usatoday--2020-05-11--Tennessee Sen. Lamar Alexander to self-quarantine for 14 days after staffer tests positive for coron

Tennessee Sen. Lamar Alexander will self-quarantine for 14 days after a member of his staff tested positive for COVID-19 .
The 79-year-old Republican is doing well and has no symptoms of the respiratory illness , according to a Sunday night statement from his office .
He also tested negative for COVID-19 last week .
Because of his age , Alexander is among older adults who are considered at high risk for the coronavirus , which has killed nearly 80,000 Americans and more than 280,000 worldwide .
`` After discussing this with the Senate ’ s attending physician , Senator Alexander @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , has decided not to return to Washington , D.C. , and will self-quarantine in Tennessee for 14 days , '' said David Clear , Alexander 's chief of staff , in the statement .
Little information has been released about the staffer who tested positive , but the senator 's office said that person is recovering and doing well .
Alexander will continue to oversee the Senate health committee hearing during his self-quarantine .
The news of the senator 's self-quarantine comes days after Vice President Mike Pence 's press secretary tested @ @ @ @ @ @ @ denied reports Sunday that Pence was self-isolating .
Also Sunday , the White House announced a series of additional precautions to ensure the safety of the president and his staff after two administration aides tested positive for the coronavirus .
President Donald Trump and Pence will be tested daily for the virus , as will every staff member in close proximity to them .
White House guests will be tested , workspaces will undergo regular deep cleaning , and staff will follow social distancing guidelines , undergo daily temperature checks and have their @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Judd Deere said Sunday .
A Navy valet who had been in the same room with Trump on Tuesday tested positive last week for the virus .

Anna Celia Gallegos, Nashville Tennessean

Tennessee Sen. Lamar Alexander to self-quarantine for 14 days after staffer tests positive for coronavirus
Show Caption Hide Caption White House addresses coronavirus cases among West Wing staff White House has confirmed a second coronavirus case among West Wing staff, this time in VP Mike Pence's office. President Trump addresses concerns. USA TODAY
Tennessee Sen. Lamar Alexander will self-quarantine for 14 days after a member of his staff tested positive for COVID-19.
The 79-year-old Republican is doing well and has no symptoms of the respiratory illness, according to a Sunday night statement from his office. He also tested negative for COVID-19 last week.
Because of his age, Alexander is among older adults who are considered at high risk for the coronavirus, which has killed nearly 80,000 Americans and more than 280,000 worldwide.
"After discussing this with the Senate’s attending physician, Senator Alexander, out of an abundance of caution, has decided not to return to Washington, D.C., and will self-quarantine in Tennessee for 14 days," said David Clear, Alexander's chief of staff, in the statement.
Little information has been released about the staffer who tested positive, but the senator's office said that person is recovering and doing well.
Alexander will continue to oversee the Senate health committee hearing during his self-quarantine.
The news of the senator's self-quarantine comes days after Vice President Mike Pence's press secretary tested positive for COVID-19. The White House denied reports Sunday that Pence was self-isolating.
Also Sunday, the White House announced a series of additional precautions to ensure the safety of the president and his staff after two administration aides tested positive for the coronavirus.
President Donald Trump and Pence will be tested daily for the virus, as will every staff member in close proximity to them. White House guests will be tested, workspaces will undergo regular deep cleaning, and staff will follow social distancing guidelines, undergo daily temperature checks and have their symptom histories reviewed, White House spokesman Judd Deere said Sunday.
A Navy valet who had been in the same room with Trump on Tuesday tested positive last week for the virus.
Contributing: Michael Collins and Tom Vanden Brook, USA TODAY


usatoday--2020-05-10--US coronavirus response a 'chaotic disaster,' Obama tells former staffers in call

Former President Barack Obama called the U.S. response to the coronavirus pandemic an `` absolute chaotic disaster '' and promised to campaign `` as hard as I can '' for former Vice President Joe Biden in a call Friday with 3,000 people who served in his administration .
A recording of the call was obtained by Yahoo News .
Katie Hill , Obama 's communication director , confirmed the call to CBS News .
In addressing the Trump administration 's response to the coronavirus pandemic , Obama cited concerns about division and tribalism in the country and internationally .
That @ @ @ @ @ @ @ spotty '' response to the health crisis , Obama said .
Though the challenge would be difficult for any government to address , it has been an `` absolute chaotic disaster '' in the USA , he said .
Obama blamed a `` mindset of 'what 's in it for me , and to heck with everyone else ' `` in President Donald Trump 's administration .
Social distancing regulations have largely been determined by local authorities rather than the federal government .
States have rolled out constantly changing rules that vary down @ @ @ @ @ @ @ times .
As of Sunday , U.S. coronavirus cases had reached about 1.3 million , and deaths topped 79,000 .
During the call , Obama reacted to the Justice Department dropping its criminal case against Trump ’ s first national security adviser , Michael Flynn , saying he worried that the “ basic understanding of rule of law is at risk.
” Obama has infrequently criticized Trump .
In late March , he apparently took a swipe at Trump 's initial skepticism of the coronavirus pandemic .
`` We 've seen all too @ @ @ @ @ @ @ warnings of a pandemic , '' Obama tweeted March 31 , without directly naming the president .
Obama weighed in on the federal response to the coronavirus outbreak in the context of warning about the effect of Trump 's decision to ease fuel-efficiency standards the Democratic president put in place to combat climate change .
Trump claimed his administration 's response to the pandemic saved `` millions of lives , '' often citing moves to restrict travel from China and Europe as successes .
In the White House 's response to Obama 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ did not mention Obama directly .
“ President Trump ’ s coronavirus response has been unprecedented and saved American lives , ” she said .
“ While Democrats were pursuing a sham witch hunt against President Trump , President Trump was shutting down travel from China .
“ While Democrats encouraged mass gatherings , President Trump was deploying PPE , ventilators and testing across the country , ” she said .
Last weekend , former President George W. Bush released a video encouraging Americans to stand up to the coronavirus pandemic that did @ @ @ @ @ @ @ led to criticism from Trump .
Contributing : David Jackson and Courtney Subramanian , USA TODAY ; The Associated Press

US coronavirus response a 'chaotic disaster,' Obama tells former staffers in call
Former President Barack Obama called the U.S. response to the coronavirus pandemic an "absolute chaotic disaster" and promised to campaign "as hard as I can" for former Vice President Joe Biden in a call Friday with 3,000 people who served in his administration.
A recording of the call was obtained by Yahoo News. Katie Hill, Obama's communication director, confirmed the call to CBS News.
In addressing the Trump administration's response to the coronavirus pandemic, Obama cited concerns about division and tribalism in the country and internationally. That has contributed to an "anemic and spotty" response to the health crisis, Obama said.
Though the challenge would be difficult for any government to address, it has been an "absolute chaotic disaster" in the USA, he said.
Obama blamed a "mindset of 'what's in it for me, and to heck with everyone else' " in President Donald Trump's administration.
Social distancing regulations have largely been determined by local authorities rather than the federal government. States have rolled out constantly changing rules that vary down to the county or city level at times.
As of Sunday, U.S. coronavirus cases had reached about 1.3 million, and deaths topped 79,000.
During the call, Obama reacted to the Justice Department dropping its criminal case against Trump’s first national security adviser, Michael Flynn, saying he worried that the “basic understanding of rule of law is at risk.”
Obama has infrequently criticized Trump. In late March, he apparently took a swipe at Trump's initial skepticism of the coronavirus pandemic.
"We've seen all too terribly the consequences of those who denied warnings of a pandemic," Obama tweeted March 31, without directly naming the president.
Obama weighed in on the federal response to the coronavirus outbreak in the context of warning about the effect of Trump's decision to ease fuel-efficiency standards the Democratic president put in place to combat climate change.
Trump claimed his administration's response to the pandemic saved "millions of lives," often citing moves to restrict travel from China and Europe as successes.
In the White House's response to Obama's latest remarks, press secretary Kayleigh McEnany did not mention Obama directly.
“President Trump’s coronavirus response has been unprecedented and saved American lives,” she said. “While Democrats were pursuing a sham witch hunt against President Trump, President Trump was shutting down travel from China.
“While Democrats encouraged mass gatherings, President Trump was deploying PPE, ventilators and testing across the country,” she said.
Last weekend, former President George W. Bush released a video encouraging Americans to stand up to the coronavirus pandemic that did not mention Trump, an omission that led to criticism from Trump.
Contributing: David Jackson and Courtney Subramanian, USA TODAY; The Associated Press


usatoday--2020-05-12--Nebraska House race may be bellwether for Democrats

LINCOLN , Neb .
( AP ) — Nebraska is preparing to hold the first statewide in-person election in more than a month , offering clues not only about the wisdom of going to the polls during a pandemic but also about the mood of Democrats in a key congressional district .
Despite pleas from Democrats that the state shift to an all-mail election or delay Tuesday 's vote as other states have done , Republican leaders insisted the state proceed even as they encouraged people to request absentee ballots .
It will be the first statewide vote since Wisconsin @ @ @ @ @ @ @ election will be remembered for long lines , a surge of absentee ballots could mean Nebraska 's vote will be notable for a ghost town feel at polling places .
As of Thursday , voters had cast 321,528 absentee ballots , surpassing the total vote in the 2016 primary .
And given that more ballots are likely in the mail , that probably will mean the few who show up at polling places will have plenty of social distance .
“ Voter participation in early balloting has reached unprecedented levels , ” Secretary @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from Nebraska 's statewide election , special elections also will be held Tuesday in Wisconsin and California to fill open congressional seats .
Even if little excitement is expected at Nebraska polling places , the results of the voting will certainly be interesting , especially in the Omaha-based 2nd Congressional District .
Voters will choose between Kara Eastman and Ann Ashford for the Democratic nomination to face Republican Don Bacon .
Eastman is a nonprofit consultant who supports Medicare for all , stricter gun laws and a higher minimum wage .
Ashford is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of likely Democratic presidential nominee Joe Biden .
Eastman lost to Bacon in 2018 by nearly 2 percentage points , as her support in Omaha was offset by Bacon 's stronger showing in suburban areas .
Although Bacon beat Eastman after portraying her as too liberal for the district , she has n't shied away from her progressive beliefs .
“ It ’ s really easy to peg candidates as one thing or another , but the reality is the policies I support and the things I talk about on the campaign trail @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Ashford , whose husband Brad Ashford represented the district for one term before losing to Bacon , has taken jabs at Eastman in campaign ads , arguing that Medicare-for-all isn ’ t feasible and that the district needs someone who will work to achieve what ’ s politically possible in Washington .
Ashford said she supports a public option , a government-sponsored insurance plan that would compete with private health insurance .
“ People are looking for realistic solutions , ” she said .
“ I think they always have , and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that ’ s not helpful.
” A third candidate , Gladys Harrison , hasn ’ t generated nearly as much money or attention as Ashford and Eastman .
Vince Powers , a Democratic party activist and former state chairman , said voters are focused on who can beat Bacon and they 're hopeful that many voters have tired of President Donald Trump 's polarizing presidency .
Despite concerns Eastman is more liberal than the district 's voters , Powers said her network of supporters and donors built up in the last election could @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , former communication director for the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee , said the lack of typical campaigning due to the coronavirus also could favor Eastman .
“ If you already have an advantage , and the dynamics in the race get locked in place because of something like a pandemic , and you can ’ t do the face-to-face campaigning or door-knocking that ’ s so critical in an urban congressional district , I think that ’ s a huge advantage to the incumbent or whoever won the primary previously , ” Law @ @ @ @ @ @ @ see a contradiction between Democrats nationally who are coalescing behind the moderate Biden and the possibility that those in the 2nd District will nominate the progressive Eastman .
“ It would be on Kara Eastman to translate and sell her message to a moderate electorate , ” Law said .
“ But I want to be clear , a lot of progressive candidates across the country won in moderate districts in 2018 .
It absolutely can be done this year.
” Wisconsin 's special election Tuesday is in a rural congressional district that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ long lines that other places did in the state 's April 7 primary .
Trump carried the district by 20 points , more than 20 times his narrow marging in the state four years ago .
The seat has been vacant since September , when Trump backer and former reality TV star Sean Duffy retired .
Tom Tiffany , a Republican state senator closely aligned with Trump , is vying for the seat against Tricia Zunker , a Democrat school board president backed by liberals who is seeking to become the first Native @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The California race pits Democrat Christy Smith against Republican Mike Garcia for a seat representing a suburban Los Angeles House district .
They ’ re running to replace former Democratic Rep. Katie Hill , who resigned after admitting to an affair with a campaign staffer .
Democrats see it as a referendum on President Donald Trump , who has endorsed Garcia .
Associated Press writers Thomas Beaumont in Des Moines , Iowa , and Scott Bauer in Madison , Wisconsin , contributed to this report .

Nebraska House race may be bellwether for Democrats
Show Caption Hide Caption Nebraska, Wisconsin hold elections amid virus Nebraska holds statewide elections including a presidential primary Tuesday while one rural Wisconsin Congressional district holds a second election in five weeks amid the coronavirus pandemic. (May 11) AP
LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — Nebraska is preparing to hold the first statewide in-person election in more than a month, offering clues not only about the wisdom of going to the polls during a pandemic but also about the mood of Democrats in a key congressional district.
Despite pleas from Democrats that the state shift to an all-mail election or delay Tuesday's vote as other states have done, Republican leaders insisted the state proceed even as they encouraged people to request absentee ballots.
It will be the first statewide vote since Wisconsin's much-criticized April 7 primary Although that election will be remembered for long lines, a surge of absentee ballots could mean Nebraska's vote will be notable for a ghost town feel at polling places.
As of Thursday, voters had cast 321,528 absentee ballots, surpassing the total vote in the 2016 primary. And given that more ballots are likely in the mail, that probably will mean the few who show up at polling places will have plenty of social distance.
“Voter participation in early balloting has reached unprecedented levels,” Secretary of State Bob Evnen said.
Apart from Nebraska's statewide election, special elections also will be held Tuesday in Wisconsin and California to fill open congressional seats.
Even if little excitement is expected at Nebraska polling places, the results of the voting will certainly be interesting, especially in the Omaha-based 2nd Congressional District.
Voters will choose between Kara Eastman and Ann Ashford for the Democratic nomination to face Republican Don Bacon. Eastman is a nonprofit consultant who supports Medicare for all, stricter gun laws and a higher minimum wage. Ashford is a self-described moderate candidate in the mold of likely Democratic presidential nominee Joe Biden.
Eastman lost to Bacon in 2018 by nearly 2 percentage points, as her support in Omaha was offset by Bacon's stronger showing in suburban areas. Although Bacon beat Eastman after portraying her as too liberal for the district, she hasn't shied away from her progressive beliefs.
“It’s really easy to peg candidates as one thing or another, but the reality is the policies I support and the things I talk about on the campaign trail are widely supported,” she said.
Ashford, whose husband Brad Ashford represented the district for one term before losing to Bacon, has taken jabs at Eastman in campaign ads, arguing that Medicare-for-all isn’t feasible and that the district needs someone who will work to achieve what’s politically possible in Washington. Ashford said she supports a public option, a government-sponsored insurance plan that would compete with private health insurance.
“People are looking for realistic solutions,” she said. “I think they always have, and when candidates throw out pie-in-the-sky ideas, that’s not helpful.”
A third candidate, Gladys Harrison, hasn’t generated nearly as much money or attention as Ashford and Eastman.
Vince Powers, a Democratic party activist and former state chairman, said voters are focused on who can beat Bacon and they're hopeful that many voters have tired of President Donald Trump's polarizing presidency. Despite concerns Eastman is more liberal than the district's voters, Powers said her network of supporters and donors built up in the last election could give her an edge.
Tyler Law, former communication director for the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee, said the lack of typical campaigning due to the coronavirus also could favor Eastman.
“If you already have an advantage, and the dynamics in the race get locked in place because of something like a pandemic, and you can’t do the face-to-face campaigning or door-knocking that’s so critical in an urban congressional district, I think that’s a huge advantage to the incumbent or whoever won the primary previously,” Law said.
Law said he doesn't see a contradiction between Democrats nationally who are coalescing behind the moderate Biden and the possibility that those in the 2nd District will nominate the progressive Eastman.
“It would be on Kara Eastman to translate and sell her message to a moderate electorate,” Law said. “But I want to be clear, a lot of progressive candidates across the country won in moderate districts in 2018. It absolutely can be done this year.”
Wisconsin's special election Tuesday is in a rural congressional district that didn't experience the same problem with long lines that other places did in the state's April 7 primary.
Trump carried the district by 20 points, more than 20 times his narrow marging in the state four years ago. The seat has been vacant since September, when Trump backer and former reality TV star Sean Duffy retired.
Tom Tiffany, a Republican state senator closely aligned with Trump, is vying for the seat against Tricia Zunker, a Democrat school board president backed by liberals who is seeking to become the first Native American elected to Congress from Wisconsin.
The California race pits Democrat Christy Smith against Republican Mike Garcia for a seat representing a suburban Los Angeles House district. They’re running to replace former Democratic Rep. Katie Hill, who resigned after admitting to an affair with a campaign staffer. Democrats see it as a referendum on President Donald Trump, who has endorsed Garcia.
Associated Press writers Thomas Beaumont in Des Moines, Iowa, and Scott Bauer in Madison, Wisconsin, contributed to this report.


usatoday--2020-05-11--7 women on Joe Biden's running mate shortlist

The former vice president will soon begin the process of selecting a running mate as the Democratic primary nears its @ @

Joe Biden's vice presidential candidate: 6 possibilities
The former vice president will soon begin the process of selecting a running mate as the Democratic primary nears its end.
USA TODAY


usatoday--2020-05-12--Ex-prosecutor in case of Trump adviser Roger Stone issues rebuke of DOJ decision to drop Flynn case

A former federal prosecutor , who resigned his post this year to protest the Justice Department 's intervention in the sentencing of Trump campaign adviser Roger Stone , issued a scathing rebuke Monday of Justice officials for abandoning its prosecution of former national security adviser Michael Flynn .
`` Last week , the department again put political patronage ahead of its commitment to the rule of law ... notwithstanding Flynn ’ s sworn guilty plea and a ruling by the court that the plea was sound , '' Jonathan Kravis wrote in an op-ed published by The Washington Post .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ former Justice Department officials signed their names to an open letter , calling on Attorney General William Barr to resign .
`` We continue to believe that it would be best for the integrity of the Justice Department and for our democracy for Attorney General Barr to step aside , '' the letter stated .
`` In the meantime , we call on Congress to hold the Attorney General accountable .
In the midst of the greatest public health crisis our nation has faced in over a century , we would all prefer @ @ @ @ @ @ @ health and prosperity of Americans , not threats to the health of our democracy .
Yet Attorney General Barr has left Congress with no choice . ''
In February , more than 2,000 former DOJ officials asked Barr to resign over the Justice Department 's handling of Stone 's case .
The Justice Department declined to comment on Monday .
Kravis , one of four prosecutors who withdrew from the case in February after Justice officials recommended a lighter sentence for Stone , later resigned from department altogether in wake of the decision @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the department .
'Brick by brick ' : DOJ decision in Michael Flynn case continues dismantling of Mueller investigation '' I left a job I loved because I believed the department had abandoned its responsibility to do justice in one of my cases , United States v. Roger Stone , '' Kravis said , breaking a monthslong silence .
`` At the time , I thought that the handling of the Stone case , with senior officials intervening to recommend a lower sentence for a longtime ally of President ( Donald ) Trump @ @ @ @ @ @ @ department would not make again .
I was wrong . ''
Justice officials , in court documents filed Thursday , served notice of their intent to drop the Flynn case , claiming that the FBI 's 2017 interview of the then-national security adviser was `` unjustified '' as they sought to learn about his communications with then-Russian Ambassador Sergey Kislyak .
In that interview , Flynn lied when he told agents that he had not discussed sanctions imposed against Russia by the Obama administration .
He subsequently pleaded guilty and agreed to cooperate @ @ @ @ @ @ @ reversing course early this year and sought to withdraw his plea , asserting that he was duped by federal investigators .
Trump : New FBI notes exonerate Michael Flynn , analysts say that 's not the case '' The government is not persuaded that the January 24 , 2017 interview was conducted with a legitimate investigative basis and therefore does not believe Mr. Flynn ’ s statements were material even if untrue , '' the Justice Department concluded .
`` Moreover , we do not believe that the government can prove either the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a reasonable doubt . ''
In his op-ed , Kravis said that he felt `` compelled to write because I believe that the department 's handling of these matters is profoundly misguided . ''
`` I am convinced that the department ’ s conduct in the Stone and Flynn cases will do lasting damage to the institution , '' he said .
In the Stone case , Justice backed away from a stiff prison sentence recommended for Stone , a longtime ally of the president , after Trump 's public criticism of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for a new trial after Trump accuses juror of bias Stone was found guilty in November of lying to Congress and obstructing the Russia investigation to protect Trump and his presidential campaign .
The 67-year-old longtime GOP operative was one of six former Trump aides to be convicted in cases stemming from former special counsel Robert Mueller 's investigation into Russia 's interference in the 2016 presidential election .
Prosecutors had initially recommended he serve seven to nine years in prison , drawing the ire of Trump who called it a `` miscarriage @ @ @ @ @ @ @ course , saying the initial recommendation `` does not accurately reflect '' the agency 's position .
Although the department maintained that imprisonment was warranted , the agency said seven to nine years `` would not be appropriate . ''
Stone was subsequently sentenced to just more than three years in prison , but he is appealing the conviction .
`` In my experience , the Justice Department staunchly defends sentences within the guidelines range , particularly for defendants ( such as Stone ) who are convicted at trial , and especially for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ repeatedly demonstrate disrespect for the judicial system , '' Kravis wrote .
`` I resigned because I was not willing to serve a department that would so easily abdicate its responsibility to dispense impartial justice , '' Kravis said .

Ex-prosecutor in case of Trump adviser Roger Stone issues rebuke of DOJ decision to drop Flynn case
Show Caption Hide Caption Roger Stone: Prosecutors quit case against Donald Trump ally In a short period, the Justice Department changed their prison recommendation for Roger Stone while four attorneys abruptly quit the prosecution team. USA TODAY
A former federal prosecutor, who resigned his post this year to protest the Justice Department's intervention in the sentencing of Trump campaign adviser Roger Stone, issued a scathing rebuke Monday of Justice officials for abandoning its prosecution of former national security adviser Michael Flynn.
"Last week, the department again put political patronage ahead of its commitment to the rule of law ... notwithstanding Flynn’s sworn guilty plea and a ruling by the court that the plea was sound," Jonathan Kravis wrote in an op-ed published by The Washington Post.
Kravis' admonition came as about 2,000 former Justice Department officials signed their names to an open letter, calling on Attorney General William Barr to resign.
"We continue to believe that it would be best for the integrity of the Justice Department and for our democracy for Attorney General Barr to step aside," the letter stated. "In the meantime, we call on Congress to hold the Attorney General accountable. In the midst of the greatest public health crisis our nation has faced in over a century, we would all prefer it if Congress could focus on the health and prosperity of Americans, not threats to the health of our democracy. Yet Attorney General Barr has left Congress with no choice."
In February, more than 2,000 former DOJ officials asked Barr to resign over the Justice Department's handling of Stone's case.
The Justice Department declined to comment on Monday.
Kravis, one of four prosecutors who withdrew from the case in February after Justice officials recommended a lighter sentence for Stone, later resigned from department altogether in wake of the decision that ignited a firestorm inside and outside the department.
'Brick by brick': DOJ decision in Michael Flynn case continues dismantling of Mueller investigation
"I left a job I loved because I believed the department had abandoned its responsibility to do justice in one of my cases, United States v. Roger Stone," Kravis said, breaking a monthslong silence. "At the time, I thought that the handling of the Stone case, with senior officials intervening to recommend a lower sentence for a longtime ally of President (Donald) Trump, was a disastrous mistake that the department would not make again. I was wrong."
Justice officials, in court documents filed Thursday, served notice of their intent to drop the Flynn case, claiming that the FBI's 2017 interview of the then-national security adviser was "unjustified" as they sought to learn about his communications with then-Russian Ambassador Sergey Kislyak.
In that interview, Flynn lied when he told agents that he had not discussed sanctions imposed against Russia by the Obama administration. He subsequently pleaded guilty and agreed to cooperate with Russia special counsel Robert Mueller before reversing course early this year and sought to withdraw his plea, asserting that he was duped by federal investigators.
Trump: New FBI notes exonerate Michael Flynn, analysts say that's not the case
"The government is not persuaded that the January 24, 2017 interview was conducted with a legitimate investigative basis and therefore does not believe Mr. Flynn’s statements were material even if untrue," the Justice Department concluded. "Moreover, we do not believe that the government can prove either the relevant false statements or their materiality beyond a reasonable doubt."
In his op-ed, Kravis said that he felt "compelled to write because I believe that the department's handling of these matters is profoundly misguided."
"I am convinced that the department’s conduct in the Stone and Flynn cases will do lasting damage to the institution," he said.
In the Stone case, Justice backed away from a stiff prison sentence recommended for Stone, a longtime ally of the president, after Trump's public criticism of the recommendation.
More: Roger Stone asks for a new trial after Trump accuses juror of bias
Stone was found guilty in November of lying to Congress and obstructing the Russia investigation to protect Trump and his presidential campaign. The 67-year-old longtime GOP operative was one of six former Trump aides to be convicted in cases stemming from former special counsel Robert Mueller's investigation into Russia's interference in the 2016 presidential election.
Prosecutors had initially recommended he serve seven to nine years in prison, drawing the ire of Trump who called it a "miscarriage of justice."
Justice quickly reversed course, saying the initial recommendation "does not accurately reflect" the agency's position. Although the department maintained that imprisonment was warranted, the agency said seven to nine years "would not be appropriate."
Stone was subsequently sentenced to just more than three years in prison, but he is appealing the conviction.
"In my experience, the Justice Department staunchly defends sentences within the guidelines range, particularly for defendants (such as Stone) who are convicted at trial, and especially for defendants (such as Stone) who repeatedly demonstrate disrespect for the judicial system," Kravis wrote.
"I resigned because I was not willing to serve a department that would so easily abdicate its responsibility to dispense impartial justice," Kravis said.


usatoday--2020-05-11--Bipartisan group of senators want $200 million in diaper assistance in next coronavirus rescue bill

A bipartisan group of senators on Monday called for the next coronavirus rescue package to include $ 200 million in diaper assistance as families contend with shortages and increased demand amid layoffs and lost income .
Sens .
Joni Ernst , R-Iowa , and Chris Murphy , D-Conn. , called for the diaper relief in a joint letter to Majority Leader Mitch McConnell and Minority Leader Charles Schumer .
They were joined by Sens .
Tammy Baldwin , D-Wis. , Bob Casey , D-Pa. , Susan Collins , R-Maine , Kevin Cramer , R-N.D. , and Thom Tillis , R-N.C. @ @ @ @ @ @ @ dire circumstances .
Even as parents face layoffs and unprecedented unemployment numbers , recent reporting has shown a run on diapers from stockpiling and supply chain issues leaving families unsure if they will be able to access diapers for their children , '' the senators wrote .
One in three families already could not afford a steady supply of diapers before the pandemic began , with low-income families spending about 14 % of their income on the disposable baby products , the senators said .
Though non-profits help by distributing more than 80 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to be done , they added .
`` Even before the COVID-19 pandemic hit , nonprofit diaper bank distribution only met five to six percent of diaper need .
Most diaper banks , which were already oversubscribed and had waiting lists for partner agencies , are now facing severe supply shortages due to the demand increase as more families experience job loss during this pandemic , '' the senators said .
Looking for Pampers and Huggies ?
: Diapers and wipes return to store shelves as COVID-19 shortages ease While some turned to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was n't an option for those without a washing machine or easy access to a laundromat .
Many child care providers require the parents to supply disposal diapers and wo n't accept the kids without them .
`` Essential workers should not have to worry about diaper need becoming a barrier for accessing childcare , '' the senators said .
As with toilet paper and several other hygiene products , many shoppers stockpiled supplies of diapers when the outbreak began , draining the shelves and causing a shortage from which experts predict it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fully recover .
Despite this plea from the senators , which they call a `` necessity for the health and well-being of every young child , '' their proposal is just one of several items lawmakers have floated as possible inclusions in a future stimulus bill , the fate of which remains uncertain .
Some Republicans have balked at the direct relief for local and state governments that have been proposed by Democrats , while President Donald Trump has proposed a payroll tax cut that Democrats oppose .
McConnell has suggested Congress pause @ @ @ @ @ @ @ expressed opposition to including what he calls `` pre-existing partisan wish-lists '' or `` tangential left-wing daydreams . ''
More checks ?
A payroll tax cut ?
: Trump and Congress are split on the next coronavirus stimulus plan

Bipartisan group of senators want $200 million in diaper assistance in next coronavirus rescue bill
Show Caption Hide Caption Coronavirus: Tips for dealing with diaper, baby wipe shortage COVID-19 stockpiling wiped out diapers and wipes. Baby essentials are returning to shelves, but it could be two months before they are easy to find. USA TODAY
A bipartisan group of senators on Monday called for the next coronavirus rescue package to include $200 million in diaper assistance as families contend with shortages and increased demand amid layoffs and lost income.
Sens. Joni Ernst, R-Iowa, and Chris Murphy, D-Conn., called for the diaper relief in a joint letter to Majority Leader Mitch McConnell and Minority Leader Chuck Schumer. They were joined by Sens. Tammy Baldwin, D-Wis., Bob Casey, D-Pa., Susan Collins, R-Maine, Kevin Cramer, R-N.D., and Thom Tillis, R-N.C.
"COVID-19 has forced working families into dire circumstances. Even as parents face layoffs and unprecedented unemployment numbers, recent reporting has shown a run on diapers from stockpiling and supply chain issues leaving families unsure if they will be able to access diapers for their children," the senators wrote.
One in three families already could not afford a steady supply of diapers before the pandemic began, with low-income families spending about 14% of their income on the disposable baby products, the senators said. Though nonprofits help by distributing more than 80 million diapers a month, more needs to be done, they added.
"Even before the COVID-19 pandemic hit, nonprofit diaper bank distribution only met five to six percent of diaper need. Most diaper banks, which were already oversubscribed and had waiting lists for partner agencies, are now facing severe supply shortages due to the demand increase as more families experience job loss during this pandemic," the senators said.
Looking for Pampers and Huggies?: Diapers and wipes return to store shelves as COVID-19 shortages ease
Tips on how to deal with money stress and ways to seek help Marriage and family therapist Adriana Alejandre shares tips to handle anxiety over money and how to look for help during quarantine. Just the FAQs, USA TODAY
While some turned to cloth diapers as a backup, that wasn't an option for those without a washing machine or easy access to a laundromat. Many child care providers require the parents to supply disposal diapers and won't accept the kids without them.
"Essential workers should not have to worry about diaper need becoming a barrier for accessing childcare," the senators said.
As with toilet paper and several other hygiene products, many shoppers stockpiled supplies of diapers when the outbreak began, draining the shelves and causing a shortage from which experts predict it could take at least another month to fully recover.
Despite this plea from the senators, which they call a "necessity for the health and well-being of every young child," their proposal is just one of several items lawmakers have floated as possible inclusions in a future stimulus bill, the fate of which remains uncertain.
Some Republicans have balked at the direct relief for local and state governments that have been proposed by Democrats, while President Donald Trump has proposed a payroll tax cut that Democrats oppose. McConnell has suggested Congress pause before approving additional stimulus money and has expressed opposition to including what he calls "pre-existing partisan wish-lists" or "tangential left-wing daydreams."
Contributing: Jessica Guynn
More checks? A payroll tax cut?: Trump and Congress are split on the next coronavirus stimulus plan


usatoday--2020-05-12--Supreme Court confronts 'faithless electors' as 2020 presidential election looms

WASHINGTON – Election Day is Nov. 3 , but the winner of the White House traditionally is n't official until December , when 538 presidential electors confirm the results .
On Wednesday , the Supreme Court will consider giving those virtually unknown people more than perfunctory power .
The justices , customarily allergic to politics , appear on track to decide a threshold question that haunts the way presidents and vice presidents are chosen : Must the men and women chosen on Election Day to cast ballots for the winner of their state 's popular vote keep their pledge ?
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ before have these electors flipped an election .
But 10 electors were disloyal or tried to be in 2016 , enough to change the results of five previous presidential elections .
And there 's a first time for everything .
`` What ’ s motivating both sides in this case is the need to get this resolved before things blow up in November , '' says Rebecca Green , co-director of the election law program at William & Mary Law School in Virginia .
The 2020 presidential election already faces myriad challenges .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ voting in the face of the coronavirus pandemic , which has relegated presumptive Democratic nominee Joe Biden to a makeshift basement studio while President Donald Trump and Vice President Mike Pence deal with staff members who have tested positive .
Now come two cases from Colorado and Washington State that could determine whether presidential electors have autonomy under the Electoral College system to vote for whomever they choose – regardless of the results on Nov. 3 .
`` If we ’ re going to dramatically change the role of electors , obviously everyone @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' Washington Solicitor General Noah Purcell says .
More : Supreme Court makes historic change to hear oral arguments over the phone and stream them live Washington 's Supreme Court last year upheld $ 1,000 fines against three Democratic electors who cast votes in December 2016 for Colin Powell rather than Hillary Clinton , who had won the state 's popular vote .
They had sought to deny Trump the presidency by convincing electors to choose a different Republican candidate .
Their ultimate goal : eliminating the Electoral College that gave the Oval @ @ @ @ @ @ @ George W. Bush in 2000 though both lost the popular vote in those years .
By contrast , the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 10th Circuit , based in Denver , ruled that a rogue vote cast by a Democratic elector in Colorado for Republican John Kasich rather than Clinton deserved to be counted .
The Supreme Court decided in January to hear both appeals , lest it be forced to intervene in a potential emergency situation after Election Day should an electors ' rebellion this fall potentially affect results .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , before it arises within the context of a contested election , '' Harvard Law School professor Lawrence Lessig urged on behalf of the three Washington State electors .
`` As the demographics of the United States indicate that contests will become even closer , there is a significant probability that such swings could force this court to resolve the question of electoral freedom within the context of an ongoing contest , '' he warned .
Under the Constitution , each state appoints electors to cast the electoral ballots apportioned by the popular @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of Columbia require electors to vote for their party 's candidate .
Some block nonconforming ballots from being counted or replace electors who do n't toe the line .
A few states provide for criminal penalties .
Washington 's Supreme Court ruled that the state was within its rights to issue the first-ever fines for so-called faithless electors .
`` An elector acts under the authority of the state , and no First Amendment right is violated when a state imposes a fine based on an elector ’ s violation of his pledge @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 8-1 decision .
The 10th Circuit set a different precedent in the Colorado case .
`` The states may not interfere with the electors ’ exercise of discretion in voting for president and vice president by removing the elector and nullifying his vote , '' the federal appeals court ruled .
Green notes that the job of electors is not always a formality .
For example , a study by FairVote found 165 electors over the course of history who exercised discretion .
`` There is an argument to be made that it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ says .
`` But it ’ s certainly scary . ''
The liberal Campaign Legal Center urged the court to uphold states ' rights to bind its electors to the candidate chosen by voters .
To do otherwise , the group said , would `` invite corruption and impropriety . ''
`` It does seem like such a terrible idea , '' says Paul Smith , the group 's vice president for litigation and strategy .
Trying to eliminate the Electoral College by empowering 538 electors , he says , is `` a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ''

Supreme Court confronts 'faithless electors' as 2020 presidential election looms
Show Caption Hide Caption Supreme Court shares oral arguments live: Is this the new norm? Coronavirus forced the Supreme Court of the United States to hear, and share, oral arguments remotely in real time, but will the change last? Hannah Gaber, USA TODAY
WASHINGTON – Election Day is Nov. 3, but the winner of the White House traditionally isn't official until December, when 538 presidential electors confirm the results.
On Wednesday, the Supreme Court will consider giving those virtually unknown people more than perfunctory power.
The justices, customarily allergic to politics, appear on track to decide a threshold question that haunts the way presidents and vice presidents are chosen: Must the men and women chosen on Election Day to cast ballots for the winner of their state's popular vote keep their pledge? Or can they go rogue?
Never before have these electors flipped an election. But 10 electors were disloyal or tried to be in 2016, enough to change the results of five previous presidential elections. And there's a first time for everything.
"What’s motivating both sides in this case is the need to get this resolved before things blow up in November," says Rebecca Green, co-director of the election law program at William & Mary Law School in Virginia.
The 2020 presidential election already faces myriad challenges. Many states are seeking to expand absentee voting in the face of the coronavirus pandemic, which has relegated presumptive Democratic nominee Joe Biden to a makeshift basement studio while President Donald Trump and Vice President Mike Pence deal with staff members who have tested positive.
'Resolve this conflict now'
Now come two cases from Colorado and Washington State that could determine whether presidential electors have autonomy under the Electoral College system to vote for whomever they choose – regardless of the results on Nov. 3.
"If we’re going to dramatically change the role of electors, obviously everyone should know that before the election," Washington Solicitor General Noah Purcell says.
More: Supreme Court makes historic change to hear oral arguments over the phone and stream them live
Washington's Supreme Court last year upheld $1,000 fines against three Democratic electors who cast votes in December 2016 for Colin Powell rather than Hillary Clinton, who had won the state's popular vote. They had sought to deny Trump the presidency by convincing electors to choose a different Republican candidate.
Their ultimate goal: eliminating the Electoral College that gave the Oval Office to Trump in 2016 and to George W. Bush in 2000 though both lost the popular vote in those years.
By contrast, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 10th Circuit, based in Denver, ruled that a rogue vote cast by a Democratic elector in Colorado for Republican John Kasich rather than Clinton deserved to be counted.
The Supreme Court decided in January to hear both appeals, lest it be forced to intervene in a potential emergency situation after Election Day should an electors' rebellion this fall potentially affect results.
"This court should resolve this conflict now, before it arises within the context of a contested election," Harvard Law School professor Lawrence Lessig urged on behalf of the three Washington State electors.
"As the demographics of the United States indicate that contests will become even closer, there is a significant probability that such swings could force this court to resolve the question of electoral freedom within the context of an ongoing contest," he warned.
Want to talk more about politics?: Join our Facebook group: ‘Across the Aisle, Across the Nation.
'Playing with fire'
Under the Constitution, each state appoints electors to cast the electoral ballots apportioned by the popular vote. Thirty-two states and the District of Columbia require electors to vote for their party's candidate. Some block nonconforming ballots from being counted or replace electors who don't toe the line. A few states provide for criminal penalties.
Washington's Supreme Court ruled that the state was within its rights to issue the first-ever fines for so-called faithless electors.
"An elector acts under the authority of the state, and no First Amendment right is violated when a state imposes a fine based on an elector’s violation of his pledge," that court ruled in an 8-1 decision.
The 10th Circuit set a different precedent in the Colorado case. "The states may not interfere with the electors’ exercise of discretion in voting for president and vice president by removing the elector and nullifying his vote," the federal appeals court ruled.
Green notes that the job of electors is not always a formality. For example, a study by FairVote found 165 electors over the course of history who exercised discretion.
"There is an argument to be made that it’s not disruptive," she says. "But it’s certainly scary."
The Campaign Legal Center urged the court to uphold states' rights to bind its electors to the candidate chosen by voters. To do otherwise, the group said, would "invite corruption and impropriety."
"It does seem like such a terrible idea," says Paul Smith, the group's vice president for litigation and strategy. Trying to eliminate the Electoral College by empowering 538 electors, he says, is "a little bit of playing with fire."
Richard Wolf covers the Supreme Court and legal issues for USA TODAY. You can follow him on Twitter @richardjwolf.


usatoday--2020-05-13--Democrats take step to allow virtual voting by delegates for 2020 convention

MILWAUKEE , Wis. – Democrats moved a step closer to allowing delegates to vote virtually during the 2020 Democratic National Convention in Milwaukee .
The party 's Rules and Bylaws Committee unanimously adopted a resolution Tuesday giving the team overseeing the convention the authority to change the format , size and dates of the event .
Delegates will also be able `` to participate in the convention in person or by means that allow for appropriate social distancing . ''
The full Democratic National Committee will have to approve the measure as the party tries to come to grips with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The outbreak has already forced organizers to move the Milwaukee convention from mid-July to the week of Aug. 17 .
DNC Secretary Jason Rae said the resolution gives convention organizers flexibility to arrange the event .
`` This is n't about option A ( a full-scale event ) or B ( a virtual event ) but it 's about looking at all the pieces of the convention , how to scale up or down as we get closer to August , '' Rae said .
Democrats : Convention pushed back to August @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , who served in the Clinton administration and has been on the party 's rules committee since 1977 , said : `` It is good that we are doing this several months in front of the convention .
We should use it as an opportunity perhaps to make lemonade out of lemons . ''
`` It is my expectation and hope that we will have an exciting , inspiring convention in August in Milwaukee , '' Perez said at the outset of the meeting .
`` Now , does this mean that a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
This resolution was necessary to adapt and plan in order to ensure that every delegate is able to accomplish their official business without putting their own health at risk , whether that be participating in person or by other means to allow for social distancing , '' Perez said .
Perez said contingency planning `` is an important feature of preparedness for every convention . ''
He said the Democratic National Convention Committee , which is led by chief executive Joe Solmonese , `` is composed of seasoned convention and event veterans @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of scenarios from day one . ''
Perez criticized President Donald Trump and Republican National Committee Chair Ronna McDaniel for their handling of the GOP convention scheduled for Charlotte , North Carolina , Aug. 24-27 .
Perez said Trump and McDaniel have repeatedly downplayed `` the severity of this crisis and scoffed at making changes to their convention .
They 're eager to advocate for federally funded personal protective equipment for their conventiongoers while dismissing the thousands of nurses and doctors and hospitals across the country who face significant shortages of PPE .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ said they are following recommendations and requirements from federal , state and local health officials .

Bill Glauber, Milwaukee Journal Sentinel

Democrats take step to allow virtual voting by delegates for 2020 convention
Show Caption Hide Caption Joe Biden's vice presidential candidate: 6 possibilities The former vice president will soon begin the process of selecting a running mate as the Democratic primary nears its end. USA TODAY
MILWAUKEE – Democrats moved a step closer to allowing delegates to vote virtually at the 2020 Democratic National Convention in Milwaukee.
The party's Rules and Bylaws Committee unanimously adopted a resolution Tuesday to give the team overseeing the convention the authority to change the format, size and dates of the event.
Delegates will also be able "to participate in the convention in person or by means that allow for appropriate social distancing."
The full Democratic National Committee will have to approve the measure as the party tries to come to grips with staging a convention amid the coronavirus pandemic.
The outbreak has already forced organizers to move the Milwaukee convention from mid-July to the week of Aug. 17.
DNC Secretary Jason Rae said the resolution gives convention organizers flexibility to arrange the event.
"This isn't about option A (a full-scale event) or B (a virtual event), but it's about looking at all the pieces of the convention, how to scale up or down as we get closer to August," Rae said.
Electoral College vs. the popular vote, explained President Trump and President George W. Bush won the electoral vote during the election, but not the popular vote. How does the electoral college work? Just the FAQs, USA TODAY
Democrats: Convention pushed back to August in response to coronavirus pandemic
Elaine Kamarck, who served in the Clinton administration and has been on the party's rules committee since 1977, said: "It is good that we are doing this several months in front of the convention. We should use it as an opportunity perhaps to make lemonade out of lemons."
Democratic National Committee Chair Tom Perez indicated convention planning remains in flux.
"It is my expectation and hope that we will have an exciting, inspiring convention in August in Milwaukee," Perez said at the outset of the meeting.
"Now, does this mean that a precise format has been decided? No. This resolution was necessary to adapt and plan in order to ensure that every delegate is able to accomplish their official business without putting their own health at risk, whether that be participating in person or by other means to allow for social distancing," Perez said.
Perez said contingency planning "is an important feature of preparedness for every convention."
He said the Democratic National Convention Committee, which is led by chief executive Joe Solmonese, "is composed of seasoned convention and event veterans who have been planning for a variety of scenarios from day one."
Perez criticized President Donald Trump and Republican National Committee Chair Ronna McDaniel for their handling of the GOP convention scheduled for Charlotte, North Carolina, Aug. 24-27.
Perez said Trump and McDaniel have repeatedly downplayed "the severity of this crisis and scoffed at making changes to their convention. They're eager to advocate for federally funded personal protective equipment for their conventiongoers while dismissing the thousands of nurses and doctors and hospitals across the country who face significant shortages of PPE."
Organizers of the Charlotte convention have said they are following recommendations and requirements from federal, state and local health officials.
Contributing: Mary Spicuzza


usatoday--2020-05-12--'I don't think you're the end-all': Rand Paul slams Anthony Fauci at Senate hearing

Sen. Rand Paul tangled with the nation 's foremost COVID-19 public health expert during a Senate committee hearing Tuesday over sending kids back to school and reopening the economy .
Speaking during a meeting of the Committee on Health , Education , Labor and Pensions , Paul , R-Ky. , said it is `` ridiculous '' to have a national strategy of not sending kids back to school in the fall and attacked Dr. Anthony Fauci , director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases .
Paul said that the COVID-19 mortality rate of children is much lower @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Sweden , which has kept schools open for children under 16 and is outside the top 10 countries in the world for COVID-19 deaths per capita .
Sweden does , however , have the largest number of COVID-19 cases and fatalities in Scandinavia .
`` If we keep kids out of school for another year , what 's going to happen is the poor and underprivileged kids who do n't have a parent that 's able to teach them at home are not going to learn for a full year , '' Paul @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : Messages and tone conflict in a long-distance COVID-19 debate Paul rebuked Fauci , saying : `` I do n't think you 're the end-all .
I do n't think you 're the one person who gets to make a decision .
We can listen to your advice , but there are people on the other side saying there 's not going to be a surge and that we can safely open the economy . ''
Fauci took exception to Paul 's comments , saying he never made himself out to be the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that he does n't give advice about `` anything other than public health . ''
Though Fauci said that children have lower mortality rates than adults and the elderly , he added that `` I think we better be careful if we are not cavalier in thinking that children are completely immune to the deleterious effects '' of COVID-19 .
`` I am very careful , and hopefully humble , in knowing that I do n't know everything about this disease , '' Fauci said .
`` And that 's why I 'm @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' Paul 's comments came less than a day after Kentucky Gov .
Andy Beshear announced a 10-year-old Kentucky child was in critical condition due to COVID-19 .
Answering a question from Sen. Lamar Alexander , R-Tenn. , earlier in the hearing , Fauci called the possibility of having a vaccine in time for the return of K-12 or college students in the fall “ unrealistic.
” '' Even at the top speed we 're going , we do n't see a vaccine playing in the ability of individuals to get back to @ @ @ @ @ @

Ben Tobin and Mandy McLaren, Louisville Courier Journal

'I don't think you're the end-all': Rand Paul slams Anthony Fauci at Senate hearing
Show Caption Hide Caption Coronavirus: Fauci says more deaths to come if no adequate response Dr. Anthony Fauci told senators "it is without a doubt that there will be infections" in the fall and warned of more deaths without adequate response. Associated Press, USA TODAY
Sen. Rand Paul tangled with the nation's foremost COVID-19 public health expert during a Senate committee hearing Tuesday over sending kids back to school and reopening the economy.
Speaking during a meeting of the Committee on Health, Education, Labor and Pensions, Paul, R-Ky., said it is "ridiculous" to have a national strategy of not sending kids back to school in the fall and attacked Dr. Anthony Fauci, director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases.
Paul said that the COVID-19 mortality rate of children is much lower than adults, and he pointed to Sweden, which has kept schools open for children under 16 and is outside the top 10 countries in the world for COVID-19 deaths per capita. Sweden does, however, have the largest number of COVID-19 cases and fatalities in Scandinavia.
"If we keep kids out of school for another year, what's going to happen is the poor and underprivileged kids who don't have a parent that's able to teach them at home are not going to learn for a full year," Paul said.
The president vs. the doctor: Messages and tone conflict in a long-distance COVID-19 debate
Paul rebuked Fauci, saying: "I don't think you're the end-all. I don't think you're the one person who gets to make a decision. We can listen to your advice, but there are people on the other side saying there's not going to be a surge and that we can safely open the economy."
Fauci: Hopeful of vaccine trials by winter The Director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, Dr. Anthony Fauci says the government is working on several potential vaccines for COVID-19. (May 12) AP
Fauci took exception to Paul's comments, saying he never made himself out to be the "only voice of this" and that he doesn't give advice about "anything other than public health."
Though Fauci said that children have lower mortality rates than adults and the elderly, he added that "I think we better be careful if we are not cavalier in thinking that children are completely immune to the deleterious effects" of COVID-19.
"I am very careful, and hopefully humble, in knowing that I don't know everything about this disease," Fauci said. "And that's why I'm very reserved in making broad predictions."
Fauci's testimony: 5 takeaways from the Senate coronavirus hearing
Paul's comments came less than a day after Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear announced a 10-year-old Kentucky child was in critical condition due to COVID-19.
Answering a question from Sen. Lamar Alexander, R-Tenn., earlier in the hearing, Fauci called the possibility of having a vaccine in time for the return of K-12 or college students in the fall “unrealistic.”
"Even at the top speed we're going, we don't see a vaccine playing in the ability of individuals to get back to school, this term."
Follow Ben Tobin on Twitter: @TobinBen.


usatoday--2020-05-12--Transgender woman whose civil rights case is before Supreme Court dies in Michigan

DETROIT – Aimee Stephens , a transgender Michigan woman whose case questioning whether federal law protected transgender individuals from job discrimination became the first of its kind to be heard by the U.S. Supreme Court , died Tuesday .
She was 59 .
Stephens , a former funeral home employee who said she was fired in 2013 for being transgender , was still awaiting what could be a landmark decision by the court , which is expected by the end of next month .
The American Civil Liberties Union , which helped present the case to the court , announced @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Aimee did not set out to be a hero and a trailblazer , but she is one , and our country owes her a debt of gratitude for her commitment to justice for all people and her dedication to our transgender community , '' said Chase Strangio , a member of Stephens ’ legal team and an ACLU official .
Freedom for All Americans , an advocacy group for LBGTQ individuals based in Washington , D.C. , noted that Stephens ' was the first-ever transgender civil rights case to be heard by the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ worker ’ s case going to Supreme Court , raising question whether 1964 law covers gender identity '' In the face of an employer who fired her for being her true self , Aimee came forward to share her personal story in front of the court and millions of Americans , '' said Kasey Suffredini , the group 's CEO and national campaign director .
`` In honor of Aimee Stephens ’ life , it ’ s more important than ever that the court rule on the side of dignity , respect , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' Her death is not expected to impact the court 's deliberations on a decision , since the case is so far along and there are other cases in which the estate of a deceased party to a case has continued to pursue an outcome .
No cause for Stephen 's death was given , though she suffered kidney failure in 2014 and had been on dialysis three times a week when the Free Press spoke to her in 2019 .
The ACLU said her wife , Donna Stephens , was with Aimee @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was a biologically assigned male at birth , confronted her boss at R.G .
& G.R .
Harris Funeral Home in Garden City in 2013 , saying in a letter she wished to begin dressing as a woman at work after having done so outside of work for some time .
The funeral home owner , a devout Christian who had a strict gender-based dress code , said it would n't work out and eventually fired her .
Having considered killing herself a year before that , she told the Free Press she @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , saying her feeling that she needed to be true to herself was too strong .
“ It was either send the letter or not be here anymore , '' she said .
But she decided to challenge the decision of the funeral home owner , Thomas Rost , who offered her a severance package that she turned down before firing her , in court .
Her lawyers argued that the Civil Rights Act of 1964 prohibits discrimination against transgender people , even if that legislation does n't specifically mention transgender individuals .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Supreme Court has ruled in the past against the use of sex stereotypes in employment actions and that , as such , an employer should n't be able to sack someone for not conforming to their notions of gender distinctions .
It was an argument that seemed ripe for the time , given recent legal decisions which have expanded rights for same-sex couples and others .
In 2015 , the Supreme Court legalized same-sex marriage .
In 2018 , a three-judge panel at the U.S. 6th Circuit Court of Appeals in Cincinnati @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of gender consideration must be “ irrelevant ” to employment decisions .
But Rost and his lawyers appealed that decision to the Supreme Court , arguing that the 6th Circuit went too far , defining gender as a personal disposition and not as a biological fact .
And they said it was the latter definition , not the former , that was held by Congress to be the case in 1964 when it passed the Civil Rights Act .
They also noted that Rost 's gender-based dress code would have applied equally to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ making it equitable in their view .
With two new justices – Neil Gorsuch and Brett Kavanaugh – on what is widely viewed as a more conservative court , Stephens ' chances of winning a landmark decision remain unclear .
The court heard her case on the same day as two other sexual orientation discrimination cases which involved the firing of gay individuals .
John Bursch , a Michigan lawyer who represented Rost before the Supreme Court , argued that to allow the decision to stand would be to open all sorts of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ intended to benefit women who are assigned that gender at birth , to men who made the transition to becoming women .
`` When you do that , there is no sex discrimination standard under ( the law ) anymore .
It 's been completely blown up , '' Bursch said .
David Cole , the legal director for the American Civil Liberties Union who argued Stephens ' case before the Supreme Court in October , said the court had already decided that sex stereotypes could n't be used in employment decisions and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was only natural .
While companies are allowed gender-based dress codes under the law , Cole said that Rost insisting Stephens dress as a man `` is saying I object to you because you fail to conform to this stereotype : The stereotype that if you are assigned a male sex at birth , you must live and identify for your entire life as a man . ''
`` That is a true generalization for most of us , but it is not true for 1.5 million transgender Americans , '' he added @

Transgender woman whose civil rights case is before Supreme Court dies in Michigan
Show Caption Hide Caption Aimee Stephens talks about her firing from Garden City funeral home Aimee Stephens alleges that a metro Detroit funeral home wrongfully fired her for transitioning from a man into a woman, calling the move discriminatory. ACLU, Detroit Free Press
DETROIT – Aimee Stephens, a transgender Michigan woman whose case questioning whether federal law protected transgender individuals from job discrimination became the first of its kind to be heard by the U.S. Supreme Court, died Tuesday. She was 59.
Stephens, a former funeral home employee who said she was fired in 2013 for being transgender, was still awaiting what could be a landmark decision by the court, which is expected by the end of next month. The American Civil Liberties Union, which helped present the case to the court, announced Stephens' death Tuesday afternoon.
“Aimee did not set out to be a hero and a trailblazer, but she is one, and our country owes her a debt of gratitude for her commitment to justice for all people and her dedication to our transgender community," said Chase Strangio, a member of Stephens’ legal team and an ACLU official.
Freedom for All Americans, an advocacy group for LBGTQ individuals based in Washington, D.C., noted that Stephens' was the first-ever transgender civil rights case to be heard by the court.
Aimee Stephens: Ex-funeral home worker’s case going to Supreme Court, raising question whether 1964 law covers gender identity
"In the face of an employer who fired her for being her true self, Aimee came forward to share her personal story in front of the court and millions of Americans," said Kasey Suffredini, the group's CEO and national campaign director. "In honor of Aimee Stephens’ life, it’s more important than ever that the court rule on the side of dignity, respect, and fairness for all LGBTQ Americans."
Her death is not expected to impact the court's deliberations on a decision, since the case is so far along and there are other cases in which the estate of a deceased party to a case has continued to pursue an outcome.
No cause for Stephen's death was given, though she suffered kidney failure in 2014 and had been on dialysis three times a week when the Free Press spoke to her in 2019.
The ACLU said her wife, Donna Stephens, was with Aimee when she died.
Stephens, who was a biologically assigned male at birth, confronted her boss at R.G. & G.R. Harris Funeral Home in Garden City in 2013, saying in a letter she wished to begin dressing as a woman at work after having done so outside of work for some time. The funeral home owner, a devout Christian who had a strict gender-based dress code, said it wouldn't work out and eventually fired her.
Having considered killing herself a year before that, she told the Free Press she had no regrets in sending the letter, saying her feeling that she needed to be true to herself was too strong. “It was either send the letter or not be here anymore," she said.
But she decided to challenge the decision of the funeral home owner, Thomas Rost, who offered her a severance package that she turned down before firing her, in court.
Her lawyers argued that the Civil Rights Act of 1964 prohibits discrimination against transgender people, even if that legislation doesn't specifically mention transgender individuals. They argued that under that law, the Supreme Court has ruled in the past against the use of sex stereotypes in employment actions and that, as such, an employer shouldn't be able to sack someone for not conforming to their notions of gender distinctions.
It was an argument that seemed ripe for the time, given recent legal decisions which have expanded rights for same-sex couples and others. In 2015, the Supreme Court legalized same-sex marriage.
In 2018, a three-judge panel at the U.S. 6th Circuit Court of Appeals in Cincinnati ruled for Stephens, saying any kind of gender consideration must be “irrelevant” to employment decisions.
But Rost and his lawyers appealed that decision to the Supreme Court, arguing that the 6th Circuit went too far, defining gender as a personal disposition and not as a biological fact. And they said it was the latter definition, not the former, that was held by Congress to be the case in 1964 when it passed the Civil Rights Act.
They also noted that Rost's gender-based dress code would have applied equally to a transgender man as a woman, making it equitable in their view.
With two new justices – Neil Gorsuch and Brett Kavanaugh – on what is widely viewed as a more conservative court, Stephens' chances of winning a landmark decision remain unclear. The court heard her case on the same day as two other sexual orientation discrimination cases which involved the firing of gay individuals.
John Bursch, a Michigan lawyer who represented Rost before the Supreme Court, argued that to allow the decision to stand would be to open all sorts of gender-based programs, including those which are intended to benefit women who are assigned that gender at birth, to men who made the transition to becoming women.
"When you do that, there is no sex discrimination standard under (the law) anymore. It's been completely blown up," Bursch said.
David Cole, the legal director for the American Civil Liberties Union who argued Stephens' case before the Supreme Court in October, said the court had already decided that sex stereotypes couldn't be used in employment decisions and that including transgender individuals in that protection was only natural.
While companies are allowed gender-based dress codes under the law, Cole said that Rost insisting Stephens dress as a man "is saying I object to you because you fail to conform to this stereotype: The stereotype that if you are assigned a male sex at birth, you must live and identify for your entire life as a man."
"That is a true generalization for most of us, but it is not true for 1.5 million transgender Americans," he added.
Follow Todd Spangler on Twitter: @tsspangler.


usatoday--2020-05-12--California holds special election during pandemic to fill Katie Hill's seat

WASHINGTON – Amid the coronavirus pandemic , a special election in California is underway Tuesday to fill the seat of former Rep. Katie Hill , who resigned last year after allegations she had an inappropriate sexual relationship with staffers .
Christy Smith , a Democratic state Assemblywoman , and Republican Mike Garcia , a former fighter jet pilot , are competing to represent California 's 25th Congressional District , which includes parts of Los Angeles and Ventura counties .
The winner of the race will serve the remainder of Hill 's term , which expires in January .
Smith and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to see who will be elected to serve a full term .
Hill , a Democrat , resigned from the office last fall amid allegations of inappropriate relationships with staffers in an ordeal that included leaked nude photos of her .
As with most things going on right now , the election is being impacted by the coronavirus pandemic .
California is currently under a stay-at-home order .
But Gov .
Gavin Newsom on March 20 lifted provisions of state law to allow country registrars to conduct an `` all-mail ballot '' elections @ @ @ @ @ @ @ senate race also happening Tuesday .
Newsom also ordered that ballots be mailed to every voter in the 25th congressional district .
More : Democrats ' $ 3 trillion coronavirus stimulus proposal includes more $ 1,200 checks , money for state and local governments '' Whereas hundreds of local governments across the state have also declared states of emergency , imposed or recommended social distancing , and taken other significant steps in response to COVID-19 , '' he wrote in an executive order , `` [ the special elections ] shall each be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' Tuesday 's special election will be almost all vote-by-mail with ballots sent to the district 's more than 400,000 registered voters , according to the Ventura County Star .
There are also several limited in-person options in Los Angeles and Ventura counties for those who are unregistered voters and others who ca n't or wo n't vote by mail .
Curbside voting will be options for the in-person voting locations .
The special election for the 25th congressional district is competitive , with the district being considered a toss-up by the Cook @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the district from Republican to Democrat .
Garcia is hoping to flip the district back to red and has gained traction in the past several weeks .
President Donald Trump has also endorsed Garcia .
`` Remember , get out and Vote for Mike Garcia in CA25 .
A really big deal for our Country ! ''
Trump wrote in a tweet Tuesday morning .
The president has tweeted numerous times about this race over the past several days .
Smith has also received endorsements from key Democrats , such as former President @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and House Speaker Nancy Pelosi , who is also from California .
“ Now , more than ever , we need pragmatic , experienced and effective leaders in Washington , '' Obama said in a statement , adding that Smith `` has proven herself as a leader in her community . ''

California holds special election during pandemic to fill Katie Hill's seat
Show Caption Hide Caption Calif. to offer Nov. mail in ballots to all voters California Gov. Gavin Newsom has issued an executive order for state counties to send out vote-by-mail ballots to all registered voters for the November 3 general election, to ensure people feel they have access to safe voting amid the pandemic. (May 8) AP
WASHINGTON – Amid the coronavirus pandemic, a special election in California is underway Tuesday to fill the seat of former Rep. Katie Hill, who resigned last year after allegations she had an inappropriate sexual relationship with staffers.
Christy Smith, a Democratic state Assemblywoman, and Republican Mike Garcia, a former fighter jet pilot, are competing to represent California's 25th Congressional District, which includes parts of Los Angeles and Ventura counties.
The winner of the race will serve the remainder of Hill's term, which expires in January. Smith and Garcia will also face off in November to see who will be elected to serve a full term. Hill, a Democrat, resigned from the office last fall amid allegations of inappropriate relationships with staffers in an ordeal that included leaked nude photos of her.
As with most things going on right now, the election is being impacted by the coronavirus pandemic.
California is currently under a stay-at-home order. But Gov. Gavin Newsom on March 20 lifted provisions of state law to allow country registrars to conduct an "all-mail ballot" elections for the special election and a state senate race also happening Tuesday. Newsom also ordered that ballots be mailed to every voter in the 25th congressional district.
More: Democrats' $3 trillion coronavirus stimulus proposal includes more $1,200 checks, money for state and local governments
"Whereas hundreds of local governments across the state have also declared states of emergency, imposed or recommended social distancing, and taken other significant steps in response to COVID-19," he wrote in an executive order, "[the special elections] shall each be held as an all-mail ballot election."
Tuesday's special election will be almost all vote-by-mail with ballots sent to the district's more than 400,000 registered voters, according to the Ventura County Star.
There are also several limited in-person options in Los Angeles and Ventura counties for those who are unregistered voters and others who can't or won't vote by mail. Curbside voting will be options for the in-person voting locations.
The special election for the 25th congressional district is competitive, with the district being considered a toss-up by the Cook Political Report. Hill in 2018 flipped the district from Republican to Democrat.
Garcia is hoping to flip the district back to red and has gained traction in the past several weeks. President Donald Trump has also endorsed Garcia.
US coronavirus map: Tracking the outbreak
"Remember, get out and Vote for Mike Garcia in CA25. A really big deal for our Country!" Trump wrote in a tweet Tuesday morning. The president has tweeted numerous times about this race over the past several days.
Remember, get out and Vote for Mike Garcia in CA25. A really big deal for our Country! — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) May 12, 2020
Smith has also received endorsements from key Democrats, such as former President Barack Obama, former Secretary Hillary Clinton and House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, who is also from California.
“Now, more than ever, we need pragmatic, experienced and effective leaders in Washington," Obama said in a statement, adding that Smith "has proven herself as a leader in her community."
Contributing: Tom Kisken, Ventura County Star


usatoday--2020-05-12--Donald Trump to visit Allentown, Pennsylvania factory as he pushes message on reopening

WASHINGTON – Promoting his campaign to reopen the economy – and facing health warnings in the process – President Donald Trump plans a visit Thursday to a medical supply business in the politically pivotal state of Pennsylvania .
`` Looking forward to being in Allentown , Pennsylvania , on Thursday .
I love the State , and for very good reason ! ''
Trump tweeted Tuesday .
Trump plans to use the trip to spotlight his argument that the economy can be reopened safely and life can soon return to normal , even as lawmakers and his own health advisers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a deadly new wave of the coronavirus .
The White House is instituting new safety procedures after two employees tested positive for the virus .
And Dr. Anthony Fauci , a key member of the White House coronavirus task force , warned during a Senate hearing Tuesday that there could be “ some suffering and death ” if states bypass guidelines for careful reopening .
Trump continues to promote the idea of reopening the economy quickly , and he has encouraged protesters who have demonstrated against lockdowns in their states – including Pennsylvania @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to his reelection bid .
As officials put together the Pennsylvania visit , Trump criticized the state 's Democratic governor , Tom Wolf , for not seeking to reopen the state 's economy fast enough .
In a tweet Monday , Trump said `` the great people of Pennsylvania want their freedom now , and they are fully aware of what that entails .
The Democrats are moving slowly , all over the USA , for political purposes . ''
At a news conference , Trump praised supporters in Pennsylvania who have demonstrated @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to go back , '' Trump said .
Wolf , like other governors , said reopening his state too quickly will trigger a surge in coronavirus cases and cost lives .
In apparent response to critics like Trump , Wolf tweeted Monday that `` the politicians who are encouraging us to quit the fight are acting in a most cowardly way . ''
Trump is pushing for reopening the economy amid criticism that he can not keep the White House itself safe .
Last week , two White House employees tested positive for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the press secretary to Vice President Mike Pence , both of whom came near Trump in recent days .
The White House has since adopted new safety procedures , including a requirement that all West Wing staff members wear masks ( though Trump himself is exempted from the mandate ) .
Trump downplayed the threat to the White House , telling reporters on Monday that he `` felt no vulnerability whatsoever . ''
' I felt no vulnerablity whatsoever ' : Trump downplays new White House virus cases as he pushes reopening New @ @ @ @ @ @ @ measures as coronavirus moves closer to Trump 's inner circle A week after visiting a mask-making plant in Phoenix , the president will tour the Owens and Minor Inc. medical equipment factory in Allentown , the White House said in a statement .
He will deliver remarks on replenishing the nation 's stockpile of medical personal protective equipment like masks , gloves , and surgical gowns , all of which are distributed by the Allentown company .
Trump and some of his aides were criticized for not wearing masks during his tour of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is another state that figures to be closely contested in the fall election contest with presumptive Democratic nominee Joe Biden .
Trump had hoped to visit Pennsylvania late last month , but the trip was scuttled over safety concerns .
Officials explored the idea of a Trump visit in late April to a Braskem America manufacturing plant in Marcus Hook , Pa .
Earlier this year , dozens of workers stayed in the plant for 28 straight days so they could remain virus-free while producing raw materials needed to make masks , gowns @ @ @ @ @ @ @ trip was never scheduled because the company expressed safety concerns , said an administration official speaking on condition of anonymity to discuss security concerns .
The new White House health protocols will be in effect when Trump visits the distribution center in Allentown , the official said .
Members of the presidential party are expected to wear masks or facial coverings , as prescribed in the new White House rules , though Trump himself probably wo n't wear one , the official said .
The president and his staff are also expected to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The Allentown trip also comes less than six months before the presidential election in which Pennsylvania figures to play a key role .
Four years ago , Trump became the first Republican presidential candidate since 1988 to carry Pennsylvania .
That win helped boost him to an Electoral College win over Hillary Clinton , and campaign aides regard Pennsylvania as an essential part of his strategy in 2020 .

Donald Trump to visit Allentown, Pennsylvania factory as he pushes message on reopening
Show Caption Hide Caption President Trump addresses not wearing mask at Honeywell plant Clarification: A previous headline unclearly attributed comments about Trump wearing a mask at a Honeywell manufacturing plant. Honeywell officials had not commented on the matter. Trump addressed criticism that he was not seen wearing a mask while touring the Honeywell manufacturing plant. USA TODAY, Wochit
WASHINGTON – Promoting his campaign to reopen the economy – and facing health warnings in the process – President Donald Trump plans a visit Thursday to a medical supply business in the politically pivotal state of Pennsylvania.
"Looking forward to being in Allentown, Pennsylvania, on Thursday. I love the State, and for very good reason!" Trump tweeted Tuesday.
Trump plans to use the trip to spotlight his argument that the economy can be reopened safely and life can soon return to normal, even as lawmakers and his own health advisers warn that moving too quickly could trigger a deadly new wave of the coronavirus.
The White House is instituting new safety procedures after two employees tested positive for the virus. And Dr. Anthony Fauci, a key member of the White House coronavirus task force, warned during a Senate hearing Tuesday that there could be “some suffering and death” if states bypass guidelines for careful reopening.
Trump continues to promote the idea of reopening the economy quickly, and he has encouraged protesters who have demonstrated against lockdowns in their states – including Pennsylvania, a state that is probably essential to his reelection bid.
As officials put together the Pennsylvania visit, Trump criticized the state's Democratic governor, Tom Wolf, for not seeking to reopen the state's economy fast enough.
In a tweet Monday, Trump said "the great people of Pennsylvania want their freedom now, and they are fully aware of what that entails. The Democrats are moving slowly, all over the USA, for political purposes."
At a news conference, Trump praised supporters in Pennsylvania who have demonstrated against Wolf.
"The people want to go back," Trump said.
Wolf, like other governors, said reopening his state too quickly will trigger a surge in coronavirus cases and cost lives.
In apparent response to critics like Trump, Wolf tweeted Monday that "the politicians who are encouraging us to quit the fight are acting in a most cowardly way."
Looking forward to being in Allentown, Pennsylvania, on Thursday. I love the State, and for very good reason! — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) May 12, 2020
Trump is pushing for reopening the economy amid criticism that he cannot keep the White House itself safe. Last week, two White House employees tested positive for the coronavirus, a Navy steward and the press secretary to Vice President Mike Pence, both of whom came near Trump in recent days.
The White House has since adopted new safety procedures, including a requirement that all West Wing staff members wear masks (though Trump himself is exempted from the mandate).
Trump downplayed the threat to the White House, telling reporters on Monday that he "felt no vulnerability whatsoever."
'I felt no vulnerablity whatsoever': Trump downplays new White House virus cases as he pushes reopening
New precautions: White House adopts new safety measures as coronavirus moves closer to Trump's inner circle
A week after visiting a mask-making plant in Phoenix, the president will tour the Owens and Minor Inc. medical equipment factory in Allentown, the White House said in a statement. He will deliver remarks on replenishing the nation's stockpile of medical personal protective equipment like masks, gloves, and surgical gowns, all of which are distributed by the Allentown company.
Trump and some of his aides were criticized for not wearing masks during his tour of a mask-making facility in Phoenix. Arizona is another state that figures to be closely contested in the fall election contest with presumptive Democratic nominee Joe Biden.
Trump had hoped to visit Pennsylvania late last month, but the trip was scuttled over safety concerns.
Officials explored the idea of a Trump visit in late April to a Braskem America manufacturing plant in Marcus Hook, Pa. Earlier this year, dozens of workers stayed in the plant for 28 straight days so they could remain virus-free while producing raw materials needed to make masks, gowns, and sanitary wipes.
The Trump trip was never scheduled because the company expressed safety concerns, said an administration official speaking on condition of anonymity to discuss security concerns.
The new White House health protocols will be in effect when Trump visits the distribution center in Allentown, the official said.
Members of the presidential party are expected to wear masks or facial coverings, as prescribed in the new White House rules, though Trump himself probably won't wear one, the official said. The president and his staff are also expected to engage in social distancing during the visit.
The Allentown trip also comes less than six months before the presidential election in which Pennsylvania figures to play a key role.
Four years ago, Trump became the first Republican presidential candidate since 1988 to carry Pennsylvania. That win helped boost him to an Electoral College win over Hillary Clinton, and campaign aides regard Pennsylvania as an essential part of his strategy in 2020.