usatoday--2020-01-07--New Jersey Democrats gave thousands to Jeff Van Drew before he switched parties. Now they're mad.

Princeton businesswoman Michelle Lambros Pirone opened her summer home on Long Beach Island in August 2018 to congressional candidate Jeff Van Drew so that local Democrats could open up their wallets .
She invited friends , neighbors and stalwarts from the Democratic Club of Long Beach Island to mingle with Van Drew , a Cape May County state legislator who was poised to be the first Democrat to seize the sprawling 2nd Congressional District in South Jersey in nearly a quarter of a century .
Van Drew talked about the need to defeat his Republican opponent , Seth Grossman , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and national party over racially charged remarks , she said .
But Van Drew also touched on the elephant-in-the-room issue that was stoking Democratic Party fury : Donald Trump .
`` He trashed his opponent more than Trump , but it was all in the same vein , '' Pirone said .
`` It was about how we needed to put up a fight against Trump and Trumpism and where the direction of the country was going . ''
Last month , Van Drew pivoted in a different direction .
He joined the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ support '' for Trump , thrusting the once quiet , below-the-radar South Jersey district into the center of the national debate over the potential perils and payoffs of Trump 's impeachment for both parties .
New Jersey Democrats are now lashing out , furious that the Jeff Van Drew that they nurtured and protected with money and political muscle during his three-decade climb from Dennis Township committeeman to Congress has morphed into a Trump enabler .
To many Democrats , Van Drew 's party switch goes far beyond the rank opportunism that often @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is now propping up a reckless president who poses as an existential threat to democracy itself , they argue .
And he 's aiding and abetting Trump with their donations , they say .
Van Drew formally defected the day after voting against impeaching Trump .
He was one of only three House Democrats to break ranks .
`` Yeah , I want a refund , '' Pirone said of the event , which netted a modest haul of $ 2,500 to $ 3,000 in small donations .
John Kostopoulos , president of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , succinctly put it this way : `` I gave money to him to represent the Democratic Party , not take the money to buy advertisements as a Republican with my money . ''
Democratic chairmen of the eight South Jersey counties also fired off a statement last month , demanding an immediate refund of `` every dime '' he raised from Democrats since he `` sold out '' in December .
Trending news : Penn Station expansion plan to include 8 new tracks , increasing capacity by 40 percent More Stile : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , keep an eye on these NJ politicos in 2020 '' His refusal to do the right thing would only prove he ’ s nothing more than a Bernie Madoff-style con artist stealing other people ’ s money in a scheme to fill his campaign coffers , '' they fumed in a joint statement .
Atlantic County Democratic Party Chairman Michael Suleiman did n't narrow the demand to Van Drew 's post-defection donations .
He said Van Drew should return it all , although he doubts that 's going to happen .
While @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' to vote no on impeachment , Suleiman should `` face the music from the people who supported you . ''
`` You took our money , we knocked on doors for you , we made phone calls for you , but you ’ re going to tuck your tail between your legs ? ''
he said in an interview with NJTV last week .
`` That ’ s ridiculous . ''
Van Drew did not respond to messages seeking comment on Monday .
His federal campaign account reported $ 932,000 on hand @ @ @ @ @ @ @ under no obligation to return money to aggrieved donors , campaign finance experts say , although it 's not unprecedented .
The late U.S. Sen. Arlen Specter of Pennsylvania agreed to return donations `` upon request '' when he switched from the Republican Party to the Democrats in 2009 .
Many took him up on the offer .
Van Drew was a conservative Democrat from South Jersey who was often given a pass from party-line votes on sensitive , progressive legislation during his tenure in the state Legislature , on the grounds that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ reelection .
To many , Van Drew was adopting the same logic as a first-term congressman , fearing that a vote for impeachment was unpopular in his district .
He argued that the issue was doomed to die in the Republican Senate and diverted attention away from priorities voters cared about .
But he was caught in a tight squeeze : Internal polling showed that a `` no '' vote could destroy his chances of winning the Democratic nomination .
And some Democratic leaders , like Suleiman , made it clear that he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's `` no '' vote .
So Van Drew jumped ship .
And he is taking the money with him .
Van Drew is staked with other valuable benefits that may come in handy in a likely primary this spring .
Trump 's campaign dispatched former Trump White House political director Bill Stepien to help run Van Drew 's campaign .
Stepien has a deep knowledge of New Jersey 's political landscape , having served twice as former Gov .
Chris Christie 's campaign manager .
A pro-Trump political action committee is also @ @ @ @ @ @ @ television ads for Van Drew and $ 50,000 in digital ads .
And then , of course , there is Trump , whose blessing will likely give Van Drew an edge against challengers in the June Republican primary .
The Trump campaign announced Monday that the president will hold a Jan. 28 rally in Wildwood , at the southern end of Van Drew 's district .
Yet , to Pirone , the switch is still baffling .
In her eyes , the fundraiser was the start of a budding political relationship .
After @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to a luncheon in Philadelphia with House Majority Leader Steny Hoyer of Maryland .
She became familiar with his staff .
Pirone noted that Van Drew was a `` little more conservative from where I am on the spectrum , but a Democrat nonetheless . ''
She was willing to support him to help Democrats reclaim the House and capture a seat represented by Republican Frank LoBiondo , who was stepping down after 24 years .
`` Certainly , if I had any inkling , I would have never done anything for him @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' said Pirone , who was elected to the Princeton Borough Council in November .
Other Democrats also had a nuanced view of Van Drew .
Kostopoulos recalled meeting with Van Drew with a small group three weeks before the switch to discuss climate change policy .
Van Drew named one of the members to his advisory panel , Kostopoulos said .
`` Although we suspected that he was n't a 100 percent Democrat , he was doing the right thing here and there , '' he said .
`` His record was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the guests at Pirone 's event last year .
He does n't remember much of what Van Drew said beyond some general remarks .
But one moment stands out .
`` I remember handing him ... an envelope with checks , which he took graciously , '' Kostopoulos said .

New Jersey Democrats gave thousands to Jeff Van Drew before he switched parties. Now they're mad.
Show Caption Hide Caption Trump: Don't feel like I'm being impeached Trump: Don't feel like I'm being impeached AP
Princeton businesswoman Michelle Lambros Pirone opened her summer home on Long Beach Island in August 2018 to congressional candidate Jeff Van Drew so that local Democrats could open up their wallets.
She invited friends, neighbors and stalwarts from the Democratic Club of Long Beach Island to mingle with Van Drew, a Cape May County state legislator who was poised to be the first Democrat to seize the sprawling 2nd Congressional District in South Jersey in nearly a quarter of a century.
Van Drew talked about the need to defeat his Republican opponent, Seth Grossman, who had been shunned by the state and national party over racially charged remarks, she said. But Van Drew also touched on the elephant-in-the-room issue that was stoking Democratic Party fury: Donald Trump.
"He trashed his opponent more than Trump, but it was all in the same vein," Pirone said. "It was about how we needed to put up a fight against Trump and Trumpism and where the direction of the country was going."
Last month, Van Drew pivoted in a different direction. He joined the Republican Party and pledged his "undying support" for Trump, thrusting the once quiet, below-the-radar South Jersey district into the center of the national debate over the potential perils and payoffs of Trump's impeachment for both parties.
New Jersey Democrats are now lashing out, furious that the Jeff Van Drew that they nurtured and protected with money and political muscle during his three-decade climb from Dennis Township committeeman to Congress has morphed into a Trump enabler.
To many Democrats, Van Drew's party switch goes far beyond the rank opportunism that often prompts such a move. Van Drew is now propping up a reckless president who poses as an existential threat to democracy itself, they argue. And he's aiding and abetting Trump with their donations, they say.
Van Drew formally defected the day after voting against impeaching Trump. He was one of only three House Democrats to break ranks.
"Yeah, I want a refund,'' Pirone said of the event, which netted a modest haul of $2,500 to $3,000 in small donations.
John Kostopoulos, president of the Democratic Club of Long Beach Island, succinctly put it this way: "I gave money to him to represent the Democratic Party, not take the money to buy advertisements as a Republican with my money."
Democratic chairmen of the eight South Jersey counties also fired off a statement last month, demanding an immediate refund of "every dime" he raised from Democrats since he "sold out" in December.
Trending news: Penn Station expansion plan to include 8 new tracks, increasing capacity by 40 percent
More Stile: Whether you know their names or not, keep an eye on these NJ politicos in 2020
"His refusal to do the right thing would only prove he’s nothing more than a Bernie Madoff-style con artist stealing other people’s money in a scheme to fill his campaign coffers,'' they fumed in a joint statement.
Atlantic County Democratic Party Chairman Michael Suleiman didn't narrow the demand to Van Drew's post-defection donations. He said Van Drew should return it all, although he doubts that's going to happen. While it was Van Drew's "prerogative" to vote no on impeachment, Suleiman should "face the music from the people who supported you."
"You took our money, we knocked on doors for you, we made phone calls for you, but you’re going to tuck your tail between your legs?'' he said in an interview with NJTV last week. "That’s ridiculous."
Van Drew did not respond to messages seeking comment on Monday. His federal campaign account reported $932,000 on hand as of Sept. 30. He is under no obligation to return money to aggrieved donors, campaign finance experts say, although it's not unprecedented.
The late U.S. Sen. Arlen Specter of Pennsylvania agreed to return donations "upon request" when he switched from the Republican Party to the Democrats in 2009. Many took him up on the offer.
Van Drew was a conservative Democrat from South Jersey who was often given a pass from party-line votes on sensitive, progressive legislation during his tenure in the state Legislature, on the grounds that those votes could harm his chances at reelection.
To many, Van Drew was adopting the same logic as a first-term congressman, fearing that a vote for impeachment was unpopular in his district. He argued that the issue was doomed to die in the Republican Senate and diverted attention away from priorities voters cared about.
But he was caught in a tight squeeze: Internal polling showed that a "no'' vote could destroy his chances of winning the Democratic nomination. And some Democratic leaders, like Suleiman, made it clear that he would not "tolerate" Van Drew's "no" vote.
So Van Drew jumped ship. And he is taking the money with him.
Van Drew is staked with other valuable benefits that may come in handy in a likely primary this spring. Trump's campaign dispatched former Trump White House political director Bill Stepien to help run Van Drew's campaign. Stepien has a deep knowledge of New Jersey's political landscape, having served twice as former Gov. Chris Christie's campaign manager.
....and has my FULL Endorsement. This is a BIG win for our GOP and a BIG win for South Jersey. South Jersey is TRUMP COUNTRY, so I know ALL NJ Republicans will join me in supporting Jeff Van Drew. The Dems are already coming after him, so help Jeff win. https://t.co/whoUDnen12 — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) December 20, 2019
A pro-Trump political action committee is also planning to run $200,000 worth of television ads for Van Drew and $50,000 in digital ads. And then, of course, there is Trump, whose blessing will likely give Van Drew an edge against challengers in the June Republican primary. The Trump campaign announced Monday that the president will hold a Jan. 28 rally in Wildwood, at the southern end of Van Drew's district.
Yet, to Pirone, the switch is still baffling. In her eyes, the fundraiser was the start of a budding political relationship. After the fundraiser, Van Drew invited Pirone to a luncheon in Philadelphia with House Majority Leader Steny Hoyer of Maryland. She became familiar with his staff.
Pirone noted that Van Drew was a "little more conservative from where I am on the spectrum, but a Democrat nonetheless." She was willing to support him to help Democrats reclaim the House and capture a seat represented by Republican Frank LoBiondo, who was stepping down after 24 years.
"Certainly, if I had any inkling, I would have never done anything for him, let alone host a fundraiser,'' said Pirone, who was elected to the Princeton Borough Council in November.
Other Democrats also had a nuanced view of Van Drew.
Kostopoulos recalled meeting with Van Drew with a small group three weeks before the switch to discuss climate change policy. Van Drew named one of the members to his advisory panel, Kostopoulos said.
"Although we suspected that he wasn't a 100 percent Democrat, he was doing the right thing here and there,'' he said. "His record was not bad."
Kostopoulos was among the guests at Pirone's event last year. He doesn't remember much of what Van Drew said beyond some general remarks. But one moment stands out.
"I remember handing him ... an envelope with checks, which he took graciously," Kostopoulos said.
Email: stile@northjersey.com Twitter: @politicalstile


usatoday--2020-01-07--Yogis for Marianne: 2020 candidate draws 150 to event days after laying off staff

IOWA CITY , Ia .
— The first week of January , Democratic presidential candidate Marianne Williamson laid off her entire campaign staff , including her staff in Iowa .
Just a month before the Iowa caucuses , the move was a surprise .
Still , on Saturday afternoon , the author and spiritual guide drew a crowd of more than 150 people stretched out over yoga mats looking to hear her message .
The group had already moved through two hours of yoga and meditation as Williamson began to address the crowd .
While a few rolled up their @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the vast majority for 45 minutes as she wove a message unique to their shared interest .
The practice of yoga across the country and the ubiquity `` mindfulness '' in daily life is proof , for Williamson , that the group she terms the `` spiritual community '' has a lot of power .
The problem , she said , is that the community 's drive to better themselves tends to push them from away from politics .
Williamson on the issues : The 2020 candidate shares her views on health care @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' Many people in the spiritual community did n't want to hear about politics .
And many people in the political world did n't want to hear about politics from me or from anyone with a spiritual perspective , '' Williamson said .
`` I was living in a space of connectivity between the two . ''
Julia Theisen , 58 , is a co-owner of Dubuque 's Body and Soul Wellness Center and Spa .
She said she felt that divide until Williamson 's campaign .
“ I had avoided going down @ @ @ @ @ @ @ found a candidate that spoke the same language as me , and Marianne does that , ” Theisen said .
Having recently become a U.S. citizen , this cycle will be Theisen 's first chance to caucus for a candidate .
She said she 's all in for Williamson `` until the very end , whether she 's president or not , as long as she is still running . ''
When asked about Williamson laying off her entire campaign staff , Theisen said if polling numbers or fundraising reports had n't shaken @ @ @ @ @ @ @ news .
2020 election : Here 's where the Democrats running for president stand on health care , immigration and more '' I 'm trying so hard not to be thinking about this as a traditional race , and so it 's like Marianne 's making good decisions about what she needs to do — and that 's one of the decisions right now , '' she said .
`` So be it . ''
Before Williamson 's event , three of her unpaid organizers who came ahead of the event had their @ @ @ @ @ @ @ an anti-war protest earlier that day .
Having driven hours again for the campaign , they were confident in the exuberance of the supporters they found .
`` We believe in miracles , '' Nancy Zak , 59 , of Des Moines said .
`` That means anything is possible . ''
`` The truth is that she 's a voice of reason at this point in time , and she 's being listened to , '' said Mark Gerstein , 58 , of Ames .
`` And so let 's just keep @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Smith writes about government , growth and development for the Press-Citizen .
Reach him at zsmith @ press-citizen.com or 319 -339-7354 , and follow him on Twitter via @ zacharyos .

Zachary Oren Smith, Iowa City Press-Citizen

Yogis for Marianne: 2020 candidate draws 150 to event days after laying off staff
IOWA CITY, Ia. — The first week of January, Democratic presidential candidate Marianne Williamson laid off her entire campaign staff, including her staff in Iowa. Just a month before the Iowa caucuses, the move was a surprise.
Still, on Saturday afternoon, the author and spiritual guide drew a crowd of more than 150 people stretched out over yoga mats looking to hear her message.
The group had already moved through two hours of yoga and meditation as Williamson began to address the crowd. While a few rolled up their mats when she began, Williamson held the vast majority for 45 minutes as she wove a message unique to their shared interest.
The practice of yoga across the country and the ubiquity "mindfulness" in daily life is proof, for Williamson, that the group she terms the "spiritual community" has a lot of power. The problem, she said, is that the community's drive to better themselves tends to push them from away from politics.
Williamson on the issues: The 2020 candidate shares her views on health care, gun control, immigration and more
"Many people in the spiritual community didn't want to hear about politics. And many people in the political world didn't want to hear about politics from me or from anyone with a spiritual perspective," Williamson said. "I was living in a space of connectivity between the two."
Julia Theisen, 58, is a co-owner of Dubuque's Body and Soul Wellness Center and Spa. She said she felt that divide until Williamson's campaign.
“I had avoided going down this route, partly because I never found a candidate that spoke the same language as me, and Marianne does that,” Theisen said.
Having recently become a U.S. citizen, this cycle will be Theisen's first chance to caucus for a candidate. She said she's all in for Williamson "until the very end, whether she's president or not, as long as she is still running."
When asked about Williamson laying off her entire campaign staff, Theisen said if polling numbers or fundraising reports hadn't shaken her support, neither would Thursday's news.
2020 election: Here's where the Democrats running for president stand on health care, immigration and more
"I'm trying so hard not to be thinking about this as a traditional race, and so it's like Marianne's making good decisions about what she needs to do — and that's one of the decisions right now," she said. "So be it."
Before Williamson's event, three of her unpaid organizers who came ahead of the event had their "Marianne Williamson 2020" signs at an anti-war protest earlier that day.
Having driven hours again for the campaign, they were confident in the exuberance of the supporters they found.
"We believe in miracles," Nancy Zak, 59, of Des Moines said. "That means anything is possible."
"The truth is that she's a voice of reason at this point in time, and she's being listened to," said Mark Gerstein, 58, of Ames. "And so let's just keep our ears open."
Zachary Oren Smith writes about government, growth and development for the Press-Citizen. Reach him at zsmith@press-citizen.com or 319 -339-7354, and follow him on Twitter via @zacharyos.


usatoday--2020-01-07--John Bolton says he will testify in Trump's impeachment trial if Senate subpoenas him

WASHINGTON – John Bolton , President Donald Trump 's former national security adviser , said Monday that he is `` prepared to testify '' in a Senate impeachment trial – if he 's subpoenaed by the Republican-controlled chamber .
`` I have concluded that , if the Senate issues a subpoena for my testimony , I am prepared to testify , '' Bolton said in a statement Monday .
Bolton 's unexpected statement – coming after he 's played coy for weeks about what he knows and whether he would dish on Trump – plays into the hands of House @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Senate Democrats .
If Senate Republicans now refuse to subpoena Bolton and other witnesses , `` they would make absolutely clear they are participating in a cover-up , '' Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer , D-N.Y. , said shortly after Bolton issued his statement .
Democrats want Bolton to testify , hoping he would be a bombshell witness in their case against Trump , which accuses the president of soliciting interference from Ukraine in the 2020 presidential election .
Bolton has hinted that he could offer new details about the Ukraine pressure campaign @ @ @ @ @ @ @ many of the events , meetings , and conversations about which you have already received testimony , '' his lawyer said in a November letter to House Democrats , `` as well as many relevant meetings and conversations that have not yet been discussed in the testimonies thus far . ''
On Monday , Bolton said he 's tried to balance his obligations `` as a citizen and as former National Security Adviser , '' portraying himself as torn between a presidential directive not to testify and a desire to comply with a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ questioned the sincerity of Bolton 's offer , saying the Republican-run Senate is unlikely to call any witnesses .
The House impeached Trump for abuse of power and obstructing Congress in a historic vote on Dec. 18 .
Pelosi has not yet sent the two articles of impeachment to the Senate for a trial ; she 's holding them back as leverage in her effort to pressure Republicans to call new witnesses during a Senate trial .
In November , Bolton defied a request from Democrats leading the House impeachment inquiry to testify @ @ @ @ @ @ @ lawyer told lawmakers he would take the impeachment committee to court if it subpoenaed him .
House Democrats decided not to subpoena Bolton during their probe , arguing it would delay their investigation with a protracted court battle ; instead , they labeled Bolton 's refusal to appear as evidence of obstruction .
Since the House vote , Schumer has pushed for summoning four witnesses who did not testify during the House inquiry , including Bolton and acting White House Chief of Staff Mick Mulvaney .
Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell , R-Ky. @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , pushing for a quick trial that would lead to Trump 's acquittal .
Republicans have criticized Pelosi for refusing to transmit the articles of impeachment to the Senate , saying they have not yet been able to organize the trial .
McConnell did not mention Bolton by name during a Senate floor speech on Monday , but said he wants the House impeachment prosecutors and Trump 's defense attorneys to present their cases before the Senate decides whether to call witnesses .
There 's no question Bolton , who clashed with Trump @ @ @ @ @ @ @ acrimonious terms , could provide an insider 's account of Trump 's effort to pressure Ukraine 's president , Volodymyr Zelensky , for political favors .
According to Fiona Hill , one of Bolton 's former deputies , Bolton was alarmed by the Ukraine pressure campaign , particularly the role of Rudy Giuliani , Trump 's personal lawyer , played in carrying out that shadow foreign policy agenda .
Hill said Bolton called Giuliani a `` hand grenade '' and referred to the Ukraine effort as a `` drug deal '' that would @ @ @ @ @ @ @ supporters welcomed the prospect of Bolton 's testimony , saying he can shed light on the president 's decision to temporarily block aid to Ukraine as he and others pressing Zelensky to open two investigations that would benefit Trump in his 2020 reelection campaign .
`` Good for you @ AmbJohnBolton , '' tweeted Neal Katyal , former acting solicitor general and author of a book on impeachment .
`` We are all Americans , united in our pursuit of the truth . ''
Katyal added ; `` I hope your White House @ @ @ @ @ @ @ your lead and testify as well .
The American people deserve no less . ''
But Barb McQuade , a former federal prosecutor , described Bolton 's new statement as `` a PR move '' designed to help the former national security adviser sell copies of his forthcoming book .
`` He is currently in a bad spot because he looks like he was willing to tell his story only for money , not for country , '' said McQuade , a law professor at the University of Michigan .
`` He is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ his testimony . ''
If McConnell does subpoena him , Bolton could always change his mind , citing executive privilege , McQuade said .
Others said that , depending on how the Senate trial 's rules are written , a simple majority of senators could approve a subpoena – and a few GOP senators may want to hear from Bolton and others .
`` Everyone saying 'yeah but the Senate wo n't subpoena Bolton ' ... just chill for a moment , '' tweeted national security lawyer Bradley P. Moss .
`` Let @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for a few hours . ''
Moss told USA TODAY that `` all eyes '' would now be trained first on Trump , to see how he reacts to Bolton 's statement , and then on a handful of moderate GOP senators who could potentially break with McConnell to demand testimony from Bolton and other witnesses .
Schumer said Sunday it would take only four Republican senators to join Democrats in the push for witnesses , and possibly new documents .
`` We have the ability to require votes on the four witnesses @ @ @ @ @ @ @ there ’ s agreement or not , '' Schumer said on ABC 's This Week .
`` We have the ability to ask for the documents and I hope , pray , and believe there ’ s a decent chance that four Republicans will join us . ''
The White House declined to comment on Bolton 's statement .

Deirdre Shesgreen and David Jackson, USA TODAY

John Bolton says he will testify in Trump's impeachment trial if Senate subpoenas him
Show Caption Hide Caption Presidential impeachment: Clinton, Johnson, Nixon test U.S. democracy Presidents have been impeached, but none have been removed from office due to impeachment. Confusing? Here's how. Just the FAQs, USA TODAY
WASHINGTON – John Bolton, President Donald Trump's former national security adviser, said Monday that he is "prepared to testify" in a Senate impeachment trial – if he's subpoenaed by the Republican-controlled chamber.
"I have concluded that, if the Senate issues a subpoena for my testimony, I am prepared to testify," Bolton said in a statement Monday.
Bolton's unexpected statement – coming after he's played coy for weeks about what he knows and whether he would dish on Trump – plays into the hands of House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., and Senate Democrats.
If Senate Republicans now refuse to subpoena Bolton and other witnesses, "they would make absolutely clear they are participating in a cover-up," Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., said shortly after Bolton issued his statement.
Democrats want Bolton to testify, hoping he would be a bombshell witness in their case against Trump, which accuses the president of soliciting interference from Ukraine in the 2020 presidential election.
Bolton has hinted that he could offer new details about the Ukraine pressure campaign.
He was "personally involved in many of the events, meetings, and conversations about which you have already received testimony," his lawyer said in a November letter to House Democrats, "as well as many relevant meetings and conversations that have not yet been discussed in the testimonies thus far."
On Monday, Bolton said he's tried to balance his obligations "as a citizen and as former National Security Adviser," portraying himself as torn between a presidential directive not to testify and a desire to comply with a congressional request for information.
But skeptics questioned the sincerity of Bolton's offer, saying the Republican-run Senate is unlikely to call any witnesses.
The House impeached Trump for abuse of power and obstructing Congress in a historic vote on Dec. 18. Pelosi has not yet sent the two articles of impeachment to the Senate for a trial; she's holding them back as leverage in her effort to pressure Republicans to call new witnesses during a Senate trial.
In November, Bolton defied a request from Democrats leading the House impeachment inquiry to testify. At the time, Bolton's lawyer told lawmakers he would take the impeachment committee to court if it subpoenaed him.
House Democrats decided not to subpoena Bolton during their probe, arguing it would delay their investigation with a protracted court battle; instead, they labeled Bolton's refusal to appear as evidence of obstruction.
Since the House vote, Schumer has pushed for summoning four witnesses who did not testify during the House inquiry, including Bolton and acting White House Chief of Staff Mick Mulvaney.
Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., has balked at calling any witnesses, pushing for a quick trial that would lead to Trump's acquittal. Republicans have criticized Pelosi for refusing to transmit the articles of impeachment to the Senate, saying they have not yet been able to organize the trial.
McConnell did not mention Bolton by name during a Senate floor speech on Monday, but said he wants the House impeachment prosecutors and Trump's defense attorneys to present their cases before the Senate decides whether to call witnesses.
There's no question Bolton, who clashed with Trump repeatedly and left the White House on acrimonious terms, could provide an insider's account of Trump's effort to pressure Ukraine's president, Volodymyr Zelensky, for political favors.
According to Fiona Hill, one of Bolton's former deputies, Bolton was alarmed by the Ukraine pressure campaign, particularly the role of Rudy Giuliani, Trump's personal lawyer, played in carrying out that shadow foreign policy agenda. Hill said Bolton called Giuliani a "hand grenade" and referred to the Ukraine effort as a "drug deal" that would backfire on the White House.
Impeachment supporters welcomed the prospect of Bolton's testimony, saying he can shed light on the president's decision to temporarily block aid to Ukraine as he and others pressing Zelensky to open two investigations that would benefit Trump in his 2020 reelection campaign.
"Good for you @AmbJohnBolton," tweeted Neal Katyal, former acting solicitor general and author of a book on impeachment. "We are all Americans, united in our pursuit of the truth."
Katyal added; "I hope your White House colleagues, including President Trump, follow your lead and testify as well. The American people deserve no less."
But Barb McQuade, a former federal prosecutor, described Bolton's new statement as "a PR move" designed to help the former national security adviser sell copies of his forthcoming book.
"He is currently in a bad spot because he looks like he was willing to tell his story only for money, not for country," said McQuade, a law professor at the University of Michigan. "He is gambling that the Senate will not demand his testimony."
If McConnell does subpoena him, Bolton could always change his mind, citing executive privilege, McQuade said.
Others said that, depending on how the Senate trial's rules are written, a simple majority of senators could approve a subpoena – and a few GOP senators may want to hear from Bolton and others.
"Everyone saying 'yeah but the Senate won't subpoena Bolton' ... just chill for a moment," tweeted national security lawyer Bradley P. Moss. "Let the president stew with this new cycle for a few hours."
Moss told USA TODAY that "all eyes" would now be trained first on Trump, to see how he reacts to Bolton's statement, and then on a handful of moderate GOP senators who could potentially break with McConnell to demand testimony from Bolton and other witnesses.
Schumer said Sunday it would take only four Republican senators to join Democrats in the push for witnesses, and possibly new documents.
"We have the ability to require votes on the four witnesses we’ve asked for, whether there’s agreement or not," Schumer said on ABC's This Week. "We have the ability to ask for the documents and I hope, pray, and believe there’s a decent chance that four Republicans will join us."
The White House declined to comment on Bolton's statement.


usatoday--2020-01-07--Julián Castro endorses Elizabeth Warren for president after ending his own campaign

WASHINGTON – Julián Castro , who dropped out of the 2020 presidential race last week , has endorsed Sen. Elizabeth Warren in the Democratic primary .
In a video posted on his Twitter account Monday , Castro said his `` story would n't be possible without the strong women that came before '' him .
Castro , a Housing and Urban Development Secretary during the Obama administration , said Warren is `` one candidate I see who 's unafraid to fight like hell to make sure America 's promise will be there for everyone . ''
`` Who will make @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in America or where your family came from in the world , you have a path to opportunity , too , '' Castro said .
`` That 's why I 'm proud to endorse Elizabeth Warren for president . ''
Castro last Thursday announced he was ending his presidential bid , saying , `` I 've determined that it simply is n't our time . ''
Castro was the only Latino candidate running for president in 2020 and often focused his campaign on issues facing marginalized groups .
Following his endorsement , Castro @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with Warren at a joint rally at Brooklyn ’ s Kings Theatre on Tuesday .
2020 election : Warren says she will vote for Trump 's USMCA trade deal 2020 candidates : A visual guide to the candidate ’ s positions on healthcare , climate change , guns and more In the video announcing his endorsement of Warren , Castro is seen meeting with the Massachusetts senator at her home .
`` You did so many things in this campaign , and it continues to matter , '' Warren tells Castro in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the past tense ; it matters . ''

Julián Castro endorses Elizabeth Warren for president after ending his own campaign
Show Caption Hide Caption Difference between caucus and primary, explained The 2020 election is nearing and with that, comes the caucuses and primary elections. But what’s the difference? Just the FAQs, USA TODAY
WASHINGTON – Julián Castro, who dropped out of the 2020 presidential race last week, has endorsed Sen. Elizabeth Warren in the Democratic primary.
In a video posted on his Twitter account Monday, Castro said his "story wouldn't be possible without the strong women that came before" him. Castro, a Housing and Urban Development Secretary during the Obama administration, said Warren is "one candidate I see who's unafraid to fight like hell to make sure America's promise will be there for everyone."
"Who will make sure that no matter where you live in America or where your family came from in the world, you have a path to opportunity, too," Castro said. "That's why I'm proud to endorse Elizabeth Warren for president."
Today I'm proud to endorse @ewarren for president.
Elizabeth and I share a vision of America where everyone counts. An America where people—not the wealthy or well-connected—are put first. I'm proud to join her in the fight for big, structural change. pic.twitter.com/xDvMEKqpF3 — Julián Castro (@JulianCastro) January 6, 2020
Castro last Thursday announced he was ending his presidential bid, saying, "I've determined that it simply isn't our time." Castro was the only Latino candidate running for president in 2020 and often focused his campaign on issues facing marginalized groups.
Following his endorsement, Castro is traveling to New York to campaign with Warren at a joint rally at Brooklyn’s Kings Theatre on Tuesday.
2020 election: Warren says she will vote for Trump's USMCA trade deal
2020 candidates: A visual guide to the candidate’s positions on healthcare, climate change, guns and more
In the video announcing his endorsement of Warren, Castro is seen meeting with the Massachusetts senator at her home.
"You did so many things in this campaign, and it continues to matter," Warren tells Castro in the video. "It's not just in the past tense; it matters."


usatoday--2020-01-08--2020 Democrats send prayers to troops after Iranian attack on Iraq base housing US military

WASHINGTON – Democratic presidential candidates say they are sending prayers to U.S. military members as reports develop of Iranian missile strikes on Iraqi military bases that house American and coalition forces .
The strike , an apparent move of retaliation for the U.S.-ordered killing of military leader Qasem Soleimani , occurred Tuesday evening and consisted of at least a dozen ballistic missiles targeting at least two sites , according to the Defense Department .
`` It is clear that these missiles were launched from Iran and targeted at least two Iraqi military bases hosting U.S. military and coalition personnel at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ spokesperson said .
`` We are working on initial battle damage assessments . ''
Pentagon : Iran launched 'more than a dozen ' missiles at bases in Iraq housing U.S. troops Democratic candidates have criticized Trump heavily for his decision to target Soleimani , but the immediate aftermath of the Tuesday missile strikes largely focused on supporting troops while calling for a de-escalation of hostilities .
Former Vice President Joe Biden said on Twitter he would not comment on the strikes until more information was available , `` but there is one thing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are keeping our troops and Americans overseas in our prayers .
We hope you ’ ll keep them in yours . ''
Biden did address the airstrike at a fundraiser outside Philadelphia as reports emerged , saying that he 'd speak on it generally without many details available at the time .
“ What ’ s happening in Iraq and Iran today was predictable , ” Biden said , according to a pool report sent out by his campaign .
“ Not exactly what ’ s happening but the chaos that ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ withdrawing from the Iran nuclear deal and Soleimani 's killing .
“ Some of the things [ Trump has ] done and said in the meantime have been close to ludicrous , ” Biden said .
“ Including threatening to bomb holy sites… And I just pray to God as he goes through what ’ s happening , as we speak , that he ’ s listening to his military commanders for the first time because so far that has not been the case.
” How we got here : What you need @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Soleimani and the escalating situation with Iran New Jersey Sen. Cory Booker tweeted shortly after news broke , `` Praying for the safety of our troops and personnel in Iraq right now . ''
He added , `` We are quickly heading to a point of no return in the region .
We must use diplomacy to deescalate and keep Americans safe at home and abroad . ''
Booker had previously said that Trump `` has made that region less stable and less safe '' with his policy toward Iran .
`` Prayers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Prayers for wisdom for all governmental personnel .
Prayers for peace for all the world , '' author Marianne Williamson said .
After Soleimani was killed , Williamson said that Iran would `` almost certainly '' react significantly and warned that war with Iran would be `` catastrophic . ''
`` Tonight , Americans in Iraq are under fire , '' Pete Buttigieg said .
`` My prayers are with them , their loved ones , and their families . ''
The former South Bend , Ind .
Mayor , like his Democratic @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was a threat to `` safety and security , and that he masterminded threats and attacks on America and our allies . ''
But , he said , Congress and allies needed to be consulted before military action took place `` that could destabilize an entire region . ''
`` We must do all we can to protect our servicemembers and Americans at risk , '' Minnesota Sen. Amy Klobuchar said in a tweet of the Iranian missile attack .
Klobuchar has expressed concern about the `` timing , manner and potential consequences @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Sen. Elizabeth Warren opened a speaking event in Brooklyn by informing the audience about the news .
Warren , too , believes that Trump 's actions were reckless and would endanger lives .
2020 candidates on Soleimani 's death : Democrats react to killing of Iranian military leader Qasem Soleimani '' We have to start on a very sober note , '' she said .
`` For any of you who have n't been able to follow it , within the last hour , the Iranian government has announced that it has sent @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Iraq . ''
`` My three brothers all served in the military .
At this moment , my heart and my prayers are with our military and with their families in Iraq and all around the world .
But this is a reminder of why we need to deescalate tension in the Middle East .
The American people do not want a war with Iran . ''
And entrepreneur Andrew Yang , too , sent `` thoughts and prayers '' to the service members in Iraq : `` may they be safe and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' Sen. Michael Bennet , who called Trump `` the weakest foreign policy president in my lifetime '' after the strike on Soleimani , also tweeted Tuesday night .
`` American servicemembers are under attack .
I 'm monitoring the situation and thinking of the brave men and women serving in our military tonight . ''
'This was an act of war ' : Lawmakers react to Iran 's missile strike on US military bases Former Massachusetts Governor Deval Patrick tweeted that , `` Americans and our allies are under fire tonight .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ in our prayers . ''
Gaggling with reporters after an event in New Hampshire , Hawaiian Congresswoman and veteran Tulsi Gabbard described texting fellow friends and veterans who were asking , `` What the f*** is going on ? ''

Jeanine Santucci and Savannah Behrmann, USA TODAY

2020 Democrats send prayers to troops after Iranian attack on Iraq base housing US military
Show Caption Hide Caption Are we really ready for a World War III? Fears are mounting around the world following the assassination of Iranian General Qasem Soleimani - but is World War 3 about to happen? Just the FAQs, USA TODAY
WASHINGTON – Democratic presidential candidates say they are sending prayers to U.S. military members as reports develop of Iranian missile strikes on Iraqi military bases that house American and coalition forces.
The strike, an apparent move of retaliation for the U.S.-ordered killing of military leader Qasem Soleimani, occurred Tuesday evening and consisted of at least a dozen ballistic missiles targeting at least two sites, according to the Defense Department.
"It is clear that these missiles were launched from Iran and targeted at least two Iraqi military bases hosting U.S. military and coalition personnel at Al-Assad and Irbil," a Pentagon spokesperson said. "We are working on initial battle damage assessments."
Pentagon: Iran launched 'more than a dozen' missiles at bases in Iraq housing U.S. troops
Democratic candidates have criticized Trump heavily for his decision to target Soleimani, but the immediate aftermath of the Tuesday missile strikes largely focused on supporting troops while calling for a de-escalation of hostilities.
Former Vice President Joe Biden said on Twitter he would not comment on the strikes until more information was available, "but there is one thing I will say: Jill and I are keeping our troops and Americans overseas in our prayers. We hope you’ll keep them in yours."
I’m going to hold off on commenting on the news tonight until we know more, but there is one thing I will say: Jill and I are keeping our troops and Americans overseas in our prayers. We hope you’ll keep them in yours. — Joe Biden (@JoeBiden) January 8, 2020
Biden did address the airstrike at a fundraiser outside Philadelphia as reports emerged, saying that he'd speak on it generally without many details available at the time.
“What’s happening in Iraq and Iran today was predictable,” Biden said, according to a pool report sent out by his campaign. “Not exactly what’s happening but the chaos that’s ensuing.” He pointed to Trump's withdrawing from the Iran nuclear deal and Soleimani's killing.
“Some of the things [Trump has] done and said in the meantime have been close to ludicrous,” Biden said. “Including threatening to bomb holy sites… And I just pray to God as he goes through what’s happening, as we speak, that he’s listening to his military commanders for the first time because so far that has not been the case.”
How we got here: What you need to know about the death of Gen. Soleimani and the escalating situation with Iran
Iran fires missiles at bases housing U.S. troops in Iraq Iran fired missiles at two bases housing U.S. troops and coalition forces in Iraq in apparent retaliation for Gen. Qasem Soleimani's death. USA TODAY
New Jersey Sen. Cory Booker tweeted shortly after news broke, "Praying for the safety of our troops and personnel in Iraq right now."
He added, "We are quickly heading to a point of no return in the region. We must use diplomacy to deescalate and keep Americans safe at home and abroad."
Booker had previously said that Trump "has made that region less stable and less safe" with his policy toward Iran.
"Prayers for safety of all military personnel. Prayers for wisdom for all governmental personnel. Prayers for peace for all the world," author Marianne Williamson said. After Soleimani was killed, Williamson said that Iran would "almost certainly" react significantly and warned that war with Iran would be "catastrophic."
2020 candidates on the issues: Presidential hopefuls talk foreign policy, extremism, climate change and more
Tonight, Americans in Iraq are under fire.
My prayers are with them, their loved ones, and their families. — Pete Buttigieg (@PeteButtigieg) January 8, 2020
"Tonight, Americans in Iraq are under fire," Pete Buttigieg said. "My prayers are with them, their loved ones, and their families."
The former South Bend, Ind. Mayor, like his Democratic opponents, had already noted that Soleimani was a threat to "safety and security, and that he masterminded threats and attacks on America and our allies." But, he said, Congress and allies needed to be consulted before military action took place "that could destabilize an entire region."
"We must do all we can to protect our servicemembers and Americans at risk," Minnesota Sen. Amy Klobuchar said in a tweet of the Iranian missile attack. Klobuchar has expressed concern about the "timing, manner and potential consequences" of Soleimani's death.
Massachusetts Sen. Elizabeth Warren opened a speaking event in Brooklyn by informing the audience about the news. Warren, too, believes that Trump's actions were reckless and would endanger lives.
Elizabeth Warren: 'Of course' Soleimani was a terrorist
2020 candidates on Soleimani's death: Democrats react to killing of Iranian military leader Qasem Soleimani
"We have to start on a very sober note," she said. "For any of you who haven't been able to follow it, within the last hour, the Iranian government has announced that it has sent missiles to attack our military bases in Iraq."
"My three brothers all served in the military. At this moment, my heart and my prayers are with our military and with their families in Iraq and all around the world. But this is a reminder of why we need to deescalate tension in the Middle East. The American people do not want a war with Iran."
And entrepreneur Andrew Yang, too, sent "thoughts and prayers" to the service members in Iraq: "may they be safe and secure and see their families again."
Our thoughts and prayers are with our brave men and women serving in Iraq and keeping our country safe - may they be safe and secure and see their families again. — Andrew Yang🧢 (@AndrewYang) January 8, 2020
Sen. Michael Bennet, who called Trump "the weakest foreign policy president in my lifetime" after the strike on Soleimani, also tweeted Tuesday night. "American servicemembers are under attack. I'm monitoring the situation and thinking of the brave men and women serving in our military tonight."
'This was an act of war': Lawmakers react to Iran's missile strike on US military bases
Former Massachusetts Governor Deval Patrick tweeted that, "Americans and our allies are under fire tonight. Let us keep them and their families in our prayers."
Gaggling with reporters after an event in New Hampshire, Hawaiian Congresswoman and veteran Tulsi Gabbard described texting fellow friends and veterans who were asking, "What the f*** is going on?"
In a candid moment, Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard -- the only 2020 presidential candidate who has deployed to Iraq -- says friends and fellow veterans are texting her, "What the f*** is going on?" pic.twitter.com/zOXxLdrg4S — Nicole Sganga (@NicoleSganga) January 8, 2020
The day after the attack, billionaire Tom Steyer tweeted that he was "grateful that no Americans or Iraqis were harmed in last night's missile strikes by Iran. Let's make one thing clear: Trump created this crisis and his remarks today demonstrate, once again, that his go at it alone strategy makes our country less safe."
I'm grateful that no Americans or Iraqis were harmed in last night's missile strikes by Iran. Let's make one thing clear: Trump created this crisis and his remarks today demonstrate, once again, that his go at it alone strategy makes our country less safe. (1/2) — Tom Steyer (@TomSteyer) January 8, 2020
Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders said, "The American people do not want war with Iran" and that "Congress cannot stand by. It must act now to pass our legislation to uphold the Constitution and prevent Trump from spending trillions more on endless war."
The American people do not want war with Iran. They want to invest in health care, education, housing, and good jobs.
Congress cannot stand by. It must act now to pass our legislation to uphold the Constitution and prevent Trump from spending trillions more on endless war. — Bernie Sanders (@SenSanders) January 8, 2020
In an interview with the Washington Post Tuesday night, former New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg touched on the uncertainty of the situation with Iran, saying of Trump, "I do know that if you're making irresponsible decisions, the likelihood of bad and even calamitous results grows.”


usatoday--2020-01-08--McConnell: GOP will move on without Democrats to set rules for Senate impeachment trial of Trump

WASHINGTON – Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell said Tuesday that the GOP-led Senate would move forward on establishing rules for President Donald Trump'simpeachment trial without Democrats .
“ We have the votes , once the impeachment trial has begun , to pass a resolution essentially , very same , similar ” to the one establishing rules passed for the first phase of President Bill Clinton 's impeachment trial , McConnell said .
But the announcement was n't enough to move House Speaker Nancy Pelosi , who has refrained from sending articles of impeachment to the Senate , leaving the trial @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , in a letter to Democratic colleagues Tuesday evening , indicated that she would continue to hold articles , saying that she wanted to see a Senate resolution that will outline the procedures for the trial .
`` It is important that [ McConnell ] immediately publish this resolution , so that , as I have said before , we can see the arena in which we will be participating , appoint managers and transmit the articles to the Senate .
McConnell said the resolution would establish `` phase one '' of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the prosecution , arguments from the defense and a period of written questions . ''
A decision on witnesses would be made during the trial , rather than before it began , he said .
For weeks , McConnell , R-Ky. , and Senate Minority Leader Charles Schumer , D-N.Y. , attempted to come to an agreement on how the trial should operate .
McConnell pointed to precedent , arguing the trial should operate like Clinton 's in 1999 .
Schumer argued the presentation of witnesses and documents should be agreed to beforehand @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and testimony important to impeachment .
The information , he said , would shed more light on the allegations at the heart of impeachment : that the president asked Ukraine for investigations that would have helped him politically while delaying military aid to the country and a White House meeting .
In Clinton 's impeachment trial , witnesses and other sticky issues were decided in the middle of the trial .
Senators decided to establish basic rules and procedures for the trial , which passed 100-0 , and to take up more contentious @ @ @ @ @ @ @ says he will testify in Trump 's impeachment trial if Senate subpoenas him More : Feds recommend prison sentence of up to six months for ex-Trump national security adviser Michael Flynn Schumer pointed to comments made by McConnell signaling that after opening arguments , the Senate could vote and move forward on other issues without additional witnesses .
Pelosi has said she worried the Senate would not hold a fair trial and said she wanted to know the arena the House would operate in before naming house managers , which are lawmakers who @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
McConnell said the resolution outlining impeachment trial rules would be unveiled after the articles are transmitted to the Senate , leaving McConnell and Pelosi at another stalemate .
Sen. John Barrasso , R-Wyo.
, said the House and Senate need to move forward .
“ It ’ s time for Speaker Pelosi to get on with it or get out of the way , ” he said .
After McConnell 's announcement , some Democrats said the best way to move forward was for Pelosi to send over articles and wait until @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` I think our best leverage at this point is likely votes on the floor of the Senate , '' said Sen. Chris Murphy , D-Conn. `` Pelosi 's going to make her own decision , but I think that at this point , our best leverage to get witnesses and document production is inside the confines of the trial . ''
Schumer would not say whether Pelosi should send over articles but pointed out that `` the speaker has said all along that she wanted to see the arena in which she @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a trial , so she could appoint impeachment managers . ''
He said she has `` some idea '' how the trial will work and applauded Pelosi for holding the articles , saying she helped prevent the trial from being dismissed .
The delay allowed for a `` cascade '' of new information that bolsters the case for witnesses to testify , Schumer said .
But several House Democrats backed Pelosi 's decision to continue holding the articles until assurances are given that ensure a fair trial .
“ It ’ s hard @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and that whole kangaroo court over there seriously at this point .
They are in the pocket of President Donald Trump , ” Rep Hakeem Jeffries said .
“ I support her decision to hold the Articles of Impeachment until we get some clarity on what exactly the kangaroo court is going to look like.
” John Bolton , Trump 's former national security adviser and a key figure in the Ukraine controversy , announced Monday he is `` prepared to testify '' in the impeachment trial if he 's subpoenaed .
Bolton @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for weeks about what he knows – may help Democrats in pressuring Republicans to include witnesses in the trial .
Sen. Susan Collins : 'It is inappropriate ' for Mitch McConnell , Democrats to prejudge impeachment trial Asked at the White House on Tuesday whether he ’ d be OK with Bolton testifying in the Senate impeachment trial , Trump left it up to the Senate and his lawyers .
`` That 's going to be up to the lawyers .
It 'll be up to the Senate , and we 'll see @ @ @ @ @ @ @ nothing about what we 're talking about , '' the president said .
If Senate Republicans refuse to subpoena Bolton and other witnesses , `` they would make absolutely clear they are participating in a cover-up , '' Schumer said .
A majority of 51 senators could vote to call for testimony or documents during the trial , something Schumer said Democrats would force .
`` We are telling our Republican colleagues you can run but you can ’ t hide , '' Schumer said Tuesday .
`` There will be votes on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for .
There will be votes on the three sets of documents we ’ ve requested . ''
Several moderate Republicans could hold the key to whether witnesses and new information are part of the trial .
One of them , Sen. Mitt Romney , R-Utah , signaled on Monday that he was open to hearing from Bolton .
`` I 'd like to hear what he has to say , '' Romney said .

McConnell: GOP will move on without Democrats to set rules for Senate impeachment trial of Trump
Show Caption Hide Caption Why a president can be impeached and remain in office Impeaching a U.S. president might not be the be-all-end-all for their career. We explain why this is the case. Just the FAQs, USA TODAY
WASHINGTON – Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell said Tuesday that the GOP-led Senate would move forward on establishing rules for President Donald Trump's impeachment trial without Democrats.
“We have the votes, once the impeachment trial has begun, to pass a resolution essentially, very same, similar” to the one establishing rules passed for the first phase of President Bill Clinton's impeachment trial, McConnell said.
But the announcement wasn't enough to move House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, who has refrained from sending articles of impeachment to the Senate, leaving the trial in a state of limbo. Pelosi, in a letter to Democratic colleagues Tuesday evening, indicated that she would continue to hold articles, saying that she wanted to see a Senate resolution that will outline the procedures for the trial.
"It is important that [McConnell] immediately publish this resolution, so that, as I have said before, we can see the arena in which we will be participating, appoint managers and transmit the articles to the Senate.
McConnell said the resolution would establish "phase one" of the trial, which involves "arguments from the prosecution, arguments from the defense and a period of written questions." A decision on witnesses would be made during the trial, rather than before it began, he said.
Zarif: US denies visa to Iranian Foreign Minister Zarif before UN Security Council meeting
For weeks, McConnell, R-Ky., and Senate Minority Leader Charles Schumer, D-N.Y., attempted to come to an agreement on how the trial should operate. McConnell pointed to precedent, arguing the trial should operate like Clinton's in 1999.
Schumer argued the presentation of witnesses and documents should be agreed to beforehand, saying the Trump administration blocked information and testimony important to impeachment. The information, he said, would shed more light on the allegations at the heart of impeachment: that the president asked Ukraine for investigations that would have helped him politically while delaying military aid to the country and a White House meeting.
In Clinton's impeachment trial, witnesses and other sticky issues were decided in the middle of the trial. Senators decided to establish basic rules and procedures for the trial, which passed 100-0, and to take up more contentious issues later.
John Bolton: Bolton says he will testify in Trump's impeachment trial if Senate subpoenas him
More: Feds recommend prison sentence of up to six months for ex-Trump national security adviser Michael Flynn
Schumer pointed to comments made by McConnell signaling that after opening arguments, the Senate could vote and move forward on other issues without additional witnesses.
Pelosi has said she worried the Senate would not hold a fair trial and said she wanted to know the arena the House would operate in before naming house managers, which are lawmakers who will act as prosecutors in the trial.
McConnell said the resolution outlining impeachment trial rules would be unveiled after the articles are transmitted to the Senate, leaving McConnell and Pelosi at another stalemate.
Sen. John Barrasso, R-Wyo., said the House and Senate need to move forward.
“It’s time for Speaker Pelosi to get on with it or get out of the way,” he said.
After McConnell's announcement, some Democrats said the best way to move forward was for Pelosi to send over articles and wait until the trial to argue for witnesses.
"I think our best leverage at this point is likely votes on the floor of the Senate," said Sen. Chris Murphy, D-Conn. "Pelosi's going to make her own decision, but I think that at this point, our best leverage to get witnesses and document production is inside the confines of the trial."
Schumer would not say whether Pelosi should send over articles but pointed out that "the speaker has said all along that she wanted to see the arena in which she was playing in when it came to a trial, so she could appoint impeachment managers."
He said she has "some idea" how the trial will work and applauded Pelosi for holding the articles, saying she helped prevent the trial from being dismissed. The delay allowed for a "cascade" of new information that bolsters the case for witnesses to testify, Schumer said.
But several House Democrats backed Pelosi's decision to continue holding the articles until assurances are given that ensure a fair trial.
“It’s hard to take Mitch McConnell and Lindsey Graham and that whole kangaroo court over there seriously at this point. They are in the pocket of President Donald Trump,” Rep Hakeem Jeffries said. “I support her decision to hold the Articles of Impeachment until we get some clarity on what exactly the kangaroo court is going to look like.”
John Bolton, Trump's former national security adviser and a key figure in the Ukraine controversy, announced Monday he is "prepared to testify" in the impeachment trial if he's subpoenaed.
Bolton's statement – after he played coy for weeks about what he knows – may help Democrats in pressuring Republicans to include witnesses in the trial.
Sen. Susan Collins: 'It is inappropriate' for Mitch McConnell, Democrats to prejudge impeachment trial
Asked at the White House on Tuesday whether he’d be OK with Bolton testifying in the Senate impeachment trial, Trump left it up to the Senate and his lawyers.
"That's going to be up to the lawyers. It'll be up to the Senate, and we'll see how they feel. He would know nothing about what we're talking about," the president said.
If Senate Republicans refuse to subpoena Bolton and other witnesses, "they would make absolutely clear they are participating in a cover-up," Schumer said.
A majority of 51 senators could vote to call for testimony or documents during the trial, something Schumer said Democrats would force.
"We are telling our Republican colleagues you can run but you can’t hide," Schumer said Tuesday. "There will be votes on the four witnesses we’ve asked for. There will be votes on the three sets of documents we’ve requested."
Several moderate Republicans could hold the key to whether witnesses and new information are part of the trial.
One of them, Sen. Mitt Romney, R-Utah, signaled on Monday that he was open to hearing from Bolton. "I'd like to hear what he has to say," Romney said.
Contributing: Nicholas Wu and Michael Collins


usatoday--2020-01-08--Trump, Tehran step back from war footing after Iran's attack on military bases in Iraq

WASHINGTON – President Donald Trump sought to lower tensions with Iran Wednesday , a day after Tehran fired more than a dozen rockets at Iraqi bases hosting U.S. troops , a move that raised fears the two countries were hurtling toward war .
Trump used a nine-minute televised address to announce new sanctions on Iran and tout the might of U.S. armed services .
But just as remarkable was what his address did not include : a direct threat to respond militarily to Iran ’ s action , which was a retaliation for a U.S. drone strike that killed top @ @ @ @ @ @ @ official told USA TODAY that there were indications that Iran 's attack on the bases was intended to send a message rather than to kill U.S. soldiers .
Iran appears to have fired its missiles into areas of the bases that were unpopulated and where significant damage would be unlikely , said the official , who was not authorized to speak publicly .
Still , Army Gen. Mark Milley , chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff , pushed back on the notion that Iran deliberately sought to minimize damage .
Milley told @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 'to kill personnel , ’ according to The Associated Press .
Flanked by top military officials and members of his Cabinet , including Defense Secretary Mark Esper , the president said there were no casualties from the attack and told Iran he saw a possibility for negotiation .
“ We want you to have a future and a great future – one that you deserve , one of prosperity at home , and harmony with the nations of the world , ” he said .
“ The United States is ready to embrace @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Trump 's speech : President warns Iran but says US 'ready to embrace peace with all who seek it' Iran crisis : What you need to know about rising U.S.-Iran tensions after Soleimani 's death Iranian Foreign Minister Javad Zarif framed the attack as a measure of “ self defense ” in a tweet after the missiles landed .
“ We do not seek escalation or war , but will defend ourselves against any aggression , ” Zarif wrote .
The potential for mass casualties from Iran 's attack was real : There @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Iraqi troops at al Assad air base in Western Iraq , one of the sites Iran targeted .
Precision drone and missile strikes by Iranian-backed forces in September that severely damaged oil production facilities in Saudi Arabia supported the belief that Iran has the capability to strike targets with lethal force .
But given the limited damage , the U.S. official said the attack appeared designed mainly for a domestic audience to show Iranians that the regime was responding to the killing of Soleimani .
Iran has also repeatedly called for the U.S. @ @ @ @ @ @ @ how to hit a target when they want to destroy it , said a second U.S. official with knowledge of Iranian capabilities who was not authorized to speak publicly .
Such an attack would have caused `` grave damage , '' the official said .
It is possible that more moderate elements in the Iranian government are pushing for restraint , the official said .
A senior staff member on Capitol Hill said the Iranians appeared to deliberately choose their targets as a warning , not to inflict major damage .
The dizzying @ @ @ @ @ @ @ critical moment in Trump ’ s presidency , testing a foreign policy that has rested on unwinding President Barack Obama ’ s effort to reach out to Iran through a multination nuclear agreement that offered sanctions relief in exchange for Tehran curbing its nuclear program .
Trump has long argued that agreement was too lenient on Iran .
To underscore the point , Trump vowed Iran would “ never be allowed to have a nuclear weapon ” during his presidency even before he said “ good morning ” in his remarks Wednesday .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ the U.S. out of foreign entanglements but also has repeatedly threatened military action against Iran , said he would encourage NATO allies to `` become much more involved in the Middle East process.
” Tensions between the U.S. and Iran , already on the rise for the months , escalated dramatically after the U.S. killed Soleimani in a drone strike near the Baghdad International Airport last week .
Soleimani was the leader of Iran 's elite Quds Force and one of the country 's most powerful leaders .
Administration officials said Trump ordered @ @ @ @ @ @ @ attacks on Americans in the Middle East and that he presented an imminent threat , though they have not detailed the extent of that planning .
Iran struck back late Tuesday – just before dawn in Iraq – firing more than a dozen missiles at U.S. troops and coalition forces in Erbil and at the al Assad base .
On Capitol Hill , lawmakers expressed relief that Trump did not order further military action .
“ It ’ s still a volatile situation , but I ’ m glad it hasn ’ t @ @ @ @ @ @ @ chance at a resolution , ” said Rep. Ro Khanna , D-Calif. , who had introduced legislation to limit military action .
Sen. Lindsey Graham , R-S.C. , a close ally of the president , said Iran should heed Trump ’ s words .
“ To the Iranian people and the regime : He 's giving you a chance to end this peacefully , ” Graham said .
“ He 's given you a chance for peace and prosperity .
You should take it .
”

John Fritze, Tom Vanden Brook and Michael Collins, USA TODAY

Trump, Tehran step back from war footing after Iran's attack on military bases in Iraq
Show Caption Hide Caption Are we really ready for a World War III? Fears are mounting around the world following the assassination of Iranian General Qasem Soleimani - but is World War 3 about to happen? Just the FAQs, USA TODAY
WASHINGTON – President Donald Trump sought to lower tensions with Iran Wednesday, a day after Tehran fired more than a dozen rockets at Iraqi bases hosting U.S. troops, a move that raised fears the two countries were hurtling toward war.
Trump used a nine-minute televised address to announce new sanctions on Iran and tout the might of U.S. armed services. But just as remarkable was what his address did not include: a direct threat to respond militarily to Iran’s action, which was a retaliation for a U.S. drone strike that killed top Iranian Gen. Qasem Soleimani.
A U.S. official told USA TODAY that there were indications that Iran's attack on the bases was intended to send a message rather than to kill U.S. soldiers. Iran appears to have fired its missiles into areas of the bases that were unpopulated and where significant damage would be unlikely, said the official, who was not authorized to speak publicly.
Still, Army Gen. Mark Milley, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, pushed back on the notion that Iran deliberately sought to minimize damage. Milley told reporters he believed the attacks were designed 'to kill personnel,’ according to The Associated Press.
Flanked by top military officials and members of his Cabinet, including Defense Secretary Mark Esper, the president said there were no casualties from the attack and told Iran he saw a possibility for negotiation.
“We want you to have a future and a great future – one that you deserve, one of prosperity at home, and harmony with the nations of the world,” he said. “The United States is ready to embrace peace with all who seek it.”
Trump's speech: President warns Iran but says US 'ready to embrace peace with all who seek it'
Iran crisis: What you need to know about rising U.S.-Iran tensions after Soleimani's death
Iranian Foreign Minister Javad Zarif framed the attack as a measure of “self defense” in a tweet after the missiles landed.
“We do not seek escalation or war, but will defend ourselves against any aggression,” Zarif wrote.
The potential for mass casualties from Iran's attack was real: There are about 1,500 U.S., coalition and Iraqi troops at al Assad air base in Western Iraq, one of the sites Iran targeted. Precision drone and missile strikes by Iranian-backed forces in September that severely damaged oil production facilities in Saudi Arabia supported the belief that Iran has the capability to strike targets with lethal force.
But given the limited damage, the U.S. official said the attack appeared designed mainly for a domestic audience to show Iranians that the regime was responding to the killing of Soleimani. Iran has also repeatedly called for the U.S. to leave Iraq.
The Iranians know how to hit a target when they want to destroy it, said a second U.S. official with knowledge of Iranian capabilities who was not authorized to speak publicly. Such an attack would have caused "grave damage," the official said. It is possible that more moderate elements in the Iranian government are pushing for restraint, the official said.
A senior staff member on Capitol Hill said the Iranians appeared to deliberately choose their targets as a warning, not to inflict major damage.
The dizzying series of events this week marked a critical moment in Trump’s presidency, testing a foreign policy that has rested on unwinding President Barack Obama’s effort to reach out to Iran through a multination nuclear agreement that offered sanctions relief in exchange for Tehran curbing its nuclear program. Trump has long argued that agreement was too lenient on Iran.
To underscore the point, Trump vowed Iran would “never be allowed to have a nuclear weapon” during his presidency even before he said “good morning” in his remarks Wednesday.
Trump, who has pledged to keep the U.S. out of foreign entanglements but also has repeatedly threatened military action against Iran, said he would encourage NATO allies to "become much more involved in the Middle East process.”
Tensions between the U.S. and Iran, already on the rise for the months, escalated dramatically after the U.S. killed Soleimani in a drone strike near the Baghdad International Airport last week. Soleimani was the leader of Iran's elite Quds Force and one of the country's most powerful leaders.
Administration officials said Trump ordered the drone strike because Soleimani was plotting attacks on Americans in the Middle East and that he presented an imminent threat, though they have not detailed the extent of that planning.
Iran struck back late Tuesday – just before dawn in Iraq – firing more than a dozen missiles at U.S. troops and coalition forces in Erbil and at the al Assad base.
On Capitol Hill, lawmakers expressed relief that Trump did not order further military action.
“It’s still a volatile situation, but I’m glad it hasn’t escalated and there’s still a chance at a resolution,” said Rep. Ro Khanna, D-Calif., who had introduced legislation to limit military action.
Sen. Lindsey Graham, R-S.C., a close ally of the president, said Iran should heed Trump’s words.
“To the Iranian people and the regime: He's giving you a chance to end this peacefully,” Graham said. “He's given you a chance for peace and prosperity. You should take it.”


usatoday--2020-01-08--5 highlights from Donald Trump's televised address on the Iranian missile attacks

WASHINGTON – The president addressed the nation Wednesday from the White House after more than a dozen Iranian missiles struck Iraqi military bases housing U.S. and coalition troops late Tuesday night .
President Donald Trump said no Iraqis or Americans were hurt in the attacks , and he signaled the United States is open to negotiations and a de-escalation of tensions with Iran .
The attacks were Iran 's response to the U.S.-ordered airstrike that killed its top military leader , Qasem Soleimani , late last week .
The Defense Department said the strike was a preventive action to stop @ @ @ @ @ @ @ personnel in the region .
US will impose new sanctions on Iran Trump said Iran would not be permitted to have a nuclear weapon .
`` As we continue to evaluate options in response to Iranian aggression , the United States will immediately impose additional punishing economic sanctions on the Iranian regime , '' Trump said .
`` These powerful sanctions will remain until Iran changes its behavior . ''
He accused Iran of a `` terror spree '' in other Middle East countries , and said , `` Iran has seized ships @ @ @ @ @ @ @ strike on Saudi Arabia and shot down two U.S .
drones . ''
Iran has demanded a lifting of U.S. sanctions .
Read Trump 's full speech : 'Iran will never be allowed to have a nuclear weapon' 'Ready to embrace peace with all who seek it' The president signaled he was open to negotiations with Iran .
He made a similar offer after he pulled out of the multinational nuclear agreement in 2018 .
Iran responded that it had already negotiated a deal that the United States abandoned .
`` Iran appears @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a good thing for all parties concerned and a very good thing for the world , '' Trump said Wednesday .
He said Iran must change its behavior and expressed hope that U.S. economic and military deterrents would motivate Iran to cooperate .
He touted the weight of the U.S. military : `` Our missiles are big , powerful , accurate , lethal and fast .
Under construction are many hypersonic missiles .
`` The fact that we have this great military and equipment , however , does not mean we have to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` We do not want to use it .
American strength , both military and economic , is the best deterrent . ''
Speaking to Iran 's leaders , Trump said , `` We want you to have a future and a great future – one that you deserve , one of prosperity at home and harmony with the nations of the world .
The United States is ready to embrace peace with all who seek it . ''
Nations urged to pull out of nuclear agreement Trump called on the United Kingdom @ @ @ @ @ @ @ China to break off from the 2015 Iran nuclear deal to negotiate a new one .
`` The civilized world must send a clear and unified message to the Iranian regime : Your campaign of terror , murder , mayhem will not be tolerated any longer .
It will not be allowed to go forward . ''
He repeatedly criticized the deal during his presidential race .
He announced in 2018 that the United States was pulling out of the agreement , and he implemented what he calls a `` maximum pressure '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` We must also make a deal that allows Iran to thrive and prosper and take advantage of its enormous untapped potential .
Iran can be a great country , '' Trump said .
Trump linked U.S.-Iranian tensions , as well as Iran-backed aggression , to the nuclear deal negotiated during President Barack Obama 's term .
`` Iran ’ s hostilities substantially increased after the foolish Iran nuclear deal was signed in 2013 , and they were given $ 150 billion , not to mention $ 1.8 billion in cash .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ the United States , they chanted , 'Death to America , ' `` Trump said .
Trump has suggested that the Obama administration gave Iran billions in monetary aid , but the $ 150 billion Iran received was not a gift .
After the nuclear agreement was signed , Iran was allowed to access its own frozen assets , which included the $ 150 billion , and additionally was paid back for a long-standing claim against the United States , which accounted for the $ 1.8 billion .
Major provocations occurred after Trump @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the downing of a U.S. drone .
FACT CHECK : Trump discusses escalation of tensions with Iran in televised speech Trump suggested that the missile attacks launched by Iran on Tuesday were funded by the same money .
`` The missiles fired last night at us and our allies were paid for with the funds made available by the last administration , '' he said .
Obama 's national security adviser Susan Rice pushed back on Trump 's claim in an interview with MSNBC : `` The fact is , that 's another @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Iran has had these sophisticated missiles , they 've been developing their capacity for many , many years , '' she said .
`` To say that that money funded the attack on our personnel and on our base is just the most disgraceful kind of lie.
” US will ask NATO for more involvement in Middle East Trump has complained about what he sees as a disproportionate contribution from the United States in paying for military defense for allies in the North Atlantic Treaty Organization .
Wednesday , he said he would @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Today , I am going to ask NATO to become much more involved in the Middle East process , '' Trump said .
`` Over the last three years , under my leadership , our economy is stronger than ever before , and America has achieved energy independence .
These historic accomplishments changed our strategic priorities . ''
Lawmakers divided : Republicans stand with Trump after Iran remarks while Democrats blame tensions on Soleimani killing

5 highlights from Donald Trump's televised address on the Iranian missile attacks
Show Caption Hide Caption Are we really ready for a World War III? Fears are mounting around the world following the assassination of Iranian General Qasem Soleimani - but is World War 3 about to happen? Just the FAQs, USA TODAY
WASHINGTON – The president addressed the nation Wednesday from the White House after more than a dozen Iranian missiles struck Iraqi military bases housing U.S. and coalition troops late Tuesday night.
President Donald Trump said no Iraqis or Americans were hurt in the attacks, and he signaled the United States is open to negotiations and a de-escalation of tensions with Iran.
The attacks were Iran's response to the U.S.-ordered airstrike that killed its top military leader, Qasem Soleimani, late last week. The Defense Department said the strike was a preventive action to stop "imminent" plans to attack U.S. personnel in the region.
US will impose new sanctions on Iran
Trump said Iran would not be permitted to have a nuclear weapon.
"As we continue to evaluate options in response to Iranian aggression, the United States will immediately impose additional punishing economic sanctions on the Iranian regime," Trump said. "These powerful sanctions will remain until Iran changes its behavior."
He accused Iran of a "terror spree" in other Middle East countries, and said, "Iran has seized ships in international waters, fired an unprovoked strike on Saudi Arabia and shot down two U.S. drones."
Iran has demanded a lifting of U.S. sanctions.
Read Trump's full speech: 'Iran will never be allowed to have a nuclear weapon'
'Ready to embrace peace with all who seek it '
The president signaled he was open to negotiations with Iran. He made a similar offer after he pulled out of the multinational nuclear agreement in 2018. Iran responded that it had already negotiated a deal that the United States abandoned.
"Iran appears to be standing down, which is a good thing for all parties concerned and a very good thing for the world," Trump said Wednesday.
He said Iran must change its behavior and expressed hope that U.S. economic and military deterrents would motivate Iran to cooperate. He touted the weight of the U.S. military: "Our missiles are big, powerful, accurate, lethal and fast. Under construction are many hypersonic missiles.
"The fact that we have this great military and equipment, however, does not mean we have to use it," he continued. "We do not want to use it. American strength, both military and economic, is the best deterrent."
Speaking to Iran's leaders, Trump said, "We want you to have a future and a great future – one that you deserve, one of prosperity at home and harmony with the nations of the world. The United States is ready to embrace peace with all who seek it."
Nations urged to pull out of nuclear agreement
Trump called on the United Kingdom, Germany, France, Russia and China to break off from the 2015 Iran nuclear deal to negotiate a new one.
"The civilized world must send a clear and unified message to the Iranian regime: Your campaign of terror, murder, mayhem will not be tolerated any longer. It will not be allowed to go forward."
He repeatedly criticized the deal during his presidential race. He announced in 2018 that the United States was pulling out of the agreement, and he implemented what he calls a "maximum pressure" campaign against Iran to curb its aggression.
"We must also make a deal that allows Iran to thrive and prosper and take advantage of its enormous untapped potential. Iran can be a great country," Trump said.
Trump blames missile attack funding on Obama administration
Trump linked U.S.-Iranian tensions, as well as Iran-backed aggression, to the nuclear deal negotiated during President Barack Obama's term.
"Iran’s hostilities substantially increased after the foolish Iran nuclear deal was signed in 2013, and they were given $150 billion, not to mention $1.8 billion in cash. Instead of saying 'thank you' to the United States, they chanted, 'Death to America,' " Trump said.
Trump has suggested that the Obama administration gave Iran billions in monetary aid, but the $150 billion Iran received was not a gift. After the nuclear agreement was signed, Iran was allowed to access its own frozen assets, which included the $150 billion, and additionally was paid back for a long-standing claim against the United States, which accounted for the $1.8 billion.
Major provocations occurred after Trump withdrew from the nuclear agreement, including the downing of a U.S. drone.
FACT CHECK: Trump discusses escalation of tensions with Iran in televised speech
Trump suggested that the missile attacks launched by Iran on Tuesday were funded by the same money.
"The missiles fired last night at us and our allies were paid for with the funds made available by the last administration," he said.
Obama's national security adviser Susan Rice pushed back on Trump's claim in an interview with MSNBC: "The fact is, that's another lie," she said.
“Iran has had these sophisticated missiles, they've been developing their capacity for many, many years," she said. "To say that that money funded the attack on our personnel and on our base is just the most disgraceful kind of lie.”
US will ask NATO for more involvement in Middle East
Trump has complained about what he sees as a disproportionate contribution from the United States in paying for military defense for allies in the North Atlantic Treaty Organization. Wednesday, he said he would request more contribution from NATO.
"Today, I am going to ask NATO to become much more involved in the Middle East process," Trump said. "Over the last three years, under my leadership, our economy is stronger than ever before, and America has achieved energy independence. These historic accomplishments changed our strategic priorities."
Lawmakers divided: Republicans stand with Trump after Iran remarks while Democrats blame tensions on Soleimani killing
Contributing: Courtney Subramanian, John Fritze, Michael Collins, Tom Vanden Brook