremlin 's repeated attempts to undermine U.S. elections and democratic processes and its cyber-warfare campaign .

U.S. President-elect Joe Biden speaks to reporters as he announces more nominees and appointees during a news conference at his transition headquarters in Wilmington, Delaware, December 11, 2020.
"We will do that by, among other things, imposing substantial costs on those responsible for such malicious attacks, including in coordination with our allies and partners. Our adversaries should know that, as President, I will not stand idly by in the face of cyber assaults on our nation."
"A good defense isn't enough; We need to disrupt and deter our adversaries from undertaking significant cyber attacks in the first place," Biden said in a statement issued by his transition team.
WASHINGTON — President-elect Joe Biden on Thursday said the United States under his leadership would join with allies to impose "substantial costs" on adversaries who engage in cyberattacks like the massive breach of U.S. government agencies and corporations revealed earlier this month.
The statement is Biden's first formal response as President-elect to news of the sweeping monthslong cyberattack, which experts say bears the hallmarks of a Russian state-sponsored operation.
It also signals a potential shift to a tougher stance against Russian cyber-warfare tactics than that of the current Trump administration.
Biden noted that his incoming national security team has been briefed on the attacks by career officials at relevant government agencies.
On Wednesday night, the three lead agencies responsible for investigating the attack and protecting the nation from cyber-threats, the FBI, the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency, or CISA, and the Office of the Director of National Intelligence, announced the formation of a joint command to respond to what they called "a significant and ongoing cybersecurity campaign" against the United States.
"This is a developing situation, and while we continue to work to understand the full extent of this campaign, we know this compromise has affected networks within the federal government," the agencies said in a joint statement.
Both government agencies and private-sector companies targeted in the attack are racing to develop a clearer picture of the full extent of the breach and of the potential damage to U.S. cyber-infrastructure and critical information systems.
The initial investigation suggests the breach was carried out via malicious code hidden in a software update from the widely used IT management company SolarWinds. Russia has denied any involvement in the attack.
In a briefing with congressional staffers this week, CISA officials "warned that the perpetrator of this attack is highly sophisticated, and that it will take weeks, if not months, to determine the total number of agencies affected by the attack and the extent to which sensitive data and information may have been compromised."
The CISA warning was revealed in a letter that Democratic committee chairs in the House sent to top officials at the FBI, CISA and ODNI on Thursday, seeking more details about the attack.
This timeline suggests that it will be Biden, not outgoing President Donald Trump, who is ultimately responsible for determining what retaliatory actions, if any, are warranted against those behind the attacks. Biden will take office on Jan. 20.
Trump has yet to personally respond to the latest attack. White House spokeswoman Kayleigh McEnany said Tuesday that the administration is "taking a hard look on this."
But Utah Republican Sen. Mitt Romney, a frequent Trump critic, called the tepid White House response to the attack "inexcusable."
Trump has maintained an unusually warm relationship with Russian President Vladimir Putin during his four years in office, despite the Kremlin's repeated attempts to undermine U.S. elections and democratic processes and its cyber-warfare campaign.


cnbc--2020-12-17--Biden to pick North Carolina environmental regulator to run EPA

Michael Regan listens as North Carolina Gov .
Roy Cooper announces that Regan will lead the Department of Environmental Quality in North Carolina , at the Executive Manson in Raleigh , N.C. Jan. 3 , 2017 .
President-elect Joe Biden will pick Michael Regan , secretary of the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality , to lead the Environmental Protection Agency , a person familiar with the matter told CNBC .
Regan , 44 , has been Biden 's front-runner for the position and if confirmed will be the first Black man to lead the agency .
Regan previously worked @ @ @ @ @ @ @ George W. Bush administrations and worked as a national program manager responsible for designing programs to improve energy efficiency and air quality and reduce air pollution .
Regan later worked at the Environmental Defense Fund , where he led efforts to curb the impacts of climate change and air pollution .
He will play a critical role in supporting Biden 's aggressive plan to battle global warming and transition the U.S. economy away from fossil fuels to clean energy .
Regan is also expected to strongly address environmental racism .
`` Regan has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ advancing clean energy , fighting climate change and addressing coal ash pollution , '' said Abigail Dillen , president of Earthjustice , a nonprofit environmental law organization .
`` As EPA Administrator , Regan will play a key role in solving the climate crisis and protecting the health of all communities . ''
Biden also intends to nominate Rep. Deb Haaland , D-N.M. , to be his Interior secretary .
If confirmed , Haaland would be the first Native American appointed to a Cabinet secretary position .
She would oversee the management and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and natural resources as well as the restoration of land that the Trump administration opened up to drilling and other construction .
Read more from CNBC Environment : Joe Biden 's climate change agenda faces an uncertain future in the Senate Biden will rejoin the Paris Climate Accord .
Here 's what happens next Biden has vowed to reenter the U.S. into the Paris Climate Agreement and bring the country to net-zero emissions by 2050 , though his climate agenda will face immense constraint if Republicans maintain control of the Senate .
Over @ @ @ @ @ @ @ administration has dismantled more than 70 major environmental regulations , with nearly 30 more in progress .
`` Regan will take the EPA 's helm at perhaps the most critical moment in the agency 's history , and he has to do much more than just mop up the toxic mess left by Trump , '' said Kieran Suckling , executive director of the Center for Biological Diversity .
If the GOP does maintain control of the Senate and hinders climate legislation , Biden 's plans will depend on the EPA to implement @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sites and automobiles .
Biden 's administration already plans to implement oil and gas drilling restrictions on public lands , block pipelines across the country and roll back many of Trump 's executive orders on energy .

Michael Regan listens as North Carolina Gov. Roy Cooper announces that Regan will lead the Department of Environmental Quality in North Carolina, at the Executive Manson in Raleigh, N.C. Jan. 3, 2017.
President-elect Joe Biden will pick Michael Regan, secretary of the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality, to lead the Environmental Protection Agency, a person familiar with the matter told CNBC.
Regan, 44, has been Biden's front-runner for the position and if confirmed will be the first Black man to lead the agency.
Regan previously worked at the EPA for the Clinton and George W. Bush administrations and worked as a national program manager responsible for designing programs to improve energy efficiency and air quality and reduce air pollution.
Regan later worked at the Environmental Defense Fund, where he led efforts to curb the impacts of climate change and air pollution.
He will play a critical role in supporting Biden's aggressive plan to battle global warming and transition the U.S. economy away from fossil fuels to clean energy. Regan is also expected to strongly address environmental racism.
"Regan has dedicated his career to environmental work, advancing clean energy, fighting climate change and addressing coal ash pollution," said Abigail Dillen, president of Earthjustice, a nonprofit environmental law organization. "As EPA Administrator, Regan will play a key role in solving the climate crisis and protecting the health of all communities."
Biden also intends to nominate Rep. Deb Haaland, D-N.M., to be his Interior secretary. If confirmed, Haaland would be the first Native American appointed to a Cabinet secretary position. She would oversee the management and conservation of the country's public land and natural resources as well as the restoration of land that the Trump administration opened up to drilling and other construction.
Read more from CNBC Environment:
Joe Biden's climate change agenda faces an uncertain future in the Senate
Biden will rejoin the Paris Climate Accord. Here's what happens next
Biden has vowed to reenter the U.S. into the Paris Climate Agreement and bring the country to net-zero emissions by 2050, though his climate agenda will face immense constraint if Republicans maintain control of the Senate.
Over the last four years, the Trump administration has dismantled more than 70 major environmental regulations, with nearly 30 more in progress.
"Regan will take the EPA's helm at perhaps the most critical moment in the agency's history, and he has to do much more than just mop up the toxic mess left by Trump," said Kieran Suckling, executive director of the Center for Biological Diversity.
If the GOP does maintain control of the Senate and hinders climate legislation, Biden's plans will depend on the EPA to implement regulations that reduce emissions from fossil fuel sites and automobiles.
Biden's administration already plans to implement oil and gas drilling restrictions on public lands, block pipelines across the country and roll back many of Trump's executive orders on energy.


cnbc--2020-12-17--The stock market will face a big test early in 2021 with the Georgia runoffs

Voters line up for the first day of early voting outside of the High Museum polling station on December 14 , 2020 in Atlanta , Georgia .
Georgians are headed to the polls to vote in a run off election for two U.S. Senate seats .
Two incumbent Republican senators are in a tight race to retain their own seats , but more importantly , they are battling to hold onto the Republican majority in the Senate in the Jan. 5 election .
The latest Emerson College poll shows the incumbents with a slight edge each of 3 percentage points @ @ @ @ @ @ @ each party would have 50 seats , leaving Vice President-elect Kamala Harris to break any tie in favor of Democrats .
The Georgia Senate runoff elections are a wild card for markets in the first days of the new year , and it has the potential to reshape not only the national political agenda but also the course of the markets and the economy in the year ahead .
`` It 's a binary event , '' said Ed Mills , Washington policy analyst at Raymond James .
Sen. David Perdue is being @ @ @ @ @ @ @ GOP Sen. Kelly Loeffler is running against Raphael Warnock .
None of the candidates had more than 50 % of the vote in the Nov. 3 vote , so Georgia law requires a runoff election between the two leading candidates for each seat .
`` Anyone who says they have an honest edge understanding how this is going to turn out , I would honestly discount , '' said Mills .
`` I think structurally you would give an edge to Republicans winning at least one of the seats .
With the political @ @ @ @ @ @ @ inaccuracy of polls over the last number of years , with a presidential election being as close as possible in a polarized environment , this easily could be that both Republicans win .
It 's also conceivable that both Democrats win . ''
Markets have reacted favorably to the current split Congress with a Democrat in the White House , trading on the view that the Senate majority would limit Democratic efforts to raise taxes and carry out some of the more progressive policies of the party .
But if Democrats were to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is that Democrats could raise taxes but also pass a much larger stimulus package to help the economy .
Democrats have promised another stimulus package will follow the current $ 900 billion proposal , now under consideration in Congress .
`` I think the markets are going to have the knee jerk reaction of Democrats winning the control of the Senate would be negative for the market , '' said Ethan Harris , head of global economic research at Bank of America .
`` But I think as the fiscal stimulus rolls out @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 're going to be at the high end of the range , I think the market will like that .
Everyone always talks about how the markets do n't like a progressive agenda , but they do like fiscal stimulus . ''
Harris said the economy could grow faster than expected in 2021 if the next stimulus package was larger .
But the U.S. would also face the longer term issue of higher debt .
That could also be a negative for the bond market , which had sold off on the idea @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and higher debt load when there was the potential for a Democratic sweep before the November election .
Rick Rieder , BlackRock chief investment officer of global fixed income , said the election could be one of the bigger influences on markets early in the year .
`` I think it 's one of the things markets will pivot to and focus on in the beginning of the month , '' said Rieder .
`` It 's going to be a big contentious race , and I think it 's going to be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Democrats would have a narrow edge , if they did win , could temper some of the more progressive policies , according to some analysts .
`` Let 's say we get a surprise , Democrats capture both seats ...
It 's difficult to envision moderate Democrats lining up to stack the court and change filibuster rules , pass universal health care and have sweeping tax hikes.
, '' said said Michael Arone , chief investment strategist at State Street Global Advisors .

Voters line up for the first day of early voting outside of the High Museum polling station on December 14, 2020 in Atlanta, Georgia. Georgians are headed to the polls to vote in a run off election for two U.S. Senate seats.
Two incumbent Republican senators are in a tight race to retain their own seats, but more importantly, they are battling to hold onto the Republican majority in the Senate in the Jan. 5 election. The latest Emerson College poll shows the incumbents with a slight edge each of 3 percentage points, but should both Republicans lose, each party would have 50 seats, leaving Vice President-elect Kamala Harris to break any tie in favor of Democrats.
The Georgia Senate runoff elections are a wild card for markets in the first days of the new year, and it has the potential to reshape not only the national political agenda but also the course of the markets and the economy in the year ahead.
"It's a binary event," said Ed Mills, Washington policy analyst at Raymond James.
Sen. David Perdue is being challenged by Democrat Jon Ossoff, while GOP Sen. Kelly Loeffler is running against Raphael Warnock. None of the candidates had more than 50% of the vote in the Nov. 3 vote, so Georgia law requires a runoff election between the two leading candidates for each seat.
"Anyone who says they have an honest edge understanding how this is going to turn out, I would honestly discount," said Mills. "I think structurally you would give an edge to Republicans winning at least one of the seats. With the political environment we're in, with the inaccuracy of polls over the last number of years, with a presidential election being as close as possible in a polarized environment, this easily could be that both Republicans win. It's also conceivable that both Democrats win."
Markets have reacted favorably to the current split Congress with a Democrat in the White House, trading on the view that the Senate majority would limit Democratic efforts to raise taxes and carry out some of the more progressive policies of the party. But if Democrats were to win both Georgia seats, the view is that Democrats could raise taxes but also pass a much larger stimulus package to help the economy.
Democrats have promised another stimulus package will follow the current $900 billion proposal, now under consideration in Congress.
"I think the markets are going to have the knee jerk reaction of Democrats winning the control of the Senate would be negative for the market," said Ethan Harris, head of global economic research at Bank of America. "But I think as the fiscal stimulus rolls out, and it's pretty clear you're going to be at the high end of the range, I think the market will like that. Everyone always talks about how the markets don't like a progressive agenda, but they do like fiscal stimulus."
Harris said the economy could grow faster than expected in 2021 if the next stimulus package was larger. But the U.S. would also face the longer term issue of higher debt. That could also be a negative for the bond market, which had sold off on the idea of a bump up for the economy and higher debt load when there was the potential for a Democratic sweep before the November election.
Rick Rieder, BlackRock chief investment officer of global fixed income, said the election could be one of the bigger influences on markets early in the year.
"I think it's one of the things markets will pivot to and focus on in the beginning of the month," said Rieder. "It's going to be a big contentious race, and I think it's going to be significant."
The fact that the Democrats would have a narrow edge, if they did win, could temper some of the more progressive policies, according to some analysts.
"Let's say we get a surprise, Democrats capture both seats...It's difficult to envision moderate Democrats lining up to stack the court and change filibuster rules, pass universal health care and have sweeping tax hikes," said said Michael Arone, chief investment strategist at State Street Global Advisors.


cnbc--2020-12-17--Pence to head overseas Jan. 6 hours after formally declaring Biden the presidential victor

U.S. Vice President Mike Pence waves to supporters at the end of a rally in Kinston , North Carolina , October 25 , 2020 .
Vice President Mike Pence is scheduled to travel overseas for the first time during the Covid-19 pandemic just hours after presiding over the congressional session in which President-elect Joe Biden will be formally declared the winner of November 's contest against President Donald Trump .
The Indiana Republican will depart the U.S. on Jan. 6 for a trip that will include stops in Bahrain , Israel and Poland , according to a government document obtained @ @ @ @ @ @ @ abroad through Jan. 11 .
The travel schedule , which an administration official said is subject to change , has dual benefits for Pence .
He is expected to use his last trip as vice president to tout the administration 's foreign policy achievements , including the normalization of relations between Israel and a number of Gulf states including Bahrain .
It will also allow Pence , rumored to be harboring his own presidential ambitions , to get out of Washington after performing the awkward job of announcing his and Trump 's defeat @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The trip kicks off on the same day that Congress will meet for a joint session to formally count the electoral votes for president and vice president .
Under federal law , the president of the Senate — a role held by the vice president — is charged with presenting the electoral votes and announcing the winner .
The job is a politically uncomfortable one for Pence , given that Trump has bucked precedent by refusing to concede defeat .
Biden won 306 electoral votes , 36 more than the 270 needed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ votes .
The Electoral College formally voted on Monday .
Pence has been in lockstep with Trump for the four years of his administration , remaining a loyal ally in a White House that was plagued with unusually high turnover and frequent infighting .
But the vice president has largely remained in the background as Trump has attempted to reverse the results of the Nov. 3 election .
Even so , Pence has been supportive of the president 's baseless claims of election fraud and has not publicly acknowledged Biden 's victory or @ @ @ @ @ @

U.S. Vice President Mike Pence waves to supporters at the end of a rally in Kinston, North Carolina, October 25, 2020.
Vice President Mike Pence is scheduled to travel overseas for the first time during the Covid-19 pandemic just hours after presiding over the congressional session in which President-elect Joe Biden will be formally declared the winner of November's contest against President Donald Trump.
The Indiana Republican will depart the U.S. on Jan. 6 for a trip that will include stops in Bahrain, Israel and Poland, according to a government document obtained by NBC News. Pence will remain abroad through Jan. 11.
The travel schedule, which an administration official said is subject to change, has dual benefits for Pence.
He is expected to use his last trip as vice president to tout the administration's foreign policy achievements, including the normalization of relations between Israel and a number of Gulf states including Bahrain.
It will also allow Pence, rumored to be harboring his own presidential ambitions, to get out of Washington after performing the awkward job of announcing his and Trump's defeat to Biden and Vice President-elect Kamala Harris.
The trip kicks off on the same day that Congress will meet for a joint session to formally count the electoral votes for president and vice president. Under federal law, the president of the Senate — a role held by the vice president — is charged with presenting the electoral votes and announcing the winner.
The job is a politically uncomfortable one for Pence, given that Trump has bucked precedent by refusing to concede defeat. Biden won 306 electoral votes, 36 more than the 270 needed for victory. Trump won 232 electoral votes. The Electoral College formally voted on Monday.
Pence has been in lockstep with Trump for the four years of his administration, remaining a loyal ally in a White House that was plagued with unusually high turnover and frequent infighting. But the vice president has largely remained in the background as Trump has attempted to reverse the results of the Nov. 3 election. Even so, Pence has been supportive of the president's baseless claims of election fraud and has not publicly acknowledged Biden's victory or congratulated the former vice president.


cnbc--2020-12-17--Trump says he will veto $740 billion defense bill, breaking with Republican-led Senate

U.S. President Donald Trump addresses the daily coronavirus response briefing flanked by National Security Advisor Robert O'Brien , U.S. Attorney General Bill Barr and U.S. Defense Secretary Mark Esper at the White House in Washington , U.S. , April 1 , 2020 .
WASHINGTON – President Donald Trump said Thursday he will reject the sweeping defense bill that authorizes a topline of $ 740 billion in spending and outlines Pentagon policy .
`` I will Veto the Defense Bill , which will make China very unhappy .
They love it , '' Trump tweeted .
`` Must have Section 230 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ allow for removal of military from far away , and very unappreciative , lands .
Thank you ! ''
The Republican-led Senate overwhelmingly passed the National Defense Authorization Act on Friday .
The more than 70 members in support of the must-pass bill is more than the two-thirds majority that would be needed to defeat Trump 's promised veto .
Congress must now vote again to override Trump .
The offices of House Speaker Nancy Pelosi , D-Calif. , and Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell , R-Ky. , did not immediately respond to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ president 's tweet .
The bill , which typically passes with strong bipartisan support and veto-proof majorities , authorizes a topline of $ 740 billion in spending and outlines Pentagon policy .
It has been passed for nearly six consecutive decades .

U.S. President Donald Trump addresses the daily coronavirus response briefing flanked by National Security Advisor Robert O'Brien, U.S. Attorney General Bill Barr and U.S. Defense Secretary Mark Esper at the White House in Washington, U.S., April 1, 2020.
WASHINGTON – President Donald Trump said Thursday he will reject the sweeping defense bill that authorizes a topline of $740 billion in spending and outlines Pentagon policy.
"I will Veto the Defense Bill, which will make China very unhappy. They love it," Trump tweeted. "Must have Section 230 termination, protect our National Monuments and allow for removal of military from far away, and very unappreciative, lands. Thank you!"
The Republican-led Senate overwhelmingly passed the National Defense Authorization Act on Friday. The more than 70 members in support of the must-pass bill is more than the two-thirds majority that would be needed to defeat Trump's promised veto.
Congress must now vote again to override Trump.
The offices of House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., and Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., did not immediately respond to CNBC's requests for comment on the president's tweet.
The bill, which typically passes with strong bipartisan support and veto-proof majorities, authorizes a topline of $740 billion in spending and outlines Pentagon policy. It has been passed for nearly six consecutive decades.


cnbc--2020-12-17--Biden warns that his Covid aid depends on Georgia Senate victories for Warnock, Ossoff

President-elect Joe Biden acknowledges the crowd as he attends a `` Get Ready to Vote Rally '' with Georgia 's U.S .
Senator Democratic nominees Reverend Raphael Warnock and Jon Ossoff on December 15 , 2020 in Atlanta , Georgia .
`` There are folks in Congress threatening to do everything in their power to block our efforts , '' Biden said in a straight-to-camera appeal for Georgia voters to elect Democratic Senate hopefuls Raphael Warnock and Jon Ossoff .
President-elect Joe Biden warned in a new ad that his plan to beat the coronavirus pandemic hinges on two Democrats @ @ @ @ @ @ @ which party controls the Senate .
The one-minute ad , produced by the Ossoff and Warnock campaigns , debuted Thursday , less than three weeks before the Jan. 5 runoff elections in the Peach State .
The election will determine which party will take control of the Senate .
The ad , Biden 's first in support of Warnock and Ossoff , also came days after early voting kicked off in the state .
Georgia Sens .
Kelly Loeffler and David Perdue need to hold their seats for the GOP to maintain its @ @ @ @ @ @ @ races have become the nation 's key political battleground following Biden 's victory over President Donald Trump .
If Ossoff and Warnock win , each party will have 50 seats and Vice President Kamala Harris will be the tie breaker .
Biden campaigned in person in Georgia this week , while Trump traveled there earlier in December to host a rally for Loeffler and Perdue , who face Warnock and Ossoff , respectively .
Vice President Mike Pence is set to fly to the state on Thursday to deliver remarks .
Biden has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ his administration will tackle the coronavirus pandemic when he takes office on Jan. 20 .
But he warned in the ad that without a Democratic majority in the Senate , his Day 1 plan wo n't happen .
`` Georgia , I know things are tough right now .
But I want you to know , help is on the way , '' Biden said in the ad .
`` My administration is preparing to beat Covid-19 , and bring economic relief to the American people .
On Day 1 as your president @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Covid relief package that fully funds the public health response needed , led by Georgia 's own CDC .
It will ensure testing and vaccination for every American , and will get small businesses the assistance they need right now , '' he said .
`` Let me be clear : I need Raphael Warnock and Jon Ossoff in the United States Senate to get this done , '' Biden warned .
`` There are folks in Congress threatening to do everything in their power to block our efforts . ''
`` We @ @ @ @ @ @ @ vote for Jon Ossoff as well as Raphael Warnock .
We need them in the Senate .
God bless America and God bless our troops , '' Biden said .
The all-important races come in the midst of the most dire phase of the pandemic yet experienced in the United States .
As health officials had warned , a record surge of cases arrived with the onset of winter , leading to new highs in hospitalizations .
On Monday , the U.S surpassed the tragic milestone of 300,000 deaths from the virus .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ on Capitol Hill to negotiate an additional Covid relief package .
Partisan feuding over the terms of a deal stalled the delivery of much-needed aid for Americans whose livelihoods and businesses have been devastated by the virus and the harsh restrictions imposed by state leaders aiming to slow the spread of illness .
Lawmakers have signaled this week that they are finally nearing an agreement .
Trump , who is refusing to concede to Biden and is falsely claiming he won reelection , has largely ignored the shocking rise in deaths and cases @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rollout of vaccines , including Pfizer 's , which was recently approved for emergency use by the Food and Drug Administration .
But the vaccines , despite their record development time , will not instantly free the U.S. from Covid 's grip .
White House coronavirus advisor Dr. Anthony Fauci , who will be joining the Biden administration next month , said Wednesday that the nation could return to some semblance of normality by mid-fall of 2021 if enough people are vaccinated .
Georgia , like other states , is experiencing its highest @ @ @ @ @ @ @ focused on the pandemic when he traveled to the state on Tuesday — the president-elect 's first time campaigning since defeating Trump — to stump for Warnock and Ossoff .
`` We need funding for testing and vaccine distribution .
We need to get money into people 's pockets right away , '' Biden said at a drive-in rally in Atlanta .
`` We can get so much done that would make the lives of the people of Georgia and the country so much better , and we need senators who are willing @ @ @ @ @

President-elect Joe Biden acknowledges the crowd as he attends a "Get Ready to Vote Rally" with Georgia's U.S. Senator Democratic nominees Reverend Raphael Warnock and Jon Ossoff on December 15, 2020 in Atlanta, Georgia.
"There are folks in Congress threatening to do everything in their power to block our efforts," Biden said in a straight-to-camera appeal for Georgia voters to elect Democratic Senate hopefuls Raphael Warnock and Jon Ossoff.
President-elect Joe Biden warned in a new ad that his plan to beat the coronavirus pandemic hinges on two Democrats winning a Georgia runoff that will determine which party controls the Senate.
The one-minute ad, produced by the Ossoff and Warnock campaigns, debuted Thursday, less than three weeks before the Jan. 5 runoff elections in the Peach State. The election will determine which party will take control of the Senate. The ad, Biden's first in support of Warnock and Ossoff, also came days after early voting kicked off in the state.
Georgia Sens. Kelly Loeffler and David Perdue need to hold their seats for the GOP to maintain its edge in the chamber. The tight races have become the nation's key political battleground following Biden's victory over President Donald Trump.
If Ossoff and Warnock win, each party will have 50 seats and Vice President Kamala Harris will be the tie breaker.
Biden campaigned in person in Georgia this week, while Trump traveled there earlier in December to host a rally for Loeffler and Perdue, who face Warnock and Ossoff, respectively. Vice President Mike Pence is set to fly to the state on Thursday to deliver remarks.
Biden has put forward a detailed outline for how his administration will tackle the coronavirus pandemic when he takes office on Jan. 20. But he warned in the ad that without a Democratic majority in the Senate, his Day 1 plan won't happen.
"Georgia, I know things are tough right now. But I want you to know, help is on the way," Biden said in the ad.
"My administration is preparing to beat Covid-19, and bring economic relief to the American people. On Day 1 as your president, I'm prepared to sign a Covid relief package that fully funds the public health response needed, led by Georgia's own CDC. It will ensure testing and vaccination for every American, and will get small businesses the assistance they need right now," he said.
"Let me be clear: I need Raphael Warnock and Jon Ossoff in the United States Senate to get this done," Biden warned. "There are folks in Congress threatening to do everything in their power to block our efforts."
"We need you to get out there and vote for Jon Ossoff as well as Raphael Warnock. We need them in the Senate. God bless America and God bless our troops," Biden said.
The all-important races come in the midst of the most dire phase of the pandemic yet experienced in the United States.
As health officials had warned, a record surge of cases arrived with the onset of winter, leading to new highs in hospitalizations. On Monday, the U.S surpassed the tragic milestone of 300,000 deaths from the virus. The worsening crisis follows months of failure on Capitol Hill to negotiate an additional Covid relief package.
Partisan feuding over the terms of a deal stalled the delivery of much-needed aid for Americans whose livelihoods and businesses have been devastated by the virus and the harsh restrictions imposed by state leaders aiming to slow the spread of illness. Lawmakers have signaled this week that they are finally nearing an agreement.
Trump, who is refusing to concede to Biden and is falsely claiming he won reelection, has largely ignored the shocking rise in deaths and cases. Rather, Trump is emphasizing the rollout of vaccines, including Pfizer's, which was recently approved for emergency use by the Food and Drug Administration.
But the vaccines, despite their record development time, will not instantly free the U.S. from Covid's grip. White House coronavirus advisor Dr. Anthony Fauci, who will be joining the Biden administration next month, said Wednesday that the nation could return to some semblance of normality by mid-fall of 2021 if enough people are vaccinated.
Georgia, like other states, is experiencing its highest Covid case numbers to date. Biden focused on the pandemic when he traveled to the state on Tuesday — the president-elect's first time campaigning since defeating Trump — to stump for Warnock and Ossoff.
"We need funding for testing and vaccine distribution. We need to get money into people's pockets right away," Biden said at a drive-in rally in Atlanta.
"We can get so much done that would make the lives of the people of Georgia and the country so much better, and we need senators who are willing to do it."


cnbc--2020-12-17--Joe Biden selects Pete Buttigieg as Transportation secretary

Democratic U.S. 2020 election presidential candidates Mayor Pete Buttigieg , former Vice President Joe Biden pose during the second night of the first Democratic presidential candidates debate in Miami , Florida , June 27 , 2019 .
President-elect Joe Biden said Tuesday he has chosen former South Bend , Indiana , Mayor Pete Buttigieg to be his Transportation secretary .
`` South Bend was once called one of America 's 'dying cities . '
Today , it 's a hub of innovation and job growth .
Mayor Pete Buttigieg led that resurgence , and has been nominated by the President-elect @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , '' the Biden-Harris Presidential Transition team said on Twitter .
Buttigieg , who was an opponent of Biden 's during the 2020 primary elections , is expected to play a central role in the incoming president 's plans to restore and repair roads and bridges throughout the U.S. '' This is a moment of tremendous opportunity—to create jobs , meet the climate challenge , and enhance equity for all , '' Buttigieg tweeted .
`` I 'm honored that the President-elect has asked me to serve our nation as Secretary of Transportation @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said smart , climate-friendly infrastructure projects can help the U.S. emerge from the coronavirus recession stronger and help support thousands of jobs .
Buttigieg , 38 , quickly became a household name during the 2020 elections as a younger , yet still moderate option for Democrats hoping to prevent a second term for President Donald Trump .
Though Buttigieg dropped out of the 2020 race in March despite winning in the Iowa caucuses , the openly gay politician soon thereafter endorsed Biden for president .
The president-elect has often offered high praise for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of Democrats and was widely expected to name him to a high-level administration post .
`` Mayor Pete Buttigieg is a patriot and a problem-solver who speaks to the best of who we are as a nation .
I am nominating him for Secretary of Transportation because this position stands at the nexus of so many of the interlocking challenges and opportunities ahead of us , '' Biden said in a statement .
`` Jobs , infrastructure , equity , and climate all come together at the DOT , the site of some @ @ @ @ @ @ @ back better .
I trust Mayor Pete to lead this work with focus , decency , and a bold vision — he will bring people together to get big things done . ''
A business ally of Biden 's told CNBC that Buttigieg could have a big impact on the administration 's infrastructure proposal since he 's not connected to the stagnant talks in Congress about how to pay for such a plan .
`` He will not be inhibited by what has always been the limitations on Capitol Hill , '' the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ spoken with him yet , but I am positive if it happens . ''
This person declined to be named in order to speak freely .
Among its many proposals , the Biden campaign floated a $ 2 trillion plan that , married to his climate goals , would `` build a new American infrastructure and clean energy economy . ''
The expansive plan includes more general investments for roads and bridges , and more specific proposals like providing every American city with 100,000 or more residents with high-quality , zero-emissions public transportation @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , is perhaps best known in politics for his two terms as the mayor of South Bend from 2012 to 2020 .
Under his tenure , the city embarked on extensive urban development and economic revitalization projects similar to those championed by Biden in promises to revitalize American infrastructure .
Critics of his time as mayor say his revitalization plans for South Bend did not necessarily benefit racial minorities as much as hoped .
For example , many were optimistic about his plans to knock down or repair nearly all of the city @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that experts thought beyond possible .
The program concentrated on the city 's lowest-income black and Hispanic neighborhoods , where homes were in disrepair .
And while many said they were happy to see dilapidated structures removed , they lamented a lack of planning on what would fill the space .

Democratic U.S. 2020 election presidential candidates Mayor Pete Buttigieg, former Vice President Joe Biden pose during the second night of the first Democratic presidential candidates debate in Miami, Florida, June 27, 2019.
President-elect Joe Biden said Tuesday he has chosen former South Bend, Indiana, Mayor Pete Buttigieg to be his Transportation secretary.
"South Bend was once called one of America's 'dying cities.' Today, it's a hub of innovation and job growth. Mayor Pete Buttigieg led that resurgence, and has been nominated by the President-elect to continue that work as Transportation Secretary," the Biden-Harris Presidential Transition team said on Twitter.
Buttigieg, who was an opponent of Biden's during the 2020 primary elections, is expected to play a central role in the incoming president's plans to restore and repair roads and bridges throughout the U.S.
"This is a moment of tremendous opportunity—to create jobs, meet the climate challenge, and enhance equity for all," Buttigieg tweeted. "I'm honored that the President-elect has asked me to serve our nation as Secretary of Transportation."
The president-elect has for months said smart, climate-friendly infrastructure projects can help the U.S. emerge from the coronavirus recession stronger and help support thousands of jobs.
Buttigieg, 38, quickly became a household name during the 2020 elections as a younger, yet still moderate option for Democrats hoping to prevent a second term for President Donald Trump.
Though Buttigieg dropped out of the 2020 race in March despite winning in the Iowa caucuses, the openly gay politician soon thereafter endorsed Biden for president.
The president-elect has often offered high praise for Buttigieg as emblematic of the next generation of Democrats and was widely expected to name him to a high-level administration post.
"Mayor Pete Buttigieg is a patriot and a problem-solver who speaks to the best of who we are as a nation. I am nominating him for Secretary of Transportation because this position stands at the nexus of so many of the interlocking challenges and opportunities ahead of us," Biden said in a statement. "Jobs, infrastructure, equity, and climate all come together at the DOT, the site of some of our most ambitious plans to build back better. I trust Mayor Pete to lead this work with focus, decency, and a bold vision — he will bring people together to get big things done."
A business ally of Biden's told CNBC that Buttigieg could have a big impact on the administration's infrastructure proposal since he's not connected to the stagnant talks in Congress about how to pay for such a plan.
"He will not be inhibited by what has always been the limitations on Capitol Hill," the person said. I "haven't spoken with him yet, but I am positive if it happens."
This person declined to be named in order to speak freely.
Among its many proposals, the Biden campaign floated a $2 trillion plan that, married to his climate goals, would "build a new American infrastructure and clean energy economy."
The expansive plan includes more general investments for roads and bridges, and more specific proposals like providing every American city with 100,000 or more residents with high-quality, zero-emissions public transportation options.
Buttigieg, a military veteran, is perhaps best known in politics for his two terms as the mayor of South Bend from 2012 to 2020.
Under his tenure, the city embarked on extensive urban development and economic revitalization projects similar to those championed by Biden in promises to revitalize American infrastructure.
Critics of his time as mayor say his revitalization plans for South Bend did not necessarily benefit racial minorities as much as hoped.
For example, many were optimistic about his plans to knock down or repair nearly all of the city's vacant homes, a demanding initiative that experts thought beyond possible. The program concentrated on the city's lowest-income black and Hispanic neighborhoods, where homes were in disrepair.
And while many said they were happy to see dilapidated structures removed, they lamented a lack of planning on what would fill the space.


cnbc--2020-12-17--Michigan GOP lawmaker loses committee posts after not ruling out violence during Electoral College v

Michigan GOP lawmaker loses committee posts after not ruling out violence during Electoral College vote

A man stands in front of the Michigan State Capitol Building holding an American flag with a `` Stop the Steal '' sign taped to it .
A Republican state representative in Michigan was stripped of his committee assignments by GOP leaders Monday after refusing to rule out that violence would occur in the capital of Lansing as members of the Electoral College met to confirm the state 's choice of Joe Biden as president of the United States .
State Rep. Gary Eisen , who last year tweeted a photo of a semi-automatic handgun and ammunition after Michigan 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not threaten to commit violence during the radio interview that led to his disciplining by the Michigan House speaker But Eisen twice hinted that violence could occur related to a `` Hail Mary '' effort by him and other GOP lawmakers to block the Electoral College 's electors selection of Biden , a Democrat , over President Donald Trump , a Republican .
His interviewer on WPHM-AM said he was `` concerned about violence today in Lansing , '' given Eisen 's vague description of what Republicans planned to do .
The interviewer @ @ @ @ @ @ @ assure me that this is going to be a safe day in Lansing , nobody 's going to get hurt ? ''
The lawmaker paused and then said , `` No . ''
`` I do n't know , because what we 're doing today is uncharted , it has n't been done , and it 's not me doing it , it 's the Michigan House , it 's the Michigan party ...
I 'm just here to witness , '' said Eisen , who represents St. Clair Township .
Eisen later @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the confusion over my comments , '' and said he wanted to attend the event he was talking about `` to help prevent violence , not promote it . ''
But House Speaker Lee Chatfield , a Republican , said : `` We as elected officials must be clear that violence has no place in our democratic process .
We must be held to a higher standard . ''
`` Because of that , Rep. Eisen has been removed from his committee assignments for the rest of the term , '' Chatfield said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Monday to appoint an alternate slate of electors for Trump , as the president 's allies have suggested .
`` I fought hard for President Trump .
Nobody wanted him to win more than me , '' Chatfield said .
`` I think he 's done an incredible job .
But I love our republic , too .
I ca n't fathom risking our norms , traditions and institutions to pass a resolution retroactively changing the electors for Trump , simply because some think there may have been enough widespread fraud to give @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said .
`` That 's unprecedented for good reason .
And that 's why there is not enough support in the House to cast a new slate of electors .
I fear we 'd lose our country forever .
This truly would bring mutually assured destruction for every future election in regards to the Electoral College .
And I ca n't stand for that .
I wo n't . ''
Eisen 's controversial remarks came as the Michigan legislative buildings were closed Monday because of security concerns .
And they came two months @ @ @ @ @ @ @ criminal charges accusing them of plotting to kidnap Michigan Gov .
Gretchen Whitmer before the presidential election .
Authorities have said that the FBI heard the men and others talking about attacking the state capitol .
In April , thousands of demonstrators , some of whom were armed , protested at the state capitol over Whitmer 's state-at-home orders in response to the coronavirus pandemic .
Last year , when Whitmer proposed a 45-cent tax on gasoline , Eisen tweeted a photo of a handgun , ammunition and a magazine for that ammo @ @ @ @ @ @ @ only number with a 4 and 5 in it , that I will support is a 1911A1 .45 ACP Pistol . ''
`` We have been consistent in our position on issues of violence and intimidation in politics — it is never appropriate and never acceptable , '' Chatfield said in his statement Monday on Eisen .
`` That is true of threats or suggestions of violence against Gov .
Whitmer , Secretary ( of State Jocelyn ) Benson , Rep. ( Cynthia ) Johnson and others on the Oversight Committee , Republicans @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Electoral College . ''
The Electoral College is set today to give Biden 306 votes , 36 more than he needs to win the presidency .
Trump and many of his allies , including GOP members of statehouses and Congress , have refused to admit Biden won the election , and have repeatedly made baseless claims that the president was swindled out of victory by widespread ballot fraud .
No lawsuit filed by Trump 's campaign or its allies has succeeded in invalidating any ballot on a claim of fraud .
Trump 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the U.S. Congress could void Biden 's victory .
Eisen , who had supported a failed Supreme Court challenge filed by Texas to block Michigan and three other states from certifying Biden 's popular vote wins in those states , said during his interview that there are legal methods open to the state House to deny Biden a win in Michigan .
He argued that there are legitimate questions about the mishandling of ballots and possible fraud during the election which justified delaying the selection of Biden as officials investigated those issues .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ GOP House members were planned on taking action , possibly on Monday , to thwart Biden 's selection .
`` This could be a historic event , '' Eisen said , without elaborating .
`` This is an option given to the House and to the legislators , given by the United States Constitution .
It 's not like we 're making it up .
`` This is a power given to us by the United States Constitution that if we think there is mishandling [ of ballots ] , some fraud , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ up-and-up , we can implement these powers . ''
Eisen said that he was asked to `` escort certain members in and out of the capitol '' Monday , but that plan had a `` monkey wrench '' thrown into it when a `` bomb threat '' to Lansing was called in from Wisconsin .
`` How convenient , '' Eisen said , casting doubt on the legitimacy of that threat , which he claimed led officials to close the state capitol building .
`` Whether it was true or not , we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ security at the capitol can not legally bar him from entry when he was on official business .
But , `` if they do , we are going to move to another location '' to attempt the Hail Mary effort he had said was being planned , Eisen said .
`` It 'll be all over the news later , '' he added .
When his interviewer told Eisen that sounded dangerous , the lawmaker replied , `` It is dangerous . ''
`` I was warned there was going to be violence @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , '' Eisen added .
`` We were warned there could be outbreaks of violence ... in Lansing , and they 're suggesting for everybody to stay home , and that 's not how we work in America . ''
Eisen later Monday issued a statement that said , `` I regret the confusion over my comments this morning , and I want to assure everyone that those of us who are supporting an alternative slate of electors intend to do so peacefully and legally . ''
`` I wanted to attend today @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not promote it .
I no longer plan to go to the Capitol with that group today , '' said Eisen , according to WILX-10 TV in Michigan .
`` `` My comments were meant to reflect that while our group intends to be peaceful , I did not feel I could speak for other groups , '' Eisen said .
`` Apparently some people are making credible threats of violence today , and I am glad local law enforcement is on the scene preventing any such action and keeping everyone safe .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ at the Capitol today to request to be seated as electors , intends to participate in our democracy peacefully .
We are all concerned about safety today and hopeful for a safe , legal and clear process at the Capitol . ''

A man stands in front of the Michigan State Capitol Building holding an American flag with a "Stop the Steal" sign taped to it.
A Republican state representative in Michigan was stripped of his committee assignments by GOP leaders Monday after refusing to rule out that violence would occur in the capital of Lansing as members of the Electoral College met to confirm the state's choice of Joe Biden as president of the United States.
State Rep. Gary Eisen, who last year tweeted a photo of a semi-automatic handgun and ammunition after Michigan's governor proposed a gas tax, did not threaten to commit violence during the radio interview that led to his disciplining by the Michigan House speaker
But Eisen twice hinted that violence could occur related to a "Hail Mary" effort by him and other GOP lawmakers to block the Electoral College's electors selection of Biden, a Democrat, over President Donald Trump, a Republican.
His interviewer on WPHM-AM said he was "concerned about violence today in Lansing," given Eisen's vague description of what Republicans planned to do.
The interviewer then asked Eisen, "Can you assure me that this is going to be a safe day in Lansing, nobody's going to get hurt?"
The lawmaker paused and then said, "No."
"I don't know, because what we're doing today is uncharted, it hasn't been done, and it's not me doing it, it's the Michigan House, it's the Michigan party ... I'm just here to witness," said Eisen, who represents St. Clair Township.
Eisen later issued a statement saying he regretted "the confusion over my comments," and said he wanted to attend the event he was talking about "to help prevent violence, not promote it."
But House Speaker Lee Chatfield, a Republican, said: "We as elected officials must be clear that violence has no place in our democratic process. We must be held to a higher standard."
"Because of that, Rep. Eisen has been removed from his committee assignments for the rest of the term," Chatfield said in a statement.
Chatfield also refused Monday to appoint an alternate slate of electors for Trump, as the president's allies have suggested.
"I fought hard for President Trump. Nobody wanted him to win more than me," Chatfield said.
"I think he's done an incredible job. But I love our republic, too. I can't fathom risking our norms, traditions and institutions to pass a resolution retroactively changing the electors for Trump, simply because some think there may have been enough widespread fraud to give him the win," the speaker said.
"That's unprecedented for good reason. And that's why there is not enough support in the House to cast a new slate of electors. I fear we'd lose our country forever. This truly would bring mutually assured destruction for every future election in regards to the Electoral College. And I can't stand for that. I won't."
Eisen's controversial remarks came as the Michigan legislative buildings were closed Monday because of security concerns.
And they came two months after six men were arrested on federal criminal charges accusing them of plotting to kidnap Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer before the presidential election. Authorities have said that the FBI heard the men and others talking about attacking the state capitol.
In April, thousands of demonstrators, some of whom were armed, protested at the state capitol over Whitmer's state-at-home orders in response to the coronavirus pandemic.
Last year, when Whitmer proposed a 45-cent tax on gasoline, Eisen tweeted a photo of a handgun, ammunition and a magazine for that ammo, with the message, "The only number with a 4 and 5 in it, that I will support is a 1911A1 .45 ACP Pistol."
"We have been consistent in our position on issues of violence and intimidation in politics — it is never appropriate and never acceptable," Chatfield said in his statement Monday on Eisen.
"That is true of threats or suggestions of violence against Gov. Whitmer, Secretary (of State Jocelyn) Benson, Rep. (Cynthia) Johnson and others on the Oversight Committee, Republicans, Democrats, and members of the Electoral College."
The Electoral College is set today to give Biden 306 votes, 36 more than he needs to win the presidency.
Trump and many of his allies, including GOP members of statehouses and Congress, have refused to admit Biden won the election, and have repeatedly made baseless claims that the president was swindled out of victory by widespread ballot fraud. No lawsuit filed by Trump's campaign or its allies has succeeded in invalidating any ballot on a claim of fraud.
Trump's team now suggests that state houses or the U.S. Congress could void Biden's victory.
Eisen, who had supported a failed Supreme Court challenge filed by Texas to block Michigan and three other states from certifying Biden's popular vote wins in those states, said during his interview that there are legal methods open to the state House to deny Biden a win in Michigan.
He argued that there are legitimate questions about the mishandling of ballots and possible fraud during the election which justified delaying the selection of Biden as officials investigated those issues.
And he said that he and other GOP House members were planned on taking action, possibly on Monday, to thwart Biden's selection.
"This could be a historic event," Eisen said, without elaborating.
"This is an option given to the House and to the legislators, given by the United States Constitution. It's not like we're making it up.
"This is a power given to us by the United States Constitution that if we think there is mishandling [of ballots], some fraud, if this election is not on the up-and-up, we can implement these powers."
Eisen said that he was asked to "escort certain members in and out of the capitol" Monday, but that plan had a "monkey wrench" thrown into it when a "bomb threat" to Lansing was called in from Wisconsin.
"How convenient," Eisen said, casting doubt on the legitimacy of that threat, which he claimed led officials to close the state capitol building. "Whether it was true or not, we don't know."
Eisen said security at the capitol cannot legally bar him from entry when he was on official business.
But, "if they do, we are going to move to another location" to attempt the Hail Mary effort he had said was being planned, Eisen said.
"It'll be all over the news later," he added.
When his interviewer told Eisen that sounded dangerous, the lawmaker replied, "It is dangerous."
"I was warned there was going to be violence, there was going to be protests," Eisen added.
"We were warned there could be outbreaks of violence ... in Lansing, and they're suggesting for everybody to stay home, and that's not how we work in America."
Eisen later Monday issued a statement that said, "I regret the confusion over my comments this morning, and I want to assure everyone that those of us who are supporting an alternative slate of electors intend to do so peacefully and legally."
"I wanted to attend today's event to help prevent violence, not promote it. I no longer plan to go to the Capitol with that group today," said Eisen, according to WILX-10 TV in Michigan.
""My comments were meant to reflect that while our group intends to be peaceful, I did not feel I could speak for other groups," Eisen said.
"Apparently some people are making credible threats of violence today, and I am glad local law enforcement is on the scene preventing any such action and keeping everyone safe. Our group, who will also be at the Capitol today to request to be seated as electors, intends to participate in our democracy peacefully. We are all concerned about safety today and hopeful for a safe, legal and clear process at the Capitol."


cnbc--2020-12-19--Congress passes bill to prevent government shutdown for two days, sends it to Trump

US Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi leaves a meeting on Capitol Hill in Washington , DC on December 18 , 2020 .
Congress voted Friday to prevent a government shutdown for two days , sending a temporary funding measure to President Donald Trump .
Federal funding will lapse at 12:01 a.m .
ET on Saturday if Washington fails to approve a spending bill .
The stopgap measure would keep the government running through Sunday until 12:01 a.m .
ET Monday morning while congressional leaders try to finalize a full-year funding and coronavirus relief package .
Trump will have hours @ @ @ @ @ @ @ expires .
Once Trump approves the measure , Congress will once again find itself on a tight deadline .
The House will meet again on Sunday at noon ET and will not vote earlier than 1 p.m .
The Senate will return at 11 a.m .
ET Saturday and will likely address nominations .
Senators including independent Bernie Sanders of Vermont and Republican Josh Hawley of Missouri had warned they could delay approval of a spending bill as they lobby for leadership to include a $ 1,200 direct payment in a pandemic aid @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the warning .
Before the Senate unanimously passed the spending bill , Sanders said he would `` object to any attempt '' by the chamber to pass a full-year spending plan without also approving a pandemic relief package that includes `` substantial direct payments . ''
Hawley earlier tweeted that he would not block the legislation after top Republicans assured him a final relief deal would include `` direct assistance to working people . ''
Lawmakers are expected to include $ 600 payments , down from the $ 1,200 checks approved as part @ @ @ @ @ @ @

U.S. President Donald Trump waves as he walks on the South Lawn of the White House upon his return to Washington from Camp David, November 29, 2020.
President Donald Trump signed a two-day government funding bill into law Friday night as Congress tries to buy time to strike a spending and coronavirus relief deal.
The president inked the legislation to keep the government running about an hour-and-a-half before a midnight deadline to pass spending legislation. The stopgap measure would fund federal operations through Sunday until 12:01 a.m. ET Monday morning while congressional leaders try to finalize a full-year funding and coronavirus relief package.
Even after lawmakers avoided a shutdown, Congress again finds itself on a tight deadline. The House will meet again on Sunday at noon ET and will not vote earlier than 1 p.m. The Senate will return at 11 a.m. ET Saturday and will likely address nominations.
Senators including independent Bernie Sanders of Vermont and Republican Josh Hawley of Missouri had warned they could delay approval of a spending bill as they lobby for leadership to include a $1,200 direct payment in a pandemic aid package. Neither lawmaker followed through on the warning.
Before the Senate unanimously passed the spending bill, Sanders said he would "object to any attempt" by the chamber to pass a full-year spending plan without also approving a pandemic relief package that includes "substantial direct payments."
Hawley earlier tweeted that he would not block the legislation after top Republicans assured him a final relief deal would include "direct assistance to working people." Lawmakers are expected to include $600 payments, down from the $1,200 checks approved as part of the CARES Act in March.


cnbc--2020-12-18--Biden transition and top Pentagon officials at odds over canceled briefings

U.S. President-elect Joe Biden looks at his watch as he arrives arrives to announce former South Bend , Indiana Mayor Pete Buttigieg as his nominee for secretary of transportation during a news conference at Biden 's transition headquarters in Wilmington , Delaware , U.S. , December 16 , 2020 .
WASHINGTON – Tensions between President-elect Joe Biden 's transition team and political appointees at the Pentagon erupted on Friday over acting Defense Secretary Christopher Miller 's abrupt decision Thursday to cancel transition team meetings with Pentagon officials for the rest of the year .
In a statement Friday , Miller @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Department of Defense would be taking a `` mutually agreed upon holiday pause , '' and restart meetings and briefings in the new year .
But a spokesman for the Biden transition team said that no such mutual agreement had ever existed .
`` Let me be clear : there was no mutually agreed upon holiday break , '' transition spokesman Yohannes Abraham told reporters on Friday afternoon .
`` In fact , we think it 's important that briefings and other engagements continue during this period , as there 's no time @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of meetings caught Defense Department officials by surprise , according to Axios , which first reported the news of Miller 's decision .
A spokesman for the Department of Defense did not reply to a request for comment from CNBC on the conflicting accounts from Miller and Biden transition officials .
But Abraham left little doubt about how frustrated the Biden team is with top Pentagon officials , who they see as having refused so far to fully cooperate with the transition .
`` There have been many agencies and departments that have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ over the past few weeks , '' said Abraham .
`` But there have been pockets of recalcitrance , and DoD is one of them . ''
Miller , however , insisted that at no time had the Pentagon `` canceled or declined any interview '' with Biden transition officials .
He said the department `` will continue to provide all required support to the Agency Review Team to keep our nation and her citizens safe . ''
The Biden team said they hoped the Defense Department would reverse its decision .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , meetings and requests for information , which are substantively interchangeable , it 's our hope and expectation that that will happen immediately , '' said Abraham .
Miller was scheduled to meet with President Donald Trump on Friday afternoon , the only publicly announced event on Trump 's schedule for the day .
Miller was named acting secretary of Defense on Nov. 9 , after Trump abruptly fired Defense Secretary Mark Esper .

U.S. President-elect Joe Biden looks at his watch as he arrives arrives to announce former South Bend, Indiana Mayor Pete Buttigieg as his nominee for secretary of transportation during a news conference at Biden's transition headquarters in Wilmington, Delaware, U.S., December 16, 2020.
WASHINGTON — Tensions between President-elect Joe Biden's transition team and political appointees at the Pentagon erupted on Friday over acting Defense Secretary Christopher Miller's abrupt decision Thursday to cancel transition team meetings with Pentagon officials for the rest of the year.
In a statement Friday, Miller claimed that the Biden transition and the Department of Defense would be taking a "mutually agreed upon holiday pause," and restart meetings and briefings in the new year.
But a spokesman for the Biden transition team said that no such mutual agreement had ever existed.
"Let me be clear: There was no mutually agreed-upon holiday break," transition spokesman Yohannes Abraham told reporters on Friday afternoon. "In fact, we think it's important that briefings and other engagements continue during this period, as there's no time to spare."
The abrupt suspension of meetings caught Defense Department officials by surprise, according to Axios, which first reported the news of Miller's decision.
A spokesman for the Department of Defense did not reply to a request for comment from CNBC on the conflicting accounts from Miller and Biden transition officials.
But Abraham left little doubt about how frustrated the Biden team is with top Pentagon officials, who they see as having refused so far to fully cooperate with the transition. "There have been many agencies and departments that have facilitated the exchange of information and meetings over the past few weeks," said Abraham. "But there have been pockets of recalcitrance, and DoD is one of them."
Miller, however, insisted that at no time had the Pentagon "canceled or declined any interview" with Biden transition officials. He said the department "will continue to provide all required support to the Agency Review Team to keep our nation and her citizens safe."
The Biden team said they hoped the Defense Department would reverse its decision. "In terms of when meetings will resume, meetings and requests for information, which are substantively interchangeable, it's our hope and expectation that that will happen immediately," said Abraham.
Miller was scheduled to meet with President Donald Trump on Friday afternoon, the only publicly announced event on Trump's schedule for the day.
Miller was named acting secretary of Defense on Nov. 9, after Trump abruptly fired Defense Secretary Mark Esper.