usatoday--2020-01-10--Gov. Gavin Newsom proposed the largest budget in California history today. Here's what you need to k

California Gov .
Gavin Newsom unveiled his second spending plan on Friday — the largest in the state 's history — offering a detailed look at his top priorities for the coming year .
Plans for the $ 222.2 billion budget include big investments in wildfire preparation and mitigation , housing and homelessness , and the largest investment in K-12 education in history .
Starting with a projected $ 5.6 billion surplus , the new budget proposal is 2.3 % larger than last year 's $ 214.8 billion budget , signed in June , and adds a historic estimated $ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rainy day '' fund .
Speaking from Sacramento and live on Twitter for over two hours , Newsom outlined his hopes and goals for the coming years .
Saying the budget proposal would help set the `` tone and tenor '' of the new year , he added his intention to show constituents what matters most to him , `` so there 's no ambiguity . ''
Newsom also acknowledged that California faces significant challenges , including projections that economic growth will slow in the coming years , but still outlined ambitious initiatives @ @ @ @ @ @ @ progressive policies in the state .
`` The budget is not a what , it is not a why — it is a how document , '' he said .
Lawmakers have until June 15 to pass the budget , which will be implemented in July at the start of the fiscal year .
Here 's a look at top-ticket items Newsom hopes to tackle this year : California 's housing and homelessness crisis continues despite a series of ambitious efforts rolled out last year .
Housing costs continue to rise and roughly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ or in shelters .
Building on $ 1.15 billion previously allocated for local governments , this proposal plans for an additional $ 1 billion , including a new California Access to Housing and Services Fund , a $ 750 million investment in new affordable housing units and subsidies for rentals .
On top of last year 's $ 1.75 billion investment to increase housing supply , Newsom said an additional $ 500 million will be available annually from California ’ s housing tax credit program .
Two days before the budget briefing , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the use of state-owned land `` on a short-term emergency basis '' for housing and the homeless .
Empty health-care facilities , Caltrans property alongside highways and roads , and unused fairgrounds could all be made available .
” Homelessness is a national crisis , one that ’ s spreading across the West Coast and cities across the country , ” Newsom said in a statement with the announcement on Wednesday .
“ The state of California is treating it as a real emergency — because it is one.
” The governor also @ @ @ @ @ @ @ utilize the Medi-Cal Healthier California for All initiative to address mental illness , and develop a task force to improve and strengthen the behavioral health system .
Newsom 's budget also continues to ramp up funding for schools that he says are struggling to keep up .
The budget includes historic levels of investments , continuing the growth in funding for schools that has increased roughly $ 7,200 per student over the past decade .
Newsom 's proposal includes $ 900 million for training teachers and creating new programs that `` improve the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is `` foundational to improving student outcomes . ''
Also included are $ 300 million one-time grants for low-performing schools and a 40 % boost in school nutrition program funding .
As the state faces wildfires that are increasing in number and intensity , Newsom is hoping to add 555 full-time firefighters over five years , a 12 % increase over the 4,800 currently employed .
Building on last year 's $ 1 billion for emergency response , this year the budget proposal also includes $ 100 million to bolster homes in fire-prone @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of Light Detection and Ranging data , and fund the creation of a new Wildfire Forecast and Threat Intelligence Integration Center .
Newsom said the state is also working on improving its early-alert system for earthquakes and investing in flood protection , to be funded by the $ 2 billion budget for emergency services .
California soon could be the first to create a state-owned generic drug label .
Called `` CalRx , '' Newsom announced his administration is working to make prescription drugs available and affordable to all Californians .
While scant @ @ @ @ @ @ @ state is already in active negotiations with major purchasers and that there will be a `` detailed spring proposal '' on the plan that will require legislative support .
The budget also includes plans to provide Medi-Cal coverage to California residents over the age of 65 , including undocumented immigrants .
“ There is no question that Governor Newsom is California ’ s health and human services governor , '' California Health and Human Services Agency Secretary Dr. Mark Ghaly said in a statement .
`` The governor ’ s budget makes bold @ @ @ @ @ @ @ services priorities including quality , affordable health care regardless of your age or income ; transformed health care services through the Medi-Cal program ; lower prescription drug costs ; integrated behavioral health care services ; and support for those who struggle with homelessness . ''
Over the next five years , the Newsom proposes a $ 12 billion climate budget including a newly proposed `` Climate Catalyst Fund '' that will invest in small businesses and emerging markets for new technologies that help California achieve its ambitious climate goals .
Administered by the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ budget proposes capitalizing the fund with $ 1 billion over the next four years to finance projects like new low-carbon transportation options , and sustainable agriculture .
• Newsom shared that he 's set the goal of closing a state prison between 2022 and 2024 , and the state will work to reduce the prison population in order to meet that goal .
Meanwhile , he 's planning for new prison policies modeled on Norwegian prisons , which are less punitive and more rehabilitative .
The proposal includes an initiative that would group @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in `` campus-style environments '' where they will have expanded access to programs , educational opportunities , and mentorship , new investments into academic programs for all prisoners , and partnerships through the California State University system .
• California could become the first state to have its own version of the federal Consumer Financial Protection Bureau .
The budget includes a plan to compensate for the Trump Administration 's rollback of federal protections with a new California Consumer Financial Protection Law .
• Along with establishing a new Department of Better Jobs @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the latest statewide boost in the minimum wage to $ 13 per hour , which started this month .
• California 's Paid Family Leave was expanded from six to eight weeks in the last budget , and this year Newsom hopes to expand job protections so more Californians can access that benefit .
• A $ 53 billion allocation will address statewide infrastructure projects , doled out over the next five years .
The investments are likely to go toward sustainable projects that help California achieve its climate goals .

Gov. Gavin Newsom proposed the largest budget in California history today. Here's what you need to know
California Gov. Gavin Newsom unveiled his second spending plan on Friday — the largest in the state's history — offering a detailed look at his top priorities for the coming year. Plans for the $222.2 billion budget include big investments in wildfire preparation and mitigation, housing and homelessness, and the largest investment in K-12 education in history.
Starting with a projected $5.6 billion surplus, the new budget proposal is 2.3% larger than last year's $214.8 billion budget, signed in June, and adds a historic estimated $18 billion to California's so-called "rainy day" fund.
Speaking from Sacramento and live on Twitter for over two hours, Newsom outlined his hopes and goals for the coming years. Saying the budget proposal would help set the "tone and tenor" of the new year, he added his intention to show constituents what matters most to him, "so there's no ambiguity."
Newsom also acknowledged that California faces significant challenges, including projections that economic growth will slow in the coming years, but still outlined ambitious initiatives to both tackle issues and advance new progressive policies in the state.
"The budget is not a what, it is not a why — it is a how document," he said.
Lawmakers have until June 15 to pass the budget, which will be implemented in July at the start of the fiscal year.
Here's a look at top-ticket items Newsom hopes to tackle this year:
Housing and homelessness
California's housing and homelessness crisis continues despite a series of ambitious efforts rolled out last year. Housing costs continue to rise and roughly 150,000 Californians are living on the streets or in shelters.
Building on $1.15 billion previously allocated for local governments, this proposal plans for an additional $1 billion, including a new California Access to Housing and Services Fund, a $750 million investment in new affordable housing units and subsidies for rentals.
Homelessness in Los Angeles is still a growing problem Despite efforts to reduce homelessness in Los Angeles, new numbers show the issue there has hit a new high. Video provided by Newsy Newslook
On top of last year's $1.75 billion investment to increase housing supply, Newsom said an additional $500 million will be available annually from California’s housing tax credit program.
Two days before the budget briefing, Newsom issued an executive order to expand the use of state-owned land "on a short-term emergency basis" for housing and the homeless. Empty health-care facilities, Caltrans property alongside highways and roads, and unused fairgrounds could all be made available.
”Homelessness is a national crisis, one that’s spreading across the West Coast and cities across the country,” Newsom said in a statement with the announcement on Wednesday. “The state of California is treating it as a real emergency — because it is one.”
The governor also wants to transform the Medi-Cal system and utilize the Medi-Cal Healthier California for All initiative to address mental illness, and develop a task force to improve and strengthen the behavioral health system.
K-12 education
Newsom's budget also continues to ramp up funding for schools that he says are struggling to keep up. The budget includes historic levels of investments, continuing the growth in funding for schools that has increased roughly $7,200 per student over the past decade.
Newsom's proposal includes $900 million for training teachers and creating new programs that "improve the teacher workforce," which he says is "foundational to improving student outcomes."
Also included are $300 million one-time grants for low-performing schools and a 40% boost in school nutrition program funding.
Wildfires and natural disasters
As the state faces wildfires that are increasing in number and intensity, Newsom is hoping to add 555 full-time firefighters over five years, a 12% increase over the 4,800 currently employed.
Building on last year's $1 billion for emergency response, this year the budget proposal also includes $100 million to bolster homes in fire-prone areas, plans to increase the use of Light Detection and Ranging data, and fund the creation of a new Wildfire Forecast and Threat Intelligence Integration Center.
Newsom said the state is also working on improving its early-alert system for earthquakes and investing in flood protection, to be funded by the $2 billion budget for emergency services.
Health benefits
California soon could be the first to create a state-owned generic drug label. Called "CalRx," Newsom announced his administration is working to make prescription drugs available and affordable to all Californians. While scant on details, he announced that the state is already in active negotiations with major purchasers and that there will be a "detailed spring proposal" on the plan that will require legislative support.
The budget also includes plans to provide Medi-Cal coverage to California residents over the age of 65, including undocumented immigrants.
“There is no question that Governor Newsom is California’s health and human services governor," California Health and Human Services Agency Secretary Dr. Mark Ghaly said in a statement. "The governor’s budget makes bold investments to advance key health and human services priorities including quality, affordable health care regardless of your age or income; transformed health care services through the Medi-Cal program; lower prescription drug costs; integrated behavioral health care services; and support for those who struggle with homelessness."
Climate change
Over the next five years, the Newsom proposes a $12 billion climate budget including a newly proposed "Climate Catalyst Fund" that will invest in small businesses and emerging markets for new technologies that help California achieve its ambitious climate goals.
Administered by the Infrastructure and Economic Development Bank, the budget proposes capitalizing the fund with $1 billion over the next four years to finance projects like new low-carbon transportation options, and sustainable agriculture.
Other key areas of interest


usatoday--2020-01-10--Pentagon launched second attack on an Iranian militant the same day it killed Soleimani

WASHINGTON – The Pentagon launched a separate attack on a key Iranian military leader in Yemen the same day it killed Maj. Gen. Qasem Soleimani , according to a U.S. official .
The airstrike on Jan. 2 targeted Abdul Reza Shahlai , a commander of the Quds Force , according to the official who was not authorized to comment publicly .
The mission was first reported by the Washington Post .
Shahlai was not killed .
`` We have seen the report of a January 2 airstrike in Yemen , which is long-understood as a safe space for terrorists and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' Navy Cdr .
Rebecca Rebarich , a Pentagon spokeswoman , said in a statement .
`` The Department of Defense does not discuss alleged operations in the region . ''
Navy Capt .
Bill Urban , a spokesman for U.S. Central Command , declined to comment .
The attempt to kill Shahlai on the same day a drone targeted Soleimani would have decapitated key leadership for the Quds Force , an elite wing of Iran 's Revolutionary Guard .
That organization oversees Iran 's ties to armed proxy groups in the region @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Popular Mobilization Forces in Iraq , militias with whom Soleimani was holding meetings when he was killed in a U.S. strike near Baghdad 's main airport .
In a strike that Tehran said was in retaliation for killing Soleimani , Iran fired more than a dozen missiles at bases in Iraq housing U.S. troops .
U.S. officials said there were no casualties and only minimal damage .

Pentagon launched second attack on an Iranian militant the same day it killed Soleimani
Show Caption Hide Caption Mike Pompeo announces new Iran sanctions U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo introduces new sanctions in hopes of crippling the Iranian regime. USA TODAY
WASHINGTON – The Pentagon launched a separate attack on a key Iranian military leader in Yemen the same day it killed Maj. Gen. Qasem Soleimani, according to a U.S. official.
The airstrike on Jan. 2 targeted Abdul Reza Shahlai, a commander of the Quds Force, according to the official who was not authorized to comment publicly. The mission was first reported by the Washington Post. Shahlai was not killed.
"We have seen the report of a January 2 airstrike in Yemen, which is long-understood as a safe space for terrorists and other adversaries to the United States," Navy Cdr. Rebecca Rebarich, a Pentagon spokeswoman, said in a statement. "The Department of Defense does not discuss alleged operations in the region."
Navy Capt. Bill Urban, a spokesman for U.S. Central Command, declined to comment.
The attempt to kill Shahlai on the same day a drone targeted Soleimani would have decapitated key leadership for the Quds Force, an elite wing of Iran's Revolutionary Guard. That organization oversees Iran's ties to armed proxy groups in the region such as Hezbollah in Lebanon and the Popular Mobilization Forces in Iraq, militias with whom Soleimani was holding meetings when he was killed in a U.S. strike near Baghdad's main airport.
In a strike that Tehran said was in retaliation for killing Soleimani, Iran fired more than a dozen missiles at bases in Iraq housing U.S. troops. U.S. officials said there were no casualties and only minimal damage.


usatoday--2020-01-10--Trump on 'Megxit': 'I don't think this should be happening to' the queen

WASHINGTON – President Donald Trump weighed in on `` Megxit '' , expressing condolences for Queen Elizabeth II after news quickly spread that her grandson and his wife would `` step back '' from their roles as senior members of the British royal family .
`` I think it 's sad .
I do .
I think it 's sad .
[ The Queen 's ] a great woman , '' Trump said in an exclusive interview on Fox News when asked to give `` advice for some of the rogue royals . ''
`` She 's never made a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , she 's had like a flawless time , '' the president continued .
`` You think Harry should go back , come back [ to the family ] ? ''
Fox News host Laura Ingraham pushed .
More : Everything we know about Prince Harry and Duchess Meghan 's historic royal announcement Trump answered , `` Well , I think , you know , I do n't want to get into the whole thing .
But I find it , I just have such respect for the Queen .
I do n't @ @ @ @ @ @ @ . ''
Prince Harry and Duchess Meghan announced earlier this week that they will be stepping back as senior royals and splitting their time between the United Kingdom and North America .
`` We intend to step back as ‘ senior ’ members of the Royal Family and work to become financially independent , while continuing to fully support Her Majesty The Queen , '' the couple said in an announcement Wednesday issued by Buckingham Palace .
It appeared those plans were announced with little advance notice , judging from the careful statement @ @ @ @ @ @ @ There were reports Harry issued his announcement Wednesday in defiance of the queen 's orders .
Trump has offered high praise to Queen Elizabeth II before , calling her “ a tremendous woman ” and leaving little doubt over the years that he is a big fan during their interactions and encounters .
Harry and Meghan have yet to voice exactly why `` they are stepping back '' but the decision comes after the couple 's vocal frustration with British media coverage of their family , including lawsuits against three British tabloids for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ invasion of privacy and phone hacking .
Britain ’ s national news agency , Press Association , reported that the queen had ordered officials representing the monarch , Charles , Prince William , and Harry and Meghan to meet and find `` workable solutions '' within `` days not weeks . ''

Trump on 'Megxit': 'I don't think this should be happening to' the queen
Show Caption Hide Caption Prince Harry, Duchess Meghan are 'stepping back' as senior royals Prince Harry and Duchess Meghan of Sussex announced after their royal time-off they plan to split time between North America and the United Kingdom. USA TODAY
WASHINGTON – President Donald Trump weighed in on "Megxit", expressing condolences for Queen Elizabeth II after news quickly spread that her grandson and his wife would "step back" from their roles as senior members of the British royal family.
"I think it's sad. I do. I think it's sad. [The Queen's] a great woman," Trump said in an exclusive interview on Fox News when asked to give "advice for some of the rogue royals."
"She's never made a mistake if you look. I mean, she's had like a flawless time," the president continued.
"You think Harry should go back, come back [to the family]?" Fox News host Laura Ingraham pushed.
More: Everything we know about Prince Harry and Duchess Meghan's historic royal announcement
Trump answered, "Well, I think, you know, I don't want to get into the whole thing. But I find it, I just have such respect for the Queen. I don't think this should be happening to her."
Prince Harry and Duchess Meghan announced earlier this week that they will be stepping back as senior royals and splitting their time between the United Kingdom and North America.
"We intend to step back as ‘senior’ members of the Royal Family and work to become financially independent, while continuing to fully support Her Majesty The Queen," the couple said in an announcement Wednesday issued by Buckingham Palace.
It appeared those plans were announced with little advance notice, judging from the careful statement issued in response by Buckingham Palace. There were reports Harry issued his announcement Wednesday in defiance of the queen's orders.
A statement from Buckingham Palace regarding The Duke and Duchess of Sussex. https://t.co/1qtTEHiIq6 — The Royal Family (@RoyalFamily) January 8, 2020
Trump has offered high praise to Queen Elizabeth II before, calling her “a tremendous woman” and leaving little doubt over the years that he is a big fan during their interactions and encounters.
Harry and Meghan have yet to voice exactly why "they are stepping back" but the decision comes after the couple's vocal frustration with British media coverage of their family, including lawsuits against three British tabloids for alleged mistreatment, including copyright infringement, invasion of privacy and phone hacking.
Britain’s national news agency, Press Association, reported that the queen had ordered officials representing the monarch, Charles, Prince William, and Harry and Meghan to meet and find "workable solutions" within "days not weeks."
Contributing: Maria Puente, USA TODAY


usatoday--2020-01-10--Pelosi says House will send Trump impeachment articles to Senate next week, setting stage for trial

WASHINGTON – House Speaker Nancy Pelosi said Friday that the House will send articles of impeachment against President Donald Trump to the Senate next week , paving the way for a trial to begin .
Pelosi sent a letter to fellow lawmakers announcing she asked the Judiciary Committee to draft a resolution for floor debate next week that would name the House managers , who will serve as prosecutors in a Senate trial .
She said she would consult with the rank-and-file Democrats on Tuesday about how to proceed .
Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell , R-Ky. , has said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a trial once he receives the articles from the House .
Pelosi has delayed sending the articles , which accuse Trump of abuse of power and obstruction of Congress , saying she wanted to learn more about how the Senate would conduct its trial before naming the lawmakers to serve as managers .
She has said the Senate arena could help determine which lawmakers and how many to assign as managers .
Garnering the votes to remove Trump appears unlikely in the Senate , where Republicans outnumber Democrats 53 to 47 .
Removal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the senators .
Pelosi ’ s announcement ends a nearly month-long standoff between her and McConnell .
Both leaders appeared to dig in their heels further over the last week as Pelosi demanded more information about the Senate trial and McConnell adamantly refused to release a resolution that would outline the proceedings .
`` Leader McConnell 's tactics are a clear indication of the fear that he and President Trump have regarding the facts of the President 's violations for which he was impeached , '' Pelosi said in her letter .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ s announcement as a loss for Democrats , pointing out that just one day earlier , the speaker told reporters she wanted more information about the trial before transmitting articles to the upper chamber .
“ Pelosi lost .
Again , ” House Republican Whip Steve Scalise , R-La.
, said on Twitter .
“ She 's caving and sending her Articles of Impeachment to the Senate without getting a single one of her absurd demands because her own party got fed up with her games.
” Democrats , meanwhile , detailed the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , including forcing senators to face questions about witnesses and allowing time for a series of reports to raise new questions about the Trump administration ’ s conduct with Ukraine .
Former national security adviser John Bolton , who declined an invitation to testify in the House inquiry , said Monday he would testify under subpoena in the Senate trial .
`` The Senate does not appear to have a fair , open trial – like as the Constitution requires , with swearing to be impartial , ” said House Majority Leader Steny @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a Constitutional law professor at Harvard who has consulted with House Democrats in their impeachment inquiry , said Pelosi “ achieved a great deal by waiting.
” “ McConnell ’ s game has been exposed , Bolton has invited a subpoena , more damning evidence has surfaced , ” he said .
“ The readiness is all.
” But Sen. Chuck Grassley , R-Iowa , said Pelosi 's delay threw the Senate 's schedule into chaos and that the trial would delay consideration of a trade agreement with Mexico and Canada .
“ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ into unnecessary chaos with this pointless delay , '' Grassley said .
`` We ’ ve had three needless weeks of uncertainty and confusion , causing even more division . ''
Pelosi asked Friday for Judiciary Chairman Jerry Nadler , D-N.Y. , to draft a resolution naming the managers and transmit the articles to the Senate .
The House already laid the groundwork for floor debate on the resolution authorizing and appointing the impeachment managers , as part of the rule for debating the articles of impeachment that were approved Dec. 18 .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ to the floor at any time for 10 minutes of debate .
The House accused Trump of abusing the power of his office by asking Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky to investigate his political rival , former Vice President Joe Biden , withholding a White House meeting and $ 391 million in military aid .
The House also accused Trump of obstructing Congress by directing aides and agencies to defy subpoenas for documents and testimony , although some officials did testify .
Trump and congressional Republicans have argued he had the authority to set @ @ @ @ @ @ @ corruption in Ukraine .
Trump has said he expects to be exonerated in the Senate trial .

Bart Jansen, Christal Hayes and Nicholas Wu, USA TODAY

Pelosi says House will send Trump impeachment articles to Senate next week, setting stage for trial soon
Show Caption Hide Caption Pelosi: 'Soon' will transmit impeachment to Senate House Speaker Nancy Pelosi said she will "probably" soon transmit the articles of impeachment against President Donald Trump to the Senate. Pelosi says she has no plans to hold onto the articles indefinitely. (Jan. 9) AP
WASHINGTON – House Speaker Nancy Pelosi said Friday that the House will send articles of impeachment against President Donald Trump to the Senate next week, paving the way for a trial to begin.
Pelosi sent a letter to fellow lawmakers announcing she asked the Judiciary Committee to draft a resolution for floor debate next week that would name the House managers, who will serve as prosecutors in a Senate trial. She said she would consult with the rank-and-file Democrats on Tuesday about how to proceed.
Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., has said he plans to move quickly to begin a trial once he receives the articles from the House.
Pelosi has delayed sending the articles, which accuse Trump of abuse of power and obstruction of Congress, saying she wanted to learn more about how the Senate would conduct its trial before naming the lawmakers to serve as managers. She has said the Senate arena could help determine which lawmakers and how many to assign as managers.
Garnering the votes to remove Trump appears unlikely in the Senate, where Republicans outnumber Democrats 53 to 47. Removal from office would require a two-thirds vote of the senators.
Pelosi’s announcement ends a nearly month-long standoff between her and McConnell. Both leaders appeared to dig in their heels further over the last week as Pelosi demanded more information about the Senate trial and McConnell adamantly refused to release a resolution that would outline the proceedings.
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
"Leader McConnell's tactics are a clear indication of the fear that he and President Trump have regarding the facts of the President's violations for which he was impeached," Pelosi said in her letter.
Republicans were quick to categorize Pelosi’s announcement as a loss for Democrats, pointing out that just one day earlier, the speaker told reporters she wanted more information about the trial before transmitting articles to the upper chamber.
“Pelosi lost. Again,” House Republican Whip Steve Scalise, R-La., said on Twitter. “She's caving and sending her Articles of Impeachment to the Senate without getting a single one of her absurd demands because her own party got fed up with her games.”
Democrats, meanwhile, detailed the gains Pelosi made by delaying the articles, including forcing senators to face questions about witnesses and allowing time for a series of reports to raise new questions about the Trump administration’s conduct with Ukraine. Former national security adviser John Bolton, who declined an invitation to testify in the House inquiry, said Monday he would testify under subpoena in the Senate trial.
"The Senate does not appear to have a fair, open trial – like as the Constitution requires, with swearing to be impartial,” said House Majority Leader Steny Hoyer, D-Md.
Laurence Tribe, a Constitutional law professor at Harvard who has consulted with House Democrats in their impeachment inquiry, said Pelosi “achieved a great deal by waiting.”
“McConnell’s game has been exposed, Bolton has invited a subpoena, more damning evidence has surfaced,” he said. “The readiness is all.”
But Sen. Chuck Grassley, R-Iowa, said Pelosi's delay threw the Senate's schedule into chaos and that the trial would delay consideration of a trade agreement with Mexico and Canada.
“Speaker Pelosi threw the United States Congress into unnecessary chaos with this pointless delay," Grassley said. "We’ve had three needless weeks of uncertainty and confusion, causing even more division."
Pelosi asked Friday for Judiciary Chairman Jerry Nadler, D-N.Y., to draft a resolution naming the managers and transmit the articles to the Senate. The House already laid the groundwork for floor debate on the resolution authorizing and appointing the impeachment managers, as part of the rule for debating the articles of impeachment that were approved Dec. 18. That rule said the resolution could come to the floor at any time for 10 minutes of debate.
The House accused Trump of abusing the power of his office by asking Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky to investigate his political rival, former Vice President Joe Biden, withholding a White House meeting and $391 million in military aid. The House also accused Trump of obstructing Congress by directing aides and agencies to defy subpoenas for documents and testimony, although some officials did testify.
Trump and congressional Republicans have argued he had the authority to set foreign policy and was justified in fighting corruption in Ukraine. Trump has said he expects to be exonerated in the Senate trial.


usatoday--2020-01-10--'I left parts of my body in Iraq:' Duckworth responds to Rep. Doug Collins

Duckworth slams Rep. Collins who said Dems 'in love with terrorists' Senator Tammy Duckworth slammed Rep. Doug Collins for saying @ @ @ @ @ with terrorists . ''

Duckworth slams Rep. Collins who said Dems 'in love with terrorists'
Senator Tammy Duckworth slammed Rep. Doug Collins for saying Democrats were "in love with terrorists."
USA TODAY


OnPolitics: We're back!

Happy New Year !
Belatedly .
But still .
We mean it .
We 're back , and there 's a LOT to talk about .
It felt like the nation held its collective breath Tuesday night as missiles launched from Iran landed at an Iraqi military base that housed U.S. troops .
The escalation in tensions with Tehran came several days after Iranian major Qasem Soleimani was killed in a U.S. airstrike in Iraq .
President Donald Trump said Soleimani was planning an imminent attack on the U.S. and his death was met with rage from Iran 's leaders @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a Ukrainian plane leaving Tehran crashed and killed all 176 people on board .
Iran has blamed the crash on engine failure .
Trump said Thursday , `` It was flying in a pretty rough neighborhood .
Somebody could have made a mistake . ''
But later in the day , Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau cited intelligence reports that stated a surface-to-air missile downed the plane .
More than 60 Canadians were among those killed .
The violence de-escalated as the week continued , but while addressing the nation Wednesday , Trump @ @ @ @ @ @ @ These powerful sanctions will remain until Iran changes its behavior , '' he said .
How did the country feel about all of this ?
A USA TODAY/Suffolk University poll found a majority believed Trump 's behavior with Iran was `` reckless . ''
Congress also entered the debate Thursday , with the House passing a resolution aimed at curbing Trump 's ability to wage war against Iran .
We 're still at a standoff .
Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell announced Tuesday that he has the votes to proceed with an impeachment @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
But he wo n't hold that vote until the Senate gets the articles of impeachment from the House .
Even Senate Democrats are getting a bit antsy .
Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi says she 'll send the articles to the Senate `` soon . ''
But she wants McConnell to publish the resolution about the rules , so `` we can see the arena in which we will be participating . ''
TL ; DR : We still do n't know when there will be a Senate impeachment trial .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ in New Hampshire , according to the latest polling .
• As Iran jolts the presidential race , Joe Biden and Bernie Sanders look to seize the moment .
• Michael Bloomberg and Donald Trump are spending dueling millions on Super Bowl ads .
• Want to learn more about where the Democratic candidates stand on issues ?
We 've got you covered .
As always , thanks for reading .
Be nice to the newbies at the gym this month , OK ?
— Annah Aschbrenner P.S .
Are you looking to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in Iowa ahead of the first-in-the-nation caucuses ?
Our friends at the Des Moines Register have just the newsletter for you .
You can check out a preview and sign up here to fulfill all of your Iowa caucus needs .

OnPolitics: We're back!
Happy New Year! Belatedly. But still. We mean it.
We're back, and there's a LOT to talk about.
It felt like the nation held its collective breath Tuesday night as missiles launched from Iran landed at an Iraqi military base that housed U.S. troops. The escalation in tensions with Tehran came several days after Iranian major Qasem Soleimani was killed in a U.S. airstrike in Iraq. President Donald Trump said Soleimani was planning an imminent attack on the U.S. and his death was met with rage from Iran's leaders.
Shortly after the missile attack, a Ukrainian plane leaving Tehran crashed and killed all 176 people on board. Iran has blamed the crash on engine failure. Trump said Thursday, "It was flying in a pretty rough neighborhood. Somebody could have made a mistake." But later in the day, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau cited intelligence reports that stated a surface-to-air missile downed the plane. More than 60 Canadians were among those killed.
The violence de-escalated as the week continued, but while addressing the nation Wednesday, Trump promised new sanctions against Iran. "These powerful sanctions will remain until Iran changes its behavior," he said.
How did the country feel about all of this? A USA TODAY/Suffolk University poll found a majority believed Trump's behavior with Iran was "reckless." Congress also entered the debate Thursday, with the House passing a resolution aimed at curbing Trump's ability to wage war against Iran.
This week in Impeachment
We're still at a standoff.
Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell announced Tuesday that he has the votes to proceed with an impeachment trial without making a decision on witnesses. But he won't hold that vote until the Senate gets the articles of impeachment from the House.
Even Senate Democrats are getting a bit antsy.
Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi says she'll send the articles to the Senate "soon." But she wants McConnell to publish the resolution about the rules, so "we can see the arena in which we will be participating."
TL;DR: We still don't know when there will be a Senate impeachment trial.
This week in 2020
As always, thanks for reading. Be nice to the newbies at the gym this month, OK? — Annah Aschbrenner
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usatoday--2020-01-11--Election 2020: Here's who qualified for the January debate in Iowa

WASHINGTON – The first Democratic primary debate of the year will also be the smallest — and the least diverse .
Tuesday ’ s debate , hosted by CNN and the Des Moines Register , is being held at Drake University in Des Moines , Iowa , at 9 p.m .
ET .
It is the last primary Democratic debate before the Iowa caucuses on Feb. 3 .
This month 's debate qualifications required candidates to have at least 225,000 individual donations .
In addition , candidates needed to get 5 % in at least four national or early-voting state @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in two early-voting state polls , which include Iowa , New Hampshire , Nevada and South Carolina .
Candidates had until the end of the day Friday to meet them Only six candidates out of the 13 Democrats running made it to the debate stage : The debate qualification thresholds have previously been criticized by some candidates who did n't make the cut , including Sen. Cory Booker of New Jersey and entrepreneur Andrew Yang .
Yang last month called on the Democratic National Committee to commission polls in an effort to increase @ @ @ @ @ @ @ debate .
The DNC declined .
Steyer looked like he would miss the stage but qualified Thursday , the day before the deadline , after two Fox News state polls , one for Nevada and the other for South Carolina , were released .
Steyer was in double digits in both states after heavily investing in advertising in both .
More : What you need to know before you vote in 2020 Although the 2020 Democratic field continues to winnow — Marianne Williamson ended her campaign Thursday — there were still several candidates @ @ @ @ @ @ @ debate stage .
No candidates of color made it to the debate stage , including Booker , Yang , Rep. Tulsi Gabbard of Hawaii and former Massachusetts Gov .
Deval Patrick .
Yang was the only non-white candidate who was close to making it to the stage , but still needed three polls to qualify .
He also was the only non-white candidate on the December debate stage .
Is Steyer surging ?
: Businessman qualifies for January debate after polls show him in top 3 in 2 states Other candidates who did @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Michael Bennet , former New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg and former Rep. John Delaney .
The next debate is on Feb. 7 at Saint Anselm College ’ s Sullivan Arena in New Hampshire , just four days before the New Hampshire primary .

Election 2020: Here's who qualified for the January debate in Iowa
WASHINGTON – The first Democratic primary debate of the year will also be the smallest — and the least diverse.
Tuesday’s debate, hosted by CNN and the Des Moines Register, is being held at Drake University in Des Moines, Iowa, at 9 p.m. ET. It is the last primary Democratic debate before the Iowa caucuses on Feb. 3.
This month's debate qualifications required candidates to have at least 225,000 individual donations. In addition, candidates needed to get 5% in at least four national or early-voting state polls, or at least 7% in two early-voting state polls, which include Iowa, New Hampshire, Nevada and South Carolina. Candidates had until the end of the day Friday to meet them
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
Only six candidates out of the 13 Democrats running made it to the debate stage:
The debate qualification thresholds have previously been criticized by some candidates who didn't make the cut, including Sen. Cory Booker of New Jersey and entrepreneur Andrew Yang. Yang last month called on the Democratic National Committee to commission polls in an effort to increase the diversity of participants in the upcoming debate. The DNC declined.
Steyer looked like he would miss the stage but qualified Thursday, the day before the deadline, after two Fox News state polls, one for Nevada and the other for South Carolina, were released. Steyer was in double digits in both states after heavily investing in advertising in both.
More: What you need to know before you vote in 2020
2020 candidates on the issues: Here's where the Democrats running for president stand on gun control, immigration and more
Who didn't make the debate stage?
Although the 2020 Democratic field continues to winnow — Marianne Williamson ended her campaign Thursday — there were still several candidates who won't be on Tuesday's debate stage.
No candidates of color made it to the debate stage, including Booker, Yang, Rep. Tulsi Gabbard of Hawaii and former Massachusetts Gov. Deval Patrick.
Yang was the only non-white candidate who was close to making it to the stage, but still needed three polls to qualify. He also was the only non-white candidate on the December debate stage.
Is Steyer surging?: Businessman qualifies for January debate after polls show him in top 3 in 2 states
Other candidates who didn't make the debate stage include Sen. Michael Bennet, former New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg and former Rep. John Delaney.
The next debate is on Feb. 7 at Saint Anselm College’s Sullivan Arena in New Hampshire, just four days before the New Hampshire primary.


usatoday--2020-01-11--FBI outlines surveillance reforms after searing rebuke from court, DOJ inspector general

WASHINGTON —FBI Director Christopher Wray outlined a series of proposed reforms Friday aimed at bolstering public confidence in sensitive surveillance operations in wake of a damning report that revealed flaws in how the bureau handled wiretap applications for a former Trump campaign aide .
In a filing ordered by the chief judge of the secretive Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Court , Wray pledged that the bureau would overhaul its training program for agents and lawyers to ensure that information used to support future surveillance applications is complete and properly vetted .
The plan comes more than a month after the Justice @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in requests to wiretap former Trump campaign foreign policy adviser Carter Page in 2016 and 2017 .
The surveillance of Page , whom the FBI believed was conspiring with the Russian government , was conducted as the FBI investigated Russia 's efforts to meddle in the 2016 presidential election .
`` The FBI has the utmost respect for this court , and deeply regrets the errors and omissions identified by the ( inspector general ) , '' Wray wrote , adding that the Justice watchdog 's report described `` conduct that is unacceptable @ @ @ @ @ @ @ institution . ''
Wray described the surveillance authority provided by the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act ( FISA ) , which is approved by the court , as `` an indispensable tool in national security investigations . ''
`` In recognition of our duty of candor to the court and our responsibilities to the American people , the FBI is committed to working with the court and ( Justice Department ) to ensure the accuracy and completeness of the FISA process , '' Wray wrote .
The centerpiece of the training regimen , as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the proposed creation of a `` case study '' based on the inspector general 's findings in the Page surveillance applications .
Wray ordered that the training program be created by April 30 and is requiring that all agents and lawyers who staff FISA complete the training by June 30 .
`` I am determined that operational personnel understand , holistically , what occurred during the activities reflected in the ( inspector general 's ) report , and that , in addition , personnel working on FISA applications understand the importance of rigor @ @ @ @ @ @ @ application process , '' the director wrote .
After the inspector general 's report was released , Judge Rosemary Collyer , chief judge of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Court which considers the sensitive wiretap applications , rebuked the FBI and asserted it had misled the court when seeking permission to wiretap Page .
`` The frequency with which representations made by FBI personnel turned out to be unsupported or contradicted by information in their possession , and with which they withheld information detrimental to their case , calls into question whether information contained @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' Judge Rosemary Collyer wrote .
Searing IG report : FBI wiretap of Trump campaign aide was riddled with errors , but Russia probe was legally justified , IG report finds Wiretap trouble : A new blow to the FBI : Watchdog report details dysfunction , missteps in wiretap of Trump aide In its filing , the FBI was required to show the court how it would adhere to the rules governing requests for surveillance allowed under the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act , or FISA .
The law , enacted in 1978 , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ask judges for permission to conduct electronic surveillance of people suspected of acting as foreign agents .
Although the inspector general debunked claims by President Donald Trump that the Russia investigation was motivated by political bias , it revealed a dysfunctional system in which a team of investigators , handpicked to conduct one of the FBI 's most sensitive investigations , committed `` basic and fundamental errors . ''
The FBI sought four court-ordered wiretaps of Page .
Each application contained multiple errors , according to Inspector General Michael Howoritz 's report .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ important information , including some that contradicted investigators ' suspicions that Page was acting as a foreign agent .
During Senate testimony last month , Horowitz said the surveillance of Page continued even as investigators gathered new evidence `` that weakened the assessment '' of Page 's activities.. Horowitz 's report concluded that investigators overstated the reliability of a former British intelligence officer whose information they used to justify the surveillance warrants .
Agents described Christopher Steele as someone whose information had been `` corroborated and used in criminal proceedings . ''
Horowitz @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Investigators also did n't provide documentation to back up some of their assertions to justify the wiretap warrants .
In some cases , the documents showed their claims were wrong .
One supervisor said he did n't necessarily review full documents to make sure they supported what the agents claimed , according to the report .
Horowitz referred a former FBI attorney to prosecutors for possible criminal investigation for altering an email from a liaison at another government agency .
The email confirmed Page had been a source of information for the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ changed it to say the opposite .
That covered up a piece of information that would have undercut the FBI 's justification to wiretap Page .
This , Collyer wrote in her order , `` gave rise to serious concerns about the accuracy and completeness '' of any surveillance warrant applications involving that attorney .

FBI outlines surveillance reforms after searing rebuke from court, DOJ inspector general
Show Caption Hide Caption Wray: FBI won't repeat errors noted in report FBI Director Chris Wray says the bureau is determined to not repeat any of the mistakes identified in a harshly critical watchdog report on the handling of the Hillary Clinton email investigation. (June 18) AP
WASHINGTON — FBI Director Christopher Wray outlined a series of proposed reforms Friday aimed at bolstering public confidence in sensitive surveillance operations in wake of a damning report that revealed flaws in how the bureau handled wiretap applications for a former Trump campaign aide.
In a filing ordered by the chief judge of the secretive Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Court, Wray pledged that the bureau would overhaul its training program for agents and lawyers to ensure that information used to support future surveillance applications is complete and properly vetted.
The plan comes more than a month after the Justice Department's inspector general identified 17 inaccuracies in requests to wiretap former Trump campaign foreign policy adviser Carter Page in 2016 and 2017. The surveillance of Page, whom the FBI believed was conspiring with the Russian government, was conducted as the FBI investigated Russia's efforts to meddle in the 2016 presidential election.
"The FBI has the utmost respect for this court, and deeply regrets the errors and omissions identified by the (inspector general)," Wray wrote, adding that the Justice watchdog's report described "conduct that is unacceptable and unrepresentative of the FBI as an institution."
Trump's response: Trump claims DOJ inspector general report shows 'attempted overthrow' of the government
Wray described the surveillance authority provided by the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA), which is approved by the court, as "an indispensable tool in national security investigations."
"In recognition of our duty of candor to the court and our responsibilities to the American people, the FBI is committed to working with the court and (Justice Department) to ensure the accuracy and completeness of the FISA process," Wray wrote.
The centerpiece of the training regimen, as outlined in the FBI filing, is the proposed creation of a "case study" based on the inspector general's findings in the Page surveillance applications. Wray ordered that the training program be created by April 30 and is requiring that all agents and lawyers who staff FISA complete the training by June 30.
"I am determined that operational personnel understand, holistically, what occurred during the activities reflected in the (inspector general's) report, and that, in addition, personnel working on FISA applications understand the importance of rigor during each and every phase of the application process," the director wrote.
After the inspector general's report was released, Judge Rosemary Collyer, chief judge of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Court that considers the sensitive wiretap applications, rebuked the FBI and asserted it had misled the court when seeking permission to wiretap Page.
"The frequency with which representations made by FBI personnel turned out to be unsupported or contradicted by information in their possession, and with which they withheld information detrimental to their case, calls into question whether information contained in other FBI applications is reliable," Judge Rosemary Collyer wrote.
Searing IG report: FBI wiretap of Trump campaign aide was riddled with errors, but Russia probe was legally justified, IG report finds
Wiretap trouble: A new blow to the FBI: Watchdog report details dysfunction, missteps in wiretap of Trump aide
In its filing, the FBI was required to show the court how it would adhere to the rules governing requests for surveillance allowed under the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act. The law, enacted in 1978, outlines procedures investigators must follow when they ask judges for permission to conduct electronic surveillance of people suspected of acting as foreign agents.
Although the inspector general debunked claims by President Donald Trump that the Russia investigation was motivated by political bias, it revealed a dysfunctional system in which a team of investigators, handpicked to conduct one of the FBI's most sensitive investigations, committed "basic and fundamental errors."
The FBI sought four court-ordered wiretaps of Page. Each application contained multiple errors, according to Inspector General Michael Howoritz's report.
Among the most common were omissions of important information, including some that contradicted investigators' suspicions that Page was acting as a foreign agent.
During Senate testimony last month, Horowitz said the surveillance of Page continued even as investigators gathered new evidence "that weakened the assessment" of Page's activities..
Horowitz's report concluded that investigators overstated the reliability of a former British intelligence officer whose information they used to justify the surveillance warrants. Agents described Christopher Steele as someone whose information had been "corroborated and used in criminal proceedings." Horowitz's report said that wasn't true.
Investigators also didn't provide documentation to back up some of their assertions to justify the wiretap warrants. In some cases, the documents showed their claims were wrong. One supervisor said he didn't necessarily review full documents to make sure they supported what the agents claimed, according to the report.
Horowitz referred a former FBI attorney to prosecutors for possible criminal investigation for altering an email from a liaison at another government agency. The email confirmed Page had been a source of information for the other agency, but the FBI attorney changed it to say the opposite.
That covered up a piece of information that would have undercut the FBI's justification to wiretap Page.
This, Collyer wrote in her order, "gave rise to serious concerns about the accuracy and completeness" of any surveillance warrant applications involving that attorney.
Contributing: Kristine Phillips


usatoday--2020-01-11--Gov. Gavin Newsom proposed the largest budget in California history today. Here's what you need to k


usatoday--2020-01-11--'The world is watching': Trump tweets in support of Iran protests

As anti-government protesters took to the streets in Tehran against Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei , President Donald Trump tweeted in support and called for international monitors .
`` The government of Iran must allow human rights groups to monitor and report facts from the ground on the ongoing protests by the Iranian people , '' Trump tweeted in English and Farsi .
`` There can not be another massacre of peaceful protesters , nor an internet shutdown .
The world is watching . ''
Trump was referencing the Iranian government 's crackdown on anti-government protests over a spike @ @ @ @ @ @ @ government quashed protests by arresting , injuring and killing protesters and shutting down the country 's internet .
On Friday , the Iranian government accepted blame for the downing of a Ukrainian airliner Wednesday , sparking protests against the Iranian government 's handling of the incident .
The United Kingdom Ambassador to Iran was arrested and briefly detained by Iranian authorities after attending Saturday 's protest .
British Foreign Minister Dominic Raab slammed the arrest as a `` flagrant violation of international law . ''
In a tweet , State Department spokesperson Morgan @ @ @ @ @ @ @ apologize to the British government and to `` respect the rights of all diplomats . ''
The Ukrainian jet was shot down by the Iranian military , which had mistaken it for a cruise missile , killing all 176 people aboard .
The government had insisted a missile had not caused the plane 's crash .
But in a statement on Friday Eastern Standard Time , the Iranian military said the plane was mistaken for a “ hostile target ” after it turned toward a “ sensitive military center ” of the Revolutionary @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Iranian state media on Saturday morning local time .
The plane 's downing occurred shortly after Iranian missiles struck U.S. bases in Iraq in retaliation for the killing of top Iranian General Qasem Soleimani in an airstrike ordered by Trump .
More : Exclusive : Americans say Soleimani 's killing made US less safe , Trump 'reckless ' on Iran The tensions between the two countries , however , did not reach any further levels of military escalation .
On Thursday , Trump announced further sanctions on Iran , saying Iran `` appears @ @ @ @ @ @ @ also tweeted a message in both English and Farsi expressing support for the people of Iran .
`` We are following your protests closely , and are inspired by your courage , '' he wrote .

'The world is watching': Trump tweets in support of Iran protests
Show Caption Hide Caption Protests erupt after Tehran admits Ukrainian plane crash unintentional President Donald Trump tweeted his support for anti-government protests after Iran admits they accidentally shot down the passenger jet. USA TODAY
As anti-government protesters took to the streets in Tehran against Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, President Donald Trump tweeted in support and called for international monitors.
"The government of Iran must allow human rights groups to monitor and report facts from the ground on the ongoing protests by the Iranian people," Trump tweeted in English and Farsi. "There can not be another massacre of peaceful protesters, nor an internet shutdown. The world is watching."
Trump was referencing the Iranian government's crackdown on anti-government protests over a spike in gas prices last November. The government quashed protests by arresting, injuring and killing protesters and shutting down the country's internet.
On Friday, the Iranian government accepted blame for the downing of a Ukrainian airliner Wednesday, sparking protests against the Iranian government's handling of the incident.
The United Kingdom Ambassador to Iran was arrested and briefly detained by Iranian authorities after attending Saturday's protest. British Foreign Minister Dominic Raab slammed the arrest as a "flagrant violation of international law."
In a tweet, State Department spokesperson Morgan Ortagus called on the Iranian government to apologize to the British government and to "respect the rights of all diplomats."
The Iranian regime arrested the British ambassador to Iran. This violates the Vienna Convention, which the regime has a notorious history of violating. We call on the regime to formally apologize to the UK for violating his rights and to respect the rights of all diplomats. — Morgan Ortagus (@statedeptspox) January 11, 2020
The Ukrainian jet was shot down by the Iranian military, which had mistaken it for a cruise missile, killing all 176 people aboard. The government had insisted a missile had not caused the plane's crash. But in a statement on Friday Eastern Standard Time, the Iranian military said the plane was mistaken for a “hostile target” after it turned toward a “sensitive military center” of the Revolutionary Guard. The statement was carried by Iranian state media on Saturday morning local time.
The plane's downing occurred shortly after Iranian missiles struck U.S. bases in Iraq in retaliation for the killing of top Iranian General Qasem Soleimani in an airstrike ordered by Trump.
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
More: As Iran accepts blame for Ukrainian plane crash, Canada demands justice, answers
More: Exclusive: Americans say Soleimani's killing made US less safe, Trump 'reckless' on Iran
The tensions between the two countries, however, did not reach any further levels of military escalation. On Thursday, Trump announced further sanctions on Iran, saying Iran "appears to be standing down."
Trump also tweeted a message in both English and Farsi expressing support for the people of Iran.
"We are following your protests closely, and are inspired by your courage," he wrote.
به مردم شجاع و رنج کشیده ایران: من از ابتدای دوره ریاست جمهوریم با شما ایستاده‌ام و دولت من همچنان با شما خواهد ایستاد. ما اعتراضات شما را از نزدیک دنبال می کنیم. شجاعت شما الهام بخش است. — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 11, 2020
To the brave, long-suffering people of Iran: I've stood with you since the beginning of my Presidency, and my Administration will continue to stand with you. We are following your protests closely, and are inspired by your courage. — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 11, 2020
Contributing: Grace Hauck


usatoday--2020-01-11--2 US service members killed in roadside bomb attack in Afghanistan

Two US service members were killed in a roadside bomb attack in Afghanistan , NATO announced Saturday .
Two other service members were wounded .
The service members were part of an operation with NATO 's Resolute Support mission , the NATO-led security assistance mission in Afghanistan .
NATO said it would not release the names of the service members until 24 hours after notification of next of kin , citing Pentagon policy .
The Taliban took responsibility for the attack , the Associated Press reported .
More : Inside the U.S. military 's raid against its own security guards @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The United States has been involved in peace negotiations with the Taliban as it attempts to bring home soldiers from the conflict .
Talks fell apart last September after the Taliban claimed responsibility for a car bomb attack that killed an American and 11 others , but President Donald Trump said at a surprise visit to soldiers in November he had restarted peace talks .
`` The Taliban wants to make a deal – we ’ ll see if they make a deal .
If they do , they do , and if @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ t .
That 's fine , '' Trump told reporters at the time .
More than 2,400 U.S. soldiers have been killed in Afghanistan since U.S. forces began operations in the country in 2001 .

2 US service members killed in roadside bomb attack in Afghanistan
Show Caption Hide Caption Iranian military admits to unintentionally shooting down Ukraine jet Iranian leaders said late Friday that their country's missiles unintentionally shot down a Ukrainian jet after taking off from Tehran. USA TODAY
Two US service members were killed in a roadside bomb attack in Afghanistan, NATO announced Saturday.
Two other service members were wounded.
The service members were part of an operation with NATO's Resolute Support mission, the NATO-led security assistance mission in Afghanistan.
NATO said it would not release the names of the service members until 24 hours after notification of next of kin, citing Pentagon policy.
The Taliban took responsibility for the attack, the Associated Press reported.
More: Inside the U.S. military's raid against its own security guards that left dozens of Afghan children dead
The United States has been involved in peace negotiations with the Taliban as it attempts to bring home soldiers from the conflict. Talks fell apart last September after the Taliban claimed responsibility for a car bomb attack that killed an American and 11 others, but President Donald Trump said at a surprise visit to soldiers in November he had restarted peace talks.
"The Taliban wants to make a deal – we’ll see if they make a deal. If they do, they do, and if they don’t, they don’t. That's fine," Trump told reporters at the time.
More than 2,400 U.S. soldiers have been killed in Afghanistan since U.S. forces began operations in the country in 2001.
More: Taliban council agrees to temporary cease-fire in Afghanistan


usatoday--2020-01-12--Defense secretary Mark Esper didn't see specific evidence of Iran plot against 4 US embassies

Defense Secretary Mark Esper said Sunday he had not seen specific evidence that Iran planned an imminent attack on four U.S. embassies , as President Donald Trump has asserted , but said he and several members of the administration 's national security team shared the president 's view that the embassies were potential targets .
Trump cited the purported plot against the embassies in an interview Friday as justification for his decision to order a lethal drone strike on Iranian Gen. Qasem Soleimani earlier this month in Baghdad , Iraq .
The administration has said Iran 's top general posed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the president had to act without taking the time to consult Congress .
But some congressional critics have said they have not seen evidence to support that claim .
Ongoing threat : Iran claims revenge for Qasem Soleimani 's killing , but the US Navy is still a target More : Did Iran mean to kill Americans in its Iraq attack ?
The answer hints at how far Iran will go to challenge US Esper said on CBS News ' `` Face the Nation '' that the administration acted upon solid intelligence in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , `` There was going to be an attack within a matter of days that would be broad in scale – in other words , more than one country – and that it would be bigger than previous attacks . ''
Esper said `` there was a reference in this exquisite intelligence to an attack on the United States Embassy in Baghdad , '' which was shared with the bipartisan congressional leaders known as the Gang of Eight .
When asked if there was a specific piece of evidence to support Trump 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Esper said , `` I did n't see one with regard to the four embassies . ''
The Pentagon chief said the president never claimed there was `` tangible '' or specific evidence of a coming attack on the embassies but was discussing what he thought `` could '' happen .
He shared Trump 's view that the diplomatic enclaves were `` probably '' targets because `` embassies are the most prominent display of American presence in a country . ''
National Security Advisor Robert O'Brien echoed Esper 's comments during an @ @ @ @ @ @ @ saw the intelligence .
`` We had exquisite intelligence , and the intelligence showed that they were looking at U.S. facilities throughout the region , '' Robert O'Brien said on `` Meet the Press . ''
`` They wanted to inflict casualties on American soldiers , sailors , airmen , marines , as well as diplomats . ''
O'Brien said `` the president was decisive and bold in his action '' when he learned Iran might take action against the U.S. Embassy in Baghdad .
'The world is watching ' : Trump tweets @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Committee Chairman Adam Schiff , D-Calif. , who was briefed on the intelligence as a member of the Gang of Eight , disputed the administration 's characterization of the evidence .
`` They are overstating and exaggerating what the intelligence shows .
And when you 're talking about justifying acts that might bring us into warfare with Iran , that 's a dangerous thing to do , '' Schiff said Sunday on `` Face the Nation . ''
Esper said most members of the Gang of Eight thought the intelligence was `` persuasive @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it should be released to the broader members of Congress . ''
Schiff disagreed .
`` We often do n't share the most sensitive sources and methods with all of the members , but that 's not an excuse for withholding from the members the underlying facts .
And so if the intelligence showed that there were four embassies being targeted that should have been shared with the members , '' Schiff said .
`` It was n't , because I do n't believe that is what the intelligence showed . ''
House @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Sunday on ABC News ' `` This Week '' : `` I do n't think the administration has been straight with the Congress of the United States , '' in explaining the decision to kill Soleimani , who she said was `` a terrible person . ''
Pelosi said though she has no illusions that Iran is a bad actor , she did not want to see the situation escalate .
And she was angered that Trump had not advised the Gang of Eight before killing Soleimani .
`` What you 're saying @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the United States with sources , and methods and timing , '' Pelosi said .
`` That is wrong . ''
Last week , House Democrats passed a resolution calling on Trump to seek congressional approval before taking military action against Iran .
Two libertarian-leaning Republican senators who were frustrated by the administration 's handling of the intelligence have said they would vote for the Senate version of the bill , and a third Republican said he would consider it .
House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy dismissed the resolution as `` nonbinding @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will not go to the president 's desk for a signature .
On Fox News ' `` Sunday Morning Futures , '' McCarthy did not discuss the intelligence , but derided Democrats for their unwillingness to back Trump 's decision to kill Soleimani .
`` It is his natural instinct to always put America first and keep us safe .
The Democrats ' instinct is to blame America first , '' McCarthy said .
Trump vs. Tehran : Iraqis stuck in the middle in battle for Middle East influence

Defense secretary Mark Esper didn't see specific evidence of Iran plot against 4 US embassies
Show Caption Hide Caption Iran could target U.S. Navy in Persian Gulf U.S. Navy vessels stationed in Persian Gulf are already in the center of tension between Tehran and Washington, as Iran struggles to fight sanctions. USA TODAY
Defense Secretary Mark Esper said Sunday he had not seen specific evidence that Iran planned an imminent attack on four U.S. embassies, as President Donald Trump has asserted, but said he and several members of the administration's national security team shared the president's view that the embassies were potential targets.
Trump cited the purported plot against the embassies in an interview Friday as justification for his decision to order a lethal drone strike on Iranian Gen. Qasem Soleimani earlier this month in Baghdad, Iraq.
The administration has said Iran's top general posed an immediate threat to Americans and therefore the president had to act without taking the time to consult Congress. But some congressional critics have said they have not seen evidence to support that claim.
Ongoing threat: Iran claims revenge for Qasem Soleimani's killing, but the US Navy is still a target
More: Did Iran mean to kill Americans in its Iraq attack? The answer hints at how far Iran will go to challenge US
Esper said on CBS News' "Face the Nation" that the administration acted upon solid intelligence in deciding to kill Soleimani. He said, "There was going to be an attack within a matter of days that would be broad in scale – in other words, more than one country – and that it would be bigger than previous attacks."
Esper said "there was a reference in this exquisite intelligence to an attack on the United States Embassy in Baghdad," which was shared with the bipartisan congressional leaders known as the Gang of Eight.
When asked if there was a specific piece of evidence to support Trump's statement that four embassies were in danger, Esper said, "I didn't see one with regard to the four embassies."
The Pentagon chief said the president never claimed there was "tangible" or specific evidence of a coming attack on the embassies but was discussing what he thought "could" happen.
He shared Trump's view that the diplomatic enclaves were "probably" targets because "embassies are the most prominent display of American presence in a country."
National Security Advisor Robert O'Brien echoed Esper's comments during an interview with NBC News, saying he saw the intelligence.
"We had exquisite intelligence, and the intelligence showed that they were looking at U.S. facilities throughout the region," Robert O'Brien said on "Meet the Press." "They wanted to inflict casualties on American soldiers, sailors, airmen, marines, as well as diplomats."
O'Brien said "the president was decisive and bold in his action" when he learned Iran might take action against the U.S. Embassy in Baghdad.
'The world is watching': Trump tweets in support of Iran protests
House Intelligence Committee Chairman Adam Schiff, D-Calif., who was briefed on the intelligence as a member of the Gang of Eight, disputed the administration's characterization of the evidence.
"They are overstating and exaggerating what the intelligence shows. And when you're talking about justifying acts that might bring us into warfare with Iran, that's a dangerous thing to do," Schiff said Sunday on "Face the Nation."
Esper said most members of the Gang of Eight thought the intelligence was "persuasive" and "did not think that it should be released to the broader members of Congress." Schiff disagreed.
"We often don't share the most sensitive sources and methods with all of the members, but that's not an excuse for withholding from the members the underlying facts. And so if the intelligence showed that there were four embassies being targeted that should have been shared with the members," Schiff said. "It wasn't, because I don't believe that is what the intelligence showed."
House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., said Sunday on ABC News' "This Week": "I don't think the administration has been straight with the Congress of the United States," in explaining the decision to kill Soleimani, who she said was "a terrible person."
Pelosi said though she has no illusions that Iran is a bad actor, she did not want to see the situation escalate. And she was angered that Trump had not advised the Gang of Eight before killing Soleimani.
"What you're saying is you don't trust the Congress of the United States with sources, and methods and timing," Pelosi said. "That is wrong."
Last week, House Democrats passed a resolution calling on Trump to seek congressional approval before taking military action against Iran. Two libertarian-leaning Republican senators who were frustrated by the administration's handling of the intelligence have said they would vote for the Senate version of the bill, and a third Republican said he would consider it.
House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy dismissed the resolution as "nonbinding" because as a concurrent resolution it will not go to the president's desk for a signature.
On Fox News' "Sunday Morning Futures," McCarthy did not discuss the intelligence, but derided Democrats for their unwillingness to back Trump's decision to kill Soleimani.
"It is his natural instinct to always put America first and keep us safe. The Democrats' instinct is to blame America first," McCarthy said.
Trump vs. Tehran: Iraqis stuck in the middle in battle for Middle East influence
More: As Iran accepts blame for Ukrainian plane crash, Canada demands justice, answers


usatoday--2020-01-12--Iowa voters split on impeachment in latest Iowa Poll; nearly half don't want Trump removed

DES MOINES , Iowa – Iowa voters are split on the U.S. House of Representatives ’ decision to impeach President Donald Trump , but nearly half say the president should not be removed from office .
Forty-five percent of registered Iowa voters disapprove of the House decision to impeach the president , while 43 % approve of it and 12 % are n't sure , according to the latest Des Moines Register/CNN/Mediacom Iowa Poll .
When asked if Trump should be removed from office , 48 % of Iowa voters say he should not , and 40 % say he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , according to the poll .
The poll also asked whether it 's OK for a U.S. presidential candidate to try to gain political advantage over an election rival by seeking help from foreign countries .
The question did not name President Trump as someone accused of that .
Iowa voters overwhelmingly ( 72 % ) say such action is not OK .
The poll of 3,131 registered voters in Iowa was conducted Jan. 2-8 by Selzer & Co .
It has a margin of error of plus or minus 1.8 percentage points @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to impeach Trump for abuse of power and obstruction of Congress .
He is charged with pressuring the president of Ukraine to open an investigation into former Vice President Joe Biden .
The articles of impeachment say Trump used the official powers of his office for his own political gain and obstructed Congress by directing government agencies to defy subpoenas for documents and testimony when lawmakers tried to investigate .
The House vote fell almost entirely on party lines , with nearly all Democrats voting in favor of the articles and every Republican @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the poll also mostly fell along party lines in their views on the House ’ s actions .
Ninety percent of Republicans disapprove of the impeachment vote , while 87 % of Democrats approve .
Independents are split on the House vote : 48 % disapprove , while 39 % approve .
Iowa Poll : Bernie Sanders leads for the first time , just weeks before Iowa caucuses The party split was similar when registered Iowa voters were asked if Trump should be removed from office .
Ninety-one percent of Republicans say Trump @ @ @ @ @ @ @ while 83 % of Democrats say he should be .
Just over half of independents , 51 % , say Trump should not be removed from office , while 34 % say he should be .
Paul Holzworth , a poll respondent who 's a Republican and voted for Trump in 2016 , said he disapproves of Democrats ’ move to impeach Trump .
Holzworth called the investigations a “ waste of time and money.
” “ I have n't seen any solid evidence that he has done an impeachable act , ” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from Johnston .
Holzworth said he plans to “ definitely ” vote to reelect him .
“ He told you exactly what he was going to do , and so far , he ’ s done it , ” Holzworth said of Trump .
Justin High , a poll respondent who 's a Democrat and plans to caucus for U.S. Sen. Bernie Sanders , said he approves of the House ’ s decision to impeach Trump and thinks the president should be removed from office .
But , he added , “ honestly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of that happening in the Republican-controlled Senate .
Still , High , a 30-year-old sales representative from Des Moines , said he thinks the House ’ s impeachment vote is valuable even if Trump remains in office .
“ I think that it represents a stance that … nobody is above the law , ” he said . '
I wished I was on that plane ' : Iranian general apologizes ; missiles pound Iraq base .
What we know now Wide majority say it 's not OK to seek political advantage through @ @ @ @ @ @ @ respondents say it ’ s not OK for a U.S. presidential candidate to try to gain political advantage over an election rival by seeking help from foreign countries .
Seventy-two percent say such behavior is not OK , while 10 % say it is OK and 17 % are n't sure .
That view is held by majorities of every demographic breakdown , including 59 % of Republicans and 56 % of those who say they voted for President Trump in 2016 .
`` If the question is the action , it ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the question , apparently , '' said pollster J. Ann Selzer , president of Selzer & Co. High , the Des Moines Democrat , said foreign interference in U.S. elections is something the country ’ s founders were concerned about .
“ When we were a nation first being set up , that ’ s what we were trying to get away from , ” he said .
“ We were trying to get away from foreign governments ... dictating how we live our lives and influencing those things.
” • Bernie Sanders @ @ @ @ @ @ @ time , just weeks before the Iowa caucuses • Elizabeth Warren holds on to 2nd place in Iowa Poll , showing some strengths , weaknesses • Pete Buttigieg 's support in Iowa dips as he rejoins cluster of candidates below Iowa Poll front-runner • Joe Biden ’ s support remains steady in latest Iowa Poll less than one month before caucus night • A guide to Democrats running for president and what likely Iowa caucus participants think of them Richard Davis , a 58-year-old poll respondent and veteran service officer from Iowa City @ @ @ @ @ @ @ wrong to seek foreign help in an election , but , he said , “ maybe President Trump is right ” about there being something worth investigating about Biden .
( There is no evidence to suggest that Biden acted improperly as vice president regarding Ukraine . )
“ But he did it the wrong way .
President Trump did it the wrong way , ” said Davis , an independent who said he voted third-party in 2016 .
Davis said he approves of the House ’ s decision to impeach Trump but @ @ @ @ @ @ @ removed from office .
He likened the impeachment vote to receiving a warning for inappropriate conduct at work .
“ I don ’ t believe it was a fireable offense , ” he said .
Robin Pfotenhauer , 54 , a poll respondent who 's a Democrat and a farmer in Durango , Iowa , disapproves of the vote in the House to impeach Trump because she doesn ’ t think Trump sought “ dirt ” on his political rivals in his infamous call with the Ukraine president .
The call last summer @ @ @ @ @ @ @ investigations into the president .
“ For me , that 's the sticky wicket , '' she said .
“ He never asked about dirt.
” More from USA TODAY : What 's going on with Trump and Ukraine ?
And how does it involve Biden and a whistleblower complaint ?
Majority would definitely vote for someone other than Trump or consider it Asked for whom they would vote if the presidential election was held today , 34 % of registered Iowa voters say they would definitely vote to reelect Trump , 12 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ % would definitely vote for someone else , 2 % would not vote and 8 % are n't sure .
Pfotenhauer , the Durango Democrat , doesn ’ t think Trump should be removed from office , but she ’ s open to considering a different candidate in 2020 .
Pfotenhauer caucused for Sanders in 2016 but did not vote for president in the 2016 general election .
She appreciates what Trump has done for the economy , but she doesn ’ t like his governing style , especially his tweets .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ all the time , '' Pfotenhauer said about her feelings on Trump .
“ I kind of feel like I 'm on both sides of the aisle.
” Trump continues to enjoy widespread popularity with Republicans in Iowa .
Seventy percent of registered Republicans who do not plan to caucus with Democrats on Feb. 3 say they will “ definitely vote ” to reelect Trump – down from 76 % in a poll released in November .
There ’ s been an uptick in the number of Republicans who say they ’ re @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to vote for Trump , from 2 % in November to 8 % in the latest poll .
• Voter guide : Don ’ t have a lot of time ?
Find FAQs on the key issues , where the candidates stand and more to make your vote matter .
• Candidates on the issues : Find out how candidates plan to tackle health care , climate change , gun violence and more .
• Register to vote : To caucus on Feb. 3 , you must be registered to vote .
Register @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Iowa Poll , conducted Jan. 2-8 , 2020 , for the Des Moines Register , CNN and Mediacom by Selzer & Co. of Des Moines , is based on telephone interviews with 3,131 registered voters in Iowa , including 701 who say they will definitely or probably attend the 2020 Democratic caucuses .
Interviewers with Quantel Research contacted randomly selected active voters from the Iowa secretary of state ’ s voter registration list by telephone .
The sample was supplemented with additional phone number lookups .
Interviews were administered in English .
Responses @ @ @ @ @ @ @ age and congressional district to reflect their proportions among active voters in the list .
Questions based on the sample of 701 voters likely to attend the 2020 Iowa Democratic caucuses have a maximum margin of error of plus or minus 3.7 percentage points .
Questions based on the sample of 3,131 registered voters have a maximum margin of error of plus or minus 1.8 percentage points .
This means that if this survey were repeated using the same questions and the same methodology , 19 times out of 20 , the findings @ @ @ @ @ @ @ value by more than plus or minus 3.7 or 1.8 percentage points , respectively .
Results based on smaller samples of respondents — such as by gender or age — have a larger margin of error .
Republishing the copyright Iowa Poll without credit to the Des Moines Register , CNN , and Mediacom is prohibited .
► MORE ON THIS POLL : Read our methodology 'Why them ?
What did they do ? '
: Canada mourns victims of Iranian plane crash , seeks answers Pelosi warns McConnell : Senate Republicans they @ @ @ @ @ @ @ engage in 'cover-up '

Stephen Gruber-Miller and Barbara Rodriguez, Des Moines Register

Iowa voters split on impeachment in latest Iowa Poll; nearly half don't want Trump removed
Show Caption Hide Caption Iowa caucus: Just how much influence does it have on the primary? The Iowa caucus is sure to be competitive this year. But what makes caucuses different from primaries? Just the FAQs
© Copyright 2020, Des Moines Register and Tribune Co.
DES MOINES, Iowa – Iowa voters are split on the U.S. House of Representatives’ decision to impeach President Donald Trump, but nearly half say the president should not be removed from office.
Forty-five percent of registered Iowa voters disapprove of the House decision to impeach the president, while 43% approve of it and 12% aren't sure, according to the latest Des Moines Register/CNN/Mediacom Iowa Poll.
When asked if Trump should be removed from office, 48% of Iowa voters say he should not, and 40% say he should, with 13% not sure, according to the poll.
The poll also asked whether it's OK for a U.S. presidential candidate to try to gain political advantage over an election rival by seeking help from foreign countries. The question did not name Trump as someone accused of that. Iowa voters overwhelmingly (72%) say such action is not OK.
The poll of 3,131 registered voters in Iowa was conducted Jan. 2-8 by Selzer & Co. It has a margin of error of plus or minus 1.8 percentage points.
Partisan House vote, party split in polling response
In December, the House voted to impeach Trump for abuse of power and obstruction of Congress. He is charged with pressuring the president of Ukraine to open an investigation into former Vice President Joe Biden. The articles of impeachment say Trump used the official powers of his office for his own political gain and obstructed Congress by directing government agencies to defy subpoenas for documents and testimony when lawmakers tried to investigate.
The House vote fell almost entirely on party lines, with nearly all Democrats voting in favor of the articles and every Republican opposed.
Registered Republicans and Democrats in the poll also mostly fell along party lines in their views on the House’s actions. Ninety percent of Republicans disapprove of the impeachment vote, while 87% of Democrats approve. Independents are split on the House vote: 48% disapprove, while 39% approve.
Iowa Poll: Bernie Sanders leads for the first time, just weeks before Iowa caucuses
The party split was similar when registered Iowa voters were asked if Trump should be removed from office. Ninety-one percent of Republicans say Trump should not be removed from office, while 83% of Democrats say he should be. Just over half of independents, 51%, say Trump should not be removed from office, while 34% say he should be.
Paul Holzworth, a poll respondent who is a Republican and voted for Trump in 2016, said he disapproves of Democrats’ move to impeach Trump. Holzworth called the investigations a “waste of time and money.”
“I haven't seen any solid evidence that he has done an impeachable act,” said Holzworth, 87, a physician from Johnston.
Holzworth said he plans to “definitely” vote to reelect him.
“He told you exactly what he was going to do, and so far, he’s done it,” Holzworth said of Trump.
Justin High, a poll respondent who is a Democrat and plans to caucus for U.S. Sen. Bernie Sanders, said he approves of the House’s decision to impeach Trump and thinks the president should be removed from office. But, he added, “honestly, there’s no chance” of that happening in the Republican-controlled Senate.
Still, High, a 30-year-old sales representative from Des Moines, said he thinks the House’s impeachment vote is valuable even if Trump remains in office.
“I think that it represents a stance that … nobody is above the law,” he said.
'I wished I was on that plane': Iranian general apologizes; missiles pound Iraq base. What we know now
Wide majority say it's not OK to seek political advantage through foreign help
By a 7-1 margin, respondents say it’s not OK for a U.S. presidential candidate to try to gain political advantage over an election rival by seeking help from foreign countries. Seventy-two percent say such behavior is not OK, while 10% say it is OK and 17% aren't sure.
That view is held by majorities of every demographic breakdown, including 59% of Republicans and 56% of those who say they voted for President Trump in 2016.
"If the question is the action, it’s settled, but that is not the question, apparently," said pollster J. Ann Selzer, president of Selzer & Co.
High, the Des Moines Democrat, said foreign interference in U.S. elections is something the country’s founders were concerned about.
“When we were a nation first being set up, that’s what we were trying to get away from,” he said. “We were trying to get away from foreign governments ... dictating how we live our lives and influencing those things.”
More from January's Iowa Poll:
Richard Davis, a 58-year-old poll respondent and veteran service officer from Iowa City, said he believes it’s wrong to seek foreign help in an election, but, he said, “maybe President Trump is right” about there being something worth investigating about Biden. (There is no evidence to suggest that Biden acted improperly as vice president regarding Ukraine.)
“But he did it the wrong way. President Trump did it the wrong way,” said Davis, an independent who said he voted third-party in 2016.
Davis said he approves of the House’s decision to impeach Trump but doesn’t believe Trump should be removed from office. He likened the impeachment vote to receiving a warning for inappropriate conduct at work.
“I don’t believe it was a fireable offense,” he said.
Robin Pfotenhauer, 54, a poll respondent who's a Democrat and a farmer in Durango, Iowa, disapproves of the vote in the House to impeach Trump because she doesn’t think Trump sought “dirt” on his political rivals in his infamous call with the Ukraine president. The call last summer was at the center of Democrats’ investigations into the president.
“For me, that's the sticky wicket," she said. “He never asked about dirt.”
More from USA TODAY: What's going on with Trump and Ukraine? And how does it involve Biden and a whistleblower complaint?
Majority would definitely vote for someone other than Trump or consider it
Asked for whom they would vote if the presidential election was held today, 34% of registered Iowa voters say they would definitely vote to reelect Trump, 12% would consider someone else, 44% would definitely vote for someone else, 2% would not vote and 8% aren't sure.
Pfotenhauer, the Durango Democrat, doesn’t think Trump should be removed from office, but she’s open to considering a different candidate in 2020. Pfotenhauer caucused for Sanders in 2016 but did not vote for president in the 2016 general election. She appreciates what Trump has done for the economy, but she doesn’t like his governing style, especially his tweets.
"I have a political war with myself all the time," Pfotenhauer said about her feelings on Trump. “I kind of feel like I'm on both sides of the aisle.”
Trump continues to enjoy widespread popularity with Republicans in Iowa. Seventy percent of registered Republicans who do not plan to caucus with Democrats on Feb. 3 say they will “definitely vote” to reelect Trump – down from 76% in a poll released in November. There’s been an uptick in the number of Republicans who say they’re “not sure” about their plans to vote for Trump, from 2% in November to 8% in the latest poll.
More from USA TODAY:
About this poll
The Iowa Poll, conducted Jan. 2-8, 2020, for the Des Moines Register, CNN and Mediacom by Selzer & Co. of Des Moines, is based on telephone interviews with 3,131 registered voters in Iowa, including 701 who say they will definitely or probably attend the 2020 Democratic caucuses.
Interviewers with Quantel Research contacted randomly selected active voters from the Iowa secretary of state’s voter registration list by telephone. The sample was supplemented with additional phone number lookups. Interviews were administered in English. Responses for all registered voters were adjusted by age and congressional district to reflect their proportions among active voters in the list.
Questions based on the sample of 701 voters likely to attend the 2020 Iowa Democratic caucuses have a maximum margin of error of plus or minus 3.7 percentage points. Questions based on the sample of 3,131 registered voters have a maximum margin of error of plus or minus 1.8 percentage points. This means that if this survey were repeated using the same questions and the same methodology, 19 times out of 20, the findings would not vary from the true population value by more than plus or minus 3.7 or 1.8 percentage points, respectively. Results based on smaller samples of respondents — such as by gender or age — have a larger margin of error.
Republishing the copyright Iowa Poll without credit to the Des Moines Register, CNN, and Mediacom is prohibited.
► MORE ON THIS POLL: Read our methodology
Follow reporter Stephen Gruber-Miller on Twitter at @sgrubermiller.
Follow reporter Barbara Rodriguez on Twitter @bcrodriguez.
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